Mark 8 - Defective

 

Mark 8– Defective

 

The disciples didn’t know what to do with the hungry crowd, yet they had seen Jesus feed the five thousand. They apparently “soon forgot His works; they did not wait for His counsel” (Psalm 106:13). Each work that He does should encourage you to trust Hm to help you solve the next problem. Keep a long memory of His mercies and a short one of your failures. Don’t have defective faith. While the disciples failed to respond with appropriate belief, the Gentiles received the full benefits of Jesus’ power.

 

The disciples did not perceive what He meant by the leaven. The blindness of the Pharisees does not surprise us, but why were His followers so blind? Like Israel of old, the disciples saw His acts but did not understand His ways (Psalms 103:7). Ask God to give you spiritual insight. Don’t have defective understanding. The disciples had yet to understand that the kingdom of God would not be driven by the “my tribe first” mentality of the Pharisees or the show of brute force like Herod but by meekness and humility.

 

This is the only healing miracle recorded that took place in stages. Bethsaida was under judgment (Matt. 11:21-24), so Jesus took the man out of there and told him not to go back. Be careful where you send people whose eyes have been opened to Jesus and His mercy.  Don’ have defective sight. Just as the blind man’s sight came in stages, so too the disciples’ spiritual sight would come in stages, especially their understanding of Jesus as the Son of God, the Messiah.

 

One minute Peter is inspired from heaven (Matt. 16:17); and the next minute, his tongue is ignited from hell; (James 3:6). Peter saw only shame in the Cross, but Jesus saw glory. Peter saw defeat, but Jesus saw great victory. Never be ashamed to be His disciple and bear your cross, for Jesus bore it first. Don’t have defective devotion. In essence, Peter called Jesus out to talk Him out of going to the cross. Peter’s reasoning was not simply mistaken, it was downright demonic.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better. If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary. J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible. Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

Mark 7 - Defilement Comes from Within

 

Mark 7 – Defilement Comes from Within

 

Unless we are very careful, religious rituals can create serious problems. They may be given as much authority as God’s Word and even replace God’s Word. They may give a false confidence that what you do on the outside will somehow change the inside. But the heart must be changed, and external rituals cannot do that. The heart can be purified only by faith (Acts 15:9).

 

Jesus healed both the centurion’s servant (Matt. 8:1-13) and this woman’s demonized daughter from a distance. Both were Gentiles, and the Gentiles were “as a distance” spiritually; but Jesus would erase that distance at the cross (Eph. 2:11-22). As you pray for those far from you, or far from the Lord, remember that He can send His Word and do mighty works (Ps. 107:20). God’s offer of salvation extends to the whole world, regardless of ethnicity or nationality.

 

The miracles of healing this deaf man and healing a blind man are recorded only by Mark. Both were in gentile territory, which would interest his Roman readers; both were performed away from the crowd; and both were performed despite difficulty. The Servant can work at a distance or when we bring people to Him, and He does not fail.

 

 Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better. If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary. J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible. Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

Mark 6 - Limiting Jesus

 

Mark 6 – Limiting Jesus

His neighbors were amazed at what Jesus said and did, but Jesus was amazed at their unbelief that would not let Him do more: “According to your faith let it be to you” (Matt. 9:29). He healed a few sick people in Nazareth but did prompt Him to limit His ministry. If we do not have faith to believe in God’s power, it will not be long before we will cease to see God’s power.  Ask God to strengthen your faith so that you can glorify Him (Rom. 4:20-21). Our Lord’s response to their unbelief was to send out His disciples to minister. Herod silenced one voice, but he could not silence the Word of God (Col. 4:2-4).

 

God’s servants become weary as they work (John 4:6) and must care for the body. Jesus instructed His disciples to come aside and rest awhile. But when you have a compassionate heart, you will not have an idle hand. Our Lord interrupted His vacation to meet the needs of the people. Despite His own weariness, Jesus ministered to the needy crowds because He saw them as sheep not having a shepherd. Jesus’ compassion to the multitudes is expressed in His staying to teach them.  He need not interrupt anything today, because caring for us is His constant ministry (Heb &:25).

 

After such a demanding time of ministry, Jesus had to go apart to pray. But once again, He was interrupted, this time by the plight of His disciples amid the sea. And it was the disciples who were amazed! Jesus intercedes for you and knows your situation. He will come to you, care for you, and lead you into peace. His presence brings His people peace in any storm (Isa. 41:10).

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

 

Mark 5 - The Servant Comes to Us.

 

Mark 5 – The Servant Comes to Us.

 

Jesus went through a storm to get to two demoniacs who needed his help. (Matt. 8:28). The demons begged not to be sent to the pit, the citizens begged Jesus to leave, and one healed man begged to go with Jesus. The citizens were more concerned with financial profit than with spiritual benefit. Satan and his forces are bent on destroying the good creation of God. If the demons had remained in the man they surely would have destroyed him.

 

All kinds of people came to the feet of Jesus. A well-known synagogue leader and an anonymous sick woman could find help there. Perhaps the woman’s faith was a bit superstitious, but the Lord still honored it. If you cannot grasp His hand, touch the hem of His garment. The first step of faith, no matter how weak will lead to greater blessings! You can come to the Servant. When Jesus heals, he makes the person well – complete or whole. The woman’s healing led her to salvation.

 

No situation is so desperate that Jesus cannot work. Disease, delays, and even death are under His control Jesus goes with you to the place of disappointment and sorrow and meets your needs. No matter how depressing your situation may appear. “Do not be afraid; only believe”. The Servant is working for you. He will go with you. Because of Jesus, death never has the last word.

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary. J Vernon McGee Thru the Bible

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

Mark 4 - Receiving God's Word

 

Mark 4- Receiving God’s Word

 

Even when we read the Bible, we should hear the voice of God speaking to our hearts. It must be personal. Never treat the Bible like any other book (I Thess. 2:13). Jesus warns us to take heed that we hear what we hear, and how we hear (Luke 8:18). The more of the Word we receive and share, the more God will give to us.

 

It is our job to sow the seed, we cannot make the seed germinate and produce a harvest. Even a busy farmer must sleep and let God work! However, when the harvest is ready, we must be alert and reap it, or the harvest may be lost (John 4:35-38).

 

Our faith in His Word is tested in the storms of life. If the disciples had really trusted His Word, they would not have panicked and accused Him of not caring. You can trust His Word, for it will never fail. Continue to seek answers and ask the Lord for understanding when a biblical teaching is unclear.

 

Some hearers are hardened like the wayside, so the seed of the word does not even make an impression in the soil before it is snatched away. Stony-ground soil are the hearers that take in the Word but their commitment to the gospel disappears when it meets resistance. The soil with thorns shows signs of growth, but worldly distractions choke the word that has been planted (I Tim. 6:9,10). Some people hear the word and put it into practice (James 1:22). Only this good ground produces the fruit of transformation. Where God’s word is wanted, He makes sure it is never wasted. (Isa 55:11).

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible, J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

 

 

 

 

Mark 3 - Resist, Assist, or Mistrust?

 

Mark 3 – Resist, Assist or Mistrust?

 

The religious leaders were more concerned about protecting their tradition than helping a man with a handicapping condition. Despite all that Jesus did and said, they hardened their hearts and resisted His ministry, even to the extent of accusing Him of being in league with satan. In the end, they cooperated with the evil one!

 

The crowds were so large that Jesus had to empower His disciples to help Him in ministry. Later, He sent them out to preach, to heal various sicknesses, and to cast out demons as His Ambassadors. By virtue of their intimate connection to Him, all of Jesus’ followers can represent Him to a lost and hurting world (John 15:1-8). There is a job for everyone, even if only giving Him a little boat to use. If you want to assist Him, remember that the most important thing is being with Him. As He said, “Without Me, you can do nothing.”  (Jon 15:5).

 

Mary bore other children after the birth of Jesus, but they did not believe in Him. (John 7:1-5). Even His mother seemed to have doubts about her “popular” Son who was arousing the anger of the leaders. But Jesus was doing the will of God, and so should we. Although He honored His mother (John19:26,27) as the law commanded, Jesus did not allow even His own flesh and blood to prevent Him from doing the will of God (Eph. 6:6).

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible.

 

Mark 2 - Jesus' Ministries.

 

Mark 2 - Jesus’ Ministries

 

Imagine a servant having much authority! The healing of the body is a great miracle, but it may not last. The forgiveness of sin is God’s greatest miracle, for it lasts forever and accomplishes the greatest good. The Servant forgives us and pays the price for the miracle! The forgiveness of sins is a divine act in the spiritual realm that cannot be observed. But healing a paralytic so that he walked away carrying his bed was tangible. No one can heal paralysis with a word, just as no one can forgive sin with a word, unless that person is God or is acting in His authority.

 

He fellowships with ‘sinners” because they are sick, and He is the only Physician that can heal them. They are hungry and lonely, and He is the Bridegroom who asks them to His wedding feast. Their lives are in tatters, and He wants to give them a new robe of righteousness. Others may be able to patch up life, but He alone can give new life. Sinners in that day were considered Jews who did not keep the law. Not only did Jesus eat with them, but Mark suggests He was the host in the house of Levi (Matthew).

 

He frees us from bondage. He is the Lord of the Sabbath, the Giver of the rest (Matt. 11:28-30). Man’s religious traditions can be a terrible yoke of bondage but when you follow the Lord, you experience freedom and rest.  Jesus announced that there was no need to fast while He was with them. The pharisees fasted ritually. Either they didn’t understand, or they would not accept that many of their established rituals and traditions could no longer coexist with His new way of life.

 

God created and established the Sabbath as a benefit and a blessing to His people (Deut. 5:14). The Pharisees, however, had turned his good gift into a weighty obligation. As the Creator of the Sabbath, Jesus had the sovereign authority to determine how it should best be practiced.

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans for You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. Through the Bible by J. Vernon McGee.

 

Mark 1 - Jesus Comes as a Servant

 

Mark 1– Jesus Comes as a Servant

 

Even a servant must have credentials, and our Lord has the very best. His coming was prophesied by Isaiah (40:43) and Malachi (3:1) and announced by John the Baptist. The Father and the Holy Spirit commended Him, and satan could not defeat Him. He is a servant you can trust. The coming of Jesus ended the separation between God and humanity. Jesus triumphed over the enemy and we can too when we are tempted (I Cor.10:13).

 

But what can He do? What is His work?  He can guide your life and make it a success. He can overcome satan and sickness and use you to bring the message of salvation to a lost and needy world. You can be a servant of the Servant and share in His wonderful work. Jesus calls all believers to join Him in rescuiing perishing men and women from the sea of sin and death (2 Cor. 5:20).

 

Where did the Servant get His power? He depended on the Holy Spirit and prayer. He did not allow the demands of the work to rob Him of the time He needed to renew His strength. If the Holy Son of God needed to pray, how much more do we need to pray! In the Lord’s service, you cannot “run on empty” Isa. 40:28-31. Christ’s followers need a time to listen for the Father’s will for their lives (matt. 26:39,44).

 

 

 Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better. If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. J.Vernon McGee Thru the Bible. Nelson’s Quick Reference. Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

Matthew 28 - Jesus Overcomes His Enemies

 

Matthew 28 – Jesus Overcomes His Enemies

 

In His death and resurrection, our Lord defeated the world (John 16:33), the flesh (rom. 6:1-7), the devil (John 12:31), and death itself (I Cor. 15:50-58). We need not be afraid of life or death, time, or eternity (Rev. 1:17-18).

 

Because His followers forgot His resurrection promise, they were sorrowing instead of rejoicing. Even after Jesus’ followers saw Him alive and heard Him speak, some of them still doubted. The Lord always keeps His promises, no matter how dark the day may be.

 

When the women ran to share the message, they met the Lord; you always meet Him in the path of obedience. The Shepherd goes before the sheep and prepares the way for them (John 10:4). You have a living and victorious Savior who has everything under control. Trust Him!

 

He has all authority; He commands us to take the gospel to all nations; and He promises to be with us always. Christians are to go.. and make disciples, baptizing them and teaching them to obey. And they are to accomplish all of this by His power and for His sake, through His Spirit. “I am with you always” What more assurance could we want? We are His ambassadors (2 Cor. 5:20) and should be faithful to Him in all things.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah, J. Vernon McGhee Through the Bible.

 

Matthew 27 - Jesus is Our Example

 

Matthew 27 – Jesus is Our Example

 

Jesus is the example to follow when you suffer unjustly (I Peter 2:18-23).

 

He did not reply when accused. In this, He fulfilled Isaiah 53:7. There is a time to speak and a time to be silent (Eccl. 3:7), and we must exercise discernment. One thing is sure: no matter what He said, they would not have believed Him.

 

He did not retaliate when abused. He had the power to destroy those who mocked Him; legions of angels would have delivered Him. But it was the Father’s will that He suffer as He did, and Jesus was obedient to His Father’s will.

 

He did not accept the cup. The drink would have helped deaden the pain, but Jesus refused it. He drank the cup of suffering instead.

 

He did not come down from the cross. Had He come down from the cross, the people still would not have believed in Him. And if He saved Himself, He could not save others (John 12:23-28). First the suffering, then the glory; first the cross, then the crown. Only His sacrifice on the cross would enable Him to save us eternally.

 

Not only would judgment fall on Israel for rejecting her Messiah, but an even greater judgment fell on her Messiah when Jesus became the divine sacrifice for sin (2 Cor. 5:21).

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah

 

Matthew 26 - Opportunities

 

Matthew 26 – Opportunities

 

Life presents us with many opportunities; how we respond to them depends on what we love and what we look for in life.

 

The Jewish leaders looked for opportunity to destroy Jesus, while at the same time Jesus was anticipating the opportunity to obey His Father and bring Him glory.

 

Mary used the opportunity she had for expressing her devotion to Christ, but Judas used that same opportunity to criticize her. Nothing given in love to Jesus is ever wasted. Judas was the one who ended up wasting his life!

 

Jesus eagerly anticipated the opportunity to be with His disciples, even though He knew one would betray Him, one would deny Him, and all would forsake Him. He sought to help them and prepare them for the trial before them.

 

Peter missed his opportunities to become strong and be a victor. He boasted when he should have listened, slept when he should have prayed, fought when he should have surrendered, and followed when he should have fled for safety. But when the opportunity came for him to repent, he wept.

 

No matter what others did, Jesus was in complete command and knew how to make the most of every opportunity “Not as I will, but as you will” is the secret. God will give you many opportunities today. Use them wisely!

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible

J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible.

Matthew 25 - Time of Separation

 

Matthew 25 – Time of Separation

 

When Jesus Christ returns, it will be a time of separation: the wise will be separated from the foolish, the faithful servants from the unfaithful, the blessed from the cursed. The wise virgins had oil and were prepared to meet the bridegroom. Many people profess to be Christians but do not have the Holy Spirit (Rom. 8:9) and are not born again. They may mingle with the saved, but they are not really one of them; and they will not enter the marriage feast. Believers cannot impart the Spirit to unbelievers – each person must receive salvation for themselves before it is too late.

 

His coming also means evaluation. As we wait for the Lord to return, we must invest our lives and earn dividends for His glory. Christ gives us opportunities that match our abilities, and the one-talent servant is just as important as the five-talent servant. The key is faithfulness (I Cor. 4:2), for God measures us against ourselves and not against the other servants. Believers must diligently take everything God has given and invest it for His glory as they await Christ’s return.

 

When Christ returns, it will be a time of commendation. We will be surprised to learn about ministries that we performed that we thought were insignificant but that He will reward. This parable is not teaching salvation by good works. Christ’s sheep know that they are sheep (John 10:14,27-30), but they do not always realize what their service means to Christ. We will experience some surprises in that day! Our ministries here on earth are not the root, but the fruit of our salvation (James 2:14-17).

 

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary. Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. J. Vernon McGee Through The Bible

Matthew 24 - Do Not Be....

 

Matthew 24- Do Not Be

 

When you listen to the news and see the tension and troubles in today’s world, keep in mind the warnings that the Lord gave.

 

Deceived. People will make grandiose claims and promises and will deceive many. You have the Word of God to enlighten you (Isa 8:20) and the Holy Spirit to teach you (John 16:13-15), so you should not go astray (I John 2:18-29).

 

Discouraged. Political and natural disturbances have always been a part of world history, so do not allow them to discourage you. They are the “beginning of sorrows” (birth pangs). The world’s troubles are pregnant with possibilities! God is still on His throne!

 

Defeated. This has to do with faithfulness under testing until the Lord returns. Do not let the lawlessness around you rob you of your fervor. A lost world around you need to hear the gospel, so get busy!

 

Doubtful. Religious leaders will come and go, stand and fall; but the Word will not change. Believe it, obey it, and hold to it – no matter what others may say or do. Your Bible is God’s light in this dark world (2 Pet. 1:19-21).

 

Distracted. We “watch” when we stay alert and remind ourselves that our Lord may come at any time. When in your heart you delay His coming, you start to lose your effectiveness and witness. Keep watching and working!

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible

 

Matthew 23:23ff - The Olivet Discourse

 

Matthew 23:23ff – The Olivet Discourse

 

Our Lord’s words about the desolation of the temple prompted the disciples to ask Him about the future of the city, the temple, and the nation. The theme is the tribulation (“day of the Lord”) that will come upon the world in the last days. Jesus explained the events of the first half of the tribulation and the last half; and then He announced His return to earth after the Tribulation. On that day, people will quote the words of Psalm 118:26 with great joy at the fulfillment of everything foretold. But until then, Jerusalem and the Jewish nation (Lam. 3:32,33) have a dark future, because the city and Israel’s leaders were not willing to embrace God’s plan (Luke 7:30).

 

The signs of His coming to the earth is directed primarily to Israel, telling the people to watch and be ready. But these words have a message for the church today, because “coming events cast their shadows before” We are looking for the Savior and not for signs (Phil 3:20), because He can come at any time, but as we see these things developing in our world, we are encouraged to expect Him soon.

 

When He comes, He will reckon with His servants and reward those who have been faithful; it behooves us to be ready.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah, J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

 

Matthew 23 - Woe to the Scribes and Pharisees

 

Matthew 23 - Woe to the Scribes and Pharisees

 

The Word of God has authority even if the people who teach it lack integrity.  Our Lord’s standard is that we both do and teach His truth. (I Thess. 2:10-12). Those who practice hypocrisy erode their character and do untold damage to others. The tragedy is that hypocrisy blinds people so that they cannot see the Lord, themselves, or other people. Jesus warned the disciples that they should heed the Law of Moses, but not the latter law that the rabbi’s added. He also told them not to mimic the actions of these teachers.

 

The god the of Pharisees is not the God of the Bible. He is a law giver who pays back those who pay him. He is not “the God of all grace: (I Peter 5:10) or the loving Father who care for His children (Psalm 103:1-14). The god of the Pharisees is a hypocrite.

 

The Pharisees were blind to themselves. They were right, and everybody else was wrong. Because they majored on the externals, they never saw the rottenness in their hearts. Because they majored in minor details, they ignored the great principles of the Word. They were not willing in the least to help struggling people grow spiritually.

 

Hypocrites never see the damage done to others: closing doors of blessing; defiling those who touch them; giving people a wrong sense of values. No wonder Jesus wept! These “woes” were born of anguish, not anger; and perhaps He is weeping over you and me.

 

Unlike the Pharisees, Christ’s followers must take care to cultivate true humility. They should not be prideful and take on titles that exalt themselves rather than God’s truth.

 

The true teacher of Israel is none other than the Messiah Himself, Jesus Christ. Everything up to this moment should have convinced the multitudes of that fact.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible, J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

 

Matthew 22 - The Wedding Feast

 

Matthew 22 – The Wedding Feast

 

The rejected Son is resurrected and reigns in glory. He is the Bridegroom who wants everybody to come to His feast. Israel’s rejection of the invitation led to the destruction of Jerusalem. But the invitation is still open today. Just be sure not to wear your self-righteousness (Isa. 64:6); let Him provide the garment of His righteousness (Isa 61:10; 2 Cor. 5:21). This is both an honor and a command. To participate in the great feast of God, one must not only be invited, but also put on the king’s wedding clothes – the righteousness of Christ, accepted by grace through faith. Those without such a garment, although called, reveal that they are not chosen (Rom 3:21-31; 4:22-25).

 

His enemies questioned Jesus, hoping to get Him in trouble with Rome. After Passover, they could have Him arrested and tried. But how can mortal man question God and hope to win (Job 38:1-3)?

 

Jesus asked the key question: “Who is your Lord?” If Jesus Christ is your Lord, the other questions pose no problem. You will be a good citizen; you will not worry about the hereafter; and you will love God and your neighbor. Believers are responsible to respect and obey governments as well as God. All governments are in power by the authority of God and should be obeyed unless their edicts contradict the Word of God. (Acts 4:18-29; 5:29).

 

People who like to argue usually lack humility and need to submit to Christ (Phil. 2:1-11). Although it is good to ponder the great questions of life, it is also good to admit our ignorance and to worship Christ “in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” Col. 2:3.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible

J. Vernon McGee Thru the Bible

 

Matthew 21 - The Triumphal Entry

 

Matthew 21 – The Triumphal Entry

 

The people were blind to their Scriptures (Zech.9:9). They praised Him with Psalm 118:26 but overlooked verses 22-23, which Jesus quoted later. Matthew said the city was moved, they shouted words meant only for the Messiah. Beware knowing the Bible but not knowing the Lod when He is at work in your life.

 

Jesus cleansed the temple and cursed the fig tree, two “unusual acts” for Him who came not to judge but to save (Isa. 28:21). Like the temple, Israel was corrupt within; and like the fig tree, it was fruitless without. A church can become a “den of thieves” if that is where we go to cover up our sins (Isa. 56:7). A person whose life is “nothing but leaves” is in danger of judgment, for Christ seeks fruit (Matt. 7:15-20).

 

Jesus had authority because He is the Son of God! The vineyard is Israel (Isa. 5) whose leaders did not respect the Son when He came. The nation rejected the Father when they refused the witness of John, and now they were about to reject the Son. The religious leaders should have recognized Jesus as the Messiah first, for they had awaited Him ad pointed others to Him. Yet they stubbornly refused to believe Jesus was the Anointed One.

 

The Jewish leaders pronounced their own sentence. Jesus quoted Psalm 118:22-23 to prove that their sins would not hinder His victory (Isa. 8:14-15). If only they had become like children and praised the Lord instead of fighting Him Matt. 21:15-16).

 

God loves for His children to accomplish great things through prayer, but only when it is within His purpose (Mark 11:24). An obedience that brings a person into intimate, personal relationship with Christ is one that consistently performs what it professes.

 

When the religious leaders understood they were the villains in Christ’ parable, they became furious and sought to lay hands on Him.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah, J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

 

Matthew 20 - Workers in the Vineyard.

 

Matthew 20 – Workers in the Vineyard.

 

The parable is not about salvation, for we cannot work for salvation; nor is it about rewards, for we do not all receive the same reward. The story concerns the selfish attitude in Peter’s question. The key to the parable is that the first workers hired demanded a contract and insisted on knowing how much they would get. The other workers trusted the landowner. If you ask God for a contract, you will only rob yourself, for He is generous with His workers. Be faithful to do your job and avoid watching the other workers, and He will deal with you generously. The workers hired first represent Israel, the recipients of God’s promises (Rom. 3:1,2). Those hired last, represent the Gentiles, who were offered the same salvation available to the Jews through faith in Christ (Eph. 2:13-15).

 

Salome remembered His promise and claimed it for her two sons, James and John. But she forgot what Jesus had just said about the cross. She should have known that the only way to glory is through suffering (I Pet. 5:10). You do not pray for a throne; you pay for it. Beware selfish prayers: the Lord may answer them. James was the first apostle to be martyred (Acts 12:1-2), and John experienced a great trial as a Roman prisoner (Rev. 1:9). They were the brothers that were named “Sons of thunder”.

 

Jesus said, “true leaders go out of their way to serve others (Luke 22:25-27). Jesus sought to serve (John 13:14). He humbled Himself to the very limit by willingly handing over His life as a sacrifice for the sins of the world (Phil. 2:5-8).

 

They knew what they wanted, and they trusted Him for it. Do you know what you want when you come to Him in prayer? Do you persist even if others try to discourage you? What a promise we have in Hebrews 4:16!

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

 

Matthew 19 -Marriage and Family

 

Matthew 19 – Marriage and Family

 

Some practices are lawful but not biblical, so follow the principles given in Scripture. God’s original plan was one man for one woman for all of life (Gen. 2:18-25), but He made a concession for Israel and permitted divorce (Deut. 24:1-4). Divorce is not given as the solution to the problem. It takes a change of heart for two people to make a new beginning, and only Jesus can change hearts. Before you run away, run to God, and seek His help.

 

Jesus wanted the Pharisees to see that all divorce grieves God’s heart and reflects the underlying sin that comes when human hearts grow hard (Mal. 2:16). The apostles concluded that it is better not to marry than to risk a bad marriage. Jesus recommended that if people can remain single for the purpose of expanding God’s kingdom, then they should consider the celibate life. (I Cor. 7).

 

Jesus loved children. They were brought to him because they were born in sin and needed to be saved and because of His compassion. Children want to come to Jesus, but too often adults get in the way. The best parents make it easy for their children to come to Christ, love Him and receive His blessing. It is the greatest joy outside of their own salvation to lead their children to the Savior.

 

The wealthy young man had much in his favor, but he thought too highly of himself and was not honest before God. Money stood between him and salvation, and he would not repent and renounce his false god. You never lose when you give everything to Jesus. He blessed you in this life and the life to come. The disciples also believed that wealth indicated God’s blessings. Jesus answered that salvation is possible, but God’s blessings cannot be earned; it is a gift from God (Luke 18:27). Those who put their faith in earthly riches will be stripped of them in eternity and have less than the poorest beggars today. The way to receive rewards in heaven is to serve Him humbly.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible

Matthew 18 -Forgiveness

 

Matthew 18 – Forgiveness

 

A child totally depends on others and must live by faith. An unspoiled child accepts his position in life, enjoys it, and does not try to act like someone older (Ps. 131).

 

The way we treat children (including those who are “children in the faith”) indicates how much humility we practice. Do we receive them or despise them? Do we imitate them or cause them to stumble by our bad example? It was a sheep, not a lamb, that went astray!

 

“Speaking the truth in love” (Eph. 4:15) is the secret of maintaining Christian fellowship. The longer we resist, the more people we involve in the problem (Matt. 5:21-26). Humility and honesty must work together in producing harmony.

 

Peter wanted a rule to obey, which shows he was not in the spirit of what Jesus taught (Rom 12:8-10). The parable is not about salvation but about forgiveness among God’s people. We are to forgive others because God has forgiven us (Eph. 4:32), and He has forgiven us at great cost to Himself!  It is possible to receive forgiveness but not truly experience forgiveness in our hearts; therefore, we have a hard time-sharing forgiveness with others.

 

When you have an unforgiving spirit, you put yourself in prison spiritually and emotionally; you pay dearly for the luxury of carrying a grudge. Is it worth it?

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah

Matthew 17, Listen, Trust and Obey

 

Matthew 17 – Listen, Trust, and Obey

 

Listen. This event was a picture of the coming kingdom and a proof that Jesus

Christ is the son of the living God. The Law (Moses), which represents those who died in Christ, and the prophets (Elijah), which represents those who will be raptured someday converge in Him (Heb. 1:1-2). But the thing Peter remembered most was the emphasis on the unchanging word of God (2 Pet. 1:16-21. The memory of visions will fade, but the Word endures forever. Hear Him!

 

Trust. Jesus gave the disciples power to cast out demons, but their unbelief and lack of prayer robbed them of the power they needed. We cannot stay on the mountain of glory; there are needs to be met in the valley. Nothing is impossible with God. The ministry of the disciples would always require faith and prayerful reliance on God.

 

Obey.  Tax was an annual assessment of the Jewish men for the support of the temple (Exodus 30:11-16). Jesus affirmed His servanthood by submitting to their demands. “Lest we offend them” is a good principle when you lay aside your rights but be careful not to set aside God’s truth. Christians should support those in authority. (rom. 13:1-7).

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible, J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

Matthew 16- Misunderstandings

 

Matthew 16 – Misunderstandings

 

People believe the weather report but not God’s Word! They fail to see what God is doing in His world. Keep your eyes open and ask God for wisdom to understand His plan. The Pharisees and Sadducees chose not to believe, despite all the miracles that proved Jesus was the promised Messiah.

 

Jesus compared false doctrine to yeast. It appears small and insignificant, but it grows secretly and soon permeates everything (Gal. 5:9). The only remedy is to remove it (I Cor. 5:6-7). God reveals truth to those who honestly seek Him, but has no use for spiritual frauds.

 

The crowd is confused about Jesus; do not follow it. Instead, let the Father reveal the Savior to you, and confess Him before others. He is the Son of God. Who do you think Jesus is? Peter understood that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of the living God.

 

In his misguided attempt to keep Jesus from suffering and dying, Peter the stone became Peter the stumbling block. Confessing Christ must lead to following Christ. The world encourages you to pamper yourself, but the Lord calls you to deny yourself. The only way to live is to die to self and follow Christ by faith.

 

When believers focus on their own agendas or desires rather than the things of God (Mark 8:33), they can expect the Lord to discipline or rebuke them.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

Matthew 15 -What Did the Disciples Expect?

 

Matthew 15 – What Did the Disciples Expect?

 

Jesus rejected the man-made traditions of the scribes and Pharisees because they focused on the outside and ignored the inner person. These men were plants that God did not plant and blind guides who were leading people astray. “Let them alone!” was our Lord’s counsel. The Word of God alone carries God’s full authority and supersedes all other forms of authority. Even the disciples had a hard time understanding the message that the heart makes a person clean or unclean (Rom. 14:14,17).

 

Again, the disciples were wrong. Jesus seemed to ignore the woman, but He wanted only to increase her faith. His delays are not His denials. Jesus was ministering in gentile territory, and the people “glorified the God of Israel.” The Jews, whom Jesus was first sent rejected Him, while the Gentiles received and worshipped Him.

 

The disciples had already forgotten the miracle of feeding the five thousand! When you are faced with a crisis, take time to review His past mercies; remind yourself that He does not change. The first feeding was with the Jews. This feeding of the 4,000 was among the Gentiles. Jesus blessed them with the same sort of miracle, proclaiming that His worldwide kingdom had in fact begun.

 

Try to respond to people today the way Jesus responded. Ask Him for discernment.

 

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible and J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

Matthew 14:22ff - Jesus Walks on the Sea

 

Matthew 14:22ff – Jesus Walks on the Sea

 

The disciples had embarked on a journey of approximately five miles, but after three miles or so (John 6:19), the wind started to blow. Every time their boat inched forward, the wind was contrary, blowing them backwards (Mark 6:48).

 

Jesus had gone to the mountain nearby to pray from early evening to early morning. Why did Jesus allow his disciples to struggle for such a long period of time? If He had rescued them immediately, the disciples might forget His intervention or perhaps assume that, given enough time, they could have saved themselves. The Lord sometimes waits until His followers have exhausted their resources before He steps in.

 

The disciples were afraid when they saw someone walking across the surface of the water not only because they had suspected a ghost. Mark says it was also because their hearts were hard (Mark 6:52). Even though they had just witnessed the miraculous feeding of the multitude, they failed to apply that experience of Jesus’ power to this situation.

 

Peter was not acting foolishly, and this was not a daring stunt; it was obedience. When Jesus beckoned him to come, Peter willingly went. He had enough faith to get out of the boat and walk toward Jesus, something no prophet had ever done.

 

What people focus on becomes magnified. Especially in fearful circumstances. Peter decided to leave the apparent safety of the boat an rely totally on Jesus, until the wind caught Peter’s attention. Whenever believers divert their eyes from Jesus during a storm, their circumstances assume prominence, and they, like Peter, lose heart and begin to sink. The difference between fear and faith is focus.

 

Peter did not fail that day; the failures were the other disciples who stayed in the boat where they thought they were safe. The failed to experience the joy of walking on water and the hand of Jesus reaching out to them in their time of need. It is tempting to look down on sinking Peter for his small faith, but at leas he was willing to step out of the boat.

 

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

Matthew 14 - Tell it to Jesus!

 

Matthew 14 – Tell it to Jesus!

 

Herod ruled Galilee and had John the Baptist beheaded. Herod’s guilty conscience and his superstitious beliefs made him fear that John had come back in the form of Jesus (Luke9:7-9). Terrible guilt in the human mind often gives birth to wild fantasies.

 

The disciples of John the Baptist were stunned, so they shared their grief with Jesus. Life will bring its disappointments, and you must learn to handle them. Jesus will help you. (Psalm 55:22; I Peter 5:7).

 

The twelve said “send them away!” but Jesus said, “Bring what you have to me!” Give Him your all, and He will use it to meet the need. He can do the impossible with whatever is wholly given to Him. You can even bring to Him people who need His touch.

 

Some storms come because of our disobedience, but this one came because they obeyed Jesus. Peter did walk on the water; but when distracted by dangers around him, he took his eyes off Jesus. We look to Jesus by faith when we trust His word (Heb. 12:1-3). Beware of distractions.

 

Jesus had just lost his cousin and the Jewish leaders were plotting against Him, and He knew what lay ahead in Jerusalem, yet moved with compassion, He stopped to meet the needs of the crowd, healing the sick.

 

Jesus told the disciples to give them something to eat. God often gives His children tasks that they cannot complete with their own strength. With 12 baskets of loaves and fishes left over He may have been signaling that this feast was Israel’s – a basket for every tribe.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible.

Matthew 13:44ff

 

Matthew 13:44-58 – The Pearl of Great Price

 

“Whoever finds the pearl of great price, God’s kingdom, will happily give up everything to possess it.

 

Jesus tells of a dragnet being pulled into a boat with good fish that looked much like bad fish. Because He speaks these parables from a boat on the water, He may be saying that the parables themselves are like the dragnet, distinguishing those who listen from those who do not. God knows the difference, and one day the truth will be revealed (I Tim. 5:24).

 

Despite what His disciples said, they did not truly understand all of Jesus’ teaching. No doubt they understood more than the multitudes, but even they had a limited understanding of Jesus’ words.

 

Jesus targets His own disciples with the mystery of the last parable. Like a householder who values the new things along with the old, His disciples must understand the new things learned from Him considering the Old Testament scriptures.

 

When Jesus returned to His hometown of Nazareth, He found a population unwilling to recognize Him as the Messiah. They acknowledged His remarkable teachings and His many miracles but felt offended by Him because they did not see how a hometown boy could have possibly risen so high (Mark 6:3; Luke 4:24, John 4:44). In the Gospels Jesus is the only person said to scandalize others.

 

Jesus’ power was not diminished by the people’s unbelief; He did not do many mighty works in Nazareth because they were not coming for His miracles. It is possible that He wanted to limit the amount of what could be called “the high profile attention” to avoid creating greater public skepticism and greater opposition from the Pharisees and teachers (Mark6:5).

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. Nelson’s Quick Reference Study Bible, J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible.