Matthew – Be Still…

Matthew 18:20 – When Jesus is Present

“For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them.” (Matthew 18:20)

Have you ever left an empty chair on purpose during a group meeting or gathering? Sometimes having the visual reminder that Jesus is here with us can be helpful. There are plenty of other times that I picture Jesus by my side, whether there’s an empty chair or not. It’s comforting and empowering.

Context (Matthew 18:15-20): This verse falls amidst an interesting discussion about what to do when you have a problem with another believer. I get the impression that Jesus intends for us to try and handle our differences face-to-face. If that doesn’t work, take witnesses along to help mediate, with the final audience being the church, should the problem not resolve. In this situation, then, Jesus assures us with this verse that he will be part of the reconciliation process. Continue reading “Matthew 18:20 – When Jesus is Present”

Matthew 5:16 – Shine Your Light & Glorify God

“In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” (Matthew 5:16)

Making smart choices and doing good in this world has its place. This verse reminds us of that purpose. It’s not to bring attention to ourselves and take credit but to give glory to God. We’ve all seen athletes after winning a close game say to reporters, ” It’s all God” or “To God be the glory!”

Context Matthew 5:13-16: Jesus’ famous Sermon on the Mount starts in chapter 5 of Matthew’s gospel and covers a lot of ground. But this verse is from a smaller section in that sermon teaching about salt and light. Jesus wanted the people to know that as followers we are the salt and light of the world. It’s up to us to spice things up and point to the Father with our actions. Continue reading “Matthew 5:16 – Shine Your Light & Glorify God”

Matthew 28:19-20 – Make Disciples

“Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20)

Immediately after the resurrection, Jesus’ followers were still unsure of what their lives would look like without Jesus in it. But Jesus’ words called them into their mission, and we are called to the same assignment. These verses are known as the “Great Commission” and set us up for our kingdom work.

Context (Matthew 28): Matthew’s account of the resurrection flows into a cover-up attempt by the chief priests and elders and concludes with what’s known as the “Great Commission.” We know from the other gospels that Jesus appeared to his followers a few times before ascending to heaven. During one of these visits, Jesus spoke these words, giving his disciples the job he expected them to do. Can you imagine receiving these marching orders directly from Jesus? Continue reading “Matthew 28:19-20 – Make Disciples”

Matthew 28:1-4 – Into the Light

“Early on Sunday morning, as the new day was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went out to visit the tomb. Suddenly there was a great earthquake! For an angel of the Lord came down from heaven, rolled aside the stone, and sat on it.His face shone like lightning, and his clothing was as white as snow. The guards shook with fear when they saw him, and they fell into a dead faint.” (Matthew 28:1-4)

Happy Easter! We can celebrate Easter every day because we live in a world that knows a resurrected Savior. Getting to know Jesus is the best way we can spend our time in this life. Not knowing Jesus is only half living, and sadly, too many people don’t realize that. So Happy Resurrection Day, as we say in Mexico! Jesus lives! Hallelujah.

Context (Matthew 28:1-10): This is Matthew’s account of what happened when Jesus rose from the dead. Matthew puts the two Mary’s at the tomb. They are the messengers who tell the other disciples that Jesus is alive. Not only do they encounter an angel, but they receive a message from Jesus himself. Can you even imagine what these women must have been thinking or feeling? It might be a joyous disbelief, yet complete awe, reverence, and peace. Let yourself feel that exuberance as you reread the text. Continue reading “Matthew 28:1-4 – Into the Light”

Matthew 4:19 – Gone Fishing!

Jesus called out to them, “Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!” (Matthew 4:19)

Can you imagine being on the shore that day when Jesus said these words? Following Jesus seems like the right thing to do for us today, but what about back then? Since we know how the story plays out, we know Jesus had twelve disciples who all listened and obeyed the request to follow Jesus. Now it’s our turn.

Context: This verse is found in Matthew’s gospel just as Jesus’ ministry is beginning. It was in this moment that Jesus chose his first disciples. Simon and Andrew, his brother, were fishermen, so this invitation would have given them reason to be curious. Up to this point, fish had been their livelihood. How in the world would they fish for people, they must have wondered. Continue reading “Matthew 4:19 – Gone Fishing!”