Matthew – Be Still…

Matthew 6:33 – The Kingdom of God

^“Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.” (Matthew 6:33)

Every time I read this verse, the old worship song composed by Karen Lafferty, “Seek Ye First,” plays in my head. Join me in listening here to a recording by Maranatha! Music. We need an arsenal of Bible verses at our disposal for those times when worry creeps in to dampen our joy. This verse is one of those places we can escape.

Context (Matthew 6:24-34): This text comes from Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount when Jesus shared so much wisdom we can only stand amazed. Here, Jesus talks about worry, knowing that people tend to obsess when things are unknown. Our memory verse is the solution we can cling to when those worries crowd our heads and hearts. Continue reading “Matthew 6:33 – The Kingdom of God”

Matthew 19:26 – What’s Possible?

^“Jesus looked at them intently and said, ‘Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But with God everything is possible.’” (Matthew 19:26)

We humans tend to think too small. Although I am always amazed when I hear of a new gadget on the market solving some problem I never would have thought of myself. You can probably think of examples of this as well. When we look at the Creator and the intricacies of nature, we are again stunned of the limitless possibilities. God has such great plans for us.

Context (Matthew 19:16-30): It’s interesting to understand how Jesus was using our verse as a teachable moment. Jesus had just finished responding to a rich man who was asking about eternal life. Jesus had told him what he needed to do, but the man wasn’t ready to take those steps. After the disciples wondered who could ever be saved, Jesus told his disciples that it would be impossible to get into heaven, but with God’s help, everything would be possible. Continue reading “Matthew 19:26 – What’s Possible?”

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”