Repent or Perish — It’s That Simple
Sometimes the Bible seems to avoid being direct, other times it’s quite clear. Here’s a mix: Pilate mixed blood with sacrifices. In other words, he had Galileans slaughtered along with their sacrifices. What was that about? Jesus doesn’t miss a beat, “unless you repent, you too will perish.” Not that he isn’t saddened by Pilate’s …
Interpreting the Times
Unable to see the turbulent spiritual battles in front of them, Jesus tells us (“he said to the crowd”) to look at the evidence in front of us. The NIV Study Bible notes provide this insight: Despite the insistence of the Pharisees, despite the Roman system and even despite the pressure of family, a person …
Not Peace but Division
The peace that Jesus brings is Peace with the Father. This will result in conflict as Satan will not be satisfied with anything the draws people to Christ–expect problems! Families will be divided. It’s interesting to read how Jesus expresses his desire to be beyond this baptism, these constraints. I have a baptism to undergo, …
Watchfulness. Much will be required.
Matthew, Mark and Luke all include warnings to be watchful, to be ready at all times–for all to be on guard. In this passage, Jesus provides a parable to underscore the importance of being alert by prepared for the master’s return–any time. From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from …
Do Not Worry – Seek His Kingdom First
I should have included this passage when I covered (see post here), but it’s ok to visit this twice, if not providential! Instead of focusing on the first half, “do not worry,” let’s focus on the second part, “But seek his kingdom…where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Thoughts about serving othersThis …
Parable of the Rich Fool
Warnings and Encouragements
The crowds have gathered again and Jesus teaches on several key concepts in these 12 verses: hypocrisy of the Pharisees fear him who has authority to throw you into hell good or bad news for those who publicly acknowledge or disown Jesus blasphemy against the Holy Spirit support from the Holy Spirit That’s a lot …
Woes on the Pharisees and the Experts in the Law
Woe to those who held positions of leadership, the ones who were directing God’s chosen ones down a path that would lead to destruction. The timing of Jesus ministry is wrapped up in the history of our Jewish ancestors: their system was broken. God provided laws to create order and discipline; the Pharisees added layer upon …
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Our Eyes — The Light of the Body
In these few verses we find some deep meaning. Matthew and Luke record these key points of an important sermon that Jesus preached by recalling words that challenge us in many ways: “if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness.” This isn’t about physical blindness! Take a moment and consider the …