Making disciples is perhaps the most significant command required by Jesus–certainly the most important one to effectively spread the Gospel. We are commanded to go and make disciples of all nations, but Jesus’ response to these men does little to encourage them to become disciples–they failed the first test. Very interesting to unpack this short scripture.
Matthew 8:19-22, Luke 9:57-62
The Parable of the Unmerciful Servant
Peter thought he was being bold to consider forgiving a brother or sister in Christ up to seven times, but Jesus sets the bar much higher: seventy-seven times (infinitely)! To explain, Jesus gives us this parable that’s easy to understand until we insert our name in the place of the unmerciful servant.
Matthew 18:21-35
Sin in the Church, Steps to Reconciliation
Matthew provides Jesus’ 3-step process for dealing with sin in the church, our brothers and sisters. He loves the church so much that he wants us to be responsible and self-correcting. Here are three simple steps that are often the most challenging things we will ever do.
Matthew 18:15-20Whoever is Not against us is For us
Jesus welcomes those who are “for him” whether or not they are “with him.” There is some tension here between the reference in Matthew vs Mark and Luke, but they are two very different circumstances that emphasize our need to understand the context of scripture.
Matthew 12:30, Mark 9:38-41, Luke 9:49-50
Warning against causing believers to sin
Take drastic measures to ensure that sin doesn’t cause others to stumble.
Matthew 18:6-14, Mark 9:42-50
The Greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven
Once again, Jesus provides an answer that completely conflicts with the traditional views, in this case, he seems to honor children above elders (well, everyone else for that matter)!
Matthew 18:1-5, Mark 9:33-37, Luke 9:46-48
Paying the Temple Tax
Peter is confronted by the temple tax collection committee and Jesus doesn’t want this to become an issue. How he resolves this is quite interesting — he sends Peter fishing!
Matthew 17:24-27
Second prediction of Jesus’ death and resurrection
In the midst of excitement, Jesus explains his death and resurrection, but the disciples “did not understand what he meant and were afraid to ask him about it.” It’s easy to relate to their confusion here. Read, pray, grow.
Matthew 17:22-23, Mark 9:30-32, Luke 9:43b-45
Healing of a demon-possessed boy and unbelief rebuked
The disciples were not able to drive out the demon from a boy, so Jesus has to step in and take care of the issue. But there’s a broader issue at stake here: complete faith. Memorable quotes like “Faith of a mustard seed to move a mountain,” and “everything is possible” for those who truly believe come from this passage.
Matthew 17:14-20, Mark 9:14-29, Luke 9:37-43a
Transfiguration of Jesus
His appearance changed before their eyes and they saw with Jesus two of the most significant men in Judaism: Moses and Elijah. He was transfigured, transformed into something more beautiful (Google’s definition). Peter speaks up (no surprise), let’s build something! Then they heard the voice of God say, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!”
Matthew 17:1-13, Mark 9:2-13, Luke 9:28-36