Matthew

In Matthew 18, we explore the various teachings and parables it presents. We begin by focusing on the disciples’ question about greatness in the kingdom of heaven and Jesus’ response that humility is key. He also emphasizes the importance of children and warns against causing them to sin. This leads to a discussion about the value of innocence and humility and how we should strive to maintain a childlike faith. We also discuss the issue of sin and temptation and Jesus’ strong words about the consequences of sin.

We then explore the parable of the lost sheep, discussing the lengths to which the shepherd will go to find and bring back a single lost sheep. This sparks a reflection on how Jesus always comes back for us and how we should have the same determination also to recover the lost sheep.  

We also touch on how we treat children today and how it must make Jesus weep about our sins of how we treat children. The discussion then turns to the importance of forgiveness, with Peter asking how often one should forgive.

We then examine the parable of a servant forgiven a massive debt by a king, only to show no mercy to a fellow servant who owed him a much smaller amount. We discuss the hypocrisy of the servant and the king’s reaction when he learns of this. The takeaway is about the importance of mercy and forgiveness and how our forgiveness should mirror the boundless forgiveness we receive from God.

In this episode, we look at the book of Matthew 17. We reflect on the transfiguration of Jesus and the appearance of Moses and Elijah. This was a significant event for Peter, James, and John. 

We also discuss Peter’s reaction to the sight and his offer to build a tent so this can go on the road and everyone can see it! God’s voice urges them to listen to Jesus. The narrative continues with the disciples’ fear, Jesus’s reassurance, and a reminder not to disclose the vision until after his resurrection.

Moses and Elijah were chosen to appear alongside Jesus. We consider Moses the lawgiver, the initiator of the law that Jesus completes, and Elijah a prophet devoted to God.  We talk about the expectations around Elijah’s arrival before the Messiah and how John the Baptist played that role. We address the confusion around this, considering that if John were a reincarnation of Elijah, people would have recognized him. 

The discussion moves on to the confrontation with a demon-possessed boy and the disciples’ inability to heal him. Jesus attributes their failure to a lack of faith, reminding us of his role as the power source and the need for unwavering faith.

The narrative then shifts to the prediction of Jesus’s death, which distresses the disciples, and the tax collection incident in Capernaum. Jesus presents a thought-provoking question about kings and their children’s tax obligations, implying that as the son of his Father in heaven, he shouldn’t have to pay the temple tax. However, he chooses not to cause a dispute over it and instructs Peter to find a fish with the tax money in its mouth.

We also contemplate the themes of faith and choosing battles wisely and the idea of sharing the power of faith with others. 

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the book of Matthew 16. The conversation revolves around the interactions between Jesus and His disciples, as well as with the Pharisees and Sadducees. It’s intriguing to observe how the latter group constantly tested Jesus despite the numerous miracles He had already performed. The host also reflects on Jesus’ statement about building His church on ‘rock’ and what that implies.

We also explore the concept of the keys to the kingdom, which is often misunderstood. There are various interpretations, such as the power to forgive and condemn or the ability to establish minor rules within the church. The host leans towards the latter interpretation, as he argues against the idea that Jesus would establish a system that could be easily abused, as seen with the Pharisees and Sadducees.

The discussion then moves to Jesus’ prediction of His own death and resurrection. Despite Jesus repeatedly informing His disciples of what was to come, they could not fully comprehend it. The host reflects on how we often focus on earthly matters, as Peter did when he tried to prevent Jesus’ suffering, instead of focusing on God’s plan.

In this episode, we discussed the meaning of tradition in relation to Jesus and our faith, focusing on Matthew 15. We explored the confrontation between Jesus and the Pharisees, who questioned him about the tradition of washing hands. Jesus responded by challenging their hypocrisy and pointed out how they exploited religious laws for their benefit while neglecting their moral duties, like honoring their parents. He then quoted Isaiah, condemning them for honoring God with their lips while their hearts were far from Him. Jesus emphasized that true worship comes from the heart, not just adherence to man-made laws.

We then delved into Jesus’ teachings on what truly defiles a person. According to Jesus, what comes out of their mouths reflects the condition of their hearts, not whether they wash their hands or what they eat. When good is within us, good things come out; conversely, when evil resides within, it manifests through our words. This teaching offended the Pharisees. But Jesus emphasized that those who failed to understand His teachings were like blind guides leading the blind.

The discussion continued with the encounter Jesus had with a Canaanite woman in Tyre and Sidon, who pleaded with him to heal her demon-possessed child. Initially, Jesus expressed that His mission was for the children of Israel, but the woman persisted, expressing her faith in Him. Her persistence and faith impressed Jesus, leading Him to grant her request and heal her child. This story demonstrated the power of unwavering faith and determination, regardless of one’s race or status in society.

Finally, we reflected on how tradition can either bind us together or distract us from the true essence of our faith. While traditions like celebrating Christmas can bring us together as a community, they should not replace or overshadow the fundamental teachings and truths of the Bible. The episode concluded with the encouragement to have faith like the Canaanite woman and to keep seeking God with determination, recognizing that Jesus has compassion for everyone, regardless of their background or heritage.

This episode is about Matthew 14, where we see Jesus’ ministry becoming more bold. The chapter starts with Herod the Tetrarch, who hears about Jesus and mistakenly believes that John the Baptist has been raised from the dead. Herod had previously imprisoned John for condemning his marriage to his brother’s wife, and eventually had John beheaded. The story then shifts to Jesus, who, upon hearing of John’s death, retreats to a desolate place. However, crowds follow him, and he compassionately heals their sick and miraculously feeds them with just five loaves and two fishes.

The narrative then moves to an event where Jesus walks on water, a miracle that initially frightens his disciples. Peter, one of the disciples, attempts to walk on water too, but he begins to sink when he becomes afraid. He cries out to Jesus, who reaches out and saves him. This moment deeply resonates with me; it symbolizes how, in moments of fear and doubt, Jesus is always there to save us even when it is the fault of our own doubt.

Reflecting on Peter’s actions, I wonder what it reveals about his character or our own faith. Was Peter bold or impulsive? Or was he testing what he saw before him? I find that there’s something to learn from his willingness to step out of the boat, a step I admit I might not have taken myself. This week, I plan to meditate on this concept of stepping out in faith despite the uncertainties and fears that might surround us.

In closing, I want to emphasize that no matter the situation, Jesus is always there to extend his hand and pull us back into safety. Whether or not things turn out the way we hope, Jesus’ compassion and care for us remain constant. My prayer for this week is to have the kind of faith that would enable me to step out of the boat, knowing that even when I begin to sink, Jesus will be there to save me.

In this podcast episode, we explore the teachings of Matthew 13 which comes mostly from parables. He tells parables, and then he emphasizes the importance of truly listening and internalizing His messages. The main theme is the parable of the sower and the seeds, and how people receive and respond to God’s word differently. Some people understand and cultivate it, becoming fruitful, while others ignore it or let worldly distractions choke it out.

He tells us that it’s not our job to judge or separate the ‘good’ from the ‘bad.’ Only God can do this, and He will do it at the end of days, not before. It may be difficult for some to accept, but it’s crucial to remember that God gives us all the time we need to stop resisting Him and accept His salvation. We look at the parables of the mustard seed and leavened bread, which metaphorically illustrate the growth of God’s kingdom from seemingly small beginnings.

We then move on to the parables about the hidden treasure and the exquisite pearl. Both stories emphasize the immense value of the Kingdom of Heaven and how it’s worth sacrificing everything to attain it. The last parable is about the net thrown into the sea, filled with both good and bad fish. This parable is similar to the parable of the wheat and the weeds, reinforcing the idea that it’s not our job to judge or separate; rather, it’s God’s task, which He will perform at the end of days.

In conclusion, we should truly listen and let God’s message penetrate their hearts. We can have a desire to be the good soil that receives God’s word, nurtures it, and yields a fruitful harvest. Consider what type of soil you are and to avoid being choked out by the thorny bushes of worldly distractions.

Today, we will be exploring the teachings of Jesus and their implications in Matthew 12. One of the main themes in this chapter is the Sabbath, Jesus’ role as the Lord of the Sabbath, and how the Pharisees interpret Sabbath laws. As we encounter the incidents of Jesus healing on the Sabbath and feeding his disciples, we confront the criticisms of the Pharisees. However, Jesus challenges these criticisms, saying that the Sabbath is meant for man and He, as the Lord of the Sabbath, is the ultimate authority on its observance.

The chapter also delves into the topic of good and evil, emphasizing the importance of actions reflecting inner character. Jesus speaks of good trees bearing good fruit and bad trees bearing bad fruit, confronting the Pharisees as a ‘brood of vipers’ for their evil deeds. He also warns of the unforgivable sin of blaspheming against the Holy Spirit. This is a challenging passage that I feel requires careful consideration and possibly a deeper discussion with a trusted spiritual leader.

There is a clear fulfillment of the prophecies from Isaiah and Jesus’ declaration that He is greater than Jonah and Solomon. The three days Jonah spent in the belly of the fish prefigures Jesus’ death and resurrection, and the repentance of the Ninevites and the Queen of Sheba’s journey to hear Solomon’s wisdom foreshadow the Gentiles turning to Jesus. Moreover, the passage about an unclean spirit returning to an ’empty house’ with seven other spirits emphasizes the danger of a spiritual vacuum and the need for positive spiritual filling.

Finally, the chapter ends on a powerful note as Jesus redefines family, extending His familial ties to all who do the will of His Father in heaven. This is a beautiful and inclusive message, affirming that we are all part of God’s family when we follow His will. Reflecting on these teachings, I find myself contemplating the true meaning of the Sabbath and how I can better align myself with God’s will.

In this episode, we explore Matthew 11 and its significance in the narrative of Jesus’s ministry. If we look at John the Baptist’s imprisonment and his message to Jesus, asking if he is the one who is to come. Maybe he worried about his fate or if he was wrong about Jesus. Jesus responds by telling John’s disciples about the miracles he has performed and emphasizing the importance of faith in him.

We then examine Jesus’s critique of the towns that rejected him despite witnessing his miracles. He highlights his difficulty in spreading his message, even when accompanied by miraculous signs.

Next, we delve into the metaphor of the ‘yoke’ used by Jesus to convey his teachings. He invites those who are weary and burdened to take his yoke upon them, promising that his yoke is easy and his burden is light. This message reflects the grace and comfort Jesus offers to those who follow him, contrasting it with the burdens and expectations placed on the people by religious leaders of the time.

Finally, we reflect on the importance of understanding and accepting Jesus’s teachings, regardless of societal pressures or preconceived notions. We highlight that faith and understanding often transcend worldly wisdom and conclude with an invitation to learn from Jesus’s gentleness, humility, and the rest he offers to those who follow him.

In this chapter, we talk about the calling of the disciples by Jesus. These were the first laborers sent out to gather the harvest after Jesus asked them to pray for them to come. The disciples are given the power of Jesus to perform miracles, heal, and share the word of God. Jesus tells them not to carry many things but to let the towns and homes they visit care for them.
Moving into the second part, the challenges that the disciples are set to face. The stark reality of the persecution they will face from the synagogue, the government, and even their own families. People will bring the sword and punishments of the governmental structures to His followers because of Jesus and His Word despite it being a message of meekness and peace. Despite the grim picture, Jesus assured them they need not fear, for the Holy Spirit will guide them in what to say.
In the third part, Jesus says their reward is that of the righteous and the prophets. If they do what He says, the smallest kindness shown to his apostles will be rewarded too. 

In the first part of our discussion, we explore Matthew 9, where Jesus returns to Capernaum after the pig incident. In the first few verses, we see Jesus healing a paralyzed man and forgiving his sins, which caused controversy among the scribes. In a surprising turn of events, Jesus calls a tax collector named Matthew to follow him, which leads to a gathering at Matthew’s house with other tax collectors and sinners. This prompts the Pharisees to question Jesus’s company choice, leading to Jesus’s response that he came not to call the righteous but sinners. He reminds us that the sick need the physician, and each of us is in need regardless of background or heritage, or choices.

Next, we delve into how Jesus responds to questions about fasting from John’s disciples. He uses the analogy of wedding guests not fasting while the bridegroom is present. Jesus also introduces the parables of the unshrunk cloth and new wine in old wineskins to illustrate the incompatibility of new teaching in tattered and inflexible containers.

The narrative then shifts to a series of miraculous healings performed by Jesus. He raises a ruler’s daughter from the dead, heals a woman who has been suffering from a bleeding disorder for 12 years, gives sight to two blind men, and restores speech to a mute man. Each of these miracles highlights the faith of those healed and the compassionate nature of Jesus. Despite being accused of casting out demons by the power of the prince of demons, Jesus continues his miraculous works, demonstrating his divine authority.

Finally, as we reflect on the closing verses of the chapter, we focus on Jesus’s compassion for the crowds and his call for laborers for the harvest. The image of the harassed and helpless crowd, like sheep without a shepherd, underscores the people’s need for guidance and care. Jesus encourages his disciples to pray for more laborers for the harvest, which makes it clear that we are all called to be laborers and share in spreading the kingdom’s good news. This call to action presents a challenge for us all: to become the answer to others’ prayers and participate in the miraculous work of God’s harvest.