The clash of kingdoms
Scripture reading for February 5: Matthew 26
“But Jesus remained silent. And the high priest said to Him, “I adjure you by the living God, tell us if You are the Christ, the Son of God.” Jesus said to him, “You have said so. But I tell you, from now on you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power and coming on the clouds of heaven.” Then the high priest tore his robes and said, “He has uttered blasphemy. What is your judgment?” They answered, “He deserves death.” Then they spit in His face and struck Him. And some slapped Him, saying “Prophesy to us, You Christ! Who is it that struck you?”” Matthew 26:63-68
Jesus Christ, the Son of God, came from the throne-room of heaven to do His Father’s will. He had faced every temptation and lure of the culture and His own flesh through the incarnation and becoming a man. Yet He came in humble obedience to His Father and knew that He would return to that position of power and glory that belonged to Him. He also knew He must face the cross and the false accusations of His own people and their mockery of His revelation of His Father and the demonstration of God’s love. Jesus was fully aware of the clash of the kingdoms in the spirit realm. Sinful man, under the domination of Satan, was mocking His Truth and Sonship. God the Father had declared His Sonship and victory over Satan and death through the cross.
Jesus Christ, during this mockery of a trial before the Jewish high priest, was asked mockingly if He was indeed the Son of God, the Christ. Jesus declared that they had said that. He went on to declare His coming victory over death and His resurrection to His rightful place at God’s right hand. He also declared His coming again with clouds of glory! Jesus declared truth as He was the Truth! Those trying Him rejected truth and believed their own darkened lie in spite of all evidence from the life of Jesus Christ and His ministry of miracles and prophecy. They mocked, spit, cursed, and slapped the Son of God and soon crucified Him. This was the clash of the kingdoms of heaven and Satan.
As you read this account, in what ways have you experienced this ‘clash of kingdoms’ in your own life? Is Jesus Christ the Son of God, or just another imposter? Are you ready to see Jesus coming on the clouds and to face Him on His judgment seat?
Prayer: Father, I believe that Jesus Christ is Your Son. Thank You for mercy and favor. I am trusting in the victory that Jesus won for me, defeating Satan and saving me from the penalty of my sin–death and hell. Your kingdom come! Your will be done! On earth as in heaven! In me! Now and forever! Amen!
Living in fear!
Scripture reading for February 4th: Matthew 25
“And he also who had the two talents came forward, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me two talents; here I have made two talents more.’ His master said to him, “Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of the master.’ He also who had received the one talent came forward, saying, ‘Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you scattered no seed, so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here you have what is yours.’ But his master answered him, ‘You wicked and slothful servant! You knew that I reap where I have not sown and gather where I scattered no seed? Then you ought to have invested my money with the bankers, and at my coming I should have received what was my own with interest.'” Matthew 25:22-27
When we do not know God from personal experience, we tend to make assumptions about His character. Sin has blinded us and given us a self-centered world view. Jesus, in answering His disciples questions about what it would be like when He returned, told this parable of a master giving property and money to his stewards. One got five talents, one two talents, and one got one talent, each according to their abilities. They were told to do his business. The master went away for an undisclosed time. The stewards each acted on their assignments, some in faith and one in fear.
The master returned and brought these stewards in for an accounting. The one with five had gotten five more. The one with two had gotten two more. Both were commended and rewarded. The one with one talent returned giving back the one talent. His statement revealed his fear of the master and his feeling of the master as a hard man who was unjust in reaping where he did not sow. He hid his talent in the ground and returned it without increase. For this, he lost his position as a steward and was sent away to suffer. This parable is meant to cause us to evaluate our stewardship of the talents God has blessed us with. Are we investing in faith according to God’s instruction in His Word or living in fear?
Prayer: Father God, thank You for these clear parables concerning conditions among mankind when Your Son returns. Help me to wisely invest Your talents given to me that I might have increase to offer You when I see You again. I desire to hear You say to me, “Well done, good and faithful servant!” Amen.
Why the mourning?
Scripture reading for February 3rd: Matthew 24
“Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. Then will appear in the heaven the sign of the Son of Man, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And He will send out His angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather His elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.” Matthew 24:29-31
This was Jesus’ final instructions to His disciples about conditions on the earth at His return in power and glory. There would be a period of great tribulation on the earth just prior to His return. This period would be marked by a darkened sun and no moonlight. There would be great shaking in the heavens, causing the stars to fall. People on earth would be fainting with fear at the supernatural events. Then, suddenly, the sign of the Son of Man would appear. Jesus Christ would come with legions of angels in great power and glory. The command to gather His elect from the corners of the earth would go forth and those watching for Him and prepared would be caught up to meet Him.
However, there would be many from the tribes on earth who would be mourning at His glorious coming! Why? I believe it is because they refused to listen to the warnings of Jesus and the Word of God. They were busy doing their own things instead of preparing for Christ’s return and furthering His kingdom through sharing the Gospel and holy living. The judgments of the tribulation and the signs on earth and in heaven were lost on them. They wrote them off as ‘climate change’ or chance. They mocked God and those warning them.
As you contemplate this description of Christ’s coming, would you say that you are prepared? What signs have you observed that match those in this passage? What is your attitude towards God’s Word?
Prayer: Father, thank You again for warning us through Your own Son of the events at His return. I am trusting in Jesus Christ’s sacrifice and Word for escape from tribulation and eternal life. Use me to share this Good News with those still lost in their own willful ways. May my family all be saved. Amen.
Beware of putting on a show.
Scripture reading for January 31: Matthew 23
“They do all their deeds to be seen by others. For they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long, and they love the place of honor at feasts and the best seats in the synagogues and greetings in the marketplaces and being called rabbi by others. But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers. And call no man your father on earth, for you have one Father, Who is in heaven. Neither be called instructors, for you have one Instructor, the Christ. The greatest among you shall be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” Matthew 23:5-12
Jesus warned His disciples about the religious showmen of His day, the Pharisees and scribes. Their religious deeds were meant to be seen by others so that their reputation might be enhanced. Pride and desire for glory was behind their showmanship. They wanted approval of men and places of honor and people looking upon them for their prestigious titles. These people were setting themselves up for a humbling experience.
But followers of Jesus would find true greatness in becoming servants of God and others. The titles of ministry or leadership were not to be sought after. Each follower had One Rabbi and Teacher, Jesus Christ, Who Alone was worthy of praise and exaltation. No man was to be called ‘father’ because all have One Father, God Almighty. The posture of assuming the lowest place of a servant would bring reward.
Do you see any aspects of your life today where you are seeking the approval of men rather than God? Are titles and places of honor something you crave? What is one thing you could do to humble yourself?
Prayer: Father God, thank You for this plain warning concerning the pride of life and seeking man’s approval. I know that I have fallen into that trap at times in my life. Thank You for the correction and direction that comes from Your Word and the Holy Spirit. Have Your way in me, Lord! Amen.
The greatest commandment
Scripture reading for January 30: Matthew 22
“But when the Pharisees heard that He had silenced the Sadducees, they gathered together. And one of them, a lawyer, asked Him a question to test Him. “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?” And He said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets.”” Matthew 22:34-40
Religious people love rules. By using rules, they try to determine those who are ‘in’ with God and those who are ‘out’. The Sadducees had tried this using their interpretations of the law concerning marriage and divorce and the resurrection to trip up Jesus and show that He was ‘out’. (Matthew 22:23-33) Jesus referred them to the Scriptures to correct their errant world view.
In this passage, the Pharisees also tested Jesus concerning the ‘rules’. The sought to trap Him by asking which of God’s laws was the greatest. Jesus did not hesitate to answer them with the first commandment of the Law: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” Jesus taught that love for God involved relationship and obedience from the heart and the whole of our being. He also added a second commandment: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” He taught that these two commandments were the foundation of all the Law and Prophets–the Old Testament Scriptures. When anyone loves God, he or she will keep God’s commandments. In keeping the commandments, we demonstrate our love for God and our neighbor who is made in God’s image. The commandments of the Law simply reveal our heart as a mirror does our face!
As you contemplate these two simple commandments, how do you evaluate your relationship with God and also with your neighbors? Would others observing your life say that you loved God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength? Does your love for your neighbor reflect your love for God?
Prayer: Father God, please have mercy on me today as my love for You has not been complete. In my soul I want to love You, but my mind and body sometimes take me back to my old selfish nature.. This affects my love for others. I have put myself ahead of You and others. Fill me with Your Spirit and teach me real love for You and others! Amen.
Who is this?
Scripture reading for January 29: Matthew 21
“They brought the donkey and the colt and put on them their cloaks, and He sat on them. Most of the crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. And the crowds that went before Him and that followed Him were shouting, “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is He Who comes in the Name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!” And when He entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred up, saying, “Who is this? And the crowds said, “This is the prophet Jesus, from Nazareth of Galilee.”” Matthew 21:7-10
As Jesus entered Jerusalem, He chose the entry of the kings of Israel and instructed His disciples where to find the donkey colt for Him to ride. This was a prophetic ride, depicting His triumphant return to earth to set up His millennial kingdom. The crowds spread their cloaks before Him as a sign of honor and submission. They proclaimed Him “Son of David”, a messianic title. They worshiped Him with a prophetic declaration as coming in the Name of the Lord! Each person’s view and understanding was being shaped by the Word of God that they knew and the revelation of Jesus as He had ministered to His own people. Many asked “Who is this?” Some said that Jesus was a prophet from Galilee. Each person responded through the view that they had by grace from Jesus and His Father.
God allows each person to make up their mind and develop an understanding of Jesus and Who He is. When He returns, our world view of Jesus will determine our eternal destiny. Have you formed an opinion of Jesus Christ? Has Scripture been a basis of your understanding? Have you been public in your worship and declaration of Jesus Christ, Son of David and Son of God? Are you still asking “Who is this?”?
Prayer: Father God, thank You for this record of Jesus Christ entering Jerusalem as a humble King. Thank You for drawing each person to ask about Your Son and for revealing Your Son. I proclaim “Hosanna in the highest to the Son of God!” Stir up the hearts of all people to know Him as Lord and Savior. Amen.
Son of David!
Scripture reading for January 28: Matthew 20
“And as they went out of Jericho, a great crowd followed Him. And behold, there were two blind men sitting by the roadside, and when they heard that Jesus was passing by, they cried out, “Lord, have mercy on us, Son of David!” The crowd rebuked them, telling them to be silent, but they cried out all the more, “Lord, have mercy on us, Son of David!” And stopping, Jesus called them and said, “What do you want Me to do for you?” They said to Him, “Lord, let our eyes be opened.” And Jesus in pity touched their eyes, and immediately they received their sight.” Matthew 20:29-34
The world often looks down on those who are needy or handicapped. Those that have to beg for help or for a living are thought to be distractions or a bother to the important people of life. Our culture often shapes our world view and it was no different in Jesus’ day in the nation of Israel. But God takes notice of all people. He is no respecter of persons but honors faith whenever it is present. He is not bothered by our cry for mercy.
These blind beggars evidently heard that Jesus Christ was passing by. They had heard about the miracles of healing and the buzz concerning the possibility that this was the expected Christ. In faith, they called out respectfully to Jesus for His mercy on their life of darkness. They shouted and in spite of the crowds demand that they quiet down, continued to loudly call out to the “Son of David” for help. Jesus stopped and took time to inquire of their request. As they asked for open eyes, Jesus opened them promptly! What a miracle to behold!
Are you unashamedly calling to Jesus for the help you need? Have your circumstances or those people around you caused you to be silent and cry no more? Call out again as Jesus is near and full of mercy!
Prayer: Father God, Thank You for Your amazing mercy and response to those in darkness, need and misery. Use me to be their voice when they are silent and be Your hand extended in healing. Amen.
What’s in it for me?
Scripture reading for January 27: Matthew 19
“Then Peter said in reply, “See, we have left everything and followed You. What then will we have?” Jesus said to them, “Truly, I say to you, in the new world, when the Son of Man will sit on His glorious throne, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or lands for My Name’s sake, will receive a hundredfold and will inherit eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and the last first.” Matthew 19:27-30
The rich young ruler had just left with sadness when Jesus had advised him to sell all he had and follow Him. The disciples had listened and observed his sad departure. They began to examine their own sacrifice to follow Jesus. Was it going to be worth it? What would they really have when all was said and done?
As we go through life as believers and followers of Jesus, we all have a tendency to ask the same question as Jesus’ disciples: “See, we have left everything and followed You. What then will we have?” The world mocks our decision. Many in our world seem to be enjoying riches, fame, and pleasure who have not given up anything to follow Jesus. But looks can be deceptive. Jesus promised an amazing reward for those who by faith would leave behind the riches of this world and even have broken family ties because of allegiance to Him. There would be a great reversal. Those now considered ‘first’ would then be ‘last’, and those now considered ‘last’ or ‘losers’ would be first!
What impact on your world view does this simple teaching of Jesus have on how you are viewing life in our culture? What is the focus of your life at present? Who, in your view, is now considered ‘first’ in our land? Is there anything that you need to change in your own life and priorities?
Prayer: Father God, I am thankful that You have revealed to me that the pursuit of riches is not the way to life eternal. As I grow older and approach life on earth’s end, use me to share Your promises of eternal life and eternal rewards with those who are caught up in trying to be ‘first’. You, Alone, are my reward! Amen.
Heaven’s greatest!
Scripture reading for January 24: Matthew 18
“At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” And calling to Him a child, He put him in the midst of them and said, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever receives one such child in My Name receives Me, but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea.” Matthew 18:1-6
Fame, fortune and beauty define the greatest people in the eyes of the world. Therefore, the world is always seeking prestige from great accomplishments, earning large amounts of money, or being especially beautiful or handsome. All these accomplishments most often come with pride and promotion and competition for the top spots. Contests are set up, lists of famous people are made, and fortunes are totaled to determine the winners.
But Jesus’ disciples asked Him who was the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Their motive was probably to have Jesus confirm one of them in that role but Jesus took this opportunity to expand their world view. He found a child and had him put in their midst and made a bold statement. “Whoever humbles himself like this child is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” This was a challenge to their current self-centered view of being the greatest disciples. Not that this desire was bad, but the path to greatness was through humility and serving and learning God’s way of the cross. They were also warned to be careful that their worldly attitudes and actions might cause the children to go astray. This would bring eternal loss and judgment.
Are you currently seeking fulfilment through the world’s path of pride and accomplishment? Have you considered the children in your life that you are influencing? What actions will you take to respond?
Prayer: Father God, I confess that I have desired ‘greatness’ in this world system. Thank You for showing me my children and my need to become like a child and learn from You and them. Lead me today in the path of true greatness and humble service. Amen.
A window into Heaven
Scripture reading for January 23: Matthew 17
“And after six days Jesus took with Him Peter and James, and John his brother, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. And He was transfigured before them, and His face shone like the sun and His clothes became white as light. And behold, there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with Him. And Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good that we are here. If you wish, I will make three tents here, one for You and one for Moses and one for Elijah.” He was still speaking when, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a Voice from the cloud said, “This is My beloved Son, with Whom I am well pleased; listen to Him.” Matthew 17:1-5
Sinful man cannot know the things of God unless by grace God reveals them. Therefore Jesus was always revealing His Father to His disciples. This revelation would challenge their world view and open up new understanding of heaven, the Father, and Jesus Christ as Lord. This account of the transfiguration involved the inner circle of the disciples: Peter, James and John. They were allowed to see Jesus in a transformed and glorified body, meeting with His Father in a cloud of glory. They also saw the glorified spirits of Moses and Elijah and recognized them. They were also ‘alive’ and able to speak. They heard the Voice of God confirming His Son. This occurred on a high mountain in Israel and resulted in them falling on their faces in worship and fear.
What can we gain from reading this account? First, there is a realm of heaven beyond our natural sight that is real. In this realm, God rules in clouds of glory. God, Himself, speaks and confirms His Son as beloved and also glorified. He commands us to “Listen to Him!” We have confirmed that servants of God are also still living and recognized by name. As Jesus calmed His disciples fear, we can now await His glorious return and our glorified bodies.
Prayer: Father God, thank You for confirming Your Son Jesus Christ! We heed Your command to ‘Listen to Him!” We await our own transfiguration at His return and Your confirmation of us as faithful servants. May others see Your image and glory in our obedience today. Amen.