Mark 7 - Esther

It is amazing that Jesus was healing people.

One of the parts that seem stood out was when Jesus kept mentioning to people about not telling others amazing things He has done. Since people were amazed, they were kept talking to others about Jesus. 

Mark 7 - Nathanael

This chapter of Mark has several important components:

1) Mark 7:1-23 - That which defiles

Verses 18-19: "Are you so dull?" he asked. "Don't you see that nothing that enters a person from the outside can defile them?19 For it doesn't go into their heart but into their stomach, and then out of the body." (In saying this, Jesus declared all foods clean.)

Jesus here declares all food clean, which is an important factor that affects how we eat each day

Verses 20-23: He went on: "What comes out of a person is what defiles them. 21 For it is from within, out of a person's heart, that evil thoughts come—sexual immorality, theft, murder, 22 adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly. 23 All these evils come from inside and defile a person."

This is a great list of evil which defiles us.  It is easy for us to feel "good" about ourselves which leads to pride, hypocrisy and more evil.  But Jesus is clear about what types of things are evil and defile us - not just the external acts but the internal thoughts.  The great news is that we can learn that we are indeed sinners in need each day of a savior, and submit and surrender ourselves and our lives to Jesus who loves us and is faithful to forgive and cleanse us of unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).  Also as we surrender to him he changes our desires (will) and enables us to act righteous (Phil 2:13).  Now that is great news!!

2) Mark 7:24-30 Syrophonecian woman's faith

There are many interesting aspects but what is standing out to me today is that Jesus' power can heal in person and from far away (as in this case).  He is responding to the faith of the person. Jesus' goal in healing is not just to help people in the temporary situation, but for them to know that he is God and that he loves them.  In this case, the woman's faith is strong and isn't in need of him being there to know that he is the source of the healing.  This is quite contrasted from the next section with the deaf and mute man.

3) Mark 7:31-37 - Deaf and mute man

In this passage, Jesus heals a deaf and mute man by touching the parts of the man that were in need of healing.  So the question is, "why does Jesus touch the man in this case but heal remotely in the prior situation?" In this case, the man could not see nor hear Jesus so he wouldn't even know that he is there.  But the man can feel Jesus touch.  After Jesus touches these broken areas in his life and then he is healed, he would know that there is a direct connection between the two situations.  He then would know that Jesus is the source of his healing and beyond just being healed, he can know the source of eternal salvation and know the God who loves him - the source of eternal healing.

Thank you Jesus because you not only have the power to heal, the love and desire to heal but you also know how we need to receive your healing!!

Mark 6 - Esther

I liked how book of Mark is a bit more detailed than Matthew.

From the story where John the Baptist's head is cut off stood out. Giving words in front of crowd can be tough that King Herod took a huge responsibility. The takeaways are be cautious in giving words with promises and trust in the Lord.

Mark 5 and 6 - Jason

Jesus did so many amazing miracles that are undeniable in their power and their unsurpassed quality. I am amazed that Jesus said that those who believe in Him will do even even greater things than he has done. I can't think of anyone in history who has done greater things than Jesus. Does that mean that none of us truly believe in Him the way that he expects us to? I'm so blessed that God loves us and He is willing to do anything and everything to help us and be with us. Jesus did not have to come and suffer the way He did, and He did not have to help all the people in the way that He did. But it's just amazing that left and right He is healing everyone, teaching everyone, and providing for everyone's needs. He sent out the twelve apostles to preach and teach as well, and I'm sure that they also touched many people, but I wonder if it's possible to do even greater things than Jesus did.

Mark 5 - Esther

One of the favorite verses of all the time.

"Dear woman, your faith has healed you. Go in peace. You are free from your suffering." -Mark 5:34

Mark 3 and 4 - Jason

I was touched by how Jesus was so open to all the crowds of people who wanted to touch him. He was openly teaching them and healing everyone who would come to him. It seems like there is not an instance of a person who came to him and asked for help or touched him and did not receive healing or teaching or deliverance. Thank you Lord God for your mercy and patience and love! I pray that I will be bold to come to God with all my needs and be trusting in Him every day for strength and help.

It's also interesting to me how calm Jesus was in the boat while the storm was blowing and the disciples were afraid that they were going to die. Jesus was sleeping until they woke him up and asked him why he was so calm while they were dying! Jesus simply got up and rebuked the storm and it stopped. His authority is amazing, and I take it for granted too many times. I want to learn how to pray bigger prayers and trust is God for the big changes that I need in my life and the people around me.

Mark 4 - Esther

I love the story of the mustard seed where it explains about God's kingdom.

"It is like a mustard seed, which is the smallest seed planted in the ground. But when you plant the seed, it grows. It becomes the largest of all garden plants. Its branches are so big that birds can rest its shade." - Mark 4: 31-32

Mark 3 - Esther

One of the verses that stood out this morning.

"Everyone's sins and evil words against God will be forgiven. But anyone who speaks evil things against the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven. His guilt will last forever." - Mark 3:28 - 29

Mark 1 and 2 - Jason

I was touched by how quickly the first disciples of Jesus followed him. The Bible says that they were casting their fishing nets. Jesus said, "Follow me, and I will make you become fishers of men." And immediately they left their nets and followed him. They left their jobs and parents and perhaps wives to follow the Lord. Maybe their wives went with them? Either way, they knew that Jesus would give them a new life, and Jesus was the person to follow. I want to follow him too, and I want to be willing to go the extra mile and do what he calls me to do. I have to admit that being a "fisher of men" sounds like a cool job :)

Matthew 2 - Esther

One of the verses that moved my heart.

"Those who are healthy don't need a doctor. Sick people do. I have not come to get those who think they are right with God to follow me. I have come to get sinners to follow me." - Matthew 2:17

Mark 1 - Esther

One of the favorite verses all the time.

"Come. Follow me," Jesus said. "I will make you fishers of people." - Mark 1:17

It was interesting to see disciples left their belongings and followed Jesus. His Words are so strong that it seemed like disciples felt the Holy Spirit.

Matthew 28 - Esther

This is one of the chapters that makes me so excited and happy that Jesus has risen from the dead. All of the disciples seemed excited and felt like they were still dreaming.

I loved when Jesus mentioned to disciples saying, "Teach them to obey everything I have commanded you. And you can be sure that I am always with you, to the very end." - Matthew 28:20

Matthew 28 - Jason

This gospel according to Matthew includes some interesting details about how an angel came and frightened the Roman soldiers that were posted to guard the tomb of Jesus. The angel rolled away the stone and explained to Mary Magdalene and the other Mary (is this Jesus' mother?) that Jesus was risen and would meet them soon.

The guards were bribed to say that the disciples came and stole away the body--this would give the people an excuse to believe that Jesus did not rise from the dead. But the soldiers all knew what happened and the priests knew what happened. Why did they still oppose Christ and teaching about him even though he proved he was the Messiah by rising from the dead? This kind of behavior is really crazy to me. I know that the way people behave in the Bible is a lesson to us, and I should not look down on them. But I don't want to ignore the miracles of God in my life and around me the way that these men did. They did not repent, and they even tried to stop others from repenting and believing in God.

Matthew 28 - Nathanael

His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men.  The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples: 'He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.' Now I have told you."  

Matthew 28:3‭-‬7

This is the tremendous climax to the life of Jesus! He is risen from the dead! Just as his birth was announced by angels, so also his resurrection from the dead. 

The angels were so shiny and amazing that the guards passed out. The women also were afraid but the angels told them not to fear. 

Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted.

Matthew 28:16‭-‬17 NIV

The authenticity of the Bible shines through in moments like this. It mentions that some doubted. A made up story would not include such points. This is the exciting climax where Jesus meets with his disciples after rising from the dead! A made up story would say that all the disciples believed and lived happily ever after. But the gospel narratives tell it just like it happened: women first saw Jesus and some of the disciples doubted :)

But Jesus didn't rebuke their doubt. He continued to love them and call them to follow. 

Thank you Jesus for your great power and love! 

http://bible.com/111/mat.28.3-17.NIV

Matthew 27 - Esther

Whenever I read this chapter, I believe that Jesus had the greatest pain in the world when He got nailed on the cross that always make me quite emotional and believe in Him deeper. I can't describe in words how thankful and grateful that He took our sins and died for us. I always feel that He loves us so much which I do not deserve.

Matthew 27 - Jason

This chapter about the trial of Jesus with Pilate and then his crucifixion is very emotional for me. I still get teary when I read about this scene. I know that it was God's plan for Jesus to suffer and die in the crucifixion as a sacrifice for my sins and for the sin of the whole world. It is because he loves me and loves all the people he made that he was willing to endure all these terrible sufferings and take the sin of the world on himself and be killed. The verses that make me very emotional are 28-31 when the soldiers are mocking him. It is very humbling to me because Jesus is the King and has all the authority in the universe, and yet these men were beating and mocking him and spitting on him. He did not retaliate, even though he could have killed them all and judged them for eternity, but he died for them too. His love is so amazing!

Matthew 27 - Nathanael

Then what was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet was fulfilled: "They took the thirty pieces of silver, the price set on him by the people of Israel, and they used them to buy the potter's field, as the Lord commanded me."   

Matthew 27:9‭-‬10

It is somewhat interesting to see how much you can buy for 30 pieces of silver. 

After they had mocked him, they took off the robe and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him away to crucify him. 

Matthew 27:31

Jesus was severely beaten and then crucified - his body was broken for us. 

 "Take a guard," Pilate answered. "Go, make the tomb as secure as you know how." So they went and made the tomb secure by putting a seal on the stone and posting the guard.

Matthew 27:65‭-‬66 NIV

It is almost humerous to think that some say Jesus didn't fully die but that he swooned and then just got out of the tomb by himself. Obviously after being broken in body he couldn't push away a stone from inside and then overcome soldiers! That is, not if he were a mere man. But since he was God, he rose from the dead and no tomb could hold him!

http://bible.com/111/mat.27.9-66.NIV

Matthew 26 - Nathanael

"Put your sword back in its place," Jesus said to him, "for all who draw the sword will die by the sword.  Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels?  But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen in this way?"  

Matthew 26:52‭-‬54

Jesus' relationship to and view of weapons and violence is interesting. Generally he calls for a spiritual response versus a natural response as in this case. One time he did tell them to bring a sword but here clearly not. His comment that he who lives by the sword will die by the sword is quite clear. He says that he instead could call a legion of angels. This is the spiritual response. I guess this is my general response to self defense. 

 Then he began to call down curses, and he swore to them, "I don't know the man!" Immediately a rooster crowed. Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken: "Before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times." And he went outside and wept bitterly.

Matthew 26:74‭-‬75 NIV

This situation with Peter highlights something that is true for all of us: we often think that we are more brave and more resolute than we actually are. The good news is that Jesus knows this and still lives is and gives us grace and forgiveness! 

http://bible.com/111/mat.26.52-75.NIV

Matthew 26 (actually 26 this time) - Jason

This chapter is the really difficult to read because the disciples must have been so overwhelmed with grief and disappointment. Judas had betrayed his commitment to Jesus entirely and sold him out. Peter denied that he knew Jesus even though he knew that Jesus was the Messiah, it's as thought in that moment all of his followers doubted him. Perhaps this would spare them from being attacked and killed by the authorities as well. But it just seems like a very dark hour. Jesus still seems relatively calm and in control even though he was praying like crazy and overwhelmed with grief too. I wonder what was making him more sad--the fact that his disciples would fall away and experience the pain of losing him temporarily, or the fact that he would take the sin of the world and be separated from God and punished by God for a time. He knew what the ultimate result would be, but it was very difficult in the moment for Him to go through it. I pray that I will never deny the Lord even if I am afraid of losing my life, my job, my reputation, etc. I pray that I would not boast about how strong I am and then fail in the next moment as Peter did. Peter probably did not expect to be forgiven by Christ for what he did. I pray that I will take my decision seriously and recognize that they have consequences, but also recognize that God is bigger than the consequences and can restore me and deliver me from any problem.

Matthew 26 - Esther

This chapter is so emotional to me because Jesus got betrayed from Judas and Peter said he doesn't know Jesus. We prayed that no matter what happens, our faith will keep staying strong and not betraying Son of Man.

Matthew 25 - Esther

One of the verses that stood out from today's reading.

"So keep watch. You do not know the day or the hour that the groom will come."

We have to be wise and well prepared because we do not know when Jesus will come.

Matthew 26 - Jason

Jesus spoke to his disciples about a few parables related to believers and how they will be judged by Christ at the end of their life. I think these are all important ones for me to remember as I strive to live in a way that is worthy of my faith and trust in Jesus. I wonder about the 10 virgins and the wise ones who brought extra oil with them. I think as I am waiting for Jesus to return I want to be ready for him to come at any moment, but also be ready to wait a while. I don't want to run out of faith or patience before He comes. I also want to be like the servant who invests the talents wisely and gains many more for the Lord. I'm not sure what exactly the talents are, but it could be all the resources that God has given me to be effective in sharing my faith with others and being an ambassador for Christ that is actively looking to introduce people to God and the gospel. I want to be like the sheep who are generous and selfless giving to the least of these brothers and sisters of Christ. I don't want to be stingy or holding back what belongs to God, and I want to helpful to those around me and around the world who are in need of help. I cannot be successful at all these things on my own, I need Jesus' direction, and I need to stay connected to the body of Christ.

Matthew 24 - Jason

I think that Jesus helps me to understand how to wait for His return in this chapter. 1. I should be wary of false prophets who would preach a different Jesus or a different gospel from what I received in the Scripture. Someone might claim that the Christ has returned, but it will be obvious around the whole world the moment when He arrives. 2. I should not claim to know the day or the hour that Jesus is coming back. He said not to make predictions like this. So I will not listen to people who say that Jesus is coming back at a certain day. He did say to look for the signs. I can hear Christians saying that they think Jesus will return in their lifetime. I think it is healthy to live in a state of readiness for Jesus to come. I want to be ready for Him.

Matthew 24 - Esther

One of the verses that everyone should remember.

"Heaven and earth will pass away. But my words will never pass away." -Matthew 24:35

Matthew 24 - Nathanael

Even so, when you see all these things, you know that it  is near, right at the door. 

Matthew 24:33

It is quite interesting to see and understand the things that Jesus spoke about relating to the end times. While we don't know exact days or times still Jesus said that we could understand when his return is getting near. Certainly it seems that these days are bringing us close to that time!

 So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.

Matthew 24:44 NIV

The important part for us to remember about this is that we should be living our lives in such a way that is worthy of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ! 

http://bible.com/111/mat.24.33-44.NIV

Matthew 23 - Esther

One of the verses that made me deep thinking today. This chapter talks about when Jesus judges the Pharisees and the Teachers of the Law.

"... They look beautiful on the outside. But on the inside they are full of the bones of the dead. They are also full of other things that are not pure and clean." -Matthew 23:27

Matthew 23 - Jason

I always feel convicted when I read this chapter where Jesus is saying that the Pharisees and religious leaders are in trouble because of the things they are doing wrong and missing the mark. There is one that I wonder about sometimes: "you shut the kingdom of heaven in people's faces. For you neither enter yourselves nor allow those who would enter to go in." I wonder how this might apply to me today? I am trying to enter the kingdom of heaven by trusting in the true Jesus. I think that I might shut the door in people's faces if I ignore people and think that they cannot be saved, so I do not speak to them. I also feel convicted by the one, "you are all like whitewashed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within are full of dead people's bones and all uncleanness." I don't want to be someone who appears one way on the outside and then on the inside I'm totally different. I know that I am a sinner, and I continue to struggle with things in my heart, but I don't want to try and appear stronger than I am or more righteous than I am to others. I want to be open and honest, and humble myself before God and others. Lord God, please have mercy on me and help me to not be an overly religious person. Please help me not to trust in myself or my "good" deeds which add up to worse than nothing without your grace.

Matthew 22 - Jason

The religious leaders and powerful men among the Jews were testing Jesus with many questions. But the wisdom of Christ confounded them all. In fact, their wisdom looks like foolishness as I look back at their questions. I have been praying for God to humble me and work on my pride some more so that I do not take matters into my own hands and try to act before asking God what to do. I don't want to feel like I have a better idea and do not submit to God's ways which are way better. I want to follow God's greatest commandment first of loving him "with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind." And I want to "love your neighbor as yourself." Jesus is the wisest man who ever lived and he shows us a part of God's wisdom that is way higher than fallen human nature.

Matthew 22 - Esther

One of the greatest verses of all time.

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul... Love your neighbors as you love yourself." -Matthew 22:37,39

Matthew 22 - Nathanael

But Jesus, knowing their evil intent, said, "You hypocrites, why are you trying to trap me?  Show me the coin used for paying the tax." They brought him a denarius, 

Matthew 22:18‭-‬19

Jesus knew they were trying to trap and trick him but he called them out and refuted their efforts. He is a master - the wisest - debater

When they heard this, they were amazed. 

Matthew 22:22

They saw that no one could overwhelm him by knowledge. 

So they left him and went away.  No one could say a word in reply, and from that day on no one dared to ask him any more questions.

Matthew 22:46 NIV

We see here that not only is his teaching the most profound but that Jesus is also the smartest and wisest. 

http://bible.com/111/mat.22.18-46.NIV

Matthew 21 - Esther

One of the interesting verses of today.

"The kingdom of God will be taken away from you. It will be given to people who will produce its fruit. Everyone who falls on that stone will be broken to pieces. But the stone will crush anyone it falls on." - Matthew 21:43-44

Matthew 20+21 - Jason

I think the parables that Jesus told are all fascinating. The parable of the workers in the field (20:1-16) describes how God will give to each person a similar reward whether they have worked in the field for the entire day, or only a single hour. This parable speaks to me about not comparing myself to others when I am serving God or even in other aspects of my life. I should work and do what God made me to do and accept what reward and payment he offers without looking at others to see what they got. If I see what another person got that's good I should be happy for them and thank God for giving good things to all! Thank you Lord for your great mercy and generosity to me and so many others!

I was watching a movie called "Son of God" last night, and when they show the scene of the Triumphal Entry, one of the temple guards informs the high priest that Jesus is entering Jerusalem on a donkey, and the priest also knows this prophecy from the Old Testament that "Behold, your king is coming to you. Humble and riding on a donkey". This infuriated the high priest because he thought that Jesus was a fraud and not the true Messiah. I don't know if the high priest really thought way, but maybe he did. Because when Jesus did claim to be God, the high priest tore his robes and thought that he was committing blasphemy. I'm not sure if I fully understand why they were so offended by Jesus' claim that they wanted Jesus to be killed. But it seems similar to this situation: Jesus knew that he is Messiah, and he was doing things according to the prophecies about what the Messiah would do. The people who were looking for the Messiah, but only in their own terms, were looking for a strong king to save them from their earthly enemies. When Jesus did not do that, they thought he was a fraud. But Jesus is the Messiah and he was doing everything exactly according to Scripture that the Messiah would do. 

Matthew 21 - Nathanael

When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred and asked, "Who is this?"  The crowds answered, "This is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee."  

Matthew 21:10‭-‬11

The people were excited about Jesus but didn't really know who he was. 

But when the chief priests and the teachers of the law saw the wonderful things he did and the children shouting in the temple courts, "Hosanna to the Son of David," they were indignant.  

Matthew 21:15

Rather than being happy and excited they were indignant. Sometimes we, like them, get so caught up in our own ideas, plans and expectations that we can miss the good things that God is doing. We get irritated and upset by what others are doing instead of asking if this is God's plan. 

When the chief priests and the Pharisees heard Jesus' parables, they knew he was talking about them. They looked for a way to arrest him, but they were afraid of the crowd because the people held that he was a prophet.

Matthew 21:45‭-‬46 NIV

 Jesus spoke harshly against these religious leaders. They feared men more than God and hindered God's plans. I know that the fear of man is hard to overcome. Lord Jesus, help me to fear you above others! I want to please you first and put you first and honor you first! 

http://bible.com/111/mat.21.10-46.NIV

Matthew 20 - Esther

The verse that stood out from today's reading.

"Be like the Son of Man. He did not come to be served. Instead, he came to serve others. He came to give his life as the price for setting many people free." -Matthew 20:28

Matthew 19 - Esther

One of my favorite verses of all time.

"With God, all things are possible." - Matthew 19:26

Matthew 19 - Jason

I like to read about the rich young ruler even though this story does not end well for him. He came to Jesus asking how he can be saved, but it seems like he was not interested in actually finding out how to do it. Or he was not willing to do whatever it takes to enter the Kingdom of God. The Lord told him to go and sell his possessions and give them to the poor, which seems like a hard thing to do--but Jesus said that the young man can come and follow him and that he will have riches in heaven! Did the young ruler not believe what Jesus said? Did he doubt the payoff that would come from obeying Jesus' instructions? I do not want to respond like this young man. I feel like I have more wealth than many people, but I still do not consider myself rich. But no matter what, I know that it is impossible for me to be saved without God's grace and His mercy on my life. I am willing to do whatever it takes to follow Jesus, and I don't want to let anything stand between me and God. Lord God, please help to see and know what my next steps are in following you and give me the courage to do it even if it seems scary or impossible to me.

Matthew 19 - Nathanael

Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."  When he had placed his hands on them, he went on from there. 

Matthew 19:14‭-‬15

Jesus loved children and loved to bless them. I  that society children were not esteemed but Jesus lived and valued people of all ages. Children also model humility and dependence on God by their nature. 

 "All these I have kept," the young man said. "What do I still lack?"  Jesus answered, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me."

Matthew 19:20‭-‬21 NIV

On of my favorite interactions that Jesus has. He always is leading people to a heart relationship with God as opposed to an external one. The man had completed the external regulations but his heart was tied to his money. Jesus loved him and wanted more for him than empty tradition. He wanted a real life relationship  four him with the God of the universe who loves him and wants to be his father! 

http://bible.com/111/mat.19.14-21.NIV

Matthew 18 - Jason

I was touched by verses 33-35: "And should not you have had mercy on your fellow servant as I had mercy on you? And in anger his master delivered him to the jailers, until he should pay all his debt. So also my heavenly Father will do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother from your heart."

I am reminded that God wants me to be forgiving towards all people who I feel have harmed me. I should remember the great mercy that God has had on me--that Jesus died in my place to pay for all my sins and rebellion. I want to remember what God did for me enough that I can give similar mercy towards others who do not owe nearly as much as I do to the Lord.

Matthew 18 - Nathanael

Whoever then humbles himself as this child, he is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.  And whoever receives one such child in My name receives Me;  but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to stumble, it would be better for him to have a heavy millstone hung around his neck, and to be drowned in the depth of the sea.

Matthew 18:4‭-‬6 NASB

Jesus is constantly challenging and changing the status quo in so many areas. Here he challenges the concept of greatness. His disciples asked who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. The normal expectation is the "important" or famous persons. Perhaps the religious leaders or most powerful or richest person. Today we'd think the pastor of the largest church or the famous Christian author or singer. 

Butt Jesus says that it is the humble one, the one like the child.

In the kingdom of God the measures of what is good and important is totally different from three world we live in! 

Father, change my heart and mind to be oriented to what you say is important! 

http://bible.com/100/mat.18.4-6.NASB

Matthew 18 - Esther

The verse that stood out from this morning.

"Anyone who becomes as free of pride as this child is the most important in the kingdom of heaven." -Matthew 18:4

Matthew 17 - Jason

Jesus had said that in Chapter 16 verse 28 that some of his disciples would not die before they see Him coming in His kingdom. Now in Chapter 17 he took Peter, James, and John up the mountain to witness his transfiguration. The Scripture says that Jesus emptied himself of his power as God and his glory to live as a human being on the earth. He made himself nothing and took the position of a servant. But here, he is putting on or revealing his godly glory to his closest disciples who already believed in him as the Messiah, but this was yet a new look at who He is. They were terrified again to realize who they were with. Sometimes I wonder how I would respond if I met the Lord face to face like this. I ask the Lord to speak to me each day, and I believe that he does speak to my spirit through the Holy Spirit. I do not hear his voice audibly, and I do not see his glory. I wonder how scared I would be or what I would feel to be in his presence like that. I choose to trust in Jesus, and I ask God for forgiveness and mercy for all of my sins and unrighteousness. I trust that he cleanses me because of what Jesus did for me on the cross. I pray that I will continue to be grateful and humbled and obedient to God--loving Him and serving Him in response to what he has done for me.

Matthew 17 - Esther

The verse that stood out from the reading.

"Because your faith is much too small. What I'm about to tell you is true. If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, it is enough. You can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there.' And it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."

Matthew 17 - Nathanael

And Jesus rebuked him, and the demon came out of him, and the boy was cured at once.  Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, "Why could we not drive it out?" And He said to them, "Because of the littleness of your faith; for truly I say to you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move; and nothing will be impossible to you.

Matthew 17:18‭-‬20 NASB

Jesus spoke and acted with great authority and full faith. I think I'm often like the disciples and ask why can't I drive it out, or see this miracle happen?

And I think the answer to me is the same: because of the littleness of your faith. 

So I pray, "Father God, increase my faith!"

http://bible.com/100/mat.17.18-20.NASB

Mathew 16 - Jason

I thought it was interesting that Peter knew that Jesus is the Messiah because the Lord spoke to him and showed him this truth. I think that is the same way that I and other believers truly become saved is when God reveals Jesus to us.

It is also interesting that in almost the same breath, Peter listens to the devil who says that Jesus should not be crucified. Peter even took Jesus aside to rebuke him in front of the other disciples. So I should not think that just because I am saved and the Lord shows me things that I am immune to influence from the devil. I need to test what I hear and see if it is God speaking to me or not? Am I allying myself with God and surrendering all of my life and decisions to Him? I want to do this, and I choose to do it each day.

Matthew 16 - Esther

Jesus tells about his coming death from verses 21 through 28.

The verse that stood out from verse 24, "If anyone wants to follow me, he must say no to himself. He must pick up his cross and follow me."

Matthew 16 - Nathanael

Then Jesus said to his disciples, "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.  For whoever wants to save their life  will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.  What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?

Matthew 16:24‭-‬26 NIV

Jesus gives us a high calling and a challenging call. We are generally more quick to want to follow Jesus than to take up our cross and lose our life.

Most of the time we are I  the opposite mode: we want to feed ourselves and give ourselves what we want and desire; we want to preserve our lives and avoid suffering or difficulty. But Jesus says that behaviour and attitude will actually cause us to lose our life. 

Jesus give me the courage to see life in the correct way and to lose my life now to save it for eternity! 

http://bible.com/111/mat.16.24-26.NIV

Matthew 15 - Jason

Jesus said that it is not what goes into a person's mouth that makes them unclean, but it is what comes out of a person's mouth that defiles them. Jesus said that our heart's are where sin comes from--the evil thoughts, hateful words, sexual thoughts and actions outside of marriage, and other such things. Sometimes I worry more about outward religious disciplines like reading and praying each day, and not watching certain things, but I need to recognize that I'm still a sinner and in need of Jesus too. The rebellious thoughts and words that tear others down, and sexual thoughts are not part of a holy lifestyle, and I choose to stop these things, but I need the Lord's help, and I still need His mercy and forgiveness. I don't want to be like the Pharisees who thought they were righteous because of their meticulous religious practices. Jesus said that my righteousness needs to exceed that of the Pharisees. The only way that I can do that is through God;s saving grace. He gives me righteousness as I trust in Him completely and come to Him as my help and my Savior.

Matthew 15 - Esther

The section that stood out from this morning was from verses 21 through 28.

The woman fell to her knees and cried out for help in front of Jesus moved me. Because of her great faith, she will be given what she is asking for. It is amazing and great to see that her daughter was healed at that very moment. I encourage for myself and others to have great faith in the Lord and cry out to Lord in any help.

Matthew 15 - Nathanael

Then the disciples came to him and asked, "Do you know that the Pharisees were offended when they heard this?"  

Matthew 15:12

Jesus didn't worry that these people, the religious leaders, would be offended by what he said. That is true for his family and people in general. While his goal wasn't to offend, he would speak the truth and let the chips fall as they may. Generally those he would be stern with are those who opposed his work that God called him to do. 

But the things that come out of a person's mouth come from the heart, and these defile them.  For out of the heart come evil thoughts—murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander.  These are what defile a person; but eating with unwashed hands does not defile them."

Matthew 15:18‭-‬20 NIV

Our hearts are the source of evil that corrupt and defile us. The good news is that Jesus is in the business of changing hearts! 

http://bible.com/111/mat.15.12-20.NIV

Matthew 14 - Esther

From verses 13 through 21 where Jesus feeds the five thousand, the Son of Man does many miracles that are amazing. It was tough for me to picture when I was young about the event where Jesus feeds the five thousand. I truly believe that Jesus can do so many things that are way beyond our imagination and ideas. I encourage everyone to pray and believe in Him.

Matthew 14 - Jason

It is surprising that John the Baptist died the way he did. It seems like he died very young and he had so much to live for. At the same time I was reminded that he had a specific purpose in his life--he was the messenger of God crying out in the wilderness, "Prepare the way of the Lord!" He fulfilled this purpose for which the Lord created him. And he glorified God in his stand against Herod's adultery. He confronted the sin of Herod and gave him an opportunity to repent. Instead John was put in jail, which may also happen to us if we are in an oppressed society and powerful people want us out of their way. I want to be willing to endure suffering in this world for the sake of doing what's right and loving God and his ways completely. I don't want to be afraid of people and what they might do to me if I stand up for what God says.

Matthew 14 - Nathanael

Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?"   And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, "Truly you are the Son of God."

Matthew 14:31‭-‬33 NIV

Jesus calls us to follow him just as he called Peter. At times he calls us out onto the water - the place of amazing power and grace, and yet a place that causes us fear and doubt.

It is interesting here that Peter asked Jesus to call him out on the water.

That tells me two things: 1) Peter thought he would be able to make it if Jesus was with him 2) we can ask God to bring us into those places of miracles and his presence. 

The corollary to part 1 is that we also often have a higher assessment of our faith than is actual. We think that we can and would follow Jesus in any situation only to find out that in the middle of it we become afraid. Like Peter we lose our focus on Jesus and see all of the problems around us. 

Lord Jesus, help us keep our eyes on you! Build up or faith and trust in you so we can see and experience more of your great power and love! 

http://bible.com/111/mat.14.31-33.NIV

Matthew 13 - Nathanael

The parable of the weeds is one of those that is easy to comprehend at some level but tricky at another level.  I often want to compare the field to the church, but Jesus clearly says that the field is the world.  Also, just like the people in the parable, my tendency would be to pull out the weeds earlier than later, but that would endanger some of the wheat.  So I must learn patience and wait for God's perfect timing!

Also, verse 58 is a sobering statement: And he did not do many miracles there because of their lack of faith.

Lord Jesus, give me more faith so that I can see more of your miracles at work!

Matthew 13 - Esther

The verses that stood out from this morning.

"The good seed stands for the people who belongs to the kingdom. The weeds are the people who belong to the evil one." - Matthew 13: 38

I pray that everyone of us will be good seed that we will bear good plants and fruits. Even though there will be branching that will be hurtful but God will help us to bear more fruits.

Matthew 13 - Jason

The parable of the sower is so good. When I read it I have to ask myself what kind of soil my heart has. Am I listening and understanding the word of God? Or am I allowing something in this world to distract me or pull me away from what God wants me to do? I try to focus when I read, but sometimes my mind wanders to something else, or I try to finish the reading as part of a religious duty rather than meditate on it and spend time with God. If I let something distract me and don't do anything with what I read from the Scripture then it would be better for me to not read. I should take responsibility for what the Lord is showing me with his word, and put his teaching into practice and grow spiritually.

Matthew 12 - Esther

The verses that stood out from today from Matthew 12: 31 - 32.

"So here is what I tell you. Every sin and every word spoken again God will be forgiven. But speaking evil things against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven. Anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven. But anyone who speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven. A person like that won't be forgiven either now or in days to come."

These words encourage me to keep praying for myself and others that the Holy Spirit will speak and guide us. 

Matthew 12 - Jason

Jesus emphasized the importance of spiritual relationships over natural family when he said, "Here are my mother and my brothers! For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother." I think I still struggle with finding the right balance between spending time with family members and having closer fellowship with people who are following God together in the church. I think that many of my family members are believers, but sometimes we have disagreements, and I want to be able to stand up for what God wants me to do instead of being swayed by family. In this Scripture it seems like Jesus' family had come to interrupt his teaching and ministry work. But God had a different plan and Jesus did not go with them. I still feel a strong attachment to my family members, and it is hard to say no or not go along with them at times if they are wanting me to do something.

Matthew 11 - Jason

I was thinking when I read verses 20-24, what is it about the people in some cities that they do not repent when they see Jesus and his miracles and teaching? What is it in the other cities he mentions that does make them repent? Like Sidon and Tyre, Sodom and Gomorrah? Why would they repent in dust and ashes while the other cities do not?

I want to see the miracles of God more and more and receive his teaching and continue to repent and be changed by Him. I do not want to be like these hard-hearted cities that see the Lord and all he does and then just go about my life however I want.

I also want to come to Jesus and take his yoke on me--I want to learn his ways and live in obedience to him. He promises to be with and give rest to my soul if I will do this consistently. Thank you Lord for your words, miracles, and your mercy!

Matthew 11 - Nathanael

And you, Capernaum, will you be lifted to the heavens? No, you will go down to Hades.  For if the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Sodom, it would have remained to this day.  But I tell you that it will be more bearable for Sodom on the day of judgment than for you."    

Matthew 11:23‭-‬24

Jesus lived in Capernaum so they saw many miracles and heard much teaching. But still many from Capernaum didn't believe and Jesus said it will be bad for them at judgement time. I think that in the U.S. we are in the same situation. 

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

Matthew 11:‬28‭-‬30 NIV

Thank you Jesus that you desire to give us rest and relieve our burdens! Help us to trust you and find your rest! 

http://bible.com/111/mat.11.23-30.NIV

Matthew 10 - Jason

Jesus gave his disciples many words of encouragement and instructions in this chapter as he sent them out to preach to the lost souls of Israel. He gave them authority to do all the miracles that he had been doing and showing them along the way! I was touched by the verses where Jesus instructs them to not be afraid. He said "everyone who acknowledges me before men, I will also acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven, but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven." On the one hand, I feel encouraged by this verse because that I have said to others that I am a Christian and have stood up for what I believe God wants me to do at times. However, I think that there were times that I was afraid to say that I am Christian, or I did not say what God wanted me to say at other times. Sometimes I do let fear stop me from doing certain things--but I choose to go forward, and I want to stand up for God in any situation. I don't want to be afraid of people or let fear stop me from doing what's right.

Matthew 10 - Nathanael

Again a very interesting chaptwr as Jesus sends out his disciples on their first ministry trip.

Jesus called his twelve disciples to him and gave them authority to drive out impure spirits and to heal every disease and sickness.   

Matthew 10:1

When i read this it is very exciting and i think "i wish that i was there to experience that!" But then I remember that Jesus had given us his Holy Spirit  and had sent us out! 

"I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.  

Matthew 10:16

A call to wisdom. Too often I can be naive and think the best for people but I need the wisdom of God I  how to proceed.

But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say,

Matthew 10:19

It was not "if" they arrest you but "when".

Persecution is part of the package. 

   "The student is not above the teacher, nor a servant above his master.  It is enough for students to be like their teachers, and servants like their masters. If the head of the house has been called Beelzebul, how much more the members of his household!   

Matthew 10:24-25

We will also bee called evil and of the devil - this usually religious people.

And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered.  So don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.   

Thank you Jesus that you love us so much and that you know every part of us! 

 "Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven.  But whoever disowns me before others, I will disown before my Father in heaven.  

Matthew 10:30-33

A sobering reminder not to give way to fear

 And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward."

Matthew 10:42 NIV

I want God's reward. This reminds me to accept and honor people for who they are in Christ! 

http://bible.com/111/mat.10.1-42.NIV

Matthew 9 - Wun-gwi

In matthew 9, Jesus showed lots of good things like healing, calming storm, etc.

However, the workers for harvesting is a few.(V35)

That is the major reason why Jesus had displeships arround him- to be sent out to spread gospel.

We all are daily ambassador of Jesus sent to this world. I want to do my job well!

Matthew 9 - Nathanael

Each chapter in Matthew is so loaded with amazing teaching and/or amazing accounts of the miracles that Jesus did.

On hearing this, Jesus said, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick.  But go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.'  For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners."   

Matthew 9:12‭-‬13

This is quite powerful and speaks to me and other believers. We often think/feel that there are some people who aren't the "right kind" for us to speak to about Jesus. Perhaps a homeless person or a druggie or a criminal or anyone who we might be afraid of or uncomfortable around. But Jesus died for all men and women and desires that all be saved.

Jesus, help us to see those around us with the eyes that you see people with - eyes of mercy, compassion and love.

When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.  Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field."

Matthew 9:‬36‭-‬38 NIV

Again Jesus saw the huge need of broken and hurting souls all around him. He offered help and life to them.  It is amazing how God honors us by allowing and wanting us to be a part of his plan of reaching out and helping this broken world and introducing them to the love of God. It is amazingly good news! 

http://bible.com/111/mat.9.12-38.NIV

Matthew 8 - Nathanael

Matthew 5 through 7 were chapters were we saw the amazing and profound teaching of Jesus. Now in chapter 8 we are seeing the amazing miracles - From healing, to driving out demons, to controlling the weather!

When Jesus heard this, he was amazed and said to those following him, "Truly I tell you, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith.  

Matthew 8:10

Here Jesus heals remotely and we see great faith in a foreign soldier.

When evening came, many who were demon-possessed were brought to him, and he drove out the spirits with a word and healed all the sick. This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah: "He took up our infirmities and bore our diseases."   

The men were amazed and asked, "What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey him!"

Matthew 8:10‭, ‬16‭-‬17‭, ‬27 NIV

http://bible.com/111/mat.8.10-27.NIV

Matthew 8 - Jason

This chapter was really amazing to read all the sections together because there were many people coming to Jesus with all kinds of problems and yet they knew that the Lord could heal them. The leper knew that Jesus could heal him, but he wasn't sure that God would want to heal him. The centurion knew that Jesus could heal his servant just by speaking the word, and many people came to where Jesus was so he would pray for them to be healed of diseases and demon oppression. When they sailed across the Sea of Galilee, it says that two demon possessed men ran up to him and were pleading for help--but the demons were asking Jesus for mercy. Jesus caused the demons to come out of the men and gave them permission to go into some nearby pigs. Yet the disciples who were closest to Jesus seemed to have the least faith in him because when he calmed the storm on the sea by speaking to nature, they could not understand who he was. They did ask for Jesus to save them, but maybe they did not really think that he could do it. I want to ask God for help like the other people who knew the authority that he has over everything and his ability and willingness to heal any and all problems and situations! Lord God, thank you for your love, wisdom, and power over all creation.

Matthew 7- Wun-gwi

²¹ "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.

This verse told me to the importance of doing the will of God in our life and it reminded me another strong statement in James 2:26

²⁶ As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.

I pray that I will do the actions God want me to do this week!

Matthew 7 - Nathanael

Wow! Matthew 7 is just loaded with so many amazing and important teachings! 

I think that the last two verses of the chapter sum it up perfectly: 

When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching, because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law.

Matthew 7:28-29

Some key verses that stand out to me are here: 

If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!  

Matthew 7:11

I love this verse because it shows us clearly the live that God has for us. He is a loving father who gives good gifts - much more than we would give add parents! 

So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.   

Matthew 7:12

The golden rule! So simple yet profound, easy for any to understand yet so all encompassing!

 "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 

Matthew 7:21

 ‭A word of warning that we all need to hear - the words we say aren't the key but what we do. 

Thank you Jesus for your love and amazing wisdom! 

http://bible.com/111/mat.7.11-29.NIV

Matthew 6 - Wun-gwi

 "Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.

God is keep talking to me over this chapter that I need to focus on the relationship between God and me. Not the treasures in this world; reputation/ power/ money.

Then I don't have to worry about living in this world as God will take care of everything I need.  

 

Matthew 6 - Nathanael

The sermon on the mount is quite amazing in the depth and breadth of teaching. Jesus not only establishes a new moral framework but does so with a practicality that all can understand. 

"Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.

 One concept he lays out is to have a righteousness based on a relationship with God as opposed to something to build our reputation with others. He pushes us to know and love God first and foremost. 

This then impacts not just how we worship God but also how we interact with others and how we view and use or possessions and our money, and how we approach life in general. 

 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Matthew 6:1‭, ‬21 NIV

http://bible.com/111/mat.6.1-21.NIV