Matthew 11
-Jesus explains to John’s disciples that were sent by him
how there were many proofs that He indeed was the Expected One (the Messiah).
Jesus quotes Isaiah 35:5 and Isaiah 61:1 as evidence of His authenticity. He
tells the crowd that “blessed is he who does not take offense at Me (Matthew
11:7, Luke 7:23).” Then as John’s disciples were going away He expounds on the
ministry of John and his role, which was more than a prophet in the spirit of
Elijah (Malachi 3:1). John prepared the way before Christ in leading the
willing and believing to repentance from their sins and faith in the Messiah.
However, Jesus addressed the unbelief of the Pharisees of that generation in a
poignant way (Matthew 11:16-19, Luke 7:30-35). The unbelieving are presented
the radical holiness and self-denying example of John and the inclusive nature
of the Christ, yet they rejected both. This is the point Jesus made with His
analogy to the flute with no dancing and the dirge with no mourning (Matthew
11:17, Luke 7:32). Jesus said in the end that wisdom is vindicated by her deeds
(Matthew 11:19) and children (Luke 7:35). *Application*
Again we see the fruitful consequences of inner change when Christ comes in and
changes a person because of their humility, faith, and willingness to be transformed.
Today, do not harden your heart and make excuses, false rationalizations, or
complaints that will keep you from His wisdom and truth. God presents His truth
in a variety of ways to appeal to each and every individual. See His evidence!
-After pronouncing judgment on Chorazin, Bethsaida, and
Capernaum for their unbelief and lack of repentance in their worldly wisdom and
intelligence, God pronounces peace and rest to the infant-like trusting
faithful who accept the true way of the LORD (Matthew 11:20-26). All things
have been handed over to the Christ (Anointed, Messiah) by the Father and they
are in complete unison (harmony, accord). Jesus is revealing the Father and
inviting all who are weary and heavy-laden to come to Him for rest for the soul
by taking on His yoke, which is gentle, humble in heart, easy, and light
(Matthew 11:27-30). *Application* A
yoke is a means to guide and control a farm animal into a specific destination
and purpose. This is what the Lord wants to do with us in our lives as well
(Jeremiah 29:11-13). His righteous is what we need. His yoke is not burdensome
or too hard. It is simple with everlasting blessings as a result. Take His yoke
upon you and enjoy what He gives!
Verses to Memorize:
Matthew 11:11, 28-30
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