Bible Study Notes in Matthew- Chapter 12

Matthew 12

-The beginning account in this chapter finds the disciples hungry on a Sabbath in grainfields, where they decide it to be appropriate to pick the heads of grain and eat. The Pharisees observed this and began to question the Christ on matters of the traditional law of the Jews pertaining to working on the Sabbath. Jesus makes a theological point with them as to Who the Lord of the Sabbath is from the Old Testament Scriptures concerning David of his episode in the eating the consecrated bread in the House of God (1 Samuel 21:6), as well as the custom of the priests in the Temple. He proclaimed that something greater than the Temple was amongst them, and then scolded them to know what it means concerning the fact that God desires “compassion, and not sacrifice” pertaining to innocence (Hosea 6:6). Then He declared the Son of Man (referring to Himself) as the “Lord of the Sabbath (Matthew 12:1-8).” He then proceeded to heal a man with a withered hand on the Sabbath with the point of doing good is always lawful no matter what day of the week it is (Matthew 12:9-13). At this point the Pharisees went out and conspired against Him for destruction (Matthew 12:14).

-*Application* While we are to honor the Sabbath and keep it a holy, set-apart day for the LORD, the fact that we can do things out of the ordinary and routine to be a blessing and take care of essential needs is also acceptable unto the LORD. The problem with the Pharisees, and can be us as well, was the fact that they had substituted religious ritual for doing the compassionate work of the Kingdom as the need presented itself. Do the righteous work of the Savior no matter what day of the week it is.

-After the warning that Jesus made to fulfill the prophecy of Isaiah and His public withdraw from any perception of worldly power, the Lord healed a demon-possessed man that was blind and mute when he was brought before Him. The Pharisees and pious Jews were denouncing that He could possibly be the Son of David (i.e.-the All-powerful Messiah of the LORD) calling Jesus Beelzebul (literally lord of the flies, dunghill god, a derogatory term to Jewish people) trying to say that He was demonic and satanic. Jesus knew their thoughts (proof of His deity, wisdom, and observation skills) and refuted their false claims. A house divided against itself will fail and fall. It is only by a stronger force, the Strong Man, that evil is conquered and vanquished. It makes no logical sense for Satan to fight against his own schemes and devices. Jesus says if He casts out demons by the Spirit of God, then the Kingdom of God has come upon them (Matthew 12:15-28, Luke 11:20).

-*Application* The Pharisees and unbelievers will make every excuse not to accept the things of God even when they are presented in factual and rational form. Keep using wisdom in our own contention for the faith that the Lord by His Spirit will give us even as Christ did. He will give us the answers to every critic, so don’t ever be anxious (Luke 12:11-12, 2 Corinthians 5:12, Jude 1:3). If they accused Jesus, they will also accuse us. Prepare in prayer, then walk by the Spirit.

-The Lord tells them that if they are not for Him, they are against Him making them enemies of God and scattering His flock. He then proceeded to give them instruction of the concept of blasphemy of the Holy Spirit. They could speak against Him all they wanted to, but the real issue was the spirit they were speaking with. If they denied the Holy Spirit, Who was sent by the Father as a testimony on behalf of the Son, there was no eternal hope for people that chose in this manner. Jesus was getting to the root of their faith as they rejected what the LORD was doing right before their eyes through His Messiah. They were obviously bad fruit as they spoke from their hearts. In fact, “every careless word that people speak, they shall give an accounting for it in the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned (Matthew 12:30-37).”

-*Application* There is incredible power in the spoken word. God has the power to speak everything into existence and make nature obey. We see this displayed all through the Scriptures. We also have power in the tongue and cannot hope to contain it when our hearts are full of evil (James 3:5-12). Literally, the power of life and death are in the tongue (Proverbs 18:21). Therefore, the questions ensue: What kind of heart do we have? Is life springing from our heart to our mouth because God has control? Are we using God’s abiding wisdom? Or, are we blaspheming (denying, slandering, saying He is not what He actually is) the Holy Spirit? There remains no hope for us when we argue against God’s truth. Confession of the Christ is essential to salvation, which can only come through our obedience to the work of the Holy Spirit as He draws us into truthful faith (John 14:6; 15:26; 16:13, Romans 10:9-10, Ephesians 2:8-9).

-More than once Jesus gives the wicked and adulterous generation of scribes and Pharisees, who will be condemned at the judgment, a peak into His crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. He compares them with Gentiles from Nineveh in the North and Sheba in the South, who believed when they saw lesser workings and preachings of the LORD and His glory, even seeking it out with long journeys (Luke 11:31-32). Something greater was among them in Jesus Christ the Messiah, yet they could not see His truth because of their hardened hearts drenched in unbelief. They were simply there to test Him and had no intentions of becoming converts to the Kingdom of God (Mark 8:11). They were argumentative and skeptical in His presence rather than reverent and receptive. This had to agitate the King of Glory as He gave His only sign to them with a deep sigh in His Spirit (Matthew 12:38-42, Mark 8:12).

-*Application* God knows our hearts and desperately wants us to know Him intimately. The irony here is that Jesus is giving them the greatest sign the world has ever seen in His miraculous resurrection, yet they totally missed it. Make sure we don’t miss it. God is calling for us to redemption. Please respond by believing in what He has done. He has given us the sign that He is eternal and can give us eternal life with Him.

-An interesting look into the spiritual world occurs in next three verses. The Lord teaches here that when an unclean spirit goes out of a person, it goes through arid-dry-waterless places (the dessert is always a symbolic place of suffering because of evil and temptation in the Bible, compare this to the Living Water of Christ Jesus, John 4:13-15;7:37-39) seeking a place to rest but not finding anywhere to do that. Upon the realization of this quandary, the unclean spirit will attempt to come back to its original host with seven other, and more wicked, spirits to “go in and live” making the last state of that person worse than they began. Jesus makes this comparison to “this evil generation (Matthew 12:43-45).”

-*Application* Key words here to interpret the passage are “unoccupied (scholazō- empty, vacant), swept (saroō- brushed off), and put in order (kosmeō- adorned, decorated, trimmed, ornamented),” when considering the condition of the person who is susceptible to having more problems than they started with regards to demonic activity. There is a fake-façade because of pride to the faux cleaning going on here with the religious people that Jesus was speaking to, and this can be the same with us in our culture. Times have not changed in the way that the spiritual world works. Any of us who struggle with addictions, strongholds, and perpetual problems can identify. If we do not turn the entire situation over to God for His cleansing, the demons may leave for a bit but return with more vigor, power, and sheer numbers. In other words, we cannot clean ourselves up without the redeeming power and filling of the Holy Spirit. Self-help does not work long-term. Transformation is the key ingredient to overcoming permanently. This is why no drug, meditation on false doctrine or religions, or any other self-motivated system is going to work. The cross draws us to die to ourselves. Only then can God resurrect us and make us brand new as a spiritual creation in His image with total victory (Romans 8:1-4, 2 Corinthians 5:17). This is the message of the gospel, the good news. Anyone trying to do it themselves are doomed. Just because we clean up the outside appearances and seemingly have things put in order, does not make us filled. Demons that move around the earth know where they can land and where they can’t. Be filled with the Holy Spirit. Don’t have a vacant soul that is susceptible.

-As this lengthy chapter wraps up, Jesus remarks on true family to those who had gathered to listen to Him speak the words of God, probably in Capernaum. This was not a put-off of His earthly mother and brothers. It was a statement of instruction about the true family of God and how to be a part of that family. Matthew and Mark give us that it requires doing the will of God (Matthew 7:21; 12:46-50, Mark 3:35), while Luke adds that we must hear it and do it (Luke 8:21).

-*Application* We are called the children of God in the Scriptures (1 John 3:1-3). Being a part of this family is a special privilege that changes everything that we are about. This relationship that God graciously bestows upon us purifies, sanctifies, and in the end glorifies us as redeemed of the LORD. We should count our many blessings if we are a part of His Kingdom and then live like the saints we are.

Verse to Memorize: Matthew 12:28, 34, 37

Bible Study Notes in Matthew- Chapter 11

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 11:1-6, 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 11:7-19, 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, we should not harden our heart and make excuses, false rationalizations, or complaints that will keep us from His wisdom and truth. God presents His truth in a variety of ways to appeal to each and every individual. Recognize His abundant 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 in 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 righteousness is what we need. His yoke is never burdensome nor ever too hard when we give Him control in trustful obedience. It is simple with everlasting blessings as a result. Take His yoke and enjoy what He gives freely.

Verses to Memorize: Matthew 11:11, 28-30

Bible Study Notes in Matthew- Chapter 10

Matthew 10

-Jesus gave very specific authority and instructions before sending out His twelve disciples to preach the gospel, implore people to repent, heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, and cast out demons. They were to travel light and receive from the righteous along their journeys. They were told to go everywhere in the land of Israel, but not yet to the Gentiles or any city of the Samaritans (a half Jewish population hated because of mixing with Gentile cultures and pagan worship). Jesus had strong words for them and those they came in contact with, which need to be internalized by us in our own day and age. He warned of the persecution and whole-hearted devotion that was required to be Kingdom workers. The disciples knew that it was a dying to self and a walking in His power and authority that was the key after Jesus taught them. Jesus, recognizing and preparing them for the difficulties they would face in testifying of His goodness and Deity, spoke of endurance and a steadfast spirit, of not giving up or in. He taught them not to fear man, but God, who was the keeper of their souls. They were to be bold in their presentation and confess His Name unashamedly without worry. Soon they would see the power of the Holy Spirit on their lives and feel His continual presence with them, which gives wisdom and grace in each situation (Matthew 10:1-42).

-*Application* Our lives should be modeled around this instruction for our own lives. The disciples were people just like us and had to mature to be all that God wanted them to be. We also can do the same. We must take up our own cross and become strong Christians by faith.

Verses to Memorize: Matthew 10:8, 20, 22, 26, 37-39

Bible Study Notes in Matthew- Chapter 9

Matthew 9

-This chapter revolves around the concept of faith in the Lord to accomplish great and mighty healings and life altering miracles. We see God’s compassion reigning supreme here as Christ’s ministry begins to take full shape. He is the Forgiver of sins, which the religious ones (scribes) falsely called blasphemous, and heals from disease, even a paralytic. From these first eight verses, we see that the Messiah has the power to: 1) forgive sins, 2) read the thoughts of man, 3) heal incurable ailments, and 4) receive awe and glory from people. One interesting thing to note at the end of this section is the testimony that God had given this authority not just to a Man, but “to men,” plural. This foreshadows the coming miracles of believers as they work in the power of the Holy Spirit, just as the Messiah did here in this instance (Matthew 9:1-8).

-*Application* It is important for us to see the more important aspects of our charitable work on this earth. Notice that Jesus addresses the spiritual condition of the paralytic first and foremost. The primary reason that he should take courage, Jesus says, is because his “sins are forgiven.” The Lord wasn’t interested as much in his physical condition as his spiritual state. He did take care of the physical need, but that was secondary. We should approach the good we do for others in the same fashion.

-God calls people to follow Him for advancement in the spiritual growth of the entire world. Right after Jesus had healed the paralytic there in Capernaum, He sees Matthew (Levi) sitting at his tax booth and implores him to come and follow Him. Capernaum was a key military center for Roman troops during this period of history as well as a thriving business community along the northern shores of the Sea of Galilee. Merchants would pass through this area from as far away as Egypt to the south and Mesopotamia to the north. Collecting taxes was a major part of the Roman system and Matthew was a privileged, but despised, part of that collection process. Tax collectors would charge commission on the dues owed the Roman government, and in most cases would accumulate exorbitant compensation for their work. This obviously irritated the local population of Jews since Matthew himself was Jewish but profiting off foreign domination (Zacchaeus was also a tax collector in Jericho, Luke 19:1-9). It was in this context that the Messiah calls Levi to leave everything else behind and come follow Him. Amazingly Levi does this. He leaves behind a lucrative business of shame and becomes a reputable disciple of Jesus Christ. He ends up giving us the gospel of Matthew as an endearing testimony of a life surrendered completely to the King of kings and His Kingdom (Matthew 9:9).

-*Application* When we read of actual events like this one where a successful man in the ways of the world gives up literally everything to follow Christ, what kind of inspiration does that spark in our own soul? When the Lord beckons, we have one of two choices: 1) Leave everything behind and follow Him, or 2) Make excuses and refuse the call of God (putting off a call is saying no to it, God expects immediate compliance). When we hear the voice of the Lord calling us, be like Levi going with Him on the amazing journey of faith.

-Matthew immediately hosted Jesus Christ and His disciples along with other Jews and Pharisees to celebrate his conversion in following after the Lord. The Pharisees made comments about why Jesus would associate Himself with such a sinner and the like, but Christ knew their hearts and addressed them. He proclaimed His mission, that it is the sick who need a physician, not the well. He desires compassion (love, inward change), not sacrifice (outward expression), and Jesus told the religious crowd to “go and learn” what that meant (Hosea 6:6, Matthew 9:10-13). Again, we see the repentance word come up and this was something that the hard-hearted Pharisees were unwilling to see, hear, or understand. They were self-righteous and loved to point out the wrong in others while neglecting their own imperfections. Jesus’ point should have been clear to them that they also needed a change of heart towards the Savior, but unfortunately, they missed it.

-*Application* How often do we commune with those that may be considered outcasts and rejects of the standard church scene? Jesus was not ashamed or afraid to interact with even the most despised members of His society to share the good news of the gospel. How much more should we be noticing and seeking out individuals who God is calling to be a part of His Kingdom?

-Here in this next section we see the disciples of John questioning Jesus about the lack of fasting they observe in His disciples compared to them. Jesus’ response is attended to alert them to His Messianic greatness as a time of celebration and joy, which they were never actually able to perceive. Jesus did maintain that there would come a time for His disciples to fast when the bridegroom is taken away. The Scripture uses this bridegroom analogy often as something that is known is compared to a deep spiritual truth concerning the Kingdom of God. This was the plaroma (the fullness of time) in which God came to be with man in special revelation through the incarnation of His Son (Galatians 4:4, Ephesians 1:10). Special rejoicing and celebration around this monumental event should have been expected if anyone really understood what was going on. Jesus even tried to explain this to these, but they continued to be blind and deaf (Matthew 9:14-15).

-*Application* There is a season for all things. In these seasons of the soul God wants us to react appropriately to every situation. It is His will for us to rejoice always (Philippians 4:4, Ephesians 5:16), but there are times when we should fast and make special efforts in seeking Him. What time is it in our life? Ponder this and act appropriately according to the word of the Holy Spirit.

-Jesus reiterates His point with two more illustrations designed to show how the new in Him had come. This is a precursor to the New Covenant, which He would establish with His blood on the cross of Calvary (Jeremiah 31:31, Luke 22:20, 1 Corinthians 11:25). It was a new day and a new way with the Son of God’s justifying sacrifice for the sins of mankind. Gone would be the old religious system tied up in the traditions that were manmade and cumbersome on the soul of man. Righteousness was now going to be attainable. Those who wanted to cling to the old system would say that it was good enough (Luke 5:39), but they failed to realize that it could never bring salvation and impute the righteousness of God on a person. It only restrained evil by the enforcement of the rigid law that was perfect as far as God gave it, but it proved impossible for man to keep. Therefore, in His mercy and compassion, God gave His only begotten Son to be the substitutionary atonement for our sins (Hebrews 10:1-10). These deep theological truths Jesus spoke in parables, which flew right over the head of most of these hard-hearted hearers (Matthew 9:16-17).

-*Application* The “old wine skin” has become synonymous with traditional manmade systems that have become too rigid and controlled to be of much Kingdom value. When we seek “new wine skin” we are breaking away from the religious spirit into the work of Christ in a freeing and more pliable situation that is commensurate with the Spirit of God. Often this causes tension with those who want to be unyielding and unchanging, but Jesus predicted these things would happen not only back then, but anytime a controlling spirit is present. At times like these it is best to break away and find a new container for our spiritual work. But, always remember to do it God’s way in love and without bitterness or jealousy.

-Matthew gives further evidence of the Lord’s Divine Nature as he relates the instance where Jesus receives the worship of a synagogue official and his request to raise his daughter from death. The man had the faith to come to the Lord asking Him to simply come and lay His Hand on her for resuscitation to life. The Lord got up with His disciples to follow the official, and had another miraculous encounter with a woman, because of faith, who had been suffering from a twelve-year hemorrhage in her body. She believed that if she could just touch His garment, she could become well, and it happened. Afterwards, God arrived at the official’s house to much derision, but performed an incredible miracle of healing in bringing life back into the synagogue official’s daughter. News of this event spread throughout all the land (Matthew 9:18-26). As Jesus was going from there, two blind men followed after Him crying out for mercy to the “Son of David.” The Messiah entered a house when the two came up to Him for healing. Jesus asked if they believed He could do this, and upon hearing their confession of faith, He restored their vision as “their eyes were opened.” He warned them not to spread the news sternly, but they disobeyed, out of sheer joy I’m sure, telling the news about Him throughout the land (Matthew 9:27-31). Next, a demon-possessed man was brought to Him, and the Lord cast it out allowing this mute man to speak. Obviously, this amazed the crowds as to the uniqueness of this Man, but the Pharisees jeered Him as being the ruler of demons to thus have authority over them (Matthew 9:32-34). A point Jesus would refute in other portions of Scripture (Matthew 12:22-30, Mark 3:22-27, Luke 11:14-20). Jesus is seen ending up in the chapter going through all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the Kingdom, and healing every kind of disease and sickness. He felt compassion for the people because they were distressed and dispirited like sheep with no shepherd. He commented to His disciples at this point, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Therefore, beseech the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into His harvest (Matthew 9:35-38).” Prayer then becomes the key in getting the work done of the Kingdom of God.

-*Application* Jesus was astute enough to perceive the real needs of people He ministered to. He was praying for and raising up workers for the harvest of souls relying on the power of God. We should be doing the same things just as He commanded here in this passage. We pray, He sends, He harvests.

Verses to Memorize: Matthew 9:13, 16-17, 35-38

Bible Study Notes in Matthew- Chapter 8

Matthew 8

-We see Christ’s compassion to heal all those who came to Him as He comes down from the mountain with large crowds following Him. We see the supernatural realm and His authority evident as those with demons were restored and set free, leprosy was cured, paralysis healed, and fevers left bodies (Matthew 8:1-17). Christ was fulfilling Isaiah’s prophecy that He would take from us our infirmities (griefs, violent illness, sufferings, torments) and carry away our diseases (Isaiah 53:4).

-*Application* Surely the Lord cares for us in the same exact way He cared for the people He ministered to in Galilee. Come to Jesus with every need and cast it on Him today (1 Peter 5:7). We have a God who responds to our desperate cries for help. Jesus Christ is our release.

-Christ Jesus orders those who wish to follow Him to get into the boat in order to go to the other side of the sea. He was leaving the hustle and bustle of the crowd to go do more ministry where it was needed. There was a scribe there who wanted to go, but Jesus commented on His own lack of a permanent home and His adventurous nature, which was always on the move. Another wanted to go but needed to go and bury his father (earthly concerns over heavenly demands). Jesus’ command was to follow Him. The point was that the physically dead can care for themselves and don’t need any more attention. Jesus was direct with those who wanted to follow Him and tested the real desires of their heart in their areas of weakness (Matthew 8:18-22).

-*Application* The Lord always will demand our complete loyalty and knows when we are not fully surrendered to His will. Following the Lord is no game, it is reality, and it will cost us everything. Christianity is serious business. We must count up the costs of discipleship before we surrender.

-Once upon the sea with the disciples that actually followed Him, Jesus shows Himself as the King over even nature as He calms the raging waters that threatened to make the crew perish. He rebukes their lack of faith in this instance and in the end inspires admiration of His awesome-supernatural deeds (Matthew 8:23-27).

-*Application* This is one of several sea storm accounts in the Bible. The crew with Jonah and one of Paul’s adventures come to my mind. We see over and over again that God has control over the weather and the events that proceed from these acts of nature. They represent the times in our lives when we are desperate and cry out to the Lord for help and salvation. Once again, we see that God responds and is primarily concerned with our ability to trust in Him through the storms, trials, and struggles. Believe, believe, believe. God is our rescue and He wants us to know that.

-East and probably south of the Sea of Galilee Jesus came across a man (Matthew indicates two men) that was possessed by a legion (many) of demons. Their response to the Messiah is noteworthy as they wonder what business they have with one another. They knew the power of the Most High and did not want to have anything to do with Him. They bowed in fear and cowered under His authority, even though they had tormented people in this region for a long time being extremely violent with great strength. At the word of the Lord they had to flee being sent into a herd of swine that stampeded into the sea and drowned (weird eh?). The countrymen that saw and reported this were rightly frightened and asked Christ to depart (Matthew 8:28-34). One of the men who was healed understandably wanted to follow Jesus and His disciples, but Jesus had a different plan for him. He was sent home to his own house and people to tell of the awesome and wonderful things the Savior had done for him (Mark 5:18-20).

-*Application* God has ultimate power in our lives and wants to rid us of anything and everything unclean that is within us. Allow His cleansing flow to infiltrate and wash us completely. Then we will be free to go in peace to anywhere that He desires to send us, even if it is in our own hometown.

Verses to Memorize: Matthew 8:17, 20

Bible Study Notes in Matthew- Chapter 7

Matthew 7

-Jesus points out the fact that often people who are making judgments on others are imperfect themselves and should first do some intensive self-evaluation. Hypocrisy is the issue here and it has many applications in life. For instance, the dad who tells his son not to drink alcohol out with his friends while he himself comes home drunk will have little if any effect in providing a proper standard or role model for his son. This is the point of taking “the log out of your own eye” to see clearly with accurate and just judgment (Matthew 7:5). Further, Jesus speaks of those who we entrust ourselves to in the matters of instruction and judgments. After we have cleaned up our act and can be discerning in offering advice and counsel, it is wise to assess the recipients. Jesus illustrates how we can waste our time and be unjustly persecuted when we offer wisdom to the unholy (dogs) and unrighteous (swine or pigs) (Matthew 7:6). These were unclean animals according to God’s Law and their natural instincts (Deuteronomy 14:8, Proverbs 26:11, 2 Peter 2:22).

-*Application* Jesus is stating that we have to be careful with who we teach and lead. Because if we don’t, it can be very unproductive and even detrimental to us. Instead, entrust our righteous teaching to faithful people who will teach others in an ongoing progression after we have repented and lived in a manner worthy of leadership (2 Timothy 2:2). Only God is the ultimate Judge, and we should be ultra-careful to point people in His righteousness knowing that we are imperfect and need His cleansing purity, which is only found in Jesus’ atoning sacrifice by His blood.

-The principles of asking, seeking, and knocking are expounded upon here in verses 7-12. If we ask God, seek only Him and knock reverently upon His door, He will make sure that we receive, find, and have the door open (Revelation 3:20). God is good and knows how to give every perfect and righteous gift to mankind (James 1:17). We can place our trust in that fact.

-*Application* This should help us consider how to treat others also. We fulfill the Law and the Prophets when we treat others as we would want them to treat us.

-We see the authority of Jesus with His teaching here in this next section. He is making a distinction between the two ways that mankind can go in life towards his/her eternal destination. God’s way is narrow (not the majority, not popular, Matthew 7:13-14) and must be chosen with accuracy free from deception that the enemy and this world attempt to bring (Matthew 7:15). Jesus claims that we will know the righteous by their fruits (outward manifestations through deeds and works of an inward reality, i.e. “the soul, or heart, of man,’ Matthew 7:16-20). He warns that there are those who profess Christ outwardly, but actually do not “know” Him and therefore practice lawlessness (Matthew 7:23). The will of God is to act in faith on His words for hidden wisdom and the eternal hope in Him (Matthew 7:21, 24). Jesus also spoke of the well spring of life flowing with living water (John 4:14). He alone is the Originator of transformation and this is His point. The inner wellness will produce good fruit in its dispensation (distribution of things, giving out of something). If one is producing bad fruit there is sufficient evidence that the tree is rotten inside and, in reality, not part of God’s Kingdom (in other words saved, righteous, redeemed).  His will is for complete transformation by the Holy Spirit (Romans 12:1-2).

-*Application* We must build our house (life) upon the Rock (Jesus, the firm foundation, 2 Timothy 2:19). His anchor holds and will keep us safe in His security leading us home to be with Him in paradise in the final analysis (Hebrews 6:19). “You will know them by their fruits (Matthew 7:20)” seems to stand in stark contrast to the comment just nineteen verses earlier, “Do not judge so that you will not be judged (Matthew 7:1).” While we are not the ultimate Judge, Jesus tells us that it is ok to be fruit inspectors. This is a warning for our discernment as we do Kingdom work here on this earth. Be careful with whom we align yourselves in our ministry. If things are not being followed according to the Lord’s command, it is perfectly ok to inspect that and deal with it appropriately under God’s direction, supervision, and counsel. God tells us to be observant and notice things that will help us detect false motivations and intrigue (schemes) that are at best carnal and may possibly be totally not of God at all. “Beware of the false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves (Matthew 7:23).”

-Jesus teaches next that the foundation is crucial upon which we build. Christ Jesus is the firm foundation, the Rock, which is stable and can withstand the storms of this life compared to the foolishness of people who build their lives on shifting sand. As Jesus finished these words, the crowds that followed Him were absolutely amazed at His teachings because He spoke with authority, which was totally different from their experience with the religious scribes of their day (Matthew 7:24-29).

-*Application* For this firm foundation to be ours the Lord says we must hear His Word and act on it (Matthew 7:24, Luke 6:47). His Word is true and reliable, able to hold up under any circumstance and trial. We can count on it like we count on the sun coming up tomorrow.

Verses to Memorize: Matthew 7:1, 7-8, 12, 16-21, 23

Bible Study Notes in Matthew- Chapter 6

Matthew 6

-Jesus says it is hypocritical to make a big deal out of your charitable acts of righteous before men. Your reward is in full already when you perform to gain selfish applause and recognition. Hidden giving and prayer are recommended for reward from the Father in Heaven and His good pleasure (Matthew 6:1-6).

-*Application* This again is a heart issue with the Lord in Kingdom living. He knows our deepest motivations and will justly reward on that basis. We should do our righteous acts with pure intentions and secretly if at all possible.

-Forgiveness is a big to the Lord as He teaches further after giving His disciples the model prayer. Our forgiveness from the Father is in a large way dependent on our attitude towards forgiving others who’ve wronged us He tells us and His disciples plainly. Jesus teaches His disciples, and us, how to pray properly before the LORD God. This is not to be a repetitious prayer devoid of meaning and ritualistic. It is a guideline for all the aspects that should be included as we communicate with our Maker. We will see worship, praise, adoration, respect, awe, and fear in the beginning phase. We see a surrender to the Lord’s will and His Kingdom purposes in it on earth as it is in Heaven (notice the struggle this earth has going on with sin and the enemy present). We can see that it is alright to ask for things from the Father for our benefit and well-being. We learn that we must seek forgiveness from the Father as we forgive others in our lives that have wronged us, which includes confession and intercession of all kinds. We conclude that it is wise for us to ask that temptation be taken away from us as we walk the path of life. Lastly, we see that thanksgiving should be a major part of our prayer life as we recognize His greatness, provision, and supreme glory (Matthew 6:7-15).

*Application* When people do us wrong, it gives us the opportunity to learn the precious art of forgiveness. We would never learn the compassion of our Father towards us if we were never mistreated unjustly. Learn the grace gift of forgiveness in life. Reconcile with our brother or sister in the Lord’s way for His favor. Otherwise bitterness will grip and conquer our lives as we continue to live in sin and unforgiveness. Also, we must consider this question. How seriously do we take our prayer life? Coming before God should be consistent, purposeful, meaningful, and effective among other things. Jesus instructed us with all we need for a vibrant prayer walk with Him. Don’t neglect the opportunities we’ve been given. Don’t get too busy for time with God. Remember Him and keep Him close every moment of our day (1 Thessalonians 5:17).

-The next few verses in this section deal with fasting and again the proper manner with inward purity verses exterior expression for full reward from the Father (Matthew 6:16-18). *Application* It is a great discipline to fast and pray with proper focus and attention on God’s will. However, as Jesus points out it can become a prideful exercise when we do it for public recognition and glory. Make sure that our heart is centered on the right things when we fast and pray before the LORD.

-Jesus deals with the essence of the problem of worry in next section of this passage, which is smallness of our faith. Jesus tells His listeners, and us, not to be afraid for the Lord will take care of His most precious possession. His desire is for us all to seek Him first and all these other things of need (and many wants I might add) will be added unto us. Jesus emphasizes giving for the purpose of eternal riches, which can only happen with a heart of love and faith (Matthew 6:19-34, Luke 12:33).

-*Application* Where our treasure is, there will our heart be also (Matthew 6:21). Invest in the things of God’s Kingdom and quit worrying about the mundane things of this earth realizing that God will take care of us. Have the faith that He desires and requires for our ultimate contentment and peace of mind. God is able. Will we simply trust Him?

Verses to Memorize: Matthew 6:3, 9-13, 19-21, 33

Bible Study Notes in Matthew- Chapter 5

Matthew 5

-Jesus lays out important characteristics of the people who will inherit the Kingdom of Heaven that contradict the world’s system of pride and prestige as He sat down on the mountain and taught His disciples that came to Him. The poor in spirit (the broken) are blessed (the experience of hope and joy). Those that mourn (sorrow, repentant, grieving) will be comforted by the God who cares and has compassion. The gentle (humble, meek) will inherit the earth. The ones who hunger and thirst (an unyielding seeking and pursuit of) after righteous will find satisfaction. The ones who display mercy and grace in their lives will also receive the mercy and grace of the LORD. The heart must be pure in order to see God, and peacemakers (not peacekeepers) will be called the sons (or daughters if female) of God. Jesus gives special attention to those who are persecuted for His sake and righteousness. He encourages us to stay in the game and endure because He knows the pain and suffering that it brings when we stand up for Him and obey His commands in this world by faith (Matthew 5:1-12).

-*Application* It is incredibly difficult to follow these beatitudes. In fact it is impossible to achieve these things long term in our flesh (old nature, our natural state) and on our own. We may achieve some success short term, but to have lasting fruits we must receive God’s Holy Spirit (a transformation, a new birth) and walk in His power. This is a way of life that contradicts the natural inclinations and the ways of the majority in this world. This is what transformation is at the core. Soldier on and allow God to do things His way in our life. In the end we shall be blessed beyond measure by our great God and King.

-Next, Jesus uses the analogies of salt and light to urge His followers on the bigger and better things. Salt has the powerful effects of preserving (which was critical in this age of no electricity), flavoring, enhancing safety (as with helping the surface in icy conditions), irritating (as in salt in the wound), getting rid of bad odors, removing stains, restoring minerals, and a host of other things that God has put into this amazing mineral. Jesus says we must remain salty in our walk with Him. He also teaches that we are the light of the world as long as He is in us. No light should hide its illumination. We are to shine our Light, which is Christ, in such a way that others will see our good works and give glory to the proper Source, the Father in Heaven (Matthew 5:13-16).

-*Application* We must remain in Christ to accomplish these supernatural qualities. If His Spirit is in us, then we will be salt and light unto the glory of God. Rely on Him for this transformation, then excel in the energy flow He gives us so that we will never be rendered useless for the Kingdom of Heaven.

-Jesus explains His true intentions to fulfill the Law rather than demolish, or abolish, it. In other words, He supersedes the formality and penalty of the Law because of His atoning sacrifice on the cross. His grace is sufficient (Romans 3:24, 1 Corinthians 15:10, Titus 3:7, 1 Peter 1:2). This grace gives a whole new perspective to the demands and requirements of the Law, which Jesus expounds upon in this section. Grace requires new heart attitudes from within that have pure motives and are virtually unconcerned for the outward manifestation since that will take care of itself. Grace goes deeper and penetrates to the core of our being fulfilling God’s ultimate desire and plan for His creation in love. This is the essence of what Christ was discussing here in this passage. It has application in all the described areas of diversity, but its root is all unified, wrapped up in the commands “love God and love others.” This is the only way to “be perfect,” as our Heavenly Father is perfect (Matthew 5:17-48).

-*Application* When we understand the true meaning of the Law and how it is applied to us for a redemptive purpose with a Savior to cover our transgressions, we can begin to walk free in God’s perfection and be holy even as He is holy (Leviticus 19:2, Matthew 5:48).

Verses to Memorize: Matthew 5:10, 16

Bible Study Notes in Matthew- Chapter 4

Matthew 4

-Immediately after Jesus’ baptism, which was an initiation into His public ministry of sorts, He is led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil for 40 days and nights with every temptation (Luke 4:13). After this period of prayer and fasting He became hungry and had to defend His righteousness against the attacks of the tempter. He used Scripture from the Torah to combat the enemy and his evil schemes designed to take Him down.

-*Application* When Satan comes at us we have to resist him through the Word of God alone and its proper interpretation. Don’t ever try to reason with him; he is crafty, manipulative, and cunning. Instead, rely on what God’s truth has clearly said and walk in His victory (Matthew 4:4,7,10, James 4:7). Don’t let Satan twist the Scriptures on you in an effort to trick and trip you up. Have discernment, study diligently, and call upon the Lord’s wisdom to avoid downfalls. We live on every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God (Deuteronomy 8:3, Matthew 4:4).

-Satan tried to usurp authority by getting Him to bow down and worship. In exchange he offered all the worldly kingdoms and their earthly glory. Nothing compares to the Kingdom of God and His righteousness though (Matthew 4:8-10).

-*Application* We are part of His Kingdom and His glory is radiating through it all the time. It far surpasses anything this world has to offer, so don’t get fool by the “shiny things” (material possessions, power, etc.).

-How awesome it is to realize that after the temptation and struggle the ministering angels were there (Matthew 4:11).

-*Application* We also will be comforted after a time of trial and testing when we endure the struggle through the Spirit’s power. Hang on brother and sister, we will come into marvelous Light (1 Peter 2:9). Yes Lord, yes Lord, yes, yes Lord. Praise Your Name, Jesus.

-Jesus goes in the power of the Holy Spirit back into Galilee as John is taken into custody. He settled in Capernaum on the north side of the Sea of Galilee. The news about Him is spreading and He gains support in Galilee as those who had been in Jerusalem and saw His miracles received Him as a man of God (probably not as the Messiah though). Matthew describes how this too was a fulfillment from the prophecy (Isaiah 9:1-2; 60:1-3). The Lord preaches throughout the Galilee, teaching in the synagogues and everywhere He went, about the gospel of the Kingdom and imploring people to “Repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand (Matthew 4:17).” He calls fishermen to follow Him, namely Andrew, Peter, James, and John. These men left everything behind and immediately followed Him (Matthew 4:12-25).

 *Application* Jesus’ fame and notoriety became contagious in the region of the Galilee. This was a low profile area compared to Judea and allowed the Christ to develop His disciples unhindered from the controversy and political turbulence of the area around Jerusalem. Christ was always led by the Holy Spirit in whatever endeavor the Lord told Him to do. May we likewise be obedient to His promptings and directions through the course of our lives.

Verse to Memorize: Matthew 4:11

Bible Study Notes in Matthew- Chapter 3

Matthew 3

-John came as a voice in the wilderness to make the paths straight for the Lord to come with His grace and truth of salvation. He lived a humble life and simply called out people to repent from their sins so that they could receive forgiveness from the Lord. John was dressed in authentic prophetic garb that harkened back to Elijah (2 Kings 1:8). He ate food that was lawful and had significant meaning (Leviticus 11:22). The locusts were devouring animals, which spoke of the devourer being devoured by the coming Messiah. Wild honey was sweet to the taste as Jesus would be to those who trusted in Him for atonement (Matthew 3:1-4).

-*Application* Becoming aware and admitting our mistakes and problems is the first step to recovery with Christ. Acknowledge where we have gone wrong and receive His mercy in true and genuine Godly sorrow, not just worldly guilt.

-John’s mission and water baptism for repentance was to point out the truth of who Christ Jesus was. People were coming from Jerusalem and all of Judea, even from the district around the Jordan, to hear, repent, and be baptized as an outward manifestation of an inward reality. This change of heart is the turning away from the old ways of a sinful life with the realization that we are broken and need restoration and reconciliation. Jesus was the One who would baptize (immerse, totally occupy, cover something completely and fully) with His Holy Spirit and with fire. The Spirit is the One who comes into us as part of the new covenant as of Pentecost that works His transformation in our lives as we receive Him and His power. The fire aspect is one of Christ’s judgment when we look at the context of the Scripture. He will gather the wheat and burn the chaff (the useless part of the grain, in other words those who reject Him as Savior). Unfortunately, the “Brood of vipers,” who were the religious and curious of the Pharisees and Sadducees often did not truly get the point (Matthew 3:5-12, Luke 3:17).

-*Application* Christ Jesus is the dividing line. What will we do with Him? Accept Him and receive His Spirit forever to be forever changed or reject Him to receive His just consequence of separation from Him and His love. The choice is always ours. His offer is on the table.

-John proclaims Jesus as the Messiah as He comes from Galilee to the Jordan for baptism, which is not for the purpose of repentance but for fulfillment of righteousness (Matthew 3:15). John is hesitant to baptize Jesus knowing that He is greater and is already the Son of God and perfect in all ways, but he consents as Jesus implores him to do the work of this significant moment. The Trinity is in full picture here as the incarnate Son is consecrated by the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove and the voice of God is heard audibly from Heaven (Matthew 3:16-17, Mark 1:10-11, Luke 3:22, John 1:32).

-*Application* Just as John saw and testified that these things were true, and that Jesus was the Son of God, we must also be witnesses of the grace and truth of our Lord’s saving power. Share the message wherever you go.

Verses to Memorize: Matthew 3:16-17

Bible Study Notes in Matthew- Chapter 2

Matthew 2

-The magi see the star in the west from their eastern location and venture toward Bethlehem, which they know from the prophecies (perhaps revealed by Daniel and others in the Babylonian deportation). They arrive in Jerusalem looking for the Child because they have come to worship Him (Matthew 2:2).

-*Application* These were astronomers from a foreign land that came based on previous knowledge somehow to the place where God visited earth. Our God is so good He even places signs in the sky for the entire world to see His plan for the Messiah, who is the Savior. The King is announced in more ways than one.

-The magi from the east came to Jerusalem first and met up with King Herod. He was an apprehensive ruler who was extremely paranoid to anyone who might possibly usurp his authority. He was not the legitimate ruler of Judea because he was not of the house of King David, thus making him insecure at the thought of religious Jews who knew the promises of the Scriptures (2 Samuel 7:8-17). His inquiry with the chief priests, scribes, and magi reveal his fear and suspicion in the matter. He was not the rightful heir to the throne of David in comparison to the Messiah. He was ruthless, as we will see, and had many enemies causing his great paranoia.

-*Application* We see the true wisdom and revelation of the magi here in this passage. They were warned to go back another way to avoid this evil king and they obeyed. We should also heed the warnings God gives us in our lives. He will always provide a way out, or means of escape, when we listen to His voice.

-The magi find the Christ Child in Bethlehem just as was prophesied (Micah 5:2). They come before Him and worship giving gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh (Matthew 2:11). *Application* These gifts from royalty had symbolic meaning as well. Gold symbolized His kingship and worthiness. Frankincense embodied deity. Myrrh was foreshadowing His death on the cross for the sins of mankind. These gifts, some scholars have speculated, were the means for Jesus and His family to escape to Egypt when Herod sent his men to destroy all the children under the age of two in Bethlehem (Matthew 2:16-18). Where God guides, He provides.

-The other item of note from this text is the fact that they came to worship Jesus in a house (Matthew 2:11). This more than likely indicates some significant passing of time between the Messiah’s birth and the visitation of the wise men, contrary to some Nativity scenes we see at Christmas. Jesus could have been as much as two years old at this point based on the age that Herod set for his inquisition (Matthew 2:16).

-An angel again appears to Joseph supernaturally in a dream urging him to get up and immediately leave for Egypt to remain there until further notice. It was made plain that Herod was seeking the Christ Child’s life; therefore, Joseph obediently arose with his wife and the Messiah and departed for Egypt that very night before the sun even came up (Matthew 2:14). They remained there until the death of Herod, which fulfilled Hosea’s prophecy that “Out of Egypt I called my Son (Hosea 11:1).”

-*Application* Here we see Old Testament usage by Matthew to give us a deep understanding and appreciation for prophecy. Just as the New Testament writers viewed the Law and the Prophets in the new revelation light of Jesus Christ, so should we. This is just one example of the shadows of Christ in the ancient texts given for the hope of Israel and the world (Hebrews 8:5; 10:1). Also notice the immediate response of Joseph to obey and get his all-important family out of danger’s way. Again, it is supposed that the gifts of the magi helped to fund this trip and stay in Egypt, which was obviously a foreign land and a new adventure. When God calls, our best response is quick compliance. At times it could even save us our lives.

-Herod’s paranoia and lust for power are revealed in his reaction to the finding out that the magi had deceived (literally mocked, ridiculed, tricked, make a fool of) him (Matthew 2:16). He sends his troops and slew all the male children who were in Bethlehem and all its vicinity from two years and under in fulfillment of Jeremiah’s prophecy (Jeremiah 31:15). The weeping and great mourning heard all the way across the mountainous region to Ramah harkened back even to the days of Rachel, who died during childbirth in this region having her heart set much on children (Genesis 35:16-18).

-*Application* It is terribly sad to think about the cruelty that was inflicted on the innocent children surrounding and in the region of Bethlehem by the tyrant Herod. We must always stand up for injustice and the rights of those who cannot defend themselves. I saw a sticker just yesterday urging the stoppage of abortion in our country. We think to ourselves, “how cruel they must have been back in those days to destroy life so cruelly like that,” but we easily forget the untold millions of lives that have been lost now to abortion in our nation and world. Be a defender of weak and innocent (Psalm 82:3, Proverbs 31:9, Isaiah 1:17). We must value and defend life so far as it depends on us.

-The passing of King Herod was great news for the Messiah’s family. The angel reappeared as promised (Matthew 2:13), and God’s salvation plan was continuing along just as predicted by the prophets of old.

-*Application* God is not slow about His promises as some count slowness, but He is patient and gives multiple chances for people to turn to Him in repentance (2 Peter 3:9). I believe God gave Herod every chance He could and time to come to know Him before his death. God has a plan and purpose for everything in the whole context of this world. He is sovereign and has all understanding. In the “fullness of time” is a great concept to contemplate when we read a verse like this one (Galatians 4:4).

-Joseph is reluctant to go back into Israel because Herod’s son, Archelaus, was now reigning, but God warned him and once again he obeyed the Lord. The family left Egypt and ventured to the region of Galilee and settled back in their original hometown of Nazareth, which once again fulfilled the prophets word that “He shall be called a Nazarene (Isaiah 11:1. The word there is Netzar, which signifies either a branch, or the city of Nazareth; in being raised in that city, he is declared to be that Branch).” This region was much calmer politically than other regions of Israel at the time. Philip was ruling in this region and was much more docile than Archelaus in Judea. Although Joseph was probably under the assumption, from his limited understanding of the Messiah’s life and work, that they would be in or near Jerusalem, God had other plans and somewhat secluded His Son for His upbringing and the bulk of His earthly ministry.

-*Application* Don’t despise the little things (Luke 16:10). Our lives at times can feel mundane, uncomplicated, and even boring. We yearn to do more and dream of extravagance and greatness even in Kingdom work. We must always remember God’s plan is higher than ours, so we need to let Him form and shape us just as He desires. The Messiah’s life is even reflective of that fact when we closely observe the Scriptures. Jesus lived a normal life for all we know until the age of 30 when His public ministry began. The preparation is important; allow the Lord to work in you even on the most normal of days.

Verses to Memorize: Matthew 2:11, 14, 16, 19, 23

Bible Study Notes in Matthew- Chapter 1

Matthew 1

-Matthew begins his focused gospel aimed at the Hebrew people to convince them of the promised Messiah in the person of Jesus Christ with the genealogy of the Savior, fourteen generations from Abraham (the father of the Jewish nation) to King David (the king with the eternal Kingdom promise) and fourteen generations from him to the deportation to Babylon in 586 B.C. and fourteen generations to the Messiah’s birth (Matthew 1:17). This list includes all sorts of characters that God used in the saga of bringing redemption to earth. There are great people of faith in the list like Abraham, Isaac, Ruth, David, and Josiah. There are also some shady characters like Rahab and Tamar along with the evil kings of Manasseh and Abijah. Some were completely ordinary like Hezron, Ram, Nahshon, and Achim.

-*Application* The point is that God works through history in through human failures and triumphs. He is the One superseding with an overarching will that is going to climax in an eternal consummation of victory for His glory along with those who chose Him.

-Matthew now describes the birth story of the Savior beginning with Mary and Joseph’s betrothal. Before they came together in sexual intimacy, Mary was found to be with child by the Holy Spirit. This fulfilled the Isaiah 7:14 prophecy, which Matthew points out (Matthew 1:18, 22). Joseph, when he found out that his fiancé was pregnant, proposed to do a righteous thing and put her away secretly so that she would not be stoned to death according to the Law (Deuteronomy 22:13-21). God had a third option for the situation. He sent an angel in a dream to the righteous Joseph telling him the truth of what was going on and that this Child would be the Savior of people’s sins with the Name of Jesus (Matthew 1:20-21). Joseph awoke and did as the angel of the LORD commanded him, and took Mary as his wife, “but kept her a virgin until she gave birth to a Son, and he called His Name Jesus (Matthew 1:24-25).

-*Application* The prophet Isaiah told us that Christ Jesus would be called Immanuel (God with us). This is the beginning of how He came to be with us. He is still with us today in the Person of His precious Holy Spirit. Thank God that He is “with” us!

Verses to Memorize: Matthew 1:17, 21