Matthew 9, 12, Mark 2-3, Luke 5-6, and John 5
For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and acknowledgment of God rather than burnt offerings. Hosea 6:6, Matthew 9:13, 12:7
Day 296 of my chronological study of the Bible with The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®) (available by purchase through Amazon - author F. LaGard Smith) continues as I move further into the New Testament - focusing this morning on growing opposition to Jesus' ministry. My commentary notes: "[b]y indicating that he has the divine authority to forgive sins, Jesus naturally arouses immediate reaction from the Scribes and Pharisees. Since they correctly believe that only God can forgive sins, they reject the possibility that Jesus himself is divine and conclude instead that he is guilty of blasphemy....Through two parables Jesus tells them that their system of legalistic observances simply will not substitute for the true righteousness which God has always demanded....Despite growing opposition, Jesus continues to go about teaching and performing miracles, yet almost consciously without fanfare. As if to underscore the urgency of his mission in the face of opposition, Jesus appoints 12 of his disciples as specially chosen apostles to aid him in his ministry. With their added support, Jesus continues to attract even greater crowds from among the common people."
*Smith, F. LaGard. The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®). Harvest House Publishers. Kindle Edition.
Whatever its form may be, all believers will face opposition to some degree and some of this opposition may be harsh and harmful - even physical harm for some. I think of those in places around the globe (see ministry Voices of the Martyrs ministry) where belief in Christ is unlawful and believers in these places face imprisonment or death. Most of us, particularly those in the USA are not likely to face such opposition, we nonetheless should be prepared to stand firm in our faith and to defend it. In Jesus' day, the Pharisees and teachers of the law focused on ceremonial law (vs moral law) and external behavior consistent with this law. Jesus wants our hearts and lives to reflect a love of the Lord (heart condition).
Once we begin to live a life that reflects a love of the Lord - an inner heart condition - we begin to develop mechanisms to defend our faith as we trust in God above all. Jesus relies on scripture as an example to defend His faith. We must also do the same.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who has transformed my heart and life and I am grateful for the many blessings You pour out for me. You protect me and give me freedom to express my faith. Thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of these blessings. My sin is great...and daily...including worry, gossip, etc. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
