BIBLE IN TEN

Matthew 8:1

Tuesday, 25 February 2025
 
When He had come down from the mountain, great multitudes followed Him. Matthew 8:1
 
“And He having come down from the mountain, great crowds – they followed Him” (CG).
 
The previous verse ended Chapter 7. Chapter 8 closes out the event we call the Sermon on the Mount beginning with the words, “And He having come down from the mountain.”
 
The reason for going up the mountain to preach is not stated. All it said as Chapter 5 opened was, “And seeing the multitudes, He went up on a mountain, and when He was seated His disciples came to Him” (Matthew 5:1). It could be that because of the multitudes, He expected more room to preach and still be seen and heard. A level area might be more difficult to speak to so many.
 
In the spot believed to be where the sermon was conducted, today known as the Mount of Beatitudes, the acoustics are said to be well suited to such a discourse. It could also be that teaching in such an area was to give the sense of exaltation of His words. Moses received the law from an elevation on Mount Sinai.
 
When receiving the law, Moses was alone on the mount. On the other hand, while Jesus spoke, He was surrounded by people. In fact, at the giving of the Law of Moses, it said –
 
“You shall set bounds for the people all around, saying, ‘Take heed to yourselves that you do not go up to the mountain or touch its base. Whoever touches the mountain shall surely be put to death. 13 Not a hand shall touch him, but he shall surely be stoned or shot with an arrow; whether man or beast, he shall not live.’ When the trumpet sounds long, they shall come near the mountain.” Exodus 19:12, 13
 
The first account, at the giving of the law, shows the inaccessibility of man to God through the law. On the other hand, the latter account of the Sermon on the Mount demonstrates access to God through Christ’s fulfillment of the law just as He noted He would do in Matthew 5:17.
 
Nothing done by Jesus is without significance, including going up the mountain to speak His words to the disciples and the others who gathered.
 
Understanding this, it next says that “great crowds – they followed Him.” These would certainly include all those descending after the instruction He provided. But it probably would have included many more who heard that His words were astonishing and that He was probably the Messiah. Hence, there would be a great throng following Him.
 
This would then provide a chance for many to witness the events that will next be revealed by Matthew as His narrative continues.
 
Life application: As you read the unfolding events recorded in the gospels, think about why the surrounding words are included in the movements Jesus makes. Why did He go up on a mountain to speak? Why did He immediately come down from the mountain when He was finished? Why will He go to Capernaum instead of another nearby town?
 
Each thing is there for a reason as Jesus’ life and actions form walking parables of what God wants us to see and consider. Just as the land of Israel – its geography, layout, and location in relation to other countries and people groups – is used to teach us spiritual truths, so is the life of Jesus as He interacts with the people in the land.
 
God’s word is precise and filled with details that have importance. Remember this and consider the surrounding events in relation to the rest of Scripture. Hints of the very process of man’s redemption in relation to the dispensations of time are being provided. They will be revealed to those who consider them and align them with the rest of what is recorded in the word.
 
Lord God, what a precious and wonderful word You have given to us. Thank You for the intricate details that are being used to teach us truths about Jesus and His work in relation to the rest of Scripture. Thank You! Thank You, O God for revealing Your heart to us through the revealing of Jesus. Amen.

Matthew 7:29

Monday, 24 February 2025
 
for He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes. Matthew 7:29
 
“For He was teaching them as having authority, and not as the scribes” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, it noted that the people were astonished at Jesus’ teaching. Next, it explains why it was so, saying, “For He was teaching them as having authority.”
 
Of the coming Messiah, Isaiah prophesied –
 
“Who has believed our report?And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?For He shall grow up before Him as a tender plant,And as a root out of dry ground.He has no form or comeliness;And when we see Him,There is no beauty that we should desire Him.” Isaiah 53:1, 2
 
Jesus didn’t come with great looks. We have no idea what His oratory skills were like, meaning the eloquence of the delivery of His messages. However, the content of what He said stunned those who listened to Him. They were outstruck as they considered His words.
 
Matthew says He was as having “authority.” The word is new, eksousía, coming from ek, “out or from,” and which intensifies eimí, “to be, being as a right or privilege” HELPS Word Studies says of this word, “authority, conferred power; delegated empowerment (‘authorization’), operating in a designated jurisdiction.”
 
It was the empowered nature of His words, stating them as if authoritative. Taking the roots of the word eksousía, one can see the intent. His words were “out-being.” The authority, the “out-being” He possessed, was transferred to the content of His words. This then is set in contrast to the next words, “and not as the scribes.”
 
The scribes may have been handsome, rich, very eloquent, etc., but their words lacked the “out-being” necessary to convince the people of what they taught. They treated the Mosaic code as a means to an end. Jesus has not done that. He has spoken of the end of the code, noting that it was authoritative and applicable until He fulfilled it (Matthew 5:17, 18).
 
He then explained the true weight of the law, meaning how God viewed it in relation to His people. From there, He continued to explain things in a manner that no person had ever done so before, revealing things that were expected of the people that they had never considered as such. The scribes did not, nor could they.
 
They had placed their hopes in Moses and forgotten that Moses prophesied of another who would come. John 5 notes this several times. Thus, Jesus set Himself apart from the other teachers. Not only did He speak with authority, but He did so claiming that He was the authority that Moses pointed to.
 
Life application: Churches around the world look for pastors with charisma. They seek out people with exceptional oratory skills as well. They will have big bands with long musical shows each Sunday.
 
Christian TV is filled with this kind of stuff. And yet, those who know the Bible well enough can tell that what is presented is lipstick on a pig. Having excellent elocution doesn’t mean the content is proper or authoritative. But, because of such oration, people who are uninformed will believe it and follow them.
 
Praising God through music is something the Bible not only condones but promotes. However, it is to be based on alignment with Scripture, not emotion with Jesus tossed in as a bonus. We all need to be careful to not get caught up in what is unimportant in our church-seeking lives.
 
Rather, we should be looking for adherence to the word and a proper exposition of it before all else. But we cannot do this if we don’t know the word. Read your Bible.
 
Lord God, help us to be responsible about knowing Your word. May we diligently make it a priority every day of our lives. Help us to not get caught up in sensationalism or hype, but to be careful, contemplative, cautious, and conservative in our approach to Your precious word. Amen.

Matthew 7:28

Sunday, 23 February 2025
 
And so it was, when Jesus had ended these sayings, that the people were astonished at His teaching, Matthew 7:28
 
“And it was when Jesus, He had completed the words, these, the crowds – they were outstruck at His teaching” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, Jesus finished His words about the houses built on the rock or on sand. That finished His speaking and the words now are given to show the people’s reaction. They begin with, “And it was when Jesus, He had completed the words, these.”
 
It is a summary statement that covers everything from Matthew 5:1 –
 
“And seeing the multitudes, He went up on a mountain, and when He was seated His disciples came to Him. 2 Then He opened His mouth and taught them, saying...”
 
From that point, Jesus methodically worked through a vast number of subjects and points on theology, finishing up with Matthew 7:27. The content of His words surpasses the thoughts of the greatest theologians to have ever lived, and people are still learning new insights from them two thousand years later.
 
Because of the volume of information He presented, surely without any prepared notes, overhead projectors, or video displays, the minds of those who heard would have been packed full. Because of this, it next says, “the crowds – they were outstruck at His teaching.”
 
Notice the difference between the opening and closing thoughts of the sermon –
 
5:2 - ...and when He was seated His disciples came to Him. 2 Then He opened His mouth and taught them, saying
7:28 - ...the crowds – they were outstruck at His teaching.
 
Jesus taught the disciples. However, others joined the instruction who listened intently. These would be those mentioned at the end of Matthew 4 –
 
“Great multitudes followed Him—from Galilee, and from Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judea, and beyond the Jordan.” Matthew 4:25
 
Wherever Jesus went, crowds thronged Him. This crowd, however, didn’t just get physical healing as noted in Matthew 4. They got doctrine never before heard. It must have been an incredible thing for them. Because of this instruction, Matthew uses the word ekpléssó, outstruck.
 
The word is derived from ek (out, from) and pléssó, to pound, strike, smite, etc. A comparable English word, here given a new context and meaning, would be “outstruck.” The people were completely floored by what they heard.
 
Life application: The Sermon on the Mount is complete. It is a teaching that has provided people with a lot of hope and inspiration over the millennia. However, it is a teaching that also has brought a lot of misunderstanding and confusion to those who follow Jesus. The reason for this can be summed up with one word, context.
 
The context of Jesus’ words is instruction to Israel while under the law. Although there are precepts found in the teaching that convey eternal truths that everyone should apply to their lives, the overall tenor of His words is given to Israel. They were spoken prior to the completion of His ministry, and a great deal of what He said is now set aside.
 
This is explained in the book of Hebrews with verses like the following, each of which is referring to the Law of Moses:
 
“For on the one hand there is an annulling of the former commandment because of its weakness and unprofitableness, 19 for the law made nothing perfect; on the other hand, there is the bringing in of a better hope, through which we draw near to God.” Hebrews 7:18, 19
 
“In that He says, ‘A new covenant,’ He has made the first obsolete. Now what is becoming obsolete and growing old is ready to vanish away.” Hebrews 8:13
 
“Previously saying, ‘Sacrifice and offering, burnt offerings, and offerings for sin You did not desire, nor had pleasure in them’ (which are offered according to the law), 9 then He said, ‘Behold, I have come to do Your will, O God.’ He takes away the first that He may establish the second.” Hebrews 10:8, 9
 
These verses concerning the end of the law are confirmed by Paul quite a few times in his epistles as well.
 
Remember this context and then as you read through the Sermon on the Mount in the future, be sure to apply it to what you read. In so doing, you will avoid a great deal of theological error and even contradiction in your understanding of Scripture.
 
Lord God, thank You for Your precious word that conveys life and hope to Your people through its contents. In it, we find Jesus. And in Jesus, we find Your love for the people of the world. Thank You for tending to Your people as You have done. Amen.
 

Matthew 7:27

Saturday, 22 February 2025
 
and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.” Matthew 7:27
“And the rain, it descended. And the floods, they came. And the winds, they blew. And they struck the house, that. And it fell, and the falling of it, it was great” (CG).
 
The previous verse conveyed Jesus’ words concerning the foolish man who built his house on the sand. Of him, it next says, “And the rain, it descended.” The words are identical to the corresponding clause in verse 7:25.
 
The house is built, its foundation is on sand, and there will be a result forthcoming, just as with the house built on the rock. But what will this result be? Before it comes, the rains have to be sufficient to test the matter. That is noted in Jesus’ next words, saying, “And the floods, they came.”
 
Again, the words are letter for letter identical to the corresponding clause in Matthew 7:25. With sufficient rain, the water begins to amass and move along. Along with the rains, stormy conditions came, as indicated in the next words, “And the winds, they blew.”
 
The identical wording continues here. Such accompanying winds are not unexpected, even with a small shower, but when combined with heavy rains and flooding, the winds will add extra stress to a structure. Obviously, the more wind, the more stress is then laid against it. Jesus next continues with, “And they struck towards the house, that.”
 
The words contain a single small change from the corresponding clause in verse 7:25 –
 
25 And they fell towards [prospiptó] the house, that.27 And they struck towards [proskoptó] the house, that.
 
The house on the rock had rains fall toward it, but it remained unaffected by them. The implication seems to be that by building on the rock, the house was elevated enough to avoid being struck. On the other hand, the house on the sand was right where the floods were moving. Instead of merely falling towards the house, they struck towards it. Surging against it.
 
Depending on the swiftness of the water, this rushing water would have at least two major effects. The first is to actively hit against the house. The second is to subduct the house as the waters swirled around it. Because of at least one and possibly both actions raging against the house, Jesus says, “And it fell, and the falling of it, it was great.”
 
The contrast is set forth for the hearer to mentally heed and attend to –
 
Rock: And it fell not, for it had been founded upon the rock.Sand: And it fell, and the falling of it, it was great.
 
In life, a little care and planning can go a long way. As this is true with physical things that we encounter, Jesus is demonstrating through metaphor how much more important it is concerning spiritual things. His words are a foundation of rock when they are heeded and adhered to. Failing to do so leaves one’s future resting on the shifting sands of doom.
 
Life application: In 2024, three hurricanes hit the area of Sarasota, Florida within just 2 months and 4 days. The damage was extensive, and the words of Jesus were proven true concerning houses. The barrier islands are only sand. They can take a certain amount of wind and flooding, but even with a mild hurricane, there will be changes to the topography.
 
With larger storms, entire sections of land can be cut through, making two islands out of one. Houses sitting on a sandy foundation can be lifted up and swept away. Those with concrete foundations will withstand more before disaster comes. Those with piles driven deep into the ground, and which are then elevated above ground level, will generally stand even more raging winds and water.
 
Advance planning and careful thought are needed to determine what type of foundation will work best in any given location. But the point is that a stable foundation will always outlast a less stable one.
 
If one bases his life’s decision on the words of Scripture, there can be no surer foundation for things to turn out well. This doesn’t mean in this life. Too many people use the words of Scripture almost as a talisman to claim this life will be carefree and without complication when they are adhered to. But there is no guarantee in the Bible for this.
 
Rather, the surety is in what is spiritual and eternal. What happens here is often common to all men. Hurricanes hit both believers and nonbelievers. Economic collapses will affect both as well. This is a fallen world, and difficulties are to be expected. However, adherence to the word will bring salvation and reward on top of that.
 
Call on Jesus to be saved. That is recorded in the word. Live in faith and conduct your life in faith and rewards will be credited to you. This is also recorded in the word. Pay heed to what it says. It is the blueprint and guide for living in the presence of our glorious Creator.
 
Lord God, when we properly consider and apply Your word, things will go well with our relationship with You. When we fail to do so, we are the ones who put up the wall between us. You have made the way known and the path smooth if we will just follow it according to what You have set forth. Help us, O God, to use wisdom and properly follow You all our days. Amen.

Matthew 7:26

Friday, 21 February 2025
 
“But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: Matthew 7:26
 
“And all the hearing – these, My words – and not doing them, he will be likened to a moronic man who – he built his house upon the sand” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, Jesus described the state of the house that was founded on the rock. Now, He begins a contrasting thought, saying, “And all the hearing – these, My words – and not doing them.”
 
Jesus, speaking as a state of fact concerning what He says conveys to His disciples the thought that His words are necessarily to be heeded. In doing so, there is to be one result. However, in failing to do so, there will be another. Of this alternative result, He next says, “he will be likened to a moronic man.”
 
The adjective móros, moronic, has already been seen in Matthew 5:22. It speaks of a dull, mentally inert person or someone lacking a grip on reality. This is the state of someone who hears Jesus’ words and doesn’t heed them.
 
It is as if there is an electric outlet in front of him saying, “Caution, electrical hazard.” And yet, he extends his index finger and shoves it in the socket anyway.
 
Jesus is speaking words of life. To reject them means death lies ahead. Hence, rejecting what He says is truly moronic. Understanding that, Jesus again provides a metaphor for understanding, saying, “who – he built his house upon the sand.”
 
The word ammos, sand, is introduced. It is derived from hama, an adverb meaning together, at the same time, or along with. One can see the connection when considering innumerable grains of sand on the beach all lying together.
 
Despite this unity, there is no true cohesion. Sand is not bound together but simply rests freely along with their billions of partners to form the borders between the oceans and the dry land. Sand performs its particular function, but one thing it is not good for is stability as a foundation.
 
Life application: Jesus has been speaking since Matthew 5 about various issues. His words have been filled with the wisdom of God because He is the God/Man. Once people understand this, they immediately want to reread and carefully consider what He says. It would be foolish to know that what He says is to be heeded and then to ignore His teachings.
 
However, as has been seen, the audience and surrounding context must be considered. When there is a seeming conflict or even contradiction between the words of Jesus in the gospels and the words of the apostles in Acts or the epistles, a state of confusion can result in the minds of the readers.
 
For those who fail to consider the context properly, an “all or nothing” mentality arises. In other words, “If Jesus said this and it appears to be contradicted by what Paul says, I must follow Jesus and reject Paul.”
 
This false dilemma eventually results in arrogant or uninformed proclamations, such as, “Who are you going to trust, Jesus or Paul?” The responsible answer to this should be, “Both, with their words being considered in their proper context.”
 
We are to instruct others in what is proper concerning this matter. At times, there are those who will utterly reject such a notion because they are steeped in whatever theology they have been taught and they are unwilling to consider anything else.
 
However, for those who understand that God is working in dispensations and laying out a program for the world to see and understand His ways, such seeming contradictions immediately clear up.
 
Peter, Paul, and the other writers of the epistles are not contradicting Jesus’ words. Instead, they are building their thoughts upon His completed work and instructing their audience on what the completion of that work means for the people of the world. Once this is understood, the purpose of the law and Jesus’ instruction under it becomes obvious.
 
Keep things in context and contemplate why disparate thoughts are not contradictory but are merely teachings that belong in different theological boxes from other teachings. When the boxes are kept separate, there will be soundness of doctrine to guide you.
 
Lord God, help us to be diligent in contemplating Your word. May our walk with You be appropriate according to the times in which we live. We have the fulfillment of Christ’s work behind us, and so, we have the freedom from law that comes with it. Thank You for this walk of freedom in the grace of Christ Jesus. Amen.
 

Matthew 7:25

Thursday, 20 February 2025
 
and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. Matthew 7:25
 
“And the rain, it descended. And the floods, they came. And the winds, they blew. And they fell towards the house, that. And it fell not, for it had been founded upon the rock” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, Jesus noted that he who hears His sayings and then does them is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. He continues that thought next, saying, “And the rain, it descended.”
 
Jesus gives the first of several short thoughts, one following right after the next. This first one contains a new word, broché, rain. It is only seen here and again in verse 7:27. It is derived from the verb brechó, to rain.
 
This is something that happens all the time in Israel. However, there are times when the rain is especially heavy or that lasts longer than normal. In such instances, the rains overflow the lands. In such instances, Jesus gives the next short thought, “And the floods, they came.”
 
Another new word is seen, potamos, a flood. It speaks of a flood, be it a running river, water that is unrestrained and flows heavily, etc. It is believed to be a derivative of the word pino, to imbibe or drink. Jesus uses the word metaphorically in John 7:38 when speaking of rivers of living water flowing out of the heart of the one who believes in Him.
 
In the case of Jesus’ words now, the word is plural, floods. The rain has come in such quantities as to flood everything in the area. This can be especially catastrophic depending on where a person is situated during such an event. But this rain and flooding is not all that has occurred. Jesus next says, “And the winds, they blew.”
 
The word pneó is first seen here. It is a primary word meaning to breathe hard. As such, it further signifies to blow or breathe as the wind does. It isn’t just a deluge, but a strong storm that is raging. The winds, along with the flooding, can be quite disastrous.
 
Anyone who has been through a major event like this can testify that it is frightening and dangerous. In the case of the wise man’s house, He says, “And they fell towards the house, that.”
 
The word translated as “fell towards” is prospiptó. It is derived from pros, toward, and piptó, to fall. It has already been seen when describing someone falling down and worshiping. The rains fell in the direction of the house. The floods then fell towards it. Along with them, the winds fell toward it. The entire scene taken together is like a barrage set against that house. And yet, Jesus next says, “And it fell not, for it had been founded upon the rock.”
 
Jesus uses yet another new word, themelioó. It signifies “to lay a basis for,” coming from themelios, a foundation. Thus, it is to found, as in setting a foundation to ensure rigidity. In this case, the word is used in the pluperfect tense. The person had completed the founding of his house in the past. Because he prepared in advance, the foundation was solid and stood when the violence of the elements was thrust upon it.
 
Remembering now that Jesus is equating the founding of this house to hearing and doing His words completes the thought in the mind. When one hears the word of Christ, heeds it, and follows through by applying His words to his life, the greatest trials of life will not prevail over him.
 
What He says here must naturally be taken in the proper context of the times, meaning the dispensation of the law, the audience, meaning the people of Israel under the law, and the situation, meaning heeding the word of God as it has been presented in contrast to the traditions, incorrect teachings, or falsities that have been introduced into the lives of the people.
 
Eventually, Jesus will fulfill the law and these things will have to be considered from that light. However, that has not yet occurred. He is telling the people to trust His word of instruction and to then see how it will fit into the greater context of His ministry as He continues on the path toward the cross.
 
Life application: It is wholly inappropriate for those in the church to insert themselves into the words of Jesus at this time. What Jesus is saying is instruction to God’s people while they are living under the law. This was clearly stated by Him in Matthew 6:32 where He contrasted the people He was speaking to, meaning Israel, to the Gentiles.
 
This confirms that He was not speaking to the Gentiles. It also means that the Gentiles were not under the law, an obvious point, but one that continues to escape so many in the world today. This does not mean that Jesus’ words do not have value for the instruction of the church, but that the context must be considered.
 
“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16, 17
 
All Scripture is useful and profitable, but it must be taught or contemplated while considering the surrounding context.
 
Lord God, help us to consider Your word in the appropriate way that You intend. We are to learn from those things that are stated but not directed specifically to us, and we are to apply those precepts that apply to us today. May we not confuse the intended audience of the words as we consider them. Help us to remember this truth. Amen.
 

Matthew 7:24

Wednesday, 19 February 2025
 
“Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: Matthew 7:24
 
“Therefore, everyone – whoever he hears these, My words, and he does them, I will liken him to a wise man who, he built his house upon the rock” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, Jesus told those who claimed to do things in His name but who do not do His Father’s will that He never knew them and to depart from Him. He now makes a general conclusion concerning the things He has been saying, beginning with, “Therefore, everyone – whoever he hears these, My words.”
 
Jesus is summing up the entirety of the Sermon on the Mount which began in Matthew 5:1. There, it specifically said that when He was seated, His disciples came to Him. From there it said, “Then He opened His mouth and taught them.”
 
Despite this being an address specifically to them, the coming verses will show that it was a larger crowd gathered there who listened. These were all people of Israel, living under the Law of Moses, and who anticipated the coming of Messiah.
 
It is clear from His discourse that He is speaking with the authority of the Father, whether they each realize it or not. Regardless of whether all did or not, He has set forth precepts that have shown the higher standard expected of the law. If the people accepted His words, they would see that more was required than mere rote observance.
 
God is looking at the heart and intent behind what people do. All of this instruction, then, is pointing beyond the law to faith in Him. Jesus is giving them the final tutoring under the law in His ministry. When He is complete, and His work is finished, He will offer a new direction based on His tutoring. It is a foundation that is based on Him and His words.
 
That continues to be seen with His next words, “and he does them.” Jesus has said a lot in these three chapters. However, the key point in what He has said is to be found in verse 5:17 –
 
“You, deem not that I came to disintegrate the law or the prophets. Not, I came to disintegrate but to fulfill” (CG).
 
Jesus didn’t come to ignore the law. Nor did He come to tell people they didn’t need to do the things of the law. Remember that He is talking to Israel under the law. They were bound to it. If He told them they didn’t have to do the things of the law, He would be violating the words of the Lord in the law.
 
However, He came to both do them and fulfill them. In doing so, He could then introduce a New Covenant with a new direction for the people. Hence, doing His words, as He just said, is inclusive of what He will say throughout His ministry. It is not limited to the words of these three chapters. That was seen in verse 7:21 –
 
“Not all, the ‘saying to Me, “Lord, Lord,”’ he will enter into the kingdom of the heavens, but the one doing the will of My Father the ‘in heavens’” (CG).
 
One cannot tear the Sermon in the Mount out of the rest of the book and say, “You must do these things, and you will stand approved.” As was seen in the commentary on verse 7:21, doing the will of the Father is equated to doing the works of God. And those works, according to John 6:29, are to believe in the Son whom the Father has sent.
 
For those who do such, Jesus continues with, “I will liken him to a sagacious man who, he built his house upon the rock.”
 
Jesus introduces a few new words. The first in phronimos, sagacious. In Greek, the word sophos refers to being wise, learned, skilled, etc. It focuses on practical skills or acumen. The word phronimos a cautious character. He has keen mental discernment and good judgment.
 
The next new word is oikodomeó, to be a house builder. Thus, it is to construct or figuratively to confirm something. The word ultimately comes from oikos, house, and demō, to build a house.
 
Finally, the word petra, stone, or rock, is used. It is the basis for the name Peter. But this doesn’t mean Peter is the first pope and that Catholicism is the basis and approved structure of the Christian faith. That will be explained in Matthew 16. A leap like that is unfounded and should be demolished (house destroyed) immediately.
 
Jesus is saying that His words are the rock upon which one’s house, his structure of life and faith, should be built. In doing so, there will be a firm foundation. Paul uses the metaphorical use of the word house when referring to our bodies in 2 Corinthians –
 
“For we know that if our earthly house, this tent, is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.” 2 Corinthians 5:1
 
As for the rock, Jesus is making a claim that His words are authoritative and have the approval of God. The rock metaphor is found throughout the Old Testament. An example directly from Moses explains the meaning –
 
“For I proclaim the name of the Lord:Ascribe greatness to our God.4 He is the Rock, His work is perfect;For all His ways are justice,A God of truth and without injustice;Righteous and upright is He.” Deuteronomy 32:3, 4
 
Life application: What will be our foundation in our spiritual walk? Will it be a particular church? It is incredible to see how sheeple will follow Roman Catholicism, even right over a ledge of wickedness and perversion to their destruction.
 
Others build their house on their own deeds, trying to earn their place in heaven through law observance, taking Jesus’ words out of their overall context, and claiming that is the way to be pleasing to God.
 
But Jesus is incrementally instructing His people in their need for Him. There is a logical progression of thought being presented from the first pages of the Bible. Each step is part of a much larger body of history that has been recorded to show us what God is doing as He directs our attention to Jesus.
 
Stopping at any particular step or ignoring the focus of God’s calling of our attention to Jesus will result in a faulty understanding of what we are being shown. The point of Jesus’ coming is not to establish something beyond Himself, like a church filled with sexually deviant priests. Nor is it to show us how we must repeat what Jesus has already done by observing the Law of Moses.
 
Rather, we are to direct our attention to Jesus. Hebrews 12:2 sums it up, “Eyeballing unto the ‘the faith Pioneer and Perfecter,’ Jesus” (CG). Nothing else will do. All else will lead to a sad end.
 
Heavenly Father, may we rightly consider Your plan of redemption, understanding that Jesus is the focus of it and that in honoring Jesus, we are honoring You. Help us to never forget this fundamental point in our lives. Amen.
 

Matthew 7:23

Tuesday, 18 February 2025
 
And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’ Matthew 7:23
 
“And then, I will assent to them that, ‘Never I knew you! You depart from Me – Those working lawlessness!’” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, Jesus spoke of those who will call out saying that they had prophesied in His name, cast out demons in His name, and done many wonders in His name. And yet, it will be seen that their conduct was not because of faith in Him. That is realized in His next words which begin with, “And then, I will assent to them.”
 
The word homologeó is introduced here. It is derived from homou, the same or together, and logos, a word, as in a statement or speech. Thus, the thought is more than just “declare.” It signifies to agree with or speak the same. As such, it means to assent, a word defined as the expression of approval or agreement.
 
These people have stated their case before the Lord. They have claimed that their actions were based on His name. He, knowing that it was a false pretense, will assent “that, “Never I knew you!”
 
The word oudepote, never, is introduced here. It is derived from oude, not, and pote, a disjunctive particle signifying once, formerly, ever, etc. Taken together, it signifies “not ever” and thus, never. There is no point at which Jesus knew them. Their works were always unsanctioned by Him.
 
Therefore, the assent or agreement is that they had, in fact, done these things. He will acknowledge it is so, but their actions, despite being done in His name, were not with His approval. They simply went about saying and doing things without the proper allowances for them to be done, meaning truly being one of His followers. His words are a denial that they are. Because this is so, He next says, “You depart from Me – Those working lawlessness!”
 
Again, Jesus introduces new words. The first is apochóreó, to depart. It is derived from words signifying away and to make room. A paraphrased thought based on these roots would be “Get away from me and give me space.” But saying depart sufficiently explains the matter.
 
The next new word is the verb ergazomai. It is derived from ergon, work. Thus, it is the action of working. It is something a person is engaged in to accomplish a task. In this case, Jesus tells them to depart from Him because they are engaged in anomia, lawlessness.
 
The word is formed from the negative particle a and nomos, law. Hence, it signifies without law, lawlessness. Despite having done the things they did in Jesus’ name. They had no law allowing them to do so. Deeds done in Jesus’ name must be done in faith or they have no true basis of being in His name.
 
The reason for this is that saying or doing something in the name of someone you don’t believe in is a fool’s business. It is like a professor who teaches the Bible but who doesn’t believe the Bible is what it claims to be.
 
Life application: Politicians love to invoke the name of Jesus when it is convenient. But few of them will actually stand up and say, “I am a follower of Jesus Christ.” Someday, people will be gathered before the Lord and they will understand that He truly is the Lord of all.
 
When they are there, many will fall back on their words. Those politicians who invoked Jesus’ name or who arbitrarily used Jesus’ words for their own purposes might call out, “I proclaimed your name in churches all over America while on the campaign trail.” He will say to them words in accord with those of Matthew 7:23.
 
This will be true of many people in the pulpit as well. Based on his life and actions, this appears to be the case with the current pope. These people invoke Jesus’ name, but their lives and actions have nothing in common with the truth of who Jesus is and what He directs as is recorded in Scripture.
 
Be sure that when you consider the word, you don’t just do so for external show, but for internal guidance. When you praise Jesus, do it in faith that He hears. Anything, no matter how small it is, when it is done in faith will receive its rewards. Have faith and be at peace with God through His wonderful Son, our Lord and Savior, Jesus.
 
O God, You have given us Jesus to lead us back to Yourself. Help us to fix our eyes on Him and maintain Him as our first love all our days. Thank You for Jesus who returns us to You through His perfection. Yes, thank You for Jesus! Amen.

Matthew 7:22

Monday, 17 February 2025
 
Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ Matthew 7:22
 
“Many, they will say to Me in that ‘the day,’ “Lord, Lord, not the ‘Your name’ we prophesied, and the ‘Your name’ we ejected demons, and the ‘Your name’ we performed many miracles?” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, Jesus noted that not everyone who would say to Him, “Lord, Lord,” would enter into the kingdom of the heavens. Now, He continues with, “Many, they will say to Me in that ‘the day.’”
 
The use of the demonstrative pronoun and a subsequent definite article is not always translated. Most translations just say, “in that day.” However, the two together provide an emphasis that should not always be ignored. In this case, some literal translations include both.
 
The BLB, for example, says, “in that the day.” The LET goes a little too far towards the hills of Kentucky and says, “in that there day.” In setting the words “the day” off with apostrophes, the sense is more readily understandable.
 
There is a specific day that is coming when people will stand before the Lord and be judged. It is at that time that they will say, “Lord, Lord, not the ‘Your name’ we prophesied.”
 
Again, the literal translation shows a specificity that is lacking in English. Using the word “in” gets the point across, but the statement is an assertion that these people used Jesus’ name when they prophesied. It isn’t just that they prophesied in His name, but that His name was the subject of their proclamation. With that, He continues with, “and the ‘Your name’ we ejected demons.”
 
Again, the ejection of the demons wasn’t so much in the name of Jesus, as if they had a part in the process. It is the use of the name itself that caused demons to be ejected. As this is so, it signifies that a power rests in His name that extends beyond this realm, even if His deity was not yet understood.
 
At a minimum, people would be thinking, “God has endowed this person with such spiritual power that even the proclamation of His name has power over the demons.” This is similar to the thought seen in Acts 8 –
 
“But there was a certain man called Simon, who previously practiced sorcery in the city and astonished the people of Samaria, claiming that he was someone great, 10 to whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, “This man is the great power of God.” 11 And they heeded him because he had astonished them with his sorceries for a long time.” Acts. 8:9-11
 
These people didn’t claim Simon was God. Rather, they acknowledged him to be the great power of God. This is probably in line with what the people listening to Jesus must have thought concerning His words. Next, Jesus says, “and the ‘Your name’ we performed many miracles?”
 
Again, the name itself is what carries the weight and authority of the action. The thing is, that in order to use a name to effect a change in another, one would think that there would be a conviction within the person stating the name that it was not only capable of conveying power but also it would be worthy of respect.
 
Such, however, is not necessarily true –
 
“Then some of the itinerant Jewish exorcists took it upon themselves to call the name of the Lord Jesus over those who had evil spirits, saying, ‘We exorcise you by the Jesus whom Paul preaches.’ 14 Also there were seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, who did so.15 And the evil spirit answered and said, ‘Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are you?’16 Then the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, overpowered them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded. 17 This became known both to all Jews and Greeks dwelling in Ephesus; and fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified.” Acts 19:13-17
 
Not all who proclaim the name of Jesus are sincere, even when they understand the power the name wields.
 
Life application: In the church today, there are lots of people, heaps of them, who claim to do the miraculous in Jesus’ name. They claim prophetic visions and divine engagements with angels and even the Lord Himself. This has now been going on for over two thousand years.
 
How many of them do you believe? The Bible is written. What more do you expect from the Lord? Of what purpose is it that people claim to do these things? Paul says that we live by faith, not by sight. If we have sight, faith is excluded. Jesus said as much to Thomas.
 
Has one supposed prophecy or miracle over the past two thousand years since the Bible was completed added anything of value to the church? Be careful what you believe. If someone is sick, pray for the Lord’s healing. If someone needs a job, pray that the Lord will provide it. But don’t go looking for miracle workers.
 
The true miracle worker is in heaven, and He will work out His miracles in a manner that will meet His purposes. Have faith in that. It is sufficient.
 
Glorious God Almighty, when we call on the name of Jesus, the greatest miracle of our lives comes about. We are saved by His precious blood. What more could we ever ask for? Thank You for Jesus our Lord. Amen.

Matthew 7:21

Sunday, 16 February 2025
 
“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Matthew 7:21
 
“Not all, the ‘saying to Me, “Lord, Lord,”’ he will enter into the kingdom of the heavens, but the one doing the will of My Father the ‘in heavens’” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, Jesus, having used the metaphor of trees concerning the character of people, said that people will be known by their fruits. He now continues His words to the people, saying, “Not all, the ‘saying to Me, “Lord, Lord.”’”
 
This is the first time that the word kurios, meaning, sir, master, or the Lord God is used in Matthew when not specifically referring to the Lord, Yehovah, the God of Israel. However, chronologically, the first instance was when Elizabeth spoke to Mary –
 
“Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, 40 and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. 41 And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. 42 Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, ‘Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! 43 But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44 For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. 45 Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.’” Luke 1:39-45
 
In her words, Elizabeth notes “the mother of my Lord,” but it is certain she was stating this as an honorific title and not referring to Jesus as Yehovah. In her second use of the word, she was referring to the Lord, Yehovah.
 
Jesus’ use of kurios, Lord, here is equivalent to adon in Hebrew. Each is a title that is given to indicate master, lord, sir, etc. In hearing His words, the people would not assume that He was referring to Himself as Yehovah incarnate any more than one would assume today that somebody saying “Sir, sir” about himself was making such a claim.
 
This doesn’t mean Jesus isn’t fully God. He is, but at this point, the people did not know this. He was merely tying His position of authority to that of the Messiah, thus making a claim to that position. That is seen in the next words. Not all who call Him Lord, Lord, “he will enter into the kingdom of the heavens.”
 
The meaning of “kingdom of the heavens” here is not the same thought as what believers in the church think of today, meaning the heavenly hope of eternal glorified bodies. Rather, it is the messianic hope found in the Old Testament where the shamayim, heavens, is spoken of in relation to a future rule of righteousness. For example –
 
“He shall call to the heavens from above,And to the earth, that He may judge His people:5 ‘Gather My saints together to Me,Those who have made a covenant with Me by sacrifice.’6 Let the heavens declare His righteousness,For God Himself is Judge. Selah” Psalm 50:4-6
 
Such writings indicated to the nation of Israel, to whom Jesus is currently speaking, that there would be a time when there would be a heavenly rule even while they lived on earth. This was their expectation and anticipation, and it is what they believed the Messiah would come to provide.Jesus is telling them that not all who claimed Him as the kurios, the Lord, of this rule would enter into that kingdom. Rather, He says, “but the one doing the will of My Father the ‘in heavens.’”
 
Of this, Bengel incorrectly states, “The meaning is, ‘unto Me and My Father;’ and again, ‘My Father’s Will and Mine.’—Κύριε, Lord) Jesus acknowledged that this Divine appellation was due to Him.”
 
The problem with this is that outside of Mary and anyone she talked to, nobody at this time knew of Jesus’ true nature. Even Mary probably didn’t grasp this. The expectation was that God would send a Messiah, but none knew that the Messiah would be God incarnate.
 
Bengel and others take their current understanding of theology, and shove it into these events of the past, where it does not yet belong in the minds of the people hearing Jesus’ words.
 
Jesus does not say “Me and My Father,” nor does He say, “My Father’s Will and Mine.” That thought may be implied in His coming words, but it is no proof to the people of divinity. Rather, David could have said the same thing, “I am the king, and I am doing the will of my heavenly Father in destroying the enemies of the people of God.”
 
The idea of God’s Father relationship to Israel was known as far back as Moses, such as in Deuteronomy 32:7. It is repeated all the way through Scripture to Malachi 2:10. Though Jesus is the only begotten Son of God, this is not the context of His words in the minds of the people.
 
As for what the Father’s will is, that is ultimately summed up in John 6 –
 
“Then they said to Him, ‘What shall we do, that we may work the works of God?’29 Jesus answered and said to them, ‘This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He sent.’” John 6:29
 
To do the will of the Father is to do the works of God. It is to have faith in Jesus, believing in His nature, His completion of the work set before Him, and His all-sufficiency in that work for our lives.
 
Life application: Today, properly trained students of the Bible believe that Jesus is fully God and fully Man because this is what the Bible teaches. However, we cannot take our understanding of such doctrines, only understood later after Jesus completed His earthly ministry, and apply them to the minds of the people of Israel without doing harm to the narrative.
 
An example of this is when people take precepts of the Law of Moses and refer to them in the times before the law was introduced, such as in the life of Abraham or Jacob. No dietary restrictions were levied upon them, and yet commentaries will speak of their lives and conduct as if they were obedient to the law.
 
And example of such thinking is found in the account of Noah –
 
“You shall take with you seven each of every clean animal, a male and his female; two each of animals that are unclean, a male and his female; 3 also seven each of birds of the air, male and female, to keep the species alive on the face of all the earth.” Genesis 7:2, 3
 
Jews and others claim that the words about “clean” animals implies that they had the precepts of the law already given to them. This is incorrect. The idea of a clean animal at the time of Noah had nothing to do with the Law of Moses.
 
Rather, the animals that were considered clean were those that did not eat dead things. Instead of feeding off of death, like a cat might, they fed off of that which is provided from the ground, like sheep. Shoving the law into prelaw times negates the purpose of the giving of the law!
 
Keep things in their intended context. In doing so, you will avoid many errors in your thinking and doctrine.
 
Glorious God, when we come to difficult issues in our time reading the Bible, give us the wisdom to stop and think about why things are detailed as they are. Help us to have clarity of thought in how we approach this precious word so that we do not fall into error. Amen.
 

Matthew 7:20

Saturday, 15 February 2025
 
Therefore by their fruits you will know them. Matthew 7:20
 
“Hence, from their fruits you will know them” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, Jesus spoke about what happens to the tree that doesn’t bear good fruit. Because it doesn’t provide fruit for man, it will be cut down. As was seen, having tied the words into their greater context, this pointed to the law versus grace.
 
The law is likened to a tree with bad fruit because it cannot provide suitable nourishment for man. It was never intended to do so apart from Christ’s perfect fulfillment of it. But this means that He was already in a state of perfection, not that He was imperfect and attained perfection through the law. Understanding the greater context, Jesus next begins His summary thoughts of this part of His thoughts with, “Hence.”
 
The word ara, hence, is introduced here. It is an illative particle, meaning that it is given when drawing an inference. It is stated when a conclusion is reached on the basis of evidence and reasoning. Jesus’ conclusion concerning those who are likened to bad trees is that “from their fruits you will know them.”
 
In the case of false prophets, the main subject of this short line of thought, one will be able to discern a false prophet by the fruit he bears. People don’t need to, nor should they be expected to, judge someone simply because of how he looks when preaching. Nor should a judgment be made merely by his oratory skills. Such externals as that can be completely misleading.
 
Rather, fruit is something external, but which is derived from inside. It expresses that inner aspect in a demonstration of one’s true character. This is to be found in the teaching of such a person as well as a close inspection of the way he lives his life when apart from his time of teaching. These things help identify what a person is really like.
 
Life application: There are preachers, priests, and teachers who present themselves as if they have great holiness when in church. Catholics, Anglicans, and others wear flowing garments, have big poofy hats, and carry rods with crosses on the top of them. They step carefully and move rigidly showing themselves to be models of piety.
 
And yet, they may be homosexuals or (as it is common in some churches to ordain women today) lesbians. The disgraceful acts they conduct while away from the church identify their true character. They may even bring their vile teachings into the church while speaking of “inclusion” and “tolerance.” These are code words for the acceptance of perversion and immorality. These are their fruits.
 
Others may know the Bible well and speak against such things, but they teach law observance rather than the grace of Jesus Christ. They bring people into bondage and a yoke that was removed from Israel on the cross of Calvary. Do not touch! Do not taste! Observe this day to be holy! Their legalism goes on and on. They do not understand grace, they will not permit grace, and they shun those who trust in grace. These are their fruits.
 
Others may have a carefully constructed message, present it well and demonstrate piety, while reminding people of their theological training and background, and yet they may have lied about the college they attended. They also may have more love of sound doctrine than for the Lord who authored the word that gave the doctrine in the first place.
 
These may be harder to identify, but eventually, their fruit will be exposed. A good but sad example of this was Ravi Zacharias. He meticulously presented outstanding doctrine, was an exceptional orator, and presented himself as a well-trained and sound theologian. And yet, it was discovered that his life was a lie. He was a sexual deviant, and he claimed positions that he never possessed.
 
Unfortunately, even though many in evangelical circles knew or suspected these things, they did not speak up because of his influence. People’s lives were harmed and surely many were disillusioned and removed themselves from fellowship because of what they heard. These were his fruits, and they were only exposed after his death when it was too late. But the Lord will render His judgment.
 
Check! Investigate! Don’t be duped by such externals, even if they include incredible doctrine. Unless you can personally evaluate the individual, always be wary concerning your esteem for him. Instead, send your praise and esteem directly to Jesus who deserves all glory!
 
Lord God, help us to discern what is right or wrong concerning those we come to for instruction. It is so easy to get allured into a comfortable state around authority figures when we should instead be on guard concerning them and their doctrine. Help us in this, Lord. May our direction be set on a good path, not partaking in unwholesome fruit. Amen.

Matthew 7:19

Friday, 14 February 2025
 
Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Matthew 7:19
 
“Every tree not producing good fruit, it is exscinded, and it is cast into fire” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, Jesus noted that a good tree cannot bear bad fruit. Likewise, a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Having said that, He continues with, “Every tree not producing good fruit, it is exscinded.”
 
The words are in accord with what John the Baptist had already said –
 
“But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to his baptism, he said to them, ‘Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8 Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance, 9 and do not think to say to yourselves, “We have Abraham as our father.” For I say to you that God is able to raise up children to Abraham from these stones. 10 And even now the ax is laid to the root of the trees. Therefore every tree which does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.’” Matthew 3:7-10
 
The clear implication is that the words of Jesus in this chapter subtly point to the Pharisees and Sadducees as false prophets. In that state, they need a completely new nature in order to no longer be set for destruction. If not, they will remain bad trees. As such, each is set to be exscinded, “and it is cast into fire.”
 
The words here are pointing to truths set forth in the Law of Moses –
 
“When you besiege a city for a long time, while making war against it to take it, you shall not destroy its trees by wielding an ax against them; if you can eat of them, do not cut them down to use in the siege, for the tree of the field is man’s food. 20 Only the trees which you know are not trees for food you may destroy and cut down, to build siegeworks against the city that makes war with you, until it is subdued.” Deuteronomy 20:19, 20
 
The point of this precept in Deuteronomy is that a battle is being fought, there is an extended siege against a strong city, and the trees that are for food, meaning those which bear fruit, are to not be cut down. But this would be inclusive of trees that bear bad fruit, which is what Jesus now refers to.
 
Trees are equated with people at times. There are those who bear fruit, and there are those who do not. An example of this is found in Psalm 1 –
 
“He shall be like a treePlanted by the rivers of water,That brings forth its fruit in its season,Whose leaf also shall not wither;And whatever he does shall prosper.” Psalm 1:3
 
From a New Testament perspective, we can look at the words of Deuteronomy in relation to Paul’s words concerning warfare in 2 Corinthians 10. While Christians are waging war and pulling down strongholds, we shouldn’t destroy the work of those who are bearing fruit.
 
They are productive even if they are not actively engaged with us in our own battle. As Jesus said succinctly, “For he who is not against us is on our side” (Mark 9:40). Moses’ words concerning trees certainly extend to this spiritual application in our Christian warfare.
 
As for the words of Deuteronomy 20:20, there is a strong emphasis in them, “Only – tree which you know that not tree for food, it, you may destroy.” The tree, which is not for food, is set in complete contrast to those that are. Of such trees, they may be chopped down and employed in building siegeworks.
 
Again, the words of Deuteronomy anticipate the words of Jesus in His coming ministry. He, speaking under the law to Israel, provides His words in the gospels concerning the trees that bear bad fruit.
 
The fact that John brought up Abraham in Matthew 3 (cited above) shows that what is being referred to is righteousness by faith, not through the law. Those who share a false gospel of works-based righteousness, such as the Hebrew Roots movement, can be – as it were – cut down and used in the siege.
 
In other words, they become the very instruments for defeating the enemy. Using their doctrine as an example of what is useless for man, they are to be cut down – verbally destroyed – in order to provide the proper employment of the gospel to destroy the enemy.
 
The lesson is that of apologetics, meaning using that which is of no value as an example to argue against in order to defend the faith and then go on the offensive. Having said that, the truth that John and Jesus are both ultimately referring to being cast into hell cannot be dismissed. Those who teach a false message will be cut off from the presence of God.
 
Life application: Paul was a Pharisee. He is one of the people the words of John, and now Jesus, referred to. And yet, Paul was called out of that darkness into the light of Christ. This shows that despite the nature of the tree, meaning bad fruit, the symbolism is not to be applied permanently to an individual.
 
In other words, a person with a bad nature and who bears bad fruit can be changed. As such, despite speaking against their false doctrine, we should also be speaking to them personally, imploring them through reason to change and be converted. Even heretics can see the light and change. This is what our presenting proper doctrine should be directed to.
 
Lord God, help us to always be about the business of learning Your word. Each day of our lives, may we pick it up, read it, and study it, contemplating what You are telling us and molding our minds more and more to align with Your will. May it be so to Your glory. Amen.