Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

Read Matthew 1 -- 3

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Jesus fulfills all prophecy concerning the promised Messiah: a descendant of Abraham and of David (1:1-16), and His Miraculous birth (1:18-25). Herod is troubled by the news of Wise Men (2:1-3). The enemy attempts to destroy God's Plan of Salvation (2:13-18).
Mary of Nazareth was engaged to Joseph, also of Nazareth (1:18). The Jewish custom was that a betrothal lasted for one year. There was no physical consummation until after the actual wedding (Deut. 22:13-30). However, the betrothal was as legally binding as marriage and required a legal divorce to dissolve it (Matt. 5:31-32).

The birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as His mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with Child of the Holy Ghost (Spirit) (1:18). When Joseph learned Mary was pregnant, he considered divorcing her privily. But . . . the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph . . . fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a Son, and thou shalt call His Name Jesus: for He shall save His people from their sins (1:19-23).

Both Mary and Joseph were descendants of David. However, if Joseph had been the biological father of Jesus, he would have passed on to Him the sin nature of Adam. This would have made Jesus a sinner by nature and unable to die as the sinless substitute for our sins.

Our Lord and Savior was born by miraculous conception for what the Law could not do, in that it was weak through flesh, God sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin was born of a virgin (Rom. 8:3) but without inheriting the Adamic sin nature. Our Creator took on our physical nature in a miraculous union of the human and the Divine, so that He might redeem us from sin.

Christianity started with a miracle, the Babe of Bethlehem, who was both the Son of God and the Son of Mary.

Likewise, a miracle takes place: As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His Name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld His glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth (John 1:12-14).

Thought for Today:

Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation (Ps. 68:19).
Word Studies:

1:18 espoused =engaged; came together =had physical relations, she was a virgin; 2:16 mocked of =deceived by; coasts =surrounding regions; 3:8 fruits meet for repentance = life that confirms your change of heart; 3:15 Suffer it to be =allow it to be; fulfil all righteousness =do all that God requires.
Cross References:

For Matt. 1:23: See Is. 7:14. Matt. 2:6: See Micah 5:2. Matt. 2:15: See Hos. 11:1. Matt. 2:18: See Jer. 31:15. Matt. 3:3: See Is. 40:3.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for our Military worldwide • Arabic International Shortwave Broadcasts for the month of October sponsored by Mary Hoffmeyer • Staff: Dr. John A. Hash • Government Official: Rep. Devin Nunes (CA) • Country: Equatorial Guinea (466,000) in western Africa • Major language: Spanish • Freedom for churches at this time • 71% Roman Catholic; 19% ancestral spirit worship and medicine men; 6% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Pray to be considerate to the less fortunate (Ps. 41:1).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 15:4

[Judy Harder]

Read Matthew 4 -- 6

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Jesus tempted of the Devil (4:1-11). Christians are heirs of the Kingdom of God. The Sermon on the Mount describes the character of the children of God, not through anything they do but because of the new birth nature of God which they receive when Christ becomes Savior and Lord of their lives (5:13-6:34). Don't miss how to pray and fast (6:5-18).
The disciples followed Jesus to an open mountainside and, as King of His Kingdom, Jesus sat down and proclaimed the Sermon on the Mount (chap. 5 -- 7), which will guide the conduct and character of His true citizens. Jesus began His sermon by saying: Blessed (Happy) are the poor in spirit (5:3). Poor in spirit describes the humble who desire to be emptied of self-confidence and self-importance. Such persons acknowledge that without the Lord they can do nothing of eternal value. As Jesus said: Without Me ye can do nothing (John 15:5).

Next, Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted (Matt. 5:4). This is not sorrow over the loss of material possessions, physical sufferings, or even the death of loved ones, but over everything that hinders spiritual progress. It is godly sorrow, a sorrow (that) worketh repentance (II Cor. 7:10). Caring deeply that we please our Lord develops in us a teachable spirit. Others are impatient when faced with adverse circumstances -- like King Saul (I Sam. 13:8-14), who failed to wait upon the Lord (Is. 40:31). Many set time limits on when God should answer their prayers. But the meek . . . shall inherit the earth (Matt. 5:5). Meekness is unwavering loyalty and unconditional submission to Christ as Lord, regardless of circumstances or opposition. Jesus said: Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly (humble) in heart (11:29).

Next, we learn that they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness . . . they shall be filled (5:6). Such a hunger is the supreme desire to be obedient to God and to be in fellowship with Him. It means that we desire to know more of His Word in order to become more like Christ. For the Word of God is quick (living) and powerful . . . and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart (Heb. 4:12). This yearning for His righteousness is man's part; then God assures us that they shall be filled.

The Old and New Testament are both unique for they are the only inspired Word of God. It is His instruction to gain spiritual wisdom, spiritual food, and guidance. We are to desire the sincere milk of The Word, that ye may grow thereby (I Pet. 2:2).

Thought for Today:

But know that the Lord hath set apart him that is godly for Himself (Ps. 4:3).
Word Studies:

5:13 his savour =its usefulness; 5:18 one jot or one tittle =is the dot on the letter "i" or the cross of a "t"; 5:22 say . . . Raca =worthless one, pour contempt; 5:29 offend thee =causes you to sin; 5:33 forswear =swear falsely, break an oath; 5:46 publicans =Jewish tax collectors, worldly minded; 6:19 corrupt =make money worthless; 6:22 single =free from deceit; 6:23 evil =selfish, sinful; 6:24 mammon =material things.
Cross References:

For Matt. 4:4: See Deut. 8:3. Matt. 4:6: See Ps. 91: 11-12. Matt. 4:7: See Deut. 6:16. Matt. 4:10: See Deut. 6:13-14. Matt. 4:15-16: See Is. 9:1-2. Matt. 5:21: See Ex. 20:13. Matt. 5:27: See Ex. 20:14. Matt. 5:31: See Deut. 24:1. Matt. 5:33: See Num. 30:2. Matt. 5:38: See Ex. 21:24. Matt. 5:43: See Lev. 19:18.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for English International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Mr. & Mrs. Casmir A. Zuranski • Staff: George Kopchak • Government Officials: Rep. Hank Johnson (GA) and Rep. Mark Schauer (MI) • Country: Eritrea (4 million) in eastern Africa • Major languages: English and Tigrinya • Religious persecution • 51% Muslim; 40% Eritrean Orthodox; 4% Catholic; 1.5% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Pray for a greater desire to serve the Lord (Ps. 42:1-2).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 15:4  

[Judy Harder]

Read Matthew 7 -- 9

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Jesus continues teaching the basic principles of how Christians conduct themselves (chap. 7). Don't miss The Golden Rule and the narrow gate (7:12-14). Jesus emphasizes the power of faith (chap. 8 -- 9). Like sheep, people need a shepherd. The harvest is great, the labourers are few (9:36-38).
The majority of Jews in Jesus' day mistakenly presumed that they were the chosen of God simply because they were descendants of Abraham, through Isaac and Jacob, and were included in his Covenant through circumcision (Gen. 12 and 15). They ignored their responsibility to obey the Word of God as their obligation of the Covenant. This led to a false sense of security.

It must have been a shock for them to hear the Lord say: Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because . . . narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it (Matt. 7:13-14). The Lord made it clear that there are only two choices. The majority of people choose the broad way, the path of self-will and self-gratification (me-first). It is wide because there is no self-denial. God has said: There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death (Prov. 14:12). Popular false prophets throughout history were broad-minded, neglecting surrender, self-denial, repentance, or obedience to Christ and His Word. True biblical teaching is as unpopular in "Christendom" in our day as it was then.

The Lord's message is clear: Not every one that saith unto Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the Kingdom of Heaven; but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in heaven (Matt. 7:21). To enter . . . in at the strait gate in order to be on the path that leads to eternal life is more than joining a church and being baptized, as good as these acts are. The true followers of Christ are not perfect, but they do follow Christ as Lord and Master. It is with the heart man believeth unto righteousness (Rom. 10:10). This means: Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world (I John 2:15-16).

If ye live after (by impulse of) the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify (put to death) the (sinful) deeds of the body, ye shall live (forever) (Rom. 8:13).

Thought for Today:

Whatsoever we ask, we receive of Him, because we keep His Commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in His sight (I John 3:22).
Word Studies:

7:2 ye mete =you measure out, give; 7:3 mote =tiny, insignificant speck; beam =such as judgmental unloving self-righteousness, pretending to have a character one does not possess; 7:6 rend =to tear apart; 8:31 suffer =permit; 9:9 receipt of custom =tax collector's office; 9:10 sat at meat =sat down to a meal; 9:36 fainted =distressed by the burden of the rituals and rules of the scribes and Pharisees; scattered =thrown down, confused, deceived, neglected by the self-righteous leaders who were more concerned about keeping their own position than helping others.
Cross References:

For Matt. 7:23: See Ps. 6:8. Matt. 8:4: See Lev. 14:1-32. Matt. 8:17: See Is. 53:4. Matt. 9:13: See Hos. 6:6.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Sen. Jeff Bingaman (NM), Rep. Charlie Melancon (LA), Rep. David Obey (WI), Gov. Bob Riley (AL), and Rep. Allyson Schwartz (PA) • Country: Estonia (1.47 million) northeastern Europe • Major languages: Estonian and Russian • Religious freedom • 38.4% Protestant; 20.3% Orthodox; 1% Roman Catholic; 1% Muslim; .3% Jewish; 39% non-Religious/Other • Prayer Suggestion: Remember that God delights in your joy (Ps. 43:4).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 15:4

[Judy Harder]

Read Matthew 10 -- 11

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Thank God for today's message from Jesus who said: Whosoever therefore shall confess Me before men, him will I confess also before My Father which is in heaven (10:32). John the Baptist is about to be beheaded, but he made the right choice (10:28). Jesus praised him as His messenger (11:1-15). Unbeliever's actions and judgement (11:16-24). Life's greatest invitation: Come unto Me (11:28-30).
Jesus chose just ordinary men from the communities in which He taught, saying: I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. But beware of men (10:16-17).

Christians are given a harmless "sheep-like" nature. Sheep are symbolic of innocence but not of cowardice. By their very nature, sheep are in need of a shepherd, for they will wander off and easily become prey. All we like sheep (Is. 53:6) need the True Shepherd as our Guide, Protector, and Provider, and we need His Word for our food (Matt. 4:4; John 10:11,14; I Pet. 2:2).

Sheep are contrasted with wolves, which are natural enemies of sheep. Wolves in human form (false teachers) may appear to be sincere sheep (Matt. 7:15). Often, their hostility toward Christ and His Word is hidden. But in due time a wolf's nature surfaces.

Jesus said: Ye shall be hated of all men for My Name's sake (10:22,24). But, with Christ, the Christian can stand boldly in the face of ridicule and even the fiercest enemy. Jesus assured us: Fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear Him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. . . . (where) there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth (10:28; 8:12).

Jesus said: Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword. For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother . . . He that taketh not his cross, and followeth after Me, is not worthy of Me (10:34-38). Yes! The Kingdom of Heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force (11:12). This means that His Kingdom followers are determined men and women who will not be intimidated or stopped by family members, friends, peer pressure, or fierce opposition -- or even by the more deceptive and deadly lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life (I John 2:16). True Christians know that: No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him (II Tim. 2:4).

Thought for Today:

Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice: and let men say among the nations, The Lord reigneth (I Chr. 16:31).
Word Studies:

10:25 Beelzebub =prince of evil; 10:29 a farthing = small coin of little value; 10:35 variance =division, disagreement; 11:20 upbraid =rebuke.
Cross References:

For Matt. 10:11, 35-36: See Mic. 7:6. Matt. 11:5: See Is. 35:5; 61:1. Matt. 11:10: See Mal. 3:1. Matt. 11:23: See Ezek. 26:20; 31:14; 32:18,24. Matt. 11:29: See Jer. 6:16.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Radio Sri Lanka International Shortwave Broadcasts for the week sponsored by Mrs. Norma V. Hurst • Country: Ethiopia (60 million) in eastern Africa • Major languages: Amharic and Tigrinya • Unsettled after overthrow of communist regime • 41% Eastern Orthodox; 35% Muslim; 10% Protestant; 10% animist; .7% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Remember that the Lord is always ready to help you in times of trouble (Ps. 46:1).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 15:8

[Judy Harder]

Read Matthew 12

Highlights In Today's Reading:

A lot of questions! Are rules more important than people? What does Jesus say (12:1-14)? Jesus said not to tell He healed them. Why (12:15-21)? The true family of Jesus (12:46-50).
Driven by a determination to stop the growing popularity of Jesus, the Pharisees went out, and held a council against Him, how they might destroy (kill) Him. But when Jesus knew it, He withdrew Himself (12:14-15).

The hatred of the religious leaders for Jesus reached a climax when there was brought unto Him one possessed with a devil, blind, and dumb: and He healed him, insomuch that the blind and dumb both spake and saw. And all the people were amazed, and said, Is not this the Son of David? (12: 22-23), as foretold by Israel's prophets: The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David (Is. 9:6-7).

The religious leaders attempted to destroy the people's growing faith in Jesus as their Messiah by saying: This fellow (Jesus) doth not cast out devils, but by Beelzebub the prince of the devils (Matt. 12:24), to which Jesus replied: Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost (Spirit) shall not be forgiven unto men (12:31).

Refusing to admit their hypocrisy, the religious leaders continued questioning Jesus, saying: Master, we would see a sign (miracle) from Thee (proving that You are who You claim to be) (12:38). They had already seen numerous miracles, so He answered and said . . . An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas (12:39).

The sign of the prophet Jonas (Jonah) undoubtedly has more than one meaning. The most obvious is the comparison between Jonah's three days and nights in the belly of the great fish (Jon. 1:17) and Christ's death and burial, which also covered three days and nights.

When Jonah preached to the heathen city of Nineveh, the people sincerely accepted the Word of God and repented; but these experts in the Law refused to believe the One greater than Jonas who stood before them (Matt. 12:41).

What a thrill it is to look forward to His soon return. For whosoever shall do the will of My Father which is in heaven, the same is My brother, and sister, and mother (Matt. 12:50).

Thought for Today:

When the Chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away (I Pet. 5:4).
Word Studies:

12:1 corn =grain fields; 12:5 profane =violate or break the law; 12:29 spoil his goods = take away his possessions; 12:44 garnished =ready for use but unoccupied.
Cross References:

For Matt. 12:7: See Hos. 6:6. Matt. 12:18-21: See Is. 42:1-4. Matt. 12:40: See Jon. 1:17.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Shortwave Broadcasts in honor of Linda Kennon • Staff: Beth Carlton • Government Officials: Rep. Virginia Brown-Waite (FL), Sen. Benjamin Cardin (MD), Rep. John Boccieri (OH), and Rep. At-Large Dennis Rehberg (MT) • Country: Fiji (813,000) in the southwestern Pacific • Major languages: English and Fijian • Religious freedom • 41% Hindu; 40% Protestant; 9% Roman Catholic; 8% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: God wants to be exalted through you (Ps. 46:10).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 15:8

[Judy Harder]

Read Matthew 13 -- 14

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Powerful lessons. The Word of God is the seed. We're just told to plant. God takes it from there (13:1-23). Mustard seed, yeast, and hidden treasure. The pearl of great price can be yours (13:45-46). Jesus miraculously feeds 5,000 (14:13-21) and walks on water (14:25-27).
Uppermost in the minds of all Jewish people was the restoration of their earthly kingdom. Concerning the mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven (13:11), Jesus described four responses from those who hear His Word. Some react with self-destroying indifference; they represent the seeds (that) fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up (13:4). Indifferent hearers are too involved with self interest; consequently, they do not respond to the Gospel. The fowls are the influences of the wicked one (13:19). The seeds are the Word of God which can always be lost until it is received in our hearts (Ps. 119:11). Others who hear the Word seem receptive but soon lose interest. These are like some seeds (that are sown) upon stony places (solid rock beneath a shallow covering of soil). . . . the same is he that heareth the Word, and anon with joy receiveth it . . . for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the Word, by and by he is offended (Matt. 13:5,20-21). The seed sprouts quickly and these "converts" appear full of life; but, when they are faced with opposition, they are offended, and quit.

Still other "converts" are like seed that fell among thorns (which) . . . choked them (13:7). These represent those who heareth the Word . . . (but who let) the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the Word, and he becometh unfruitful (13:22). They seem to recognize the true worth of following Christ; but, other interests gradually take control of their hearts. However, Jesus said that some seeds fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold (13:. This means that insight and understanding will be given in direct proportion to our response to do the will of Christ. This good ground represents all who believe and obey the Word of God. They have prepared their hearts by reading their Bibles and discover the difference between the things of this world and what pleases Christ. By repentance and faith they root out the weeds of mixed motives that destroy spiritual fruitfulness.

This parable reveals why there are so many spiritual dropouts. But, our Lord also wants us to know that, when we sincerely sow the seed of His Word, we cannot fail since some seed will fall on good ground. God also has assured us: My Word . . . shall not return unto Me void (Is. 55:11).

Thought for Today:

As for God, His way is perfect; the Word of the Lord is tried (II Sam. 22:31).
Word Studies:

13:5 forthwith =quickly; 13:15 is waxed gross =has grown hardened; 13:20 anon . . . receiveth it =immediately accepts it; 13:21 dureth for a while =continues only a short time; 13:25 tares = symbolic of satanic activities; 13:33 leaven =insignificant yeast that affects the whole; meal =ground grain; 14:8 charger =large platter.
Cross References:

For Matt. 13:14-15: See Is. 6:9-10. Matt. 13:32: See Ps. 104:12; Ezek. 17:23; 31:6; Dan. 4:12. Matt. 13:35: See Ps. 78:2. Matt. 13:41: See Zeph. 1:3. Matt. 13:43: See Dan. 12:3.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for English International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Beverly Skinner • Staff: Tammy Davis • Government Officials: Rep. Lloyd Doggett (TX), Rep. Brian Higgins (NY), Rep. Steve Scalise (LA) • Country: Finland (5.2 million) in northern Europe • Major languages: Finnish and Swedish • Religious freedom • 86% Lutheran; 1% Orthodox; 12% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Ask God for daily direction (Ps. 48:14).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 15:8

[Judy Harder]

Read Matthew 15 -- 17

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Man's traditions and rules. Jesus continues to teach, heal, and feed the multitudes (chap. 15).Who do you believe Jesus is (16:13-20)? Jesus tells disciples about His death (16:21-28). Disciples receive "faith builders" in viewing the transfiguration and the healing of the demon-possessed boy (17:1-21).
Caesarea Philippi is about 25 miles north of the Sea of Galilee. It is located at the foot of the southern slope of Mount Hermon with its snowcapped peak reaching over 9,000 feet above sea level. It was here in this famous idol-worshiping place in the midst of large numbers of idol worshipers that Jesus asked His disciples: Whom do men say that I the Son of Man am? (16:13). In response, the disciples answered: Some say that Thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets (16:14).

Then He responded: But whom say ye that I am? Peter, enlightened by the Holy Spirit, answered without hesitation: Thou art the Christ, the Son of the Living God (16:15-16).

Our Lord then introduced His Church for the first time (16:18). It is not a building, a religious organization, or a denomination; but it is His "called-out ones" who are brothers and sisters in fellowship with one another and with Christ who is the Head of the Church.

The Church is composed of people who realize they were lost sinners, redeemed by His blood, and under the discipline of Christ who is their Savior and Lord. He has provided the Word of God as our source of guidance to become the person He expects us to be and to accomplish His plan for our lives.

A "local church" is a community of caring believers who recognize their Covenant relationship with Christ and join together for worship and service to Christ. He has assured us of its success when He said: I will build My Church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it (16:18).

Christ also loved the Church, and gave Himself for it; That He might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by The Word, That He might present it to Himself a glorious Church, not having spot, or wrinkle . . . but that it should be holy and without blemish (Eph. 5:25-27).

His message is clear: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the Day (of Christ's return) approaching (Heb. 10:25).

Thought for Today:

They that trust in the Lord shall be as Mount Zion, which cannot be removed, but abideth for ever (Ps. 125:1).
Word Studies:

16:6 leaven =false teaching; 16:18 gates of hell =the powers of Satan; 17:25 prevented him =Jesus anticipated what Peter would say and spoke before Peter could.
Cross References:

For Matt. 15:4: See Ex. 20:12; 21:17; Lev. 20:9; Deut. 5:16. Matt. 15:8-9: See Is. 29:13. Matt. 16:27: See Ps. 62:12; Prov. 24:12.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Shortwave Broadcasts in honor of Bonnie Wilhite • Staff: Jennifer Cunningham • Government Official: Rep. Bill Foster (IL) • Country: France (59.1 million) in western Europe • Major language: French • Religious freedom • 80% Roman Catholic; 7% Islam; 1.22% Protestant; 1.18% Jewish; 1% Buddhist; .2% Orthodox; .2% Eastern Catholic; .2% Jehovah's Witness; 9% Other/None • Prayer Suggestion: Praise the Lord; our God is the Mighty God (Ps. 50:1).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 15:8

[Judy Harder]

Read Matthew 18 -- 20

Highlights In Today's Reading:

The disciples question how to have eternal life and to live godly. Graciously the Savior answers their questions, teaching the horrifying consequences of an unforgiving attitude. By faith, we follow our King. With Jesus all things are possible (19:26).
The Kingdom of Heaven (is) likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants. . . . one . . . owed him ten thousand talents (such is the awful debt of our sin against God). . . . The servant . . . worshipped him, saying, Lord . . . I will pay thee all (impossible -- not of works -- Eph. 2:8-10). Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion . . . and forgave him the debt. But the same (forgiven) servant . . . found one of his fellowservants, which owed him an hundred pence (just a few pennies in comparison to his own enormous debt). . . . his fellowservant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all (same prayer the first servant offered) (Matt. 18:23-29). But, he showed no mercy and cast him into prison till he should pay the debt. When the merciful king heard this, he said: O thou wicked servant (18:32). He did not call him wicked because he owed the enormous amount of ten thousand talents but because he offered no mercy. And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors (18:34). Jesus warned: So likewise shall My Heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses (18:35).

The unforgiving person cannot pray: Forgive . . . (me my) debts, as (I) forgive . . . (my) debtors (6:12,14). Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven (5:44-45). The unforgiving has brought the wrath of God upon himself. It is a serious thing to harbor ill will, bitterness, and unforgiveness in our hearts, for it keeps God from forgiving us of our sins. We must forgive every offense if we expect to be freely forgiven by God of so much more than any one could ever owe us. As we forgive grudges, we'll no longer pity ourselves for how much we've been hurt but it makes it possible to also pray for God to richly bless the ones who have offended us.

For we also forgive every one that is indebted to us (Luke 11:4). Be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you (Eph. 4:32).

Thought for Today:

Fear the Lord, and serve Him in sincerity and in truth (Josh. 24:14).
Word Studies:

18:6 offend =to wrong, cause to sin; 19:14 Suffer =permit; 20:3 third hour =about 9 a.m.; 20:11 murmured against the goodman of the house =were indignant, critical with their employer; 20:15 Is thine eye evil? =are you begrudging, jealous, or envious?; 20:26 minister =servant.
Cross References:

For Matt. 18:16: See Deut. 19:15. Matt. 19:4: See Gen.1:27; 5:2. Matt. 19:5: See Gen. 2:24. Matt. 19:7: See Deut. 24:1-4. Matt. 19:18: See Ex. 20:13-16; Deut. 5:16-20. Matt. 19:19: See Ex. 20:12; Lev. 19:18; Deut. 5:16.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for English International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Thursday Morning Prayer • Staff: Mike Moore • Government Officials: Rep. Dennis Kucinich (OH) and Rep. Thomas Price (GA) • Country: French Guiana (168,000) on the northern coast of South America • Major language: French • Religious freedom • 85% Christian; 9.5% non-Religious/Other; 2% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Trust the Lord for deliverance in times of trouble (Ps. 50:15).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 15:8

[Judy Harder]

Read Matthew 21 -- 22

Highlights In Today's Reading:

We seek the Lord, but will we recognize His presence (21:10-11); defile His Temple (us) (21:12-13); produce fruit (21:18-22)? The chosen ones of God reject Him so He looks elsewhere (21:43). A heavenly parable: The king is rejected and looks elsewhere (22:1-10). The great Commandment (22:37-38) and the next (22:39-40).
Near the last week of the earthly life of Jesus, He took the twelve disciples apart . . . and said . . . the Son of Man shall be betrayed unto the chief priests and unto the scribes, and they shall condemn Him to death . . . to crucify Him: and the third day He shall rise again (20:17-19).

Jesus was near Jerusalem on (Palm) Sunday morning to present Himself as King of the Kingdom of Heaven. He sent His disciples to bring Him an ass (donkey) and its colt. All this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying, Tell ye the daughter of Sion, Behold, thy King cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an ass (donkey) (21:4-5; see Zech 9:9).

As Jesus had foretold, He went to Jerusalem knowing He would be rejected by the elders, priests, and scribes and be put to death. He went there in willing obedience to God the Father (John 10:15,17-18; 14:31) to fulfill prophecy as the promised Messiah King.

Pilgrims had come to participate in the Passover Feast, one of the three annual observances at which God had commanded all Israelite males to appear before Him at Jerusalem (Ex. 23:14-17). The people hailed Jesus as their long-awaited King, spreading their garments in the way as men formerly had done for kings (II Kin. 9:12-13). They cried: Hosanna to the Son of David (they hailed Jesus as the Messiah): Blessed is He that cometh in the Name of the Lord (Matt. 21:8-9). But, the chief priests and scribes angrily said to Him: Hearest Thou what these say? And Jesus saith unto them, Yea; have ye never read, Out of the mouth of babes . . . Thou hast perfected praise? (21:15-16).

Although Jesus had foretold: The Son of Man shall be betrayed unto the chief priests . . . and they shall condemn Him to death, the religious leaders were powerless to do so that day because of the overwhelming acceptance of Jesus by the people.

We are 2000 years closer to Jesus' return to earth. Then shall appear the sign of the Son of Man in heaven . . . and they shall see the Son of Man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory (Matt. 24:30).

Thought for Today:

In all places where I record My Name I will come unto thee, and I will bless thee (Ex. 20:24).
Word Studies:

21:2 over against you =ahead of you; facing you; 21:8 strawed . . . in the way =spread in His path; 21:33 husbandmen =tenant farmers; 21:42 The Stone . . . is become the Head of the corner =Christ (Ps.118:22-23) who is the Chief Cornerstone (Eph. 2:20; I Pet. 2:6).
Cross References:

For Matt. 21:5: See Is. 62:11; Zech. 9:9. Matt. 21:9: See Ps. 118:26. Matt. 21:13: See Is. 56:7; Jer. 7:11. Matt. 21:16: See Ps. 8:2. Matt. 21:33: See Ps. 80:8-9; Is. 5:1-2. Matt. 21:42: See Ps. 118:22-23. Matt. 22:24: See Deut. 25:5. Matt. 22:32: See Ex. 3:6. Matt. 22:37: See Deut. 6:5. Matt. 22:39: See Lev. 19:18. Matt. 22:44: See Ps. 110:1.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Shortwave Broadcasts in honor of Rick Hash • Staff: Rita Guerra • Government Officials: Rep. Artur Davis (AL) and Rep. Tom Perriello (VA) • Country: Gabon (1 million) in west-central Africa • Major language: French • Religious freedom • 66% Roman Catholic; 30% Protestant; 3% animism and ancestor worship • Prayer Suggestion: Confess your sins and ask the Lord to restore the joy of your salvation (Ps. 51:1-3,12).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 15:8  

[Judy Harder]

Saturday, October 10, 2009 

Read Matthew 23 -- 24

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Shocking news of the horrible fate of hypocritical religious leaders revealed (23:1-36)! Jesus deeply grieves over Jerusalem like He does for those who reject Him today (23:37-39). Only God knows the day (24:36)!
Jesus, as Lord of the Temple (and all people and things), had driven out the moneychangers (21:12-13; Mark 11:15-17; Luke 19:45-46; John 2:14-16) and exposed the hypocrisy of the religious leaders. The pretended piety of the Pharisees and the scribes had won for both a reputation of religious superiority. Still less spiritual were the liberal Sadducees, who neither pretended nor practiced worship as revealed by God to Moses.

During His last day in the Temple, our Lord strongly denounced these religious leaders, calling the Pharisees hypocrites . . . (who) for a pretence make long prayer. . . . outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity. . . . ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell? (Matt. 23:13-33). Jesus concluded His condemnation by saying: Behold, your House (the Temple) is left unto you desolate (forsaken by God) (23:38).

Then Jesus went east of Jerusalem and sat on the Mount of Olives with His disciples. As they admired the Temple, Jesus said: There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down. And as He sat upon the Mount of Olives, the disciples came unto Him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of Thy coming, and of the end of the world? (24:2-3).

The reply Jesus gave was threefold. It included the soon-to-come destruction of Jerusalem, the far more distant time of His earthly return, and the still later end of the (present) world (age). Jesus made it known that of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but My Father only (24:36). The chief purpose of prophecy should always be an incentive to personal spiritual growth and living in expectation of the imminent return of Christ. Therefore be ye also ready (24:44).

Our greatest concern should be to respond to the appeal of the Holy Spirit who led Peter to record: Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the Day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat. . . . Wherefore, beloved . . . be diligent that ye may be found of Him in peace, without spot, and blameless (II Pet. 3:12,14).

Thought for Today:

When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with Him in glory (Col. 3:4).
Word Studies:

23:5 phylacteries =scripture texts in small boxes worn by some Jews to impress others of their religious zeal; 23:15 compass =to "go about," or "go around," sea and land; 23:29 garnish =decorate, adorn.
Cross References:

For Matt. 23:39: See Ps. 118:26. Matt. 24:15: See Dan. 9:27; 11:31; 12:11. Matt. 24:29: See Is. 13:10; 24:23; 34:4; Ez. 32:7; Joel 2:10,31; 3:15; Zeph. 1:15. Matt. 24:30: See Dan. 7:13. Matt. 24:31: See Deut. 30:4; Is. 27:13; Zech. 2:6. Matt. 24:38: See Gen. 6:3-5; 7:7.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Bible Pathway Printer: Ambrose Printing Staff, Nashville TN • Government Official: Rep. Joseph Pitts (PA) • Country: Gambia (1 million) in West Africa • Major languages: English and Mandinka • Religious freedom • 87% Muslim; 10% animism and ancestral spirit worship; 2% Roman Catholic; .7% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Ask for forgiveness for particular sins (Ps. 51:1-9).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 15:8