Jesus confronted the religious leaders of Jerusalem shortly before his crucifixion. He criticized them for hypocrisy and contrasts the outward show of righteousness with inner corruption, like tombs that appear white on the outside but are full of dead bones inside (Matthew 23). This reflects a larger theme of rebellion against God’s ways and the rejection of the Messiah. Jesus’ words echo his earlier teachings in the Sermon on the Mount, emphasizing humility, authentic obedience, and integrity. He warns of…
Throughout the Gospel of Matthew a picture of the Kingdom of Heaven is being presented. (Matthew 19:16 – 20:28) Jesus describes an upside-down kingdom that reflects the character of its King—marked by generosity, grace, and servanthood rather than power, wealth, or status. It begins now, overlapping with this world as Jesus rules in the hearts of His followers, calling them to humility, forgiveness, and sacrificial love that mirror His own life and mission.
Jesus holds up humility as an essential character of the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 18:1-4). Note the humility of a child: sincere, sensitive, and simple. The humblest child has the ability to influence many souls. Forgiveness is a characteristic of the kingdom as well (Matthew 18:21-35). You can’t even count the importance and value of forgiveness. God’s forgiveness is extreme; forgiveness is divine.
God reveals. The question is: what does God show us, and what should our response be? In Matthew 16:13-20. Jesus asks Peter, “Who do you say I am?” He responded, “You are the Christ.” But Peter’s expectation of what that meant was a bit inaccurate. Jesus teaches that He was to suffer and die. We need to take up our cross and die to ourselves (Matthew 16:21-28). Then, Jesus presented Himself transformed, in glory and wonder (Matthew 17:1-8). What is…
