The Great Commission: these words are not actually used in the Bible. But Jesus gave his disciples (and us) a task, a mission; and He gave us the authority to spread the great news of His coming – and His resurrection. This is the fundamental event of history (1 Corinthians 15:17-19). Central to Christianity. Jesus showed His authority in teaching. He showed His authority over disease, nature, sin and death. He calls us to participate in sharing this news. Go,…
All history points to the crucifixion and subsequent resurrection (Matthew 27:27-54). The cross is a scandal (1 Cor 1:18); it makes no sense to invent such a thing – to use a device of torture as a symbol of grace. This idea of sacrifice is alarming (especially the sacrifice of Jesus); could there be another way? Even Jesus asked this question. The night of His death, He prayed; “Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me,” but…
The night of Jesus’ imminent betrayal and arrest, He shared Passover with His disciples (Matthew 26:17-35). During this meal, Jesus aligned the historical reminder of Israel’s deliverance from Egypt with a new covenant, one of His blood and His body instead of the sacrificial Passover lamb. Some people may see this exercise as an empty ritual. But it is a deeply meaningful tradition. Communion brings the identity of God’s people from the past to the present. It ties the experience…
Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 24:42-25:13, regarding the end times, is a challenging section of scripture. It is more about how we should live in light of His promised return, not so much what the world tends to be fascinated with. It is not about apocalyptic predictions – whether through movies, media, or date-setting. Jesus calls His followers to something different: faithful, expectant waiting. Instead of fear or frenzy, Jesus calls us to readiness, trust, and daily faithfulness. Live today as…