Jesus journeyed from Israelite territory into Gentile territory. Mark’s account notes this decision was one made for the purpose of concealment, possibly from His enemies (cf. Mark 7:24). Despite the efforts to remain hidden, “a woman of Canaan,” who was in utter distress, found Him. This, along with the following scene, speaks of the woman’s …
Continue reading Matthew 15:21-28
Jesus stated in Matthew 19 the original design of marriage by God – “So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate” (Matthew 19:6). This is what God intended for mankind. Nevertheless, divorce was rampant among the nations – Israel included. Thus, God permitted …
Continue reading Pondering Scripture: Matthew 5:31-32The given text records the first four disciples called by our Lord after being tempted in the wilderness (cf. 4:1-11). These four men were “two brothers, Simon called Peter, and Andrew” and “two other brothers, James the son of Zebedee and John.” In order to understand their response to the Lord’s demand, it is important …
Continue reading Pondering Scripture: Matthew 4:18-22In Matthew’s record of the sermon on the mount Jesus speaks of His disciples as the “salt of the earth.” Salt is flavoring, and is used in preserving meat. We Christians are God’s means of saving the world from eternal punishment. We are to season this bland and sinful world! We are to preserve it …
Continue reading Pondering Scripture: Matthew 5:13-16