Tag Archives: Matthew

Matthew 2- The Magi

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Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him. When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born. And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet, And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel. Matthew 2:1-6

Some of the most mysterious characters in the Bible are the Magi or Wise Men. Who are these guys? Where did they come from? The Magi were from Persia , which is modern day Iran. So the Magi traveled about 900 miles on camelback to find the Christ child. Now it’s obvious the Magi were familiar with many of the Messianic Prophecies of the Old Testament, including Micah 5:2 which says the Messiah will be born in Bethlehem. They were also familiar with the prophecy of Numbers 24:17 about the star as a sign of the Messiah

During their journey to Bethlehem , the Magi traveled through Jerusalem and met with King Herod, who heard about the coming of The Messiah, a King above all Kings. Herod instantly became threatened by Christ, and pretended to want to worship Jesus , however truly he just wanted to kill him. Which we will see later caused the horrific event known as “Rachel’s weeping”

The Magi were very intelligent , hence the name “Wise Man” they were known as your experts of the time, such as we look upon doctors or scholars today. The Magi were also a fulfillment of prophecy themselves as foretold by Isaiah “And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising. “ (Isaiah 60:3) “

Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, inquired of them diligently what time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also. When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh. And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way Matthew 2:7-12

So how did the Magi find  Jesus? They followed the star , which was prophesied in Numbers 24:17, to the town of Bethlehem prophesied by Micah 5:2. It’s often tradition in our Nativity scenes, to have 3 wise men. Well first thing is we don’t know exactly how many Magi made the trip, we assume 3 because of the gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Secondly , by the time the Magi found Jesus, it says he was a “young child”, it was most likely the Magi visited Jesus at his house and not in the manger. It could have potentially been months, maybe years until the Magi reached Bethlehem and found Jesus.

The most significant point to get from this, is that the Magi were Gentiles coming to worship the Messiah, the New Covenant has now arrived through Jesus. Salvation is now possibly, not only to the Jews but also the Gentiles who put their faith in Christ! Amen!

Matthew 1- Incarnation of Christ

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Now 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. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. Matthew 1:18-20

Every year around Christmas time, the great debate begins among Christians, “Should we celebrate the birth of Christ”? While many Christians opt to celebrate Hanukkah instead, which wasn’t commanded by God either and has no relevance to the New Covenant. The  Incarnation of Christ is a central and essential doctrine of Christianity. If Christ didn’t become human there would be no atonement for your sins!

Mary was a virgin and she conceived the Son of God by the Holy Spirit. The Incarnation, much like the Triunity of God, is difficult for us to wrap our human minds around. Often people who can’t comprehend it, just reject it like the Triunity of God. Just because you can’t understand something doesn’t mean it’s not true. If God is truly the Creator of everything, don’t you think He will be a little complex? The reality is The Incarnation of Christ had to happen to save humanity, the Son of God had to become a man to pay for the sins of the world

And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife: And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS. Matthew 1:21-25

The Apostle Matthew felt the Incarnation of Christ was so important, that he began his gospel writing with it. Why? Well because 700 years earlier the prophet Isaiah foretold The Messiah would come from a virgin (Isaiah 7:14) What will be the sign of the Messiah? God said “A virgin will give birth to a Son and he will be called Immanuel” Matthew goes on to give us further commentary that Immanuel means “God Is With Us”, think about that God became flesh and lived among Us (John 1:14)

And if there is any doubt God said His name will be Jesus (Yeshua) and He will save us from our sins. Christians have gotten so distracted around Christmas with arguments about paganism, that they forget or miss what happened in that manger in Bethlehem!

The sign was delivered by God, the Son of God becoming human to reconcile us back to The Father. The New Covenant is now upon us, Thank you Jesus! Amen!

Jesus Is Risen Part 2

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In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre. And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it. Matthew 28:1-2

It amazes me how there are some Christians who like to argue the resurrection happened on the Sabbath. The scriptures are very clear here, it was on the first day of the week (Sunday) that the stone was rolled away!

Here we see the woman coming to see Jesus’s grave and a great earthquake happened due to an Angel descending down from Heaven. The Stone is Rolled Away! Jesus Is Risen, death is defeated! What an amazing event , we should be celebrating the resurrection every day not just Easter!

His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow: And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men. Matthew 28:3-4

Lets think about this, the Roman soldiers , who made a living torturing and terrorizing people, fell like dead men here! As I said before on Palm Sunday, Jesus didn’t come to just save Israel , Jesus came to save the entire world, including the Roman soldiers. Many Romans fell to their knees and repented to the one true living God

And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. Matthew 28:5-6

The angel came to announce the good news , Jesus Is Risen! There is no better news you’ll ever hear but these words. No matter what is going on in our lives, Jesus has overcome the world! As the angel said “Fear Not”! We worship a Risen Savior , there is no need to fear!

And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you. And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word. Matthew 28:7-8

Notice what the angel said “Go quickly and tell the disciples Jesus Is Risen” You are also commanded to tell everyone “Jesus Is Risen”! This is the gospel , Jesus defeated Sin and Death so we may inherit eternal life

The woman left the tomb with Great Joy! We can have great joy also no matter what the circumstance are because Jesus Is Risen Amen!

Sermon On The Mount

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And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him: And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying, Matthew 5:1-2

The Sermon on the Mount, the Beatitudes, probably the greatest sermon ever given in history. This is what set the tone for the New Covenant. Jesus was not rewriting the Mosaic Law, he was bringing further explanation and fulfillment to it

Notice when Moses received the Law from God, he was on a Mountain, Jesus is on the Mountain, but he is given the revelation of The Law!

Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:3

Who are the poor in spirit? When we think of poor, we often relate it to material wealth, this is not what Jesus is talking about. Hes talking about a spiritual poorness, the original Greek word here is (ptochoi) which also means humble. As the Bible says, Pride leads to destruction, blessed are those who humble themselves before God and repent!

Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Matthew 5:4

The original Greek word here for mourn is (penthountes) this means to feel guilt. Again I think Jesus is referring to true repentance. Blessed are those who mourn for their sin, they shall be forgiven! Also we can look at our mourning for justice! All the evil in this world will one day be dealt with!

Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Matthew 5:5

The original Greek word for Meek is (praeis) this word can mean gentle but also humble. Again those who humble themselves before God (repent) will inherit the Earth. Notice Jesus reference to the New Heavens and Earth (Revelation 21) Jesus isn’t talking about floating on clouds , hes talking about Gods Kingdom coming to Earth

Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Matthew 5:6

Jesus isn’t talking about a physical hunger, hes talking about a spiritual hunger. A desire for righteousness, a desire for Gods justice and redemption. Again I believe Jesus is referencing repentance again and justice that will be served!

Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Matthew 5:7

The original Greek word for merciful is (eleemones) meaning compassion and pity. Remember Jesus said unless we forgive others, we cant be forgiven. Show the mercy and love Christ showed us to others including your enemies

Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Matthew 5:8

How can we become pure in heart? Jesus said unless we become Born Again, we wont see the Kingdom of Heaven (John 3:3) I believe Jesus is referencing becoming Born Again. Only through Christ can we become Pure in Heart!

Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Matthew 5:9

Jesus taught us we should “Love our Enemies” (Luke 6:35) This is a difficult task at times, however we must remember before we became saved, we were enemies of God also. The Bible also tells us to “Strive to Live in Peace with everyone” (Romans 12:18)

Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:10

Our first reaction is how can we be blessed when we are being persecuted? Notice it says persecuted for righteousness, so that’s not saying any martyr is justified. God knows everything that happens in this world, every drop of blood, every tear shed will be paid for! God knows your persecution for his sake and you will be rewarded!

Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Matthew 5:11

Jesus said we will be hated for his name sake (Matthew 10:22) Don’t worry whether everyone rejects you due to Christ, because you are blessed by your Heavenly Father. Great will be your reward in the Kingdom!

These are the powerful statements and revelations given by our Lord Jesus Christ! This is the foundation of our faith! Meditate on these words and let them grow in your heart Amen!

Fear No Evil

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For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7
Fear can control us, it can manipulate us, it can cause great stress or anxiety. Until we learn to break the chains of fear, it’s difficult to live a peaceful life
As Jesus said in Matthew 10:28 And 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.
Often we focus too much on the present world and not on our eternal world. This life we live right now is not our final destination. When you start looking at the big picture and putting things in perspective, our daily struggles start to minimize.
Now I’m not trying to downplay life. I know there are some major struggles in life and we should be thankful for the life were giving and make the most of it. But don’t sweat the small stuff.
You didn’t get that promotion, in the end it really doesn’t matter. God has a more important job for your in Heaven. Your struggling to pay your bills, God has mansions and streets of gold that have your name on them
As it says in 1 Corinthians 7:31 “Those who use the things of the world, as if not engrossed in them. For this world in its present form is passing away.”
Once we keep our minds focused on Gods promises, we suddenly see the world thru different eyes. Big problems start to look small.
Once we learn to live fearless like Kind David in Psalm 23:4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
With God Fear can no longer control you; once the enemy knows they can’t control you they flee. Your chains are then broken and victory will be yours in Jesus name Amen

Beginning of Wisdom

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The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. Proverbs 9:10
What does this scripture mean to you? How can wisdom come from fear? How can understanding come from knowledge?
When people don’t acknowledge the greatness of God or his abilities, they become fools. As it says in Romans 1:22 “Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,”
People who believe they are greater than their creator; or who believe they can live reckless life with no consequences or authority are simply fools.
As God said in Jeremiah 4:22 My people are fools; they do not know me. They are senseless children; they have no understanding. They are skilled in doing evil; they know not how to do good.”
When we understand God breathed life into us and made us in his image; he gave us this life as a gift; we then start to obtain the wisdom of his Word in the scriptures. But until you can accept God as your master, you can never accept wisdom or understanding.
You do have a choice though. You have the freedom of free will and you can follow Satan’s path of sin. However when you decide to walk that path you will end up in the same destination as Satan, the Lake of Fire. As it says in Matthew 7:19 Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.
So if you want to know if you or somebody else is really living a Christian lifestyle, check there fruit. Are you producing good fruit? Is your family broken or blessed? Is your personal life a mess? Are you drowning in debt? These are a few areas you can check your fruit.
When they say “Fear the Lord” it’s out of respect, honor, and most importantly love. Just as you would “fear” a parent or guardian. It’s not a dictatorship because you have the choice. You can follow Jesus to Eternal life or follow Satan to destruction.
I pray that everyone receives and understand the greatness of God; therefore thru Jesus and the Holy Spirit you can begin to obtain wisdom and knowledge that will lead you to your divine destiny Amen

Who is your Master?

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“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money. Matthew 6:24
What master are you serving? What are you devoting all your time to?
America, just like the world, is obsessed with money. People work incredibly long hours, neglecting there families, so they can move up the ladder hoping for that big promotion.
What is there true motivation behind this? Of course money! Now everyone uses the excuse “I gotta feed my family, ect” but what your really feeding is your ego.
You want the fancy car, the big house, the eloquent job title. But guess what? Not only are all those material items going to eventually fade away your career will too. You might be valuable to a company now but later on in your life you become a liability to them and replaceable by the next young hotshot.
What you do have that is permanent is your family and God. No matter how old you get, or how little money you make you will always be loved by both.
Now I agree it’s good to have a strong work ethic and it is Biblical to work hard, but if you’re a slave to money it will own you.
Guess what you want to work stay involved in your family or community. There is no harder job than raising kids or helping people in need. And the rewards are priceless. If you invest the time with your family you will be close forever but if you invest no time in your family don’t expect them to even know you
Don’t wait until it’s too late to realize you should have spent more time with your family make a commitment today and say “As for me and my house we will serve the Lord and not money”
I pray that parents don’t fall for the greed of this world and appreciate the gift of family that God gave them Amen

Judgement is not Ours

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How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? Matthew 7:4

 Many times we might find ourselves judging other people; however Jesus has taught us that judgment is not our responsibility but his.

We need to learn to continually reflect on our own actions and not others; this will enable us to grow and improve as Christians

As it says in Luke  6:37 “”Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.”

Very powerful scripture basically saying our judgment will be based on how we judge others. Pretty much like do unto others as they would do unto you.

Does this mean we should disregard people’s sin? I say no, hate the sin but don’t hate the sinner.

We want to be merciful and empathetic towards people, however this doesn’t mean we should allow anything to go. For example some Christian denominations are allowing homosexual marriages.

Anyone who is a Christian should know Homosexuality is forbidden by God and an abomination. Also God would never recognize the covenant between a homosexual couples anyway.

Does that mean I judge homosexuals? Of course not,  as I said ultimate judgment is not ours. However we should live to please God and not endorse homosexuality. As it says in 1 Corinthians 24:7 So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.

So what can we do as Christians to lead people to Christ? Well first we all know that we are all sinners and fall short of the Glory to God.  Nobody has any hope of redemption except thru Jesus Christ What we can do is live by example, let Jesus live thru us.

As a Christian there’s a very fine line we need to walk, which can be very difficult. On one hand we need to be non judgmental but on the other hand we need to stay firm with the commandments of God

What I do know is the ultimate judgment is not ours; therefore we put our faith in Christ and follow his path. Keep spreading the Gospel and be a servant to others. The rest is in Gods hands Amen