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# Meeting With Christ

Practical and Exegetical Studies on the Words of Jesus-Christ

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## Projects

- [John 14.21 | I will manifest myself (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/john-1421-i-will-manifest-myself-1/) - In discussing the existence of God with non-believers, there are typical questions that can be expected. ‘Prove to me that God exists. Where is God now? Show me that He is real. How can I believe in someone that I don’t see?’ These are certainly fair questions but as we know, they are not necessarily easy to answer. It is not like showing a building to a person. We can understand a nonbeliever when he asks this type of questions. But when it comes from a disciple, it can be somewhat puzzling. Take for example John 14.
- [John 14.21 | I will manifest myself (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/john-1421-i-will-manifest-myself-2/) - This lesson is the second part of a study on the words of Jesus in John 14.21 where the Lord said, I will manifest myself. We saw the last time that when Jesus said, I will manifest myself, He was referring to His resurrection. I will manifest myself means ‘You will see me in my resurrected body, three days after my death.’ We also saw that the resurrection is the central point of Jesus’ teaching. Everything depends on it. Without the resurrection, there is no Christianity to talk about.
- [Luke 9.23 | Let him take up his cross daily (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-9-23-let-him-take-up-his-cross-daily-2/) - Today we will look at the cross from another angle. We will look at it from the point of view of its glory. Not only there is power in the cross, but there is also a glorious aspect to the cross. We will see how this is expressed in the Bible.
- [Luke 9.62 | No man who looks back is fit for the kingdom](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-962-no-man-who-looks-back-is-fit-for-the-kingdom/) - This is what the Lord Jesus declares in Luke 9:62. Luke 9:62. But Jesus said to him, "No one, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God."
- [Luke 9.23 | Let him take up his cross daily (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-9-23-let-him-take-up-his-cross-daily-1/) - I think it is fair to say that Christianity is a religion of power, a religion in which there is power. Christianity being a religion of power, we can also say that Christians.
- [Luke 2.14 | Peace toward men of good will (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-214-peace-toward-men-of-good-will-1/) - The coming of the Messiah is a major theme of the OT. It is constantly repeated throughout the pages of the OT. In the NT, we are told that it is the angels who have the privilege to announce the imminent coming of Christ. We read in the gospel of Luke, in the nativity account, the incident in which an angel makes this surprising revelation: …I bring you good news of a great joy which shall be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord (Luke 2:10-11).
- [Luke 2.14 | Peace toward men of good will (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-214-peace-toward-men-of-good-will-2/) - You will remember that in our last lesson, we were talking about the message of the angels found in Luke 2:14. The angels gave glory to God and they said in that verse, On earth peace among men with whom He is pleased. Peace toward men of good will.
- [Luke 2.49 | I must be about my Father's business](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-249-i-must-be-about-my-fathers-business/) - The first recorded words of our Lord Jesus are found in Luke 2:49. This is what we read. Luke 2:49. And He (Jesus) said to them (to his parents), "Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father's business?"
- [Matthew 3.13-17 | The baptism of Jesus](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-313-17-the-baptism-of-jesus/) - We will study today a topic that is not necessarily too popular nowadays. And this topic is about submission. Today we want to insist on equality. Equality of rights. Equality between the genders. Equality between the different races. Equality between the social classes. And thank God that by this insistence on equality, we have dealt, at least to a certain extent, with some injustice in our world. But let us not be blinded by this insistence on equality to the fact that submission is also a part of God's message for us. In fact, when I read the Bible, it seems to me that the Scriptures insist more on the matter of submission than on the matter of equality.
- [Luke 4.1-4 | The temptation of Christ (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-41-4-the-temptation-of-christ-1/) - I would like to invite you to open your Bible and read Luke 4:1-4. This is what we find.
- [Luke 4.5-8 | The temptation of Christ (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-45-8-the-temptation-of-christ-2/) - We will continue today our study of the temptation of Christ, as we explore more deeply the meaning of the temptation.
- [Luke 4.9-13 | The temptation of Christ (3)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-49-13-the-temptation-of-christ-3/) - Today we will continue and conclude our study of the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness. If you have heard the first two lessons of this series, I hope that you are beginning to see how Satan can be subtle.
- [John 2.13-22 | In three days I will raise it up](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/john-213-22-in-three-days-i-will-raise-it-up/) - The Jews considered the temple to be God’s house. But the arrival of Jesus altered this understanding of the temple. The glory of God will be found somewhere else. Jesus alluded to this change early in His ministry, in John 2:13-22. Let’s look at this incident.
- [John 3.14-15 | The bronze serpent](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/the-bronze-serpent/) - If I were to ask you to quote John 3:16, I am pretty sure that most of you would be able to do it. For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life. But if I ask you, ‘What are the two verses that come before John 3:16,’ I am not sure that the response will be as quick. Have you ever noticed the words that precede the well-known John 3:16? In other words, what is the context of John 3:16?
- [Matthew 4.17 | Repent](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-417-repent/) - I would like to invite you to open your Bible and to turn with me to Matthew 4:17. And this is what we read. Matthew 4:17. From that time Jesus began to preach and say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”
- [Matthew 4.18-22 | I will make you fishers of men](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-418-22-i-will-make-you-fishers-of-men/) - Today I would like to talk to you about Jesus’ concept of discipleship, the Lord’s teaching concerning discipleship. And for this, we will look at the passage in Matthew 4:18-22. This is what we read.
- [Matthew 4.18-22 | Called to be saints](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-418-22-called-to-be-saints/) - In our previous lesson, we were studying Matthew 4:18-22. And you will remember that we focused our attention on Jesus’ statement when He said, Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men. It was a lesson in which we stressed the notion of discipleship, discipleship from Jesus’ perspective. And I drew your attention to the fact that the word ‘disciple’ is used 268 times in the NT: 238 times in the gospels and 30 times in the book of Acts, for a total of 268.
- [Matthew 24:24 | False Christs and false prophets will arise](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-2424-false-christs-and-false-prophets-will-arise/) - The Lord Jesus taught that at the end of the age, many false prophets will appear and they will try to deceive people. They will be able to perform miracles so as to convince people that their claims are true. They will be so convincing that they might even fool God's chosen ones. Let's read this passage. Matthew 24:24.
- [Matthew 5.3 | Blessed are the poor in spirit](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-53-blessed-are-the-poor-in-spirit/) - With this lesson, we will begin a series of studies on the Beatitudes. The Beatitudes, as you know, is the Lord's description of what a Christian should be in his character. If you want to know what are the spiritual qualities that God expects of a Christian, meditate on the Beatitudes. I am sure that you have heard and read a lot of material on the Beatitudes. But this part of the Lord's teaching is so important that I think we should never cease to reflect on it again and again. So today, we will examine Matthew 5:3, a verse which the Lord Jesus addressed to His disciples in the presence of a great multitude. He begins the Sermon on the Mount with these words. Matthew 5:3. Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
- [Matthew 5.4 | Blessed are those who mourn](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-54-blessed-are-those-who-mourn/) - We will continue today our exposition of the teaching of our Lord Jesus on the Beatitudes. And here is the second Beatitude that we find in the gospel of Matthew. Matthew 5:4 reads like this. Matthew 5:4. Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
- [Matthew 5.5 | Blessed are the meek (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-55-blessed-are-the-meek-1/) - We will continue today our exploration of the Beatitudes of our Lord Jesus. We come now to the third Beatitude found in the gospel of Matthew. This is what we read in Matthew 5:5. Matthew 5:5. Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. Happy is the man who is meek. Happy is he because God has blessed this man, because he shall inherit the earth. What does it mean to be meek? In today’s lesson, this is the question that I will try to answer. What kind of person does the Lord Jesus refer to when He talks about the meek?
- [Matthew 5.5 | Blessed are the meek (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-55-blessed-are-the-meek-2/) - In our last lesson, we studied the third Beatitude of the Lord Jesus, Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. In that lesson, we focused our attention on the meaning of meekness. We tried to answer the question, ‘What did Jesus have in might when He speaks of the meek?’ We saw that the meek are those who are righteous. You cannot be meek without being righteous. We saw also that the meek are those who know to wait for the Lord. They are those who let God be their defense. And finally, we saw that the meek are generous. They give and give, and give. You will remember that we drew these conclusions from the OT, more specifically from Psalm 37.
- [Matthew 5.6 | Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-56-blessed-are-those-who-hunger-and-thirst-for-righteousness/) - The fourth Beatitude taught by our Lord Jesus in the gospel of Matthew reads like this. Matthew 5:6. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.
- [Matthew 5.7 | Blessed are the merciful](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-57-blessed-are-the-merciful/) - We will continue today our study of the Beatitudes. In Matthew 5:7, we find the fifth Beatitude and we read this. Matthew 5:7. Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.
- [Matthew 5.8 | Blessed are the pure in heart](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-58-blessed-are-the-pure-in-heart/) - We will study today the sixth Beatitude of our Lord Jesus. This is what we read in Matthew 5:8. Matthew 5:8. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
- [Matthew 5.9 | Blessed are the peacemakers](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-59-blessed-are-the-peacemakers/) - The Bible is very much concerned about peace. The Lord Jesus makes mention of those who make peace in the Beatitudes. This is what He says in Matthew 5:9. Matthew 5:9. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
- [Matthew 5.10-12 | Blessed are those who are persecuted](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-510-12-blessed-are-those-who-are-persecuted/) - The last Beatitude in the gospel of Matthew reads like this. Matthew 5:10. Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. 12 Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
- [Matthew 5.1-12 | The Beatitudes and the fruit of the Spirit (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-51-12-the-beatitudes-and-the-fruit-of-the-spirit-1/) - We have now studied all the Beatitudes individually. Today, we want to consider them together and see whether there is an internal relationship between these Beatitudes. Is there some kind of order, some kind of unity, some kind of direction in these Beatitudes?
- [Matthew 5.1-12 | The Beatitudes and the fruit of the Spirit (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-51-12-the-beatitudes-and-the-fruit-of-the-spirit-2/) - We saw in our previous lesson that there is an internal unity in the Beatitudes, and we described this unity in terms of the relationship between the Beatitudes and the fruit of the Spirit. We mentioned that the Beatitudes have to do with the qualities of the heart of the Christian whereas the fruit of the Spirit deals with the work of the Holy Spirit in the person who has these qualities.
- [Luke 10.25-37 | The parable of the good Samaritan](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-1025-37-the-parable-of-the-good-samaritan/) - The parable of the good Samaritan is familiar to most people, even to non-Christians. In fact, the term ‘good Samaritan’ has become part of our culture and vocabulary. There is a law called ‘the Good Samaritan law.’ Some hospitals and institutions bear that name too. This lesson will focus more on the context of the parable than on the story itself. Let’s read Luke 10:25-37.
- [Luke 9.23 | Let him deny himself](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-9-23-let-him-deny-himself/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Header” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” use_background_color_gradient=”on” background_color_gradient_direction=”124deg” background_color_gradient_stops=”rgba(255,255,255,0.1) 30%|#ffcf00 90%” background_color_gradient_start=”rgba(255,255,255,0.1)” background_color_gradient_start_position=”30%” background_color_gradient_end=”#ffcf00″ background_color_gradient_end_position=”90%” background_image=”https://meetingwithchrist.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Entretiens-chretiens-background-42-1.png” background_position=”bottom_center” overflow-x=”hidden” custom_padding=”5vw||5vw||true|” border_color_all=”#B28D35″ border_width_left=”10px” saved_tabs=”all” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”40px|||” custom_padding_tablet=”0vw|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Intro text” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”||||||||” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”20px” text_line_height=”1.8em” link_font=”||||on||||” link_text_color=”#26e226″ header_font=”|800|||||||” header_text_color=”#000000″ header_font_size=”3em” header_line_height=”1.1em” custom_margin=”||30px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ text_font_size_tablet=”18px” text_font_size_phone=”16px” text_font_size_last_edited=”on|desktop” text_line_height_tablet=”1.8em”
- [Matthew 5.1-12 | The Beatitudes and the Lord's Prayer](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-51-12-the-beatitudes-and-the-lords-prayer/) - After studying the Beatitudes one by one, we looked at them together to see whether they form some kind of unified whole. This led us to see the connection between the Beatitudes and the fruit of the Spirit. Today, we will consider another kind of relationship, and it is the connection between the Beatitudes and the Lord’s Prayer.
- [Matthew 5.13 | You are the salt of the earth (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-513-you-are-the-salt-of-the-earth-1/) - We have completed our study in the Beatitudes and we come now to Matthew 5:13, a passage that describes the Christians as being the salt of the earth. Let us read Matthew 5:13. Matthew 5:13. You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything, but is thrown out and trampled under foot.
- [Matthew 5.13 | You are the salt of the earth (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-513-you-are-the-salt-of-the-earth-2/) - In our previous lesson, we studied the words of our Lord Jesus in Matthew 5:13. This is what He said. Matthew 5:13. You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything, but is thrown out and trampled under foot.
- [Matthew 5.14-16 | You are the light of the world](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-514-16-you-are-the-light-of-the-world/) - Our Lord Jesus, in Matthew 5:14-16, uses a metaphor to teach us something very important. In this metaphor, He likens His disciples to light. This is what He says. Matthew 5:14. "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 "Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16 "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
- [Matthew 5.17-20 | I have come to fulfill the law](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-517-20-i-have-come-to-fulfill-the-law/) - Today I would like us to look at an important passage, important because this passage establishes the relationship between the OT and the NT. Let’s turn to Matthew 5:17-20. Here the Lord Jesus says this. "Matthew 5:17. Do not think that I came to destroy the law or the prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. 18 For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled. 19 Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20 For I say to you, that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven."
- [Matthew 5.21-26 | Thou shall not kill](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-521-26-thou-shall-not-kill/) - In Matthew 5:21-26, we find these words that come from the mouth of our Lord Jesus. Matthew 5:21. You have heard that it was said to the men of old, ‘You shall not kill; and whoever kills shall be liable to judgment.' 22 But I say to you that every one who is angry with his brother shall be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother shall be liable to the council, and whoever says, ‘You fool!' shall be liable to the hell of fire. 23 So if you are offering your gift at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, 24 leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. 25 Make friends quickly with your accuser, while you are going with him to court, lest your accuser hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the guard, and you be put in prison; 26 truly, I say to you, you will never get out till you have paid the last penny.
- [Matthew 5.27-30 | Thou shall not commit adultery](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-527-30-thou-shall-not-commit-adultery/) - I would like to invite you to turn to the teaching of our Lord Jesus in Matthew 5:27-30. This is what Jesus says on the matter of adultery. Matthew 5:27. You have heard that it was said to those of old, 'You shall not commit adultery.' 28 But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. 29 If your right eye causes you to sin, pluck it out and cast it from you; for it is more profitable for you that one of your members perish, than for your whole body to be cast into hell. 30 And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and cast it from you; for it is more profitable for you that one of your members perish, than for your whole body to be cast into hell.
- [Matthew 5.33-37 | Swear not at all](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-533-37-swear-not-at-all/) - We will examine today the words of our Lord Jesus in Matthew 5:33-37. This is a passage that deals with the matter of oath and swearing. Matthew 5:33-37 reads like this. Matthew 5:33. Again you have heard that it was said to those of old, 'You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform your oaths to the Lord.' 34 But I say to you, do not swear at all: neither by heaven, for it is God's throne; 35 nor by the earth, for it is His footstool; nor by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. 36 Nor shall you swear by your head, because you cannot make one hair white or black. 37 But let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No.' For whatever is more than these is from the evil one.
- [Matthew 5.38-42 | Turn to him the other cheek](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-538-42-turn-to-him-the-other-cheek/) - Some time ago, I was working with someone who asked me about my religion. The question came rather suddenly. We were having a superficial conversation when he asked me, ‘By the way, what’s your religion?’ He thought that I would be a Buddhist or something of that kind since I am an Asian. So I briefly told him that I am a Christian and what it means.
- [Matthew 5.43-48 | Love your enemies](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-543-48-love-your-enemies/) - It is a well-known fact that Jesus’ teaching stresses the commandment to love. In Matthew 5:43-48, Jesus points out that the extent of its application must be universal and not limited to certain people. This is what He says. Matthew 5:43. "You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' 44 "But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, 45 "that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. 46 "For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? 47 "And if you greet your brethren only, what do you do more than others? Do not even the tax collectors do so? 48 "Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.
- [Matthew 6.1-8 | Do not do your righteousness before men](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-61-8-do-not-do-your-righteousness-before-men/) - We will study today the question of the practice of piety for the Christian and we will be looking at the beginning of chapter 6 of the gospel of Matthew. We will consider Matthew 6:1-8 and 16-18. We are going to leave out vv. 9-15, a section on what is called the Lord’s Prayer, which we will study on a separate occasion. So Matthew 6 begins like this.
- [Matthew 6.9a | Our Father](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-69a-our-father/) - Let me recite to you a passage that you probably all know by heart. This passage is found in Matthew 6:9-13 and it says this. "Matthew 6:9. In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name. 10 Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us this day our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. 13 And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."
- [Matthew 6.9b | Heaven](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-69b-heaven/) - We will continue today to study what is called the ‘Lord’s Prayer’, the Lord’s teaching concerning prayer. The Lord’s Prayer begins with these words: Our Father in heaven. The last time, we saw what it means that God is called our Father. We need now to turn to the second part of that phrase, in heaven. Our Father who is in heaven. What is heaven? Where is heaven? How are we to think about heaven? What is the meaning of heaven in the NT? These are important questions that any Christian should ask himself.
- [Matthew 6.9c | Hallowed by Thy name](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-69c-hallowed-by-thy-name/) - We will continue today our study of the Lord’s Prayer in Matthew 6:9. In the second part of Matthew 6:9, we read that the Lord Jesus asks us to pray to God this prayer, Hallowed be Thy Name.
- [Matthew 6.10 | Thy kingdom come](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-610-thy-kingdom-come/) - In chapter 6 of the gospel of Matthew, v. 10, we read these words. Matthew 6:10. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as in heaven. We will continue today our study of the Lord’s Prayer. And I would like to look at this verse, Matthew 6:10, in connection with the statement that Jesus makes immediately before He introduces the Lord’s Prayer. In Matthew 6:8, Jesus says this: Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him.
- [Matthew 6.11 | Give us our daily bread (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-611-give-us-our-daily-bread-2/) - In our previous lesson, you will remember that we were studying the words of our Lord Jesus in Matthew 6:11 where He said, Give us this day our daily bread. I pointed out to you that a better translation, according to most Bible scholars today, is to say, Give us this day our bread for the coming day.
- [Matthew 6.11 | Give us our daily bread (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-611-give-us-our-daily-bread-1/) - We will continue today our study of the Lord’s Prayer in the gospel of Matthew. And we will concentrate on v. 11 of Matthew 6. In Matthew 6:11, Jesus asks us to pray this prayer. This is what we read from the New King James Version. Mathew 6:11. Give us this day our daily bread.
- [Matthew 6.12 | Forgive us our debts](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-612-forgive-us-our-debts/) - In the Lord’s Prayer, in Matthew 6:12, the Lord Jesus asks us to pray to our Father in heaven in this way. "Matthew 6:12. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. Have you ever pondered about these words of our Lord Jesus? If you have, you probably scratched your head. It is indeed a puzzling phrase. What does this as mean? As we forgive our debtors". Is forgiveness conditional?
- [Matthew 6:13 | Lead us not into temptation](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-613-lead-us-not-into-temptation/) - We have been expounding on the Lord’s Prayer for some time now. And today, we will look at the last petition of the Lord’s Prayer. In Matthew 6:13, the Lord Jesus teaches us to pray to God in this way. Matthew 6:13. And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.
- [Matthew 6.22-23 | The lamp of the body is the eye](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-622-23-the-lamp-of-the-body-is-the-eye/) - We will study today the passage in Matthew 6:22-23. Here the Lord Jesus uses a metaphor to teach us something very important about spiritual perception. 'Matthew 6:22. The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light. 23 But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness!'
- [Matthew 7:1-5 | Do not judge lest you be judged](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-71-5-do-not-judge-lest-you-be-judged/) - Matthew 7 could be rightly called ‘The Christians’ relationships’ because it deals with various types of people with whom the Christian is related. It begins with his relationship to the brother. Today we will study the teaching of Jesus in Matthew 7:1-5. This is what we read.
- [Matthew 7.6 | Do not give what is holy to dogs](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-76-do-not-give-what-is-holy-to-dogs/) - At the beginning of Matthew 7, the Lord Jesus said that we are not to judge others. The Christian should never adopt a judgmental attitude. On the other hand, this doesn’t mean that we should be without discernment. We are not allowed to condemn people but we should be able to assess what kind of people they are. And in Matthew 7:6, Jesus asks us to beware of people who are like dogs and pigs.
- [Matthew 7.7-11 | Ask and it shall be given to you](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-77-11-ask-and-it-shall-be-given-to-you/) - We saw in our previous lessons that the Lord Jesus teaches us not to judge and not to give holy things to dogs. In those verses, He warns us against judgementalism and against being undiscriminating. Now He makes this wonderful promise in Matthew 7:7-11. This is what Jesus says.
- [Matthew 7.12 | Do also to them](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-712-do-also-to-them/) - One of the most well-known statements that the Lord Jesus ever said is found in Matthew 7:12. It is often called the ‘golden rule’ of life. Here is what Jesus teaches. Matthew 7:12. Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the law and the prophets.
- [Matthew 7.13-14 | Enter by the narrow gate](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-713-14-enter-by-the-narrow-gate/) - We will continue today our study of the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus’ teaching is now drawing to a close. He concludes His message with a surprising toughness, giving several warnings and exhortations. This is what we read in Matthew 7:13-14.
- [Matthew 7:15-20 | Beware of false prophets](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-715-20-beware-of-false-prophets/) - The problem of false prophets has always been part of the history of the Christian church. These false prophets have caused much damage to the church and their destructive influence continues to be a challenge today. In Matthew 7:15-20, the Lord Jesus is telling His people to beware of false prophets.
- [Matthew 7.21-23 | I never knew you](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-721-23-i-never-knew-you/) - The words of the Lord Jesus are not always comfortable. They are always true, but not always comfortable. At the end of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus says that not everybody who claims to be a Christian will enter the kingdom of heaven. Let us read Matthew 7:21-23
- [Matthew 7.24-27 | Build your house upon the rock](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-724-27-build-your-house-upon-the-rock/) - In our previous lesson, we studied Matthew 7:21-23 where Jesus warns us about the danger of confessing Him as Lord only with our lips. A confession that is merely verbal is inadequate. Jesus expects that we submit to Him as Lord. He wants us to give Him the loyalty and the obedience that His lordship requires. ‘Don’t expect to enter into the kingdom of heaven just because you say that I am your Lord. You have to do the will of my Father.’ The contrast in Matthew 7:21-23 is between saying and doing.
- [Matthew 8:5-13 | I have not found such faith in Israel](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-85-13-i-have-not-found-such-faith-in-israel/) - The Lord Jesus can receive any man who truly trusts Him, no matter how far away the man may be or how many barriers may seem to stand in the way. When a centurion approached Him and asked for help, Jesus received him and commended him for his great faith. This passage in Matthew 8:5-13 is very important for our understanding of faith as well as for our understanding of the person of Christ. We will come to see in this lesson that these two, faith and the Lord Jesus, are one. They cannot be separated. This is what we read in Matthew 8:5-13.
- [Matthew 8.19-22 | The Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-819-22-the-son-of-man-has-nowhere-to-lay-his-head/) - It is not easy being a disciple of Christ because association with God’s kingdom means sharing in Jesus’ suffering and rejection. Anyone who wants to follow Jesus has to understand that discipleship requires total commitment. In Matthew 8:19-22, Jesus’ teaching is about the demands of committed discipleship.
- [Matthew 10.5-15 | Find out who is worthy](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-105-15-find-out-who-is-worthy/) - The Lord Jesus had a threefold ministry that should serve as the primary guide for believers: He preached, He taught, and He healed. This is well described in Matthew 9:35 where we read that Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. He proclaimed the glorious message of salvation to man. He taught the details of this message to all those who would receive it. And He healed the sick, i.e., He met the physical, mental and emotional needs of those who hurt and suffered.
- [Matthew 10:24-33 | Fear not](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1024-33-fear-not/) - There is an expression that is reiterated over and over again in the Bible, both in the OT and in the NT. It is the expression ‘Fear not,’ or ‘Do not be afraid.’ In the gospels, ‘Fear not’ appears mostly in Matthew and in Luke. It is used by Jesus 3x in Matthew and 5x in Luke. In the gospel of Matthew, they all appear in the same passage. Let’s read this passage, Matthew 10:24-33.
- [Matthew 10.34-36 | I came to bring a sword](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1034-36-i-came-to-bring-a-sword/) - The Lord Jesus has said many times that much persecution is to be encountered by those who choose to follow Him. This is how He describes the object of His mission on earth.
- [Matthew 11.1-11 | Greater than John the Baptist](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-111-11-greater-than-john-the-baptist/) - In today’s lesson, we are going to look at John the Baptist. John is a very important prophet and there are many things we can learn from his ministry and his character. Let us read Matthew 11:1-11.
- [Matthew 10.38-39 | He who does not take his cross](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1038-39-he-who-does-not-take-his-cross/) - For Christians, the cross is the instrument of Christ’s atoning death. It is only through the cross of Christ and through the blood of His cross that we have our salvation. Jesus’ death on the cross was for all people. However, not everyone is saved. How does His saving work become effective in our lives? A quick answer would be to say that it becomes effective by faith. In this lesson, we will see how this faith is expressed.
- [Matthew 11.11 | The least in the kingdom is greater than John](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1111-the-least-in-the-kingdom-is-greater-than-john/) - The Lord Jesus had a very high view of John the Baptist. He is ‘more than just a prophet,’ Jesus said in Matthew 11:9. He was more than just a prophet because he was prophesied. He is someone that the word of God had predicted. Jesus also said that when we compare John to the people of the OT, we do not find anyone greater than him. Then in Matthew 11:11, Jesus makes another comparison concerning John. He compares the people in the kingdom of God to John the Baptist. And his statement is very surprising. Let’s read this verse.
- [Matthew 11:12 | The kingdom of God has been forcefully coming](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1112-the-kingdom-of-god-has-been-forcefully-coming/) - When John the Baptist began to proclaim the kingdom of heaven, a new situation happened which is described in terms of ‘violence’ in Matthew 11:12. Let’s read that intriguing verse. I will use the New King James translation. Matthew 11:12. And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force.
- [Matthew 11:13-24 | To what shall I compare this generation](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1113-24-to-what-shall-i-compare-this-generation/) - Unresponsiveness to the voice of God is the characteristic of this generation. This indifference will lead the majority to their downfall. That is the declaration of Jesus in Matthew 11:13-24. Let’s read this passage.
- [Matthew 11.25-30 | I will give you rest](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1125-30-i-will-give-you-rest/) - I would like to invite you to turn with me to the gospel of Matthew, chapter 11, v. 28. Matthew 11:28. Here, Jesus says this. Matthew 11:28. Come to Me, all you who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
- [Matthew 11:30-12:5 | My yoke is easy](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1130-125-my-yoke-is-easy/) - Let’s open our Bible and look at the passage found in Matthew 11:25-30. This is what we read. Matthew 11:25. At that time Jesus answered and said, "I thank You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and prudent and have revealed them to babes. 26 "Even so, Father, for so it seemed good in Your sight. 27 "All things have been delivered to Me by My Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father. Nor does anyone know the Father except the Son, and the one to whom the Son wills to reveal Him. 28 "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 "Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 "For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."
- [Matthew 12:1-8 | The Son of Man is Lord](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-121-8-the-son-of-man-is-lord/) - Today, I would like us to fix our eyes on the glory of the Lord Jesus. We want to fix our eyes on Him and pray that God will help us to see some measure of that glory. We want to learn to enter into a deep fellowship with the Lord Jesus so that we can see more of that divine glory.
- [Matthew 12.22-29 | The kingdom of God has come upon you](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1222-29-the-kingdom-of-god-has-come-upon-you/) - The opposition to Jesus reached its height in Matthew 12:14 when the religious leaders decided to kill Him. So they began to look for any opportunity to accuse Him. In Matthew 12:22-29, Jesus is accused of collusion with the devil. Let’s read this passage.
- [Matthew 12.30a | He who is not with Me is against Me](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-12-30a-he-who-is-not-with-me-is-against-me/) - When it comes to deciding about Christ, there is no place for ambivalence. Jesus’ expectation is very clear: He demands complete allegiance from His followers. This is how it is worded in Matthew 12:30.
- [Matthew 12:30b | He who does not gather with Me scatters](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1230b-he-who-does-not-gather-with-me-scatters/) - In spiritual warfare, neutrality is impossible. Jesus says in Matthew 12:30, He who is not with Me is against Me; and he who does not gather with Me scatters. We studied this verse in our last lesson and we mentioned that the action of gathering is closely related to the building up of God’s temple that Paul talks about in 1Corinthians 3. Today, we will continue to expound Matthew 12:30b from Paul’s teaching. Here is what Paul says in 1Corinthians 3:9-17.
- [Matthew 12:31-32 | Blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/blasphemy-against-the-spirit-will-not-be-forgiven/) - One of the glories of the Christian faith is the emphasis that the Bible puts on the wideness of God’s forgiveness. It is open for every man to receive. But the mercy of God has a limit. There is a kind of sin that cannot be forgiven. It is called by Jesus, ‘The blasphemy against the Holy Spirit.’ For this, there is no forgiveness. Let’s read the Lord’s teaching on this subject.
- [Matthew 12:38-42 | No sign shall be given but the sign of Jonah](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1238-42-no-sign-shall-be-given-but-the-sign-of-jonah/) - The Pharisees showed their hypocrisy when they asked Jesus for a sign proving that He was the Messiah. They were obviously not seeking to know Jesus. They had already seen so many proofs that He was the Messiah. Another miraculous work will not change their minds because they had decided already not to believe Him. Jesus, knowing their hearts, refused to give them a sign. The only sign they would have would be the sign of the prophet Jonah. In this lesson, we will explore the meaning of the sign of Jonah. Let’s read this passage. Matthew 12:38-42.
- [Matthew 12.43-45 | The last state of that man is worse](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1243-45-the-last-state-of-that-man-is-worse/) - In spiritual warfare, there is no room for neutrality. The Lord Jesus makes it plain in Matthew 12:30 where He says, He who is not with Me is against Me. This point is illustrated in a passage that is often called, ‘The return of the evil spirit.’ Let’s read this passage.
- [Luke 8.4 | The parable of the sower (3)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-84-8-the-parable-of-the-sower-3/) - We will return today to the parable of the sower in Luke 8. This time, we will approach it from a different angle. The parable of the sower, as you know, is a foundation parable. It sums up most effectively the Lord’s whole teaching on salvation. This lesson will be divided into two parts. In the first section, we will insist on the fact that salvation is God’s gift. In the second part, we will see how this gift becomes available to us through faith. In this respect, we will examine what faith means. We will define faith in terms of commitment and explain how commitment is related to faith.
- [Luke 8.4-8 | The parable of the sower (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-84-8-the-parable-of-the-sower-1/) - The parables are central in Jesus’ teaching. Depending on what we count as a parable, there are approximately fifty that appear in the synoptic gospels. We will study the major parables of Jesus, starting today with the parable of the sower.
- [Luke 8.4-8 | The parable of the sower (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-84-8-the-parable-of-the-sower-2/) - We will continue today our study of the parable of the sower. We mentioned in our previous lesson that the first soil represents people whose hearts are not open to the word of God. They are unbelievers who pay no attention to the message of the gospel. We come now to the second type of soil.
- [Matthew 13.10-17 | The purpose of parables](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1310-17-the-purpose-of-parables/) - Placed between the parable of the sower and its explanation, there is a section of great importance in which we see the disciples asking Jesus why He taught in parables. This is an excellent question indeed. Why did the Lord Jesus teach in parables rather than using plain statements? We will explore Jesus’ answer to that question in this lesson. First, let’s take a look at this passage. Matthew 13:10-17.
- [Luke 8.16-18 | The parable of the lamp and the measure](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/the-parable-of-the-lamp-and-the-measure/) - The parable of the sower is immediately followed both in Mark and Luke by another parable, a parable concerning a lamp and a measure. It is found in Luke 8:16-18, and also in Mark 4:21-25 with a slightly different wording. Let’s read the passage in Luke.
- [Mark 4.26-29 | The parable of the growing seed](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/the-parable-of-the-growing-seed/) - Spiritual growth cannot be measured by a stopwatch. The kingdom of God may begin in a person’s life in an instant, but its growth becomes visible only with the passing of time and the practice of faithfulness. This is one aspect of the kingdom of God that Jesus describes in the parable of the growing seed, a story that is recorded only by Mark. Let’s read this passage. Mark 4:26-29.
- [Matthew 13.24-30 | The parable of the tares](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1324-30-the-parable-of-the-tares/) - The parable of the tares is peculiar to the gospel of Matthew, just like the parable of the growing seed (which we studied in our previous lesson) is only found in Mark. Let’s read this story about the sowing of wheat and weeds.
- [Matthew 13.31-32 | The parable of the mustard seed](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1331-32-the-parable-of-the-mustard-seed/) - In our previous lesson, we were studying the parable of the tares, a parable describing the kingdom of heaven. We saw that the kingdom’s present state here on earth is imperfect. It is a kingdom in which wheat and tares are mixed. The good is mixed with the bad. Such description of the kingdom makes us wonder about its future. We might become somewhat discouraged. What future does the kingdom of God have if it is a mixture of good and evil? Here is Jesus’ answer to this concern. Right after the parable of the tares, He tells us the parable of the mustard seed. Let’s read this parable in Matthew 13:31-32.
- [Matthew 13.33 | The parable of the leaven](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1333-the-parable-of-the-leaven/) - Whenever Jesus taught people about the kingdom of God, He often used examples taken directly from everyday life. The parable of the leaven is one good example. Let’s read this short parable.
- [Matthew 13:44 | The parable of the hidden treasure (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1344-the-parable-of-the-hidden-treasure-1/) - Matthew’s chapter of parables (Matthew 13) contains two parables that form a pair. We can say that they are twin parables because they are almost identical. We are talking of course about the parables of the hidden treasure and of the pearl. Even though they are very closely related, we will study them separately. Let’s begin with the parable of the hidden treasure.
- [Matthew 13.44 | The parable of the hidden treasure (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1344-the-parable-of-the-hidden-treasure-2/) - We mentioned in our last lesson that the parable of the lost treasure can be interpreted in two different ways. The first interpretation understands the treasure to represent Jesus and the believer as the man who sold everything to get it. This is the view we explained the last time.
- [Matthew 13.45-46 | The parable of the pearl](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1345-46-the-parable-of-the-pearl/) - The kingdom of God as proclaimed by the Lord Jesus is described as something exciting and extremely valuable in the parable of the pearl. Let’s read that story.
- [Matthew 13.47-50 | The parable of the dragnet](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1347-50-the-parable-of-the-dragnet/) - The last parable in Matthew 13 is called the parable of the dragnet. It closes a series of seven parables with a comparison of the kingdom of God to a fishing scene. Let us read this passage.
- [Matthew 13.51-52 | Scribes trained for the kingdom of heaven](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1351-52-scribes-trained-for-the-kingdom-of-heaven/) - In Matthew 13.51-52, we find these sentences. These are the words of our Lord Jesus addressed to His disciples.Matthew 13.51. "Have you understood all this?" They said to him, "Yes."52 And he said to them, "Therefore every scribe who has been trained for the kingdom of heaven is like a householder who brings out of his treasure what is new and what is old."What can we learn from a passage like this? These two verses are connected by the word ‘therefore’. What is the link between v. 51 and v. 52? This passage is sometimes called the Parable of the Householder.
- [Matthew 14.13-21 | You give them something to eat](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1413-21-you-give-them-something-to-eat/) - In the NT, there is only one miracle of Jesus that is recorded in all the gospels. It is a passage known as ‘the feeding of the five thousand.’ We can read this extraordinary story in Matthew 14:13-21, Mark 6:33-44, Luke 9:11-17, and John 6:2-14. The fact that all four evangelists recorded it shows that its meaning is of great importance in our understanding of Jesus. Let’s look at this incident in Matthew 14:13-21.
- [Matthew 14.22-33 | Come to me on the water](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1422-33-come-to-me-on-the-water/) - The story about Jesus and Peter walking on the water is a vivid lesson about the role of faith in being a disciple of Christ. This very unusual incident is spoken of in three gospels. We read about it in Matthew, in Mark, and also in John. Each evangelist tells the story from his own perspective. When we put them all together, we have a fairly good idea of what the apostles experienced on the lake of Galilee that day. Let’s read from Matthew’s perspective in Matthew 14:22-33.
- [Matthew 15.21-28 | O woman, great is your faith](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1521-28-o-woman-great-is-your-faith/) - The Lord Jesus has many times rebuked the disciples for their ‘little faith’ (Matthew 8:26; 14:31; 16:8). By contrast, there is one person to whom Jesus said, Great is your faith. And this person turns out to be a Gentile. We are told specifically that she is a Canaanite, a term which has inevitable OT associations with the pagan inhabitants of Palestine. You remember that they were to be exterminated by the Israelites because of their moral corruption. And yet, despite her background, Jesus said to her, O woman, great is your faith! But what was great about her faith? What does ‘great faith’ mean? This will be the topic of our lesson.
- [Matthew 16.13-20 | You are Peter (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1613-20-you-are-peter-1/) - There is probably no passage in the teaching of Jesus that has called forth more discussion than Matthew 16:18. In Matthew 16:18, the Lord Jesus says this. And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. As you know, this has been the most important passage in the interpretation of claims to papacy and indeed in the question of whether there should be a pope at all. Protestants have reacted very strongly to the Catholic church’s understanding of this verse.
- [Matthew 16.13-20 | You are Peter (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1613-20-you-are-peter-2/) - This is the second part of a study on Jesus’ declaration concerning Peter in Matthew 16:18. The Lord said to him, You are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. This passage has given rise to many interpretations, the main point of discussion being the meaning of the word ‘rock’. What did Jesus mean by ‘on this rock’? What is the rock?
- [Matthew 16.21-23 | You are an offense to me](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1621-23-you-are-an-offense-to-me/) - It was clear to the apostles that Jesus was the Messiah. The notion that He was the suffering Messiah was much harder to digest. It required frequent repetition from Jesus to make real to their minds the thought that their Lord had to suffer and be killed. One of those instances is in Matthew 16. Let’s read this passage. Matthew 16:21-23.
- [Matthew 16.27-28 | Some standing here shall not taste death](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1627-28-some-standing-here-shall-not-taste-death/) - The hopes of the disciples about the Messianic reign were crushed when Jesus told them plainly that He was to die. They were not prepared for such a shocking revelation. As an encouragement, the Lord Jesus assured them that though His death was near, yet the time will come when His kingdom will be established with great power. Let’s read this passage, Matthew 16:27-28.
- [Matthew 17.14-21 | O faithless and perverse generation](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1714-21-o-faithless-and-perverse-generation/) - The Lord Jesus often had to bear with unbelief among His own disciples. The story of the healing of an epileptic boy is one example among many. Let’s read this passage. It contains a wonderful lesson on faith and power. Matthew 17:14-21.
- [Matthew 17.14-21 | You will say to this mountain](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1714-21-you-will-say-to-this-mountain/) - This lesson constitutes the second part of a study on Matthew 17:14-21, a passage describing Jesus healing a boy with an unclean spirit.
- [Matthew 18:1-4 | Unless you become like children](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-181-4-unless-you-become-like-children/) - The Lord Jesus, in His teaching, used the example of a child as a model of true discipleship. Most Christians know this passage in Matthew 18 where Jesus instructed His disciples to 'become like children.' Let's read it from v. 1 to v. 4.
- [Matthew 18.5-9 | That man through whom the stumbling block comes](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-185-9-that-man-through-whom-the-stumbling-block-comes/) - The followers of Christ have to face constant temptations. These temptations are referred to as 'stumbling blocks' in Matthew 18. They are a real danger and Jesus speaks very seriously about them. This is what He teaches in Matthew 18:5-9.
- [Matthew 18.10 | Their angels always behold the face of My Father](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1810-their-angels-always-behold-the-face-of-my-father/) - In our previous lesson, we were studying Matthew 18:5-9 where Jesus said to His disciples that they must take great care not to cause anyone who believes in Him to stumble. We saw that the stumbling is to be understood in the very serious sense of falling away from Christ.
- [Matthew 18:15-20 | If your brother sins](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1815-20-if-your-brother-sins/) - Sin in the Christian community is a matter of great concern for Jesus. It can be so damaging to the church that the Lord lays down very specific steps as to how the problem is to be handled. These steps are described in Matthew 18:15-20. This is what Jesus says.
- [Matthew 18.21-35 | The parable of the unforgiving servant](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1821-35-the-parable-of-the-unforgiving-servant/) - The Lord Jesus taught His followers not just to receive forgiveness but also to show such forgiveness. This point is at the heart of the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant. The story is recorded only in Matthew, Matthew 18:21-35. It goes like this.
- [Mark 9.49-50 | Everyone will be salted with fire](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/mark-949-50-everyone-will-be-salted-with-fire/) - In the Scriptures, a few verses have the reputation of being ‘one of the most difficult passages in the Bible.’ We are going to study one of those today. The passage that I have in mind is Mark 9:49. We will read v. 50 as well. Mark 9.49-50.
- [John 7.38 | Rivers of living water](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/john-738-rivers-of-living-water/) - The Feast of Tabernacles was probably the most popular feast among the Jews. Because of its popularity, it was simply called The Feast (1Kings 8.2). It was celebrated to remember how God protected Israel in its travel across the wilderness to the Promised Land, providing the nation with manna and even water. During that seven-day festival, a priest stood in front of the Temple with a pitcher of water and poured the water on the altar. This action commemorated the water that came out of a rock which gave the Israelites water to drink. On the 8th day, no water is being poured out. People simply prayed publicly for continued rain.
- [Matthew 19.1-9 | Let not man separate](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-191-9-let-not-man-separate/) - The Pharisees once asked the Lord Jesus this question: Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any cause at all (Matthew 19.3)? Divorce was an issue which divided the people in Jesus' days. There were two schools of thought. The school of Shammai (conservative) said that a man may not divorce his wife for just any reason, but only for the grave reason of some kind of sexual immorality. The school of Hillel (liberal) said that a man may divorce his wife for almost any reason, e.g., for burning his food.
- [Matthew 19.10-12 | Those to whom it has been given](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1910-12-those-to-whom-it-has-been-given/) - In OT times, the possibility of remaining single was not a recognized option. Marriage was instituted by God and therefore it was regarded in the Jewish society as a religious duty and part of the normal life. The propagation of the family was another major reason to get married. Thus marriage was almost universal, and celibacy was considered abnormal. In the NT, we find a somewhat different attitude toward the state of celibacy. Jesus' teaching on that subject is recorded in Matthew 19.10-12. Let's look at this passage. We will read from v. 9.
- [Mark 10:46-52 | Your faith has made you well](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/mark-1046-52-your-faith-has-made-you-well/) - In the previous lesson, we were studying the words of the Lord Jesus in Mark 10.32-45, a passage in which Jesus revealed to His disciples that He was about to be put to death. This was actually the third time He told them that He would suffer and die, and that He would be raised from the dead on the third day.But while He was speaking of His humiliation, the disciples were thinking of their personal glory, of their own exaltation. They wanted to be exalted to the right hand and the left hand of Christ.
- [Mark 10.32-45 | Whoever desires to become great](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/mark-1032-45-whoever-desires-to-become-great/) - In the last two lessons, we looked at the meaning of Jesus' teaching concerning the first-and-last principle. In Matthew 19.30 and 20.16, He said that the last shall be first and the first shall be last. Today we will continue to examine this principle and we will use the parallel passage in Mark. Mark 10.32-45.
- [Matthew 20:1-16 | The parable of the workers in the vineyard](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-201-16-the-parable-of-the-workers-in-the-vineyard/) - In our last lesson, we discussed the meaning of Jesus' words in Matthew 19.30: But many who are first will be last, and the last first. This statement is cited again a few verses later, in Matthew 20.16. Sandwiched between these two verses, we find a story called the Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard. I believe that the parable has been inserted there as an illustration of the 'first and last' saying. Let's look at this story.
- [Matthew 19.30 | Many who are first will be last](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1930-many-who-are-first-will-be-last/) - The OT prophets looked forward to the time when God would establish his kingship on the world. Their hope was a hope for a divine revolution. Jesus announced the coming of this great revolution when he told people in Mark 1.15 that The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel.
- [Matthew 19.22-24 | It is hard for a rich man](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1922-24-it-is-hard-for-a-rich-man/) - It does not take long before a Christian realizes that a large portion of the Bible has to do with money. There are more verses devoted to money than to faith and prayer combined. Jesus spoke more about money than both heaven and hell. In fact, fifteen percent of the recorded words of Jesus were spent just on this one subject.
- [Matthew 19.16-21 | If you want to enter life](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1916-21-if-you-want-to-enter-life/) - One day, a man ran up to Jesus and asked this question: 'What can I do to have eternal life?' That is a big question, a question which we all want to know the answer. 'What can I do to have eternal life?' Imagine, having eternal life! But I am afraid that you might not like the answer. As we will see, the answer Jesus gave sticks to our throat like a fish bone. This incident is recorded in three gospels: Matthew, Mark and Luke. We will read the account in the gospel of Matthew. Matthew 19.16-21.
- [Matthew 19:13-15 | To such belongs the kingdom of heaven](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-1913-15-to-such-belongs-the-kingdom-of-heaven/) - People often crowded around Jesus for a touch of His hand and His blessing. In Matthew 19.13-15, we see parents bringing their children to Him with the hope that He would lay His hands on them. Let's look at this passage.
- [Mark 11.12-21 | Let no one eat fruit from you](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/mark-1112-21-let-no-one-eat-fruit-from-you/) - We find in the NT a disturbing passage in which the Lord Jesus exercised His power in order to destroy. Divine power was used for destruction. It is disturbing because the use of power for a purely destructive purpose is quite out of keeping with the character and behavior of the Jesus we know of the gospels. We normally think of Him as someone whose power is deployed to heal and to save, not to destroy. But in this particular incident, Jesus killed a fig tree. Let's look at this story. Mark 11:12-21.
- [Mark 11.27-33 | Was it from heaven or from men](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/mark-1127-33-was-it-from-heaven-or-from-men/) - The religious leadership of Israel did not like Jesus. They often tried to trap Him with trick questions. In our text today, they asked for His credentials and demanded that He tell them what was the basis of His authority. Accosting Jesus before the people, they were hoping to shame Him publicly by casting doubt on His person. Let's read this passage. Mark 11:27-33.
- [Luke 10.38-42 | One thing is needful](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-1038-42-one-thing-is-needful/) - It is more important to hear and obey the words of Jesus than to be busy with other matters, even though they may be commendable of themselves. This is in essence what the Lord Jesus is saying in Luke 10:38-42. Let’s read this passage.
- [Luke 11.5-13 | The parable of the friend at midnight](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/the-parable-of-the-friend-at-midnight/) - The theme of seeking God in prayer appears in many places in Jesus’ teaching. We have for example the parable of the friend at midnight, which is a story that illustrates how a disciple should pray. Let’s read this passage.
- [Luke 12.13-21 | The parable of the rich fool](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/the-parable-of-the-rich-fool/) - Life does not consist of material possessions. The Lord Jesus points out very clearly this simple truth in the parable of the rich fool. Let’s read this passage. Luke 12:13-21.
- [Luke 12:49-50 | I came to send fire on the earth](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-12-49-50-i-came-to-send-fire-on-the-earth/) - In sending his Son on earth, God was to be glorified and sinners were to be saved. Jesus was fully aware that his mission will involve suffering, and ultimately death.
- [Luke 13:6-9 | The parable of the barren fig tree](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-136-9-the-parable-of-the-barren-fig-tree/) - The importance of bearing spiritual fruit is repeatedly emphasized in the Bible. Especially significant is the link between the failure to produce good fruit and divine judgment. Jesus makes this connection by telling the parable of the barren fig tree, a story describing a man seeking fruit. This is what we read in Luke 13:6-9.
- [Luke 14.7-11 | The parable of the guests](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-147-11-the-parable-of-the-guests/) - The Lord Jesus was not one to mince words. In the midst of the Pharisees who were trying to trap Him in any way, Jesus did not hesitate to admonish them for their arrogance. He gave them a lesson on humility in the parable of the guests. Let’s read that story. Luke 14:7-11.
- [Luke 14:12-24 | The parable of the great banquet](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-1412-24-the-parable-of-the-great-banquet/) - In the spiritual realm, certain things are turned up side down. We saw in our last lesson that the proud are humbled and the humble are exalted. This is mentioned in Luke 14:11 in the parable of the guests. Today we will study another parable, the parable of the great banquet, where we see a similar reversal. Many who attended the banquet were among those who were least expected to attend and those most expected to be there were among those who were excluded. This passage is found in Luke 14:16-24. We will read from v. 12.
- [Luke 14.25-33 | Count the cost](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-1425-33-count-the-cost/) - The Lord Jesus was not a salesman. He never tried to sell Christianity. He never asked people to follow Him by telling them only the benefits they would get. On the contrary, He often told them about the difficulties and the hardships they would experience as disciples, and He encouraged them to think carefully about the consequences of following Him.
- [Luke 16.1-13 | The parable of the shrewd steward](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-161-13-the-parable-of-the-shrewd-steward/) - Of all the parables of Jesus, the parable of the shrewd steward is probably the most difficult one to interpret. The story raises many puzzling questions. Particularly troubling is the commendation by the master of his manager who, in the text, is presented as a dishonest person. How can this unrighteous manager be held as an example for the Christians to follow? We will consider this question in a moment. First, let’s read the story.
- [Luke 14.26 | If anyone comes to Me and does not hate](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-1426-if-anyone-comes-to-me-and-does-not-hate/) - Discipleship is fundamentally a call to allegiance. Jesus is to have first place over everything and everyone. In the gospel of Luke, the Lord mentions father, mother, wife, children, brothers, sisters, and even one's own soul. Nothing else is to be first. Let's read this passage. Luke 14:26.
- [Luke 15:1-7 | The parable of the lost sheep](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-151-7-the-parable-of-the-lost-sheep/) - God is not a God of the few, a God of the wise, or a God only of those who think they are spiritual. He is a God who will go to great lengths to search for the sinner – any sinner. That is what Jesus wanted to communicate in the parable of the lost sheep. Let’s read that story.
- [Luke 15.8-10 | The parable of the lost coin](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-158-10-the-parable-of-the-lost-coin/) - Today we are going to look at this beautiful parable of the Lord's teaching in Luke 15:8-10, what is usually called the Parable of the Lost Coin. I have no hesitation to say that it is a very beautiful parable and yet, it is stated so briefly in these three verses. This is what we read. Luke 15:8-10.
- [Luke 15.11-32 | The parable of the lost son](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-1511-32-the-parable-of-the-lost-son/) - The parable of the lost son is probably one of the most powerful pictures of the forgiving love of God. Through that story, Jesus presents a vivid illustration of God and His mercy for repentant sinners. The passage goes from Luke 15:11 to v. 32. Since it is rather long to read, I will just describe it.
- [Luke 16:19-31 | The parable of the rich fool and Lazarus (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/the-parable-of-the-rich-fool-and-lazarus-part-1/) - Among all the parables that Jesus had taught, there is only one which does not limit its action to events in this world but carries over into the next. It is the parable of the rich fool and Lazarus. Let’s read this interesting story.
- [Luke 16.19-31 | The parable of the rich fool and Lazarus (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-1619-31-the-parable-of-the-rich-fool-and-lazarus-part-2/) - This lesson forms the second part of a study on the parable of the rich fool and Lazarus. We mentioned in the first part that the kingdom of God is the central theme of Jesus’ parables. This kingdom refers to God’s rule or reign. We used the word ‘kingship’, the kingship of God, and we explained why it is important to understand it well. Without the kingship of God in a person’s life, salvation is unavailable.
- [Luke 17.5-10 | The parable of the unprofitable servant](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-175-10-the-parable-of-the-unprofitable-servant/) - In order to give His disciples a perspective on the meaning of servanthood, the Lord Jesus told the parable of the unprofitable servant. This story is found in Luke 17:7-10. We will read from v. 5.
- [Luke 18.1-8 | The parable of the unjust judge](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-181-8-the-parable-of-the-unjust-judge/) - Christian believers must be patient in prayer until the Lord’s return. That is the teaching of Jesus in the parable of the unjust judge. Let’s read this story. Luke 18:1-8
- [Luke 18.9-14 | The parable of the Pharisee and tax-collector](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-189-14-the-parable-of-the-pharisee-and-tax-collector/) - We know from personal experience that things are not always what they appear to be. People are not necessarily what they might seem to be on the surface. The parable of the Pharisee and tax-collector causes us to be reminded of this fact of life. It is a story in which we find a reversal of the normal human perception of spirituality. Let’s read it in Luke 18:9-14.
- [Luke 19.11-27 | The parable of the pounds](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-1911-27-the-parable-of-the-pounds/) - The kingdom of God exists in the present, but is also in a state of expectant fulfillment. It is therefore ‘now’, but at the same time ‘not yet’. Because the Jews struggled to understand this two-stage view of the kingdom, Jesus told the parable of the pounds. He did this by indirectly referring to events that had taken place more than thirty years ago and which were still in the memory of His listeners. This passage is found in Luke 19:11-27.
- [Matthew 21.28-32 | The parable of the two sons](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-2128-32-the-parable-of-the-two-sons/) - Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Many Christians are familiar with this verse in James 1.22. 'Don't just listen. Do it.' It summarizes well the parable that we are going to study today. In the Parable of the Two Sons, the Lord Jesus teaches that the person who refuses to do what is asked of him but who subsequently changes his mind and does the task is better than the one who promises to take care of his obligations but then fails to keep his word. Let's read this parable. Matthew 21.28-32.
- [Matthew 21.33-46 | The parable of the wicked tenants](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-2133-46-the-parable-of-the-wicked-tenants/) - The Parable of the Wicked Tenants has the characteristic of being both historical and predictive. It is historical because Jesus told the history of Israel as God sees it. It is predictive because the Lord revealed precisely what was going to happen to Israel: the nation was going to reject the Son of God. And because of their rejection, God will transfer the responsibility of the kingdom to other people. The parable is found in three gospels: Matthew 21.33-46, Mark 12.1-12 and Luke 20.9-19. Instead of reading the biblical text, I will tell the story in my own words. It goes like this.
- [Matthew 22:1-14 | The parable of the wedding feast (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-221-14-the-parable-of-the-wedding-feast-1/) - The Parable of the Wedding Feast is the third in a series of three and forms the climax to the Parable of the Two Sons (Matthew 21.28-32) and of the Wicked Tenants (Matthew 21.33-46). It contains the good news of an open invitation to salvation. But as we will see, it also contains the sobering reminder of the seriousness of discipleship for those who respond to the invitation. Let's read the story. Matthew 22.1-14, the Parable of the Wedding Feast.
- [Matthew 22.1-14 | The parable of the wedding feast (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-221-14-the-parable-of-the-wedding-feast-2/) - We will continue today our study of the Parable of the Wedding Feast. We concluded the lesson the last time by saying that the believer must wear the appropriate clothes at the wedding feast. He must wear a wedding garment. Without that garment, there can be no guarantee of salvation. The parable mentions a man who was without such a garment. He was later thrown into the outer darkness where there is weeping and gnashing of teeth (Matthew 22:13), a common biblical description of hell.
- [Matthew 22.23-32 | He is not the God of the dead](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-2223-32-he-is-not-the-god-of-the-dead/) - The Sadducees were a political party of priestly and aristocratic tendency which became relatively influential in Israel at the time of Jesus. They had one particularity: they denied the idea of a life after death. The Sadducees accepted only the first five books of the OT as authoritative. For them, the Pentateuch was the supreme authority in matters of faith. And they maintained that since they could not find any explicit teaching on the resurrection in the Pentateuch, they did not believe in it.
- [Matthew 23.1-12 | Do not do according to their deeds](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-231-12-do-not-do-according-to-their-deeds/) - In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus taught how to live. The counterpart of the Sermon on the Mount is, in my opinion, Matthew 23 where Jesus taught how not to live. In this chapter, Matthew 23, Jesus criticized false religion, especially false religious leadership. The tone of His message is extremely harsh. It has a lengthy introduction (vv. 1-12), then a very long body composed of seven woes (vv. 13-36), and ends with a short conclusion (vv. 37-39). In this lesson, we will focus on the introduction. Let's read verse 1 to 12.
- [Romans 6.3 | Baptism (3): dying to sin](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/romans-63-baptism-3-dying-to-sin/) - In our last lesson, we saw that baptism is a pledge, a pledge to God by which you make Him King of your life. You are saying to God, that by His grace, you are going to remain faithful to Him, faithful unto death. This is the exhortation that we find in Revelation 2.10 where Jesus says, …be faithful unto death and I will give you the crown of life.
- [Luke 22.31-34 | Satan demanded to have you (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-2231-34-satan-demanded-to-have-you-1/) - When a person makes the decision to follow Jesus in baptism, something totally new happens at the spiritual level. He becomes united with Christ. This spiritual and somewhat mystical union brings that person into the realities of the spiritual world. And part of the spiritual realities that a disciple will have to face is the destructive power of Satan, the devil’s desire to destroy whoever he can get. The apostle Peter gives us this warning in 1Peter 5.8: Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Any believer can be the object of Satan’s attacks. We will turn our attention today to a passage that speaks about this very thing. Luke 22.31-34. This is what Jesus says to Peter. Luke 22.31. "Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that he might sift you like wheat, 32 but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail; and when you have turned again, strengthen your brethren." 33 And he said to him, "Lord, I am ready to go with you to prison and to death." 34 He said, "I tell you, Peter, the cock will not crow this day, until you three times deny that you know me."
- [Luke 22.31-34 | Satan demanded to have you (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-2231-34-satan-demanded-to-have-you-2/) - This is the second lesson on Luke 22.31-34 where Jesus reveals that Peter is the object of satanic attack and He has been praying for him. Let’s read the story. Luke 22.31. “Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that he might sift you like wheat, 32 but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail; and when you have turned again, strengthen your brethren.” 33 And he said to him, “Lord, I am ready to go with you to prison and to death.” 34 He said, “I tell you, Peter, the cock will not crow this day, until you three times deny that you know me.”
- [Matthew 26.41 | The flesh is weak](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-2641-the-flesh-is-weak/) - We are approaching the end of our study on the words of Christ and I realize that we never really talked about the biblical concept of the flesh. The Bible teaches that within the immaterial part of man, we find the soul, the spirit, the heart, the conscience, the mind, the will, and … the flesh. The flesh, sarx in Greek, is a complex word, with multiple facets. In this lesson, we will study it from the ethical point of view. We will use Matthew 26.41 as the basis for our study. Matthew 26.41 reads like this. Matthew 26.41. Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.
- [Matthew 28.18-20 | Make disciples](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-2818-20-make-disciples/) - When someone important to us departs, we pay special attention to the last things he or she said. These words become very precious because we know that we will not see that person anymore. Here are the last words of Jesus to his disciples in the gospel of Matthew. Matthew 28.18-20. Matthew 28.18. And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, to the close of the age.’
- [1Corinthians 6.17 | Baptism (1): a sacrament of union](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/1corinthians-617-baptism-1-a-sacrament-of-union/) - Today, I would like to begin a series of lessons on the meaning of baptism. I am often distressed to see that there are Christians who have been baptized without really knowing what it is that they were doing. And some of these people thought that this was some way of joining a club, a sort of ceremonial rite into a club.
- [1Peter 3.21 | Baptism (2): a pledge to God](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/1peter-321-baptism-2-a-pledge-to-god/) - We will continue today our study of the meaning of baptism. We saw the last time that baptism is a sacrament of union. Baptism is the symbol of the union that takes place between the believer and Christ. In our lesson today, I will show you another aspect of baptism. And it is that baptism is a pledge to God. It is a commitment to follow God.
- [Colossians 2:12-13 | Baptism (4): raised with Christ](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/colossians-212-13-baptism-4-raised-with-christ/) - Today, I would like us to look at another aspect of the meaning of baptism. We have seen in this series on baptism that baptism is a union, union with the Lord Jesus. In this union with Christ, we identify ourselves to Him in His death on the cross. But it doesn’t stop there. This union applies also to His resurrection. Colossians 2.12 says, and you were buried with Him in baptism, in which you were also raised with Him through faith in the working of God… In baptism, you were buried with Him. But you were also raised with Him into a new life.
- [Acts 2.38 | Baptism (5): Receiving the Holy Spirit](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/acts-238-baptism-5-receiving-the-holy-spirit/) - The topic of baptism is closely linked with the question of the Holy Spirit. Just a superficial reading of the NT gives us already the impression that there seems to be something between ‘baptism’ and the ‘Holy Spirit.’
- [Matthew 23.13-31 | Woe to you ... hypocrites (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-2313-31-woe-to-you-hypocrites-1/) - In our previous lesson, we began the study of Matthew 23, a well-known chapter where Jesus exposed ruthlessly the failings of the religious leaders. Seven times He used the solemn expression 'woe to you.' Six times He called them 'hypocrites.' Twice He spoke of them as 'blind guides,' twice as 'fools and blind,' and once as 'serpents and a brood of vipers.' This is probably the most stern and sustained denunciation of a group of people by Jesus.We also mentioned that in our interpretation of this chapter, we must be careful not to stereotype Pharisaism. If this text is to be of any benefit to us, we should approach it with the understanding that each of these expressions could well apply to us.In this lesson, we will study the seven woes and try to look at the principle involved in each of them.
- [Matthew 23:13-31 | Woe to you ... hypocrites (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-2313-31-woe-to-you-hypocrites-2/) - Matthew 23 contains seven denunciations against the Jewish leaders. 'Woe to you,' Jesus said to the scribes and Pharisees. We saw in our previous lesson that the expression 'woe to you' is an exceptional cry of grief as well as a threatening complaint. We have already discussed woe #1, #2, #3 and #4. In this lesson, we will look at woe #5, #6, and #7. Matthew 23 contains seven denunciations against the Jewish leaders. 'Woe to you,' Jesus said to the scribes and Pharisees. We saw in our previous lesson that the expression 'woe to you' is an exceptional cry of grief as well as a threatening complaint. We have already discussed woe #1, #2, #3 and #4. In this lesson, we will look at woe #5, #6, and #7. Woe #5 This is what Jesus says in woe #5. Matthew 23.25-26. Matthew 23.25. Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you cleanse the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of extortion and self-indulgence. 26 Blind Pharisee, first cleanse the inside of the cup and dish, that the outside of them may be clean also.
- [Matthew 23.13-31 | Woe to you ... hypocrites (3)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-2313-31-woe-to-you-hypocrites-3/) - The Lord Jesus denounced the Pharisees more than any other kind of people. We saw in the last two lessons that in Matthew 23, He called them 'hypocrites' six times (verses 13, 15, 23, 25, 27, 29) and explained various manifestations of that spiritual problem. We saw that it is something perilous, something that will result in spiritual death. Jesus said very plainly that the place of the hypocrites will be in hell. How shall you escape the sentence of hell, He said to the Pharisees (Matthew 23.33).
- [Matthew 23.13-31 | Woe to you ... hypocrites (4)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-2313-31-woe-to-you-hypocrites-4/) - In our last lesson, we were discussing the subject of hypocrisy in Matthew 23 and we saw that hypocrisy is a sin that has catastrophic consequences. When Jesus said, How will you (scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites) escape being condemned to hell (Matthew 23.33)? or He will cut him to pieces and assign him a place with the hypocrites, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth (Matthew 24.51), the message is clear. The fate of the hypocrites is to go to hell. Therefore the problem of hypocrisy has to do with the very matter of salvation. If we do not deal with it, there is no salvation to talk about. There is no hope for salvation. Knowing this, we want to do everything possible to stay away from hypocrisy. But we become more nervous when we know also, as we saw the last time, that hypocrisy is part of the human nature. No one is immune from it. So how do we deal with this problem?
- [Matthew 23.29-31 | You are the sons of those who murdered the prophets](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-2329-31-you-are-the-sons-of-those-who-murdered-the-prophets/) - In the past few lessons, we have been studying Matthew 23. We spent quite some time on the seven 'woes,' seven accusations against the scribes and the Pharisees for their failure to live up to their position as guardians and teachers of God's law. Today I would like to return to the last woe and explore the concept of sonship from a biblical perspective. What does the Bible teach about sonship? Let's read Matthew 23:29-31.Matthew 23:29. "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you build the tombs of the prophets and adorn the monuments of the righteous,30 saying, 'If we had lived in the days of our fathers, we would not have taken part with them in shedding the blood of the prophets.'31 Thus you witness against yourselves, that you are sons of those who murdered the prophets.
- [Matthew 23:32 | Fill up then the measure of your fathers](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-2332-fill-up-then-the-measure-of-your-fathers/) - We have studied many of Jesus' words and now we are approaching His teaching concerning the last days, the end time. In Matthew 24:3, the disciples asked Jesus, Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age? In theology, the subject of 'the end of the age' is called 'eschatology.' Eschatology is from the Greek word eschatos, which means 'last.' So eschatology is the teaching concerning the last things, the things which will come as this age draws to a close.
- [Matthew 23:33 | How shall you escape the sentence of hell (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/how-shall-you-escape-the-sentence-of-hell-part-2/) - This lesson is the second part of a teaching on hell. We concluded our last lesson by looking at three biblical expressions related to hell: (1) 'the weeping and gnashing of teeth,' (2) 'the fire of hell,' and (3) 'the outer darkness.' We mentioned that though the imagery is different, all these expressions involve the idea of death. The 'weeping and gnashing of teeth' is the reaction of a person before his execution. When you are in the fire of hell, you are consumed. You die. When you are cast out into the outer darkness, you are cut off from God's life. You die.
- [Matthew 23:37-39 | How often would I have gathered your children](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-2337-39-how-often-would-i-have-gathered-your-children/) - Jesus' great love for Israel is seen in a passage which is often known as 'Christ's lament over Jerusalem.' Let's read this passage. Matthew 23:37-39. Here Jesus sighed from the depth of His heart and wept.
- [Matthew 24:28 | There the vultures will gather](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/there-the-vultures-will-gather/) - While His first coming was quiet, humble and obscure, the Lord Jesus tells us that His second coming will be dramatic, cosmic, and very obvious. The first advent was in the little town of Bethlehem. The second advent will happen in all the skies. He says in Matthew 24:27, For just as the lightning comes from the east, and flashes even to the west, so shall the coming of the Son of Man be. And then, in the following verse, we find this mysterious phrase, a phrase that does not seem to fit Jesus' discourse about the end time.
- [Luke 21:25-27 | There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-2125-27-there-will-be-signs-in-the-sun-moon-and-stars/) - The most significant event yet to occur in human history is the return of Christ to earth. This will be preceded by signs 'in the sun and moon and stars,' signs that will happen in the heavenly places. Jesus taught these signs to enable His followers to be prepared and strengthened when they take place. This is what we read in Luke 21:25-27.
- [Luke 21:28 | Your redemption is drawing near (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-2128-your-redemption-is-drawing-near-1/) - In the last few lessons, we have been talking about the signs that will be seen at the Second Coming of Christ. These signs will cause terror in the world but will bring joy to those who are anticipating His return. And it is in that context that Jesus declared that the believers' redemption is about to take place. Let's read this passage. Luke 21:25-28.
- [Matthew 24:15 | When you see the abomination of desolation](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-2415-when-you-see-the-abomination-of-desolation/) - Matthew 24 contains a conversation between Jesus and His disciples about the future. Jesus said that one day, the temple will be destroyed. Startled, the disciples asked this question: Tell us, when will these things be (the destruction of the temple), and what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?" (v. 3 ).
- [Matthew 24:1-4 | What will be the sign of your coming](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-241-4-what-will-be-the-sign-of-your-coming/) - In the days of Jeremiah, the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem was God's punishment of the Hebrew nation for turning away from Him. In Matthew 24, Jesus declared that the temple will be destroyed again, for the same reason. This prompted the disciples to ask about the signs of His second coming. Let's read this passage. Matthew 24:1-4.
- [Matthew 24:29-31 | The sign of the Son of man will appear in the sky](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-2429-31-the-sign-of-the-son-of-man-will-appear-in-the-sky/) - In our previous lesson, we saw that Christ's return will trigger astronomical happenings worldwide and universally. We read in Luke 21:25-26 that there will be signs in sun and moon and stars… and that the powers of the heavens will be shaken. In the parallel passage, in Matthew 24, we are told that the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will fall from heaven.
- [Luke 21:28 | Your redemption is drawing near (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-2128-your-redemption-is-drawing-near-2/) - In our previous lesson, we studied Luke 21:28 and the meaning of redemption. Jesus said, But when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near. We saw that there is an aspect of redemption that is future. We have been redeemed, yes, but we have not been fully redeemed. That is why Jesus said that our redemption is drawing near.
- [Mark 13:33-37 | Take heed, watch](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/mark-1333-37-take-heed-watch/) - The Lord Jesus said that one day He will come back. And He also described how He will come back. It is going to be a sudden and unexpected return. Let's read His teaching in Mark 13:33-37
- [Matthew 24:34 | This generation will not pass away](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-2434-this-generation-will-not-pass-away/) - The Lord Jesus taught that His second coming will be sudden and unexpected. But although it will be sudden and unexpected, there will be signs pointing to His coming. All sorts of events will take place leading up to His coming. We saw what these events will be in previous lessons. Then Jesus goes on to say this puzzling sentence in Matthew 24:34. Matthew 24:34. Truly I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things take place. 'This generation will not pass away until all these things have happened.' This has been a very difficult verse for Christians to interpret. When you read commentaries, you see that the main difficulty lies in this word 'generation.' What does this 'generation' mean? This generation will not pass away until all these things take place. This will be the subject of our study.
- [Matthew 25:1-13 | The parable of the ten virgins](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-251-13-the-parable-of-the-ten-virgins/) - The theme of separating the good from the bad is a frequent theme of the parables. Remember the Parable of the Tares where there is mention of the ‘good’ wheat and the ‘bad’ tares. In the Parable of the Dragnet, Jesus spoke about sorting out the ‘good’ fish from the ‘bad’ fish. Today we are going to talk about ‘good girls’ and ‘bad girls,’ or more exactly about ‘wise virgins’ and ‘foolish virgins’ in the Parable of the Ten Virgins. Let us read Matthew 25.1-13. Matthew 25.1. Then the kingdom of heaven shall be likened to ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. 2 Now five of them were wise, and five were foolish. 3 Those who were foolish took their lamps and took no oil with them, 4 but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. 5 But while the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept. 6 And at midnight a cry was heard: 'Behold, the bridegroom is coming; go out to meet him!' 7 Then all those virgins arose and trimmed their lamps. 8 And the foolish said to the wise, 'Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.' 9 But the wise answered, saying, 'No, lest there should not be enough for us and you; but go rather to those who sell, and buy for yourselves.' 10 And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding; and the door was shut. 11 Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, 'Lord, Lord, open to us!' 12 But he answered and said, 'Assuredly, I say to you, I do not know you.' 13 Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming.
- [Matthew 25:14-30 | The parable of the talents](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-2514-30-the-parable-of-the-talents/) - The topics of judgment, reward and punishment are rather unpopular in Christian circles, and not often preached from the pulpit. But they are important in Jesus’ teaching. In the Parable of the Talents, Jesus taught that while He is away, the believer must do the work of the kingdom faithfully and diligently, knowing that at the return of his Lord, his work will be greatly rewarded or severely judged. Let us read this parable, the Parable of the Talents, in Matthew 25.14-30. Matthew 25.14. "For the kingdom of heaven is like a man traveling to a far country, who called his own servants and delivered his goods to them. 15 "And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his own ability; and immediately he went on a journey. 16 "Then he who had received the five talents went and traded with them, and made another five talents. 17 "And likewise he who had received two gained two more also. 18 "But he who had received one went and dug in the ground, and hid his lord's money. 19 "After a long time the lord of those servants came and settled accounts with them. 20 "So he who had received five talents came and brought five other talents, saying, 'Lord, you delivered to me five talents; look, I have gained five more talents besides them.' 21 "His lord said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.' 22 "He also who had received two talents came and said, 'Lord, you delivered to me two talents; look, I have gained two more talents besides them.' 23 "His lord said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.' 24 "Then he who had received the one talent came and said, 'Lord, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you have not sown, and gathering where you have not scattered seed. 25 'And I was afraid, and went and hid your talent in the ground. Look, there you have what is yours.' 26 "But his lord answered and said to him, 'You wicked and lazy servant, you knew that I reap where I have not sown, and gather where I have not scattered seed. 27 'So you ought to have deposited my money with the bankers, and at my coming I would have received back my own with interest. 28 'Therefore take the talent from him, and give it to him who has ten talents. 29 'For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away. 30 'And cast the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.'
- [Matthew 24-25 | The parables of the Second Coming](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/the-parables-of-the-second-coming/) - In the last two lessons, we studied the Parable of the Talents and the Parable of Ten Virgins. These two parables are found in Matthew 25, from v. 1 to v. 30, and they share the common theme of the Second Coming of Christ. At the end of Matthew 24, we find another parable which is also concerned with the Second Coming of Christ. It is the Parable of the Faithful and Unfaithful Servants in Matthew 24.45-51. So these three parables, the Parable of the Talents, the Parable of the Ten Virgins and the Parable of the Faithful and Unfaithful Servants, have one subject in common: the return of Christ. But they have more in common than that, and in this lesson, I would like to highlight seven points that these parables share together.
- [Matthew 25:31-46 | As a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/as-a-shepherd-separates-the-sheep-from-the-goats-part-1/) - In the NT, the theme of separation is often linked with the topic of judgment. In the language of the Bible, separation means judgment. Look at these examples. In Matthew 3.12, the wheat is separated from the chaff. John the Baptist says that the wheat is gathered into the barn while the chaff is burned up with unquenchable fire, a reference to the last judgment. Similarly, in Matthew 13.30, the tares are separated from the wheat. The tares are tied into bundles and burned; the wheat is gathered into the barn. In Matthew 13.49-50, Jesus says that at the end of the age, angels will separate the wicked from the just, and throw the wicked into the furnace of fire, another reference to the last judgment. We recently saw that the foolish virgins were separated from the wise ones when they found the door locked and heard the bridegroom say to them, ‘I do not know you’ (Matthew 25:12). In the following parable, the lazy servant who buried his one talent is separated from the other servants when he was thrown outside into the darkness, another reference to the last judgment (Matthew 25.30).
- [Matthew 25:31-46 | As a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/as-a-shepherd-separates-the-sheep-from-the-goats-part-2/) - This is the second lesson on the teaching of Jesus concerning the separation of the sheep and goats in Matthew 25.31-46. In the first lesson, we discussed mostly the meaning of the goats. What do the goats represent in Matthew 25? We saw that the goats, just like the sheep, represent Christians. Today we will concentrate on the topic of separation, which in biblical language means judgment. What did Jesus say about the judgment of mankind?
- [Matthew 23:33 | How shall you escape the sentence of hell (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/how-shall-you-escape-the-sentence-of-hell-part-1/) - One of the sternest words the Lord Jesus ever used to sinners is found in Matthew 23:33: You serpents, you brood of vipers, how shall you escape the sentence of hell? Jesus was speaking to the Pharisees, calling them serpents and the sons of vipers. 'You are the offspring of snakes that cannot escape the damnation of hell!' There is one topic here that we need to look at, and it concerns the Lord's teaching about hell. This is a heavy topic. Hell is a subject that we do not want to talk casually about.

## Episodes

- [Luke 9.23 | Let him take up his cross daily (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-9-23-let-him-take-up-his-cross-daily-2/) - Today we will look at the cross from another angle. We will look at it from the point of view of its glory. Not only there is power in the cross, but there is also a glorious aspect to the cross. We will see how this is expressed in the Bible. Text format available.Read and
- [Luke 9.23 | Let him take up his cross daily (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-9-23-let-him-take-up-his-cross-daily-1/) - I think it is fair to say that Christianity is a religion of power, a religion in which there is power. Christianity being a religion of power, we can also say that Christians I think it is fair to say that Christianity is a religion of power, a religion in which there is power. Christianity
- [Luke 9.62 | No man who looks back is fit for the kingdom](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-9-62-no-man-who-looks-back-is-fit-for-the-kingdom/) - This is what the Lord Jesus declares in Luke 9.62.Luke 9.62. But Jesus said to him, "No one, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God." Text format available.Read and download this episode in text format on our website at the following address: https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-962-no-man-who-looks-back-is-fit-for-the-kingdom
- [Luke 2.14 | Peace toward men of good will (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-2-14-peace-toward-men-of-good-will-1/) - The coming of the Messiah is a major theme of the OT. It is constantly repeated throughout the pages of the OT. In the NT, we are told that it is the angels who have the privilege to announce the imminent coming of Christ. We read in the gospel of Luke, in the nativity account,
- [Luke 2.14 | Peace toward men of good will (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-2-14-peace-toward-men-of-good-will-2/) - You will remember that in our last lesson, we were talking about the message of the angels found in Luke 2:14. The angels gave glory to God and they said in that verse, On earth peace among men with whom He is pleased. Peace toward men of good will. Text format available.Read and download this
- [Luke 2.49 | I must be about my Father's business](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-2-49-i-must-be-about-my-fathers-business/) - The first recorded words of our Lord Jesus are found in Luke 2.49. This is what we read.Luke 2.49. And He (Jesus)said to them (to his parents),"Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father's business?"We know the context of these words. This incident happened when Jesus was
- [Matthew 3.13-17 | The baptism of Jesus](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-3-13-17-the-baptism-of-jesus/) - We will study today a topic that is not necessarily too popular nowadays. And this topic is about submission. Today we want to insist on equality. Equality of rights. Equality between the genders. Equality between the different races. Equality between the social classes. And thank God that by this insistence on equality, we have dealt,
- [Luke 4.9-13 | The temptation of Christ (3)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-4-9-13-the-temptation-of-christ-3/) - Today we will continue and conclude our study of the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness. If you have heard the first two lessons of this series, I hope that you are beginning to see how Satan can be subtle.The devil usually comes behind your back and before you even know it, you have already
- [Luke 4.5-8 | The temptation of Christ (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-4-5-8-the-temptation-of-christ-2/) - We will continue today our study of the temptation of Christ, as we explore more deeply the meaning of the temptation. Text format available.Read and download this episode in text format on our website at the following address: https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/luke-45-8-the-temptation-of-christ-2
- [Luke 4.1-4 | The temptation of Christ (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-4-1-4-the-temptation-of-christ-1/) - I would like to invite you to open your Bible and read Luke 4.1-4. This is what we find.Luke 4.1. And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led about by the Spirit in the wilderness2 for forty days, being tempted by the devil. And He ate nothing during those
- [John 2.13-22 | In three days I will raise it up](https://meetingwithchrist.com/john-2-13-22-in-three-days-i-will-raise-it-up/) - The Jews considered the temple to be God’s house. But the arrival of Jesus altered this understanding of the temple. The glory of God will be found somewhere else. Jesus alluded to this change early in His ministry, in John 2.13-22. Let’s look at this incident.John 2.13. And the Passover of the Jews was at
- [John 3.14-15 | The bronze serpent](https://meetingwithchrist.com/john-3-14-15-the-bronze-serpent/) - If I were to ask you to quote John 3.16, I am pretty sure that most of you would be able to do it. For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life. But if I ask you, ‘What
- [Matthew 4.17 | Repent](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-4-17-repent/) - I would like to invite you to open your Bible and to turn with me to Matthew 4.17. And this is what we read.Matthew 4.17. From that time Jesus began to preach and say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Text format available.Read and download this episode in text format on our
- [Matthew 4.18-22 | I will make you fishers of men](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-4-18-22-i-will-make-you-fishers-of-men/) - Today I would like to talk to you about Jesus’ concept of discipleship, the Lord’s teaching concerning discipleship. And for this, we will look at the passage in Matthew 4.18-22. This is what we read.Matthew 4.18. And Jesus, walking by the Sea of Galilee, saw two brothers, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting
- [Matthew 4.18-22 | Called to be saints](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-4-18-22-called-to-be-saints/) - In our previous lesson, we were studying Matthew 4.18-22. And you will remember that we focused our attention on Jesus’ statement when He said, Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men. It was a lesson in which we stressed the notion of discipleship, discipleship from Jesus’ perspective. And I drew your attention
- [Matthew 5.3 | Blessed are the poor in spirit](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-5-3-blessed-are-the-poor-in-spirit/) - With this lesson, we will begin a series of studies on the Beatitudes. The Beatitudes, as you know, is the Lord's description of what a Christian should be in his character. If you want to know what are the spiritual qualities that God expects of a Christian, meditate on the Beatitudes. I am sure that
- [Matthew 5.4 | Blessed are those who mourn](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-5-4-blessed-are-those-who-mourn/) - We will continue today our exposition of the teaching of our Lord Jesus on the Beatitudes. And here is the second Beatitude that we find in the gospel of Matthew. Matthew 5.4 reads like this.Matthew 5.4. Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Text format available.Read and download this episode in text
- [Matthew 5.5 | Blessed are the meek (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-5-5-blessed-are-the-meek-1/) - We will continue today our exploration of the Beatitudes of our Lord Jesus. We come now to the third Beatitude found in the gospel of Matthew. This is what we read in Matthew 5.5.Matthew 5.5. Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.Happy is the man who is meek. Happy is he because
- [Matthew 5.5 | Blessed are the meek (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-5-5-blessed-are-the-meek-2/) - In our last lesson, we studied the third Beatitude of the Lord Jesus, Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. In that lesson, we focused our attention on the meaning of meekness. We tried to answer the question, ‘What did Jesus have in might when He speaks of the meek?’ We saw
- [Matthew 5.6 | Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-5-6-blessed-are-those-who-hunger-and-thirst-for-righteousness/) - The fourth Beatitude taught by our Lord Jesus in the gospel of Matthew reads like this.Matthew 5.6. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled. Text format available.Read and download this episode in text format on our website at the following address: https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-56-blessed-are-those-who-hunger-and-thirst-for-righteousness
- [Matthew 5.7 | Blessed are the merciful](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-5-7-blessed-are-the-merciful/) - We will continue today our study of the Beatitudes. In Matthew 5.7, we find the fifth Beatitude and we read this.Matthew 5.7. Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy. Text format available.Read and download this episode in text format on our website at the following address: https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-57-blessed-are-the-merciful
- [Matthew 5.8 | Blessed are the pure in heart](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-5-8-blessed-are-the-pure-in-heart/) - We will study today the sixth Beatitude of our Lord Jesus. This is what we read in Matthew 5.8.Matthew 5.8. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. Text format available.Read and download this episode in text format on our website at the following address: https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-58-blessed-are-the-pure-in-heart
- [Matthew 5.9 | Blessed are the peacemakers](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-5-9-blessed-are-the-peacemakers/) - The Bible is very much concerned about peace. The Lord Jesus makes mention of those who make peace in the Beatitudes. This is what He says in Matthew 5.9.Matthew 5.9. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. Text format available.Read and download this episode in text format on our website
- [Matthew 5.10-12 | Blessed are those who are persecuted](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-5-10-12-blessed-are-those-who-are-persecuted/) - The last Beatitude in the gospel of Matthew reads like this.Matthew 5.10. Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.11 Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake.12 Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for
- [Matthew 5.1-12 | The Beatitudes and the fruit of the Spirit (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-5-1-12-the-beatitudes-and-the-fruit-of-the-spirit-2/) - We saw in our previous lesson that there is an internal unity in the Beatitudes, and we described this unity in terms of the relationship between the Beatitudes and the fruit of the Spirit. We mentioned that the Beatitudes have to do with the qualities of the heart of the Christian whereas the fruit of
- [Matthew 5.1-12 | The Beatitudes and the fruit of the Spirit (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-5-1-12-the-beatitudes-and-the-fruit-of-the-spirit-1/) - We have now studied all the Beatitudes individually. Today, we want to consider them together and see whether there is an internal relationship between these Beatitudes. Is there some kind of order, some kind of unity, some kind of direction in these Beatitudes? Text format available.Read and download this episode in text format on our
- [Luke 10.25-37 | The parable of the good Samaritan](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-10-25-37-the-parable-of-the-good-samaritan/) - The parable of the good Samaritan is familiar to most people, even to non-Christians. In fact, the term ‘good Samaritan’ has become part of our culture and vocabulary. There is a law called ‘the Good Samaritan law.’ Some hospitals and institutions bear that name too. This lesson will focus more on the context of the
- [Luke 9.23 | Let him deny himself](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-9-23-let-him-deny-himself/) - To people who may be interested in following Jesus, the Lord has hard words to hear. ‘Make no mistake about it,’ He said, ‘The path of discipleship is hard, extremely hard.’ As dreadful as Jesus’ own destiny as Messiah has been, those who decide to follow him should expect nothing less. Christ’s road to Calvary
- [Mark 11.27-33 | Was it from heaven or from men](https://meetingwithchrist.com/mark-11-27-33-was-it-from-heaven-or-from-men/) - The religious leadership of Israel did not like Jesus. They often tried to trap Him with trick questions. In our text today, they asked for His credentials and demanded that He tell them what was the basis of His authority. Accosting Jesus before the people, they were hoping to shame Him publicly by casting doubt
- [Matthew 5.1-12 | The Beatitudes and the Lord's Prayer](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-5-1-12-the-beatitudes-and-the-lords-prayer/) - After studying the Beatitudes one by one, we looked at them together to see whether they form some kind of unified whole. This led us to see the connection between the Beatitudes and the fruit of the Spirit. Today, we will consider another kind of relationship, and it is the connection between the Beatitudes and
- [Matthew 5.13 | You are the salt of the earth (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-5-13-you-are-the-salt-of-the-earth-1/) - We have completed our study in the Beatitudes and we come now to Matthew 5.13, a passage that describes the Christians as being the salt of the earth. Let us read Matthew 5.13. Matthew 5.13. You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored?
- [Matthew 5.13 | You are the salt of the earth (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-5-13-you-are-the-salt-of-the-earth-2/) - In our previous lesson, we studied the words of our Lord Jesus in Matthew 5.13. This is what He said. Matthew 5.13. You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything, but is thrown out and trampled
- [Matthew 5.14-16 | You are the light of the world](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-5-14-16-you-are-the-light-of-the-world/) - Our Lord Jesus, in Matthew 5.14-16, uses a metaphor to teach us something very important. In this metaphor, He likens His disciples to light. This is what He says. Matthew 5.14. "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.15 "Nor do they light a lamp
- [Matthew 5.17-20 | I have come to fulfill the law](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-5-17-20-i-have-come-to-fulfill-the-law/) - Today I would like us to look at an important passage, important because this passage establishes the relationship between the OT and the NT. Let’s turn to Matthew 5.17-20. Here the Lord Jesus says this. Matthew 5.17. Do not think that I came to destroy the law or the prophets. I did not come to
- [Matthew 5.21-26 | Thou shall not kill](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-5-21-26-thou-shall-not-kill/) - In Matthew 5.21-26, we find these words that come from the mouth of our Lord Jesus. Matthew 5.21. You have heard that it was said to the men of old, ‘You shall not kill; and whoever kills shall be liable to judgment.'22 But I say to you that every one who is angry with his
- [Matthew 5.27-30 | Thou shall not commit adultery](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-5-27-30-thou-shall-not-commit-adultery/) - I would like to invite you to turn to the teaching of our Lord Jesus in Matthew 5.27-30. This is what Jesus says on the matter of adultery. Matthew 5.27. You have heard that it was said to those of old, 'You shall not commit adultery.'28 But I say to you that whoever looks at
- [Matthew 5.33-37 | Swear not at all](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-5-33-37-swear-not-at-all/) - We will examine today the words of our Lord Jesus in Matthew 5.33-37. This is a passage that deals with the matter of oath and swearing. Matthew 5.33-37 reads like this. Matthew 5.33. Again you have heard that it was said to those of old, 'You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform your oaths
- [Matthew 5.43-48 | Love your enemies](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-5-43-48-love-your-enemies/) - It is a well-known fact that Jesus’ teaching stresses the commandment to love. In Matthew 5.43-48, Jesus points out that the extent of its application must be universal and not limited to certain people. This is what He says. Matthew 5.43. "You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate
- [Matthew 5.38-42 | Turn to him the other cheek](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-5-38-42-turn-to-him-the-other-cheek/) - Some time ago, I was working with someone who asked me about my religion. The question came rather suddenly. We were having a superficial conversation when he asked me, ‘By the way, what’s your religion?’ He thought that I would be a Buddhist or something of that kind since I am an Asian. So I
- [Matthew 6.1-8 | Do not do your righteousness before men](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-6-1-8-do-not-do-your-righteousness-before-men/) - We will study today the question of the practice of piety for the Christian and we will be looking at the beginning of chapter 6 of the gospel of Matthew. We will consider Matthew 6.1-8 and 16-18. We are going to leave out vv. 9-15, a section on what is called the Lord’s Prayer, which
- [Matthew 6.9a | Our Father](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-6-9a-our-father/) - Let me recite to you a passage that you probably all know by heart. This passage is found in Matthew 6.9-13 and it says this.Matthew 6.9. In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name.10 Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.11 Give us
- [Matthew 6.9b | Heaven](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-6-9b-heaven/) - We will continue today to study what is called the ‘Lord’s Prayer’, the Lord’s teaching concerning prayer. The Lord’s Prayer begins with these words: Our Father in heaven. The last time, we saw what it means that God is called our Father. We need now to turn to the second part of that phrase, in
- [Matthew 6.9c | Hallowed by Thy name](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-6-9c-hallowed-by-thy-name/) - We will continue today our study of the Lord’s Prayer in Matthew 6.9. In the second part of Matthew 6.9, we read that the Lord Jesus asks us to pray to God this prayer, Hallowed be Thy Name Text format available.Read and download this episode in text format on our website at the following address:
- [Matthew 6.10 | Thy kingdom come](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-6-10-thy-kingdom-come/) - In chapter 6 of the gospel of Matthew, v. 10, we read these words.Matthew 6:10. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as in heaven.We will continue today our study of the Lord’s Prayer. And I would like to look at this verse, Matthew 6:10, in connection with the statement that Jesus makes
- [Matthew 6.11 | Give us our daily bread (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-6-11-give-us-our-daily-bread-1/) - We will continue today our study of the Lord’s Prayer in the gospel of Matthew. And we will concentrate on v. 11 of Matthew 6. In Matthew 6.11, Jesus asks us to pray this prayer. This is what we read from the New King James Version.Mathew 6.11. Give us this day our daily bread. Text
- [Matthew 6.11 | Give us our daily bread (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-6-11-give-us-our-daily-bread-2/) - In our previous lesson, you will remember that we were studying the words of our Lord Jesus in Matthew 6.11 where He said, Give us this day our daily bread. I pointed out to you that a better translation, according to most Bible scholars today, is to say, Give us this day our bread for
- [Matthew 6.12 | Forgive us our debts](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-6-12-forgive-us-our-debts/) - In the Lord’s Prayer, in Matthew 6.12, the Lord Jesus asks us to pray to our Father in heaven in this way.Matthew 6.12. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. Text format available.Read and download this episode in text format on our website at the following address: https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/matthew-612-forgive-us-our-debts
- [Matthew 6.13 | Lead us not into temptation](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-6-13-lead-us-not-into-temptation/) - We have been expounding on the Lord’s Prayer for some time now. And today, we will look at the last petition of the Lord’s Prayer. In Matthew 6.13, the Lord Jesus teaches us to pray to God in this way.Matthew 6.13. And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.
- [Matthew 6.22-23 | The lamp of the body is the eye](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-6-22-23-the-lamp-of-the-body-is-the-eye/) - We will study today the passage in Matthew 6.22-23. Here the Lord Jesus uses a metaphor to teach us something very important about spiritual perception.Matthew 6.22. The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light.23 But if your eye is bad, your
- [Matthew 7.1-5 | Do not judge lest you be judged](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-7-1-5-do-not-judge-lest-you-be-judged/) - Matthew 7 could be rightly called ‘The Christians’ relationships’ because it deals with various types of people with whom the Christian is related. It begins with his relationship to the brother. Today we will study the teaching of Jesus in Matthew 7.1-5. This is what we read.Matthew 7.1. "Do not judge lest you be judged.2
- [Matthew 7.6 | Do not give what is holy to dogs](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-7-6-do-not-give-what-is-holy-to-dogs/) - At the beginning of Matthew 7, the Lord Jesus said that we are not to judge others. The Christian should never adopt a judgmental attitude. On the other hand, this doesn’t mean that we should be without discernment. We are not allowed to condemn people but we should be able to assess what kind of
- [Matthew 7.7-11 | Ask and it shall be given to you](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-7-7-11-ask-and-it-shall-be-given-to-you/) - We saw in our previous lessons that the Lord Jesus teaches us not to judge and not to give holy things to dogs. In those verses, He warns us against judgementalism and against being undiscriminating. Now He makes this wonderful promise in Matthew 7.7-11. This is what Jesus says.Matthew 7.7. "Ask, and it will be
- [Matthew 7.12 | Do also to them](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-7-12-do-also-to-them/) - One of the most well-known statements that the Lord Jesus ever said is found in Matthew 7:12. It is often called the ‘golden rule’ of life. Here is what Jesus teaches.Matthew 7.12. Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the law and the prophets. Text format
- [Matthew 7.13-14 | Enter by the narrow gate](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-7-13-14-enter-by-the-narrow-gate/) - We will continue today our study of the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus’ teaching is now drawing to a close. He concludes His message with a surprising toughness, giving several warnings and exhortations. This is what we read in Matthew 7.13-14.Matthew 7.13. Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is
- [Matthew 7.15-20 | Beware of false prophets](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-7-15-20-beware-of-false-prophets/) - The problem of false prophets has always been part of the history of the Christian church. These false prophets have caused much damage to the church and their destructive influence continues to be a challenge today. In Matthew 7.15-20, the Lord Jesus is telling His people to beware of false prophets.Matthew 7.15. "Beware of false
- [Matthew 7.21-23 | I never knew you](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-7-21-23-i-never-knew-you/) - The words of the Lord Jesus are not always comfortable. They are always true, but not always comfortable. At the end of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus says that not everybody who claims to be a Christian will enter the kingdom of heaven. Let us read Matthew 7.21-23Matthew 7.21. Not everyone who says to
- [Matthew 7.24-27 | Build your house upon the rock](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-7-24-27-build-your-house-upon-the-rock/) - In our previous lesson, we studied Matthew 7.21-23 where Jesus warns us about the danger of confessing Him as Lord only with our lips. A confession that is merely verbal is inadequate. Jesus expects that we submit to Him as Lord. He wants us to give Him the loyalty and the obedience that His lordship
- [Matthew 8.5-13 | I have not found such faith in Israel](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-8-5-13-i-have-not-found-such-faith-in-israel/) - The Lord Jesus can receive any man who truly trusts Him, no matter how far away the man may be or how many barriers may seem to stand in the way. When a centurion approached Him and asked for help, Jesus received him and commended him for his great faith. This passage in Matthew 8.5-13
- [Matthew 8.19-22 | The Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-8-19-22-the-son-of-man-has-nowhere-to-lay-his-head/) - It is not easy being a disciple of Christ because association with God’s kingdom means sharing in Jesus’ suffering and rejection. Anyone who wants to follow Jesus has to understand that discipleship requires total commitment. In Matthew 8.19-22, Jesus’ teaching is about the demands of committed discipleship.Matthew 8.19. Then a certain scribe came and said
- [Matthew 10.5-15 | Find out who is worthy](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-10-5-15-find-out-who-is-worthy/) - The Lord Jesus had a threefold ministry that should serve as the primary guide for believers: He preached, He taught, and He healed. This is well described in Matthew 9.35 where we read that Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every
- [Matthew 10.24-33 | Fear not](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-10-24-33-fear-not/) - There is an expression that is reiterated over and over again in the Bible, both in the OT and in the NT. It is the expression ‘Fear not,’ or ‘Do not be afraid.’ In the gospels, ‘Fear not’ appears mostly in Matthew and in Luke. It is used by Jesus 3x in Matthew and 5x
- [Matthew 10.34-36 | I came to bring a sword](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-10-34-36-i-came-to-bring-a-sword/) - The Lord Jesus has said many times that much persecution is to be encountered by those who choose to follow Him. This is how He describes the object of His mission on earth.Matthew 10.34. "Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword.35
- [Matthew 10.38-39 | He who does not take his cross](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-10-38-39-he-who-does-not-take-his-cross/) - For Christians, the cross is the instrument of Christ’s atoning death. It is only through the cross of Christ and through the blood of His cross that we have our salvation. Jesus’ death on the cross was for all people. However, not everyone is saved. How does His saving work become effective in our lives?
- [Matthew 11.1-11 | Greater than John the Baptist](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-11-1-11-greater-than-john-the-baptist/) - In today’s lesson, we are going to look at John the Baptist. John is a very important prophet and there are many things we can learn from his ministry and his character. Let us read Matthew 11.1-11.Matthew 11.1. Now it came to pass, when Jesus finished commanding His twelve disciples, that He departed from there
- [Matthew 11.12 | The kingdom of God has been forcefully coming](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-11-12-the-kingdom-of-god-has-been-forcefully-coming/) - When John the Baptist began to proclaim the kingdom of heaven, a new situation happened which is described in terms of ‘violence’ in Matthew 11.12. Let’s read that intriguing verse. I will use the New King James translation.Matthew 11.12. And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence,
- [Matthew 11.11 | The least in the kingdom is greater than John](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-11-11-the-least-in-the-kingdom-is-greater-than-john/) - The Lord Jesus had a very high view of John the Baptist. He is ‘more than just a prophet,’ Jesus said in Matthew 11.9. He was more than just a prophet because he was prophesied. He is someone that the word of God had predicted. Jesus also said that when we compare John to the
- [Matthew 11.13-24 | To what shall I compare this generation](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-11-13-24-to-what-shall-i-compare-this-generation/) - Unresponsiveness to the voice of God is the characteristic of this generation. This indifference will lead the majority to their downfall. That is the declaration of Jesus in Matthew 11.13-24. Let’s read this passage.Matthew 11.13. "For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John.14 "And if you are willing to receive it, he is
- [Matthew 11.25-30 | I will give you rest](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-11-25-30-i-will-give-you-rest/) - I would like to invite you to turn with me to the gospel of Matthew, chapter 11, v. 28. Matthew 11:28. Here, Jesus says this.Matthew 11.28. Come to Me, all you who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Text format available.Read and download this episode in text format on our
- [Matthew 11.30-12.5 | My yoke is easy](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-11-30-12-5-my-yoke-is-easy/) - Let’s open our Bible and look at the passage found in Matthew 11.25-30. This is what we read.Matthew 11.25. At that time Jesus answered and said, "I thank You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and prudent and have revealed them to babes.26 "Even so, Father,
- [Matthew 12.1-8 | The Son of Man is Lord](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-12-1-8-the-son-of-man-is-lord/) - Today, I would like us to fix our eyes on the glory of the Lord Jesus. We want to fix our eyes on Him and pray that God will help us to see some measure of that glory. We want to learn to enter into a deep fellowship with the Lord Jesus so that we
- [Matthew 12.22-29 | The kingdom of God has come upon you](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-12-22-29-the-kingdom-of-god-has-come-upon-you/) - The opposition to Jesus reached its height in Matthew 12.14 when the religious leaders decided to kill Him. So they began to look for any opportunity to accuse Him. In Matthew 12.22-29, Jesus is accused of collusion with the devil. Let’s read this passage.Matthew 12.22. Then there was brought to Him a demon-possessed man who
- [Matthew 12.30b | He who does not gather with Me scatters](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-12-30b-he-who-does-not-gather-with-me-scatters/) - In spiritual warfare, neutrality is impossible. Jesus says in Matthew 12.30, He who is not with Me is against Me; and he who does not gather with Me scatters. We studied this verse in our last lesson and we mentioned that the action of gathering is closely related to the building up of God’s temple
- [Matthew 12.30a | He who is not with Me is against Me](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-12-30a-he-who-is-not-with-me-is-against-me/) - When it comes to deciding about Christ, there is no place for ambivalence. Jesus’ expectation is very clear: He demands complete allegiance from His followers. This is how it is worded in Matthew 12.30.Matthew 12.30. He who is not with Me is against Me; and he who does not gather with Me scatters. Text format
- [Matthew 12.31-32 | Blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-12-31-32-blasphemy-against-the-spirit-will-not-be-forgiven/) - One of the glories of the Christian faith is the emphasis that the Bible puts on the wideness of God’s forgiveness. It is open for every man to receive. But the mercy of God has a limit. There is a kind of sin that cannot be forgiven. It is called by Jesus, ‘The blasphemy against
- [Matthew 12.38-42 | No sign shall be given but the sign of Jonah](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-12-38-42-no-sign-shall-be-given-but-the-sign-of-jonah/) - The Pharisees showed their hypocrisy when they asked Jesus for a sign proving that He was the Messiah. They were obviously not seeking to know Jesus. They had already seen so many proofs that He was the Messiah. Another miraculous work will not change their minds because they had decided already not to believe Him.
- [Matthew 12.43-45 | The last state of that man is worse](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-12-43-45-the-last-state-of-that-man-is-worse/) - In spiritual warfare, there is no room for neutrality. The Lord Jesus makes it plain in Matthew 12.30 where He says, He who is not with Me is against Me. This point is illustrated in a passage that is often called, ‘The return of the evil spirit.’ Let’s read this passage.Matthew 12.43. "When an unclean
- [Luke 8.4-8 | The parable of the sower (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-8-4-8-the-parable-of-the-sower-2/) - We will continue today our study of the parable of the sower. We mentioned in our previous lesson that the first soil represents people whose hearts are not open to the word of God. They are unbelievers who pay no attention to the message of the gospel. We come now to the second type of
- [Luke 8.4 | The parable of the sower (3)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-8-4-the-parable-of-the-sower-3/) - We will return today to the parable of the sower in Luke 8. This time, we will approach it from a different angle. The parable of the sower, as you know, is a foundation parable. It sums up most effectively the Lord’s whole teaching on salvation. This lesson will be divided into two parts. In
- [Matthew 13.10-17 | The purpose of parables](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-13-10-17-the-purpose-of-parables/) - Placed between the parable of the sower and its explanation, there is a section of great importance in which we see the disciples asking Jesus why He taught in parables. This is an excellent question indeed. Why did the Lord Jesus teach in parables rather than using plain statements? We will explore Jesus’ answer to
- [Luke 8.4-8 | The parable of the sower (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-8-4-8-the-parable-of-the-sower-1/) - The parables are central in Jesus’ teaching. Depending on what we count as a parable, there are approximately fifty that appear in the synoptic gospels. We will study the major parables of Jesus, starting today with the parable of the sower. Text format available.Read and download this episode in text format on our website at
- [Luke 8.16-18 | The parable of the lamp and the measure](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-8-16-18-the-parable-of-the-lamp-and-the-measure/) - The parable of the sower is immediately followed both in Mark and Luke by another parable, a parable concerning a lamp and a measure. It is found in Luke 8:16-18, and also in Mark 4.21-25 with a slightly different wording. Let’s read the passage in Luke.Luke 8.16. "No one after lighting a lamp covers it
- [Mark 4.26-29 | The parable of the growing seed](https://meetingwithchrist.com/mark-4-26-29-the-parable-of-the-growing-seed/) - Spiritual growth cannot be measured by a stopwatch. The kingdom of God may begin in a person’s life in an instant, but its growth becomes visible only with the passing of time and the practice of faithfulness. This is one aspect of the kingdom of God that Jesus describes in the parable of the growing
- [Matthew 13.24-30 | The parable of the tares](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-13-24-30-the-parable-of-the-tares/) - The parable of the tares is peculiar to the gospel of Matthew, just like the parable of the growing seed (which we studied in our previous lesson) is only found in Mark. Let’s read this story about the sowing of wheat and weeds.Matthew 13.24. Another parable He put forth to them, saying: "The kingdom of
- [Matthew 13.31-32 | The parable of the mustard seed](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-13-31-32-the-parable-of-the-mustard-seed/) - In our previous lesson, we were studying the parable of the tares, a parable describing the kingdom of heaven. We saw that the kingdom’s present state here on earth is imperfect. It is a kingdom in which wheat and tares are mixed. The good is mixed with the bad. Such description of the kingdom makes
- [Matthew 13.44 | The parable of the hidden treasure (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-13-44-the-parable-of-the-hidden-treasure-2/) - We mentioned in our last lesson that the parable of the lost treasure can be interpreted in two different ways. The first interpretation understands the treasure to represent Jesus and the believer as the man who sold everything to get it. This is the view we explained the last time.Today we will defend the other
- [Matthew 13.33 | The parable of the leaven](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-13-33-the-parable-of-the-leaven/) - Whenever Jesus taught people about the kingdom of God, He often used examples taken directly from everyday life. The parable of the leaven is one good example. Let’s read this short parable.Matthew 13.33. Another parable He spoke to them: "The kingdom of heaven is like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three measures
- [Matthew 13.44 | The parable of the hidden treasure (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-13-44-the-parable-of-the-hidden-treasure-1/) - Matthew’s chapter of parables (Matthew 13) contains two parables that form a pair. We can say that they are twin parables because they are almost identical. We are talking of course about the parables of the hidden treasure and of the pearl. Even though they are very closely related, we will study them separately. Let’s
- [Matthew 13.45-46 | The parable of the pearl](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-13-45-46-the-parable-of-the-pearl/) - The kingdom of God as proclaimed by the Lord Jesus is described as something exciting and extremely valuable in the parable of the pearl. Let’s read that story.Matthew 13.45. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking fine pearls,46 and upon finding one pearl of great value, he went and sold all that
- [Matthew 13.47-50 | The parable of the dragnet](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-13-47-50-the-parable-of-the-dragnet/) - The last parable in Matthew 13 is called the parable of the dragnet. It closes a series of seven parables with a comparison of the kingdom of God to a fishing scene. Let us read this passage.Matthew 13.47. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net which was thrown into the sea and gathered
- [Matthew 14.13-21 | You give them something to eat](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-14-13-21-you-give-them-something-to-eat/) - In the NT, there is only one miracle of Jesus that is recorded in all the gospels. It is a passage known as ‘the feeding of the five thousand.’ We can read this extraordinary story in Matthew 14.13-21, Mark 6.33-44, Luke 9.11-17, and John 6.2-14. The fact that all four evangelists recorded it shows that
- [Matthew 13.51-52 | Scribes trained for the kingdom of heaven](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-13-51-52-scribes-trained-for-the-kingdom-of-heaven/) - In Matthew 13.51-52, we find these sentences. These are the words of our Lord Jesus addressed to His disciples.Matthew 13.51. "Have you understood all this?" They said to him, "Yes."52 And he said to them, "Therefore every scribe who has been trained for the kingdom of heaven is like a householder who brings out of
- [Matthew 14.22-33 | Come to me on the water](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-14-22-33-come-to-me-on-the-water/) - The story about Jesus and Peter walking on the water is a vivid lesson about the role of faith in being a disciple of Christ. This very unusual incident is spoken of in three gospels. We read about it in Matthew, in Mark, and also in John. Each evangelist tells the story from his own
- [Matthew 15.21-28 | O woman, great is your faith](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-15-21-28-o-woman-great-is-your-faith/) - The Lord Jesus has many times rebuked the disciples for their ‘little faith’ (Matthew 8.26; 14.31; 16.8). By contrast, there is one person to whom Jesus said, Great is your faith. And this person turns out to be a Gentile. We are told specifically that she is a Canaanite, a term which has inevitable OT
- [Matthew 18.5-9 | That man through whom the stumbling block comes](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-18-5-9-that-man-through-whom-the-stumbling-block-comes/) - The followers of Christ have to face constant temptations. These temptations are referred to as 'stumbling blocks' in Matthew 18. They are a real danger and Jesus speaks very seriously about them. This is what He teaches in Matthew 18.5-9.Matthew 18.5. "And whoever receives one such child in My name receives Me;6 but whoever causes
- [Matthew 16.13-20 | You are Peter (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-16-13-20-you-are-peter-1/) - There is probably no passage in the teaching of Jesus that has called forth more discussion than Matthew 16.18. In Matthew 16.18, the Lord Jesus says this. And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against
- [Matthew 16.13-20 | You are Peter (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-16-13-20-you-are-peter-2/) - This is the second part of a study on Jesus’ declaration concerning Peter in Matthew 16.18. The Lord said to him, You are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. This passage has given rise to many interpretations, the main point of
- [Matthew 17.14-21 | O faithless and perverse generation](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-17-14-21-o-faithless-and-perverse-generation/) - The Lord Jesus often had to bear with unbelief among His own disciples. The story of the healing of an epileptic boy is one example among many. Let’s read this passage. It contains a wonderful lesson on faith and power. Matthew 17.14-21.Matthew 17.14. And when they had come to the multitude, a man came to
- [Matthew 16.21-23 | You are an offense to me](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-16-21-23-you-are-an-offense-to-me/) - It was clear to the apostles that Jesus was the Messiah. The notion that He was the suffering Messiah was much harder to digest. It required frequent repetition from Jesus to make real to their minds the thought that their Lord had to suffer and be killed. One of those instances is in Matthew 16.
- [Matthew 16.27-28 | Some standing here shall not taste death](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-16-27-28-some-standing-here-shall-not-taste-death/) - The hopes of the disciples about the Messianic reign were crushed when Jesus told them plainly that He was to die. They were not prepared for such a shocking revelation.As an encouragement, the Lord Jesus assured them that though His death was near, yet the time will come when His kingdom will be established with
- [Matthew 17.14-21 | You will say to this mountain](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-17-14-21-you-will-say-to-this-mountain/) - This lesson constitutes the second part of a study on Matthew 17.14-21, a passage describing Jesus healing a boy with an unclean spirit.This mountainThe last time, much of our attention was focused on v. 17 where Jesus said, O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you?Today, we will explore the meaning
- [Matthew 18.1-4 | Unless you become like children](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-18-1-4-unless-you-become-like-children/) - The Lord Jesus, in His teaching, used the example of a child as a model of true discipleship. Most Christians know this passage in Matthew 18 where Jesus instructed His disciples to 'become like children.' Let's read it from v. 1 to v. 4.Matthew 18.1. At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, "Who
- [Matthew 18.10 | Their angels always behold the face of My Father](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-18-10-their-angels-always-behold-the-face-of-my-father/) - In our previous lesson, we were studying Matthew 18.5-9 where Jesus said to His disciples that they must take great care not to cause anyone who believes in Him to stumble. We saw that the stumbling is to be understood in the very serious sense of falling away from Christ.'Because God cares so much for
- [Matthew 18.15-20 | If your brother sins](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-18-15-20-if-your-brother-sins/) - Sin in the Christian community is a matter of great concern for Jesus. It can be so damaging to the church that the Lord lays down very specific steps as to how the problem is to be handled. These steps are described in Matthew 18.15-20. This is what Jesus says.A brother who sinsMatthew 18.15. "And
- [Matthew 18.21-35 | The parable of the unforgiving servant](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-18-21-35-the-parable-of-the-unforgiving-servant/) - The Lord Jesus taught His followers not just to receive forgiveness but also to show such forgiveness. This point is at the heart of the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant. The story is recorded only in Matthew, Matthew 18.21-35. It goes like this.There was a king who called his servants for an appointed day of
- [Mark 9.49-50 | Everyone will be salted with fire](https://meetingwithchrist.com/mark-9-49-50-everyone-will-be-salted-with-fire/) - In the Scriptures, a few verses have the reputation of being ‘one of the most difficult passages in the Bible.’ We are going to study one of those today. The passage that I have in mind is Mark 9.49.We will read v. 50 as well. Mark 9.49-50.Mark 9.49. For everyone will be salted with fire.50
- [Mark 10.46-52 | Your faith has made you well](https://meetingwithchrist.com/mark-10-46-52-your-faith-has-made-you-well/) - In the previous lesson, we were studying the words of the Lord Jesus in Mark 10.32-45, a passage in which Jesus revealed to His disciples that He was about to be put to death. This was actually the third time He told them that He would suffer and die, and that He would be raised
- [Mark 10.32-45 | Whoever desires to become great](https://meetingwithchrist.com/mark-10-32-45-whoever-desires-to-become-great/) - In the last two lessons, we looked at the meaning of Jesus' teaching concerning the first-and-last principle. In Matthew 19.30 and 20.16, He said that the last shall be first and the first shall be last. Today we will continue to examine this principle and we will use the parallel passage in Mark. Mark 10.32-45.Mark
- [Matthew 20.1-16 | The parable of the workers in the vineyard](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-20-1-16-the-parable-of-the-workers-in-the-vineyard/) - In our last lesson, we discussed the meaning of Jesus' words in Matthew 19.30: But many who are first will be last, and the last first. This statement is cited again a few verses later, in Matthew 20.16. Sandwiched between these two verses, we find a story called the Parable of the Workers in the
- [John 7.38 | Rivers of living water](https://meetingwithchrist.com/john-7-38-rivers-of-living-water/) - The Feast of Tabernacles was probably the most popular feast among the Jews. Because of its popularity, it was simply called The Feast (1Kings 8.2). It was celebrated to remember how God protected Israel in its travel across the wilderness to the Promised Land, providing the nation with manna and even water. During that seven-day
- [Matthew 19.1-9 | Let not man separate](https://meetingwithchrist.com/__trashed/) - The Pharisees once asked the Lord Jesus this question: Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any cause at all (Matthew 19.3)? Divorce was an issue which divided the people in Jesus' days. There were two schools of thought. The school of Shammai (conservative) said that a man may not divorce
- [Matthew 19.10-12 | Those to whom it has been given](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-19-10-12-those-to-whom-it-has-been-given/) - In OT times, the possibility of remaining single was not a recognized option. Marriage was instituted by God and therefore it was regarded in the Jewish society as a religious duty and part of the normal life. The propagation of the family was another major reason to get married. Thus marriage was almost universal, and
- [Matthew 19.13-15 | To such belongs the kingdom of heaven](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-19-13-15-to-such-belongs-the-kingdom-of-heaven/) - People often crowded around Jesus for a touch of His hand and His blessing. In Matthew 19.13-15, we see parents bringing their children to Him with the hope that He would lay His hands on them. Let's look at this passage. Matthew 19.13. Then children were brought to him that he might lay his hands
- [Matthew 19.16-21 | If you want to enter life](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-19-16-21-if-you-want-to-enter-life/) - One day, a man ran up to Jesus and asked this question: 'What can I do to have eternal life?' That is a big question, a question which we all want to know the answer. 'What can I do to have eternal life?' Imagine, having eternal life! But I am afraid that you might not
- [Matthew 19.22-24 | It is hard for a rich man](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-19-22-24-it-is-hard-for-a-rich-man/) - It does not take long before a Christian realizes that a large portion of the Bible has to do with money. There are more verses devoted to money than to faith and prayer combined. Jesus spoke more about money than both heaven and hell. In fact, fifteen percent of the recorded words of Jesus were
- [Matthew 19.30 | Many who are first will be last](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-19-30-many-who-are-first-will-be-last/) - The OT prophets looked forward to the time when God would establish his kingship on the world. Their hope was a hope for a divine revolution. Jesus announced the coming of this great revolution when he told people in Mark 1.15 that The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent,
- [Mark 11.12-21 | Let no one eat fruit from you](https://meetingwithchrist.com/mark-11-12-21-let-no-one-eat-fruit-from-you/) - We find in the NT a disturbing passage in which the Lord Jesus exercised His power in order to destroy. Divine power was used for destruction. It is disturbing because the use of power for a purely destructive purpose is quite out of keeping with the character and behavior of the Jesus we know of
- [Luke 10.38-42 | One thing is needful](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-10-38-42-one-thing-is-needful/) - It is more important to hear and obey the words of Jesus than to be busy with other matters, even though they may be commendable of themselves. This is in essence what the Lord Jesus is saying in Luke 10.38-42. Let’s read this passage.Luke 10.38. Now it happened as they went that He entered a
- [Luke 11.5-13 | The parable of the friend at midnight](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-11-5-13-the-parable-of-the-friend-at-midnight/) - The theme of seeking God in prayer appears in many places in Jesus’ teaching. We have for example the parable of the friend at midnight, which is a story that illustrates how a disciple should pray. Let’s read this passage.Luke 11.5. And he said to them, "Which of you who has a friend will go
- [Luke 12.49-50 | I came to send fire on the earth](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-12-49-50-i-came-to-send-fire-on-the-earth/) - In sending his Son on earth, God was to be glorified and sinners were to be saved. Jesus was fully aware that his mission will involve suffering, and ultimately death. Yet He came with a willing and ready mind. In fact, during his entire ministry, his mind was constantly set on finishing the work which
- [Luke 12.13-21 | The parable of the rich fool](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-12-13-21-the-parable-of-the-rich-fool/) - Life does not consist of material possessions. The Lord Jesus points out very clearly this simple truth in the parable of the rich fool. Let’s read this passage. Luke 12.13-21. Luke 12.13. Then one from the crowd said to Him, "Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me."14 But He said to him,
- [Luke 13.6-9 | The parable of the barren fig tree](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-13-6-9-the-parable-of-the-barren-fig-tree/) - The importance of bearing spiritual fruit is repeatedly emphasized in the Bible. Especially significant is the link between the failure to produce good fruit and divine judgment. Jesus makes this connection by telling the parable of the barren fig tree, a story describing a man seeking fruit. This is what we read in Luke 13.6-9.Luke
- [Luke 14.7-11 | The parable of the guests](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-14-7-11-the-parable-of-the-guests/) - The Lord Jesus was not one to mince words. In the midst of the Pharisees who were trying to trap Him in any way, Jesus did not hesitate to admonish them for their arrogance. He gave them a lesson on humility in the parable of the guests. Let’s read that story. Luke 14.7-11. Luke 14.7.
- [Luke 14.12-24 | The parable of the great banquet](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-14-12-24-the-parable-of-the-great-banquet/) - In the spiritual realm, certain things are turned up side down. We saw in our last lesson that the proud are humbled and the humble are exalted. This is mentioned in Luke 14.11 in the parable of the guests. Today we will study another parable, the parable of the great banquet, where we see a
- [Luke 14.25-33 | Count the cost](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-14-25-33-count-the-cost/) - The Lord Jesus was not a salesman. He never tried to sell Christianity. He never asked people to follow Him by telling them only the benefits they would get. On the contrary, He often told them about the difficulties and the hardships they would experience as disciples, and He encouraged them to think carefully about
- [Luke 14.26 | If anyone comes to Me and does not hate](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-14-26-if-anyone-comes-to-me-and-does-not-hate/) - Discipleship is fundamentally a call to allegiance. Jesus is to have first place over everything and everyone. In the gospel of Luke, the Lord mentions father, mother, wife, children, brothers, sisters, and even one's own soul. Nothing else is to be first. Let's read this passage. Luke 14.26.Luke 14.26. "If anyone comes to Me, and
- [Luke 15.1-7 | The parable of the lost sheep](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-15-1-7-the-parable-of-the-lost-sheep/) - God is not a God of the few, a God of the wise, or a God only of those who think they are spiritual. He is a God who will go to great lengths to search for the sinner – any sinner. That is what Jesus wanted to communicate in the parable of the lost
- [Luke 15.11-32 | The parable of the lost son](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-15-11-32-the-parable-of-the-lost-son/) - The parable of the lost son is probably one of the most powerful pictures of the forgiving love of God. Through that story, Jesus presents a vivid illustration of God and His mercy for repentant sinners. The passage goes from Luke 15.11 to v. 32. Since it is rather long to read, I will just
- [Luke 15.8-10 | The parable of the lost coin](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-15-8-10-the-parable-of-the-lost-coin/) - Today we are going to look at this beautiful parable of the Lord's teaching in Luke 15.8-10, what is usually called the Parable of the Lost Coin. I have no hesitation to say that it is a very beautiful parable and yet, it is stated so briefly in these three verses. This is what we
- [Luke 16.1-13 | The parable of the shrewd steward](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-16-1-13-the-parable-of-the-shrewd-steward/) - Of all the parables of Jesus, the parable of the shrewd steward is probably the most difficult one to interpret. The story raises many puzzling questions. Particularly troubling is the commendation by the master of his manager who, in the text, is presented as a dishonest person. How can this unrighteous manager be held as
- [Luke 16.19-31 | The parable of the rich fool and Lazarus (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-16-19-31-the-parable-of-the-rich-fool-and-lazarus-2/) - This lesson forms the second part of a study on the parable of the rich fool and Lazarus. We mentioned in the first part that the kingdom of God is the central theme of Jesus’ parables. This kingdom refers to God’s rule or reign. We used the word ‘kingship’, the kingship of God, and we
- [Luke 16.19-31 | The parable of the rich fool and Lazarus (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-16-19-31-the-parable-of-the-rich-fool-and-lazarus-1/) - Among all the parables that Jesus had taught, there is only one which does not limit its action to events in this world but carries over into the next. It is the parable of the rich fool and Lazarus. Let’s read this interesting story.Luke 16.19. "There was a certain rich man who was clothed in
- [Luke 17.5-10 | The parable of the unprofitable servant](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-17-5-10-the-parable-of-the-unprofitable-servant/) - In order to give His disciples a perspective on the meaning of servanthood, the Lord Jesus told the parable of the unprofitable servant. This story is found in Luke 17.7-10. We will read from v. 5.Luke 17.5. And the apostles said to the Lord, "Increase our faith!"6 And the Lord said, "If you had faith
- [1Peter 3.21 | Baptism (2): a pledge to God](https://meetingwithchrist.com/1peter-3-21-baptism-2-a-pledge-to-god/) - We will continue today our study of the meaning of baptism. We saw the last time that baptism is a sacrament of union. Baptism is the symbol of the union that takes place between the believer and Christ. In our lesson today, I will show you another aspect of baptism. And it is that baptism
- [Luke 18.1-8 | The parable of the unjust judge](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-18-1-8-the-parable-of-the-unjust-judge/) - Christian believers must be patient in prayer until the Lord’s return. That is the teaching of Jesus in the parable of the unjust judge. Let’s read this story. Luke 18.1-8.Luke 18.9. And He also told this parable to certain ones who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and viewed others with contempt:10 "Two men
- [Matthew 21.33-46 | The parable of the wicked tenants](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-21-33-46-the-parable-of-the-wicked-tenants/) - The Parable of the Wicked Tenants has the characteristic of being both historical and predictive. It is historical because Jesus told the history of Israel as God sees it. It is predictive because the Lord revealed precisely what was going to happen to Israel: the nation was going to reject the Son of God. And
- [Matthew 21.28-32 | The parable of the two sons](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-21-28-32-the-parable-of-the-two-sons/) - Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Many Christians are familiar with this verse in James 1.22. 'Don't just listen. Do it.' It summarizes well the parable that we are going to study today. In the Parable of the Two Sons, the Lord Jesus teaches that the
- [Luke 18.9-14 | The parable of the Pharisee and tax-collector](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-18-9-14-the-parable-of-the-pharisee-and-tax-collector/) - We know from personal experience that things are not always what they appear to be. People are not necessarily what they might seem to be on the surface. The parable of the Pharisee and tax-collector causes us to be reminded of this fact of life. It is a story in which we find a reversal
- [Luke 19.11-27 | The parable of the pounds](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-19-11-27-the-parable-of-the-pounds/) - The kingdom of God exists in the present, but is also in a state of expectant fulfillment. It is therefore ‘now’, but at the same time ‘not yet’. Because the Jews struggled to understand this two-stage view of the kingdom, Jesus told the parable of the pounds. He did this by indirectly referring to events
- [Matthew 22.1-14 | The parable of the wedding feast (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-22-1-14-the-parable-of-the-wedding-feast-1/) - The Parable of the Wedding Feast is the third in a series of three and forms the climax to the Parable of the Two Sons (Matthew 21.28-32) and of the Wicked Tenants (Matthew 21.33-46). It contains the good news of an open invitation to salvation. But as we will see, it also contains the sobering
- [Matthew 22.1-14 | The parable of the wedding feast (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-22-1-14-the-parable-of-the-wedding-feast-2/) - We will continue today our study of the Parable of the Wedding Feast. We concluded the lesson the last time by saying that the believer must wear the appropriate clothes at the wedding feast. He must wear a wedding garment. Without that garment, there can be no guarantee of salvation. The parable mentions a man
- [Matthew 22.23-32 | He is not the God of the dead](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-2223-32-he-is-not-the-god-of-the-dead/) - The Sadducees were a political party of priestly and aristocratic tendency which became relatively influential in Israel at the time of Jesus. They had one particularity: they denied the idea of a life after death. The Sadducees accepted only the first five books of the OT as authoritative. For them, the Pentateuch was the supreme
- [Matthew 23.1-12 | Do not do according to their deeds](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-23-1-12-do-not-do-according-to-their-deeds/) - In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus taught how to live. The counterpart of the Sermon on the Mount is, in my opinion, Matthew 23 where Jesus taught how not to live.In this chapter, Matthew 23, Jesus criticized false religion, especially false religious leadership. The tone of His message is extremely harsh. It has a
- [Matthew 23.13-31 | Woe to you … hypocrites (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-23-13-31-woe-to-you-hypocrites-1/) - In our previous lesson, we began the study of Matthew 23, a well-known chapter where Jesus exposed ruthlessly the failings of the religious leaders. Seven times He used the solemn expression 'woe to you.' Six times He called them 'hypocrites.' Twice He spoke of them as 'blind guides,' twice as 'fools and blind,' and once
- [Matthew 23.13-31 | Woe to you … hypocrites (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-23-13-31-woe-to-you-hypocrites-2/) - Matthew 23 contains seven denunciations against the Jewish leaders. 'Woe to you,' Jesus said to the scribes and Pharisees. We saw in our previous lesson that the expression 'woe to you' is an exceptional cry of grief as well as a threatening complaint. We have already discussed woe #1, #2, #3 and #4. In this
- [Matthew 23.13-31 | Woe to you … hypocrites (3)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-23-13-31-woe-to-you-hypocrites-3/) - The Lord Jesus denounced the Pharisees more than any other kind of people. We saw in the last two lessons that in Matthew 23, He called them 'hypocrites' six times (verses 13, 15, 23, 25, 27, 29) and explained various manifestations of that spiritual problem. We saw that it is something perilous, something that will
- [Matthew 23.13-31 | Woe to you … hypocrites (4)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-23-13-31-woe-to-you-hypocrites-4/) - In our last lesson, we were discussing the subject of hypocrisy in Matthew 23 and we saw that hypocrisy is a sin that has catastrophic consequences. When Jesus said, How will you (scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites) escape being condemned to hell (Matthew 23.33)? or He will cut him to pieces and assign him a place
- [Matthew 23.29-31 | You are the sons of those who murdered the prophets](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-23-29-31-you-are-the-sons-of-those-who-murdered-the-prophets/) - In the past few lessons, we have been studying Matthew 23. We spent quite some time on the seven 'woes,' seven accusations against the scribes and the Pharisees for their failure to live up to their position as guardians and teachers of God's law. Today I would like to return to the last woe and
- [Matthew 23.32 | Fill up then the measure of your fathers](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-2332-fill-up-then-the-measure-of-your-fathers/) - We have studied many of Jesus' words and now we are approaching His teaching concerning the last days, the end time. In Matthew 24:3, the disciples asked Jesus, Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age? In theology, the subject
- [Matthew 23.33 | How shall you escape the sentence of hell (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-23-33-how-shall-you-escape-the-sentence-of-hell-1/) - One of the sternest words the Lord Jesus ever used to sinners is found in Matthew 23.33: You serpents, you brood of vipers, how shall you escape the sentence of hell? Jesus was speaking to the Pharisees, calling them serpents and the sons of vipers. ‘You are the offspring of snakes that cannot escape the damnation of
- [Matthew 23.33 | How shall you escape the sentence of hell (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-23-33-how-shall-you-escape-the-sentence-of-hell-2/) - This lesson is the second part of a teaching on hell. We concluded our last lesson by looking at three biblical expressions related to hell: (1) 'the weeping and gnashing of teeth,' (2) 'the fire of hell,' and (3) 'the outer darkness.' We mentioned that though the imagery is different, all these expressions involve the
- [Matthew 23.37-39 | How often would I have gathered your children](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-2337-39-how-often-would-i-have-gathered-your-children/) - Jesus’ great love for Israel is seen in a passage which is often known as ‘Christ’s lament over Jerusalem.’ Let’s read this passage. Matthew 23:37-39. Here Jesus sighed from the depth of His heart and wept.Matthew 23:37. “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, killing the prophets and stoning those who are sent to you! How often would I
- [John 14.21 | I will manifest myself (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/john-1421-i-will-manifest-myself-2/) - This lesson is the second part of a study on the words of Jesus in John 14.21 where the Lord said, I will manifest myself. We saw the last time that when Jesus said, I will manifest myself, He was referring to His resurrection. I will manifest myself means ‘You will see me in my
- [John 14.21 | I will manifest myself (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/john-1421-i-will-manifest-myself-1/) - In discussing the existence of God with non-believers, there are typical questions that can be expected. ‘Prove to me that God exists. Where is God now? Show me that He is real. How can I believe in someone that I don’t see?’ These are certainly fair questions but as we know, they are not necessarily
- [Matthew 25.31-46 | As a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-2531-46-as-a-shepherd-separates-the-sheep-from-the-goats-2/) - This is the second lesson on the teaching of Jesus concerning the separation of the sheep and goats in Matthew 25.31-46. In the first lesson, we discussed mostly the meaning of the goats. What do the goats represent in Matthew 25? We saw that the goats, just like the sheep, represent Christians. Today we will
- [Matthew 25.31-46 | As a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-2531-46-as-a-shepherd-separates-the-sheep-from-the-goats-1/) - In the NT, the theme of separation is often linked with the topic of judgment. In the language of the Bible, separation means judgment. Look at these examples. In Matthew 3.12, the wheat is separated from the chaff. John the Baptist says that the wheat is gathered into the barn while the chaff is burned
- [Matthew 24-25 | The parables of the Second Coming](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-24-25-the-parables-of-the-second-coming/) - In the last two lessons, we studied the Parable of the Talents and the Parable of Ten Virgins. These two parables are found in Matthew 25, from v. 1 to v. 30, and they share the common theme of the Second Coming of Christ. At the end of Matthew 24, we find another parable which
- [Matthew 25.14-30 | The parable of the talents](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-2514-30-the-parable-of-the-talents/) - The topics of judgment, reward and punishment are rather unpopular in Christian circles, and not often preached from the pulpit. But they are important in Jesus’ teaching. In the Parable of the Talents, Jesus taught that while He is away, the believer must do the work of the kingdom faithfully and diligently, knowing that at
- [Matthew 25.1-13 | The parable of the ten virgins](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-251-13-the-parable-of-the-ten-virgins/) - The theme of separating the good from the bad is a frequent theme of the parables. Remember the Parable of the Tares where there is mention of the ‘good’ wheat and the ‘bad’ tares. In the Parable of the Dragnet, Jesus spoke about sorting out the ‘good’ fish from the ‘bad’ fish. Today we are
- [Mark 13.33-37 | Take heed, watch](https://meetingwithchrist.com/mark-1333-37-take-heed-watch/) - The Lord Jesus said that one day He will come back. And He also described how He will come back. It is going to be a sudden and unexpected return. Let’s read His teaching in Mark 13.33-37.Mark 13.33. Take heed, watch; for you do not know when the time will come.34 It is like a man
- [Luke 21.28 | Your redemption is drawing near (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-2128-your-redemption-is-drawing-near-2/) - In our previous lesson, we studied Luke 21.28 and the meaning of redemption. Jesus said, But when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near. We saw that there is an aspect of redemption that is future. We have been redeemed, yes, but we
- [Luke 21.28 | Your redemption is drawing near (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-2128-your-redemption-is-drawing-near-1/) - In the last few lessons, we have been talking about the signs that will be seen at the Second Coming of Christ. These signs will cause terror in the world but will bring joy to those who are anticipating His return. And it is in that context that Jesus declared that the believers' redemption is
- [Matthew 24.29-31 | The sign of the Son of man will appear in the sky](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-2429-31-the-sign-of-the-son-of-man-will-appear-in-the-sky/) - In our previous lesson, we saw that Christ’s return will trigger astronomical happenings worldwide and universally. We read in Luke 21.25-26 that there will be signs in sun and moon and stars… and that the powers of the heavens will be shaken.In the parallel passage, in Matthew 24, we are told that the sun will
- [Luke 21.25-27 | There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-2125-27-there-will-be-signs-in-the-sun-moon-and-stars/) - The most significant event yet to occur in human history is the return of Christ to earth. This will be preceded by signs 'in the sun and moon and stars,' signs that will happen in the heavenly places. Jesus taught these signs to enable His followers to be prepared and strengthened when they take place.
- [Matthew 24.28 | There the vultures will gather](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-2428-there-the-vultures-will-gather/) - While His first coming was quiet, humble and obscure, the Lord Jesus tells us that His second coming will be dramatic, cosmic, and very obvious. The first advent was in the little town of Bethlehem. The second advent will happen in all the skies. He says in Matthew 24.27, For just as the lightning comes
- [Matthew 24.24 | False Christs and false prophets will arise](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-2424-false-christs-and-false-prophets-will-arise/) - The Lord Jesus taught that at the end of the age, many false prophets will appear and they will try to deceive people. They will be able to perform miracles so as to convince people that their claims are true. They will be so convincing that they might even fool God's chosen ones. Let's read
- [Matthew 24.34 | This generation will not pass away](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-2434-this-generation-will-not-pass-away/) - The Lord Jesus taught that His second coming will be sudden and unexpected. But although it will be sudden and unexpected, there will be signs pointing to His coming. All sorts of events will take place leading up to His coming. We saw what these events will be in previous lessons. Then Jesus goes on
- [Matthew 24.15 | When you see the abomination of desolation](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-24-15-when-you-see-the-abomination-of-desolation/) - Matthew 24 contains a conversation between Jesus and His disciples about the future. Jesus said that one day, the temple will be destroyed. Startled, the disciples asked this question: Tell us, when will these things be (the destruction of the temple), and what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of
- [Matthew 28.18-20 | Make disciples](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-2818-20-make-disciples/) - When someone important to us departs, we pay special attention to the last things he or she said. These words become very precious because we know that we will not see that person anymore.Here are the last words of Jesus to his disciples in the gospel of Matthew. Matthew 28.18-20.‘Matthew 28.18. And Jesus came and
- [1Corinthians 6.17 | Baptism (1): a sacrament of union](https://meetingwithchrist.com/1corinthians-617-baptism-1-a-sacrament-of-union/) - Today, I would like to begin a series of lessons on the meaning of baptism. I am often distressed to see that there are Christians who have been baptized without really knowing what it is that they were doing. And some of these people thought that this was some way of joining a club, a
- [Romans 6.3 | Baptism (3): dying to sin](https://meetingwithchrist.com/romans-63-baptism-3-dying-to-sin/) - In our last lesson, we saw that baptism is a pledge, a pledge to God by which you make Him King of your life. You are saying to God, that by His grace, you are going to remain faithful to Him, faithful unto death. This is the exhortation that we find in Revelation 2.10 where
- [Colossians 2.12-13 | Baptism (4): raised with Christ](https://meetingwithchrist.com/colossians-212-13-baptism-4-raised-with-christ-2/) - Today, I would like us to look at another aspect of the meaning of baptism. We have seen in this series on baptism that baptism is a union, union with the Lord Jesus. In this union with Christ, we identify ourselves to Him in His death on the cross. But it doesn’t stop there. This
- [Matthew 26.41 | The flesh is weak](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-2641-the-flesh-is-weak/) - We are approaching the end of our study on the words of Christ and I realize that we never really talked about the biblical concept of the flesh. The Bible teaches that within the immaterial part of man, we find the soul, the spirit, the heart, the conscience, the mind, the will, and … the
- [Luke 22.31-34 | Satan demanded to have you (2)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-2231-34-satan-demanded-to-have-you-2/) - This is the second lesson on Luke 22.31-34 where Jesus reveals that Peter is the object of satanic attack and He has been praying for him. Let’s read the story.Luke 22.31. “Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that he might sift you like wheat,32 but I have prayed for you that your faith
- [Luke 22.31-34 | Satan demanded to have you (1)](https://meetingwithchrist.com/luke-2231-34-satan-demanded-to-have-you-1/) - When a person makes the decision to follow Jesus in baptism, something totally new happens at the spiritual level. He becomes united with Christ. This spiritual and somewhat mystical union brings that person into the realities of the spiritual world. And part of the spiritual realities that a disciple will have to face is the
- [Matthew 24.1-4 | What will be the sign of your coming](https://meetingwithchrist.com/matthew-241-4-what-will-be-the-sign-of-your-coming/) - In the days of Jeremiah, the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem was God's punishment of the Hebrew nation for turning away from Him. In Matthew 24, Jesus declared that the temple will be destroyed again, for the same reason. This prompted the disciples to ask about the signs of His second coming. Let's read
- [Acts 2.38 | Baptism (5): Receiving the Holy Spirit](https://meetingwithchrist.com/acts-238-baptism-5-receiving-the-holy-spirit/) - The topic of baptism is closely linked with the question of the Holy Spirit. Just a superficial reading of the NT gives us already the impression that there seems to be something between ‘baptism’ and the ‘Holy Spirit.’Text format available.Read and download this episode in text format on our website at the following address:https://meetingwithchrist.com/project/acts-238-baptism-5-receiving-the-holy-spirit

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