Apply The Word Sample Book of (Matthew) - NKJV PDF

T HE NE W T ESTA MENT
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FIRST PROOFS
The Gospel According to

Mat the w
For centuries, Jews had anxiously waited for the Messiah, basing their dreams
and expectations on a multitude of Old Testament promises. To Abraham, the fa-
ther of the nation of Israel, God promised that through him “all the families of the
earth [would] be blessed” (Gen. 12:3). To David, Israel’s most beloved ruler, God
likewise promised an enduring kingdom (2 Sam. 7:16). Through the prophets, God
renewed this promise by providing details about the One who would fulfill it (for
example, Is. 7:14; 9:6, 7; Dan. 2:44; 7:13, 14).
Over the years, various figures came and went. Some claimed to be the Messiah; some were
regarded as likely candidates. But none proved convincing or fulfilled the expectations either
of scholars who carefully studied the Scriptures, or of everyday people who developed their
own ideas about what the Chosen One would accomplish.
Then along came Jesus. He claimed to be God’s Son. He performed extraordinary miracles
that seemed to indicate divine power. This rabbi, or teacher, spoke with unprecedented au-
thority and attracted followers from unexpected walks of life. Yet He was largely rejected by
the nation’s spiritual leaders. He died a criminal’s death. How could He be the fulfillment of
God’s promises? Was He really Israel’s Messiah?
Matthew’s Gospel answers with a resounding yes! Matthew’s account is filled with Old Tes-
tament prophecies that point to Jesus as God’s Chosen One (Matt. 1:23; 2:6, 15, 18, 23, to men-
tion just a few). The disciple wanted his fellow Jews to study the Scriptures and see that Jesus is
the Christ, the Son of David, the Son of Abraham, and the Son of God.
However, while this book speaks to Old Testament prophecies, it is more than merely a
Jewish Gospel. It is a global Gospel. In Jesus, all peoples of the world may find hope regardless
of their ethnic or religious background. All are eligible for God’s blessing. All can participate in
His salvation. Every human being is welcome to the unparalleled joy of God’s ways, love, and
values through His Son, Jesus the Messiah.
As a tax collector, Matthew was a member of a group detested by other Jews. Tax collectors
were perceived not only as cheats but as mercenaries serving the Romans. Condemned by re-
ligious leaders as unrighteous and ostracized by the general public as frauds and traitors, they
found friends only among prostitutes, criminals, and other outcasts.
Yet Jesus selected Matthew to follow Him (9:9). Scripture gives no indication why Jesus
chose Matthew, but it does record the Lord’s comment, “Go and learn what this means: ‘I
desire mercy and not sacrifice’ [Hos. 6:6]. For I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners,
to repentance” (Matt. 9:13). Apparently the call of Matthew was an act of mercy—a decision
that outraged smug religionists like the Pharisees. Jesus never condoned nor glorified sinful
choices, but He reached out to people who knew that they were sick and lost. The Book of Mat-
thew shows that Jesus can save anyone—that is, anyone who admits he needs saving.
Early church tradition identifies Matthew as the author of this book. But the Gospel itself
does not name its writer, and it is curious that a man who followed Jesus as closely as Matthew
did would rely so heavily on the work of Mark, who was not among the Twelve. (The Gospel of
Matthew repeats 601 of the 678 verses in the Gospel of Mark, which is believed to have been
the first Gospel written.) One possibility is that Matthew collected Jesus’ teachings, especially
the five discourses that form the structure of the account, but left it to someone else to com-
bine these sayings with much of Mark’s Gospel in order to produce what we know as the Gospel
of Matthew. However the book came to be written, it was probably completed well before the
end of the first century a.d.

FIRST PROOFS
Matthew Introduction 4
Key Events in Matthew
• Wise men search for the King of the Jews and find Jesus (Matt. 2:1–12).
• King Herod orders the execution of all baby boys in and around Bethlehem in an at-
tempt to kill the infant Jesus (Matt. 2:13–18).
• Jesus is tested by Satan in the wilderness (Matt. 4:1–11).
• Jesus delivers the Sermon on the Mount (Matt. 5–7).
• Jesus calls Matthew to follow Him (Matt. 9:9).
• Jesus feeds the five thousand (Matt. 14:13–21).
• Peter confesses that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God (Matt. 16:13–28).
• Peter, James, and John witness the transfiguration of Jesus and the appearance of Moses
and Elijah (Matt. 17:1–9).
• Crowds cheer as Jesus enters Jerusalem on a donkey. (Matt. 21:1–11).
• Pontius Pilate washes his hands, saying he is innocent of Jesus’ blood since the multi-
tude is determined to kill Him (Matt. 27:24).
• Jesus is crucified between two thieves (Matt. 27:35–54).
• Jesus rises from the dead (Matt. 28:1–10).
• Jesus commands His followers to make disciples of the nations (Matt. 28:16–20).
THE LAND OF LEBANON

THE GOSPELS Beirut
er
Riv
A
Sidon
ICI
ni
Damascus
Lita
EN
PHO
Tyre
Area of
Golan
Heights
SYRIA
Detail
Capernaum
GALILEE
Nazareth DE
C
Jordan R i ver
Caesarea
AP
West
OL
Bank
Tel Aviv
IS
Sea SAMARIA PEREA

r ranean
Medite Amman
Jerusalem
Bethlehem
Gaza Dead
A
JUDE Sea
IDUMEA
ISRAEL JORDAN
EGYPT
denotes modern day
denotes New Testament
Sinai 0 25 50 75
N
MILES

FIRST PROOFS
5 Matthew 1:23
M atthew
The Genealogy of Jesus Christ David until the captivity in Babylon are
1 ‌ he book of the genealogy of Jesus

T
Christ, the Son of David, the Son of
Abraham:
fourteen generations, and from the captiv
ity in Babylon until the Christ are fourteen
generations.
2 Abraham begot Isaac, Isaac begot
Jacob, and Jacob begot Judah and his Christ Born of Mary
18 Now the birth of J esus Christ was
brothers. 3 Judah begot Perez and Zerah
by Tamar, Perez begot Hezron, and Hez as follows: After His mother Mary was
ron begot Ram. 4Ram begot Amminadab, betrothed to Joseph, before they came
Amminadab begot Nahshon, and Nahshon together, she was found with child of the
begot Salmon. 5Salmon begot Boaz by Ra Holy Spirit. 19 T hen Joseph her husband,
hab, Boaz begot Obed by Ruth, Obed begot being a just man, and not wanting to make
Jesse, 6and Jesse begot David the king. her a public example, was minded to put
David the king begot Solomon by her her away secretly. 20But while he thought
who had been the wifea of Uriah. 7Sol about these things, behold, an angel of the
omon begot Rehoboam, Rehoboam begot Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying,
Abijah, and Abijah begot Asa.a 8Asa begot “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to
Jehoshaphat, Jehoshaphat begot Joram, take to you Mary your wife, for that which
and Joram begot Uzziah. 9Uzziah begot is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.
21And she will bring forth a Son, and you
Jotham, Jotham begot Ahaz, and Ahaz be
got Hezekiah. 10Hezekiah begot Manasseh, shall call His name Jesus, for He will save
Manasseh begot Amon,a and Amon begot His people from their sins.”
22 So all this was done that it might be
Josiah. 11Josiah begot Jeconiah and his
brothers about the time they were carried fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord
away to Babylon. through the prophet, saying: 23“Behold, the
12 And after they were brought to Bab virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son,
ylon, Jeconiah begot Shealtiel, and Sheal and they shall call His name Immanuel,” a
tiel begot Zerubbabel. 13Zerubbabel begot which is translated, “God with us.”
Abiud, Abiud begot Eliakim, and Eliakim
1:6 a Words in italic type have been added
begot Azor. 14 Azor begot Zadok, Zadok be for clarity. They are not found in the original
got Achim, and Achim begot Eliud. 15Eliud Greek. 1:7 a NU‑Text reads Asaph.
begot Eleazar, Eleazar begot Matthan, and 1:10 a NU‑Text reads Amos. 1:23 a Isaiah 7:14.
Matthan begot Jacob. 16And Jacob begot Words in oblique type in the New Testament are
Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was quoted from the Old Testament.
born Jesus who is called Christ.
17So all the generations from Abraham
to David are fourteen generations, from Jesus’ Family Tree
Matt. 1:1–16
Matthew Genealogies may seem irrelevant, but they

Matt. 1:1 serve multiple important purposes. Matthew
opens his book with Jesus’ family tree to
demonstrate at least three crucial facts:
Name Means “Gift of the Lord.”
1. Jesus was God’s Son yet a flesh-and-
Also known as: Levi. blood human being. This is a difficult
Home: Capernaum, the headquarters of Jesus’ concept but central reality (see “Jesus’
ministry; later, Damascus. Family Line” at Luke 3:23–38). We
Family: Son of Alphaeus. worship a God who actually knows what
it’s like to live as a human being (see
Occupation: Tax collector; later, a writer and Heb. 2:17-18, 4:14-16).
pastor in Damascus. 2. Jesus was Israel’s long-awaited Messiah.
Special interests: Collecting Jesus’ sermons Note how prominently David and
and stories. He preserved them in a book Abraham appear.
regarded by some as a new Torah because it 3. Jesus is Savior of every tribe and every
shows Jesus fulfilling Old Testament prophecy nation. His genealogy reaches beyond
and reshaping Mosaic law. the Jews to include other ethnic groups
Best known as: The author of the Book of (see “The Women in Jesus’ Genealogy”
Matthew. at Matt. 1:3–6). Jesus came to “make
disciples of all the nations” (28:19).
Think About It: What obstacles do you suppose
Matthew faced by switching occupations from More: See “The Purpose of Genealogies” at
disreputable tax collector to more honorable Gen. 5:1 and “Genealogies: Records of God’s
work? How might he have managed these? Grace” at 1 Chr. 1:29.

FIRST PROOFS
Matthew 1:24 6
24 T hen Joseph, being aroused from
God-With-U s sleep, did as the angel of the Lord com
Matt. 1:23 manded him and took to him his wife, 25and
did not know her till she had brought forth
Jesus is Immanuel, “God-With-Us” (Is. 7:14). her firstborn Son.a And he called His name
Rather than demand that we attempt the Jesus.
impossible task of reaching Him, God came
to us as a human being and took up resi- Wise Men from the East
dence in our world (John 1:14). He showed
us how to live. He brought a salvation that
invites us not to escape the world but to en-
2 ‌ ow after Jesus was born in Bethlehem
N
of Judea in the days of Herod the king,
behold, wise men from the East came to
gage our surroundings. Because God is with Jerusalem, 2saying, “Where is He who has
us, we can undertake the tasks He has for been born King of the Jews? For we have
us right where we live and work. Since He seen His star in the East and have come to
is with us, we have the power to face the worship Him.”
3 W hen Herod the king heard this, he
world (see “You Shall Receive Power” at Acts
1:8). And rather than taking us out of the was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.
4 And when he had gathered all the chief
turmoil of life in this world, Jesus walks with
us through it. priests and scribes of the people together,
1:25 a NU‑Text reads a Son.
The Women in Jesus’ Genealogy

Matt. 1:3– 6
Matthew’s genealogy highlights four women in Jesus’ background in addition to His mother
Mary. Each was touched by scandal, and all were remembered in part as sinners and foreigners.
Their inclusion shows that Jesus is the Messiah for women as well as men, and for people dispar-
aged by others for their bloodlines or past behavior. He is the Messiah for all people, regardless
of gender, ethnicity, or past mistakes.
Tamar (Matt. 1:3; Gen. 38:1–30) • Migrated to Israel with her mother-in-law

• Widowed by Er, Judah’s firstborn son. Naomi.
• Married Onan, Judah’s second son, who • Married Boaz (Rahab’s son) and gave
refused to consummate their marriage. His birth to Obed, making her David’s great-
death left her childless and with no means grandmother. Ruth and Boaz’s marriage
of support. joined hostile nations—Israel and Moab—
• Sent home to her own village by her father- to accomplish God’s will.
in-law Judah, who shirked his responsibility
to provide another husband.
Uriah’s Wife (Matt. 1:6;
• Prostituted herself to trick Judah into 2 Sam. 11:1—12:25)
fathering an heir to provide for her. The • Unnamed by Matthew but named in the
child continued the family line that led to Old Testament: Bathsheba, wife of Uriah
Jesus. Judah acknowledged that Tamar was the Hittite.
“more righteous than I” (Gen. 38:26). • Attracted King David’s interest while she
was taking a bath on her roof.
Rahab (Matt. 1:5; • Summoned by King David, who committed
Josh. 2:1–24; 6:22–25) adultery with her.
• A Canaanite prostitute in Jericho. • Endured David’s murder of her husband
• Sheltered two Hebrew spies in exchange for and the death of the child she conceived
protection from Israelites surrounding the by David as a result of their adultery.
city. • Married David and gave birth to a second
• Married a Hebrew and gave birth to Boaz, child, David’s successor Solomon. If
David’s great-grandfather. Bathsheba was a Hittite like Uriah, then
• Praised for her trust (Heb. 11:31) and for Solomon was half-Jew, half-Gentile.
putting faith into action (James 2:25). However, she was more likely a Hebrew
who had married a Hittite sojourner.
Ruth (Matt. 1:5; the Book of Ruth)
• A woman from Moab, a nation born through More: See Tamar’s profile at Gen. 38:6; Rahab’s
Lot’s incest with his daughters (Gen. 19:30– profile at Josh. 2:3; and Ruth’s profile at Ruth 1:4.
38); Moab was a bitter enemy of Israel. To learn more about Bathsheba, see “Admit Early,
• Left alone and childless when her Hebrew Don’t Cover-Up” at 2 Sam. 11:4, 5.
husband died.

FIRST PROOFS
7 Matthew 2:9
he inquired of them where the Christ was 7 T hen Herod, when he had secretly
to be born. called the wise men, determined from
5So they said to him, “In Bethlehem of them what time the star appeared. 8 And
Judea, for thus it is written by the prophet: he sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go
6 ‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of and search carefully for the young Child,
and when you have found Him, bring back
Judah, word to me, that I may come and worship
Are not the least among the rulers Him also.”
of Judah; 9 W hen they heard the king, they de
For out of you shall come a parted; and behold, the star which they had
Ruler seen in the East went before them, till it
Who will shepherd My people
a
Israel.’ ” 2:6 a Micah 5:2
A Month-L ong Journey with Jesus

Matt. 1:18—2:23
The most important thing The Life Application Bible can do is help Day 1
people know Jesus Christ. Nothing matters more than our relationship
Matt. 1:18—2:23
with Him. These 31 readings, listed in the order of their occurrence in
the New Testament, are a good way to begin getting acquainted with Jesus is born,
our Savior. then becomes a
refugee as an evil
king seeks to kill
Him. Finally, His
family returns
home.
Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5 Day 6

Matt. 4:1–11 Matt. 13:54–58 Matt. 23:1–39 Matt. 25:31–46 Mark 4:1–41
Jesus con- Jesus faces re- Jesus speaks Jesus judges Jesus begins
fronts very real jection based on out against mankind ac- to explain the
temptations. His family, their deceit, pride, and cording to mercy kingdom of God,
work, and the hypocrisy. and compassion using stories and
small size of His rather than images from the
hometown. outward displays workplace.
of spirituality.

Luke 2:1–52 Luke 4:14–37 Luke 6:17–49 Luke 9:18–36 Luke 22:1—24:53
Luke describes Jesus goes public Jesus teaches ba- Jesus talks with Jesus is betrayed,
events connected with His purpose sic truths about His followers judged, exe-
with Jesus’ birth and immediate- attitudes, charity, about who He is. cuted, buried,
and tells of an ly encounters evaluating oth- resurrected, and
incident during a opposition. ers, and making reconnected with
boyhood trip to wise decisions. His followers.
Jerusalem.

John 1:1–18 John 5:19–47 John 6:35–51 John 8:12–30 John 10:1–18
John, one of Jesus explains His Jesus teaches that Jesus announces Jesus asserts that
Jesus’ followers, relationship with He is the Bread that He is the He is the Good
describes how His Father and of Life and shares Light of the Shepherd who
God became a its implications how people can World. seeks His Father’s
man through for us. find Him. lost sheep.
Christ, who is
full of grace and
truth.
continued on next page 

FIRST PROOFS
Matthew 2:10 8
came and stood over where the young Child
The Gifts of the Magi was. 10 W hen they saw the star, they rejoiced
Matt. 2:11 with exceedingly great joy. 11And when
they had come into the house, they saw the
Scripture does not say what happened to young Child with Mary His m other, and fell
down and worshiped Him. And when they
the gifts that the wise men presented to had opened their treasures, they presented
Jesus. Their “gold, frankincense, and myrrh” gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
were an expression of the Magi’s worship of 12 T hen, being divinely warned in a
the newborn King. Some have supposed dream that they should not return to Herod,
that the costly gifts may have enabled Jesus’ they departed for their own country anoth
family’s flight to Egypt (Matt. 2:13–15). er way.
The angel’s warning to Joseph was sud-
den and unexpected. There was no time The Flight into Egypt
13Now when they had departed, behold,
to save money for the journey, if saving
was even an option. Jesus’ family was in- an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph
disputably poor (see “A Lowly Sacrifice for in a dream, saying, “Arise, take the young
Child and His mother, flee to Egypt, and
the Highest” at Luke 2:22–24), and the gifts
stay there until I bring you word; for Herod
they received from the wise men probably will seek the young Child to destroy Him.”
represented more wealth than Joseph and 14 W hen he arose, he took the young
Mary would see in a lifetime. God promises Child and His mother by night and departed
to care for His children’s needs (Matt. 6:19– for Egypt, 15and was there until the death
34), and in this case, the offerings of strang- of Herod, that it might be fulfilled which
ers may have paid for a new life in a foreign was spoken by the Lord through the proph
land. et, saying,“Out of Egypt I called My Son.” a
2:15 a Hosea 11:1
 continued from previous page

John 11:1—12:8 John 14:1—15:8 John 21:15–25 Acts 2:22–42 Rom. 5:1–21
Jesus describes Jesus explains Jesus loves Peter, Peter explains Paul explains
His relationship that He is the even though he Jesus to a how Jesus sets
with some of His Way, the Truth, had denied Him massive crowd people free from
friends and their and the Life. and was jealous in Jerusalem and sin and makes
profound love of another welcomes 3,000 them acceptable
and care for each disciple. people into the to God.
other. faith.
1 Cor. 15:1–28 Eph. 1:3–14 Phil. 2:5–16 Col. 1:15–22 1 Thess. 4:13—
Paul teaches Paul describes Paul explains Paul states that 5:11
about Jesus’ Jesus’ work for the choices Jesus Jesus is Lord of Paul testifies
resurrection and us from three made in order all—yesterday, that Jesus will
the destruction vantage points: to become a today, and return and bring
of our enemy, before creation, man, as well as tomorrow. history to its
death. in the present, the choices we culmination.
and in eternity. should make in
following Him.

Heb. 1:1—2:18 Heb. 4:14—5:10 Heb. 9:23—10:18 1 Pet. 1:1–12 Rev. 5:1–14;
The author The author of Jesus takes away Peter explains 22:1–21
of Hebrews Hebrews asserts sin, once and for that our salvation Jesus will rule
describes Jesus’ that Jesus has all. Forgiveness is in Jesus is a heaven and earth
complete and experienced ours in Him. reality that even and will welcome
wonderful work every kind of test the angels and believers to eter-
on our behalf. or trial we will Old Testament nal life with Him
ever face. prophets did not in heaven.
understand.

FIRST PROOFS
9 Matthew 3:3
Massacre of the Innocents to Joseph in Egypt, 20 saying, “Arise, take
16 T hen Herod, when he saw that he was the young Child and His mother, and go
deceived by the wise men, was exceedingly to the land of Israel, for those who sought
angry; and he sent forth and put to death all the young Child’s life are dead.” 21 T hen he
the male children who were in Bethlehem arose, took the young Child and His moth
and in all its districts, from two years old er, and came into the land of Israel.
22 But when he heard that Archelaus
and under, according to the time which he
had determined from the wise men. 17 T hen was reigning over Judea instead of his fa
was fulfilled what was spoken by Jeremiah ther Herod, he was afraid to go there. And
the prophet, saying: being warned by God in a dream, he turned
18 “A voice was heard in Ramah,
aside into the region of Galilee. 23And he
came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth,
Lamentation, weeping, and great that it might be fulfilled which was spoken
mourning, by the prophets, “He shall be called a Naz
Rachel weeping for her children, arene.”
Refusing to be comforted,
Because they are no more.” a
John the Baptist Prepares the Way
The Home in Nazareth
19Now when Herod was dead, behold,
3 I‌n those days John the Baptist came
preaching in the wilderness of Judea,
2 and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of
an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream heaven is at hand!” 3For this is he who was
spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, saying:
Jesus the Refugee “The voice of one crying in the
wilderness:
Matt. 2:13–15 ‘Prepare the way of the Lord;
Make His paths straight.’ ” a
2:18 a Jeremiah 31:15 3:3 a Isaiah 40:3
Grieving the Loss of a Child

E
LILE
Sea of
Matt. 2:16–18
GA
Nazareth Galilee
Mediterranean Sea
RIA
A
SAM In Matthew 2:18, Matthew quotes the
Bethlehem prophet Jeremiah’s description of Rachel as
JUDEA Dead wailing over the exiled tribes (Jer. 31:15).
Alexandria Gaza Sea Rachel had lots of experience with tears. Her
father tricked her fiancé into marrying her
Sinai
0 30 60
sister. After she did finally get married, she
EGYPT MILES
N remained childless for years (Gen. 29:1—
30:24). And just as Rachel could not be com-
The nativity story in Matthew shows Jesus as forted, the weeping in Bethlehem could not
a refugee fleeing certain death in His home- have been quickly silenced. The murdered
land. The family found political sanctuary in babies of Bethlehem and the scattered exiles
Egypt, avoiding the infanticide ordered by of Israel shared a common bond: in both
King Herod, the ruthless ruler of Palestine. cases, innocent people suffered as a result
The text does not divulge where exactly of the proud, ungodly acts of the powerful.
the family stayed. They may have found ref- The tragic account in Matthew 2 shows a
uge among the one million Jews estimated to wickedly jealous king slaughtering a village’s
have lived in Alexandria at the time. We do baby boys in order to protect his throne. The
know that Jesus, perhaps close to two years scene reminds us that adult sins still take
old at the start of the journey (Matt. 2:16), the lives of countless children. Like Rachel,
spent at least some of His formative years mothers all over the world weep for their
in Africa. When the family migrated back children—many in developing nations and
to Palestine (2:22, 23), they settled not in a abusive homes.
privileged neighborhood but in Nazareth, a Jesus offers comfort to all who grieve the
small town in rural Galilee. loss of a child. The deaths of the infant boys
Jesus identifies with the displaced peo- of Bethlehem must have been a pain He car-
ples of the world. He is a worldwide Savior ried throughout His life and onto the cross.
who understands the trauma of being forced Significantly, Jesus went out of His way to
to emigrate due to natural disasters, famine, affirm and bless children, and warn adults
or political unrest. of the perils of misleading them (Matt. 18:6,
7; 19:13–15). “Let the little children come to
More: Africans played a significant role in bibli- Me,” Jesus said, “for of such is the kingdom
cal history. See “Africans in the Bible” at Jer. 38:7. of heaven” (19:14).

FIRST PROOFS
Matthew 3:4 10
4 Now John himself was clothed in cam Satan Tempts Jesus
el’s hair, with a leather belt around his
waist; and his food was locusts and wild
honey. 5 T hen Jerusalem, all Judea, and all
4 ‌ hen J esus was led up by the Spirit into
T
the wilderness to be tempted by the dev
il. 2And when He had fasted forty days and
the region around the Jordan went out to forty nights, afterward He was hungry.
him 6and were baptized by him in the Jor 3Now when the tempter came to Him, he
dan, confessing their sins. said, “If You are the Son of God, command
7But when he saw many of the Pharisees
that these stones become bread.”
and Sadducees coming to his baptism, he 4 But He answered and said, “It is writ
said to them, “Brood of vipers! Who warned ten, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone,
you to flee from the wrath to come? 8 T here but by every word that proceeds from the
fore bear fruits worthy of repentance, 9and mouth of God.’ ” a
do not think to say to yourselves, ‘We have 5 T hen the devil took Him up into the
Abraham as our father.’ For I say to you holy city, set Him on the pinnacle of the
that God is able to raise up children to temple, 6 and said to Him, “If You are
Abraham from these stones. 10And even the Son of God, throw Yourself down. For
now the ax is laid to the root of the trees. it is written:
Therefore every tree which does not bear
good fruit is cut down and thrown into the ‘He shall give His angels charge over
fire. 11I indeed baptize you with water unto you,’
repentance, but He who is coming after me and,
is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not
worthy to carry. He will baptize you with 3:11 a M‑Text omits and fire. 3:16 a Or he
the Holy Spirit and fire.a 12His winnowing 4:4 a Deuteronomy 8:3
fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly
clean out His threshing floor, and gather Real Temptation
His wheat into the barn; but He will burn up
the chaff with unquenchable fire.” Matt. 4:3
John Baptizes Jesus The account of Jesus’ temptation in Matthew

13 T hen Jesus came from Galilee to John 4:1–11 demonstrates that Jesus understands
atthe Jordan to be baptized by him. 14 And exactly what we endure, because He faced
John tried to prevent Him, saying, “I need the same enticements to sin that we en-
to be baptized by You, and are You coming counter in our lives. And because He was
to me?” able to resist, He can help us do the same
15But Jesus answered and said to him, (Heb. 2:18). He completely understands our
“Permit it to be so now, for thus it is fitting feelings, and He can train us in practical
for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he steps toward doing right despite the appeal
allowed Him. of doing wrong.
16 W hen He had been baptized, Jesus
came up immediately from the water; and More: Temptation is not sin, but giving in is. See
behold, the heavens were opened to Him, “Persistent Prayer” at Luke 11:5–13. Few Bible
and Hea saw the Spirit of God descending teachings have more practical implications than
like a dove and alighting upon Him. 17And the truth that people are fallen and continually
suddenly a voice came from heaven, say battle urges to do wrong. See “Escaping Tempta-
ing, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am tion” at 1 Cor. 10:12, 13.
well pleased.”
The Purpose of Strength Money Temptations

Matt. 3:11 Matt. 4:8–10
If we think that strength is nothing more As we struggle to follow God in a materialistic

than the power to dominate, we will always culture, we are wise to recognize that a long-
be intimidated by those who seem to have ing for money and all that it symbolizes—
more than us—more expertise, experience, prestige, power, luxury, authority—can be a
energy, intelligence. But John the Baptist powerful tool in Satan’s hands. The devil em-
had a different understanding of strength. It ployed this tool in his attempt to draw Christ
was a gift from God to be used for His pur- away from His mission. When we feel tempt-
poses. John’s humility gave him remarkable ed by wealth, whether we have it or yearn for
energy (Matt. 3:5) to welcome and to serve it, Christ’s response in verse 10 equips us. He
others—in this case, the Son of God. fought off wealth’s temptation by recalling
that only God is worthy of worship. Serving
More: Like John, Paul challenged God’s people money will make us a slave. Period.
to cultivate humility, an incredibly powerful
choice. See “Humility: The Scandalous Virtue” More: See “Wealthy People in the New Testa-
at Phil. 2:3. ment” at Matt. 27:57.

FIRST PROOFS
11 Matthew 4:16
‘In their hands they shall bear you up, been put in prison, He departed to Gali
Lest you dash your foot against a lee. 13And leaving Nazareth, He came and
stone.’ ” a dwelt in Capernaum, which is by the sea, in
14
7Jesus said to him, “It is written again, the regions of Zebulun and Naphtali, that
‘You shall not tempt the Lord your God.’ ” a it might be fulfilled which was spoken by
8Again, the devil took Him up on an ex Isaiah the prophet, saying:
ceedingly high mountain, and showed Him 15 “The land of Zebulun and the land of
all the kingdoms of the world and their glo Naphtali,
ry. 9And he said to Him, “All these things By the way of the sea, beyond the
I will give You if You will fall down and Jordan,
worship me.” Galilee of the Gentiles:
10 T hen J
esus said to him, “Away with 16 The people who sat in darkness have
you,a Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall
worship the Lord your God, and Him only seen a great light,
you shall serve.’ ” b And upon those who sat in the region
11 T hen the devil left Him, and behold, and shadow of death
angels came and ministered to Him. Light has dawned.” a
4:6 a Psalm 91:11, 12 4:7 a Deuteronomy
Jesus Begins His Galilean Ministry 6:16 4:10 a M‑Text reads Get behind
12Now when Jesus heard that John had Me. b Deuteronomy 6:13 4:16 a Isaiah 9:1, 2
The King Declares His Kingdom

Matt. 4:17
Jesus began His public ministry with a simple but urgent call for repentance. It was a familiar
message—identical, in fact, to sermons given by John the Baptist, Jesus’ forerunner (Matt. 3:2).
Both men urged their listeners to change their minds and hearts for the sake of what they called
“the kingdom.” But what did that mean?
Who Is the King? When Is the Kingdom?

Most importantly, the kingdom exists because No less puzzling is the question of when the
Jesus is King. He is the Messiah, the Savior kingdom has or will come. As John the Baptist
promised in the Old Testament (1:22, 23; and Jesus began their ministries, they declared
2:6; Is. 7:14; Mic. 5:2). He is not only King of that the kingdom was “at hand” (Matt. 3:2;
Israel but Lord over every nation (see “Jesus’ 4:17). A few years later, when Jesus’ followers
Family Tree” at Matt. 1:1–16 and “A Savior for asked whether He was ready to restore Israel’s
the Whole World” at Matt. 8:10). At the start kingdom, He said that the timing of His reign
of His life, the wise men asked Herod where was something that only His Father could
they could find the King of the Jews (2:2). As know (Acts 1:6, 7). Sometimes the kingdom
Jesus neared His death, the Roman governor seemed to be a present reality (Matt. 12:28;
Pontius Pilate asked Him, “Are you the King of 13:18–23; 21:43). At other times, it seemed to
the Jews?” When Jesus affirmed that He was be a future hope (16:28; 20:20–23; 26:29).
(27:11, 12), Pilate seized upon His response as Theologians still debate if and in what form
reason to crucify Him (27:37). the kingdom has already been established,
whether it is coming presently or in the fu-
Where Is the Kingdom? ture, or if it is coming at all. There is no sim-
Foretold by Scripture and announced by John ple way to understand this essential doctrine.
the Baptist, Jesus arrived to establish His rule. Jesus’ followers have puzzled over His state-
But His agenda disappointed many of His con- ments about the kingdom since the moment
temporaries. They looked back in awe on the He made them. But many agree that Christ’s
brief decades of Israel’s prosperous, peaceful kingdom began with His birth, continues to
monarchy under David and his son Solomon. advance as His people live out the gospel mes-
They read Old Testament prophecies as pre- sage throughout the world, and will not be
dictions that the Messiah would reestablish ultimately realized until He returns.
that political kingdom, with some seeing the
Messiah’s arrival as an opportunity to over- What Is the Kingdom?
throw Rome’s iron rule and set up a free Although we cannot define Christ’s kingdom
Jewish state. But Jesus told Pilate that His king- with precision, we can say that it has to do
dom was not of this world and that no army with Christ’s reign—and with all the people,
fought on His behalf (John 18:36). He told the places, and things over which He rules. This is
Pharisees that the kingdom was not outwardly why Jesus initiated His ministry with a call to
observable but was “within” (Luke 17:21). repentance; the repentance of our sins

FIRST PROOFS
Matthew 4:17 12
17Fromthat time Jesus began to preach The Beatitudes
and to say, “Repent, for the kingdom of
heaven is at hand.” 5 ‌ nd seeing the multitudes, He went up
A
on a mountain, and when He was seat
ed His disciples came to Him. 2 T hen He
Four Fishermen Called as Disciples opened His mouth and taught them, saying:
18And J esus, walking by the Sea of Gal 3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit,
ilee, saw two brothers, Simon called Peter, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
and Andrew his brother, casting a net into 4 Blessed are those who mourn,
the sea; for they were fishermen. 19 T hen He For they shall be comforted.
said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make 5 Blessed are the meek,
you fishers of men.” 20 T hey immediately For they shall inherit the earth.
left their nets and followed Him. 6 Blessed are those who hunger and
21Going on from there, He saw two oth thirst for righteousness,
er brothers, James the son of Zebedee, and For they shall be filled.
7 Blessed are the merciful,
John his brother, in the boat with Zebedee
their father, mending their nets. He called For they shall obtain mercy.
8 Blessed are the pure in heart,
them, 22and immediately they left the boat
and their father, and followed Him. For they shall see God.
9 Blessed are the peacemakers,
For they shall be called sons of God.
Jesus Heals a Great Multitude 10 Blessed are those who are persecuted
23 And J esus went about all Galilee, for righteousness’ sake,
teaching in their synagogues, preaching For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all
11“Blessed are you when they revile and
kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease
among the people. 24 T hen His fame went persecute you, and say all kinds of evil
throughout all Syria; and they brought to against you falsely for My sake. 12Rejoice
Him all sick people who were afflicted with and be exceedingly glad, for great is your
various diseases and torments, and those reward in heaven, for so they persecuted
who were demon-possessed, epileptics, and the prophets who were before you.
paralytics; and He healed them. 25Great
multitudes followed Him—f rom Galilee, Believers Are Salt and Light
and from Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judea, and 13 “You are the salt of the earth; but if
beyond the Jordan. the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be sea
involves a decided change of mind or purpose. values in Matthew 5:3–10, a section of
In terms of the kingdom, it involves: the Sermon on the Mount known as the
Beatitudes (or as some call them, the
1. A change of allegiance. If Christ is the
“beautiful attitudes”). Kingdom people
King, He deserves our honor, loyalty, and
adopt the King’s values and make choices
obedience. We put ourselves under His
in line with those values.
authority and power. Whatever He says,
4. A change of priorities. Kingdom living
we do. That is the essence of our request
changes how we spend time and money.
in the Lord’s Prayer for His kingdom to
Jesus made an inescapable connection
come and His will to be done “on earth
between His kingdom and our attitude
as it is in heaven” (6:10). The citizens of
toward material things (6:24–34). Without
Christ’s kingdom submit to the King’s will.
disparaging the worth of human labor or
2. A change of expectations. The kingdom
the things we need to live in this world,
can be difficult to perceive when the
He challenges us to incorporate kingdom
world seems to grow more distant from
values into our pursuit of success. To
God by the day, which makes it tempting
“seek first the kingdom” (6:33) reshapes
to live as if this present life is all that
our goals, processes, and results.
matters. But the Christian hope counts
5. A change of mission. Whether we are
on the fact that there is far more to life
naturally driven to accomplish great tasks
than what we presently see. Jesus made
or live from day to day without purpose
extraordinary promises about a future
or direction, Jesus alters our outlook.
kingdom for all who follow Him as King.
He gives us a purpose and a mission,
The kingdom may not yet be fulfilled
commanding us to live as His subjects
completely, but it has been established, is
and promote kingdom values in every
spreading, and will last forever (6:13).
part of life. He also wants us to extend His
3. A change of values. Modern culture
message to the far reaches of earth, giving
prizes individual achievement, success,
everyone everywhere the opportunity
independence, and high social status.
to bow to Him as their Savior and King
But kingdom ideals reflect what matters
(28:18–20).
to the King. Jesus described many of His

FIRST PROOFS
13 Matthew 5:24
soned? It is then good for nothing but to be 20For I say to you, that unless your righ
thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. teousness exceeds the righteousness of
14“You are the light of the world. A city the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no
that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15Nor means enter the kingdom of heaven.
do they light a lamp and put it under a bas
ket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light Murder Begins in the Heart
to all who are in the house. 16Let your light 21“You have heard that it was said to
so shine before men, that they may see
your good works and glorify your Father those of old, ‘You shall not murder,a and
in heaven. whoever murders will be in danger of the
judgment.’ 22But I say to you that whoever
is angry with his brother without a causea
Christ Fulfills the Law shall be in danger of the judgment. And
17 “Do not think that I came to destroy
whoever says to his brother, ‘Raca!’ shall
the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to be in danger of the council. But whoever
destroy but to fulfill. 18For assuredly, I say says, ‘You fool!’ shall be in danger of hell
to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one fire. 23 T herefore if you bring your gift to
jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the altar, and there remember that your
the law till all is fulfilled. 19 W hoever there brother has something against you, 24leave
fore breaks one of the least of these com your gift there before the altar, and go your
mandments, and teaches men so, shall be way. First be reconciled to your brother,
called least in the kingdom of heaven; but
whoever does and teaches them, he shall 5:21 a Exodus 20:13; Deuteronomy 5:17
be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 5:22 a NU‑Text omits without a cause.
The Way Up Is Down

Matt. 5:3
Of all the virtues Christ commended in the Beatitudes, it is significant that the first is humility,
being “poor in spirit,” a quality that underlies all the others:
• You cannot mourn (Matt. 5:4) without • You cannot be merciful (Matt. 5:7) without
appreciating how insufficient you are to recognizing your own need for mercy.
handle life by your own strength. • You cannot be pure in heart (5:8) if your
• You cannot be meek (5:5) unless you have heart is filled with pride.
experienced and admitted a need for • You cannot be a peacemaker (5:9) if you
gentleness. believe that you are always right.
• You cannot hunger and thirst for • You cannot stand up for Christ in the face
righteousness (5:6) if you consider yourself of persecution (5:10–12) without putting
already good. Unlike a Pharisee who Him before yourself.
boasted of his righteousness, the humble
tax collector of one of Jesus’ parables More: Humility is a mindset completely foreign to
prayed, “God, be merciful to me a sinner!” our world. See “Humility: The Scandalous Virtue”
and went away justified (Luke 18:13). at Phil. 2:3.
Salt and Light

Matt. 5:13–16
Following Jesus goes far beyond private spirituality. It also involves a believer’s public life, par-
ticularly through work and participation in the community. Jesus used two everyday metaphors
to describe how we should impact our world. He called His followers “salt” and “light.”
In Jesus’ day, salt was used not only to sea- that reflects Jesus’ values, Christians fulfill this
son food but also to preserve it from decay. role, attracting people to the gospel through
This implies that Christians help protect soci- their actions, which become luminous with
ety from moral and spiritual decay, especial- Christ’s love.
ly through work that affects laws and public
opinion. By standing up for Jesus’ values, we More: It was William Tyndale, in his early English
help to prevent the spread of evil. translation of the Bible, who gave us the expres-
Jesus also called us “the light of the world.” sion “the salt of the earth” (Matt. 5:13). Spreading
Light is used both to illuminate and commu- Christ’s message requires more than broadcasting
nicate. Jesus wants us to shine not to bring the facts. See “Faith Impacts the World” at Mark
attention to ourselves but to act as a beacon, 16:15, 16.
pointing people toward Him. By living in a way

FIRST PROOFS
Matthew 5:25 14
and then come and offer your gift. 25Agree Marriage Is Sacred and Binding
with your adversary quickly, while you are 31“Furthermore it has been said, ‘Who
on the way with him, lest your adversary ever divorces his wife, let him give her a
deliver you to the judge, the judge hand you certificate of divorce.’ 32But I say to you that
over to the officer, and you be thrown into whoever divorces his wife for any reason
prison. 26Assuredly, I say to you, you will except sexual immorality a causes her to
by no means get out of there till you have commit adultery; and whoever marries a
paid the last penny. woman who is divorced commits adultery.
Adultery in the Heart Jesus Forbids Oaths
27 “You have heard that it was said to
33 “Again you have heard that it was
those of old,a ‘You shall not commit adul said to those of old, ‘You shall not swear
tery.’ b 28But I say to you that whoever looks falsely, but shall perform your oaths to the
at a woman to lust for her has already com Lord.’ 34 But I say to you, do not swear at
mitted adultery with her in his heart. 29If all: neither by heaven, for it is God’s throne;
your right eye causes you to sin, pluck it out 35nor by the earth, for it is His footstool; nor
and cast it from you; for it is more profit by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great
able for you that one of your members per King. 36Nor shall you swear by your head,
ish, than for your whole body to be cast into because you cannot make one hair white or
hell. 30And if your right hand causes you black. 37But let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your
to sin, cut it off and cast it from you; for it
is more profitable for you that one of your 5:27 a NU‑Text and M‑Text omit to those
members perish, than for your whole body of old. b Exodus 20:14; Deuteronomy 5:18
to be cast into hell. 5:32 a Or fornication
The Sermon on the Mount

Matt. 5:1, 2
As Jesus began His public ministry in Galilee, He cried out, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven
is at hand” (Matt. 4:17). His message quickly spread, drawing huge crowds from Galilee, from
nearby Syria and the Decapolis, and from as far away as Jerusalem, Judea, and places east of
the Jordan River (4:24, 25).
People came to hear about an earthly kingdom. Jesus instead introduced them to a heaven-
ly lifestyle—the new attitudes and actions. With perhaps thousands gathered on a hillside or
“mountain”—the exact location is unknown—Jesus spelled out the implications of repentance.
He required far more than an outward show. He urged His listeners to make such a complete
change of heart and action that they would “be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect”
(5:48).
At first glance the Sermon on the Mount appears to be a lengthy speech detailing kingdom
lifestyle, holding it up like a multifaceted jewel to examine from many angles. But Jesus may
have delivered the contents of Matthew 5–7 on multiple occasions. Parts of the sermon can be
found throughout the Gospels, and like many good teachers, Jesus probably drove home His
message by repeating it at other times and places.
The Sermon on the Mount contains the core of Jesus’ moral and ethical teaching:
• Blessings (5:3–12). The beatitudes show true happiness comes through doing life from God’s
perspective.
• Influence (5:13–16). Jesus wants His followers to be salt and light, to influence the world’s
moral and spiritual climate.
• Morality (5:17–48). Jesus’ listeners intellectually recognized the Law and the traditions
added by generations of rabbis, but Jesus revealed a morality based in the spirit of the Law.
• Spiritual disciplines (6:1–18). Real faith is more than an outward show of religion. It
reshapes our inner character.
• Treasures (6:19–34). Jesus does not denounce earthly possessions, but He displayed the
nature of true treausres
• Right and wrong (7:1–6). Rather than be quick to point out the moral flaws of others, we
should work to remedy our own.
• Asking and receiving (7:7–12). We can take all our requests to God, relying on Him to answer
us as a loving Father. Moreover, God expects us to extend to others the same kind of love.
• Obedience (7:13–29). Jesus wraps up His message with a challenge to obey. Living a lifestyle
worthy of the kingdom results in life and joy; disobedience to His way brings death and
disaster.
When Jesus finished describing this kingdom lifestyle, the people were “astonished” at His
teaching (7:28; literally “overwhelmed” or “stunned”). His voice had the ring of authority (7:29).
How does His ring of authority change what you do and what you say?

FIRST PROOFS
15 Matthew 5:42
‘No,’ ‘No.’ For whatever is more than these one wants to sue you and take away your
is from the evil one. tunic, let him have your cloak also. 41And
whoever compels you to go one mile, go
Go the Second Mile with him two. 42Give to him who asks you,
38 “You have heard that it was said, ‘An
a
and from him who wants to borrow from
eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ you do not turn away.
39But I tell you not to resist an evil per
son. But whoever slaps you on your right 5:38 a Exodus 21:24; Leviticus 24:20;
cheek, turn the other to him also. 40If any Deuteronomy 19:21
Possible location of the

Sermon on the Mount
Sea of Galilee
The Sea of the Sermon

The location where Jesus preached the Sermon on the Mount remains unknown, but the hills
near Capernaum are a traditionally accepted site. As Jesus taught He probably looked past His
listeners down toward the Sea of Galilee, a setting closely connected with His ministry. Much
of His teaching and more than half of His recorded miracles occurred on or around this body
of water.
Situated some sixty miles north of Jerusalem, the Sea of Galilee is actually a freshwater lake
fed by the Jordan River. Its surface is about seven hundred feet below sea level.
The Sea of Galilee supported a thriving fishing industry. Peter, Andrew, and James and John
the sons of Zebedee were among Jesus’ followers who made their living as fishermen. To learn
more, see “The World of the Fishermen” at Luke 5:1–11.

FIRST PROOFS
Matthew 5:43 16
Love Your Enemies even the tax collectors do the same? 47And
43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You if you greet your brethrena only, what do
shall love your neighbor a and hate your en you do more than others? Do not even the
emy.’ 44But I say to you, love your enemies, tax collectorsb do so? 48 T herefore you shall
bless those who curse you, do good to those be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is
who hate you, and pray for those who spite perfect.
fully use you and persecute you,a 45that you
may be sons of your Father in heaven; for a Compare Leviticus 19:18 5:44 a NU‑Text
He makes His sun rise on the evil and on 5:43
omits three clauses from this verse, leaving,
the good, and sends rain on the just and “But I say to you, love your enemies and pray
on the unjust. 46For if you love those who for those who persecute you.” 5:47 a M‑Text
love you, what reward have you? Do not reads friends. b NU‑Text reads Gentiles.
You Have Heard that It Was Said

Matt. 5:17– 48
Some say Jesus was nothing more than a good teacher who wanted people to love each other.
But Jesus was and is the Son of God. Jesus did command us to love our neighbor (Matt. 22:39);
He also taught how to do that, through a wide range of complex personal and moral issues.
In this section of the Sermon on the Mount, This background helps to explain a phrase
some of Jesus’ statements sound extreme (for that Jesus repeats in His sermon: “You have
example, Matt. 5:22, 30, 37, 39–42), and sever- heard that it was said . . . but I say to you”
al are easy to misinterpret. (5:21, 22, 27, 28, 33, 34, 38, 39, 43, 44). Jesus
Understanding this passage begins by re- spoke with integrity and authority about mur-
alizing that Jesus’ references to “the Law” der (5:21–26), adultery (5:27–32), vows and
and “the Prophets” (5:17) were references to oaths (5:33– 37), vengeance (5:38– 42), and
the Old Testament’s moral teaching. Those love and hate (5:43–47). He began His remarks
Scriptures were to govern the moral conduct with an appeal to fulfill the Law (5:17–20)
and character of His Jewish listeners. and concluded with a challenge to act as the
Unfortunately, the people had not heard Father would act (5:48).
the true words of the Law and the prophets. We should not blunt the challenges these
They had instead learned a heavily doctored words present. We should, instead, be care-
version of the Old Testament’s teachings. Their ful to interpret them as Jesus intended: as a
rabbis often stressed the letter of the Law correction of mistaken understandings of Old
rather than its spirit. At times they favored Testament law and as a true expression of His
their own traditions over God’s actual teach- kingdom values.
ing (12:9–12; 15:1–9). Sometimes they twisted
the Law to fit their own agendas (19:3–8). No More: Old Testament law was part of the cov-
wonder Jesus labeled these teachers as hypo- enant that set Israel apart as God’s people. It gov-
crites and warned people not to follow their erned their worship, their relationship to God, and
example (23:1–36). their social interactions. See “Staying Focused” at
Deut. 5:1 and “The Law” at Rom. 2:12.
An Eye for an Eye

Matt. 5:38– 42
At times Jesus’ demands can seem unrealistic: Should God’s people not use force in self-defense?
Should they not contest a lawsuit? Should they comply with all demands that help people?
Should they give and loan without reserve?
In this section of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus challenged the morality of their
it is important to remember that the Lord was approach. He recognized that some circum
addressing issues of justice with allusions to stances call for resistance and self- defense.
Old Testament laws dealing with public ven- The Law sanctioned self- protection when a
geance. The Law limited damages in criminal person was left with no other choice (Ex. 22:2).
cases to no more than the loss suffered, “an He Himself protested when He was slapped
eye for an eye” (Ex. 21:24, 25). However, some (John 18:22, 23). But Jesus warned against
of Jesus’ hearers had appealed to the same needless force, particularly for the sake of re-
texts to justify personal vengeance. Basically, venge. Failing to defend ourselves might lead
they tried to take the law into their own to injury or death. But vengeance inflicts harm
hands. after any immediate danger is past. A slap on

FIRST PROOFS
17 Matthew 6:9
Do Good to Please God you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the
6 ‌“Take heed that you do not do your char heathen do. For they think that they will be
itable deeds before men, to be seen by heard for their many words.
them. Otherwise you have no reward from 8 “Therefore do not be like them. For
your Father in heaven. 2 T herefore, when your Father knows the things you have
you do a charitable deed, do not sound a need of before you ask Him. 9In this man
trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in ner, therefore, pray:
the synagogues and in the streets, that they Our Father in heaven,
may have glory from men. Assuredly, I say Hallowed be Your name.
3
to you, they have their reward. But when
you do a charitable deed, do not let your
6:4 a NU‑Text omits openly. 6:6 a NU‑Text
left hand know what your right hand is do omits openly.
4
ing, that your charitable deed may be in
secret; and your Father who sees in secret
will Himself reward you openly.a Anonymous Givers
The Model Prayer Matt. 6:1– 4
5 “Andwhen you pray, you shall not be
like the hypocrites. For they love to pray Fundraisers know that people are often mo-
standing in the synagogues and on the tivated to donate large sums of money be-
corners of the streets, that they may be seen cause of the prestige they receive in return.
by men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have But Jesus denounced that motivation for
their reward. 6But you, when you pray, go giving. He much preferred the poor widow
into your room, and when you have shut who gave the small amount she could give
your door, pray to your Father who is in the to the wealthy people who gave the large
secret place; and your Father who sees in amounts they would give (Mark 12:41–44).
secret will reward you openly.a 7And when These wealthy men and women may have
appeared pious, but Jesus knew that behind
the scenes they often neglected “the weighti-
Meeting God’s Expectations er matters of the law: justice and mercy and
Matt. 5:43– 48 faith” (Matt. 23:23).
Here, Jesus suggests that a good way to
Jesus does not expect us to meet His high ensure that we are giving from the right
moral standards unaided. When we belong motives is to give anonymously. When the
to Him, we are made into new creatures. The source of our gifts is known only to ourselves
Holy Spirit lives in us and changes us to be- and God, Jesus promises that “your Father
come more like our Lord. See “New Creatures who sees in secret will Himself reward you
with New Character” at Galatians 5:22, 23. openly” (6:4).

the cheek is little more than an insult, leaving to the need to obey those in public positions
no reason for a violent response. Vengeance of authority (see “Governmental Authority” at
belongs to God alone (Deut. 32:35; compare Rom. 13:1–7) rather than a need to obey any-
Rom. 12:19–21), who often uses governing au- one who issues a command.
thorities to carry out His judgment (13:4). When it comes to the issue of lending, Jesus
In the case of lawsuits (Matt. 5:40), the Law was likely making a point not merely about
allowed demanding a shirt (tunic) in pledge personal charity but also about collective,
for a loan but prohibited taking a coat (cloak) societal issues of debt, loans, and repayment.
overnight, because it was needed for warmth Old Testament law prohibited charging inter-
(Ex. 22:26, 27). But in Jesus’ day it was com- est on loans to the poor (Ex. 22:25), required
mon to press for people to inflict heavy dam- that a person’s family be given the opportu-
ages in court, in effect “suing the pants off nity to buy back lands lost due to poverty and
each other.” Christ’s point was that if lawsuits persons sold into slavery, and mandated sab-
have to go to extremes, it ought to be extremes batical and Jubilee years to allow for a regular
of charity. Paul made a similar argument in redistribution of wealth and freedom from ser-
1 Corinthians 6:1–8. vitude (see “The Sabbath Year” at Lev. 25:2–8
In the command to go a second mile and “The Year of Jubilee” at Lev. 25:8–17).
(Matt. 5:41), the word compels means “to These laws were public methods of making
requisition or press into service.” Ancient room for mercy and justice on behalf of the
Persian law permitted postal carriers to com- society’s disadvantaged members.
pel private citizens to help carry their loads. Jesus challenged His followers to respond
The Romans sometimes inflicted similar de- to injustice in ways that actually stopped it. He
mands on bystanders. For example, Roman urged grace in place of vengeance, integrity in
soldiers compelled Simon of Cyrene to carry place of self-interest. It is through acts of sacri-
Jesus’ cross (27:32). Jesus was likely referring fice that we are able to become more like Him.

FIRST PROOFS
Matthew 6:10 18
10 Your kingdom come. stroy and where thieves break in and steal;
Your will be done 20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in
On earth as it is in heaven. heaven, where neither moth nor rust de
11 Give us this day our daily bread. stroys and where thieves do not break in
12 And forgive us our debts, and steal. 21For where your treasure is,
As we forgive our debtors. there your heart will be also.
13 And do not lead us into temptation,
But deliver us from the evil one. The Lamp of the Body
For Yours is the kingdom and the 22 “The lamp of the body is the eye. If
power and the glory forever. therefore your eye is good, your whole body
Amen.a will be full of light. 23But if your eye is bad,
14 “For if you forgive men their tres your whole body will be full of darkness.
passes, your heavenly Father will also for If therefore the light that is in you is dark
give you. 15But if you do not forgive men ness, how great is that darkness!
their trespasses, neither will your Father
forgive your trespasses. You Cannot Serve God and Riches
24“No one can serve two masters; for ei
Fasting to Be Seen Only by God ther he will hate the one and love the other,
16 “Moreover, when you fast, do not be or else he will be loyal to the one and de
like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. spise the other. You cannot serve God and
For they disfigure their faces that they may mammon.
appear to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I
say to you, they have their reward. 17But Do Not Worry
25 “Therefore I say to you, do not worry
you, when you fast, anoint your head and
wash your face, 18 so that you do not appear about your life, what you will eat or what
to men to be fasting, but to your Father who you will drink; nor about your body, what
is in the secret place; and your Father who you will put on. Is not life more than food
sees in secret will reward you openly.a and the body more than clothing? 26Look
at the birds of the air, for they neither sow
Lay Up Treasures in Heaven nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your
19 “Do not lay up for yourselves trea heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of
27
sures on earth, where moth and rust de more value than they? W hich of you by
worrying can add one cubit to his stature?
28 “So why do you worry about clothing?
Stop Worry Consider the lilies of the field, how they
Matt. 6:19–34 grow: they neither toil nor spin; 29and yet I
say to you that even Solomon in all his glo
ry was not arrayed like one of these. 30Now
Of all the scriptures on the topics of money if God so clothes the grass of the field,
and work, Jesus’ words from the Sermon on which today is, and tomorrow is thrown
the Mount are often misused to imply Jesus into the oven, will He not much more clothe
is against money or that He considered you, O you of little faith?
everyday work a distraction from spiritual 31“Therefore do not worry, saying,
matters. ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we
A careful reading of the text shows drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32For after
that Jesus condemned not work but worry all these things the Gentiles seek. For your
(Matt. 6:25, 27, 28, 31, 34). He did not tell us heavenly Father knows that you need all
to quit our daily labors (6:32). God provides these things. 33But seek first the kingdom
for us in many ways—including through our of God and His righteousness, and all these
everyday jobs. things shall be added to you. 34 T herefore do
God makes us responsible for looking not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow
after our physical and material needs. But will worry about its own things. Sufficient
Jesus urged us not to let worry about these for the day is its own trouble.
things overtake our minds and corrupt our
values. Instead of worrying over what might
Do Not Judge
happen, we should work toward everything
falling into place. This happens as we “seek
7 ‌“Judge not, that you be not judged. 2For
with what judgment you judge, you will
be judged; and with the measure you use, it
first the kingdom of God and His righteous- will be measured back to you. 3And why do
ness” (6:33). you look at the speck in your brother’s eye,
More: God gives work as a gift. See “People at but do not consider the plank in your own
eye? 4Or how can you say to your broth
Work” at Ps. 8:6. Despite what many people er, ‘Let me remove the speck from your
think, work is not a curse. See “Work Itself is a eye’; and look, a plank is in your own eye?
Gift from God” at Gen. 3:17–19. Bringing Christ 5Hypocrite! First remove the plank from
into our everyday work has a far-reaching im- your own eye, and then you will see c learly
pact on how we do our jobs. See “Your Work-
style” at Titus 2:9–11. 6:13 a NU‑Text omits For Yours through Amen.
6:18 a NU‑Text and M‑Text omit openly.

FIRST PROOFS
19 Matthew 8:3
to remove the speck from your brother’s cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree
eye. bear good fruit. 19Every tree that does not
6 “Do not give what is holy to the dogs; bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into
nor cast your pearls before swine, lest they the fire. 20 T herefore by their fruits you will
trample them under their feet, and turn and know them.
tear you in pieces.
I Never Knew You
Keep Asking, Seeking, Knocking 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord,
7 “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven,
and you will find; knock, and it will be but he who does the will of My Father in
opened to you. 8For everyone who asks heaven. 22Many will say to Me in that day,
receives, and he who seeks finds, and to ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in
him who knocks it will be opened. 9 Or Your name, cast out demons in Your name,
what man is there among you who, if his and done many wonders in Your name?’
son asks for bread, will give him a stone? 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I never
10 Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him
knew you; depart from Me, you who prac
a serpent? 11If you then, being evil, know tice lawlessness!’
how to give good gifts to your children, how
much more will your Father who is in heav Build on the Rock
en give good things to those who ask Him! 24“Therefore whoever hears these say
12 T herefore, whatever you want men to do
ings of Mine, and does them, I will liken
to you, do also to them, for this is the Law him to a wise man who built his house on
and the Prophets. the rock: 25and the rain descended, the
floods came, and the winds blew and beat
The Narrow Way
13 “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide on that house; and it did not fall, for it was
founded on the rock.
is the gate and broad is the way that leads 26 “But everyone who hears these say
to destruction, and there are many who go ings of Mine, and does not do them, will
14 a
in by it. Because narrow is the gate and be like a foolish man who built his house
difficult is the way which leads to life, and on the sand: 27and the rain descended, the
there are few who find it. floods came, and the winds blew and beat
on that house; and it fell. And great was
You Will Know Them by Their Fruits
15 “Beware of false prophets, who come its fall.”
28And so it was, when Jesus had end
to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly ed these sayings, that the people were as
16
they are ravenous wolves. You will know tonished at His teaching, 29for He taught
them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes them as one having authority, and not as
from thornbushes or figs from thistles? the scribes.
17Even so, every good tree bears good fruit,
but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18A good tree Jesus Cleanses a Leper
Judge Not 8 ‌ hen He had come down from the

W
mountain, great multitudes followed
Him. 2And behold, a leper came and wor
Matt. 7:1–5 shiped Him, saying, “Lord, if You are will
ing, You can make me clean.”
People tend to read their own meaning into 3 T hen J
esus put out His hand and
Jesus’ command to “judge not.” They may touched him, saying, “I am willing; be
assume it means tolerating anything and cleansed.” Immediately his leprosy was
everything. Or never calling out untruth. Or cleansed.
considering one belief or behavior as valid
as the next. 7:14 a NU‑Text and M‑Text read How . . . !
Those each misapply the Lord’s teaching.
Jesus was not commanding acceptance of all Jesus’ Authority
behavior. He was commanding grace toward
others. We should not blame, condemn, or Matt. 7:29
put down others while excusing or exalting
ourselves. We need to quit picking at the fail- Scribes were members of an educated class
ings of others and start attending to our own in Israel who studied Scripture and tradition
failings. and who served as copyists, editors, and
The very next verses command evaluat- teachers (see “Scribes” at Luke 20:39). But
ing others. But we are to approach others as while they held positions of authority, Jesus
Jesus did—with empathy (Matt. 7:12). was the ultimate Person of authority. His ex-
pertise, credibility, and power were features
More: Scripture gives clear guidelines for re- of who He was, not what He learned. The
storing those who have become entangled in scribes had the privilege of learning about
sin. Read Matt. 18:15–17; 1 Cor. 6:1–8; and Jesus and any authority they had was based
Gal. 6:1–5. in Jesus.

FIRST PROOFS
Matthew 8:4 20
4 And Jesus said to him, “See that you
Effective Leaders tell no one; but go your way, show yourself
Matt. 8:5–13 to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses
commanded, as a testimony to them.”
Like Jesus, the centurion was “a man under Jesus Heals a Centurion’s Servant
authority.” The encounter between the two 5Now when J esus had entered Caper
offers essential lessons on authority and naum, a centurion came to Him, pleading
leadership: with Him, 6 saying, “Lord, my servant is
• Effective leaders admit when they need lying at home paralyzed, dreadfully tor
help. The centurion faced a problem mented.”
7And J esus said to him, “I will come and
beyond his own power. He recruited Jesus
to intervene. heal him.”
8 T he centurion answered and said,
• Effective leaders respond with heart.
The centurion felt compassion for his “Lord, I am not worthy that You should
suffering servant and perceived that Jesus come under my roof. But only speak a
word, and my servant will be healed. 9For
possessed power beyond any physician’s I also am a man under authority, having
skill. soldiers under me. And I say to this one,
• Effective leaders show humility. A Roman ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come,’
officer could have ordered Jesus to act or and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’
offered Him money. He instead came in and he does it.”
faith, humbly asking for help. 10 W hen J esus heard it, He marveled,
• Effective leaders recognize the nature of and said to those who followed, “Assured
authority. The centurion understood ly, I say to you, I have not found such great
submission. When he issued a command, faith, not even in Israel! 11And I say to you
his soldiers obeyed. He saw that Jesus had that many will come from east and west,
the same authority over illness. and sit down with Abraham, Isaac, and
• Effective leaders notice when someone is Jacob in the kingdom of heaven. 12But the
worthy of trust. The centurion’s faith was sons of the kingdom will be cast out into
impressive because it was invested in the outer darkness. There will be weeping and
right person. Leadership based on blind gnashing of teeth.” 13 T hen Jesus said to the
faith is foolhardy, but discernment is a centurion, “Go your way; and as you have
mark of a true leader. believed, so let it be done for you.” And his
servant was healed that same hour.
A Savior for the Whole World

Matt. 8:10
Matthew’s Gospel offers insights into Jesus’ Jewish roots and His fulfillment of Old Testament
prophecies of a Messiah for Israel. But it also presents Jesus as a worldwide Savior. Note Jesus’
interracial connections:
Jesus’ Roots a group of foreigners who first came looking

Jesus’ genealogy includes at least two and pos- for the Messiah.
sibly three Gentiles:
The Flight to Egypt
• David’s great-great-grandmother Rahab Egypt provided a refuge for the baby Jesus
was a Canaanite (Matt. 1:5; Josh 2:1–24; from an outraged Herod the Great (Matt. 2:13,
6:22–25). 14). Centuries before, this Gentile nation saved
• David’s great-grandmother Ruth was a Jacob’s family from starvation and became
Moabite (Matt. 1:5; the Book of Ruth). the land where a family grew into a nation
• David’s lover (and later wife) Bathsheba, (Gen. 41:46—46:7).
widow of Uriah (Matt. 1:6; 2 Sam. 11:1—
12:25), may have been a Hittite like Uriah, Jesus’ Childhood in Galilee
although she was more likely a Hebrew Jesus grew up in Nazareth, a small town
married to a Hittite sojourner. of Galilee in the northern part of Palestine
(Matt. 2:22, 23). The region’s multicultural
Wise Men from the East population earned it the name “Galilee of
The first worshipers of Jesus to appear in the the Gentiles” (4:15). Jesus began His ministry
Book of Matthew were not Jews but Gentiles in Galilee, and many of His early followers
from the East (Matt. 2:1–12). The wise men were non-Jews from Syria and the Decapolis, a
may have been astrologers from Persia Gentile region of Palestine (4:23–25).
(modern-day Iran). Whatever the case, it was

FIRST PROOFS
21 Matthew 8:31
Peter’s Mother-in-Law Healed Wind and Wave Obey Jesus
14 Now when Jesus had come into Peter’s 23Now when He got into a boat, His
house, He saw his wife’s mother lying sick disciples followed Him. 24 And suddenly a
with a fever. 15So He touched her hand, and great tempest arose on the sea, so that the
the fever left her. And she arose and served boat was covered with the waves. But He
them.a was asleep. 25 T hen His disciples came to
Him and awoke Him, saying, “Lord, save
Many Healed in the Evening us! We are perishing!”
16 W hen evening had come, they brought 26 But He said to them, “Why are you
to Him many who were demon-possessed. fearful, O you of little faith?” Then He
And He cast out the spirits with a word, and arose and rebuked the winds and the sea,
healed all who were sick, 17 that it might be and there was a great calm. 27So the men
fulfilled which was spoken by Isaiah the marveled, saying, “Who can this be, that
prophet, saying: even the winds and the sea obey Him?”
“He Himself took our infirmities Two Demon-Possessed Men Healed
And bore our sicknesses.” a 28 W hen He had come to the other side,
The Cost of Discipleship to the country of the Gergesenes,a there

18And when Jesus saw great multitudes met Him two demon-possessed men, com
ing out of the tombs, exceedingly fierce, so
about Him, He gave a command to depart that no one could pass that way. 29And sud
to the other side. 19 T hen a certain scribe denly they cried out, saying, “What have
came and said to Him, “Teacher, I will fol
we to do with You, J esus, You Son of God?
low You wherever You go.”
20And J Have You come here to torment us before
esus said to him, “Foxes have
the time?”
holes and birds of the air have nests, but the 30Now a good way off from them there
Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head.” 31
21 T hen another of His disciples said to was a herd of many swine feeding. So the
Him, “Lord, let me first go and bury my demons begged Him, saying, “If You cast
father.” 8:15 a NU‑Text and M‑Text read Him.
22But Jesus said to him, “Follow Me, and
8:17 a Isaiah 53:4 8:28 a NU‑Text reads
let the dead bury their own dead.” Gadarenes.

Living on the Fringes bonds with Samaritans, Gentiles, and others
Matthew shows Jesus breaking His culture’s who lived on the fringes of Jewish society:
hardened habits of discrimination by building
Person or Group Jesus’ Response

A leper, physically diseased and religiously Touched him when others would not; healed
unclean (Matt. 8:2–4) him
A Roman centurion (Matt. 8:5–10) Healed his servant and praised his faith
Two demon-possessed men from a Gentile Delivered them when the town rejected them
region (Matt. 8:28–34)
Matthew the tax collector and his disreputable Called Matthew as a disciple and dined with his
friends (Matt. 9:9–13) friends
A hemorrhaging woman (Matt. 9:20–22) Healed her and praised her faith
The Gentile cities of Tyre, Sidon, and Sodom Said they will be better off than Jewish cities in
(Matt. 11:20–24) the judgment because of Jewish unbelief
Nineveh and the queen of the South Praised their repentance and said they would
(Matt. 12:39–42) judge the Jews of His day
The people of Gennesaret, a Gentile region Healed their sick
(Matt. 14:34–36)
A Canaanite woman from the region of Tyre and Healed her daughter and praised her faith
Sidon (Matt. 15:21–28)
More: The roots of hostility between Jews and Gentiles stretched deep into Israel’s history. See “No
Racial Divisions” at Matt. 15:24.

FIRST PROOFS
Matthew 8:32 22
us out, permit us to go away a into the herd 33 T hen those who kept them fled; and
of swine.” they went away into the city and told every
32 And He said to them, “Go.” So when thing, including what had happened to the
they had come out, they went into the herd demon-possessed men. 34 And behold, the
of swine. And suddenly the whole herd of whole city came out to meet Jesus. And
swine ran violently down the steep place when they saw Him, they begged Him to
into the sea, and perished in the water. depart from their region.
Jesus Forgives and Heals a Paralytic

Angels and Demons
Matt. 8:29 9 ‌ o He got into a boat, crossed over, and
S
came to His own city. 2 T hen behold,
they brought to Him a paralytic lying on a
The Gospels show Jesus’ frequent encounters bed. When Jesus saw their faith, He said to
with demons, such as those that possessed the paralytic, “Son, be of good cheer; your
the Gergesene men, affirming the reality of sins are forgiven you.”
3 And at once some of the scribes
potent spiritual forces that exist beyond the
visible universe. said within themselves, “This Man blas
Scripture teaches that angels are mem- phemes!”
4 But
Jesus, knowing their thoughts,
bers of an order of heavenly messengers said, “Why do you think evil in your
(Heb. 2:7; 2 Pet. 2:11; see also “Angels” 5
hearts? For which is easier, to say, ‘Your
at Rev. 7:1). Unlike God, angels are not sins are forg iven you,’ or to say, ‘Arise and
all-
powerful or all- knowing (Ps. 103:20; walk’? 6But that you may know that the
2 Thess. 1:7). Son of Man has power on earth to forgive
God often sends them to announce good sins”—then He said to the paralytic, “Arise,
news, such as the birth of Jesus (Luke 1:30, take up your bed, and go to your house.”
31). Or they may carry warnings of dan- 7And he arose and departed to his house.
ger, such as Sodom’s looming destruction 8Now when the multitudes saw it, they
(Gen. 18:1—19:29). marveleda and glorified God, who had giv
Angels were involved during the events en such power to men.
surrounding Jesus’ birth, resurrection, and
ascension. They . . . Matthew the Tax Collector
9As J
esus passed on from there, He saw
• Urged Joseph to wed Mary (Matt. 1:20). a man named Matthew sitting at the tax
• Warned Joseph to flee to Egypt with Mary office. And He said to him, “Follow Me.” So
and infant Jesus (2:13). he arose and followed Him.
• Instructed Joseph to bring his family back 10Now it happened, as Jesus sat at the
to Palestine (2:19). table in the house, that behold, many tax
• Foretold to Zacharias the birth of John collectors and sinners came and sat down
the Baptist (Luke 1:11–38). with Him and His disciples. 11And when the
• Announced to shepherds the birth of Pharisees saw it, they said to His disciples,
Christ (2:8–15).
• Strengthened Jesus in the Garden of 8:31 a NU‑Text reads send us. 9:8 a NU‑Text
reads were afraid.
Gethsemane (22:43).
• Rolled back the stone from Jesus’ tomb
(Matt. 28:2). The Power of Forgiveness
• Announced Jesus’ resurrection to women Matt. 9:4– 8
at the empty tomb (Luke 24:4–7, 23; John
20:12).
The crowd that watched Jesus heal a paralyt-
• Promised Jesus’ return after His ascension
ic responded enthusiastically to His dramatic
(Acts 1:9–11).
display of power. But they overlooked His
The frequency of angelic involvement more significant ability to forgive sins, an
in human events seems to have lessened aspect of His authority that deeply troubled
since Pentecost, possibly because of the the scribes.
Holy Spirit’s expanded role in the lives of Jesus urges us to forgive those who wrong
Christians. or hurt us (Matt. 6:14, 15; 18:21–35) —in
Demons are angels who rebelled against moments of pain and anger we discover
God and were cast out of heaven. They seek the difficulty of authentically extending
to undermine God’s righteous purposes in forgiveness. It can feel almost impossible to
the world (1 Pet. 3:19, 20; 2 Pet. 2:4; Jude 6; lay down our hurt and reach out to pardon
see also “Demons” at Luke 11:14). Scripture an offender. But that powerful act releases
gives them a variety of names: “unclean spir- our own hearts from bitterness and frees a
its” (Mark 6:7), “wicked or evil spirits” (Luke wrongdoer from paralyzing guilt. It can even
7:21; Acts 19:12, 13), “spirit of divination” change the course of a person’s life (James
(Acts 16:16), “deceiving spirits” (1 Tim. 4:1), 5:19, 20).
and “spirit of error” (1 John 4:6). We can forgive others only in Jesus’ power.

FIRST PROOFS
23 Matthew 9:25
“Why does your Teacher eat with tax col an old garment; for the patch pulls away
lectors and sinners?” from the garment, and the tear is made
12 W hen Jesus heard that, He said to worse. 17Nor do they put new wine into old
them, “Those who are well have no need of wineskins, or else the wineskins break,
a physician, but those who are sick. 13But the wine is spilled, and the wineskins are
go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mer r uined. But they put new wine into new
cy and not sacrifice.’ a For I did not come wineskins, and both are preserved.”
to call the righteous, but sinners, to repen
tance.” b A Girl Restored to Life and a Woman
Healed
Jesus Is Questioned About Fasting 18 W hile He spoke these things to them,
14 T hen the disciples of John came to behold, a ruler came and worshiped Him,
Him, saying, “Why do we and the Phari saying, “My daughter has just died, but
sees fast often,a but Your disciples do not come and lay Your hand on her and she will
fast?” live.” 19So Jesus arose and followed him,
15And J esus said to them, “Can the and so did His disciples.
friends of the bridegroom mourn as long as 20And suddenly, a woman who had a
the bridegroom is with them? But the days flow of blood for twelve years came from
will come when the bridegroom will be tak behind and touched the hem of His gar
en away from them, and then they will fast. ment. 21For she said to herself, “If only I
16No one puts a piece of unshrunk cloth on
may touch His garment, I shall be made
well.” 22But J esus turned around, and when
Tax Collectors He saw her He said, “Be of good cheer,
daughter; your faith has made you well.”
Matt. 9:10 And the woman was made well from that
hour.
Tax collectors in ancient times were agents 23 W hen Jesus came into the ruler’s
who collected government levies. Some house, and saw the flute players and the
translations incorrectly call them publicans, noisy crowd wailing, 24 He said to them,
who were usually wealthy non-Jewish men “Make room, for the girl is not dead, but
who contracted with the occupying Romans sleeping.” And they ridiculed Him. 25But
to take responsibility for a district’s taxes.
They were often backed by military force. 9:13 a Hosea 6:6 b NU‑Text omits to repentance.
Tax collectors were hired by publicans to 9:14 a NU‑Text brackets often as disputed.
actually collect monies. They were Jews and
usually not wealthy. The Bleeding Woman
Tax collectors gathered several different
taxes. Depending on the type of rule in a Matt. 9:20–22
given Jewish province, Rome levied a land
tax, a poll tax, even a tax for the operation The woman in Matthew 9:20–22 had been
of the temple (Matt. 17:24–27). Taxes from excluded from worship and was an outcast
provinces such as Galilee, which was not un- of society for a dozen years. Jews considered
der an imperial governor, remained in the women ritually unclean during menstrua-
province rather than going to the imperial tion, and a woman who experienced bleed-
treasury at Rome. Perhaps it was these in- ing other than during her menstrual cycle
equities that prompted the Pharisees in the was considered unclean until the bleeding
imperial province of Judea to ask Jesus, “Is it stopped. Anyone who touched a menstru-
lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?” (22:17). ating woman was unclean until evening
Tax collectors often demanded more (Lev. 15:19–27).
than the government required and pocketed By approaching Jesus, the woman broke
the excess—a practice that John the Baptist a rule that held her accountable as an un-
specifically condemned (Luke 3:12, 13). Tax clean person to stay away from others. In her
collectors were also hated because fellow cit- desperation, she reached out and touched
izens saw them as mercenaries working for Jesus. The Lord perceived that power had
their Roman oppressors. They were altogeth- gone out from Him and sought her out. As
er despised by their fellow Jews and were she explained her disease the crowd prob-
often lumped together with other “sinners” ably backed away, not wanting to contami-
(Matt. 9:10, 11; Mark 2:15). nate themselves. But Jesus did not withdraw.
He addressed her with the affectionate term
More: The Jews of Jesus’ day were probably pay- “daughter” and sent her away in peace,
ing no less than 30 or 40 percent of their income healed at last.
on taxes and religious dues. See “Taxes” at Mark When we meet outcasts in the world to-
12:14. Zacchaeus was called the chief tax col- day, do we back away, or do we embrace
lector of Jericho, meaning he may have been a them as fellow members of Christ’s family?
publican. Nevertheless, he responded to Jesus’ How can we respond to their needs with
call. See “Startling Change” at Luke 19:1–10. Christlike love?

FIRST PROOFS
Matthew 9:26 24
when the crowd was put outside, He went saying, “It was never seen like this in Is
in and took her by the hand, and the girl rael!”
arose. 26And the report of this went out into 34 But the Pharisees said, “He casts out
all that land. demons by the ruler of the demons.”
Two Blind Men Healed The Compassion of Jesus

27 W hen Jesus departed from there, two 35 T hen Jesus went about all the cities
blind men followed Him, crying out and and villages, teaching in their synagogues,
saying, “Son of David, have mercy on us!” preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and
28 And when He had come into the healing every sickness and every disease
house, the blind men came to Him. And among the people.a 36But when He saw the
Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I multitudes, He was moved with compas
am able to do this?” sion for them, because they were weary a
They said to Him, “Yes, Lord.” and scattered, like sheep having no shep
29 T hen He touched their eyes, saying, herd. 37 T hen He said to His disciples, “The
“According to your faith let it be to you.” harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers
30And their eyes were opened. And Jesus are few. 38 T herefore pray the Lord of the
sternly warned them, saying, “See that harvest to send out laborers into His har
no one knows it.” 31But when they had de vest.”
parted, they spread the news about Him in
all that country. The Twelve Apostles
A Mute Man Speaks

32As they went out, behold, they brought
10 ‌ nd when He had called His twelve
A
disciples to Him, He gave them power
over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and
to heal all kinds of sickness and all kinds
to Him a man, mute and demon-possessed.
33And when the demon was cast out, the
9:35 a NU‑Text omits among the people.
mute spoke. And the multitudes marveled, 9:36 a NU‑Text and M‑Text read harassed.
Jesus’ Urban Ministry

Matt. 9:35
Some people imagine Jesus spending His en-

N
tire life in tiny towns and on long walks in the Sea of
Galilee
wilderness. After all, He did begin His life in J o r d an R i v e r Dead Sea
Capernaum
a manger surrounded by livestock and shep- Tiberias
Scythopolis Jericho
herds. And He seemed to endlessly wander the Nazareth Sychar Ephraim Bethany
Tyre Cana
countryside telling parables with rural themes Ptolemais
Bethel Bethlehem
such as the sower and the seed, the wheat Samaria Jerusalem
Caesarea
and the weeds, and the lilies of the field. But Beersheba
Joppa
this image of Jesus—and His world—is simply Medi
terra
incorrect. nean
Sea
Gaza
The Palestine of Jesus’ day experienced 0 15 30
rapid urban development. A population of up MILES
to three million people lived in preindustrial

cities and towns around Jerusalem, the hub of 10:1, 8– 16). The early church later spread
the region. Jerusalem itself had a population throughout the Roman empire by establish-
that modern scholars conservatively estimate ing Christian communities in no fewer than
at between fifty- five thousand and ninety forty cities by the close of the first century
thousand. (Josephus, a first- century Jewish (see “Churches Unlock Communities” at Acts
historian, placed the number at three mil- 11:22).
lion; the Talmud claims an incredible twelve Jesus cares about urban communities, and
million). His strategy should prompt all of His followers
Jesus focused His ministry on Palestine’s to ask how we are bringing His message to an
cities (Matt. 9:35; 11:1; Luke 4:43; 13:22), and increasingly urban, multicultural, and plural-
He made at least three visits to Jerusalem. His istic world. His ministry should be a model for
travels brought Him into contact with a wide our engagement with the world.
variety of people. He attracted large numbers
of women, soldiers, religious leaders, the rich, More: Even in ancient times, Canaan was expe-
merchants, tax collectors, Gentiles, prosti- riencing urbanization. See “Following God in the
tutes, beggars, and the poor. City” at Deut. 6:10. For more on the explosive start
Jesus’ strategy became a pattern for His of the early church, see “The Ephesus Approach:
followers to imitate. Jesus sent His disciples How the Gospel Transformed a Community” at
to preach in cities (Matt. 10:5, 11–14; Luke Acts 19:8–41.

FIRST PROOFS
25 Matthew 11:1
of disease. 2Now the names of the twelve Beelzebub,a how much more will they call
apostles are these: first, Simon, who is those of his household! 26 T herefore do not
called Peter, and Andrew his brother; fear them. For there is nothing covered that
James the son of Zebedee, and John his will not be revealed, and hidden that will
brother; 3Philip and Bartholomew; Thom not be known.
as and Matthew the tax collector; James
the son of Alphaeus, and Lebbaeus, whose Jesus Teaches the Fear of God
surname was a Thaddaeus; 4 Simon the 27 “Whatever I tell you in the dark, speak
Cananite,a and Judas Iscariot, who also in the light; and what you hear in the ear,
betrayed Him. preach on the housetops. 28And do not fear
those who kill the body but cannot kill the
Sending Out the Twelve soul. But rather fear Him who is able to de
5 T hese twelve Jesus sent out and com stroy both soul and body in hell. 29Are not
manded them, saying: “Do not go into the two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And
way of the Gentiles, and do not enter a city not one of them falls to the ground apart
of the Samaritans. 6But go rather to the lost from your Father’s will. 30But the very hairs
sheep of the house of Israel. 7And as you go, of your head are all numbered. 31Do not
preach, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is fear therefore; you are of more value than
at hand.’ 8Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, many sparrows.
raise the dead,a cast out demons. Freely
you have received, freely give. 9Provide Confess Christ Before Men
neither gold nor silver nor copper in your 32 “Therefore whoever con fesses Me
money belts, 10nor bag for your journey, before men, him I will also confess before
nor two tunics, nor sandals, nor staffs; for My Father who is in heaven. 33But whoever
a worker is worthy of his food. denies Me before men, him I will also deny
11“Now whatever city or town you enter, before My Father who is in heaven.
inquire who in it is worthy, and stay there
till you go out. 12And when you go into a Christ Brings Division
household, greet it. 13If the household is 34 “Do not think that I came to bring
worthy, let your peace come upon it. But peace on earth. I did not come to bring
if it is not worthy, let your peace return to peace but a sword. 35For I have come to
you. 14 And whoever will not receive you ‘set a man against his father, a daughter
nor hear your words, when you depart from against her mother, and a daughter-in-law
that house or city, shake off the dust from against her mother-in-law’ ; 36and ‘a man’s
your feet. 15Assuredly, I say to you, it will enemies will be those of his own house
be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and hold.’ a 37He who loves father or mother
Gomorrah in the day of judgment than for more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he
that city! who loves son or daughter more than Me is
not worthy of Me. 38And he who does not
Persecutions Are Coming take his cross and follow after Me is not
16 “Behold, I send you out as sheep in the worthy of Me. 39He who finds his life will
midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as ser lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake
pents and harmless as doves. 17But beware will find it.
of men, for they will deliver you up to coun
cils and scourge you in their synagogues. A Cup of Cold Water
18 You will be brought before governors and 40 “He who receives you receives Me,
kings for My sake, as a testimony to them and he who receives Me receives Him who
and to the Gentiles. 19But when they deliver sent Me. 41He who receives a prophet in the
you up, do not worry about how or what name of a prophet shall receive a prophet’s
you should speak. For it will be given to you reward. And he who receives a righteous
in that hour what you should speak; 20for it man in the name of a righteous man shall
is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your receive a righteous man’s reward. 42And
Father who speaks in you. whoever gives one of these little ones only
21“Now brother will deliver up brother a cup of cold water in the name of a disci
to death, and a father his child; and chil ple, assuredly, I say to you, he shall by no
dren will rise up against parents and cause means lose his reward.”
them to be put to death. 22And you will be
hated by all for My name’s sake. But he who John the Baptist Sends Messengers to Jesus
endures to the end will be saved. 23 W hen
they persecute you in this city, flee to an 11 ‌Now it came to pass, when Jesus fin
ished commanding His twelve disci
other. For assuredly, I say to you, you will ples, that He departed from there to teach
not have gone through the cities of Israel and to preach in their cities.
before the Son of Man comes.
24 “A disciple is not above his teach 10:3 a NU‑Text omits Lebbaeus, whose surname
10:4 a NU‑Text reads Cananaean.
er, nor a servant above his master. 25It is was.
10:8 a NU‑Text reads raise the dead, cleanse
enough for a disciple that he be like his the lepers; M‑Text omits raise the dead.
teacher, and a servant like his master. If 10:25 a NU‑Text and M‑Text read Beelzebul.
they have called the master of the house 10:36 a Micah 7:6

FIRST PROOFS
Matthew 11:2 26
2 And when John had heard in prison willing to receive it, he is Elijah who is to
about the works of Christ, he sent two ofa come. 15He who has ears to hear, let him
his disciples 3and said to Him, “Are You the hear!
Coming One, or do we look for another?” 16 “But to what shall I liken this genera
4Jesus answered and said to them, “Go tion? It is like children sitting in the mar
and tell John the things which you hear ketplaces and calling to their companions,
and see: 5 The blind see and the lame walk; 17and saying:
the lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear; ‘We played the flute for you,
the dead are raised up and the poor have the And you did not dance;
gospel preached to them. 6And blessed is We mourned to you,
he who is not offended because of Me.” And you did not lament.’
7As they departed, J esus began to say
18For John came neither eating nor drink
to the multitudes concerning John: “What
did you go out into the wilderness to see? A ing, and they say, ‘He has a demon.’ 19 T he
reed shaken by the wind? 8But what did you Son of Man came eating and drinking, and
go out to see? A man clothed in soft gar they say, ‘Look, a glutton and a winebibber,
ments? Indeed, those who wear soft cloth- a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ But
ing are in kings’ houses. 9But what did you wisdom is justified by her children.” a
go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I say to you,
and more than a prophet. 10For this is he of Woe to the Impenitent Cities
whom it is written: 20 T hen He began to rebuke the cities in
which most of His mighty works had been
‘Behold, I send My messenger before done, because they did not repent: 21“Woe
Your face, to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida!
Who will prepare Your way before For if the mighty works which were done in
You.’ a you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they
11“Assuredly, I say to you, among those would have repented long ago in sackcloth
born of women there has not risen one and ashes. 22But I say to you, it will be more
greater than John the Baptist; but he who tolerable for Tyre and Sidon in the day of
is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater judgment than for you. 23And you, Caper
than he. 12And from the days of John the naum, who are exalted to heaven, will bea
Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven brought down to Hades; for if the mighty
suffers violence, and the violent take it by works which were done in you had been
force. 13For all the prophets and the law done in Sodom, it would have remained
prophesied until John. 14 And if you are until this day. 24But I say to you that it shall
be more tolerable for the land of Sodom in
the day of judgment than for you.”
Evidence of God
Matt. 11:2– 6 Jesus Gives True Rest
25At that time J
esus answered and said,
When John the Baptist wanted reassurance “I thank You, Father, Lord of heaven and
that Jesus was all that He claimed to be, Jesus earth, that You have hidden these things
replied with a list of things He had done that from the wise and prudent and have re
revealed God’s presence, power, and love. vealed them to babes. 26Even so, Father,
for so it seemed good in Your sight. 27All
The most forceful evidence was His work things have been delivered to Me by My
among the poor and broken. Father, and no one knows the Son except
People all around us watch to see wheth- the Father. Nor does anyone know the Fa
er Jesus is still alive among His people. Like ther except the Son, and the one to whom
John, they ask whether those of us who claim the Son wills to reveal Him. 28Come to Me,
to follow Christ truly have insight into who all you who labor and are heavy laden, and
God is—or whether they should look some- I will give you rest. 29 Take My yoke upon
where else. They especially pay attention to you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and
our approach to the world’s suffering people, lowly in heart, and you will find rest for
whether nearby or far away. Onlookers want your souls. 30For My yoke is easy and My
to know if we care about our neighbors’ ma- burden is light.”
terial needs as well as their spiritual needs.
They want to see unmistakable evidence of Jesus Is Lord of the Sabbath
Christ working within us to spread His love in
every way possible. 12 ‌ t that time J esus went through the
A
grainfields on the Sabbath. And His
disciples were hungry, and began to pluck
More: Scripture has much to say about our re- heads of grain and to eat. 2And when the
sponsibilities to the poor and needy. See “I Have Pharisees saw it, they said to Him, “Look,
Not Coveted” at Acts 20:33–38; and “Christ Be- Your disciples are doing what is not lawful
came Poor” at 2 Cor. 8:8, 9. Mother Teresa’s and to do on the Sabbath!”
Francis of Assisi’s work for the poor has made 11:2 a NU‑Text reads by for two of.
them some of the most venerated Christians in 11:10 a Malachi 3:1 11:19 a NU‑Text reads
history. works. 11:23 a NU‑Text reads will you be
exalted to heaven? No, you will be.

FIRST PROOFS
27 Matthew 12:37
3But He said to them, “Have you not 20 A bruised reed He will not break,
read what David did when he was hungry, And smoking flax He will not
he and those who were with him: 4how he quench,
entered the house of God and ate the show Till He sends forth justice to victory;
bread which was not lawful for him to eat, 21 And in His name Gentiles will
nor for those who were with him, but only trust.” a
for the priests? 5Or have you not read in
the law that on the Sabbath the priests in A House Divided Cannot Stand
the temple profane the Sabbath, and are 22 T hen one was brought to Him who
blameless? 6 Yet I say to you that in this was demon-possessed, blind and mute; and
place there is One greater than the temple. He healed him, so that the blind anda mute
7But if you had known what this means, ‘I
man both spoke and saw. 23And all the mul
desire mercy and not sacrifice,’ a you would titudes were amazed and said, “Could this
not have condemned the guiltless. 8For the be the Son of David?”
Son of Man is Lord evena of the Sabbath.” 24 Now when the Pharisees heard it they
said, “This fellow does not cast out demons
Healing on the Sabbath except by Beelzebub,a the ruler of the de
9Now when He had departed from there,
mons.”
He went into their synagogue. 10And be 25But Jesus knew their thoughts, and
hold, there was a man who had a withered said to them: “Every kingdom divided
hand. And they asked Him, saying, “Is it against itself is brought to desolation, and
lawful to heal on the Sabbath?”—that they every city or house divided against itself
might accuse Him. will not stand. 26If Satan casts out Satan,
11 T hen He said to them, “What man is
he is divided against himself. How then
there among you who has one sheep, and will his kingdom stand? 27And if I cast out
if it falls into a pit on the Sabbath, will not demons by Beelzebub, by whom do your
lay hold of it and lift it out? 12Of how much sons cast them out? Therefore they shall
more value then is a man than a sheep? be your judges. 28But if I cast out demons
Therefore it is lawful to do good on the Sab by the Spirit of God, surely the kingdom
bath.” 13 T hen He said to the man, “Stretch of God has come upon you. 29 Or how can
out your hand.” And he stretched it out, one enter a strong man’s house and plunder
and it was restored as whole as the other. his goods, unless he first binds the strong
14 T hen the Pharisees went out and plotted
man? And then he will plunder his house.
against Him, how they might destroy Him. 30He who is not with Me is against Me, and
he who does not gather with Me scatters
Behold, My Servant abroad.
15But when Jesus knew it, He withdrew
a
from there. And great multitudes fol The Unpardonable Sin
lowed Him, and He healed them all. 16 Yet 31“Therefore I say to you, every sin and
He warned them not to make Him known,
17 that it might be fulfilled which was spo blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the
ken by Isaiah the prophet, saying: blasphemy against the Spirit will not be
forgiven men. 32Anyone who speaks a word
18 “Behold! My Servant whom I have against the Son of Man, it will be forgiven
chosen, him; but whoever speaks against the Holy
My Beloved in whom My soul is well Spirit, it will not be forgiven him, either in
pleased! this age or in the age to come.
I will put My Spirit upon Him,
And He will declare justice to the A Tree Known by Its Fruit
Gentiles. 33 “Either make the tree good and its
19 He will not quarrel nor cry out,
fruit good, or else make the tree bad and
Nor will anyone hear His voice in the its fruit bad; for a tree is known by its fruit.
streets. 34 Brood of vipers! How can you, being evil,
speak good things? For out of the abun
Political Intrigue dance of the heart the mouth speaks. 35A
good man out of the good treasure of his
Matt. 12:14 hearta brings forth good things, and an evil
man out of the evil treasure brings forth
The Pharisees feared Jesus as much as they evil things. 36But I say to you that for every
hated Him. They were concerned that His idle word men may speak, they will give
popularity might draw additional Roman account of it in the day of judgment. 37For
troops to the area and end what little inde- by your words you will be justified, and by
pendence the nation had. So they plotted to your words you will be condemned.”
destroy Him. The mastermind of their plans
was Caiaphas the high priest, a Sadducee 12:7 a Hosea 6:6 12:8 a NU‑Text and M‑
Text omit even. 12:15 a NU‑Text brackets
who was equally opposed to Jesus. Learn multitudes as disputed. 12:21 a Isaiah 42:1–4
more in “The Religious Power Broker” at 12:22 a NU‑Text omits blind and. 12:24 a NU‑
Matthew 26:3–5. Text and M‑Text read Beelzebul. 12:35 a NU‑
Text and M‑Text omit of his heart.

FIRST PROOFS
Matthew 12:38 28
The Scribes and Pharisees Ask for a Sign are My brothers?” 49And He stretched out
38 T hen some of the scribes and Phari His hand toward His disciples and said,
sees answered, saying, “Teacher, we want “Here are My mother and My brothers! 50For
to see a sign from You.” whoever does the will of My Father in heav
39But He answered and said to them, en is My brother and sister and mother.”
“An evil and adulterous generation seeks
after a sign, and no sign will be given to it The Parable of the Sower
except the sign of the prophet Jonah. 40For
as Jonah was three days and three nights in
the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of
13 ‌ n the same day Jesus went out of the
O
house and sat by the sea. 2And great
multitudes were gathered together to Him,
Man be three days and three nights in the so that He got into a boat and sat; and the
heart of the earth. 41 T he men of Nineveh whole multitude stood on the shore.
will rise up in the judgment with this gener 3 T hen He spoke many things to them
ation and condemn it, because they repent in parables, saying: “Behold, a sower went
ed at the preaching of Jonah; and indeed a out to sow. 4 And as he sowed, some seed
greater than Jonah is here. 42 T he queen of fell by the wayside; and the birds came and
the South will rise up in the judgment with devoured them. 5Some fell on stony places,
this generation and condemn it, for she where they did not have much earth; and
came from the ends of the earth to hear the they immediately sprang up because they
wisdom of Solomon; and indeed a greater had no depth of earth. 6But when the sun
than Solomon is here. was up they were scorched, and because
they had no root they withered away. 7And
An Unclean Spirit Returns some fell among thorns, and the thorns
43 “When an unclean spirit goes out of sprang up and choked them. 8But others fell
a man, he goes through dry places, seek on good ground and yielded a crop: some a
ing rest, and finds none. 44 T hen he says, hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. 9He
‘I will return to my house from which I who has ears to hear, let him hear!”
came.’ And when he comes, he finds it
empty, swept, and put in order. 45 T hen he The Purpose of Parables
goes and takes with him seven other spirits 10And the disciples came and said to
more wicked than himself, and they enter Him, “Why do You speak to them in par
and dwell there; and the last state of that ables?”
man is worse than the first. So shall it also 11He answered and said to them, “Be
be with this wicked generation.” cause it has been given to you to know the
mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but
Jesus’ Mother and Brothers Send for Him to them it has not been given. 12For who
46 W hile He was still talking to the mul ever has, to him more will be given, and he
titudes, behold, His mother and brothers will have abundance; but whoever does not
stood outside, seeking to speak with Him. have, even what he has will be taken away
47 T hen one said to Him, “Look, Your moth from him. 13 T herefore I speak to them in
er and Your brothers are standing outside, parables, because seeing they do not see,
seeking to speak with You.” and hearing they do not hear, nor do they
48But He answered and said to the one understand. 14 And in them the prophecy of
who told Him, “Who is My mother and who Isaiah is fulfilled, which says:
The Unpardonable Sin

Matt. 12:31, 32
Many people wonder and worry if it is possible to commit a sin so heinous that God cannot or
will not forgive it. Scripture says that this is not possible—and that it is.
The blood that Jesus Christ shed on the the power of the Holy Spirit (Matt. 12:28),
cross paid for all of the world’s sin (John 1:29; His enemies claimed that He was an agent of
Rom. 5:12–21; 8:3), and there is no wrongdo- Satan (12:24, where Satan is called Beelzebub).
ing that God has not overcome through Christ. The accusation confirmed that these lead-
So no one ever has to be afraid of going be- ers had rejected Jesus. It also slandered the
yond the reach of God’s grace or restorative Holy Spirit and revealed that their moral na-
power. No matter what our sins may be, God ture had become so perverted that they were
will forgive them if we come to Him in repen- beyond any hope of repentance and faith—
tance (Acts 2:38; 1 John 1:9). and therefore beyond forgiveness.
However, it is possible to put ourselves be- There is no “unpardonable sin” (12:31) for
yond the reach of God’s grace by persisting in those who cry out like the tax collector in Jesus’
rebellion and resisting His call to repentance. parable, “God, be merciful to me a sinner!”
That was the sin of the Pharisees and other (Luke 18:13). But there is no help for those
Jewish leaders (compare Acts 7:51, 52). When who count on their own self-righteousness, re-
Jesus healed a demon-possessed man through ject Christ, and slander His Holy Spirit.

FIRST PROOFS
29 Matthew 13:23
‘Hearing you will hear and shall not sower: 19 W hen anyone hears the word of
understand, the kingdom, and does not understand it,
And seeing you will see and not then the wicked one comes and snatches
perceive; away what was sown in his heart. This is
15 For the hearts of this people have he who received seed by the wayside. 20But
grown dull. he who received the seed on stony places,
Their ears are hard of hearing, this is he who hears the word and imme
And their eyes they have closed, diately receives it with joy; 21yet he has
Lest they should see with their eyes no root in himself, but endures only for a
and hear with their ears, while. For when tribulation or persecution
Lest they should understand with their arises because of the word, immediately
hearts and turn, he stumbles. 22Now he who received seed
So that I shoulda heal them.’ b among the thorns is he who hears the word,
16 But blessed are your eyes for they see, and the cares of this world and the deceit
and your ears for they hear; 17for assuredly, fulness of riches choke
23
the word, and he
I say to you that many prophets and righ becomes unfruitful. But he who received
teous men desired to see what you see, and seed on the good ground is he who hears
did not see it, and to hear what you hear, the word and understands it, who indeed
and did not hear it. bears fruit and produces: some a hundred
fold, some sixty, some thirty.”
The Parable of the Sower Explained 13:15 a NU‑Text and M‑Text read
18 “Therefore hear the parable of the would. b Isaiah 6:9, 10
Workplace Analogies
Matt. 13:1
Jesus captivated listeners by putting spiritual truths into everyday terms they could understand.
He probably spent most of His life working in His family’s carpentry business. Although we know
little about His youth from adolescence until the start of His public ministry around age thirty,
the Bible tells us that His father was a carpenter (Matt. 13:55) and that Jesus also practiced the
trade (Mark 6:3). Carpenters worked not only with wood but also with metal and stone to pro-
duce household furnishings and farm implements.
Jesus may have continued His occupation how the kingdom quietly yet effectively
even after He began to travel and teach. expands to accomplish powerful results.
Rabbis of the day provided for themselves by 5. The parable of the hidden treasure
spending anywhere from one- third to one- (13:44) says that the kingdom is the most
half of their time working, usually with their important thing anyone can possess.
hands. Many of Jesus’ opponents were also 6. The parable of the pearl of great price
religious teachers, and while they attacked (13:45, 46) also declares that the kingdom
Jesus on several fronts, they never accused is worth sacrificing everything to possess.
Him of laziness. He was known to them as a 7. The parable of the dragnet (13:47–50)
carpenter. warns that those who accept the kingdom
That reputation passed on to the early will be separated from those who reject it.
church. One writer described Jesus as “work- 8. The parable of the householder (13:51, 52)
ing as a carpenter when among men, making calls those who understand the kingdom
ploughs and yokes, by which He taught the to share their insight with others.
symbols of righteousness and an active life.”
Jesus’ stories connected spiritual truth with
Jesus’ hands-on background stands out in His
agriculture (sowing, harvesting, growing), the
parables (brief scenes or stories that illustrated
food industry (baking, fishing), real estate
moral principles and explained the realities of
(land purchasing, home ownership), and retail
His kingdom). Matthew 13 collects eight of His
(the sale of pearls). His images and language
workplace analogies that explain His kingdom:
brought His message to life for ordinary peo-
1. The parable of the sower (13:1–23) ple. He also demonstrated that God takes an
evaluates the openness of people who interest in the workplace and desires us to
hear about the kingdom. serve Him wherever we live and work.
2. The parable of the wheat and the tares
(weeds) (13:24–30) warns that people who More: The prophets Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Zecha-
pretend to be part of the kingdom cannot riah also told parables. See “The Parables of Jere-
fool God. miah” at Jer. 18:1–10; “The Parables of Ezekiel” at
3. The parable of the mustard seed (13:31, Ezek. 15:1–8; and “The Parables of Zechariah” at
32) promises that the kingdom will Zech. 5:1–4. Like Jesus, the apostle Paul support-
become a force to be reckoned with. ed himself by means of a secular occupation. See
4. The parable of the leaven (13:33) describes “Paul’s Tentmaking” at Acts 18:1–3.

FIRST PROOFS
Matthew 13:24 30
The Parable of the Wheat and the Tares
Treasures Old and New 24 Another parable He put forth to them,
Matt. 13:52 saying: “The kingdom of heaven is like a
man who sowed good seed in his field;
25but while men slept, his enemy came and
Christian truth is inexhaustible. No matter
how long we have followed Jesus or how sowed tares among the wheat and went his
much theology we master, we can never way. 26But when the grain had sprouted
reach the end of what God reveals in Christ and produced a crop, then the tares also
appeared. 27So the servants of the owner
and in the Bible—a fact that Jesus addressed came and said to him, ‘Sir, did you not sow
in His parable of the householder. good seed in your field? How then does it
Understanding this parable starts with have tares?’ 28He said to them, ‘An enemy
the question Jesus asked His followers: has done this.’ The servants said to him,
“Have you understood all these things?” ‘Do you want us then to go and gather them
(Matt. 13:51). “These things” refers to the up?’ 29But he said, ‘No, lest while you gath
series of kingdom parables that He had just er up the tares you also uproot the wheat
told (13:1–50). The disciples answered yes. with them. 30Let both grow together until
They assumed that they had absorbed every- the harvest, and at the time of harvest I will
thing Jesus had to say. But these men could say to the reapers, “First gather together
not possibly have grasped all of the practical the tares and bind them in bundles to burn
applications of these stories, much less the them, but gather the wheat into my barn.” ’ ”
implications of an idea as complex as the
kingdom of God. Scholars still debate the full The Parable of the Mustard Seed
31Another parable He put forth to them,
meaning of what Jesus said (see “The King
Declares His Kingdom” at Matt. 4:17). saying: “The kingdom of heaven is like a
Jesus was aware that the disciples thought mustard seed, which a man took and sowed
they had more insight than they actually pos- in his field, 32which indeed is the least of all
sessed, and His parable of the householder the seeds; but when it is grown it is great
poked at their perspective. A householder— er than the herbs and becomes a tree, so
the head or master of a home— typically that the birds of the air come and nest in
its branches.”
brings out family treasures to entertain or
impress a visitor. He might unveil a family The Parable of the Leaven
heirloom or a recent purchase. Jesus said His 33 Another parable He spoke to them:
disciples were like householders. They would “The kingdom of heaven is like leaven,
tell people about “old treasures”—the basic which a woman took and hid in three mea
tenets of the gospel—and they would tell suresa of meal till it was all leavened.”
people about “new treasures”—applications
of His teaching to new situations. Prophecy and the Parables
His disciples would be like scribes “in- 34 All these things J esus spoke to the
structed concerning the kingdom of heaven” multitude in parables; and without a para
(13:52). Scribes were highly educated stu- ble He did not speak to them, 35that it might
dents of Scripture who worked as copyists, be fulfilled which was spoken by the proph
editors, and teachers. They occupied a pres- et, saying:
tigious position, as only ordained teachers
were allowed to transmit and create religious “I will open My mouth in parables;
I will utter things kept secret from the
tradition. And just as Jewish scribes taught foundation of the world.” a
truths that had been known for centuries as
well as fresh insights that applied God’s Word The Parable of the Tares Explained
to new situations, the disciples were storing 36 T hen Jesus sent the multitude away
up Jesus’ teaching and would one day repeat and went into the house. And His disciples
and apply His words for the benefit of others. came to Him, saying, “Explain to us the
They would pass down “things new and old” parable of the tares of the field.”
(13:52). 37He answered and said to them: “He
The New Testament contains the written who sows the good seed is the Son of Man.
record of the disciples’ lifetime of discover- 38 T he field is the world, the good seeds are
ies. Like those early followers, we still uncov- the sons of the kingdom, but the tares are
er treasures both old and new, looking back the sons of the wicked one. 39 T he enemy
to fundamental truths that never change who sowed them is the devil, the harvest is
and discerning ways to apply biblical princi- the end of the age, and the reapers are the
ples to new issues. angels. 40 T herefore as the tares are gath
ered and burned in the fire, so it will be at
More: Becoming a scribe required constant the end of this age. 41 T he Son of Man will
study, often beginning at age 14 and continuing send out His angels, and they will gather
to the age of 40. out of His kingdom all things that offend,
13:33 a Greek sata, approximately two pecks in
all 13:35 a Psalm 78:2

FIRST PROOFS
31 Matthew 14:15
and those who practice lawlessness, 42and brother Philip’s wife. 4 Because John had
will cast them into the furnace of fire. said to him, “It is not lawful for you to have
There will be wailing and gnashing of her.” 5And although he wanted to put him
teeth. 43 T hen the righteous will shine forth to death, he feared the multitude, because
as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. they counted him as a prophet.
He who has ears to hear, let him hear! 6But when Herod’s birthday was cele
brated, the daughter of Herodias danced
The Parable of the Hidden Treasure before them and pleased Herod. 7 T herefore
44“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like he promised with an oath to give her what
treasure hidden in a field, which a man ever she might ask.
8 So she, having been prompted by her
found and hid; and for joy over it he goes
and sells all that he has and buys that field. mother, said, “Give me John the Baptist’s
head here on a platter.”
9And the king was sorry; nevertheless,
The Parable of the Pearl of Great Price
45 “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like because of the oaths and because of those
a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, 46who, who sat with him, he commanded it to be
10
when he had found one pearl of great price, given to her. So he11sent and had John
went and sold all that he had and bought it. beheaded in prison. And his head was
brought on a platter and given to the girl,
The Parable of the Dragnet and she brought it to her mother. 12 T hen his
47 “Again, the kingdom of heaven is disciples came and took away the body and
buried it, and went and told Jesus.
like a dragnet that was cast into the sea
48
and gathered some of every kind, which, Feeding the Five Thousand
when it was full, they drew to shore; and 13 W hen J
they sat down and gathered the good into esus heard it, He departed
vessels, but threw the bad away. So it49 from there by boat to a deserted place by
will be at the end of the age. The angels Himself. But when the multitudes heard
will come forth, separate the wicked from it, they 14
followed Him on foot from the cit
among the just, 50 and cast them into the ies. And when Jesus went out He saw a
furnace of fire. There will be wailing and great multitude; and He was moved with
gnashing of teeth.” compassion for them, and healed their sick.
15 W hen it was evening, His disciples came
51Jesus said to them,a “Have you under
stood all these things?” to Him, saying, “This is a deserted place,
They said to Him, “Yes, Lord.” b and the hour is already late. Send the mul
52 T hen He said to them, “Therefore
13:51 a NU‑Text omits Jesus said to
every scribe instructed concerninga the them. b NU‑Text omits Lord. 13:52 a Or for
kingdom of heaven is like a householder 13:55 a NU‑Text reads Joseph.
who brings out of his treasure things new
and old.”
Hateful Herodias
Jesus Rejected at Nazareth Matt. 14:3
53Now it came to pass, when Jesus had
finished these parables, that He departed Herodias enjoyed her privilege and position
from there. 54 W hen He had come to His as the wife of Palestine’s appointed ruler. But
own country, He taught them in their syn she had no control over the outspoken John
agogue, so that they were astonished and the Baptist, who had publicly condemned
said, “Where did this Man get this wisdom Herodias’s marriage to Herod Antipas. A
and these mighty works? 55Is this not the granddaughter of Herod the Great, Herodias
carpenter’s son? Is not His mother called had first married her father’s brother, Herod
Mary? And His brothers James, Joses, a
Simon, and Judas? 56And His sisters, are Philip I. Then she left Philip to marry his half
they not all with us? Where then did this brother Herod Antipas, who divorced his
Man get all these things?” 57So they were wife to marry Herodias.
offended at Him. When John denounced their immoral be-
But J esus said to them, “A prophet is not havior, Herodias was determined to silence
without honor except in his own country the troublesome prophet. She persuaded
and in his own house.” 58Now He did not Herod to have John arrested and imprisoned,
do many mighty works there because of but she could not bring about an execution
their unbelief. until Herod’s promise to give Herodias’s
daughter Salome “whatever she might ask”
John the Baptist Beheaded (Matt. 14:7). Not many people remember
14 ‌ t that time Herod the tetrarch heard

A
the report about J esus 2and said to
his servants, “This is John the Baptist; he
Herodias’s name, but her evil cunning and
violent revenge are far from forgotten two
thousand years after she walked the earth.
is risen from the dead, and therefore these Whether or not your name is remem-
powers are at work in him.” 3For Herod had bered, your actions will teach. Perhaps for
laid hold of John and bound him, and put generations. What are you teaching?
him in prison for the sake of Herodias, his

FIRST PROOFS
Matthew 14:16 32
titudes away, that they may go into the vil Jesus Walks on the Sea
lages and buy themselves food.” 22Immediately Jesus made His disciples
16But Jesus said to them, “They do not
get into the boat and go before Him to the
need to go away. You give them something other side, while He sent the multitudes
to eat.” away. 23And when He had sent the multi
17And they said to Him, “We have here
tudes away, He went up on the mountain by
only five loaves and two fish.” Himself to pray. Now when evening came,
18 He said, “Bring them here to Me.”
He was alone there. 24 But the boat was
19 T hen He commanded the multitudes to
now in the middle of the sea,a tossed by the
sit down on the grass. And He took the five waves, for the wind was contrary.
loaves and the two fish, and looking up to 25Now in the fourth watch of the night
heaven, He blessed and broke and gave the Jesus went to them, walking on the sea.
loaves to the disciples; and the disciples 26 And when the disciples saw Him walk
gave to the multitudes. 20So they all ate and ing on the sea, they were troubled, saying,
were filled, and they took up twelve baskets “It is a ghost!” And they cried out for fear.
full of the fragments that remained. 21Now 27But immediately Jesus spoke to them,
those who had eaten were about five thou saying, “Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be
sand men, besides women and children. afraid.”
28 And Peter answered Him and said,
“Lord, if it is You, command me to come to
Public Faith You on the water.”
Matt. 14:13, 14 29So He said, “Come.” And when Peter
had come down out of the boat, he walked
Knowing that God seeks a relationship with on the water to go to J esus. 30But when he
every individual on earth, many Christians saw that the wind was boisterous,a he was
enthusiastically pursue the private side of afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out,
spirituality, building habits of prayer, private saying, “Lord, save me!”
31And immediately J esus stretched out
Bible reading, self-examination and confes-
sion, personal holiness, acts of charity, and His hand and caught him, and said to him,
“O you of little faith, why did you doubt?”
more. But what about the public side of 32And when they got into the boat, the wind
faith? For example: ceased.
33 T hen those who were in the boat came
• How do we live out our faith in public
arenas such as work, school, and politics? anda worshiped Him, saying, “Truly You
• How strategic and energetic is our are the Son of God.”
collective witness as God’s people to a
watching world? Many Touch Him and Are Made Well
34 W hen they had crossed over, they
• How do we influence our society as a
whole—its ideologies, needs, and values? came to the land ofa Gennesaret. 35And
when the men of that place recognized
These far- reaching questions have no Him, they sent out into all that surrounding
quick answers. But the public side of Jesus’ region, brought to Him all who were sick,
36 and begged Him that they might only
ministry shows that we cannot ignore them.
Many in His day withdrew from society to touch the hem of His garment. And as many
perfect a private spirituality (such as the as touched it were made perfectly well.
Essenes; see “Political Parties of Jesus’ Day”
at Matt. 16:1). But Jesus actively engaged Defilement Comes from Within
His culture. He participated in its rituals.
He focused on its cities (see “Jesus’ Urban 15 ‌ hen the scribes and Pharisees who
T
were from Jerusalem came to J esus,
saying, 2“Why do Your disciples transgress
Ministry” at Matt. 9:35). He interacted with
the tradition of the elders? For they do not
its leaders. He welcomed its crowds. He par- wash their hands when they eat bread.”
ticularly reached out to its poor, both the 3He answered and said to them, “Why
financially poor and the “poor in spirit” (5:3). do you also transgress the commandment
Jesus rules not only our private lives but of God because of your tradition? 4For God
also our public lives. As His followers we commanded, saying, ‘Honor your father
are more than private individuals. We have and your mother’; a and, ‘He who curses
been made part of a “royal priesthood” and father or mother, let him be put to death.’ b
a “holy nation.” We were once “not a peo- 5But you say, ‘Whoever says to his father or
ple,” but now we are “the people of God” mother, “Whatever profit you might have
(1 Pet. 2:9, 10). We must visibly act on our received from me is a gift to God”— 6 then
faith as a united community in order to pow- he need not honor his father or mother.’ a
erfully impact our world.
14:24 a NU‑Text reads many furlongs away
from the land. 14:30 a NU‑Text brackets that
More: Jesus used two metaphors to describe a and boisterous as disputed. 14:33 a NU‑Text
believer’s public life, particularly in terms of omits came and. 14:34 a NU‑Text reads came
work and participation in the community. See to land at. 15:4 a Exodus 20:12; Deuteronomy
“Salt and Light” at Matt. 5:13–16. 5:16 b Exodus 21:17 15:6 a NU‑Text omits or
mother.

FIRST PROOFS
33 Matthew 15:24
Thus you have made the commandmentb of without understanding? 17Do you not yet
God of no effect by your tradition. 7Hypo understand that whatever enters the mouth
crites! Well did Isaiah prophesy about you, goes into the stomach and is eliminated?
saying: 18But those things which proceed out of the
8 ‘These people draw near to Me with

mouth come from the heart, and they defile
a man. 19For out of the heart proceed evil
their mouth, thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications,
a
And honor Me with their lips, thefts, false witness, blasphemies. 20 T hese
But their heart is far from Me. are the things which defile a man, but to
9 And in vain they worship Me,
eat with unwashed hands does not defile
Teaching as doctrines the a man.”
commandments of men.’ ” a
10 W hen He had called the multitude to A Gentile Shows Her Faith
21 T hen Jesus went out from there and
Himself, He said to them, “Hear and under
stand: 11Not what goes into the mouth departed to the region of Tyre and Sidon.
22 And behold, a woman of Canaan came
defiles a man; but what comes out of the
mouth, this defiles a man.” from that region and cried out to Him,
12 T hen His disciples came and said to saying, “Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son
Him, “Do You know that the Pharisees of David! My daughter is severely demon-
were offended when they heard this say possessed.”
23But He answered her not a word.
ing?”
13But He answered and said, “Every And His disciples came and urged Him,
plant which My heavenly Father has not saying, “Send her away, for she cries out
after us.”
planted will be uprooted. 14Let them alone. 24 But He answered and said, “I was not
They are blind leaders of the blind. And if sent except to the lost sheep of the house
the blind leads the blind, both will fall into of Israel.”
a ditch.”
15 T hen Peter answered and said to Him,
5:6 b NU‑Text reads word. 15:8 a NU‑Text
1
“Explain this parable to us.” omits draw near to Me with their mouth, And.
16 So Jesus said, “Are you also still 15:9 a Isaiah 29:13
Evaluating Tradition
Matt. 15:1–3
Jesus rebuked the scribes and Pharisees for allowing their traditions to supersede God’s clear
commands. He specifically called out the stringent rabbinical rules regarding ritual washings
for preparing and serving food.
Today we do not follow the rigid pronounce- • Why does this tradition exist? Why is it
ments of a priestly class. Yet there are countless maintained? Are there solid reasons to
traditions and expectations—many unspoken— continue it—or to end it?
that govern our behavior, and sometimes cause • Who benefits and who suffers from
us to squabble. As Christians, we are called at maintaining this tradition? Who might be
times to uphold tradition and at other times to helped or hurt by a change?
create new patterns of life. There are no simple
formulas to guide our decisions, but we can More: Tradition can preserve values and beliefs
start by reflecting on questions like these: for future generations. See “Remembering God’s
• What values and principles does a Action” at Ex. 12:26, 27.
particular tradition seek to embody? How
do those align with what Christ wants?
No Racial Division
Matt. 15:24
The roots of social division stretched far back into Israel’s history, when a remnant of Jews had
come home from captivity in Babylon to rebuild Jerusalem around 458 b.c. Ezra, their leader,
commanded them to purify themselves from all pagan influences, particularly marriages to
foreign-born wives (Ezra 10:2–4). Later, after centuries of Greek and Roman domination, Jews
had developed a hatred for Gentiles so strong that it led them to avoid any and all contact with
foreigners if at all possible. According to Tacitus, a Roman historian, “they regard the rest of
mankind with all the hatred of enemies” (Histories, 5.5).

FIRST PROOFS
Matthew 15:25 34
25 T hen she came and worshiped Him, they all ate and were filled, and they took
saying, “Lord, help me!” up seven large baskets full of the fragments
26But He answered and said, “It is not that were left. 38Now those who ate were
good to take the children’s bread and throw four thousand men, besides women and
it to the little dogs.” children. 39And He sent away the multi
27And she said, “Yes, Lord, yet even the tude, got into the boat, and came to the re
little dogs eat the crumbs which fall from gion of Magdala.a
their masters’ table.”
28 T hen J
esus answered and said to her, The Pharisees and Sadducees Seek a Sign
“O woman, great is your faith! Let it be to
you as you desire.” And her daughter was
healed from that very hour.
16 ‌ hen the Pharisees and Sadducees
T
came, and testing Him asked that He
would show them a sign from heaven. 2He
answered and said to them, “When it is eve
Jesus Heals Great Multitudes ning you say, ‘It will be fair weather, for the
29
Jesus departed from there, skirt sky is red’; 3and in the morning, ‘It will be
ed the Sea of Galilee, and went up on the foul weather today, for the sky is red and
mountain and sat down there. 30 T hen great threatening.’ Hypocrites!a You know how
multitudes came to Him, having with them to discern the face of the sky, but you can
the lame, blind, mute, maimed, and many not discern the signs of the times. 4 A wick
others; and they laid them down at Jesus’ ed and adulterous generation seeks after a
feet, and He healed them. 31So the multi sign, and no sign shall be given to it except
tude marveled when they saw the mute the sign of the propheta Jonah.” And He left
speaking, the maimed made whole, the them and departed.
lame walking, and the blind seeing; and
they glorified the God of Israel. The Leaven of the Pharisees and
Feeding the Four Thousand Sadducees
5Now when His disciples had come to
32Now Jesus called His disciples to Him-
self and said, “I have compassion on the the other side, they had forgotten to take
multitude, because they have now contin bread. 6 T hen Jesus said to them, “Take
ued with Me three days and have nothing heed and beware of the leaven of the Phar
to eat. And I do not want to send them away isees and the Sadducees.”
7And they reasoned among themselves,
hungry, lest they faint on the way.”
33 T hen His disciples said to Him, saying, “It is because we have taken no
“Where could we get enough bread in the bread.”
8But J esus, being aware of it, said to
wilderness to fill such a great multitude?”
34 Jesus said to them, “How many loaves them, “O you of little faith, why do you
do you have?” reason among yourselves because you
And they said, “Seven, and a few little have brought no bread?a 9Do you not yet
fish.” understand, or remember the five loaves of
35 So He commanded the multitude to the five thousand and how many baskets
sit down on the ground. 36And He took the 15:39 a NU‑Text reads Magadan. 16:3 a NU‑
seven loaves and the fish and gave thanks, Text omits Hypocrites. 16:4 a NU‑Text omits
broke them and gave them to His disciples; the prophet. 16:8 a NU‑Text reads you have
and the disciples gave to the multitude. 37So no bread.

The Jews who lived in Jesus’ day divided the alike, Jesus shattered the established systems
world into two types of people—themselves of His day and shocked His fellow Jews.
and everyone else. Jews regarded Gentiles as Racism and ethnic hatred have no place
morally unclean and spiritually lost. Jews were in God’s plan. They originate in sinful human
God’s people, and they saw all others as out- hearts, and Jesus repudiated the evil of bigotry
side His family. Peter expressed this attitude wherever He found it. There is no doubt God
when the Lord sent him to meet the Roman will continue to tear down ethnic and racial
centurion Cornelius: “You know how unlawful walls in the modern world. And as His follow-
it is for a Jewish man to keep company with or ers, it is our job to lead the way in showing
go to one of another nation,” Peter said (Acts equal acceptance and love for all peoples of
10:28). the world.
Matthew’s Gospel shows the tension be-
tween the divisions between Jew and Gentile. More: While Matthew’s Gospel highlights the
Jesus was the long-awaited Christ of the Jews Jewish roots of Jesus, it also reveals Him as the
(Matt 15:24), the fulfillment of Old Testament Messiah for the whole world. See “A Savior for
messianic prophecies (for example, Matt. 1:23; the Whole World” at Matt. 8:10. Samaritans were
2:6, 14, 18, 23). But Jesus also broke down the treated with scorn by their Jewish cousins because
wall of hatred and separation between Jews they were half-Jew, half-Gentile. See “The Road
and Gentiles. By dealing with both groups Less Traveled” at John 4:4–42.

FIRST PROOFS
35 Matthew 16:9
Political Parties of Jesus’ Day

Matt. 16:1
Jesus seemed acutely aware of His society’s power brokers. He showed remarkable skill at po-
litical gamesmanship.
But He functioned in a system completely unlike our own. While we cannot do more
than speculate on Jesus’ political leanings, we can still grapple with the political dynamics of
Palestine during the first half of the first century. Jesus ministered in a tumultuous environment
where at least five major political parties flourished among the Jews.
The Herodians: humans to make wise choices according to

Defenders of the Status Quo the Law.
• Held only to the Law of Moses (the first
• Took their name from Herod the Great (37– five books of the Old Testament) as
4 b.c.) and his supporters (Acts 12:1, 2). authoritative.
• Encouraged the spread of Greco-Roman
culture and policies in Palestine. The Zealots: Firebrands of Revolution
• Favored political autonomy. Fearing • Fervent nationalists who awaited an
military intervention from Rome, they opportunity to revolt against Rome.
stridently resisted challengers to the • Resisted paying taxes to Rome or to the
status quo, including the Zealots, John the temple.
Baptist, Jesus, and the early Christians. • Their tax revolt led by Judas the Galilean
• Joined forces with other parties to eliminate against Rome (6 b.c.) secured Galilee’s
Jesus (Matt. 22:16; Mark 3:6; 12:13). reputation as a seedbed of revolutionaries.
• Blamed by some for the collapse of Judea
The Pharisees: Religious Legalists to Rome in the war of a.d. 66–70.
• Name means “To Separate.” • Sided with the Pharisees in supporting the Law.
• Held views similar to the Essenes but chose • Opposed the Herodians and Sadducees, who
not to flee the larger society. Many chose tried to maintain the political status quo.
to study the Law on their own, having lost • Intolerant of the Essenes and Christians for
respect for a corrupt priesthood. their tendencies toward nonviolence.
• Many served on the Jewish Council (see • The Zealots Judas Iscariot and Simon the
“The Council” at Acts 6:12–15). Canaanite were recruited by Jesus.
• Considered the doctors of the Law; scribes
were considered laymen. The Essenes: Detached Purists
• Collected and preserved voluminous • A sect of ascetics that thrived from the
products of oral tradition and Old middle of the second century b.c. until the
Testament commentary. Jewish-Roman war of a.d. 66–70.
• Legalistic and fanatically devoted to • Unlike the Pharisees, they separated
rabbinic tradition. Some refused to eat with from society, withdrawing into monastic
non-Pharisees for fear of contamination communities like Qumran, where the Dead
from food not ritually cleansed. Sea Scrolls were found.
• Favored political autonomy. • Known today mostly through secondary
• Differed with the Sadducees over the sources.
doctrine of resurrection. • Lived in groups that held property in
• Understood the coming kingdom as a common.
literal fulfillment of God’s promise to David • Believed in the immortality of the soul,
of a King to reign over Israel forever. angels, and an elaborate system of end-
• Developed an elaborate theology of angels times prophecies. Some awaited as many
and their intervention in human affairs. as three different Messiahs.
• Known for celibacy, pacifism, opposition
The Sadducees: The Urban Elite to slavery, caring for their sick and elderly,
• Included many of the aristocrats, priests, trading only within their own sect, simple
merchants, and urban elite in Jerusalem meals and dress, and rejection of all
and other cities of Judea. ostentatious display.
• Many served on the Jewish Council. Most • Carefully guarded the Sabbath and paid
high priests in the days of Jesus and the more attention than the Pharisees to
early church were Sadducees. ceremonial purity than even the Pharisees.
• Denied the existence of angels, a • May have influenced some early Christian
resurrection or life after death, as well as practices and rituals.
the doctrines of everlasting punishment
and a literal kingdom. More: In addition to the regional politics of Pal-
• Denied that God controls history, insisting estine, Jesus and His followers lived under Rome’s
on free will and the responsibility of potent influence.

FIRST PROOFS
Matthew 16:10 36
you took up? 10Nor the seven loaves of the
The Gates of Hell four thousand and how many large baskets
Matt. 16:18 you took up? 11How is it you do not under
stand that I did not speak to you concern
The citizens of ancient cities built walls to ing bread?—but to beware of the leaven
of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” 12 T hen
protect themselves from invaders. Along they understood that He did not tell them
the walls they built massive gates that could to beware of the leaven of bread, but of the
be opened to allow traffic into the city and doctrine of the Pharisees and Sadducees.
closed to deny entry to bandits or attacking
armies. Peter Confesses Jesus as the Christ
City gates became thoroughfares of 13 W hen Jesus came into the region of
commerce and social debate. Bazaars and Caesarea Philippi, He asked His disciples,
forums congregated around a city’s gates. saying, “Who do men say that I, the Son of
Goods changed hands and decision-makers Man, am?”
gathered to hear news and deliberate. In 14So they said, “Some say John the Bap
some cities, these gates continue to serve as tist, some Elijah, and others Jeremiah or
a hub for public life today. one of the prophets.”
During ancient times, gates eventually 15He said to them, “But who do you say
became a metaphor for the economic and that I am?”
16 Simon Peter answered and said, “You
political life of a city. The powerful and in-
fluential did their business “in the gates.” are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
17Jesus answered and said to him,
The husband of the virtuous woman of
Proverbs 31, for example, is “known in the “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for
gates, when he sits among the elders of the flesh and blood has not revealed this to
land” (Prov. 31:23). Boaz went to the gates to you, but My Father who is in heaven. 18And
buy a marriage license to marry Ruth (Ruth I also say to you that you are Peter, and on
this rock I will build My church, and the
4:1–12; compare Deut. 25:7). War plans were gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.
drawn up and military treaties were signed 19And I will give you the keys of the king
in the gates (Judg. 5:8, 11). Kings sat in the dom of heaven, and whatever you bind on
gates to address their people (2 Sam. 19:8). earth will be bound in heaven, and what
Even conspirators hatched their plots and ever you loose on earth will be looseda in
were exposed in the gates (Esth. 2:19–23). heaven.”
When Jesus mentioned the gates of 20 T hen He commanded His disciples
Hades, His words would have had potent that they should tell no one that He was
political associations for His listeners, like Jesus the Christ.
we might have with the terms city hall, the
Capitol, or the White House. The gates of Jesus Predicts His Death and Resurrection
Hades were not a mere spiritual abstraction 21From that time Jesus began to show to
but real evil forces working through human His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem,
systems that included government, specif- and suffer many things from the elders and
ically the Roman government, which was chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and
quickly becoming more and more corrupt be raised the third day.
22 T hen Peter took Him aside and began
and anti-Christian.
Jesus alluded to a spiritual warfare of to rebuke Him, saying, “Far be it from You,
cosmic proportions. His followers battle Lord; this shall not happen to You!”
23But He turned and said to Peter, “Get
forces that both attack individual Christians
behind Me, Satan! You are an offense to
and infiltrate institutions to enlist them in a Me, for you are not mindful of the things of
campaign against Christ. Satan’s guises take God, but the things of men.”
many forms (see “Angels and Demons” at
Matt. 8:29). Take Up the Cross and Follow Him
Jesus promised that the gates of Hades 24 T hen J esus said to His disciples, “If
will not succeed in the end. He offers hope to anyone desires to come after Me, let him
all of His followers who cope with challeng- deny himself, and take up his cross, and
ing situations and battle for good against en- follow Me. 25For whoever desires to save his
tities backed by spiritual forces of evil. In the life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for
midst of the fight, Jesus has declared, “I will My sake will find it. 26For what profit is it
build My church” (16:18). to a man if he gains the whole world, and
loses his own soul? Or what will a man give
More: During this conversation, Jesus and His in exchange for his soul? 27For the Son of
disciples stood in the shadow of a city named in Man will come in the glory of His Father
honor of Rome’s emperor. with His angels, and then He will reward
each according to his works. 28Assuredly,
I say to you, there are some standing here
16:19 a Or will have been bound . . . will have
been loosed

FIRST PROOFS
37 Matthew 17:24
who shall not taste death till they see the pleased. Hear Him!” 6And when the disci
Son of Man coming in His kingdom.” ples heard it, they fell on their faces and
were greatly afraid. 7But Jesus came and
Jesus Transfigured on the Mount touched them and said, “Arise, and do not
17 ‌Now after six days Jesus took Peter, be afraid.” 8 W hen they had lifted up their
James, and John his brother, led them eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only.
up on a high mountain by themselves; 2and 9 Now as they came down from the
He was transfigured before them. His face mountain, J esus commanded them, saying,
shone like the sun, and His clothes became “Tell the vision to no one until the Son of
as white as the light. 3And behold, Moses Man is risen from the dead.”
and Elijah appeared to them, talking with 10And His disciples asked Him, saying,
Him. 4 T hen Peter answered and said to “Why then do the scribes say that Elijah
Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here; if must come first?”
You wish, let usa make here three taberna 11
Jesus answered and said to them,
cles: one for You, one for Moses, and one “Indeed, Elijah is coming firsta and will
for Elijah.” restore all things. 12But I say to you that
5 W hile he was still speaking, behold, a Elijah has come already, and they did not
bright cloud overshadowed them; and sud know him but did to him whatever they
denly a voice came out of the cloud, saying, wished. Likewise the Son of Man is also
“This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well about to suffer at their hands.” 13 T hen the
disciples understood that He spoke to them
of John the Baptist.
Grow On Up
Matt. 16:22, 23 A Boy Is Healed
14 And when they had come to the mul
Peter liked to take charge and set his own titude, a man came to Him, kneeling down
agenda. But he found himself in over his to Him and saying, 15“Lord, have mercy on
head: my son, for he is an epileptica and suffers
severely; for he often falls into the fire and
• When Jesus walked on water, Peter tried often into the water. 16 So I brought him
to confirm Jesus’ identity by demanding to Your disciples, but they could not cure
an invitation to join Him on the water. him.”
After a few steps, Peter was overwhelmed 17 T hen J esus answered and said,
by the wind and the waves and sank in “O faithless and perverse generation, how
fear (Matt. 14:22–32). long shall I be with you? How long shall
• Peter exaggerated his commitment to I bear with you? Bring him here to Me.”
18 And Jesus rebuked the demon, and it
Christ, claiming that “even if I have to die
with You, I will not deny You!” (26:35). came out of him; and the child was cured
Only a few hours later he denied having from that very hour.
19 T hen the disciples came to J esus pri
any connection to Jesus (26:69–75).
• Peter tried to singlehandedly defend vately and said, “Why could we not cast it
Jesus against Roman soldiers who came out?”
20 So Jesus said to them, “Because of your
to arrest Him, even though he had failed
unbelief;a for assuredly, I say to you, if you
to “watch and pray” with Christ (26:36– have faith as a mustard seed, you will say
46; John 18:1–11). to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’
• Peter refused to let Jesus wash his feet and it will move; and nothing will be impos
at the Last Supper, then begged Him to sible for you. 21However, this kind does not
wash his hands, feet, and head as well go out except by prayer and fasting.” a
(13:5–11).
Peter’s leadership impulses were eventu- Jesus Again Predicts His Death and
ally brought under control, and he became a Resurrection
significant figure in the early church. Despite 22Now while they were stayinga in Gal
the false starts that resulted from Peter’s im- ilee, Jesus said to them, “The Son of Man
petuous nature, Peter grew up. Jesus enlisted is about to be betrayed into the hands of
this loyal follower to “feed My sheep” (21:17). men, 23and they will kill Him, and the third
Like Peter, our leadership skills may be day He will be raised up.” And they were
raw. We might be ready to jump at the first exceedingly sorrowful.
idea that enters our mind. We can instead let
Jesus harness our energies and talents for His Peter and His Master Pay Their Taxes
24 W hen they had come to Capernaum,a
glory. He has a plan for our growth, and it may
require slowing down before speeding up. those who received the temple tax came to
17:4 a NU‑Text reads I will. 17:11 a NU‑Text
More: Peter was not the only follower of omits first. 17:15 a Literally moonstruck
Christ who seemed like an unlikely candidate 17:20 a NU‑Text reads little faith. 17:21 a NU‑
to become a leader. See “Unlikely Leaders” at Text omits this verse. 17:22 a NU‑Text reads
Matt. 26:35–74. gathering together. 17:24 a NU‑Text reads
Capharnaum (here and elsewhere).

FIRST PROOFS
38
The Names of Jesus

Matt. 17:5
During the Transfiguration God the Father called Jesus “My beloved Son.” Elsewhere, Scripture
calls Jesus by names and titles that highlight other aspects of His nature, character, and mission.
Name or Title Description

Adam (1 Cor. 15:45) The first Adam’s sin brought death to humankind. Jesus, “the last
Adam,” brought life to humankind.
The Alpha and the Omega Jesus is eternal, “The Beginning and the End.” Alpha is the first
(Rev. 21:6) letter of the Greek alphabet, and omega is the last.
Apostle (Heb. 3:1) Apostle means “messenger.” Jesus came to bring the good news
of salvation to humanity.
The Bread of Life (John 6:35, 48) Jesus is the spiritual food God gives to those who ask.
The chief cornerstone Jesus is the church’s foundation.
(Eph. 2:20)
The Chief Shepherd (1 Pet. 5:4) Jesus cares for His flock, the church.
The Christ (Matt. 1:1, 17; 16:16; From the Greek word Christos, “Messiah” or “Anointed One.”
Luke 2:11; John 1:41) Jesus fulfills the Old Testament promise of a Messiah for God’s
people.
The Consolation of Israel (Luke Jesus came to comfort the nation of Israel (Is. 40:1, 2).
2:25)
The firstborn from the dead Jesus overcame death to give life to those who believe in Him.
(Col. 1:18)
The firstborn over all creation As God’s Son, Jesus rules over everything that exists.
(Col. 1:15)
The Good Shepherd (John 10:11, Describes Jesus’ relationship to His people.
14; compare Heb. 13:20)
The head of the body, the Jesus is His people’s leader and their source of life.
church (Eph. 1:22, 23; 4:15, 16;
Col. 1:18)
High Priest (Heb. 3:1) Like an Old Testament high priest, Jesus offers an acceptable
sacrifice for sin.
The Holy One of God (Mark 1:24; Jesus is the sinless Messiah promised by God.
John 6:69)
I AM (John 8:58) A name related to the verb “to be,” which God used to reveal
Himself to Moses (Ex. 3:14).
The image of the invisible God Jesus expresses God in bodily form.
(Col. 1:15)
Immanuel (Matt. 1:23) “God-With-Us” (Is. 7:14).
Jesus (Matt. 1:21; Luke 1:30; The name that God instructed Joseph and Mary to call their Son.
Acts 9:5)
King of kings and Lord of lords The formal title that indicates Jesus’ supremacy as the one to
(Rev. 19:16) whom “every knee should bow” (Phil. 2:9–11).
King of the Jews (Matt. 2:2; As the Messiah, Jesus is Israel’s King and the fulfillment of God’s
27:11, 12; John 19:19) promises to David (2 Sam. 7:12–16).
The Lamb of God (John 1:29, 35) Jesus became the atoning sacrifice for sin.
The Light of the World (John 9:5) Jesus brings truth and hope to light in the midst of spiritual
darkness.

FIRST PROOFS
39 Matthew 18:12
Peter and said, “Does your Teacher not pay Jesus Warns of Offenses
the temple tax?” 6 “Whoever causes one of these little
25He said, “Yes.”
ones who believe in Me to sin, it would
And when he had come into the house, be better for him if a millstone were hung
Jesus anticipated him, saying, “What do around his neck, and he were drowned in
you think, Simon? From whom do the kings the depth of the sea. 7 Woe to the world be
of the earth take customs or taxes, from cause of offenses! For offenses must come,
their sons or from strangers?” but woe to that man by whom the offense
26Peter said to Him, “From strangers.”
comes!
Jesus said to him, “Then the sons are 8 “If your hand or foot causes you to sin,
free. 27Nevertheless, lest we offend them, cut it off and cast it from you. It is better
go to the sea, cast in a hook, and take the for you to enter into life lame or maimed,
fish that comes up first. And when you have rather than having two hands or two feet,
opened its mouth, you will find a piece of to be cast into the everlasting fire. 9And if
money;a take that and give it to them for your eye causes you to sin, pluck it out and
Me and you.” cast it from you. It is better for you to enter
into life with one eye, rather than having
Who Is the Greatest? two eyes, to be cast into hell fire.
18 ‌ t that time the disciples came to

A
Jesus, saying, “Who then is greatest
in the kingdom of heaven?”
The Parable of the Lost Sheep
10 “Take heed that you do not despise
2 T hen J
esus called a little child to Him, one of these little ones, for I say to you that
set him in the midst of them, 3and said, in heaven their angels always see the face
“Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are of My Father who is in heaven. 11For the
converted and become as little children, Son of Man has come to save that which
you will by no means enter the kingdom was lost.a
of heaven. 4 T herefore whoever humbles 12 “What do you think? If a man has
himself as this little child is the greatest
in the kingdom of heaven. 5 W hoever re 17:27 a Greek stater, the exact amount to pay
ceives one little child like this in My name the temple tax (didrachma) for two 18:11 a NU‑
receives Me. Text omits this verse.
Name or Title Description

Lord (Luke 2:11; 1 Cor. 2:8; A title indicating ultimate sovereignty.
Phil. 2:11)
Mediator between God and men Jesus reestablishes the relationship between God and humanity.
(1 Tim. 2:5)
The only begotten of the Father Jesus is God’s only Son.
(John 1:14)
The Prophet (Mark 6:15; John Jesus is the leader that God promised to “raise up” like Moses
7:40; Acts 3:22) (Deut. 18:15, 18, 19).
Rabbi (John 1:38; 3:2) Friends and enemies alike recognized Jesus as Teacher.
Savior (Luke 1:47; 2:11) Jesus came to save people from their sins.
Seed (of Abraham; Gal. 3:16) God made promises to Abraham and his “Seed,” identified by
Paul as Christ (Gen. 13:15; 17:8).
The Son of Abraham (Matt. 1:1) Jesus descended from Abraham and fulfills God’s promises to
Abraham (Gen. 22:18).
The Son of David (Matt. 1:1) Jesus descended from David and fulfills God’s promises to David
(2 Sam. 7:12–16).
The Son of God (John 1:34; Jesus is one of three Persons of the Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy
9:35–37) Spirit).
The Son of Man (Matt. 18:11; Though fully God, Jesus took on a human body (compare
John 1:51) Phil. 2:5–8).
The Word (John 1:1; Rev. 19:13) Jesus is fully God and the full expression of God.

FIRST PROOFS
Matthew 18:13 40
a hundred sheep, and one of them goes wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt
astray, does he not leave the ninety-n ine because you begged me. 33Should you not
and go to the mountains to seek the one that also have had compassion on your fellow
is straying? 13And if he should find it, as servant, just as I had pity on you?’ 34 And
suredly, I say to you, he rejoices more over his master was angry, and delivered him
that sheep than over the ninety-nine that to the torturers until he should pay all that
did not go astray. 14Even so it is not the will was due to him.
of your Father who is in heaven that one of 35“So My heavenly Father also will do to
these little ones should perish. you if each of you, from his heart, does not
forgive his brother his trespasses.” a
Dealing with a Sinning Brother
15“Moreover if your brother sins against Marriage and Divorce
you, go and tell him his fault between you
and him alone. If he hears you, you have
gained your brother. 16But if he will not
19 ‌ ow it came to pass, when Jesus had
N
finished these sayings, that He de
parted from Galilee and came to the region
hear, take with you one or two more, that of Judea beyond the Jordan. 2 And great
‘by the mouth of two or three witnesses ev multitudes followed Him, and He healed
ery word may be established.’ a 17And if he them there.
3 T he Pharisees also came to Him, test
refuses to hear them, tell it to the church.
But if he refuses even to hear the church, ing Him, and saying to Him, “Is it lawful
let him be to you like a heathen and a tax for a man to divorce his wife for just any
collector. reason?”
18 “Assuredly, I say to you, whatever you 4 And He answered and said to them,
bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and “Have you not read that He who made a
whatever you loose on earth will be loosed them at the beginning ‘made them male
in heaven. and female,’ b 5and said, ‘For this reason a
19 “Again I say a to you that if two of you man shall leave his father and mother and
agree on earth concerning anything that be joined to his wife, and the two shall be
they ask, it will be done for them by My Fa come one flesh’ ?a 6So then, they are no lon
ther in heaven. 20For where two or three are ger two but one flesh. Therefore what God
gathered together in My name, I am there has joined together, let not man separate.”
7 T hey said to Him, “Why then did Mo
in the midst of them.”
ses command to give a certificate of di
The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant vorce, and to put her away?”
8He said to them, “Moses, because of the
21 T hen Peter came to Him and said,
hardness of your hearts, permitted you to
“Lord, how often shall my brother sin divorce your wives, but from the beginning
against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven it was not so. 9And I say to you, whoever di
times?”
22 Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you, vorces his wife, except for sexual immorali
ty,a and marries another, commits adultery;
up to seven times, but up to seventy times and whoever marries her who is divorced
23
seven. T herefore the kingdom of heaven commits adultery.”
is like a certain king who wanted to settle 10His disciples said to Him, “If such is
accounts with his servants. 24 And when the case of the man with his wife, it is better
he had begun to settle accounts, one was not to marry.”
brought to him who owed him ten thousand
talents. 25But as he was not able to pay, his
master commanded that he be sold, with Jesus Teaches on Celibacy
11But He said to them, “All cannot ac
his wife and children and all that he had,
and that payment be made. 26 T he servant cept this saying, but only those to whom
12
therefore fell down before him, saying, it has been given: For there are eunuchs
‘Master, have patience with me, and I will who were born thus from their mother’s
pay you all.’ 27 T hen the master of that ser womb, and there are eunuchs who were
vant was moved with compassion, released made eunuchs by men, and there are eu
him, and forgave him the debt. nuchs who have made themselves eunuchs
28 “But that servant went out and found for the kingdom of heaven’s sake. He who is
one of his fellow servants who owed him able to accept it, let him accept it.”
a hundred denarii; and he laid hands on
him and took him by the throat, saying, Jesus Blesses Little Children
‘Pay me what you owe!’ 29So his fellow ser 13 T hen little children were brought to
vant fell down at his feeta and begged him, Him that He might put His hands on them
saying, ‘Have patience with me, and I will and pray, but the disciples rebuked them.
pay you all.’ b 30And he would not, but went
and threw him into prison till he should 18:16 a Deuteronomy 19:15 18:19 a NU‑Text
pay the debt. 31So when his fellow servants and M‑ Text read Again, assuredly, I say.
18:29 a NU‑Text omits at his feet. b NU‑
saw what had been done, they were very Text and M‑Text omit all. 18:35 a NU‑Text
grieved, and came and told their master omits his trespasses. 19:4 a NU‑Text reads
32
all that had been done. T hen his master, created. b Genesis 1:27; 5:2 19:5 a Genesis
after he had called him, said to him, ‘You 2:24 19:9 a Or fornication

FIRST PROOFS
41 Matthew 20:7
14 But Jesus said, “Let the little children 19‘Honor your father and your mother,’ a
come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of and, ‘You shall love your neighbor as your
such is the kingdom of heaven.” 15And He self.’ ” b
laid His hands on them and departed from 20 T he young man said to Him, “All these
there. things I have kept from my youth.a What
do I still lack?”
Jesus Counsels the Rich Young Ruler 21Jesus said to him, “If you want to be
16 Now behold, one came and said to perfect, go, sell what you have and give
Him, “Good a Teacher, what good thing to the poor, and you will have treasure in
shall I do that I may have eternal life?” heaven; and come, follow Me.”
17So He said to him, “Why do you call 22But when the young man heard that
Me good? No one is good but One, that is, saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had
a
God.b But if you want to enter into life, keep great possessions.
the commandments.”
18He said to Him, “Which ones?”
With God All Things Are Possible
Jesus said, “ ‘You shall not murder,’ ‘You 23 T hen J
shall not commit adultery,’ ‘You shall not esus said to His disciples, “As
steal,’ ‘You shall not bear false witness,’ sured ly, I say to you that it is hard for a rich
man to enter the kingdom of heaven. 24 And
again I say to you, it is easier for a camel
to go through the eye of a needle than for
Jesus Valued Children a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.”
Matt. 19:14 25 W hen His disciples heard it, they
were greatly astonished, saying, “Who then
The warm welcome that Jesus extended to lit- can be saved?”
tle children spoke loudly about their worth. 26But J esus looked at them and said to
The disciples who rebuked the mothers for them, “With men this is impossible, but
bringing their babies to Jesus (Matt. 19:13) with God all things are possible.”
27 T hen Peter answered and said to Him,
may have reflected the dominant Greco-
Roman view of childhood as an insignificant “See, we have left all and followed You.
stage of life. Children were necessary for a Therefore what shall we have?”
28 So J esus said to them, “Assuredly I
family’s survival but were not valued for
their own sake. say to you, that in the regeneration, when
Unwanted infants in pagan cultures were the Son of Man sits on the throne of His
routinely abandoned on roadsides and at glory, you who have followed Me will also
garbage dumps. Gender and economics of- sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve
tribes of Israel. 29And everyone who has
ten determined an infant’s fate: girls were
left houses or brothers or sisters or father
left more often than boys because girls or mother or wifea or children or lands, for
represented a financial burden while boys My name’s sake, shall receive a hundred
would eventually contribute to a family’s in- fold, and inherit eternal life. 30But many
come. Most abandoned infants died. A few who are first will be last, and the last first.
were found by others and raised to become
slaves, gladiators, or prostitutes. Children
were considered so unimportant that pro- The Parable of the Workers
fessional beggars sometimes mutilated these in the Vineyard
abandoned children and used their misery
to garner sympathy from passersby. 20 ‌“For the kingdom of heaven is like a
landowner who went out early in the
morning to hire laborers for his vineyard.
Among the Jews, however, children had 2Now when he had agreed with the laborers
traditionally been considered a blessing from
God. The Law instructed both fathers and for a denarius a day, he sent them into his
mothers to nurture and care for children, but vineyard. 3And he went out about the third
hour and saw others standing idle in the
Jewish fathers had ultimate authority over marketplace, 4and said to them, ‘You also
all aspects of their children’s lives. They were go into the vineyard, and whatever is right
obligated to teach their children God’s com- I will give you.’ So they went. 5Again he
mands and raise them as active members of went out about the sixth and the ninth hour,
God’s chosen people (Deut. 6:6–8). Children and did likewise. 6And about the eleventh
in return were to honor their parents (5:16). hour he went out and found others standing
In Jewish culture, mothers usually took idle,a and said to them, ‘Why have you been
care of infants, who typically nursed until standing here idle all day?’ 7 T hey said to
the age of two or three. Wealthy Greeks and him, ‘Because no one hired us.’ He said to
Romans employed wet nurses, and as the
children grew, their care was turned over 19:16 a NU‑Text omits Good. 19:17 a NU‑
to slaves. Poor women worked with babies Text reads Why do you ask Me about what is
good? b NU‑Text reads There is One who is
slung on their backs, and children were good. 19:19 a Exodus 20:12–16; Deuteronomy
taught to help in their parents’ work as soon 5:16–20 b Leviticus 19:18 19:20 a NU‑Text
as they were able. omits from my youth. 19:29 a NU‑Text omits
or wife. 20:6 a NU‑Text omits idle.

FIRST PROOFS
Matthew 20:8 42
them, ‘You also go into the vineyard, and mock and to scourge and to crucify. And
whatever is right you will receive.’ a the third day He will rise again.”
8 “So when evening had come, the owner
of the vineyard said to his steward, ‘Call the Greatness Is Serving
laborers and give them their wages, begin 20 T hen the mother of Zebedee’s sons
ning with the last to the first.’ 9And when came to Him with her sons, kneeling down
those came who were hired about the elev and asking something from Him.
enth hour, they each received a denarius. 21 And He said to her, “What do you
10But when the first came, they supposed
wish?”
that they would receive more; and they She said to Him, “Grant that these two
likewise received each a denarius. 11And sons of mine may sit, one on Your right
when they had received it, they complained hand and the other on the left, in Your
against the landowner, 12 saying, ‘These kingdom.”
last men have worked only one hour, and 22But Jesus answered and said, “You
you made them equal to us who have borne do not know what you ask. Are you able
the burden and the heat of the day.’ 13But he to drink the cup that I am about to drink,
answered one of them and said, ‘Friend, I and be baptized with the baptism that I am
am doing you no wrong. Did you not agree baptized with?” a
with me for a denarius? 14 Take what is They said to Him, “We are able.”
yours and go your way. I wish to give to 23So He said to them, “You will indeed
this last man the same as to you. 15Is it not drink My cup, and be baptized with the
lawful for me to do what I wish with my baptism that I am baptized with;a but to
own things? Or is your eye evil because I sit on My right hand and on My left is not
am good?’ 16 So the last will be first, and Mine to give, but it is for those for whom it
the first last. For many are called, but few is prepared by My Father.”
chosen.” a 24 And when the ten heard it, they were
greatly displeased with the two brothers.
Jesus a Third Time Predicts His Death and 25But Jesus called them to Himself and said,
Resurrection “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles
17Now Jesus, going up to Jerusalem, lord it over them, and those who are great
took the twelve disciples aside on the road
and said to them, 18 “Behold, we are going 20:7 a NU‑Text omits the last clause of this
verse. 20:16 a NU‑Text omits the last sentence
up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will of this verse. 20:22 a NU‑Text omits and be
be betrayed to the chief priests and to the baptized with the baptism that I am baptized
scribes; and they will condemn Him to with. 20:23 a NU‑Text omits and be baptized
death, 19and deliver Him to the Gentiles to with the baptism that I am baptized with.
Wages and Grace Leaders Serve

Matt. 20:1–16 Matt. 20:25–28
Anyone who feels underpaid and under- When Jesus’ disciples quarreled over who
valued can appreciate the reaction of the among them was greatest, He called their at-
workers in the parable about wages. Jesus tention to His new style of assessing impor-
described an employer who hired some tance. He told them that attaining greatness
workers for a full day, others for two-thirds required becoming a slave. Leading would
of a day, others for half a day, and others mean taking the role of a servant. Jesus’ own
for even less. Yet he paid them all the same example shows us what servant-leadership
amount. Those who had worked long and looks like:
hard in the heat of the day felt abused. • We are called by God to serve and lead.
The first thing to notice as we struggle • We intimately know the people we serve
to understand this parable is that none of and lead.
the workers had a job before the landown- • We care deeply about those we serve and
er hired them (Matt. 20:3, 6, 7). They found lead.
work because of the employer’s goodwill • We willingly sacrifice our own
and initiative, not because of anything they convenience to meet the needs of people
brought to the situation. Moreover, the land- we serve and lead.
owner promised the first group fair wages for
a day’s work, which he delivered (20:2; see Nehemiah embraced the kind of servant-
also “Seventy Times Seven” at Matt. 18:21– leadership that Jesus praised. Learn more
35), and he offered the rest of the workers an in “Leadership Principles from Nehemiah:
undetermined amount (“whatever is right,” Leaders Resist Underhanded Politics” at
20:4, 7). As it turned out, he paid everyone Nehemiah 6:5– 9. Discover the powerful
for a full day. In the kingdom of God, we image Jesus used when He compared true
receive grace because of the nature of the leadership to slavery in “Who You Serve” at
Giver, not because of our own worthiness. Romans 6:16.

FIRST PROOFS
43 Matthew 21:10
exercise authority over them. 26 Yet it shall a donkey tied, and a colt with her. Loose
not be so among you; but whoever desires them and bring them to Me. 3And if anyone
to become great among you, let him be your says anything to you, you shall say, ‘The
servant. 27And whoever desires to be first Lord has need of them,’ and immediately
among you, let him be your slave—28just as he will send them.”
the Son of Man did not come to be served, 4 Alla this was done that it might be ful
but to serve, and to give His life a ransom filled which was spoken by the prophet,
for many.” saying:
5 “Tell the daughter of Zion,
Two Blind Men Receive Their Sight ‘Behold, your King is coming to
29Now as they went out of Jericho, a you,
great multitude followed Him. 30And be Lowly, and sitting on a donkey,
hold, two blind men sitting by the road, A colt, the foal of a donkey.’ ” a
when they heard that J esus was passing
6 So the disciples went and did as Jesus
by, cried out, saying, “Have mercy on us,
O Lord, Son of David!” commanded them. 7 T hey brought the don
31 T hen the multitude warned them that key and the colt, laid their clothes on them,
they should be quiet; but they cried out and set Hima on them. 8And a very great
all the more, saying, “Have mercy on us, multitude spread their clothes on the road;
O Lord, Son of David!” others cut down branches from the trees
32 So J
esus stood still and called them, and spread them on the road. 9 T hen the
and said, “What do you want Me to do for multitudes who went before and those who
you?” followed cried out, saying:
33 T hey said to Him, “Lord, that our eyes
“Hosanna to the Son of David!
may be opened.” 34So Jesus had compas ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name
sion and touched their eyes. And imme of the Lord!’ a
diately their eyes received sight, and they Hosanna in the highest!”
followed Him.
10And when He had come into Jerusa
The Triumphal Entry lem, all the city was moved, saying, “Who
is this?”
21 ‌ ow when they drew near Jerusa
N
lem, and came to Bethphage,a at the
Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two disci
21:1 a M‑Text reads Bethsphage. 21:4 a NU‑
Text omits All. 21:5 a Zechariah 9:9
ples, 2 saying to them, “Go into the village 21:7 a NU‑Text reads and He sat. 21:9 a Psalm
opposite you, and immediately you will find 118:26
A Humble Parade
Matt. 21:1–11
Jerusalem was overflowing with an influx of

religious pilgrims. The city’s preparations for Sheep Gate Possible route of
Jesus’ entry into
the Passover created the perfect moment for temple area
Jesus to enter Jerusalem to the loud cheers

of people who were familiar with His minis-
lley
try. Two prophets had foretold His arrival in Temple

es
Mount
Jerusalem (Is. 62:11; Zech. 9:9). But as Jesus
Va
iv
entered the city, He demonstrated not pride

Ol
n
Jerusalem
ro
but humility.
f
d
. o
Ki
The Messiah did not plan a parade of char-

Mt
iots, trumpets, and orchestrated ceremony.

He did not ride into town on a prancing war
Ro d f
a
horse. Rather than walking arm-in-arm with ro

mB
ethp
powerful officials and other prominent citi- N
0 250 500
hag
e
zens, He was accompanied by a small band of
YARDS
fishermen, rural Galileans, even a former tax

collector. He arrived on a donkey, a common spent the night in a humble house in nearby
beast of burden. Bethany (21:17).
At the end of the parade route, Jesus did As Jesus prepared to die, He focused His
not seek a welcome from city leaders. He final activities on people in need of His love,
marched to the temple, where He overthrew forgiveness, and hope—people without privi-
tables of businesses that manipulated the lege and power (Luke 4:18).
poor and made the house of worship into a More: Jesus surrounded Himself with people who
place of profit (Matt. 21:12, 13). He focused on had low social standing and little influence. See
the blind, the lame, and children (21:14–16). “Ordinary People at the Cross” at Matt. 27:32.
And when He completed the day’s tasks, He

FIRST PROOFS
Matthew 21:11 44
11So the multitudes said, “This is J esus, marveled, saying, “How did the fig tree
the prophet from Nazareth of Galilee.” wither away so soon?”
21So Jesus answered and said to them,
Jesus Cleanses the Temple “Assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith
12 T hen Jesus went into the temple of and do not doubt, you will not only do what
Goda and drove out all those who bought was done to the fig tree, but also if you say
and sold in the temple, and overturned to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast
the tables of the money changers and the into the sea,’ it will be done. 22And what
seats of those who sold doves. 13And He ever things you ask in prayer, believing,
said to them, “It is written, ‘My house shall you will receive.”
be called a house of prayer,’ a but you have
made it a ‘den of thieves.’ ” b Jesus’ Authority Questioned
14 T hen the blind and the lame came to 23Now when He came into the temple,
Him in the temple, and He healed them. the chief priests and the elders of the peo
15But when the chief priests and scribes ple confronted Him as He was teaching,
saw the wonderful things that He did, and and said, “By what authority are You do
the children crying out in the temple and ing these things? And who gave You this
saying, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” authority?”
they were indignant 16and said to Him, “Do 24 But Jesus answered and said to them,
You hear what these are saying?” “I also will ask you one thing, which if you
And Jesus said to them, “Yes. Have you tell Me, I likewise will tell you by what au
never read, thority I do these things: 25 T he baptism of
‘Out of the mouth of babes and nursing John—where was it from? From heaven or
infants from men?”
You have perfected praise’ ?” a And they reasoned among themselves,
saying, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ He will
17 T hen He left them and went out of the
say to us, ‘Why then did you not believe
city to Bethany, and He lodged there. him?’ 26But if we say, ‘From men,’ we fear
the multitude, for all count John as a proph
The Fig Tree Withered et.” 27So they answered Jesus
and said, “We
18Now in the morning, as He returned do not know.”
19
to the city, He was hungry. And seeing a And He said to them, “Neither will I tell
fig tree by the road, He came to it and found you by what authority I do these things.
nothing on it but leaves, and said to it, “Let
no fruit grow on you ever again.” Immedi The Parable of the Two Sons
ately the fig tree withered away. 28 “But what do you think? A man had
two sons, and he came to the first and said,
The Lesson of the Withered Fig Tree ‘Son, go, work today in my vineyard.’ 29He
20And when the disciples saw it, they answered and said, ‘I will not,’ but after
ward he regretted it and went. 30 T hen he
came to the second and said likewise. And
A Challenge to Authority he answered and said, ‘I go, sir,’ but he did
Matt. 21:23–27 not go. 31 W hich of the two did the will of
his father?”
When Israel’s top leaders attacked Jesus with They said to Him, “The first.”
threatening questions, He answered with Jesus said to them, “Assuredly, I say to
questions of His own. His interaction with the you that tax collectors and harlots enter
chief priests and elders reveals two important the kingdom of God before you. 32For John
considerations: came to you in the way of righteousness,
and you did not believe him; but tax col
1. The motives of the challengers. The lectors and harlots believed him; and when
scribes and Pharisees were not looking you saw it, you did not afterward relent and
to understand the reach or source of believe him.
Jesus’ authority. They wanted solely to
protect their own interests and power. The Parable of the Wicked Vinedressers
33 “Hear another parable: There was a
Their behavior prompts us to examine
how often we question or resist people certain landowner who planted a vineyard
in authority simply because we are and set a hedge around it, dug a winepress
afraid or jealous of them. in it and built a tower. And he leased it to
2. The confidence of Jesus. The Lord’s vinedressers and went into a far country.
34 Now when vintage-t ime drew near, he
attackers were unable to force the
sent his servants to the vinedressers, that
reaction they wanted from Him because they might receive its fruit. 35And the vine
Jesus knew with absolute certainty who dressers took his servants, beat one, killed
He was and whose authority He wielded one, and stoned another. 36Again he sent
(Matt. 28:18). His response encourages other servants, more than the first, and
us to remember that no one can
intimidate us without our permission. 21:12 a NU‑Text omits of God. 21:13 a Isaiah
56:7 b Jeremiah 7:11 21:16 a Psalm 8:2

FIRST PROOFS
45 Matthew 22:22
they did likewise to them. 37 T hen last of all vants, treated them spitefully, and killed
he sent his son to them, saying, ‘They will them. 7But when the king heard about it,
respect my son.’ 38But when the vinedress he was furious. And he sent out his armies,
ers saw the son, they said among them destroyed those murderers, and burned up
selves, ‘This is the heir. Come, let us kill their city. 8 T hen he said to his servants,
him and seize his inheritance.’ 39So they ‘The wedding is ready, but those who were
took him and cast him out of the vineyard invited were not worthy. 9 T herefore go into
and killed him. the highways, and as many as you find, in
40 “Therefore, when the owner of the vite to the wedding.’ 10 So those servants
vineyard comes, what will he do to those went out into the highways and gathered
vinedressers?” together all whom they found, both bad and
41 T hey said to Him, “He will destroy good. And the wedding hall was filled with
those wicked men miserably, and lease his guests.
vineyard to other vinedressers who will 11“But when the king came in to see the
render to him the fruits in their seasons.” guests, he saw a man there who did not
42 Jesus said to them, “Have you never have on a wedding garment. 12So he said
read in the Scriptures: to him, ‘Friend, how did you come in here
‘The stone which the builders rejected without a wedding garment?’ And he was
Has become the chief cornerstone. speechless. 13 T hen the king said to the ser
This was the Lord’s doing, vants, ‘Bind him hand and foot, take him
And it is marvelous in our eyes’ ?a away, anda cast him into outer darkness;
there will be weeping and gnashing of
43 “Therefore I say to you, the kingdom teeth.’
of God will be taken from you and given 14“For many are called, but few are cho
to a nation bearing the fruits of it. 44 And sen.”
whoever falls on this stone will be broken;
but on whomever it falls, it will grind him The Pharisees: Is It Lawful to Pay Taxes
to powder.” to Caesar?
45Now when the chief priests and Phar
15 T hen the Pharisees went and plotted
isees heard His parables, they perceived how they might entangle Him in His talk.
that He was speaking of them. 46But when 16And they sent to Him their disciples with
they sought to lay hands on Him, they the Herodians, saying, “Teacher, we know
feared the multitudes, because they took that You are true, and teach the way of God
Him for a prophet. in truth; nor do You care about anyone, for
The Parable of the Wedding Feast You do not regard the person of men. 17 Tell
us, therefore, what do You think? Is it law
22 ‌A nd Jesus answered and spoke to ful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?”
them again by parables and said:
2 “The kingdom of heaven is like a certain
18But J esus perceived their wickedness,
and said, “Why do you test Me, you hypo
king who arranged a marriage for his son, crites? 19Show Me the tax money.”
3 and sent out his servants to call those
So they brought Him a denarius.
who were invited to the wedding; and they 20And He said to them, “Whose image
were not willing to come. 4 Again, he sent and inscription is this?”
out other servants, saying, ‘Tell those who 21 T hey said to Him, “Caesar’s.”
are invited, “See, I have prepared my din And He said to them, “Render therefore
ner; my oxen and fatted cattle are killed, to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and
and all things are ready. Come to the wed to God the things that are God’s.” 22 W hen
ding.” ’ 5But they made light of it and went
their ways, one to his own farm, another to 21:42 a Psalm 118:22, 23 22:13 a NU‑Text omits
his business. 6And the rest seized his ser take him away, and.
Harlots Enter the Kingdom

Matt. 21:31, 32
Jesus’ startling statement about harlots entering the kingdom of God was not an endorsement
of their profession but a condemnation of the self-righteousness and unbelief of Israel’s reli-
gious leaders. Faith was the key to the kingdom, and prostitutes showed more faith in Jesus
than those who claimed to be religious.
Despite laws against adultery and bans on By contrast, Jesus was known as a friend
the ritual sexual activities that took place in of sinners who welcomed people who knew
many pagan temples, prostitutes were com- they needed forgiveness (Matt. 11:19; Luke
mon in Hebrew society (see “Prostitutes in the 7:36–50). His words show that people do not
Ancient World” at Judg. 16:1). In Jesus’ day have to become good before they meet God.
they endured the scorn of the religious elite, He responds to faith no matter how troubled
especially the Pharisees, who avoided contact our past. Then He guides us as we establish a
with anyone they regarded as sinful. new life.

FIRST PROOFS
Matthew 22:23 46
they had heard these words, they marveled, wife of the seven will she be? For they all
and left Him and went their way. had her.”
29
Jesus answered and said to them,
The Sadducees: What About “You are mistaken, not knowing the Scrip
the Resurrection? tures nor the power of God. 30For in the res
23 T he same day the Sadducees, who say urrection they neither marry nor are given
there is no resurrection, came to Him and in marriage, but are like angels of Goda in
asked Him, 24saying: “Teacher, Moses said heaven. 31But concerning the resurrection
that if a man dies, having no children, his of the dead, have you not read what was
brother shall marry his wife and raise up spoken to you by God, saying, 32‘I am the
offspring for his brother. 25Now there were God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the
with us seven brothers. The first died after
God of Jacob’ ?a God is not the God of
the dead, but of the living.” 33And when
he had married, and having no offspring, the multitudes heard this, they were aston
left his wife to his brother. 26Likewise the ished at His teaching.
second also, and the third, even to the sev
enth. 27Last of all the woman died also. 22:30 a NU‑Text omits of God. 22:32 a Exodus
28 T herefore, in the resurrection, whose 3:6, 15
Trick Questions
Matt. 22:23–33
The Sadducees tried to trap Jesus in front of a crowd with a question on serial marriage rela-
tionships. They attempted to corner Him regarding His teaching on the resurrection, a belief
they rejected.
Jesus exposed their thinly veiled plot and manipulation and trickery. The world should
at the same time affirmed the resurrection. He know His followers as people who speak the
used the very Scriptures they loved to quote truth.
(Matt. 22:32 is from Ex. 3:6) and refused to let
them twist things to their advantage. He cut to More: Speaking the truth in love is one of the
the heart of the matter. main qualities of Christlike character. Read
There is nothing wrong with being discreet Eph. 4:15.
or stating things subtly and diplomatically. Think About It: What is the difference between
Sometimes we need to plant seeds in another manipulation and stating things subtly or
person’s thinking and allow time for an idea diplomatically?
to take root. But here Jesus challenged selfish
What Kind of Love?

Matt. 22:34– 40
The Greek language employed by New Testament authors had four different words for love:
1. Erōs was used in the context of male- for the world (3:16). It is also the love
female relationships and included that God calls His followers to display
physical desire, craving, and longing. This (1 Cor. 13:1–13).
word for love does not appear in the New When Jesus spoke the greatest of the com-
Testament. mandments, He called us to agapē-love. He
2. Stergos denoted affection and was often commanded an ongoing, conscious choice
applied to the mutual love between to graciously serve God and others while ex-
family members. This word is also not pecting nothing in return. As His followers, we
used in the New Testament. learn this kind of love from Him. (1 John 3:11–
3. Philos reflected the concern and care 24). His constant care for us empowers us to
of friends for each other—what we call sustain love as an act of the will rather than as
brotherly love. Peter and Jesus discussed a fleeting expression of emotion. We show love
this kind of love when the Lord sent Peter even when we feel weary or rejected. Love is
to care for His followers (John 21:15–17). intentional, expresses itself, and includes com-
4. Agapē described a supreme love involving passion and grace.
a conscious and deliberate choice to do
good for another. It is powered by the More: The Bible invites us to discover love’s true
choice of the one who shows love, not nature through its portrayal of love from many
the worthiness of the one who receives angles. See “Love Is as Strong as Death” at Song
it. Agapē is best seen in God’s love 8:6.

FIRST PROOFS
47 Matthew 23:34
The Scribes: Which Is the First scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you
Commandment of All? devour widows’ houses, and for a pretense
34 But when the Pharisees heard that He make long prayers. Therefore you will re
had silenced the Sadducees, they gathered ceive greater condemnation.a
15 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees,
together. 35 T hen one of them, a lawyer,
asked Him a question, testing Him, and hypocrites! For you travel land and sea to
saying, 36 “Teacher, which is the great com win one proselyte, and when he is won, you
mandment in the law?” make him twice as much a son of hell as
37Jesus said to him, “ ‘ You shall love the yourselves.
16 “Woe to you, blind guides, who say,
Lord your God with all your heart, with all
your soul, and with all your mind.’ a 38 T his ‘Whoever swears by the temple, it is noth
is the first and great commandment. 39And ing; but whoever swears by the gold of the
the second is like it: ‘You shall love your temple, he is obliged to perform it.’ 17Fools
neighbor as yourself.’ a 40 On these two and blind! For which is greater, the gold or
commandments hang all the Law and the the temple that sanctifiesa the gold? 18And,
Prophets.” ‘Whoever swears by the altar, it is nothing;
but whoever swears by the gift that is on
Jesus: How Can David Call His Descendant it, he is obliged to perform it.’ 19Fools and
blind! For which is greater, the gift or the
Lord? altar that sanctifies the gift? 20 T herefore
41 W hile the Pharisees were gathered to
he who swears by the altar, swears by it
gether, Jesus asked them, 42saying, “What and by all things on it. 21He who swears by
do you think about the Christ? Whose Son the temple, swears by it and by Him who
is He?” dwellsa in it. 22And he who swears by heav
They said to Him, “The Son of David.” en, swears by the throne of God and by Him
43He said to them, “How then does Da
who sits on it.
vid in the Spirit call Him ‘Lord,’ saying: 23 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees,
44 ‘The Lord said to my Lord, hypocrites! For you pay tithe of mint and
“Sit at My right hand, anise and cummin, and have neglected the
Till I make Your enemies Your weightier matters of the law: justice and
footstool” ’ ? a mercy and faith. These you ought to have
45If David then calls Him ‘Lord,’ how is He
done, without leaving the others undone.
24 Blind guides, who strain out a gnat and
his Son?” 46And no one was able to answer swallow a camel!
Him a word, nor from that day on did any 25 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees,
one dare question Him anymore. hypocrites! For you cleanse the outside of
the cup and dish, but inside they are full
Woe to the Scribes and Pharisees of extortion and self-indulgence.a 26Blind
23 ‌ hen J esus spoke to the multitudes
T
and to His disciples, 2 saying: “The
scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses’
Pharisee, first cleanse the inside of the cup
and dish, that the outside of them may be
clean also.
seat. 3 T herefore whatever they tell you to 27 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees,
observe,a that observe and do, but do not hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed
do according to their works; for they say, tombs which indeed appear beautiful out
and do not do. 4 For they bind heavy bur wardly, but inside are full of dead men’s
dens, hard to bear, and lay them on men’s bones and all uncleanness. 28Even so you
shoulders; but they themselves will not also outwardly appear righteous to men,
move them with one of their fingers. 5But but inside you are full of hypocrisy and
all their works they do to be seen by men. lawlessness.
They make their phylacteries broad and en 29 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees,
large the borders of their garments. 6 T hey hypocrites! Because you build the tombs of
love the best places at feasts, the best seats the prophets and adorn the monuments of
in the synagogues, 7greetings in the mar the righteous, 30and say, ‘If we had lived in
ketplaces, and to be called by men, ‘Rabbi, the days of our fathers, we would not have
Rabbi.’ 8But you, do not be called ‘Rabbi’; been partakers with them in the blood of
for One is your Teacher, the Christ,a and the prophets.’
you are all brethren. 9Do not call anyone 31“Therefore you are w itnesses against
on earth your father; for One is your Fa yourselves that you are sons of those who
ther, He who is in heaven. 10And do not be 32
murdered the prophets. Fill up, then, the
called teachers; for One is your Teacher, measure of your fathers’ guilt. 33Serpents,
the Christ. 11But he who is greatest among brood of vipers! How can you escape the
you shall be your servant. 12And whoever condemnation of hell? 34 T herefore, indeed,
exalts himself will be humbled, and he who
humbles himself will be exalted. 22:37 a Deuteronomy 6:5 22:39 a Leviticus
13 “But woe to you, scribes and Phari 19:18 22:44 a Psalm 110:1 23:3 a NU‑Text
omits to observe. 23:8 a NU‑Text omits the
sees, hypocrites! For you shut up the king Christ. 23:14 a NU‑Text omits this verse.
dom of heaven against men; for you neither 23:17 a NU‑Text reads sanctified. 23:21 a M‑
go in yourselves, nor do you allow those Text reads dwelt. 23:25 a M‑Text reads
who are entering to go in. 14 Woe to you, unrighteousness.

FIRST PROOFS
Matthew 23:35 48
I send you prophets, wise men, and scribes: chicks under her wings, but you were not
some of them you will kill and crucify, and willing! 38See! Your house is left to you des
some of them you will scourge in your syn olate; 39for I say to you, you shall see Me no
agogues and persecute from city to city, more till you say, ‘Blessed is He who comes
35that on you may come all the righteous in the name of the Lord!’ ” a
blood shed on the earth, from the blood of
righteous Abel to the blood of Zechariah, Jesus Predicts the Destruction
son of Berechiah, whom you murdered be of the Temple
tween the temple and the altar. 36Assuredly,
I say to you, all these things will come upon
this generation.
24 ‌ hen Jesus went out and departed
T
from the temple, and His disciples
came up to show Him the buildings of the
temple. 2And J esus said to them, “Do you
Jesus Laments over Jerusalem not see all these things? Assuredly, I say to
37 “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the one who you, not one stone shall be left here upon
kills the prophets and stones those who are another, that shall not be thrown down.”
sent to her! How often I wanted to gather
your children together, as a hen gathers her 23:39 a Psalm 118:26
Tithing
Matt. 23:23, 24
The word tithe means “a tenth part.” In the Old Testament, God commanded the Israelites to
give tithes—a tenth of their produce or income—for three reasons:
1. To support the Levites, who were (Gen. 14:17–20) as an expression of

responsible for the tabernacle and gratitude when God rescued him in battle.
worship (see “Sharing the Wealth” at Scripture always puts worship at the heart
Num. 18:20–24). of tithing.
2. To support feasts and sacrifices 2. Everything we have ultimately comes
(see “Celebrating Abundance” at from and belongs to God, not only what
Deut. 14:22–26). we give away but also what we keep. God
3. To set aside resources to assist the poor, claims 100 percent of our income, not 10
orphans, widows, and foreigners (see “The percent.
Third-Year Tithe and Government Aid” at 3. Ten percent is a good starting point for
Deut. 14:28, 29). giving.
4. The New Testament is clear that
In the New Testament, neither Christ nor
vocational Christian workers have a right
the apostles give explicit instructions about
to financial support from those to whom
tithing. Jesus clearly endorsed the practice,
they minister (1 Cor. 9:13, 14; Gal. 6:6).
however, as He did all the dictates of the
5. Many churches and other ministries
Law (Matt. 5:17– 20; 23:23). He denounced
assist the needy, and it seems legitimate
the Pharisees for hypocritically ignoring the
to encourage members of a Christian
“weightier matters” of the Law, such as justice,
community to donate money to those
mercy, and faith, but those important issues
priorities.
did not negate other matters such as tithing.
6. No matter how much we give or to whom,
As Christians evaluate the practice of tithing
Jesus indicates that our first priority
today, several principles emerge:
should be to ensure that justice is carried
1. Our giving should spring from a out around us. We are to show mercy to
love of Christ rather than a sense of our neighbors. Rather than just talk about
obligation. Abraham gave the first tithe our faith, we are to put it into action.
Whitewashed Tombs
Matt. 23:27, 28
Jesus drew on a grim image as He denounced Since Jews were made ritually unclean by
the self-righteous Pharisees. At the end of a touching graves (Num. 19:16), the rocks used
Jewish funeral procession—a slow march that to seal tombs were whitewashed as a warning
onlookers were obliged to join—the body was to stay away. The glaze gave the outside of a
placed in a tomb on a rock shelf. Once the tomb a clean appearance, even though inside
flesh had decomposed, bones were collected corpses were decomposing.
and removed, allowing the shelf to be reused.

FIRST PROOFS
49 Matthew 24:29
The Signs of the Times and the End 4 And Jesus answered and said to them:
of the Age “Take heed that no one deceives you. 5For
3Now as He sat on the Mount of Olives, many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am
the Christ,’ and will deceive many. 6And
the disciples came to Him privately, saying, you will hear of wars and rumors of wars.
“Tell us, when will these things be? And See that you are not troubled; for alla these
what will be the sign of Your coming, and things must come to pass, but the end is not
of the end of the age?” yet. 7For nation will rise against nation, and
kingdom against kingdom. And there will
be famines, pestilences,a and earthquakes
Jerusalem in various places. 8All these are the begin
Matt. 23:37 ning of sorrows.
9 “Then they will deliver you up to trib
■ Palestine’s leading city throughout much of ulation and kill you, and you will be hated
the biblical era. by all nations for My name’s sake. 10And
then many will be offended, will betray one
■ Well-situated for defense on two triangular
another, and will hate one another. 11 T hen
ridges that converged to the south, bor- many false prophets will rise up and de
dered by the Kidron Valley on the east and ceive many. 12And because lawlessness will
the Valley of Hinnom on the west. abound, the love of many will grow cold.
13But he who endures to the end shall be
■ Appears in the Bible as early as Abraham
(Gen. 14:18), and the site had likely been saved. 14 And this gospel of the kingdom
will be preached in all the world as a wit
inhabited for centuries before then. ness to all the nations, and then the end will
■ Captured by David and made Israel’s come.
capital.
■ Site of Solomon’s temple during the monarchy The Great Tribulation
15 “Therefore when you see the ‘abomi
and Herod’s temple during the first century.
nation of desolation,’ a spoken of by Daniel
■ Population in Jesus’ day was probably
the prophet, standing in the holy place”
60,000 to 70,000, though estimates range (whoever reads, let him understand),
all the way from 40,000 to 12 million. 16 “then let those who are in Judea flee to
■ Besieged and destroyed by Rome in A.D. 70. the mountains. 17Let him who is on the
housetop not go down to take anything
■ Relatively small but densely populated with
out of his house. 18And let him who is in
numerous suburbs. the field not go back to get his clothes.
19But woe to those who are pregnant and
Long before and after Christ, Jerusalem
has been esteemed as far more than an ordi- to those who are nursing babies in those
nary city. And as the center of Israel’s govern- days! 20And pray that your flight may not
ment, culture, and religion, it bore the brunt be in winter or on the Sabbath. 21For then
of Jesus’ anguished cry over the Jews’ rejection there will be great tribulation, such as has
of Him (Matt. 23:37, 38). not been since the beginning of the world
until this time, no, nor ever shall be. 22And
Even though Jesus visited Jerusalem sev- unless those days were shortened, no flesh
eral times, most of its population never re- would be saved; but for the elect’s sake
sponded to the Son of God. Nor did the city those days will be shortened.
welcome His followers when they brought the 23 “Then if anyone says to you, ‘Look,
message of His resurrection. The place known here is the Christ!’ or ‘There!’ do not believe
as the holy city (4:5) rejected the Holy One of it. 24For false christs and false prophets will
Israel, the Son of God. rise and show great signs and wonders to
deceive, if possible, even the elect. 25See, I
Sea of have told you beforehand.
JERUSALEM Nazareth Galilee 26 “Therefore if they say to you, ‘Look,
Center of Jewish He is in the desert!’ do not go out; or ‘Look,
worship— He is in the inner rooms!’ do not believe it.
Jordan R iver
27For as the lightning comes from the east

the Holy City.
Samaria and flashes to the west, so also will the
SA coming of the Son of Man be. 28For wher
MA ever the carcass is, there the eagles will be
ea
gathered together.
an S
RIA
ane
Jericho
The Coming of the Son of Man
err
Bethlehem 29 “Immediately after the tribulation of

dit
Dead
Me
Sea those days the sun will be darkened, and

JUDEA the moon will not give its light; the stars
0 15 30 will fall from heaven, and the powers of the
MILES
Beersheba N
24:6 a NU‑Text omits all. 24:7 a NU‑Text omits
pestilences. 24:15 a Daniel 11:31; 12:11

FIRST PROOFS
Matthew 24:30 50
heavens will be shaken. 30 T hen the sign of groom. 2Now five of them were wise, and
the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and five were foolish. 3 T hose who were foolish
then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, took their lamps and took no oil with them,
and they will see the Son of Man c oming 4but the wise took oil in their vessels with
on the clouds of heaven with power and their lamps. 5But while the bridegroom was
great glory. 31And He will send His angels delayed, they all slumbered and slept.
with a great sound of a trumpet, and they 6 “And at midnight a cry was heard:
will gather together His elect from the four ‘Behold, the bridegroom is coming;a go
winds, from one end of heaven to the other. out to meet him!’ 7 T hen all those virgins
arose and trimmed their lamps. 8And the
The Parable of the Fig Tree foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of
32 “Now learn this parable from the fig your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ 9But
tree: When its branch has already become the wise answered, saying, ‘No, lest there
tender and puts forth leaves, you know that should not be enough for us and you; but
summer is near. 33So you also, when you go rather to those who sell, and buy for
see all these things, know that ita is near— yourselves.’ 10And while they went to buy,
at the doors! 34 Assuredly, I say to you, this the bridegroom came, and those who were
generation will by no means pass away till ready went in with him to the wedding; and
all these things take place. 35Heaven and the door was shut.
11“Afterward the other virgins came
earth will pass away, but My words will by
no means pass away. also, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open to us!’ 12But
he answered and said, ‘Assuredly, I say to
No One Knows the Day or Hour you, I do not know you.’
13 “Watch therefore, for you know nei
36 “But of that day and hour no one
knows, not even the angels of heaven,a but ther the day nor the h our a in which the Son
My Father only. 37But as the days of Noah of Man is coming.
were, so also will the coming of the Son of
Man be. 38For as in the days before the flood, The Parable of the Talents
they were eating and drinking, marrying 14 “For the kingdom of heaven is like a
and giving in marriage, until the day that man traveling to a far country, who called
Noah entered the ark, 39and did not know his own servants and delivered his goods to
until the flood came and took them all away, them. 15And to one he gave five talents, to
so also will the coming of the Son of Man another two, and to another one, to each ac
be. 40 Then two men will be in the field: one cording to his own ability; and immediately
will be taken and the other left. 41 Two wom- he went on a journey. 16 T hen he who had
en will be grinding at the mill: one will be received the five talents went and traded
taken and the other left. 42 Watch therefore, with them, and made another five talents.
for you do not know what hour a your Lord 17And likewise he who had received two
is coming. 43But know this, that if the mas gained two more also. 18But he who had re
ter of the house had known what hour the ceived one went and dug in the ground, and
thief would come, he would have watched hid his lord’s money. 19After a long time the
and not allowed his house to be broken into. lord of those servants came and settled ac
44 T herefore you also be ready, for the Son of
counts with them.
Man is coming at an hour you do not expect. 20 “So he who had received five talents
came and brought five other talents, say
The Faithful Servant and the Evil Servant ing, ‘Lord, you delivered to me five talents;
45 “Who then is a faithful and wise ser look, I have gained five more talents be
vant, whom his master made ruler over his sides them.’ 21His lord said to him, ‘Well
household, to give them food in due season? done, good and faithful servant; you were
46Blessed is that servant whom his master, faithful over a few things, I will make you
when he comes, will find so doing. 47As ruler over many things. Enter into the joy
suredly, I say to you that he will make him of your lord.’ 22He also who had received
ruler over all his goods. 48But if that evil two talents came and said, ‘Lord, you deliv
servant says in his heart, ‘My master is de ered to me two talents; look, I have gained
laying his coming,’ a 49and begins to beat two more talents besides them.’ 23His lord
his fellow servants, and to eat and drink said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful
with the drunkards, 50 the master of that servant; you have been faithful over a few
servant will come on a day when he is not things, I will make you ruler over many
looking for him and at an hour that he is not things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’
aware of, 51and will cut him in two and ap 24 “Then he who had received the one
point him his portion with the hypocrites. talent came and said, ‘Lord, I knew you
There shall be weeping and gnashing of to be a hard man, reaping where you have
teeth. not sown, and gathering where you have
The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins 24:33 a Or He 24:36 a NU‑Text adds nor the
Son. 24:42 a NU‑Text reads day. 24:48 a NU‑
25 “‌ Then the kingdom of heaven shall Text omits his coming. 25:6 a NU‑Text omits
be likened to ten virgins who took is coming. 25:13 a NU‑Text omits the rest of
their lamps and went out to meet the bride this verse.

FIRST PROOFS
51 Matthew 26:3
not scattered seed. 25And I was afraid, and on His right hand, but the goats on the left.
went and hid your talent in the ground. 34 T hen the King will say to those on His
Look, there you have what is yours.’ right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Fa
26 “But his lord answered and said to ther, inherit the kingdom prepared for you
him, ‘You wicked and lazy servant, you from the foundation of the world: 35for I was
knew that I reap where I have not sown, hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty
and gather where I have not scattered seed. and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger
27So you ought to have deposited my mon and you took Me in; 36I was naked and you
ey with the bankers, and at my coming I clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I
would have received back my own with in was in prison and you came to Me.’
terest. 28So take the talent from him, and 37 “Then the righteous will answer Him,
give it to him who has ten talents. saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hun
29 ‘For to everyone who has, more will gry and feed You, or thirsty and give You
be given, and he will have abundance; but drink? 38 W hen did we see You a stranger
from him who does not have, even what he and take You in, or naked and clothe You?
has will be taken away. 30And cast the un 39 Or when did we see You sick, or in pris
profitable servant into the outer darkness. on, and come to You?’ 40And the King will
There will be weeping and gnashing of answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say
teeth.’ to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the
least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’
The Son of Man Will Judge the Nations 41“Then He will also say to those on the
31“When the Son of Man comes in His left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed,
glory, and all the holy a angels with Him, into the everlasting fire prepared for the
then He will sit on the throne of His glory. devil and his angels: 42for I was hungry and
32 All the nations will be gathered before you gave Me no food; I was thirsty and you
Him, and He will separate them one from gave Me no drink; 43I was a stranger and
another, as a shepherd divides his sheep you did not take Me in, naked and you did
from the goats. 33And He will set the sheep not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you
did not visit Me.’
44 “Then they also will answer Him, a
Quality, Not Quantity saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hun
Matt. 25:14–30 gry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick
or in prison, and did not minister to You?’
45 T hen He will answer them, saying, ‘As
Jesus’ parable of talents offers a vital lesson
on success. God measures our achievements suredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did
not by how much we have but by what we do not do it to one of the least of these, you did
with what He gives us. We are managers en- not do it to Me.’ 46And these will go away
into everlasting punishment, but the righ
trusted with resources and responsibilities. teous into eternal life.”
He evaluates whether we use those gifts to
obey and honor Him. Finding success as our The Plot to Kill Jesus
culture measures it, in terms of wealth, pres-
tige, power, or fame, doesn’t matter in the
long run. What counts is faithfully serving
26 ‌Now it came to pass, when Jesus had
finished all these sayings, that He
said to His disciples, 2“You know that after
the Lord (Matt. 25:21, 23). We must avoid the two days is the Passover, and the Son of
fate of the third servant, wasting our lives by Man will be delivered up to be crucified.”
failing to carry out our Master’s business. 3 T hen the chief priests, the scribes,a and
the elders of the people assembled at the
More: A talent was an immense amount of mon-
ey. Jesus told a different version of this parable 25:31 a NU‑Text omits holy. 25:44 a NU‑Text
in Luke 19:15–27. and M‑Text omit Him. 26:3 a NU‑Text omits
the scribes.
The Religious Power Broker

Matt. 26:3–5
As high priest, Caiaphas was the most influential member of the Sanhedrin, the ruling council
and supreme court of the Jews (see “The Council” at Acts 6:12–15). The position afforded him
vast authority but little job security. High priests served at Rome’s pleasure, and between 37 b.c.
and a.d. 67, the empire appointed no fewer than twenty-eight men to the position. The fact that
Caiaphas kept his job for eighteen years points to his uncommon political savvy. Some have
suggested it is evidence of a corrupt alliance with Rome.
Yet even if Caiaphas was in league with He feared that the slightest civil disorder
Rome, his goal was to protect Israel’s interests. would mobilize Roman troops and crush the

FIRST PROOFS
Matthew 26:4 52
palace of the high priest, who was called with the twelve. 21Now as they were eating,
Caiaphas, 4 and plotted to take Jesus by He said, “Assuredly, I say to you, one of you
trickery and kill Him. 5But they said, “Not will betray Me.”
during the feast, lest there be an uproar 22 And they were exceedingly sorrow
among the people.” ful, and each of them began to say to Him,
“Lord, is it I?”
The Anointing at Bethany 23 He answered and said, “He who
6And when Jesus was in Bethany at the dipped his hand with Me in the dish will
house of Simon the leper, 7a woman came betray Me. 24 T he Son of Man indeed goes
to Him having an alabaster flask of very just as it is written of Him, but woe to that
costly fragrant oil, and she poured it on His man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed!
head as He sat at the table. 8But when His It would have been good for that man if he
disciples saw it, they were indignant, say had not been born.”
ing, “Why this waste? 9For this fragrant oil 25 T hen Judas, who was betraying Him,
might have been sold for much and given answered and said, “Rabbi, is it I?”
to the poor.” He said to him, “You have said it.”
10But when Jesus was aware of it, He
said to them, “Why do you trouble the wom Jesus Institutes the Lord’s Supper
an? For she has done a good work for Me. 26And as they were eating, Jesus took
11For you have the poor with you always,
12 bread, blesseda and broke it, and gave it
but Me you do not have always. For in to the disciples and said, “Take, eat; this is
pouring this fragrant oil on My body, she My body.”
did it for My burial. 13Assuredly, I say to 27 T hen He took the cup, and gave
you, wherever this gospel is preached in
the whole world, what this woman has done thanks, and gave it to them, saying, “Drink
will also be told as a memorial to her.” from it, all of you. 28For this is My blood of
the new a covenant, which is shed for many
Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus 26:26 a M‑Text reads gave thanks for.
14 T hen
one of the twelve, called Judas 26:28 a NU‑Text omits new.
Iscariot, went to the chief priests 15and said,
“What are you willing to give me if I deliver
Him to you?” And they counted out to him Waste or Worship?
thirty pieces of silver. 16So from that time Matt. 26:6–13
he sought opportunity to betray Him.
The woman who anointed Jesus was Mary,
Jesus Celebrates Passover with His Lazarus’s sister (see “Funeral Preparations” at
Disciples John 12:1–8). As she poured oil on His head,
17Now on the first day of the Feast of what the disciples saw as waste, the Lord saw
the Unleavened Bread the disciples came to as worship. The tension between the two still
Jesus, saying to Him, “Where do You want exists. Christians argue over whether it is
us to prepare for You to eat the Passover?” right to spend millions on new church facili-
18 And He said, “Go into the city to a
ties when so many poor and homeless sleep
certain man, and say to him, ‘The Teach in the streets. See also “Sparing No Expense”
er says, “My time is at hand; I will keep at 1 Kings 5:5.
the Passover at your house with My disci
ples.” ’ ” More: Spikenard was a fragrant, costly oil im-
19 So the disciples did as Jesus had di
ported from Asia. See “The Fragrance of Love”
rected them; and they prepared the Pass at Song 1:12–14. Mary’s act was the first step in
over. preparing Jesus’ body for the grave.
20 W hen evening had come, He sat down

nation. When Jesus drew vast crowds and per- Caiaphas was stunned when the movement
formed astounding miracles— especially His that he thought he had killed came roaring
raising of Lazarus from the dead—Caiaphas back to life. The apostles began preaching the
decided that He would have to be done away gospel in Jerusalem and all over the Roman
with (John 11:45–50). empire with great success. Like Jesus, they per-
This led to a well-conceived plot in which formed miracles that drew the people’s atten-
Jesus was arrested, brought to an illegal tion and prompted a response to the saving
trial, and confronted with false evidence message about Christ (Acts 3:1—4:13).
(Matt. 26:3, 4, 57–68). By playing Pilate (the
Roman governor) and Herod (the Jewish king) Think About It: There are always more players
against each other, and by encouraging a mob than you in any encounter. When are you tempted
mentality from the people (Luke 22:66— to be a power broker, just to win? When can politi-
23:25), Caiaphas successfully orchestrated cal actions be way to truly work for good?
Jesus’ conviction and execution.

FIRST PROOFS
53 Matthew 26:56
for the remission of sins. 29But I say to you, The Prayer in the Garden
I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from 36 T hen Jesus came with them to a place
now on until that day when I drink it new called Gethsemane, and said to the dis
with you in My Father’s kingdom.” ciples, “Sit here while I go and pray over
30And when they had sung a hymn, they
there.” 37And He took with Him Peter and
went out to the Mount of Olives. the two sons of Zebedee, and He began to
be sorrowful and deeply distressed. 38 T hen
Jesus Predicts Peter’s Denial He said to them, “My soul is exceedingly
31 T hen Jesus said to them, “All of you sorrowful, even to death. Stay here and
will be made to stumble because of Me this watch with Me.”
night, for it is written: 39He went a little farther and fell on His
face, and prayed, saying, “O My Father,
‘I will strike the Shepherd, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me;
And the sheep of the flock will be nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.”
scattered.’ a 40 T hen He came to the disciples and
32But after I have been raised, I will go be found them sleeping, and said to Peter,
fore you to Galilee.” “What! Could you not watch with Me one
33 Peter answered and said to Him, hour? 41 Watch and pray, lest you enter into
“Even if all are made to stumble because temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but
of You, I will never be made to stumble.” the flesh is weak.”
34 Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say 42 Again, a second time, He went away
to you that this night, before the rooster and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if this
crows, you will deny Me three times.” cup cannot pass away from Me unlessa I
35Peter said to Him, “Even if I have to drink it, Your will be done.” 43And He came
die with You, I will not deny You!” and found them asleep again, for their eyes
And so said all the disciples. were heavy.
44 So He left them, went away again,
and prayed the third time, saying the same
Judas’s Betrayal words. 45 Then He came to His disciples and
Matt. 26:14–16 said to them, “Are you still sleeping and
resting? Behold, the hour is at hand, and the
The New Testament never mentions Judas Son of Man is being betrayed into the hands
of sinners. 46Rise, let us be going. See, My
Iscariot without a reminder that he was betrayer is at hand.”
the man who betrayed Jesus (for example,
Matt. 10:4; Mark 3:19; John 12:4). To this day Betrayal and Arrest in Gethsemane
the name Judas is a symbol of betrayal. 47And while He was still speaking, be
The Gospels suggest that Judas was mo- hold, Judas, one of the twelve, with a great
tivated to betray Jesus by his greed. But the multitude with swords and clubs, came
amount that the priests paid him to hand from the chief priests and elders of the
over Jesus—thirty pieces of silver—was rel- people.
atively small. Besides, he had access to the 48Now His betrayer had given them a
disciples’ money box and apparently was sign, saying, “Whomever I kiss, He is the
known for helping himself to its contents One; seize Him.” 49Immediately he went up
(12:6). to Jesus and said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and
Some have suggested that Judas believed kissed Him.
50But J esus said to him, “Friend, why
that his betrayal would force Jesus to assert
His true power and overthrow the Romans. have you come?”
Others say that Judas became convinced Then they came and laid hands on J esus
that Jesus was a false Messiah and that the and took Him. 51And suddenly, one of those
true Messiah was yet to come. Or perhaps who were with J esus stretched out his hand
he was upset by Jesus’ seemingly casual at- and drew his sword, struck the servant of
titude toward the Law and didn’t like how the high priest, and cut off his ear.
52But Jesus said to him, “Put your sword
He associated with sinners or apparently vi- in its place, for all who take the sword will
olated the Sabbath. No one can say exactly perisha by the sword. 53Or do you think that
why Judas turned against Jesus. He remains I cannot now pray to My Father, and He will
a shadowy figure, unknown by his compan- provide Me with more than twelve legions
ions, unfaithful to his Lord, unmourned in of angels? 54How then could the Scriptures
his death. be fulfilled, that it must happen thus?”
55In that hour Jesus said to the multi
More: After Judas took his own life, his death tudes, “Have you come out, as against a
was ironically memorialized with the purchase robber, with swords and clubs to take Me?
of a plot of ground for a cemetery. The New I sat daily with you, teaching in the temple,
Testament mentions several other Judases. One and you did not seize Me. 56But all this was
was a brother of Jesus and probably the author
of the Book of Jude (Matt. 13:55; see also the 26:31 a Zechariah 13:7 26:42 a NU‑Text
introduction to Jude). reads if this may not pass away unless.
26:52 a M‑Text reads die.

FIRST PROOFS
Matthew 26:57 54
done that the Scriptures of the prophets against Jesus to put Him to death, 60 but
might be fulfilled.” found none. Even though many false wit
Then all the disciples forsook Him and nesses came forward, they found none.a
fled. But at last two false witnessesb came for
ward 61and said, “This fellow said, ‘I am
Jesus Faces the Sanhedrin able to destroy the temple of God and to
57And those who had laid hold of Jesus build it in three days.’ ”
62 And the high priest arose and said to
led Him away to Caiaphas the high priest,
where the scribes and the elders were as Him, “Do You answer nothing? What is it
sembled. 58But Peter followed Him at a dis these men testify against You?” 63But Jesus
tance to the high priest’s courtyard. And kept silent. And the high priest answered
he went in and sat with the servants to see and said to Him, “I put You under oath by
the end. the living God: Tell us if You are the Christ,
59 Now the chief priests, the elders, a the Son of God!”
64 Jesus said to him, “It is as you said.
and all the council sought false testimony
Nevertheless, I say to you, hereafter you
will see the Son of Man sitting at the right
Unlikely Leaders hand of the Power, and coming on the
clouds of heaven.”
Matt. 26:35–74 65 T hen the high priest tore his clothes,
saying, “He has spoken blasphemy! What
Jesus was close to the end of His earthly min- further need do we have of witnesses?
istry. His life was about to suffer an agonizing Look, now you have heard His blasphemy!
finish at the hands of His enemies. Those He 66 W hat do you think?”
had trained to succeed Him would assume They answered and said, “He is deserv
leadership of His new movement, a transi- ing of death.”
67 T hen they spat in His face and beat
tion that would prove near catastrophic.
During those final days and hours, His fol- Him; and others struck Him with the palms
lowers began to fall apart: of their hands, 68 saying, “Prophesy to us,
Christ! Who is the one who struck You?”
• Bravado caused them to overstate their
commitment (Matt. 26:35). When the Peter Denies Jesus, and Weeps Bitterly
moment of decision came, they deserted 69Now Peter sat outside in the court
their Lord (26:56). yard. And a servant girl came to him,
• When Jesus asked them to keep watch saying, “You also were with J esus of Gal
with Him during His final hours of ilee.”
freedom, they twice fell asleep (26:40, 70But he denied it before them all, say
43). ing, “I do not know what you are saying.”
• As Jesus endured mockery and beatings, 71And when he had gone out to the gate
Peter, who had led the others in vowing way, another girl saw him and said to those
their loyalty (26:35), denied even knowing who were there, “This fellow also was with
his Master (26:69–75). Jesus of Nazareth.”
72But again he denied with an oath, “I
The disciples hardly seem to have had do not know the Man!”
what was needed to continue the work that 73And a little later those who stood by
Jesus began. But even after an experience of came up and said to Peter, “Surely you also
excruciating suffering and glorious resurrec- are one of them, for your speech betrays
tion, Jesus returned to these same followers you.”
and announced that they were still His cho- 74 T hen he began to curse and swear,
sen leaders to continue His work. He even saying, “I do not know the Man!”
affirmed His commitment to stick with them Immediately a rooster crowed. 75And
to the end (28:19, 20). Peter remembered the word of Jesus who
Jesus’ treatment of the disciples shows had said to him, “Before the rooster crows,
that failure is not an unforgivable act. In fact, you will deny Me three times.” So he went
it seems to be necessary to create character. out and wept bitterly.
It is not meant to eliminate but to transform
the weak and wavering. Christ does not look Jesus Handed Over to Pontius Pilate
for perfect people but for faithful followers
who will experience His forgiveness, and 27 ‌ hen morning came, all the chief
W
priests and elders of the people plot
ted against Jesus to put Him to death. 2And
move on to learn and grow.
when they had bound Him, they led Him
More: The Twelve were all men, but women away and delivered Him to Pontiusa Pilate
also played an important role in Jesus’ life and the governor.
ministry. See “The Women Who Followed Jesus” 26:59 a NU‑Text omits the elders. 26:60 a NU‑
at Luke 8:1–3. God has always valued devo- Text puts a comma after but found none, does
tion over perfection. See “The Hall of Faith” at not capitalize Even, and omits they found
Heb. 11:1– 40. none. b NU‑Text omits false witnesses.
27:2 a NU‑Text omits Pontius.

FIRST PROOFS
55 Matthew 27:42
Judas Hangs Himself But they cried out all the more, saying,
3 T hen Judas, His betrayer, seeing that “Let Him be crucified!”
24 W hen Pilate saw that he could not
He had been condemned, was remorseful
and brought back the thirty pieces of silver prevail at all, but rather that a tumult was
to the chief priests and elders, 4 saying, “I rising, he took water and washed his hands
have sinned by betraying innocent blood.” before the multitude, saying, “I am inno
And they said, “What is that to us? You cent of the blood of this just Person.a You
see to it!” see to it.”
5 T hen he threw down the pieces of sil 25And all the people answered and said,
ver in the temple and departed, and went “His blood be on us and on our children.”
26 T hen he released Barabbas to them;
and hanged himself.
6 But the chief priests took the silver and when he had scourged Jesus, he deliv
pieces and said, “It is not lawful to put them ered Him to be crucified.
into the treasury, because they are the price
of blood.” 7And they consulted together and The Soldiers Mock Jesus
27 T hen the soldiers of the governor
bought with them the potter’s field, to bury
strangers in. 8 T herefore that field has been took Jesus into the Praetorium and gath
called the Field of Blood to this day. ered the whole garrison around Him. 28And
9 T hen was fulfilled what was spoken they stripped Him and put a scarlet robe
by Jeremiah the prophet, saying, “And on Him. 29 W hen they had twisted a crown
they took the thirty pieces of silver, the of thorns, they put it on His head, and a
value of Him who was priced, whom they reed in His right hand. And they bowed the
of the children of Israel priced, 10 and gave knee before Him and mocked Him, saying,
them for the potter’s field, as the Lord di “Hail, King of the Jews!” 30 T hen they spat
rected me.” a on Him, and took the reed and struck Him
on the head. 31And when they had mocked
Jesus Faces Pilate Him, they took the robe off Him, put His
11Now J own clothes on Him, and led Him away to
esus stood before the governor. be crucified.
And the governor asked Him, saying, “Are
You the King of the Jews?” The King on a Cross
Jesus said to him, “It is as you say.” 32Now as they came out, they found a
12 And while He was being accused by the
man of Cyrene, Simon by name. Him they
chief priests and elders, He answered noth compelled to bear His cross. 33And when
ing. they had come to a place called Golgotha,
13 T hen Pilate said to Him, “Do You not
that is to say, Place of a Skull, 34they gave
hear how many things they testify against Him sour a wine mingled with gall to drink.
You?” 14But He answered him not one word, But when He had tasted it, He would not
so that the governor marveled g reatly. drink.
35 T hen they crucified Him, and divided
Taking the Place of Barabbas His garments, casting lots,a that it might be
15Now at the feast the governor was
fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet:
accustomed to releasing to the multitude
one prisoner whom they wished. 16And “They divided My garments among
at that time they had a notorious prisoner them,
called Barabbas.a 17 T herefore, when they And for My clothing they cast lots.” b
had gathered together, Pilate said to them, 36Sitting down, they kept watch over Him
“Whom do you want me to release to you? there. 37And they put up over His head the
Barabbas, or Jesus who is called Christ?” accusation written against Him:
18For he knew that they had handed Him
over because of envy. THIS IS JESUS THE KING
19 W hile he was sitting on the judgment OF THE JEWS.
seat, his wife sent to him, saying, “Have 38 T hen two robbers were crucified with
nothing to do with that just Man, for I have Him, one on the right and another on the
suffered many things today in a dream be left.
cause of Him.” 39And those who passed by blasphemed
20But the chief priests and elders per Him, wagging their heads 40 and saying,
suaded the multitudes that they should ask “You who destroy the temple and build it
for Barabbas and destroy J esus. 21 T he gov in three days, save Yourself! If You are the
ernor answered and said to them, “Which Son of God, come down from the cross.”
of the two do you want me to release to 41Likewise the chief priests also, mock
you?” ing with the scribes and elders,a said, 42“He
They said, “Barabbas!” saved others; Himself He cannot save. If
22Pilate said to them, “What then shall I
do with Jesus who is called Christ?” 27:10 a Jeremiah 32:6–9 27:16 a NU‑Text reads
Jesus Barabbas. 27:24 a NU‑Text omits just.
They all said to him, “Let Him be cru 27:34 a NU‑Text omits sour. 27:35 a NU‑Text
cified!” and M‑Text omit the rest of this verse. b Psalm
23 T hen the governor said, “Why, what
22:18 27:41 a M‑Text reads with the scribes,
evil has He done?” the Pharisees, and the elders.

FIRST PROOFS
Matthew 27:43 56
He is the King of Israel,a let Him now come cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eli, Eli,
down from the cross, and we will believe lama sabachthani?” that is, “My God, My
Him.b 43He trusted in God; let Him deliver God, why have You forsaken Me?” a
Him now if He will have Him; for He said, 47Some of those who stood there, when
‘I am the Son of God.’ ” they heard that, said, “This Man is calling
44 Even the robbers who were crucified for Elijah!” 48Immediately one of them ran
with Him reviled Him with the same thing. and took a sponge, filled it with sour wine
and put it on a reed, and offered it to Him
Jesus Dies on the Cross to drink.
45Now from the sixth hour until the
27:42 a NU‑Text reads He is the King of
ninth hour there was darkness over all Israel! b NU‑Text and M‑Text read we will
the land. 46And about the ninth hour Jesus believe in Him. 27:46 a Psalm 22:1
Ordinary People at the Cross

Matt. 27:32
Unlike many who rise to prominence, Jesus never lost touch with normal people. He did not
insulate Himself from difficulties by cushioning His life or associating only with the powerful,
wealthy, and privileged. His birth, life, and death involved very ordinary people.
Jesus surrounded Himself with people who prostitutes. During His final days and hours
had little social standing or influence. The an ordinary visitor to Jerusalem—a resident
events surrounding His birth involved a minor of northern Africa—was compelled to carry
priest and his barren wife, a small-town girl His cross. Others showed curiosity about Him,
and a poor carpenter, shepherds, an elder- demonstrated understanding and loyalty, or
ly woman, and three foreigners. His closest acted with compassion. These humble people
adult friends were fishermen, and He was were uniquely able to perceive His message
known for hanging out with tax collectors and about true values and needs.
Ordinary People Who Saw Jesus to the Cross

Simon the leper, once an Hosted Jesus as his houseguest (Matt. 26:6).
untouchable outcast
An unnamed woman (prob- Anointed Jesus’ head with expensive ointment (Matt. 26:7).
ably Mary of Bethany; see
“Mary’s Devotion” at John
11:2; compare 12:1–8)
An unnamed homeowner in Opened his home to Jesus and the Twelve for their last meal
Jerusalem together (Matt. 26:18).
The disciples, Jesus’ chosen Proclaimed their faith (Matt. 26:35) and joined Jesus in the Garden
successors from rural Galilee of Gethsemane during the final hours before His arrest (26:40,
43, 56).
An unnamed servant girl Asked Peter about his association with Jesus (Matt. 26:69).
Another girl in the crowd Also asked Peter about his relationship with Jesus (Matt. 26:71).
Unnamed crowd members Also inquired if Peter knew Jesus (Matt. 26:71).
Judas Betrayed Christ; later broke down with guilt and committed
suicide (Matt. 27:3–5).
Barabbas, a convicted criminal Was freed instead of Jesus because of a mob’s demands
(Matt. 27:16, 26).
Simon of Cyrene, a man in the Was conscripted to carry Jesus’ cross (Matt. 27:32).
crowd
Two dying thieves Were executed with Jesus (Matt. 27:38, 44).
An unnamed crowd member Offered Jesus a drink as He was in His death throes (Matt. 27:48).
An unnamed Roman centurion Observed that Jesus must be the Son of God (Matt. 27:54).
Some loyal women from Looked on from afar (Matt. 27:55, 56).
Galilee

FIRST PROOFS
57
Wealthy People in the New Testament

Matt. 27:57
Unlike Joseph of Arimathea, most of Jesus’ followers were not wealthy. But we can learn about
the dangers and disciplines of money from other wealthy people noted in the New Testament.
Having money is in itself not safe or dangerous, bad or good. But how we handle it can be. Then
and now, God calls His followers to use whatever we have at our disposal to show compassion,
mercy, and justice to all.
Person(s) How They Handled Their Lessons to Learn

Wealth
Zacchaeus the tax collector • Before faith, cheated citizens • Ill-gotten gain must be
(Luke 19:1–10) and abused the poor. repaid.
• After faith, repented and • God saves and changes
made restitution. us—all the way down to our
finances.
Joseph of Arimathea • Prepaid his own funeral. • Forsaking earthly treasures
(Matt. 27:57–61; Mark 15:42– • Donated his tomb for Jesus’ for the lasting kingdom of
46; Luke 23:50–53) burial. God will be rewarded.
Female supporters of Christ • Supported Jesus’ work. • Generosity should character-
(Luke 8:1–3*; 23:55—24:10; • Assisted in Jesus’ burial ize those who follow Jesus.
Mark 15:40; 16:1) (probably donated expensive
perfume).
Roman centurion who believed • Showed kindness toward the • Authentic love for others
(Matt. 8:5–13; Luke 7:1–5) Jews. shows in the things we do
• Paid for the construction of a and the projects we support.
synagogue.
• Showed compassion for his
ailing servant.
Rich young ruler (Matt. 19:16– • Unwilling to part with his • Those who cling to wealth
30; Mark 10:17–31; Luke wealth when tested by Jesus. find it
18:18–30) difficult or impossible to enter
God’s kingdom.
• Righteousness cannot be
earned and must be received
as a gift.
• “Many who are first will
be last, and the last first”
(Matt. 19:30).
Philemon (Philem. 1*) • Owned slaves and other • People are more valuable
property. than property.
• Was urged to forgive a run-
away slave and accept him as
a brother in Christ.
Joseph, called Barnabas (Acts • Sold land and gave the • Partnership in the gospel
4:36, 37*) proceeds to other followers means putting your money
of Jesus. at the disposal of fellow
believers in need.
Ananias and Sapphira (Acts • Sold land and tried to • God is not fooled by gracious
5:1*) deceive the church about appearances but sees the
the proceeds to gain a good heart and acts accordingly.
reputation.
Rich Christians disapproved of • Exploited the tendency • God favors those who are
by James (James 2:1–7) of people to cater to the rich in faith; they will inherit
wealthy. the kingdom.
• Dragged other Christians into
court and slandered Jesus.

FIRST PROOFS
Matthew 27:49 58
49 T he
rest said, “Let Him alone; let us Pilate Sets a Guard
see if Elijah will come to save Him.” 62 On the next day, which followed
50And Jesus cried out again with a loud
the Day of Preparation, the chief priests
voice, and yielded up His spirit. and Pharisees gathered together to Pi
51 T hen, behold, the veil of the temple
late, 63 saying, “Sir, we remember, while
was torn in two from top to bottom; and He was still alive, how that deceiver said,
the earth quaked, and the rocks were split, ‘After three days I will rise.’ 64 T herefore
52 and the graves were opened; and many
command that the tomb be made secure
bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep until the third day, lest His disciples come
were raised; 53and coming out of the graves by nighta and steal Him away, and say to
after His resurrection, they went into the the people, ‘He has risen from the dead.’ So
holy city and appeared to many. the last deception will be worse than the
54So when the centurion and those with
first.”
him, who were guarding J esus, saw the 65Pilate said to them, “You have a guard;
earthquake and the things that had hap go your way, make it as secure as you know
pened, they feared greatly, saying, “Truly how.” 66 So they went and made the tomb
this was the Son of God!” secure, sealing the stone and setting the
55And many women who followed Jesus
guard.
from Galilee, ministering to Him, were
there looking on from afar, 56among whom He Is Risen
were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of
James and Joses,a and the mother of Zebe
dee’s sons. 28 ‌ ow after the Sabbath, as the first
N
day of the week began to dawn, Mary
Magdalene and the other Mary came to see
Jesus Buried in Joseph’s Tomb the tomb. 2And behold, there was a great
57Now when evening had come, there earthquake; for an angel of the Lord de
scended from heaven, and came and rolled
came a rich man from Arimathea, named back the stone from the door,a and sat on it.
Joseph, who himself had also become a 3His countenance was like lightning, and
disciple of Jesus. 58 T his man went to Pi his clothing as white as snow. 4 And the
late and asked for the body of Jesus. Then guards shook for fear of him, and became
Pilate commanded the body to be given to like dead men.
him. 59 W hen Joseph had taken the body, he 5But the angel answered and said to the
wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, 60and laid women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that
it in his new tomb which he had hewn out of you seek Jesus who was crucified. 6He is
the rock; and he rolled a large stone against
the door of the tomb, and departed. 61And 27:56 a NU‑Text reads Joseph. 27:64 a NU‑Text
Mary Magdalene was there, and the other omits by night. 28:2 a NU‑Text omits from
Mary, sitting opposite the tomb. the door.
Lydia (Acts 16:14*, 40) • Hosted the first European • We should use our homes
church in her home. and resources to accomplish
God’s purposes.
Cornelius the centurion (Acts • Generous to the poor. • Fear of God should prompt
10:1*) • Sought out Peter concerning us to admit our need for a
the faith. Savior.
The Ethiopian treasurer (Acts • Traveled to Jerusalem to • Stewardship of money and
8:26–40) nurture his belief in God. study of Scripture go hand
• Invited Philip to explain in hand—as do business
more about the faith. trips and opportunities for
worship.
Simon the sorcerer (Acts • Craved spiritual power and • God’s gifts cannot be bought.
8:9–25) thought it could be bottled
and sold.
*See individual profiles at texts indicated.
More: Wealth is a major topic in the New Testament. Jesus warned about its dangers. Read Matt. 6:24;
Mark 10:17–31; and Luke 12:13–21. Likewise, Paul challenged believers to use their resources in a
Christlike way. See “Christians and Money” at 1 Tim. 6:6–19.

FIRST PROOFS
59 Matthew 28:12
not here; for He is risen, as He said. Come, worshiped Him. 10 T hen J esus said to them,
see the place where the Lord lay. 7And go “Do not be afraid. Go and tell My brethren
quickly and tell His disciples that He is ris to go to Galilee, and there they will see Me.”
en from the dead, and indeed He is going
before you into Galilee; there you will see The Soldiers Are Bribed
Him. Behold, I have told you.” 11Now while they were going, behold,
8 So they went out quickly from the tomb
some of the guard came into the city and re
with fear and great joy, and ran to bring His ported to the chief priests all the things that
disciples word.
had happened. 12 W hen they had assembled
with the elders and consulted together, they
The Women Worship the Risen Lord
9And as they went to tell His disciples,a gave a large sum of money to the soldiers,
behold, Jesus met them, saying, “Rejoice!” 28:9 a NU‑Text omits the first clause of this
So they came and held Him by the feet and verse.
Surprised by God
Matt. 28:6
The women who went to the tomb on the first Easter Sunday were exceedingly frightened by
what they found—or rather, by what they did not find. The tomb was empty!
God understands how it feels when He sends miraculous demonstrations of His power, stir-
startling spiritual events. He helps us over- ring promises, and the enormous comfort of
come our fears and sort out whatever comes His Word. God appreciates the impact of spir-
our way. He sent an angel to comfort and en- itual light suddenly shining in a dark world.
lighten Mary and Mary Magdalene about the He helps us overcome the shock not only of
truth of Christ’s resurrection. He sent an angel what He has spoken but also the fact that He
to Joseph when he was troubled by Mary’s in- has spoken.
explicable pregnancy (Matt. 1:18–25). Will we respond to His message? No matter
Many other people in Scripture were no how uncomfortable we may feel about new
less troubled by the occurrence of spiritual adventures in faith, we dare not avoid them.
events and realities. The help they received God opens up these uneasy places in our lives
from God included messages from angels. But to draw us to Him.
He also sent other people, dramatic and even
To Every Nation
Matt. 28:19
Jesus sent His followers to make disciples of all the nations (ethnē, “peoples”; Matt. 28:19). That
mandate may seem obvious to us who know that two thousand years of Christian outreach have
been based on this and similar passages. Christianity has spread from its Middle Eastern roots to
become a global religion followed by roughly one-third of the world’s population.
Modern technology would seem to make [nations] . . . and in His name Gentiles will
expanding that outreach even further a rel- trust” (Matt. 12:14–21). Yet now the disciples
atively simple task. In many ways, however, had a hard time believing their Lord’s words.
we still resemble Jesus’ original disciples. Could He really be interested in all the na-
They wanted a local hero, a Messiah just for tions? They certainly were not.
Israel, one who would keep their customs and It is easy to nod in agreement with the idea
confirm their prejudices. They were no doubt that Jesus cares for the whole world. But it is
stunned by the scope and implications of the not as easy to blend real people from varying
cross-cultural vision that Jesus presented. He backgrounds. Even so, what a good adventure
was more than the King of the Jews. He was it becomes when we intentionally obey God in
the global Christ, the Savior of the entire building friendships.
world. Culture, after all, is the key. Jesus told His
Jesus had tried to open their eyes to this Galilean followers to make disciples, and
fact since the start of His ministry. Matthew they did—Jewish disciples. They experienced
recorded again and again His work among profound culture shock when the Holy Spirit
Gentiles (for example, Matt. 8:10; 15:24). He brought new groups into the burgeoning
even cited Isaiah 42:1– 4, highlighting that church, including Hellenist disciples (Acts
Jesus would “declare justice to the Gentiles 6:1– 7), Samaritan disciples (8:4– 25), and

FIRST PROOFS
Matthew 28:13 60
13 saying, “Tell them, ‘His disciples came at saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some
night and stole Him away while we slept.’ doubted.
14 And if this comes to the governor’s ears, 18And J esus came and spoke to them,
we will appease him and make you secure.” saying, “All authority has been given to Me
15So they took the money and did as they in heaven and on earth. 19Go thereforea and
were instructed; and this saying is com make disciples of all the nations, baptizing
monly reported among the Jews until this them in the name of the Father and of the
day. Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20teaching them
to observe all things that I have command
The Great Commission ed you; and lo, I am with you always, even
16 T hen the eleven disciples went away to the end of the age.” Amen.a
into Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus 28:19 a M‑Text omits therefore. 28:20 a NU‑
had appointed for them. 17 W hen they Text omits Amen.

eventually Gentile disciples from a variety of It’s the same difficulty that the original disci-
backgrounds (10:1—11:18; 15:1–21). As the ples faced at the inauguration of the Christian
gospel spread to people of different cultures, movement: not merely to acknowledge but to
there was always the danger of ethnic and ra- act on, and enjoy, the fact that Jesus truly is
cial factions going their separate ways. Paul Lord of all the nations.
urged Christians to pursue unity in the body
of Christ and charity among the peoples of the More: God’s plan to make disciples of people
world (see “One People” at Rom. 11:13–24). throughout the world was part of His overall,
The bulk of new disciples today are non- long-term objective of making His name great
Caucasian and non-Western. Not surprisingly, among the nations. See “Great Among the Na-
they bring widely different cultural perspec- tions” at Mal. 1:11. The spread of the gospel to the
tives into the church. One of the greatest chal- rest of the world began just a few days after Jesus
lenges we will face as we move together into spoke the words recorded in Matt. 28:19.
the future is to delight in these differences.

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T HE NE W T ESTA MENT

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The Gospel According to

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THE LAND OF LEBANON

Sea SAMARIA PEREA

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1 ‌ he book of the genealogy of ­Jesus

Matthew Genealogies may seem irrelevant, but they

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The Women in Jesus’ Genealogy

Tamar (Matt. 1:3; Gen. 38:1–­30) • Migrated to Israel with her mother-­in-­law

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A Month-­L ong Journey with Jesus

Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5 Day 6

Day 7 Day 8 Day 9 Day 10 Day 11

Day 12 Day 13 Day 14 Day 15 Day 16

continued on next page 

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 continued from previous page

Day 17 Day 18 Day 19 Day 20 Day 21

Day 27 Day 28 Day 29 Day 30 Day 31

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Grieving the Loss of a Child

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John Baptizes Jesus The account of Jesus’ temptation in Matthew

The Purpose of Strength Money Temptations

If we think that strength is nothing more As we struggle to follow God in a materialistic

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The King Declares His Kingdom

Who Is the King? When Is the Kingdom?

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The Way Up Is Down

Salt and Light

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The Sermon on the Mount

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Possible location of the

The Sea of the Sermon

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You Have Heard that It Was Said

An Eye for an Eye

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 continued from previous page

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Judge Not 8 ‌ hen He had come down from the

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A Savior for the Whole World

Jesus’ Roots a group of foreigners who first came looking

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The Cost of Discipleship to the country of the Gergesenes,a there

 continued from previous page

Person or Group Jesus’ Response

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Jesus Forgives and Heals a Paralytic

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Two Blind Men Healed The Compassion of Jesus

A Mute Man Speaks

Jesus’ Urban Ministry

Some people imagine Jesus spending His en-

1 ‌ he book of the genealogy of Jesus

Tamar (Matt. 1:3; Gen. 38:1–30) • Migrated to Israel with her mother-in-law

A Month-L ong Journey with Jesus

horse. Rather than walking arm-in-arm with ro

1. To support the Levites, who were (Gen. 14:17–20) as an expression of