Matthew 12:1-8: Jesus Lord of the Harvest

Matthew 12:1-8 MKJV At that time Jesus went through the grain fields on the Sabbath day. And His disciples were hungry, and began to pluck the heads of grain and to eat. (2) But when the Pharisees saw, they said to Him, Behold, your disciples do that which it is not lawful to do on the Sabbath day. (3) But He said to them, Have you not read what David did when he was hungry, and those who were with him, (4) how he entered into the house of God and ate the showbread, which was not lawful for him to eat, nor for those who were with him, but only for the priests? (5) Or have you not read in the Law that on the Sabbath days the priests in the temple profane the Sabbath and are blameless? (6) But I say to you that One greater than the temple is in this place. (7) But if you had known what this is, “I desire mercy and not sacrifice,” you would not have condemned those who are not guilty. (8) For the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.

It was impossible to hid along the narrow road with waist high fields of maturing golden wheat growing on both sides. Along the flat road, each group could easily see exactly what the other was doing. The Pharisees watched Jesus and His disciples as some of them strayed to the side now and again to pluck a hand full of grain to eat as a quick snack on their journey.

Joseph counted it as a blessing the moment he was informed his turn had come to follow Jesus, watch, listen, and report back all of His actions. He counted it a double blessing when he realized he was going to observe Jesus during the Sabbath.

Joseph had heard Jesus speak before, but now he had the opportunity to discuss His sermons with some of his counter parts of his faith. He looked forward to hearing and learning from their comments at the moment they heard Jesus speak. He had hoped their comments would not be the same as the rehearsed reports he had been listening to over the past months.

It was difficult for Joseph to find others who shared his view of the scriptures. He believed they contained a much deeper meaning and could lead to a much closer relationship with God than what he had been taught. He was fascinated when he heard Jesus speak. His words opened up new meaning to many of the scriptures Joseph had been studying. It seemed whenever he heard Jesus speak, a flood of scripture flowed through his mind supporting the subject discussed. He wondered if the same would happen today.

Some of the Pharisees began commenting about Jesus’ disciples plucking wheat. One questioned, “couldn’t that be considered working on the Sabbath?” Another answered, “they are separating the wheat from the chaff. No one in their right mind would perform such a task, on an great, or small scale on the Sabbath.”

Joseph listened to a number of comments, and considered each. Once it appeared they were finished, he spoke up. “There are a number of instructions concerning gleaning in the books of Moses, but I do not remember one putting a restriction on the Sabbath. Don’t the poor also hunger on the Sabbath?” One of the Pharisees spoke up, “this is not a matter of eating, it is a matter of working on the Sabbath. It is so plain to understand. Well, if you don’t understand, I am sure even Jesus can explain it to you.” The Pharisee shouted at Jesus, “your disciples do that which it is not lawful to do on the Sabbath day.” With a big smile on His face Jesus turned to face them and shouted back, “Have you not read what David did when he was hungry, and those who were with him, how he entered into the house of God and ate the showbread, which was not lawful for him to eat, nor for those who were with him, but only for the priests?”

The group of Pharisees were just as surprised as confused at Jesus’ answer. The first Pharisee commented, “what type of answer is that? That’s not an answer at all. He is avoiding the subject again.” Another questioned, “why was David allowed to eat the showbread? Maybe this is a test to see if we can answer the question.” The Pharisees agreed, Jesus was looking for an answer and they had to admit, they had no idea.

After the Pharisees gave the question some thought, and a few half hearted suggestions to find the answer, Joseph offered a suggestion. “There is a message in the book of the law which may answer this question. It says, “Those born in the priest’s house and a soul a priest buys is allowed to eat of it.”" (Leviticus 22:11) The others asked Joseph how that answered the question. The first question presented was, “how could you suggest a priest, any priest ever purchased David, king of Israel?”

Before Joseph could answer, Jesus shouted back another question to them. “Or have you not read in the Law that on the Sabbath days the priests in the temple profane the Sabbath and are blameless?” The Pharisees began to take this personally, even though they did not see eye to eye with the priests, they found it difficult to support any attack on them by Jesus.

Before getting too excited one Pharisee agreed. “The priests do perform work on the Sabbath. As a matter of fact, it may be the only day they actually work.” This brought a chuckle from the group. The Pharisee continued, “I think Jesus is actually referring to a circumcision. By law it is done when the child is eight days old no matter what the day.”

Joseph’s eyes lit up. It seems he had not put these two verses together until this day. His excitement was so overwhelming, he didn’t stop to consider the other Pharisees had their minds set on proving Jesus wrong, and not answering His question. He spoke up, “In the book of Leviticus, Moses recorded instructions for preparing and baking the showbread for the table on the Sabbath.” (Leviticus 24:5-8)

One of the Pharisees questioned, “how does that profane the Sabbath?” Joseph asked, “don’t you see? The showbread is baked on the Sabbath. You shall kindle no fire throughout your living places upon the Sabbath day.” (Exodus 35:3 MKJV) The priests are lighting a fire on the Sabbath.

Looking at Jesus walking down the road, Joseph thought to himself how He had presented a number of questions, and how they turned out to be related in a way he had never considered. The question about David eating, and the priests profaning the Sabbath both pointed to the bread prepared for God. He knew there must be a deeper meaning to the bread he still did not understand.

As the Pharisees continued speculating on the answer, they did not notice Jesus had stopped and they were almost upon Him. At the proper moment Jesus added, “But I say to you that One greater than the temple is in this place. But if you had known what this is, I desire mercy and not sacrifice, you would not have condemned those who are not guilty. For the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.” As soon as He finished, Jesus turned and continued on His way. Joseph repeated and continued the texts, “For I desired mercy and not sacrifice, and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.” Hosea 6:6. There was something in Jesus’ eyes that caught their attention and touched their heart. Something that made them think.

The Pharisees stood on the road watching Jesus walk away as each one contemplated the matter in his own mind, how each had taken mercy for granted. How they had known about and participated in the marketing of sacrificial animals. For some of them, it was the first time they had considered any of these matters in relationship to mercy, but there the message was in the texts, “I desired mercy and not sacrifice.” The words which really cut to the bone were, “the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.” Since this was written such a long time ago they questioned if God knew about this system before it was introduced?

When Jesus said, “One greater than the temple is in this place. But if you had known what this is, I desire mercy and not sacrifice, you would not have condemned those who are not guilty,” He was not referring to the past, but the future. Jesus was referring to prophecies recorded in Ezekiel.

Ezekiel 22:26 MKJV Her priests have broken My Law and have defiled My holy things. They have put no difference between the holy and the common, and have not taught between the unclean and the clean, and havehidden their eyes from My Sabbaths, and I am defiled among them.

Ezekiel 23:38 MKJV And yet they have done this to Me: They have defiled My sanctuary in that day, and have profaned My Sabbaths.

The temple Jesus referred to was Himself. “But He spoke of the temple of His body. Therefore when He had risen from the dead, His disciples remembered that He had said this to them, and they believed the Scripture and the word which Jesus had said.” (John 2:21-22 MKJV)

The Sabbath Jesus referred to was the Sabbath after His death when the priest defiled the Sabbath, not by their customs, forbidding contact with a gentile before the Sabbath, but by requiring the Roman guard to work on the Sabbath.

And on the next day, which was after the Preparation, the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered to Pilate, saying, Sir, we remember that that deceiver said, while He was living, After three days I will rise again. Then command that the tomb be made secure until the third day, lest his disciples come by night and steal him away and say to the people, He has risen from the dead. So the last error will be worse than the first. Pilate said to them, You have a watch. Go and make it as secure as you can. And going they made the tomb secure, sealing the stone along with the guard.  (Matthew 27:62-66 MKJV)

Jesus used a simple question as an opportunity to teach a number of lessons. Because the answer to their question was still in the future, Jesus had to explain it in a manner that encouraged the Pharisees to study the proper scriptures. Jesus was the priest who purchased David, and all His followers with His blood. Because David was purchased by a priest, Jesus the High Priest, he was allowed to eat the showbread.

Jesus wanted the Pharisees to study all of the services performed by the priests according to the books of Moses. He wanted them to see and understand the services the priests were supposed to live by and the lessons they taught including, washing of the feet and hands at the laver, the importance of the sacrifice without blemish, and the significance of the blood. Each of these pointed to Christ’s sacrifice. Jesus knew there was hope for the Pharisees if they willing sought the truth in the scriptures.

Matthew 11:20-30: Jesus rebukes the cities

Matthew 11:20-30 MKJV Then He began to upbraid the cities in which most of His mighty works were done, because they did not repent. (21) Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the powerful acts which were done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes! (22) But I say to you, It shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon in the day of judgment than for you. (23) And you, Capernaum, who are exalted to the heaven, shall be brought down to hell. For if the mighty works which have been done in you had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day. (24) But I say to you, it shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom in the day of judgment than for you. (25) At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank You, O Father, Lord of Heaven and earth, because You have hidden these things from the sophisticated and cunning, and revealed them to babes. (26) Even so, Father, for so it seemed good in Your sight. (27) All things are delivered to Me by My Father. And no one knows the Son except the Father. Nor does anyone know the Father except the Son, and the one to whom the Son will reveal Him. (28) Come to Me all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. (29) Take My yoke on you and learn of Me, for I am meek and lowly in heart, and you shall find rest to your souls. (30) For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.

Also see Mark 7:3-16

Large crowds gathered around Jesus whenever He preached in the countryside, but things were different in the cities. He was nearly thrown from a cliff by an angry mob when He preached His first sermon in a synagogue in His hometown. The trend continued when Jesus spent weeks traveling from city to city preaching the kingdom of Heaven, and spreading God’s pure and simple message of love and forgiveness.

To the disciples one city after another began to look alike. They wondered why the Master did not seem to notice the difference between the country and the cities. In the countryside people came with food to share. In the cities everything demanded a price. The people in the country were polite and orderly. They gathered in small groups, sitting quietly upon the grass, leaving ample room for others with a need to approach the Teacher and Healer. The children were well attended by neighbors and relatives. The city crowds acted quite the opposite where crowds pressed the Master. People pushed and shoved to gain access to Jesus. Many of them came asking questions having nothing to do with the subject Jesus taught, but asked Jesus to judge trivial matters between neighbors or family members. The children often ran around out of control, many of them fighting, or taking advantage of the crowds using the large number of people as cover to steal from individuals and local merchants.

When Jesus healed in the country, shouts of praise echoed from hills and through the valleys. Inside the congested cities, praises were often drowned out by the chatter of the crowds.

Jesus’ sermons in the cities were often attended by a large number of priests, Pharisees, and scribes, where they felt more secure. The rude crowds gave them with a sense of boldness to question Jesus’ teaching. They felt it was their duty to defend the traditions and doctrines Jesus’ teaching challenged, like washing hands before eating, which is an important health issue, but was perceived as a religious necessity by the priests. The simple acts of washing hands, cups and bowls had been turned into religious rituals, giving people the impression these acts were vital requirements some how related to their salvation, and a necessary duty to God. In reality, these traditions created divisions between the classes as well as Jews and gentiles. Jesus made it clear, the Jews had rejected God’s laws in favor of their traditions.

A sad look fell upon Jesus’ face as He closed His eyes to pray for strength to deliver the message He had been given by the Spirit of God. It was a struggle inside the Son of man between the love He had and the warning He had to deliver. His mind went over every detail of the past weeks. He remembered every person He had healed, every sermon He had preached, and every question answered. In His mind He pictured the expressions on the faces of those who believed, and the doubt in the eyes of those who remained skeptical.

Jesus hung His head low as He prayed. At last he raised His eyes to the people in front of Him. His eyes now gave a piecing glare as He scanned the faces, reading the heart of each individual. His muscles tensed, His throat tightened as those near the front could see His Adam’s apple quiver. Jesus let out a long sigh before He began to speak. “Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the powerful acts which were done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes!” The disciples thought about the prophecies pronounced against Tyre in the book of Ezekiel, describing how they placed their trust in their riches. Jesus continued, “And you, Capernaum, who are exalted to the heaven, shall be brought down to hell. For if the mighty works which have been done in you had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day. But I say to you, it shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom in the day of judgment than for you.” This brought to mind the destruction of Sodom, how two angels left on a mission to destroy Sodom while Abraham pleaded with the remaining angel to spare the city, and how they could not find ten righteous men in the entire city.

After a long pause Jesus continued. “I thank You, O Father, Lord of Heaven and earth, because You have hidden these things from the sophisticated and cunning, and revealed them to babes. Even so, Father, for so it seemed good in Your sight. All things are delivered to Me by My Father. And no one knows the Son except the Father. Nor does anyone know the Father except the Son, and the one to whom the Son will reveal Him.” The disciples had heard Jesus talk about His relationship with the Father many times. They knew the relationship He had with God. They also knew Jesus was referring to the priests and Pharisees. Jesus had often told the disciples how their traditions and power had blinded the religious leaders. Now the disciples could understand why Jesus had used Tyre as a symbol to illustrate to their greed.

Jesus gave them a moment to consider which relationship they were going to choose, that of the world, or the relationship with God, He was offering. For the first time the crowd became silent. This gave Jesus the opportunity to finish His message in a soft compassionate tone. “Come to Me all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke on you and learn of Me, for I am meek and lowly in heart, and you shall find rest to your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.”

The disciples could finally understand the contrast between God’s simple law, and the countless rituals imposed by the priests and Pharisees. All their lives they had been taught the traditions were followed because they made it easier to understand God’s law. After listening to Jesus for more than a year, they finally began to understand traditions complicated, and in fact distracted from God’s law. They could see many of the traditions had little or nothing to do with God’s Word, but came from other sources. This made them think. They could understand how following traditions put an undue burden on the people, which was so different than the simple truths Jesus had been teaching. Experience had taught them to accept the easier, less complicated way of life.

Matthew 9:35-38: Lord of the Harvest

Matthew 9:35-38 MKJV And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. (36) But seeing the crowds, He was moved with compassion on them, because they were tired and scattered like sheep having no shepherd. (37) Then He said to His disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few. (38) Therefore pray to the Lord of the harvest that He will send out laborers into His harvest.

 

The smell of the open air, sunshine on His face, cool breezes, and the pleasing sites of nature were quite a welcome change for Jesus. He had spent days in the closely connected, and tightly packed cities and villages, “teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom.” So many people to reach, and so much to say. Not even His disciples were ready for the entire story revealing God’s plan for salvation.

Jesus shared God’s love for His people in parables, actions, deeds, and lessons taught in the answers He provided. One day a young lawyer asked Him a question, “Master, which is the great commandment in the Law?” The lawyer thought he could outsmart Jesus by getting Him to place one commandment above another. He thought, no matter what Jesus answered, we would have something to accuse Him with. Because Jesus was in constant prayer with the Father, He had the gift of discerning the spirit. He was also prepared to answer the question with the only appropriate answer. “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it, You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.” (Matthew 22:35-40 MKJV)

Jesus also showed God’s love in the people He helped and healed. Jesus worked many long and tireless days and nights as they brought people with every form of sickness and disease to Him. He cured fevers, restored limbs, removed scars, healed broken bones, and broken hearts. He mended relationships and made marriages happier. He also raised people from the dead. All of these miracles, and some still would not accept Him, and believe. Many people believed, but were not yet willing to commit to understanding what a complete relationship with God was.

This day was different. It was a time to plan for the future. Jesus knew, as a man, He could not reach the world on His own. He had the help of the Holy Ghost, and of course His Father was always near, but in the form of a son of man, He knew His limitations. He knew His time in this world was short. He also knew, after He would die, and be planted in the earth, His ministry would grow, sprouting up and covering the world like a vine covers the side of a well. Branches would reach into every nook and cranny. Every leaf would turn towards the Sun of Righteousness for His life giving rays of light. Soon His vine would bear fruit.

Looking out over the fields Jesus admired the golden color of the ripening wheat. He thought of the time and labor invested in the fields. He also saw the faith of the farmer must match the knowledge of his trade. He knew how to plant, and when. Proper preparation was important. The ground had to be prepared. Seed was then scattered. Once the seed was upon the ground, faith was exercised. No one had power to make it rain, but God. The rains were perfectly timed with the temperatures and hours of sunlight required to produce an abundant crop.

After admiring the simple, yet inspiring scene of the golden wheat swaying in the breeze, Jesus looked back over to the crowds of people before Him. “He was moved with compassion on them, because they were tired and scattered like sheep having no shepherd. Then He said to His disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray to the Lord of the harvest that He will send out laborers into His harvest.”

 

Matthew 9:32-38: Jesus Heals a demon-possessed dumb man

Matthew 9:32-38 MKJV As they went out, behold, they brought to Him a dumb man, who had been demon-possessed. (33) And when the demon had been cast out, the dumb one spoke. And multitudes marveled, saying, Never was it seen like this in Israel! (34) But the Pharisees said, He throws out demons by the ruler of the demons.

 

Immediately after leaving Simeon and Reuel‘s home, a number of people showed Jesus a man who lost the ability to speak when he was very young man. As a very young boy, he was possessed by a demon that gained control of his life through a lie. A single lie was told to a number of people until the boy believed it was the truth. One lie grew to many. As he grew, the demon taught him how to use lies to amuse himself. At first it was sort of a game the boy played. As he kept a mental score of how many people he could deceive, it became a competition. When the boy became comfortable with lying, the demon introduced a new level, using lies to hurt people. He used lies to divide people within the community. He began to enjoy seeing how the lies created confrontations between groups. The demon soon taught the boy to use lies to divide families. The more damage he caused the greater control the demon gained.

As he grew to be a young man, he was soon consumed with lies, deceit, anger and pain. A battle waged inside of him between good and evil. The demon convinced him the calling from God was the reason he suffered from guilt. This drew him further away from God’s influence. Gaining full control the demon blinded the man’s ability to reason. Once this was accomplished it was easy to convince him the people he was harming were responsible for his guilty feelings. His lies and deceit turned into an insatiable desire for revenge. At this point the man was all but lost.

Many of the people began to realize the problems the man was causing. People most drastically effected by the marriages he ruined, and others from the community chastised him. After being exposed it did not take long for him to be segregated by family, friends, and the community. He found himself alone with no where to spread lies. The pain of being alone compounded by misguided guilt drove him insane. Going to the outskirts of town he raised his voice in anger, casting blame and cursing everyone he worked to deceive. After hours of anguished cursing with his voice raised as loud as he could scream, it disappeared. From that day he could not speak a word. The demon had achieved his goal.

For years the man’s demon continued to possess his mind, securing control by convincing him to blame others for his condition. Not having the ability to speak took away his ability to lie and deceive, but stopping the sin did not bring about healing. His heart was so far away from God, healing was not available, but his hearing was intact. Being silent eventually taught the man to listen. It took years for him to discover the blessing he still had. It took many more years for him to learn how to use it. While his mind was engulfed by fear, anger, revenge, and blamed others for his condition, his heart was blinded to what he really needed.

Slowly and surely positive concepts began reaching the man’s ears. This provided the man with a whole new view on life. He found he did not need a voice to treat people with respect and kindness. He began attending Sabbath worship at the local synagogue. The words he heard touched his heart. Seeing the change in him, someone gave him a job. For the first time in his life he felt he had a purpose. He began to pray. God blessed him with the support of friends.

His ears heard news about a healer. His friends told him about Jesus. When they heard Jesus was at Simeon and Reuel‘s home they took him there. The crowd was overwhelming, but they were determined to take him to Jesus. After hours of maneuvering through the mass, some of his friends were able to secure a position near the door. As soon as Jesus came through the door, their pleas caught His attention. As soon as the man was brought to Jesus, He knew what the problem was. Although the man had changed on the inside, the demon would not let go. Jesus did not attempt to enter into any conversation with the demon, but simply prayed to His Father to cast the demon out, and free the man.

Having become a popular man, many of the people knew he could not speak for years. They were all amazed when the man not only spoke, but shouted praises to God, giving Him all the glory. Much of the crowd joined in. No one had seen such a spectacle before. Hundreds praising God, and suddenly breaking into a song of thanks.

The Pharisees assigned to spy on Jesus that day huddled close so they could hear themselves speak. They all agreed to report Jesus had cast out a demon by calling on the ruler of demons. No one heard them except for Matthew, so he could record their reaction to the miracle that changed so many lives.

 

Haggai 1:5-7 MKJV And now so says Jehovah of Hosts: Set your heart on your ways; (6) you have sown much and bring in little; you eat, but you do not have enough; you drink, but you are not filled with drink; you dress, but no one is warm; and he who hires out himself hires himself for a bag full of holes. (7) So says Jehovah of Hosts: Set your heart on your ways.

 

 

Zechariah 4: The Two Anointed Ones

Zechariah 4:1-14 KJV And the angel that talked with me came again, and waked me, as a man that is wakened out of his sleep, (2) And said unto me, What seest thou? And I said, I have looked, and behold a candlestick all of gold, with a bowl upon the top of it, and his seven lamps thereon, and seven pipes to the seven lamps, which are upon the top thereof: (3) And two olive trees by it, one upon the right side of the bowl, and the other upon the left side thereof. (4) So I answered and spake to the angel that talked with me, saying, What are these, my lord? (5) Then the angel that talked with me answered and said unto me, Knowest thou not what these be? And I said, No, my lord. (6) Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts. (7) Who art thou, O great mountain? before Zerubbabel thou shalt become a plain: and he shall bring forth the headstone thereof with shoutings, crying, Grace, grace unto it. (8) Moreover the word of the LORD came unto me, saying, (9) The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this house; his hands shall also finish it; and thou shalt know that the LORD of hosts hath sent me unto you. (10) For who hath despised the day of small things? for they shall rejoice, and shall see the plummet in the hand of Zerubbabel with those seven; they are the eyes of the LORD, which run to and fro through the whole earth. (11) Then answered I, and said unto him, What are these two olive trees upon the right side of the candlestick and upon the left side thereof? (12) And I answered again, and said unto him, What be these two olive branches which through the two golden pipes empty the golden oil out of themselves? (13) And he answered me and said,Knowest thou not what these be? And I said, No, my lord. (14) Then said he, These are the two anointed ones, that stand by the Lord of the whole earth.

First off, there are 2 things you can do, after praying of course. Identify the key words that draw the most attention. Don’t look at numbers, or other identifiers associated with the key words right away. Those can be studied later. The KEY words are the most important and the SPIRIT will lead you to them.

To understand the theme, or context of the of the scripture, read the previous chapter to get the flow. You will want to look for things that are the same, similar, or related:

Zechariah 3:4 KJV And he answered and spake unto those that stood before him, saying, Take away the filthy garments from him. And unto him he said, Behold, I have caused thine iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee with change of raiment.

Zechariah 3:7-8 KJV Thus saith the LORD of hosts; If thou wilt walk in my ways, and if thou wilt keep my charge, then thou shalt also judge my house, and shalt also keep my courts, and I will give thee places to walk among these that stand by. (8) Hear now, O Joshua the high priest, thou, and thy fellows that sit before thee: for they are men wondered at: for, behold, I will bring forth my servant the BRANCH.

Notice how the main theme of Ch 4 centers around speaking and answers. In Ch 3 the answer is, “Take away the filthy garments,” and “caused thine iniquity to pass,” along with, “and I will clothe thee with change of raiment.”

Another theme in Ch 3 is: “If thou wilt walk in my ways, and if thou wilt keep my charge,” and “I will bring forth my servant the BRANCH.” Does the BRANCH have a relationship with the olive branches in Ch 4, which are the anointed ones? This shows how to choose the proof texts. It must have the same context, a relationship between the themes of salvation and Jesus, the BRANCH.

 

Now that we know the basic theme and the context, we can begin to gather related texts.

 

Candlestick

Here are a few simple texts. Not too deep to begin. When you collect your own texts you will begin to see many other relationships. For simple studies you need to stick with choosing texts with simple, straight forward definitions. We are looking for the spiritual definition for the key word CANDLESTICK.

Exodus 25:31 KJV And thou shalt make a candlestick of pure gold: of beaten work shall the candlestick be made: his shaft, and his branches, his bowls, his knops, and his flowers, shall be of the same.

Exodus 25 describes the Tabernacle, so now we know the candlestick is associated with the Tabernacle.

 

Exodus 35:14 KJV The candlestick also for the light, and his furniture, and his lamps, with the oil for the light,

Exodus 39:37 KJV The pure candlestick, with the lamps thereof, even with the lamps to be set in order, and all the vessels thereof, and the oil for light,

These texts have extra bonus points. The candlestick is for light, and this also shows oil is for light. These also show the candlestick and lamps are the same. We can write it out like this:

Candlestick = lamp = oil = light

They all point to light. They are all part of a system to produce light. We can look further by locating texts for lamp, or light. Since lamp is on the list, it will be the next word to study.

 

Lamp

Psalms 119:105 KJV NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

Proverbs 6:23 KJV For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life:

Notice how the definitions are plain and simple. There is no chance of a mistake, or guessing. This is how the spiritual definitions for key words is always given. Except for a few, that we will see later.

Lamp = God’s Word and commandment.

We also are shown God’s Law is light. (Another bonus point!).

 

Olive Tree

Psalms 52:8 KJV But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God: I trust in the mercy of God for ever and ever.

Jeremiah 11:16 KJV The LORD called thy name, A green olive tree, fair, and of goodly fruit: with the noise of a great tumult he hath kindled fire upon it, and the branches of it are broken.

Hosea 14:6 KJV His branches shall spread, and his beauty shall be as the olive tree, and his smell as Lebanon.

The Bible uses an olive tree to describe a person, or people. Notice how they are referred to in the texts. In the house of God. The Lord called…

Olive tree = people, God’s people.

 

This is a rather complicated study. So far we know the symbols point to and identify the two anointed ones. Making a chart will help make it easier to understand.

Candlestick = lamp = oil = light

Lamp = God’s Word and commandment.

Olive tree = people, God’s people.

The two anointed ones are made up of the light, God’s Word and commandment, and His people. It seems very vague at this time. It actually requires a long study on the word anointed.

 

Anointed

Exodus 40:9 KJV And thou shalt take the anointing oil, and anoint the tabernacle, and all that is therein, and shalt hallow it, and all the vessels thereof: and it shall be holy.

Exodus 29:2 KJV And unleavened bread, and cakes unleavened tempered with oil, and wafers unleavened anointed with oil: of wheaten flour shalt thou make them.

Exodus 30:26 KJV And thou shalt anoint the tabernacle of the congregation therewith, and the ark of the testimony,

The Tabernacle, every item inside, and the unleavened wafers were anointed.

 

Exodus 30:30 KJV And thou shalt anoint Aaron and his sons, and consecrate them, that they may minister unto me in the priest’s office.

Aaron the high priest and every priest was anointed.

 

2 Kings 9:3 KJV Then take the box of oil, and pour it on his head, and say, Thus saith the LORD, I have anointed thee king over Israel. Then open the door, and flee, and tarry not.

The king of Israel was anointed.

 

Isaiah 61:1 KJV The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound;

Luke 4:18 KJV The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised,

John 12:3 KJV Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair: and the house was filled with the odour of the ointment.

Acts 10:38 KJV How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.

Jesus was anointed. Jesus was both High Priest and King. The Tabernacle and all the items within pointed to Jesus and His ministry. Jesus was anointed as two into one, and stands beside the Lord of the whole earth.

 

1 John 2:27 KJV But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.

Revelation 3:18 KJV I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.

Jesus’ followers are also anointed. One day we will stand with Jesus and the Lord of all the earth forever. The two anointed ones are Jesus and His followers.

 

It may also help to identify Zerubbabel.

Ezra 5:2 KJV Then rose up Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and Jeshua the son of Jozadak, and began to build the house of God which is at Jerusalem: and with them were the prophets of God helping them.

 

Haggai 1:1 KJV In the second year of Darius the king, in the sixth month, in the first day of the month, came the word of the LORD by Haggai the prophet unto Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and to Joshua the son of Josedech, the high priest, saying,

 

Following Zerubbabel through the books of Ezra and Haggi, we find he was the governor of Judah when the temple and walls were rebuilt. Now we understand why Zerubbabel is mentioned in the vision of laying the foundation and building the temple.

Matthew 21:42-44: The Stone the builders rejected.

KJV Matthew 21:42-44

42. Jesus saith unto them, Did ye never read in the scriptures, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner: this is the Lord’s doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes?

43. Therefore say I unto you, The kingdom of God shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof.

44. And whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken: but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder.

 

After years of preparation the first stage for building the new synagogue was only a few days away. A long and elaborate ceremony had been planned for months. The most prestigious religious leaders of the time were gathering to attend the festivities. Almost as much time and money had been invested in the spectacular raiment worn to the event as the funds required to building the synagogue itself.

It was not an easy task to raise the funds required to erect such an elaborate structure, which consisted of high walls, large open rooms, detailed pillars, ornate stone work, to be built using only the finest and most expensive materials. The priests had to invent special measures to convict the people into giving until it hurt. They read and reread the ancient books, studying each bylaw and precept to make certain every one was used to place the members in a position of constant repentance. The sacrificial system served the priests well as a source of almost unlimited income required to satisfy their lofty goals. Soon their aspirations were to become reality.

A large site had been cleared and prepared for the foundation. In the distance a long train of twelve oxen toiled under the strain of the heavy load being pulled up the final incline to its final resting place. The size and weight of the stone required the construction of a new custom designed cart consisting of seven extra heavy duty axles. The strain was so great on the axles an onboard lubrication system was developed to reduce the friction by constantly dripping olive oil into specially drilled holes in the support housings.

As directed by the priests, the stone was covered by one large sheet of fine linen. No one had seen the stone yet. Priests had visited the quarry site months ago to deliver the specifications. The final choice was left to the master mason, Titus.

Once the stone was drawn behind a series of large curtains pitched for the special event, the high priest with a contingency of lower ranking church officials arrived to inspect the stone. Titus directed the removal of the large hemp ropes used to secure the load. A group of six assistants positioned themselves at one end of the linen sheet, awaiting the signal. Once directed, they removed the sheet in a single motion, exposing the large, white corner stone.

In an instant the expression on the faces of the high priest and his assistants changed from excitement to shock and utter disgust. Each had imagined in his own mind an elaborate corner stone of ornate granite with veins of rich deep color with flakes of quartz glistening in the sun. Instead, Titus had chosen a highly polished stone of pure white.

In a state of anger, the high priest waved his right hand from his front, to a position over his shoulder with his thumb pointing behind him. All he said was, “take it back.” He turned around and stomped away in total disgust.

 

This is one of the few parables where Jesus asks, “Did you never read in the scriptures?” This indicates it is an important lesson. It also shows, Jesus was quoting directly from God’s word. “The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner. This is the LORD’S doing; it is marvellous in our eyes. This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalms 118:22-24.

The stone was rejected by the builders. There are two words requiring special attention to learn the spiritual meaning. What does the stone represent, and who are the builders? To find the proper spiritual meaning for these words, additional texts containing each word must be located, and checked to make certain they are used within the same context as the original parable.

 

Stone

Ephesians 2:20-22 MKJV and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone, (21) in whom every building having been fitly framed together, grows into a holy sanctuary in the Lord; (22) in whom you also are built together for a dwelling place of God through the Spirit.

Acts 4:10-11 MKJV be it known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, in this name does this man stand before you whole. (11) This is the Stone which you builders have counted worthless, and He has become the Head of the Corner.

1 Peter 2:4-8 MKJV For having been drawn to Him, a living Stone, indeed rejected by men, but elect, precious with God; (5) you also as living stones are built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. (6) Therefore also it is contained in the Scripture: “Behold, I lay in Zion a chief corner Stone, elect, precious, and he who believes on Him shall never be ashamed.” (7) Therefore to you who believe is the honor. But to those who are disobedient, He is the Stone which the builders rejected; this One came to be the Head of the corner, (8) and a Stone-of-stumbling and a Rock-of-offense to those disobeying, who stumble at the Word, to which they also were appointed.

Jesus is the living Stone, the chief corner Stone rejected by the builders. Although Jesus was rejected by men, He is still precious in God’s eyes. Not only was Jesus rejected by the priests, scribes, and Pharisees of His time, He is also rejected by those who pass themselves off as builders today.

Those who reject Jesus do this because they stumble, or misuse the Word. They use the Word for their own gain. They study without the guidance of the Holy Spirit. They apply God’s Word in a manner that is pleasing to them, and benefits themselves. They do not have Jesus in their hearts. They may preach Jesus, but to them, His life and ways are a stumbling block.

It seems strange God would use the word builder to describe those who reject Jesus. What is a builder? One who plans for and works to build, in this case a church. Imagine building a church. After raising funds, plans must be drawn up, a suitable site chosen, and a foundation laid before the building begins. You can see the relationship between the parable of the man who builds on sand, and the other who builds on a rock to this parable. In both cases the parables refer to a builder. One wise, the other, wise in his own mind.

In this case the texts refer to a spiritual church of living stones. These living stones are people, church members. With Jesus as the head, each stone is fit together to match the contour and shape of the corner stone. After the corner stone is placed, each stone is set and measured to ensure it is straight and plumb. Each stone is carefully prepared and securely placed to create a straight, sturdy, and strong wall.

It is not the people who build the spiritual church, but God. The Holy Spirit is the only one who can change lives, prepare the living stones to be fit together with the corner stone. Each stone is prepared and fit together in whom? “Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone, in whom every building having been fitly framed together, grows into a holy sanctuary in the Lord.” There is a growth involved. A growth in Christ.

In the parable the builders only rejected Jesus. The parable does not indicate the builders had anything to do with choosing or shaping any of the stones. The builders who rejected Christ are not in the service of building His spiritual church, but an earthy building of their own design based on their traditions and precepts. A very unstable and crooked wall.

 

Builder

1 Corinthians 3:10-11 MKJV (10) According to the grace of God which is given to me, as a wise master builder, I have laid the foundation, and another builds on it. But let every man be careful how he builds on it. (11) For any other foundation can no one lay than the one being laid, who is Jesus Christ.

A proper builder is one who knows how to build upon the foundation established by Jesus. The same foundation built upon by the apostles and prophets. The builder must be careful, always insuring he is doing everything according to the word of God. Not bits and pieces, but the entire Word of God. If a building were built with bits and pieces missing, it would be very unstable.

How was Jesus rejected, and why? He came here to free the world from sin, to teach the world of His Father’s love and character. He came here to show the dividing line between God’s word and human traditions. He came here as a man, a simple human being. He was rejected because this was not the image of God their traditions created.

He is despised and rejected of men; a Man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief; and as it were a hiding of faces from Him, He being despised, and we esteemed Him not. Surely He has borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed Him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgressions; He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was on Him; and with His stripes we ourselves are healed. (Isaiah 53:3-5 MKJV)

The Stone the builders rejected was not the image of stone they were looking for.

Matthew 9:27-31: Jesus Heals the Blind

Matthew 9:27-31 KJV And when Jesus departed thence, two blind men followed him, crying, and saying, Thou Son of David, have mercy on us. (28) And when he was come into the house, the blind men came to him: and Jesus saith unto them, Believe ye that I am able to do this? They said unto him, Yea, Lord. (29) Then touched he their eyes, saying, According to your faith be it unto you. (30) And their eyes were opened; and Jesus straitly charged them, saying, See that no man know it. (31) But they, when they were departed, spread abroad his fame in all that country.

 

Business was good. Simeon and Reuel established themselves as artisans in the field of pottery. Aristocrats from near and far coveted the superior quality of their wares. A number of factors contributed to their success. Their keen sense of smell guaranteed the highest quality raw materials. Their astute hearing told them when each piece was properly glazed and fired. Their sense of touch picked up minor defects often missed during a visual inspection. When firing the pottery the employees would describe every detail of the process. How the pottery glowed, each change in color until it became almost transparent, indicating the process was complete.

One of the most important factors contributing to their success was the manner in which they treated their employees. The entire operation was run like a family business. Each employee was involved in every decision. Everyone was paid equally, no matter what their particular job was. This created an atmosphere of cooperation. Each employee was cross trained to assist with every aspect of the business. Not a single detail was over looked.

Their shop was also famous as a hub for news from near and far. The numerous caravans bringing businessmen from every corner of the known world also carried news updates on every subject. News about Jesus arrived at the shop during His early ministry. Their employees and many customers encouraged Simeon and Reuel to see Him. It seemed like a good idea, but something held them back from making a decision.

Many of the reports about Jesus were positive, a few were negative. Simeon and Reuel discussed the possibility to taking some time off and going to hear Jesus speak. Simeon asked Reuel, “what do you think about going to hear this new teacher?” Reuel had been considering the subject and answered quickly, “I have been thinking about it, but do you really think He would help us? I mean, we are doing fine, we have been blessed with more than we could ever hope to ask.” Simeon agreed, “I suppose if God wanted to change our lives, He would have done something about it by now. We need to remain thankful for what the Lord has given us.” Reuel added, “yes, we have more to be thankful for then we could have ever imagined.” Simeon agreed, “let’s praise the Lord for His blessings, and leave the future up to Him.” Reuel added, “let everything be done in God’s will, in His time.”

A few days later news from within the city came to Simeon and Reuel. Jesus was just outside of town. Their friends and employees encouraged them to go hear Jesus speak, and ask for His blessing. Simeon and Reuel explained they had talked about this, and decided to leave everything in God’s hands. Many of their friends begged them to reconsider, but their decision had been made. They would pray, and wait on God’s plan.

That did not stop their most trusted friends and employees from acting on their own. After praying, they decided to go to Jesus themselves. They felt if they asked Jesus to come see Simeon and Reuel, it would be up to Jesus to grant a blessing.

The following day they dressed in their best garments as a show of respect. As they crossed the peak in the road, many of their friends and acquaintances greeted them, offering their assistance. Surrounded by a large group in the valley Jesus walked among them offering His blessing, and curing many in need. Jesus could not help but notice a group gathering on the road above. It seemed strange to see people gathering around men dressed in costly apparel. He knew they were not associated with the priests, Pharisees, or scribes, who were often avoided by the masses.

Jesus’ early morning prayers told Him why this group was seeking Him. Jesus did not want to waste any time. The road into the valley was long and winding, so Jesus headed straight up the steep inclined sides of the valley walls taking the direct route. Jesus moved with determination, navigating the loose stones and unstable soil between Himself, and the objective His Father gave Him for the day. When He reached the road Simeon and Reuel’s friends explained the situation and begged Jesus to come with them, and see for Himself before making a decision. Jesus agreed to go with them.

Seeing Jesus with Simeon and Reuel’s friends filled everyone with excitement and anticipation. Many ran ahead to announce Jesus’ visit. More and more people gathered to see Jesus work His miracles.

Jesus and His disciples were greeted by a throng of happy people praising God and singing His praises. Simeon and Reuel could tell something special was happening, they had never imagined Jesus was coming to see them, although this was the news they were hearing. In all humility they knelt down to pray. Upon rising, they went to the door with hope lightening their hearts. Once outside they felt the rays of the sun warming their faces, their ears picked up greetings, they could tell Jesus was only feet away. Excitement filled their hearts to over flowing as they shouted out, “Son of David, have mercy on us.” When Jesus came into the house, the two blind men came to him: and Jesus said unto them, “do you believe that I am able to do this?” They said unto him, “Yes, Lord.” Jesus touched their eyes, saying, “According to your faith be it unto you.” Without directly asking, except in prayer to the Father, their eyes were opened; and Jesus straitly charged them, saying, “See that no man know it.“

Simeon and Reuel did not have to say a word. Their actions demonstrated everything Jesus did for them. Everyone saw it in the joy on their faces. There was no doubt, every move and action from that moment forward was a witness to the fact, Jesus gave them their sight.

The news of Jesus’ miracle did not take long to spread. The respect everyone had for Simeon and Reuel advanced the news faster and further than any before. By touching their friends many felt as if Jesus also touched them in a close and personal way.

Matthew 9:18-26: The Issue of Blood

Matthew 9:18-26 MKJV While He spoke these things to them, behold, a certain ruler came and worshiped Him, saying, My daughter has just now died. But come and lay Your hand on her and she will live. (19) And Jesus arose and followed him. And so did His disciples. (20) And behold, a woman, who had a flow of blood for twelve years, came up behind Him and touched the hem of His garment. (21) For she said within herself, If only I shall touch His robe, I will be whole. (22) But turning and seeing her, Jesus said, Daughter, be comforted; your faith has saved you. And the woman was saved from that hour. (23) And when Jesus came into the ruler’s house and saw the minstrels and the people making a noise, (24) He said to them, Go back, for the little girl is not dead, but sleeps. And they laughed Him to scorn. (25) But when the people were put out, He went in and took her by the hand, and the little girl arose. (26) And this report went out into all that land.

Reference texts: Mark 5:22-43, Luke 8:41-56.

 

Jesus woke up long before sunrise to pray. His connection with His Father prepared Him for the events of the day. Such a close connection provided information He needed to share. It was up to Jesus to look for the opportunities God had placed in motion long before the beginning of the day.

During a light breakfast with everyone sharing the meager necessities they had carried with them, Jesus began to teach. Many of the disciples thought this was a strange subject to share at this particular time of the day, considering the subject He had shared the day before.

That morning Jesus taught a subject which made some of his disciple feel uncomfortable. “God does not want you to be troubled. He has sent you a message of hope. The dead do not praise God, nor do any who go down into silence. For in death there is no memory of You; in the grave who shall give You thanks? For the grave cannot praise You, death can not rejoice in You; they who go down into the pit cannot hope for Your truth. You hide Your face, they are troubled; You take away their breath, they die and return to their dust. His breath goes forth; he returns to the earth; in that very day his thoughts perish. But God will redeem my soul from the hand of the grave; for He will take me. Lift up your eyes to the heavens, and look on the earth beneath; for the heavens shall vanish away like smoke, and the earth shall become old like a garment; and its inhabitants shall die in the same way. But My salvation shall be forever, and My righteousness shall not be broken.” Psalms 115:17, Psalms 6:5, Isaiah 38:18, Psalms 104:29, Psalms 49:15, Psalms 146:4, Isaiah 51:6

 

As Jesus was teaching He noticed a man dressed in costly robes running down the road. This seemed quite unusual. Watching the scene Jesus knew something must be wrong. He interrupted His lesson for a moment to hear the man inquire, “is Jesus here? I heard Jesus was here. Can you take me to Him? This is urgent.” Jesus’ followers quickly pointed out their teacher to the rich Jewish ruler.

Less than a day ago Jairus had been discussing ways to do away with Jesus and His teaching. He had seen Jesus teach once, but it did not seem to make an impact on him. When he reported what he saw with his eyes and heard with his ears to the Pharisees, he had a simple explanation for every act of healing Jesus performed that day. Up until today the ruler had been working hard to discredit Jesus and prove His acts of healing were nothing more than a hoax. Jairus had witnessed wonders from Heaven, but his faith was blinded.

Although Jairus had a great deal of influence tearing him away for the truth, in his heart he kept asking the same question, “how much evidence do you need?” He kept fighting the question flooding his mind, countering with questions of his own, “how can everything I have been taught be wrong? How can one man change the beliefs of a nation?”

Everything changed for the rich ruler that day. After spending a long day debating ways to do away with Jesus, the man headed for home. He could hear the cries of agony from a distance. Suddenly one of his servants turned the corner and ran to him saying, “master, your daughter is sick, very sick.” The words cut his heart like a hot knife. Jairus began to feel sick himself. His emotions and thoughts changed in a moment. Anguish filled his face, as he asked, “what is wrong with her, when did it happen? How did it happen?” He did not wait for an answer, but ran home as fast as his legs would carry him.

Jairus arrived home out of breath, his heart beating hard, and a pain in his side like he had never experienced before. Just when he felt he had passed his threshold of pain, the site of the still body of his daughter magnified his grief beyond measure. The pain only increased when he hugged his only daughter and felt the heat of her fever. He laid her back down observing her faint, shallow, and irregular breathing. Instantly images of the time they spent together raced through his mind. He broke down in agony and cried at her bedside.

A few moments later the rich ruler of the synagogue sprang to his feet and raced out of the house. He knew exactly where Jesus was based on the reports from the spies watching Him. The death of his daughter removed pride from his heart. He no longer cared what people thought as he ran through the streets in his royal looking robes.

Finding Jesus, Jairus fell before Him on his knees, praising Him, making mention of everything he saw, and now believed. He pleaded with Jesus, “My daughter is sick with a fever near death, come and lay Your hand on her and she will live.’ The seeds planted by Jesus were now taking root. For this man it took a trial of a life time. Jesus could see the anguish and desperation in his face. The man looked at Jesus’ face, praying for evidence that He was the Messiah, the Promised One. While Jesus looked down at the man, He prayed to His Father that others would open their hearts before having to face such a trial. All it took was one touch from Jesus. He placed his hand on the man’s shoulder. Taking this as a sign of acceptance, the man took Jesus’ hand, stood, and began leading Jesus to his home where his daughter lay. His disciples with most of the others followed.

 

Traveling along the road was rather quick. Some people ran ahead to announce Jesus’ coming. The city streets became crowded and difficult to pass through. John and James took the lead followed by Jesus. The other disciples followed close behind. Progress was slow as numerous people crowed near to touch Jesus.

One woman stood motionless in the crowd, not sure what she should do. She had spent all her savings trying to find a cure for her aliment. It was a woman’s problem which was looked down upon by the Jewish community based on Leviticus 15. Too often one part of scripture is taken and scrutinized while the heart of the Bible is over looked. In this case, the woman viewed her problem as a curse. She had spent so much time washing and providing sacrifices required for her cleansing. She had spent all her money on doctors, and others claiming to posses a power to cure.

She heard about Jesus, but never saw Him. All her faith was based upon reports from others. Every word she grasped upon with a feeling of hope. Now that Jesus was near, her mind became a battle ground between faith and doubt. The closer Jesus came, the more unclean she felt. With Jesus only a few feet away, she covered her face and turned away. She thought to herself, she had no business making Jesus unclean. She could not bring herself to doing anything like that.

Just as Jesus was passing by, she felt of muscles tighten, her face flushed as she felt uncomfortable hot flashes. She prayed to God, let it be your will, heal me. With her eyes closed she turned around, faced the crowd, and dropped face down to the ground, holding her hands out to soften the blow of the hard pavement. Her body bumped into someone on the way down, which deflected her fall just a bit.

Matthew helped the woman to her feet. She quickly turned around and tried to loose herself in the crowd. As she was bumping around from person to person, she felt a warm sensation inside. She felt different, something she had not felt for twelve years. She knew she was healed. Suddenly she did not want to get away. She turned around, and Jesus was right in front of her.

Jesus felt the power go out of Himself. He stopped, turned to one side and said, “who touched my garment?” Peter said to Him, “You see the crowd pressing on You, and do You say, Who touched Me?” Jesus looked over each face in the crowd in front of Him. His eyes rested on the woman, now trembling on the outside, but at peace on the inside. She dropped to her knees in front of Jesus and said, “forgive me Lord, I was the one who touched you. I wanted to be healed, and you were my only hope. I had suffered from a issue of blood for twelve years. I tried everything. The priests could not help me. I tried all the physicians I could find. No one could help me, but Jesus, you healed me with one touch” Jesus helped her to her feet, looked into her eyes full of tears, some of grief, others from joy. Jesus said to her, “be of good comfort: thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace.”

 

The experience lasted for only a moment, Jesus felt a tug on His garment, while Jairus asked, “did you forget about my daughter?” As he finished his question Jairus felt a tug on his robe. It was his servant again. This time it was impossible not to notice the tears on the face of his servant. Expecting the worst Jairus asked, “what is it?” After taking a moment to compose himself his servant spoke up, “your daughter has died, there is no reason to bother the Teacher.”

In a moment Jairus’ high hopes were dashed to pieces and ground into the dust. He felt a pain more severe than the first. Jesus shared his pain. He put His arms around Jairus and whispered in his ear, “Do not be afraid, only believe.” Jesus held him up as they completed the journey to the rich rulers home.

Long before they reached the house, cries from the mourners could be heard over the noise of the crowd. As the cries swept over the crowd, the conversations ceased.

When they arrived, Jesus looked over the scene of professional mourners practicing their trade. They were weeping and crying out loud, pulling at their clothes and beating upon their chests in a show of passionate sorrow, Jesus thought to Himself, if only this much energy would be put into praising God. Arriving at the door, Jesus asked the mourners to leave. They questioned Him, “why should we leave? Are you trying to take our wages away from us” Jesus calmly said, “Why do you make a tumult and weep? The girl is not dead, but sleeps.” In an attempt to discourage the mother and father from asking for any help from Jesus, they laughed at Him. Jesus quietly cleared the room and brought in Peter and James, John, and the father and the mother of the child. Jesus took the child’s hand and said to her, “Talitha koumi;” (which interpreted is, Little girl, I say to you, Arise!) And instantly the little girl arose and walked (for she was twelve years old ). And they were astonished with a great astonishment. And He strictly warned them that no one should know this. And He said, “give her something to eat.”

Jairus and his wife knelt down and hugged their little daughter. Peter, James, and John stood looking over at Jesus as He watched the scene in front of them. To Jesus this was a vision of the resurrection when families will once again be united as one forever. Jesus looked over at His disciples knowing they did not fully understand the lesson. Jesus was looking forward to the day all of these memories would come back to their minds, when they would see with a perfect understanding. One day they would come to realize God’s power, the love that brought this family together. This family symbolized all the familles that will reunite in Heaven.

Matthew 9:14-17: New Cloth and New Wine

Matthew 9:14-17 MKJV Then the disciples of John came to Him saying, Why do we and the Pharisees fast often, but Your disciples do not fast? (15) And Jesus said to them, Can the sons of the bridechamber mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? But the days will come when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then they shall fast. (16) No one puts a piece of new cloth onto an old garment; for that which is put in to fill it up takes from the garment, and the tear is made worse. (17) Nor do men put new wine into old wineskins; else the wineskins burst, and the wine runs out, and the wineskins perish. But they put new wine into new wineskins, and both are preserved together.

 

After one meal with Jesus, Matthew decided to leave everything behind to follow Jesus. At the moment it seemed he could never get enough of what Jesus offered. Matthew wanted to find out everything about this man. Matthew had not seen Jesus heal anyone. Like most people, he heard the stories, but he had not witnessed a single miracle performed by Jesus. Matthew followed Jesus based on His word. Since Jesus was there in front of him, Matthew figured the best thing to do was talk to Him. “I liked your talk about sacrifice and mercy after dinner.” Jesus asked him, “do you understand what the sacrificial lamb represents?” Matthew could tell by the tone of Jesus’ voice, his first answer was not the one Jesus was looking for. He decided to ask Jesus, “what do you mean?” Jesus did not answer, so after a while Matthew had no choice but provide his answer to continue the conversation. “The lamb takes away sins.” Jesus wanted to see what Matthew believed. Jesus asked, “do you really believe a lamb can take away sin?” Matthew thought this was an easy question, this is what he had been taught all his life, so he answered, “yes.” Jesus tested him further, “what type of lamb does the law require?” Matthew quickly answered, “a perfect lamb without blemish.” Jesus asked, “is there such a thing as a perfect lamb?” Matthew, knowing the daily corruption witnessed in the sacrificial system run by the priests answered, “I suppose it depends whose standards are used.” Jesus responded as if knowing how Matthew would answer, “is there any standard beside God’s? When a man offers a sacrifice of peace offerings to Jehovah to carry out his vow, or a free-will offering in cattle or sheep, it shall be without blemish to be accepted.” (Leviticus 22:21 MKJV)

 

Jesus knew how the priests had corrupted the sacrificial system, and how they had turned the Sabbath from a time to commune with God to a day of toil, following the endless list of rules and regulations established by the priests. These traditions took the mind off God’s plan by substituting the promise of salvation with animals and works. This is what Jesus came to this world to correct, and Matthew was now open to receive the truth.

Jesus could not wait to share the plan of salvation with Matthew, who was not ready to understand the entire plan in detail, but Jesus had seeds to plant that would one day sprout and grow into a full understanding. “”One day I will not be with you. At that time you will have a better understanding of the things I am about to tell you. After that I will return to answer all your questions. There is a salvation from God, and another salvation taught by men. Like all things from God, salvation is sure and true. The salvation from God does not require works, but is a free gift obtained by faith. “He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord Jehovah will wipe away tears from all faces. And He shall take away from all the earth the rebuke of His people. For Jehovah has spoken. And one shall say in that day, Lo, this is our God. We have waited for Him, and He will save us. This is Jehovah; we have waited for Him, we will be glad and rejoice in His salvation.” (Isaiah 25:8-9 MKJV)

Jesus continued to explain salvation. “”True salvation is offered by God. David explained, “Sacrifice and offering You did not desire; My ears You have opened; burnt offering and sin offering You have not asked.” (Psalms 40:6 MKJV) Like with Abraham, God will provide His perfect sacrifice. When you accept God’s sacrifice, you will be saved. You cannot accept God’s sacrifice and try to combine it with your works. If you try you will create a war within yourself and the enemy will not allow you to feel the comfort God is offering. When you rely on your works it opens the door of guilt. You feel no matter how hard you work at your own salvation, it is never enough. The two will tear you apart.”

Matthew asked Jesus to tell him more about God’s salvation. Jesus, enjoying Matthew’s eagerness explained what he was about to see, experience, and write about. “You will hear many new things. You may not understand at first, but everything will be revealed to those who seek the truth with an open heart. I will put my Spirit in those who will stand fast in my word. Others will hear my words, and be torn by jealousy and anger. I do not teach the traditions of men, but the truth from God, which was spoken before this world was created. Those who cling to traditions and what men teach will loose the words I have placed within their hearts. Trying to combine the two will tear them apart”

Not long after talking with Matthew, they met a group of John the Baptist’s disciples on the road. The Pharisees were constantly attempting to divide the groups by placing doubts and questions on their minds. Seeing Jesus they asked, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast often, but Your disciples do not fast?”

Jesus said to them, “Can the sons of the bride chamber mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? But the days will come when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then they shall fast.” Jesus, who spoke clearly to Matthew now began to speak in parables. “No one puts a piece of new cloth onto an old garment; for that which is put in to fill it up takes from the garment, and the tear is made worse. Nor do men put new wine into old wineskins; else the wineskins burst, and the wine runs out, and the wineskins perish. But they put new wine into new wineskins, and both are preserved together.”

Although parables were new to John’s disciples, they quickly grasped onto their meaning. One of them answered, “Lord we hear and believe your word. We will not only keep it in our hearts, but go out and teach it to the world. John can no longer be with us, can we follow you?”

As the sun was setting the red hue highlighted the dark lines, and the outline of the smile on Jesus’ face. At that moment every color was accentuated. The horizon lit up in hues of pink and yellow. Leaves on the trees shone like the deepest jade, while rocks on the ground reflected God’s brilliance. It was a moment to be etched in the memories of everyone present as Jesus supplied the answer they longed to hear, “yes my brother.”

Matthew 9:9-13: Matthew the Tax Collector

Matthew 9:9-13 MKJV And as Jesus passed on from there, He saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax-office. And He said to him, Follow Me! And he aros:e and followed Him. (10) And it happened as Jesus reclined in the house, behold, many tax-collectors and sinners came and were reclining with Him and His disciples. (11) And when the Pharisees saw, they said to His disciples, Why does your master eat with tax-collectors and sinners? (12) But when Jesus heard, He said to them, The ones who are whole do not need a physician, but the ones who are sick. (13) But go and learn what this is, I will have mercy and not sacrifice. For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.

 

Jesus stopped to observe the scene at a tax collectors booth. A young man was pleading with the tax collector, “please sir, forgive me. This is all we have. We have no money left for our evening meal.” The man’s young wife stood behind him, holding two young children close to her. It was a most embarrassing situation for both the man and his wife, but less painful than the penalty they would pay if the tax collector decided to report them, and file formal charges. It was not unusual for tax collectors to extract additional sums of money for personal gain. Many were dulled to corruption, feeling little or no remorse for the suffering masses they served.

Jesus’ sharp eyes did not miss what was happening. The tax collector put his hand over a coin, sliding it across the table as he put his hand on top of the young man’s hand, patting it in a show of pity. “Don’t worry young man, you are only a few pennies short. I will make a record of it this time, but next time I may not be so understanding.” The man, feeling a bit shocked, picked up the coin in his hand, hiding it from the site of others. “I thank you sir, and I will not let you down. Bless you sir.” Jesus continued to watch as the tax collector opened his purse, counted out a few coins, placed them on the tax chest along with the rest of the money, and recorded the transaction in his ledger. Jesus walked up to Matthew the tax collector and said, “Follow Me!” And he arose and followed Him.

Matthew not only followed Jesus, he couldn’t wait to catch up and walk next to Him. Matthew was not shy about asking, “are you Jesus, I mean the real Jesus, the healer?” Jesus answered, “yes, I am.” Matthew could not believe he was walking next to the famous healer and teacher. It took him a minute to think of another question. “How do you do it?” Jesus wanted to test him, so He asked, “do what?” Matthew replied, “the healing. How do you heal people?” Jesus gave him a minute to think of the question he asked, then answered, “how do you give people back their tax money?” The answer stopped Matthew in his tracks. He watched Jesus walk away while trying to understand the connection.

Suddenly Matthew got an idea. Running back up to Jesus, he invited Him to dinner. “I have a few friends coming to dinner this evening. I would be honored if you would be my guest. That is you and your friends.” Jesus stopped, turned to the three disciples with him, and asked, “should we accept our new friend’s offer?” His disciples gave Jesus a strange look, wondering why He would ask them such a question. John answered, “yes,” for the group. John could tell Jesus was looking past him to the group of Pharisees assigned to follow them for the day.

To John it seemed strange the priests, Pharisees, and scribes listened to Jesus, but could not understand Him. Maybe it was because they would only follow for a day. The next day another group was assigned to spy on them. But there were so many other people who came to listen to Jesus for one day and appeared to understand. John began to think, did those people really understand what Jesus was teaching? Did one day with Jesus really change their lives? John glanced behind him at the group of Pharisees following them today, and questioned, will something happen today that will reach these people? Weren’t the miracles enough to convince these people, Jesus was the Son of God?

During the entire journey Matthew talked off everyone’s ears, telling them all about his friends. He was so excited about bringing Jesus home to meet all of them. This was the proudest moment in Matthew’s life.

It did not take long for them to arrive at Matthew’s home. Not an over extravagant home. Much better than the average resident, but not as elaborate as some. The decor was simple. It lacked the feminine touch. Jesus noticed the lack of decorative accessories found in other homes of this size. More often than not, homes of this size were often decorated with images of mingled religions, as if the occupants kept them around just in case, to make their guests feel at ease, or as a show of status.

Matthew quickly arranged his guests at the table announcing, “my friends will be here soon.” The Pharisees waited outside in the court yard with a full view of the dining room. It took them a few minutes of debate to enter the courtyard, there was no way they would sit down to a meal with a tax collector. Their status would not allow such a thing.

After a short wait, other guests began to arrive, the Pharisees taking careful note of each guest. Most of them they knew, from the tax collection tables throughout the city. Matthew’s friends were also tax collectors. They saw something in Matthew they respected, his honesty, and the way he treated them and others as friends. Tax collectors did not have many friends. The Pharisees, who had a great amount of influence over the people, blamed the tax collectors for a certain amount of Judah’s demise. They disliked them as much as the Roman forces occupying their land.

When it seemed everyone arrived, and the meal was about to begin, one of the Pharisees shouting from the courtyard asked His disciples, “Why does your master eat with tax-collectors and sinners?” Jesus could not help but hear the rude interruption. Instead of allowing His disciples to enter into a conversation with the Pharisee, Jesus answered, “the ones who are whole do not need a physician, but the ones who are sick.” He gave them a minute to consider His first remark before continuing, “but go and learn what this is, I will have mercy and not sacrifice. For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”

Jesus went on to explain passages from the book of Hosea. “Return to God, because you have been tried and torn and stricken, but God will heal you. When you follow God, you will know His ways. His word will drop down like rain, and you will see the latter and former rain upon the earth. O Judah, what more shall I do to you? For your goodness is like a morning cloud, and as the early dew that goes away. So I have cut them down by the prophets; I have slain them by the words of My mouth. But your judgments will be as the light that goes forth. For I desired mercy and not sacrifice, and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.” That day Jesus taught them many things about the Kingdom of Heaven, God’s love for everyone including tax collectors. What it means to have mercy and compassion. How respect and love for God is to be shown in all their deeds and actions. Jesus also gave them the promise of salvation and eternal life. From that day forward tax collecting took on a different form.

 

 

 

1 Kings 19:5-8: Elijah Fed by an Angel

1 Kings 19:5-8 KJV And as he lay and slept under a juniper tree, behold, then an angel touched him, and said unto him, Arise and eat. (6) And he looked, and, behold, there was a cake baken on the coals, and a cruse of water at his head. And he did eat and drink, and laid him down again. (7) And the angel of the LORD came again the second time, and touched him, and said, Arise and eat; because the journey is too great for thee. (8) And he arose, and did eat and drink, and went in the strength of that meat forty days and forty nights unto Horeb the mount of God.

 

In this acted parable Elijah finds himself asleep under a juniper tree. He had just been through the highest and lowest day of his life. Elijah was sent by God to challenge the prophets of Baal. In this scene he was out numbered four hundred and fifty to one. As the nation of Israel looked on, the prophets of Baal called out to their god to send down fire from the early morning until the time of the evening sacrifice. Dressed in their priestly attire, Baal’s prophets made a spectacle of themselves jumping, shouting, dancing, chanting, and cutting themselves until they were covered in blood. Elijah sat back and observed with so much confidence in the Lord, he went as far as mocking Baal and his prophets. He asked them if their god was too far away to hear, or possibly sleeping.

As time drew close for the evening sacrifice, Elijah began assembling a broken altar dedicated to God. The mass of bloodied and worn out prophets stood by watching as Elijah surveyed the area. He walked around the area, waiting to hear the still small voice of God he had come to recognize. Twelve large stones were scattered about. As Baal’s prophets observed Elijah’s every move, the sons of Israel also lingered close to the scene. No one stepped forward to offer aid to Elijah. After circling the area a number of times, Elijah chose one stone, setting it in place. He carefully choose the next stone, placing it next to the first one. Everyone stood in silence as Elijah finished the foundation. Now Elijah had to lift the next set of stones to place them upon the first.

Baal’s prophets mumbled amongst themselves, wagering on Elijah’s ability to lift the heavy stones. The setting sun cast shadows on Elijah’s arms highlighting every muscle as they strained against the massive weight of the first stone. The sons of Israel drew closer to witness the display of super human strength. A spark of confidence began to flow through the spectators. At the same time a fire began to burn in Elijah’s heart to match the fire he felt in his body as it strained against the weight. This feat was repeated until all twelve stones were in place.

After the altar was repaired, Elijah began digging a trench around it. This perplexed Israel, and brought out a number of comments from Baal’s prophets. Once the trench was completed, Elijah arranged the wood upon the altar, cut the ox into pieces and arranged in on the wood. Elijah then called for a large amount of water to be poured over the ox, wood, and altar, not once, but three times. With doubts and criticism at an all time high, “Elijah the prophet came near and said, Jehovah, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, let it be known this day that You are God in Israel, and that I am Your servant, and that I have done all these things at Your Word. Hear me, O Jehovah, hear me, that this people may know that You are Jehovah God, and that You have turned their heart back again. And the fire of Jehovah fell and burned up the burnt sacrifice and the wood, and the stones and the dust, and licked up the water that was in the trench.” 1 Kings 18:36-38.

Taking command of the situation Elijah ordered the sons of Israel to take all of Baal’s prophets and slay them at the creek Kishon. After that, Elijah prayed to God to end the drought. God answered Elijah’s prayers and sent signs of fire and rain. This should have been adequate to fill anyone’s faith to overflowing, but one little thing took all of Elijah’s faith and shook it. Threats from one little woman, Jezebel shook all the faith out of Elijah’s heart. In sorrow Elijah went into the wilderness to face his problems by himself. The power of one evil woman can shake the strongest, most confident follower of God.

This is when God sent His angel to touch and speak to Elijah, not once but twice. Was Elijah in a spiritual sleep when the angel touched him? Does this spiritual sleep represent a state in which God’s followers are not listening, or a condition of rest and meditation when His people are prepared to hear His voice? Was the cake and water a form of spiritual food and refreshment prepared and sent from God? Was Elijah exhibiting faith in God when he left on a journey without preparing for it? The angel fed Elijah a second time and told him the journey ahead was too great for him. Was this a physical or a spiritual journey? The food lasted Elijah for forty days and forty nights. Does this have any relationship with other texts with the same time period? Why did God lead Elijah to mount Horeb?

To find the answers to these questions, each word will have to be compared with other texts in the Bible to learn the spiritual interpretations.

 

Slept

Matthew 13:25 KJV But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way.

This is one of the most critically studied parables in the Bible. Jesus tells about an enemy, Satan, who plants weeds among the wheat. This happened while the men slept. Jesus is talking about a spiritual sleep in which His followers were not diligently watching. If we are not in constant study and prayer, Satan can sneak up and plant weeds in our lives, causing all kinds of problems.

Matthew 25:5 KJV While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept.

In this parable Jesus uses the symbol of a bridegroom to represent Himself. He knows His followers will be watching and waiting for a time, but as His return draws near, many will enter into a spiritual sleep. They will not be looking for the signs and wonders He will reveal through His word as His return approaches.

Psalms 3:4-6 MKJV I cried to Jehovah with my voice, and He heard me out of His holy hill. Selah. (5) I laid down and slept. I awoke, for Jehovah kept me. (6) I am not afraid of ten thousands of people who have set against me all around.

Through His prophet David, God assures us, He will hear our voices. God will watch over us even when we enter into a spiritual sleep. In this case, sleep was used to prepare David for the task ahead. God never gives up on His people, but uses different methods to attract our attention. It may be a blessing, or a trial. No matter what the odds, living in God’s perfect love will cast out all fear.

Sleep may a spiritual state in which the mind is not properly focused on God to see the signs he is providing, or it may be a state of preparation for an event that is about to happen. Elijah’s sleep may have been necessary for the forty days and nights of travel he was about to embark on.

 

Cake

Exodus 12:39 KJV And they baked unleavened cakes of the dough which they brought forth out of Egypt, for it was not leavened; because they were thrust out of Egypt, and could not tarry, neither had they prepared for themselves any victual.

Exodus 29:2 KJV And unleavened bread, and cakes unleavened tempered with oil, and wafers unleavened anointed with oil: of wheaten flour shalt thou make them.

Unleavened cakes were used on two occasions, the Passover feast, symbolizing freedom from bondage, both the physical illustrated by Egypt, and the spiritual, representing this sinful world. Unleavened cakes were also prepared as an offering to God in the Tabernacle service. Leaven is another word for yeast, a bacteria used to make bread. Other verses will reveal the spiritual meaning of leaven.

 

Leaven

1 Corinthians 5:7-8 KJV (7) Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us: (8) Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.

Matthew 16:12 KJV Then understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.

The Passover was also a prophecy of Christ’s perfect sacrifice. Unleavened bread eaten before the Passover represented the absence of sin. Leavened bread represents malice and wickedness while unleavened bread represents truth and sincerity, being truthful to your word and promises. Bread represents Jesus. “And Jesus said to them, I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes on Me shall never thirst.” (John 6:35 MKJV). Leaven also represents doctrine, a person’s principle beliefs. The Bible defines two major doctrines, man’s and God’s.

 

Doctrine

Matthew 15:9 MKJV But in vain they worship Me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.”

Romans 16:17-18 MKJV And I exhort you, brothers, to watch those making divisions and offenses contrary to the doctrine which you have learned, and avoid them. (18) For they who are such do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches they deceive the hearts of the simple.

Men’s doctrines, or beliefs do not represent God, nor are they a substitute for worshipping God. They cause divisions and should be avoided. Manmade doctrines are created to serve the people inventing and enforcing them. Manmade doctrines also distract from the true worship of God.

Isaiah 28:9-10 KJV Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts. (10) For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little:

Why did Isaiah ask two questions, “whom shall He teach knowledge, and whom shall He make to understand doctrine?” The questions are phrased as if God is asking if anyone is willing to listen to Him. This refers to the same frame of mind as a spiritual sleep. There is an answer, someone will eventually listen. God would not have asked the question if the answer was, no one. The answer is provided in the same texts. Weaned from the milk, and drawn, or taken away from the breasts refers to a physical and spiritual growth. A baby is totally dependent on the mother for food. Immature Christians are totally dependent on others to spiritually feed them. The real knowledge and understanding God offers is not taught through other people, it is a personal learning experience. The Bible goes on to explain the exact process to follow. Precept upon precept, line upon line refers to comparing scripture with scripture. The Bible is fully capable of explaining itself through the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. (John 16:13 KJV)

2 Timothy 3:16-17 MKJV All Scripture is God-breathed, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, (17) that the man of God may be perfected, thoroughly furnished to every good work.

The entire Bible is from God. Doctrine should not come from any other source. The Bible should be used to prove and correct every source of doctrine. Any and all misleading doctrine will lead away from the perfected state God intended. Only the pure word of God will properly furnish God’s people for the work ahead.

Titus 2:7-8 MKJV In all things having shown yourself a pattern of good works: in the doctrine, purity, sensibleness, without corruption, (8) in sound speech that cannot be condemned, that he who is opposed may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you.

Jesus illustrated this point a number of times. No one knew the heart and true meaning of God’s word like Jesus. When questioned, Jesus would answer with the true meaning of God’s word. The results were always the same. “And he saith unto them, Is it lawful to do good on the Sabbath days, or to do evil? to save life, or to kill? But they held their peace.” (Mark 3:4 KJV)

Proverbs 4:2 KJV For I give you good doctrine, forsake ye not my law.

God’s doctrine is His law, the character of God, pure, sensible, and without corruption.

Matthew 7:28-29 MKJV And it happened, when Jesus had ended these sayings, that the people were astonished at His doctrine. (29) For He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.

John 7:16-18 MKJV Jesus answered them and said, My doctrine is not Mine, but His who sent Me. (17) If anyone desires to do His will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it is of God, or I speak from Myself. (18) He who speaks of himself seeks his own glory, but he who seeks the glory of Him who sent Him is true, and no unrighteousness is in Him.

Jesus made it clear, the only doctrine that His people are to follow is from God. The same doctrine Jesus followed. The people who heard Him speak instantly knew His words were from God, because they were different from the scribes, who sought their own glory. Man’s glory can never measure up to God’s standards. The choice is obvious. The doctrines of men will not glorify God, but will compromise His law.

 

Horeb

Horeb is known as the mountain of God. This is where God chose to speak to Moses at the burning bush. This is where God brought Moses to receive the ten commandments. Moses went to Mount Horeb to meet with God, and hear His word.

Why did Elijah journey to Mount Horeb? A study of the word Horeb illustrates a spiritual journey covering some of the most important events in the Bible. The real surprise is found at the end of the journey through the Old Testament, the final verses. The experience begins with Moses at the burning bush

Exodus 3:1-2 KJV Now Moses kept the flock of Jethro his father in law, the priest of Midian: and he led the flock to the backside of the desert, and came to the mountain of God, even to Horeb. (2) And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush: and he looked, and, behold, the bush burned with fire, and the bush was not consumed.

The scene of the burning bush was the beginning of a series of specific events designed to free the nation of Israel from bondage in Egypt. This was a physical event with many spiritual implications. Freeing Israel from bondage has many spiritual parallels to the second coming of Christ, when He takes all of His followers to the promised land, not made with hands, but built by Christ in Heaven.

Exodus 17:6 MKJV Behold, I will stand before you there upon the rock in Horeb. And you shall smite the rock, and there shall come water out of it, so that the people may drink. And Moses did so in the sight of the elders of Israel.

After wandering the wilderness for a time, God called Moses back to Horeb. This time it was to supply life giving water in a place where none was found. Remember, Horeb means desolate. In the middle of a barren and desolate waste land God intended to teach Israel a lesson. In this illustration God provided physical water to save Israel, their flocks and cattle. The spiritual application is explained in the New Testament, “and all drank the same spiritual drink; for they drank of the spiritual Rock that followed them, and that Rock was Christ.” (1 Corinthians 10:4 MKJV) Christ gave His people life giving spiritual water at the mountain on God. “Jesus answered and said to her, Whoever drinks of this water shall thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst, but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.” (John 4:13-14 MKJV)

Exodus 33:6-14 MKJV And the sons of Israel stripped themselves of their ornaments by Mount Horeb. (7) And Moses took the tabernacle and pitched it outside the camp, afar off from the camp, and called it the tabernacle of the congregation. And it happened, everyone who sought Jehovah went out to the tabernacle of the congregation, which was outside the camp. (8) And it happened as Moses went out to the tabernacle, all the people rose up, and each man stood at his tent door and looked after Moses until he had gone into the tabernacle. (9) And it happened as Moses went into the tabernacle, the cloudy pillar descended and stood at the door of the tabernacle, and Jehovah spoke with Moses. (10) And all the people saw the cloudy pillar stand at the tabernacle door. And all the people rose up and worshiped, each man in his tent door. (11) And Jehovah would speak to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend. And he turned again to the camp. But his servant, Joshua the son of Nun, a young man, did not leave the middle of the tabernacle. (12) And Moses said to Jehovah, Behold, You say to me, Bring up this people. And You have not told me whom You will send with me. Yet You have said, I know you by name, and you have also found grace in My sight. (13) Now therefore, I pray You, if I have found grace in Your sight, make me see now Your ways, that I may know You, that I may find grace in Your sight. And consider that this nation is Your people. (14) And He said, My presence shall go with you, and I will give you rest.

Assembled at the foot of the mountain of God, Mount Horeb, Moses directed the Levites to erect the Tabernacle outside the camp of Israel. This left every individual a choice. To seek God, they would have to display a physical move to His Tabernacle. Those who chose to seek God left the camp and gathered around His Tabernacle. The pillar of cloud which led them on their journey out of Egypt rested at the door of the Tabernacle. Every eye could see the cloud which was a sign of the presence of God, who spoke to Moses as a man speaks to his friend. God was showing His love and care for humanity. Moses asked God to show him His ways so that he could find grace in God’s sight.

Jehovah talked with you face to face in the mountain out of the midst of the fire; (I stood between Jehovah and you at that time, to show you the Word of Jehovah, for you were afraid because of the fire, and did not go up into the mountain,) saying, I am Jehovah your God who brought you out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage. And many people shall go and say, Come, and let us go to the mountain of Jehovah, to the house of the God of Jacob. And He will teach us of His ways, and we will walk in His paths. For out of Zion shall go out the Law, and the Word of Jehovah from Jerusalem. (Deuteronomy 5:4-6 MKJV) (Isaiah 2:3 MKJV)

God calls His people to His Holy Mountain to talk face to face with them, to teach them His ways, His doctrine. To seek the Lord and all His ways you have to know which mountain to worship at. God will provide a physical presence, like the pillar of cloud, to attract attention, direct, and lead. God’s Word and Law are the physical signs He uses to lead His people today.

Deuteronomy 4:10-14 MKJV (10) Remember the day that you stood before Jehovah your God in Horeb, when Jehovah said to me, Gather the people to Me, and I will make them hear My Words so that they may learn to fear Me all the days that they shall live upon the earth, and they may teach their sons. (11) And you came near and stood under the mountain. And the mountain burned with fire to the midst of heaven, with darkness, clouds, and thick darkness. (12) And Jehovah spoke to you out of the midst of the fire. You heard the voice of the words, but saw no likeness, only a voice. (13) And He declared to you His covenant which He commanded you to perform, ten commandments. And He wrote them on two tablets of stone. (14) And Jehovah commanded me at that time to teach you statutes and judgments so that you might do them in the land where you go over to possess it.

God called His people to hear His Words from His own mouth. As all Israel gathered at the base of Mount Horeb, God’s presence gathered upon the peak. Fire and dark clouds of smoke created a scene of awe and wonder. The entire peak appeared to be a single flame as God spoke from the fire. In Exodus 20, God personally gave His law, the ten commandments to His people. God wanted them to witness a scene that would burn the lesson He was about to teach them on their minds and in their hearts so they would never forget. God wanted to leave such an impression so they would teach His commandments to their sons for all generations. Standing at the base of God’s mountain was to be an experience they would never forget. An experience they could not hold in, but had no choice but to share.

God must have known His people would forget, so He called them back to His mountain a second time. This time He wrote His law in stone. This time Moses was called to the top of the mountain of God. Why was God’s law first given vocally, then in stone? What lesson is God teaching here? Why did Moses call Israel together to tell them to remember these events, and remind them they were given the responsibility to teach God’s law to their sons?

Gathering at the mountain of God has many spiritual lessons. We have not begun to scratch the surface. It represents the relationship God wants with His people. Not a corporate relationship, but a personal one. Israel had this opportunity, but turned down God’s offer. “And they said to Moses, You speak with us, and we will hear. But let not God speak with us, lest we die.” (Exodus 20:19 MKJV)

God gave His commandments on His mountain, Jesus explained the ten commandments on a different mountain. “And seeing the multitudes, He went up into a mountain. And when He had sat down, His disciples came to Him. And He opened His mouth and taught them, saying, ….” (Matthew 5:1-2 MKJV)

God also knew His law written upon tables of stone would not be enough for His people to remember His law. Unless they remembered to study His simple law, they would not understand it. So God sent His Son to explain His law. Not only to explain the law, but illustrate the love contained within the law. Deuteronomy 18:15-16 is a prophecy of Jesus.

Deuteronomy 18:15-16 MKJV (15) Jehovah your God will raise up to you a Prophet from the midst of you, of your brothers, One like me. To Him you shall listen, (16) according to all that you desired of Jehovah your God in Horeb in the day of the assembly, saying: Let me not hear again the voice of Jehovah my God, neither let me see this great fire any more, so that I do not die.

Jesus bridged the gap Israel placed between God and His people. The veil in the Tabernacle symbolized this separation. When Jesus gave His life on the cross, “the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom.” (Mark 15:38 MKJV) This reestablished the close, one on one, personal relationship God always intended for His people.

Malachi 4:4-6 MKJV Remember the Law of Moses My servant, which I commanded to him in Horeb for all Israel, the statutes and judgments. (5) Behold, I am sending you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of Jehovah. (6) And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the sons, and the heart of the sons to their fathers, that I not come and strike the earth with utter destruction.

This text has two applications. It warns of the attacks Satan will have on families as the final days draw to a close. Satan’s first attack in the garden was against the family. Man is the image of God. Marriage is an illustration of God’s covenant, His relationship with mankind. Therefore they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.  (Matthew 19:6 MKJV)

This relationship has been exactly what Satan has been attempting to break for nearly seven thousand years. Satan draws his followers by breaking the relationship they have, first the family, then their relationship with God.

This text, the final three verses of the Old Testament, before God’s silence of over four hundred years, begins with the words, “remember the Law.” It is a reminder, God’s law does not change. This reminder is for His followers in the last days, when He will send Elijah the prophet.

Why was Horeb mentioned in the closing statement of the Old testament along with the Elijah? Is this the spiritual journey illustrated by the forty days and nights? The only way to make it through the journey is to eat the spiritual food, God’s word, and drink the spiritual water, Jesus. The only way to eternal life. Without it, all is lost.

 

Deuteronomy 6:4-10 KJV Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD: (5) And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. (6) And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: (7) And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. (8) And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. (9) And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates. (10) And it shall be, when the LORD thy God shall have brought thee into the land which he sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give thee great and goodly cities, which thou buildedst not,

The law is centered first around the family. A sacred trust illustrated by the marriage covenant. Just as God had personally given the law to Israel, the family is to hand down the law to their children. A sign upon your hand, illustrating your works, the example you set in your life, traits you hand down to your children. The eyes represent a spiritual illustration of your mind. Do you really have God’s law on your mind guiding you in all your decisions and actions? God’s Law was written on the door posts of the home. This is where the blood of the Passover lamb was applied, iIllustrating Jesus’ blood covering the law for you, forgiving your sins. The promised land, which is not built with hands, is the place that Jesus prepares for you. “In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.” (John 14:2 MKJV)

And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force. For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John. And if ye will receive it, this is Elias, which was for to come. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. (Matthew 11:12-15 KJV)

God’s Word is clear and true. Given first by His prophets, and later explained by His son. Jesus’ life was also an illustration of God’s Word. God has promised to send Elijah in the last days to remind His people of His law, and bring families together. God has prepared all the Elijah’s of the last days by providing them with the spiritual food and water required for the journey.

Matthew 9:1-8: Jesus Heal a Paralytic

Matthew 9:1-8 MKJV And He entered into a boat, and passed over, and came to His own city. (2) And behold, they brought to Him a paralytic, lying on a bed. And Jesus, seeing their faith, said to the paralytic, Child, be of good cheer. Your sins are forgiven you. (3) And lo, some of the scribes said within themselves, This one blasphemes. (4) And Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, Why do you think evil in your hearts? (5) For which is easier? To say, Your sins are forgiven you, or to say, Arise and walk! (6) But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins, then He said to the paralytic, Arise, take up your bed and go to your house. (7) And he arose and departed to his house. (8) But when the crowds saw, they marveled and glorified God, who had given such authority to men. (Also based on Mark 2:1-12 and Luke 5:17-26.)

 

 

Jesus made His way through the narrow streets, access being even more limited by the people lining both sides, waiting to touch, or see Jesus. At last Jesus and His disciples, followed by a contingency of scribes, arrived at the home of their host for the day. One after another person filed into the house, the owner, Uriah, attempted to greet and accommodate each person. He had expected to host Jesus, His disciples, and a few choice friends. One after another person shoved their way through the doorway, with as many as possible crowding themselves in.

Jesus, His disciples and a few of the scribes reclined at the dinner table. Jesus began to teach the word of God. He told them about Nathan’s message to David, the story of the poor man with one lamb that was taken by the rich man, who served it to his guest. How David felt remorse for his sins when he realized they were not hidden from God. Jesus went into detail, describing the anguish David suffered, as if He was there. At the end of His story Jesus asked, “was David forgiven?

Before partaking of the meal set before them, Uriah asked Jesus to provide a blessing. Jesus praised His Father as Creator and God of all, thanked Him for the food before them, and asked for a special blessing for all those present.

Dozens more crowded themselves in Uriah’s house. Try as he could, Uriah had no way to serve his unexpected guest, there was not enough food, or room to move. All he could do was take the food placed on the table and politely ask those at the front to pass it to the back.

Unexpectedly pieces of the ceiling began falling on the table. Looking up at the ceiling in surprise, some of the disciples stood up along side the scribes, looking as if an impeding doom was about to come crashing down on them. Expecting the worst some of the guests tried making their way to the door in an attempt to exit the small home. The house was so tightly packed, it was impossible to move more than a few feet. Jesus remained seated on the floor before the table observing the crowd.

Soon it became evident someone was on the roof removing tiles directly over the table. Thinking it was a few spectators attempting to gain a view of Jesus, the tension calmed. Much to their surprise, the men on the roof began lowering a fifth man down with ropes attached to a bed. The disciples began clearing off the table in front of Jesus to make room for the man. As he was lowered, it became evident the man was paralyzed.

The man laid motionless in front of Jesus, his head turned to face his Savior with a big toothless grin on his face. It seemed as if seeing Jesus’ face was all the man was looking for. Jesus looked into the eyes of the man for a moment as if looking into his heart. Looking up at the ceiling Jesus witnessed another four grins as happy and hopeful as the one in front of him. Looking back at the poor paralyzed man, Jesus said, “Child, your sins are forgiven to you.” Jesus closed His eyes as He offered a silent prayer to His Father, asking that He may be glorified. As He prayed He could hear some of the scribes whispering among themselves. “Why does this one speak such blasphemies? Who can forgive sins except God only?” Opening His eyes, Jesus answered, “Why do you think evil in your hearts? For which is easier? To say, Your sins are forgiven you, or to say, Arise and walk! But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins, Arise, take up your bed and go to your house.“

The scribes sat, stroking their beards while studying the paralyzed man. Each pair of eyes trained on a different part of the motionless body. As the moments passed, they grew more hopeful Jesus had finally made a mistake. They could not wait to expose Him. Just as the head scribe was beginning to speak, “ahhhh,” the paralyzed man moved one finger. The room grew silent as every eye in the room focused on the tiny twitch. Only God knows how many prayers were sent up to Heaven in the few short minutes that passed. The twitch of a single finger became a closing and opening hand, then both. The man sat up, all the time smiling, and now added a laugh. The man turned his body around upon the table, placing his feet on the floor he stroked up and down both legs, as if he had to feel them to know they were real. He stood up, turned around, grabbed his bed, and holding it over his head in a show of triumph, then turned back to the door. Amazingly a path had opened for him from the table to the door. As he passed the guests in the house, the opening behind him closed. As soon as the man was outside, people began praising God. “Who had given such authority to men? We never saw it this way. We saw wonderful things today.”

Noticing they had not eaten, and the food was gone, the scribes began complaining about the accommodations and hospitality provided by Uriah. They stood up, and slowly shuffled out of the house one by one. Others took their place in front of Jesus, as He began to teach again.

While Jesus was teaching inside, dozens outside recognized the single man exiting the house. Comments began as questions, “is that the man we saw carried up on the roof? Is that the paralyzed man we saw carried through the streets? Was that Joshua, the beggar near the gate? Wasn’t he paralyzed?” The Spirit did not let the presence of the paralytic go unnoticed while his friends searched for a way into the house. Questions soon became praises.

The toothless man was healed. As he danced through the streets, new legs were not the only thing he was celebrating. Jesus’ words grew inside his heart. He knew his sins were forgiven. As his four friends caught up to him, Joshua exclaimed with joy, “my sins have been forgiven, and I can walk again.” Joshua spent the next few hours telling his friends what it felt like to be forgiven. He spent the next few years learning from Jesus, and the rest of his life telling everyone he met about the joy forgiveness brought to his heart. His physical healing was a gift he did not take for granted, but dedicated his new legs to teaching others about God’s love, Jesus’ power to forgive sins, and the spiritual healing it brings to everyone.