Matthew 12:43-45: Unclean Spirit

Matthew 12:43-45 KJV When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none. (44) Then he saith, I will return into my house from whence I came out; and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished. (45) Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first. Even so shall it be also unto this wicked generation.

 

Well after sunset, while Jesus was listening to His disciples discussing the events of the day, a man dressed in rich apparel came to Him, begging for relief. “Master, you have to help me. I have not been able to sleep for weeks. My mind seems to be going. I cannot focus an anything. I have headaches which last for days. I have tried everything, talked to everyone, no one, or nothing seems to help. What is wrong with me?”

Jesus didn’t say a word. He looked the man over from head to toe. He could tell this man was well to do. Based on his dress and the manner in which everything matched, and accented, Jesus could tell the man still had his wits about him.

After a long pause of silence, the man began questioning Jesus again, his gold bracelets chiming through the night air as he gestured with his hands and arms to emphasize his point. “Are you going to answer me? Is there a reason you will not acknowledge me? I know you helped others. I’ve heard the stories about you. Are they true? I thought you would help anyone.” Jesus asked a question, “are you willing to believe?” The man answered, “believe what? What am I supposed to believe, that you can heal? I wouldn’t have come here if I didn’t think you could heal me. Do you know what it would do to my reputation if people knew I was here to see you? Do you know who you are dealing with? I can help you more than you can imagine.” Jesus asked, “who is it I am dealing with? What is your name?” The man answered, “I am Machi.”

Jesus turned to His disciples and asked, “do you think this man is ready to be healed?” As if knowing the answer, His disciples held their peace. None of them wanted to answer the inevitable question. Jesus turned to Machi and asked, “have your sins been forgiven?” Machi looked at Jesus with a mixture of anticipation, guilt, and doubt. He had heard stories about Jesus claiming to have the ability to forgive sins. Machi thought to himself, what sins do I have that need to be forgiven? As he looked into Jesus’ eyes his mind began to wonder over some of his business transactions, the manner in which he treated his servants and hired workers. Machi quickly looked away, and replied, “I know I need forgiveness, can you forgive me?”

Jesus kept looking at Machi, but could not make eye contact. Finally He said, “according to the willingness of your heart, your sins are forgiven. You know what needs to be done. Go in peace, you have been set free.”

Machi thanked Jesus, and held out his hand with four silver coins he had set aside before the meeting. Jesus continued to look at his face, while Machi tried to avoid direct eye contact. After a few moments, Judas slide forward, holding his hand under Machi’s to accept the coins. Machi thanked Jesus again, turned and walked away into the night.

Abidan and Deborah were at a loss for words as they watched a group of men remove their possessions from their meager home. It consisted of only one small room, but at least it was a roof over their heads. Deborah held Prisca, the youngest at six months in her arms. The others, Demas, Linus, and Mark, two, four, and six years old, gathered tightly around her. All Abidan could do is hold his wife in an attempt to comfort her.

Seven months ago Abidan accepted a job promising fair wages, a house, and hope for the future. With another baby on the way, Abidan wanted to build a new life with security for his family. Instead he found his hours and duties extended, wages reduced, and now, the house he was promised was given to a family with older sons, a fresh, low cost source of labor for the landlord.

Abidan waited for the men to leave before packing their possessions on the tiny cart they had purchased to move to their new home. His mind went over the long hours he had worked without complaints and the way he had been treated. His wages were changed a number of times. The landlord charged for food and provisions they had never received. Machi accused Abidan of visiting the fields, vineyards, and orchards at night to gather food for his family. Machi set a value, added interest, and deducted it from Adidan’s wages. This left him little, or nothing to live on. Now with winter coming on, he found himself in a much worse situation than the one they left.

It began raining before Abidan finished loading the cart. They had no advance notice before being evicted from their home. Abidan sent up a silent prayer, wondering where his family was going to spend the night. As they headed down the rode, the sun set, the rain picked up, and the temperatures dropped. They walked along the road for more than an hour before Abidan decided to seek some shelter under a tree, which offered little resistance to the driving rain. Adidan did his best to make a temporary shelter from a carpet and a few limbs from the tree. At least it offered some protection from the driving rain.

Sleep did not come easy for Abidan or Deborah that night. They spent the entire night in silence, doing the best they could to cover the children, protecting them from the rain with their bodies. The storm had moved to the east during the night. The storm clouds on the horizon made for a spectacular sunrise, as flashes of lightening and the distant crash of thunder could still be heard. Abidan wondered if it was a sign of God’s displeasure with something he had done. Gazing into the distance Abidan prayed silently to God.

Deborah waited for Abidan to stir, indicating he was now ready to talk, before asking him, “what are we going to do?” Abidan continued gazing into the distance as he answered, “I don’t know. We don’t have enough money to stay at an inn, and I do not think anyone living on the villa will consider housing us.” The morning silence was broken by first a sneeze, than a mumbled cry from little Prisca. Deborah held the baby near to feed her as Adidan rummaged through the cart to find something for breakfast, he knew Demas, Linus, and Mark would wake up hungry.

After breakfast little Prisca began sneezing and crying. Deborah felt her forehead and called Abidan over. It seemed Prisca was running a fever, which made finding shelter all that more important. Abidan sat down, once again staring into the distance. After a moment he spoke up. “I was going to suggest we head back home. I know we could live with my parents until I found work, but it is a four day trip. I am not sure Prisca would be up for such a trip, and what will we do if it rains again, or gets colder?” Deborah suggested, “what if we go back to Machi? We could beg him for your job back and a place to stay. I am certain, once he sees our situation, he would be willing to help. Even if we sleep in the barn,, it would be better than spending another night outside.” Abidan agreed, “we have no other choice at this point. We can at least labor for Machi until Prisca is well enough to travel, and we can properly plan a trip.”

As they walked down the muddy rode, Abidan spoke a prayer out load for God and his family to hear. “Lord, you know our needs. You know the service I have provided, and you know what is in my heart. Lord we ask that you prepare the way for us, so that we see your will be done.”

As they entered the gate at the villa, many of the workers gave Abidan and his family a warm welcome. Some of them asked why he was pulling a loaded cart. Abidan did not want to answer, but quickly changed the subject. At last they reached Machi’s large house, and requested a meeting. After a long wait of more than an hour, the servant returned. “Machi is very busy today. Can you come back in the morning?” A lump grew in Abidan’s throat when he heard the reply. After a moment he composed himself and asked, “since we have to wait until morning, is there any place my family and I can spend the night?” The servant replied, “I will ask.” He turned and walked back into the house. After a short wait, the servant returned to announce, “all the quarters are filled. You are welcome to ask if anyone is able to put you up for the night.”

Abidan felt crushed. There was no one he could think of at the moment who may be able to help him. Sadly he walked back to his family to share the news. Just as he was about to explain the situation he heard someone shout his name. Turning around he saw Mark, one of the other servants who helped him become aquatinted with his chores and the layout of the villa when he first arrived. Mark came up to him, greeting Abidan with a more than welcome hug. After Abidan explained the situation, Mark declared, “there is no problem, you and your family are more than welcome to stay with me for a few days. Martha and the children are away visiting her mother at the time.” Abidan answered with an instant, “praise the Lord, bless you Mark. You certainly are an answer to prayer.”

On the way to the house Prisca developed a cough. The warmth of a fire and cozy house was a welcome thought, and answer to prayer. Once inside the house Deborah unwrapped Prisca, instantly realizing she was running a very high fever. Deborah asked Mark if he could warm some water to bath the baby. Mark was more than happy to oblige.

Prisca cried throughout her bath, and continued through dinner. After the previous night the tiny house seemed like a palace, the meager meal seemed like a feast. Abidan and Deborah were not at a loss to show their gratitude, and would have enjoyed the hospitality more if it were not for the deteriorating condition Prisca displayed. That evening she was the focus of family prayer.

In the morning Abidan headed out of the house before the others awoke. He wanted to arrive early for his audience with Machi. He arrived more than a half hour early, rehearsing every word along the way, and remained in constant prayer. The morning activities on the villa had not yet begun when he arrived and knocked on the door. A few minutes later a servant arrived asking Abidan the nature of his business. Adidan responded, “I have an audience with Machi first thing in the morning, I hope I am not too early.” The servant replied, “he is still sleeping, you will have to wait.” Recognizing Adidan as a hired hand based on his dress, the servant closed the door behind him. Abidan sat down with his back against the wall expecting a long wait.

After a time, Abidan dozed off. Prisca’s crying and coughing had kept him up most of the night. He was startled out of his slumber when the door opened. It was only a servant going to fetch the morning supply of water for bathing and cooking. A series of trips to and from the well kept Abidan from dozing off again. Finally after more than a two hour wait the door opened and the head servant poked his head out. Abidan scrambled to his feet. The servant said, “Machi will see you now.”

Abidan was taken back by the size of the home and the splendor of its decor with an array of stone statues, bronze pieces, and expensive weavings hanging from the walls. Abidan had never seen such a home. The servant led him to the dining room where Machi was being served his breakfast. His wife and two young children, a boy and girl were also present. Abidan bowed himself low to the ground and waited for Machi to acknowledge his presence. “And what can I do for you?” Abidan rose to his feet. “Master, I have worked for you for nearly seven months. Yesterday we were asked to leave the home you have been renting to us as part of my wages. I do not know why we were asked to leave, I am hoping this has only been an oversight.” Machi dining on a few pieces of fruit barely made eye contact. He sucked the juice from his fingers, dried them on a linen napkin, looked up at Abidan and said, “I usually do not deal with such matters. I will have to consult with my head taskmaster in a day or so to look after into the matter.” Abidan responded with desperation in his voice. “Do you have any work for me and a place to stay? We were invited to spend the night at Mark’s home last night.” Machi quickly snapped back. “You spent the night on my property without my permission? You show your lack of respect by taking advantage of my hospitality, then you come in here begging for a job. How do you expect me to react to this? If I allowed you to stay on my land for free every free loader in the province will take advantage of my kind nature. You will have to find other living arrangements while I look into this matter.” In shock Abidan relied, “my little daughter, only six months old has a cough and a fever. We spent the night outside in the rain the other day and now she is sick.” Machi instantly snapped back, “if my taskmaster saw fit to release you of your duties, I am certain he had a very good reason.” With that, Machi waved his hand as a jester to have Abidan removed. On his way out Abidan pleaded, “master have mercy, if not for me, for my little one. Please sir, we can stay in the barn, or any where. I can work all day for one night lodging.” His pleading did no good at all. Machi had already decided the matter before his meeting, which was little more than a formality.

Abidan felt crushed. His heart sank inside of him. Two servants accompanied him to make certain he immediately vacated Mark’s house. Once again Abidan and his family were turned out into the street. Without saying a word, Abidan pulled the cart along the road headed for his parent’s home, four days away. With only two days worth of food and little money despair began to set it.

They walked nearly a mile before Deborah come to him, placing her free arm around him and asked, “where are we going?” She already knew the answer, buy could not think of another way of getting Abidan to open up. He responded, “to papa and momma’s house. We have no other choice.” Deborah could tell he did not want to talk at the moment, she only added, “by God’s will.

They walked all day without taking a break. The brave little boys could sense something was wrong, so they followed along in silence for the entire day. At sunset Abidan turned into a clearing along the road, put down the rails on the cart, and collapsed on the ground. Deborah handed little Prisca to Demas to hold while she gathered some dry bread, a few dried figs, and water from the cart. She spread the carpet out on the ground, and gathered the blankets. She went over to Abidan, held his hand and said, “this is not your fault. I know you are a hard working, honest man, and you did all you could do. Come let’s eat.” After blessing the food, they began eating. Deborah felt Prisca’s forehead, which was burning up. She also noticed her short labored breathing, her crying had stopped. Deborah tried feeding Prisca, but she seemed to tired, or too week to eat. Now it was Deborah who began crying. Abidan held her in his arms asking, “what is wrong?” Deborah answered, “it is little Prisca, she is so sick.” Abidan offered what little comfort he could give, “we will have to wrap up in the blankets tonight to stay warm.” Now that the sun had set, the temperature quickly dropped. It did not take long for all of them to fall asleep.

The long journey had taken its toll. The entire family slept so soundly no one stirred until they were awakened by the sound of a passing caravan. Abidan propped himself up on one arm to view the passing spectacle. Deborah stirred for a moment before opening her eyes. Little Prisca was bundled up next to her. As she pulled back the scarf covering Prisca’s face, she let out a scream. She could instantly tell by the lifeless look on Prisca’s face, she had passed away during the night. Abidan jumped to his feet as Deborah let out a series of painful wails. Some of the men from the caravan rushed over to offer aid. There was nothing they could do as they looked over at Deborah holding the lifeless body of her child.

Machi paced back and forth in furious anticipation. “Where is that caravan? They were supposed to be here by nightfall and they are now a day late. They are supposed to deliver my wife’s anniversary presents and the day is almost over. If they are not here soon, heads are going to roll.” Machi stormed into the house shouting out a series of senseless orders and commands, taking his frustration out on whomever was within eyesight and the sound of his voice. Shortly after sunset a servant announced the caravan had arrived. In a furious rage Machi went to the caravan master to demand an explanation. “What took you so long? You had better have a good reason for being late. I gave you specific orders to be here on time. You were supposed to be here yesterday.” The caravan master simply replied, “we had to stop and help bury a little baby. A young couple we met along the road, Abidan and Deborah just lost their baby, Prisca. The least we could do for them was to escort them to the town we had just left and make certain proper burial arrangements could be made. They had no money, so I paid for the services.”

Machi stood with a shocked look on his face, his mouth hanging wide open. The rage in his eyes turned to fear. He could not find a single word to say, he turned and walked to the house in a quickened pace.

His demon had been waiting for a moment like this, waiting in the back ground of the struggle between right and wrong. He know exactly when to strike and how. The demon was so sure Machi would fall, be brought along seven other demons more crafty than himself. His demon announced, “it is time for us to take back what is ours. This is our world, and we will not give up anything without a fight.” The first demon had already been working on his wife.

Machi slammed the door behind him. The entire house knew he was in a rage, and were smart enough to stay out of his way. Machi stomped through the living room, dining room, and down the hall to his room where he found his wife packing cloths, jewelry, and all of the money on hand.

Machi demanded, “what are you doing?” Judith snapped back, “I am leaving, you can’t even remember our anniversary. I am going home.” Machi relied, “you can’t do that. You know you can’t.” Judith shot back, “I can do whatever I please. You know you would be nothing without my father and his money. And both of them are leaving with me, not to mention the children. All you ever cared about was your money.”

The conversation reminded Machi of the anniversary presents outside on the caravan. He quickly left the room to retrieve them. Heading back outside he found himself staring at an empty court. “Where did the caravan go?” Machi shouted for his servants, but all of them had vacated the area in an attempt to avoid his wrath. Machi ran around to the other side of the house to see if he could find the caravan. As he stopped, he realized, they were supposed to transport the harvest to market. Not only had he lost the merchandise he already paid for, he now had no way of transporting his goods to market.

Over the next few days everything that could go wrong did go wrong. After hearing about Prisca, most of his workers left for other jobs. After hearing the news of his wife leaving, creditors would have nothing to do with him. Machi could not pay another merchant to transport or take his crops. He watched as his harvested crops rotten on the ground, while fruits ripened on the vine and trees and fell to the ground.

After only a few weeks Machi’s villa was over run by mice. It did nothing to relieve the pain of wondering the large home alone. He could not get his mind off his wife and the memory of his children. While they were present he had no idea how to show his appreciation. Now he would give his life just to see them again.

With no income he could not pay his employees. Because of the way he treated them, not one had any reason to stay. Machi could not figure out why they did not display any type loyalty. Chores went undone. Machi had to figure out how to make meals on his own. He could not sleep. The chamber pots went untouched. The entire house developed a most unpleasant smell, which attracted hordes of flies. Machi was alone watching his home, income, villa, and life fall apart before his eyes. He wondered what he had done to deserve such a curse.

Matthew 12:38-42: Show us a Sign

Matthew 12:38-42 MKJV Then certain of the scribes and of the Pharisees answered, saying, Master, we want to see a sign from you. (39) But He answered and said to them, An evil and adulterous generation seeks after a sign. And there shall be no sign given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah. (40) For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the huge fish, so the Son of Man shall be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. (41) The men of Nineveh shall rise in judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it, because they repented at the proclaiming of Jonah, and behold, One greater than Jonah is here. (42) The queen of the south shall rise up in the Judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it, for she came from the uttermost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and behold, One greater than Solomon is here.

 

At times God presents a word with so much meaning, it is hard explain everything it represents in human words. In this instance, the word is, “then.” At first the word may appear as unassuming, with little or no spiritual meaning. When the context is considered in regards to the intended lesson, that one word is found to have an abundance of meaning.

Then…. Consider the circumstances based on the context. The Pharisees are asking for a sign from Jesus. This must have broken His heart. Words cannot express the sorrow Jesus felt at that moment. He had already healed thousands, raised people from the dead, taught God’s Word and His love in towns, villages, cities, along the shore, in the fields, and from a mountain top. The Pharisees had seen the lame walk, the deaf hear, the dumb talk, the blind see, and the dead rise, and they continued to ask for a sign. Jesus also introduced them to His parables, simple lessons taught using symbols easily explained by the Old testament writings to those willing to seek guidance from the Holy Spirit.

The Pharisees thought of themselves as experts in the study of the Word. They felt they were the ultimate authority in matters concerning God’s Word. Their pride blinded them to the simple truth. God knew this was going to be a problem, because He had seen it in the past. “And He said, Go, and tell this people, You hear indeed, but do not understand; and seeing you see, but do not know. Make the heart of this people fat, and make their ears heavy, and shut their eyes; lest they see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their hearts, and turn back, and be healed. (Isaiah 6:9-10 MKJV)

After witnessing Jesus’ miracles and signs, they could not see how God was pouring down His love, so the Pharisees had no way of returning it. Their pride had convinced them, if God was going to act, He would act through them, and only them. Their hearts had become so hardened, they believed God would only provide His blessings through them.

Jesus already knew the answer, but He hesitated long enough to pray that the Spirit would reach their hearts with the understanding they needed at that moment. Jesus knew the Pharisees intent, how they were once again attempting to lay a trap for Him. “But He answered and said to them, An evil and adulterous generation seeks after a sign. And there shall be no sign given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah.” Jesus had hoped the Pharisees could see the lesson of a reluctant prophet Jonah, sent to save a nation. No matter how, or where he tried to run, God had a way of calling him back to complete the task God had for him. But the Pharisees refused to look at the bigger picture, so Jesus continued, “For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the huge fish, so the Son of Man shall be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.”

Once again Jesus tried to direct their minds back to God’s Holy Word. Once again Jesus had hoped they would study His Word, and learn the lessons it contained. Jesus knew, the only hope of reaching them would occur only if they would open their hearts to the scriptures, and discover the simple lessons for themselves. Jesus had hoped they could see the sign He was giving them. If they could understand the symbolism of the sea, they may be able to understand the role they were about to play in Jesus’ death. “Woe to the multitude of many people, who make a noise like the noise of the seas; and to the rushing of nations who make a rushing like the rushing of mighty waters!” (Isaiah 17:12 MKJV)

If they had known and understood what a sea represented, they would have understood the prophecy Jesus was pointing them to.

And Jonah prayed to Jehovah his God out of the fish’s belly, and he said, I cried to Jehovah from my distress. And He answered me. Out of the belly of Sheol I cried for help, and You heard my voice. For You cast me into the depths of the seas, and the current surrounded me. All Your breakers and Your waves passed over me. Then I said, I am cast off from Your eyes, yet I will look again toward Your holy temple. Waters encompassed me, even to the soul; the depth closed around me; the seaweed was bound to my head. I went down to the bottoms of the mountains; the earth with her bars was around me forever; yet You have brought up my life from the pit, O Jehovah my God. When my soul fainted within me, I remembered Jehovah; and my prayer came in to You, into Your holy temple. They who take heed to lying vanities forsake their kindness; but I will sacrifice to You with the voice of thanksgiving; I will fulfill that which I have vowed. Salvation belongs to Jehovah! (Jonah 2:1-9 MKJV)

Jesus had hoped the Pharisees would review the prophecy of Jonah and compare it to other similar prophecies in David, and Isaiah.

Many bulls have circled around Me; strong bulls Of Bashan have surrounded Me. They opened wide their mouths on Me, like a ripping and a roaring lion. I am poured out like water, and all My bones are spread apart; My heart is like wax; it is melted in the midst of My bowels. My strength is dried up like a potsherd, and My tongue clings to My jaws; and You have brought Me into the dust of death. For dogs have circled around Me; the band of spoilers have hemmed Me in, piercers of My hands and My feet. I can count all My bones; they look and stare at Me. They divide My garments among them and cast lots for My clothing. But You, O Jehovah, be not far from Me; O My strength, hurry to help Me! (Psalms 22:12-19 MKJV)

He was oppressed, and He was afflicted; yet He opened not His mouth. He is brought as a lamb to the slaughter; and as a sheep before its shearers is dumb, so He opened not His mouth. He was taken from prison and from judgment; and who shall declare His generation? For He was cut off out of the land of the living; for the transgression of My people He was stricken. And He put His grave with the wicked, and with a rich one in His death; although He had done no violence, nor was any deceit in His mouth. (Isaiah 53:7-9 MKJV)

Because the Pharisees claimed the role of interpreting God’s Word, they were granted the opportunity to share it with the world. Their claims held them to a high standard. Their job was to prepare the world for the coming Savior, Jesus Christ, instead they misinterpreted the scriptures, changed and rewrote them to benefit themselves in an attempt to control the thoughts and minds of their followers. The Pharisees wanted to be accepted as mediators between the Jews and God. The Pharisees could not understand the role of Christ as a servant. In their pursuit to elevate themselves, they missed the message of Jesus, the true mediator. Jesus tried to explain this to them by using the example Jonah set. “The men of Nineveh shall rise in judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it, because they repented at the proclaiming of Jonah, and behold, One greater than Jonah is here.”

Jonah was not the perfect prophet. He delivered the message he was given, but was reluctant to accept it himself. His heart was not in his work, but the Holy Spirit was still able to reach the Ninevites. The Pharisees had the same message, but in the same fashion refused to deliver it to the world. They decided it was only for the Jews. Jesus knew, if only the Pharisees would accept the message they were given, there may still be hope for them.

In the mind of the Parisees, Jesus’ claim of being greater than Jonah included all of the prophets. This greatly offended the Pharisees, who were blind to the fact, gentiles also played a role in Jewish history. To point out this fact, Jesus reminded them of another story. “The queen of the south shall rise up in the Judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it, for she came from the uttermost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and behold, One greater than Solomon is here.”

Jesus intentionally answered their request for a sign with two parables, each teaching a lesson about God’s love for gentiles. God sent a prophet to warn Nineveh about the impeding doom. If they did not understand the lessons taught in that story, Jesus reminded them, Solomon was in love with a gentile woman while he ruled Israel. In both instances, God’s word was shared and accepted by gentiles. How different may things have been if the Pharisees had opened and read the scriptures Jesus had referred to? What deep and lasting lessons may have been learned if pride would have been laid aside for an hour, and their hearts had been open to the Holy Spirit?

Matthew 12:30-37: Blasphemy Against the Holy Spirit

Matthew 12:30-37 MKJV The one who is not with Me is against Me, and the one who does not gather with Me scatters. (31) Therefore I say to you, All kinds of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven to men, but the blasphemy against the Holy Spirit shall not be forgiven to men. (32) And whoever speaks a word against the Son of Man, it shall be forgiven him. But whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit, it shall not be forgiven him, either in this world or in the world to come. (33) Either make the tree good and its fruit good, or else make the tree corrupt and its fruit corrupt; for the tree is known by its fruit. (34) Offspring of vipers! How can you, being evil, speak good things? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. (35) A good man out of the good treasure of the heart brings out good things; and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings out evil things. (36) But I say to you that every idle word, whatever men may speak, they shall give account of it in the day of judgment. (37) For by your words you shall be justified, and by your words you shall be condemned.

 

Jesus began studying the scriptures at a very young age. His secret to understanding the deep hidden meaning of the scriptures was His total reliance on the Holy Spirit, and His understanding of the heart of the Word.

Jesus knew every one of God’s written Words was a reflection of His character, a reflection of His love and concern for humanity. If only the world knew the time, effort, and planning invested in God’s plan to redeem this fallen planet. So much is said and written about Jesus’ physical sacrifice, which was necessary for the payment of sin, but few can see, or experience the spiritual messages of salvation meant to teach and encourage God’s people.

Jesus knew the precise plan He had made with His Father long before He came to this world. Each detail was carefully recorded in the scriptures for Jesus to read, understand, and teach. Before Jesus began His ministry He was certain of the plan, and the effect it would have on this world. Early in His ministry Jesus warned, “The one who is not with Me is against Me, and the one who does not gather with Me scatters.” Jesus knew how to gather, and how man made doctrines had scattered people and their beliefs. “My people have been lost sheep; their shepherds have caused them to go astray; they have turned them away on the mountains. They have gone from mountain to hill; they have forgotten their resting place.” (Jeremiah 50:6 MKJV)

Jesus knew how the Holy Spirit revealed the true meaning of the scriptures. He dedicated His life to learning the heart of God’s word. “Therefore I say to you, All kinds of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven to men, but the blasphemy against the Holy Spirit shall not be forgiven to men.” Watching from Heaven, Jesus had seen how traditions and doctrines had taken the place of God’s pure and Holy Word. “So says Jehovah, As the new wine is found in the cluster, and one says, Do not destroy it, for a blessing is in it; so I will do to My servants, that I may not destroy them all.” (Isaiah 65:8 MKJV)

Jesus did not come to destroy the established Jewish religion, but to show them the errors of their ways. To turn them once again to the heart and understanding of God. The only way to do this was to put away their traditions and doctrines, and study God’s pure Word. Jesus knew the task would not be easy. He knew there would be opposition along the way. “And whoever speaks a word against the Son of Man, it shall be forgiven him. But whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit, it shall not be forgiven him, either in this world or in the world to come.”

Jesus could see the consistency of God’s Word. Each symbol was used in a specific manner and form. Because God wrote the scriptures, there could be no mistake or contradiction. Because of this Jesus knew everything He said must be perfectly consistent with the existing scriptures. All the symbols must be in perfect order, and everything must agree with what was written before. Not only must scripture be consistent, it had to be written in a plain and simple form in which everyone could read and understand. “Then those fearing Jehovah spoke together, each man to his neighbor. And Jehovah listened and heard. And a book of remembrance was written before Him for those who feared Jehovah, and for those esteeming His name. And they shall be Mine, says Jehovah of Hosts, for the day that I will make up My treasure. And I will pity them as a man has pity on his son who serves him. Then you shall again see the difference between the righteous and the wicked, between him who serves God, and him who does not serve Him.” (Malachi 3:16-18 MKJV)

God used simple, everyday symbols to explain each message. Jesus learned this system and used it in all His parables. Each parable spoken by Jesus was perfectly consistent, and explained by existing scripture.

The use of symbols was used and explained early in God’s Word. “And the earth was without form and empty. And darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved on the face of the waters.” (Genesis 1:2 MKJV). God used water as a symbol of His Spirit and the fact it covered the earth, all of it. Even in darkness the Spirit of God reached every corner of this world.

Later God used the symbol of a burning bush to represent Himself. 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. (Exodus 3:2 KJV). The use of simple symbols continued and expanded as God influenced Moses, and His other prophets to use and record God’s symbols and their meaning. David explained how God used a tree to represent a man. “Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.” (Psalms 1:1-3 KJV).

Jesus’ knowledge and understanding of the scriptures through the guidance of the Holy Spirit allowed Him to use these symbols in the parables He used to teach. “Either make the tree good and its fruit good, or else make the tree corrupt and its fruit corrupt; for the tree is known by its fruit.” Jesus knew the connection between physical fruit, the portion of the tree which brings food, nourishes, and contains seed for future generations, and the human heart. “I the LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings. A man’s belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled. The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.” (Jeremiah 17:10, Proverbs 18:20, Proverbs 11:30 KJV).

As Jesus’ parable explained, there are good trees associated with good fruit, and corrupt trees which of course produce corrupt fruit. To further explain the serious nature of following a corrupt path, Jesus added the symbol of a viper. “Offspring of vipers! How can you, being evil, speak good things? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” Jesus chose a viper as a symbol for a reason. The word viper is found in scriptures only a few times. Jesus wanted His audience to understand His parables, so He made it as simple as possible to unlock the spiritual meaning. In this case, the word viper should have lead them to Isaiah.

Behold, the LORD’S hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear: But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear. For your hands are defiled with blood, and your fingers with iniquity; your lips have spoken lies, your tongue hath muttered perverseness. None calleth for justice, nor any pleadeth for truth: they trust in vanity, and speak lies; they conceive mischief, and bring forth iniquity. They hatch cockatrice’ eggs, and weave the spider’s web: he that eateth of their eggs dieth, and that which is crushed breaketh out into a viper. (Isaiah 59:1-5 KJV)

Whenever Jesus refers to scripture, it explains His message in far greater detail. This was Jesus’ plan, to turn the hearts of the people back to the Father, back to His Word. This is also the intent of all of Jesus’ parables. Not only does Isaiah provide the spiritual meaning of a viper, he also explains how people became separated from God.

Throughout His parables Jesus gave His audience a choice. The choice is between good and evil, right and wrong, God and Satan. Jesus provided common examples designed to be easily understood and followed. “A good man out of the good treasure of the heart brings out good things; and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings out evil things.”

As with most of His parables, Jesus also provided a set of inevitable consequences. Jesus wanted people to understand, one day everyone will be judged, and the results will be permanent. “But I say to you that every idle word, whatever men may speak, they shall give account of it in the day of judgment. For by your words you shall be justified, and by your words you shall be condemned.”

Jesus wanted those listening and reading to carefully consider the instructions and consequences. What was the result for the priests, scribes, and Pharisees relying on their own knowledge to interpret Jesus’ parables? Did their understanding explain the real meaning of this, or any other parable? What does Jesus mean when He said, ” by your words you shall be justified, and by your words you shall be condemned?” As with all things, the Bible explains the proper use of words. “The Spirit of the LORD spake by me, and his word was in my tongue.” (2 Samuel 23:2 KJV).

The proper words are always supplied by God’s Spirit through His Word. “Seek Jehovah while He may be found; call on Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return to Jehovah, and He will have mercy on him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon. For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor your ways My ways, says Jehovah. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts. For as the rain comes down, and the snow from the heavens, and does not return there, but waters the earth, and makes it bring out and bud, and give seed to the sower and bread to the eater; so shall My Word be, which goes out of My mouth; it shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish what I please, and it shall certainly do what I sent it to do.” (Isaiah 55:6-11 MKJV)

Matthew 12:22-28: If Satan casts out Satan

Matthew 12:22-28 MKJV Then one who had been demon-possessed was brought to Him, blind and dumb. And He healed him, so much so that the blind and dumb one both spoke and saw. (23) And all the people were amazed and said, Is not this the son of David? (24) But when the Pharisees heard, they said, This one does not cast out demons except by Beelzebub the ruler of the demons. (25) And Jesus knew their thoughts and said to them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation. And every city or house divided against itself shall not stand. (26) And if Satan casts out Satan, he is divided against himself; how then shall his kingdom stand? (27) But if I cast out demons by Beelzebub, by whom do your sons cast them out? Therefore they shall be your judges. (28) But if I cast out demons by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God has come to you.

 

The young boy had a smile that could melt the hardest heart. His big brown eyes and dark curly hair added to his attractive features. He was loved by everyone in the neighborhood, and his mother had few worries when he went out to play or explore.

Although he had many blessings, life had also given him curses. He was born blind and dumb. He never met his father, who left shortly after his birth. He could not bear the chastisement and speculations of society, wondering why his son was born blind and dumb.

The other children treated him fairly. They included him in their games in any capacity they could think of. His best friend was a little girl about his age, who often took him on walks, painting pictures with words of all the scenes along the way, handing him items to touch, and describing each one. The little boy’s world was filled with a measure of love and excitement few in his condition experienced.

If only more of the adults had as much compassion as the children. Many of the adults treated his condition as a contagious disease. They wanted nothing to do with him. To make matters worse, many of the adults assumed if he could not speak, he also suffered from a loss of hearing. For this reason many of them had no reservations about making comments right in front of him. Many of those comments cut right to the heart. At times he wished he had the ability to tell these people how they made him feel.

Many of the adults claimed he was possessed by a demon, and speculated on the cause. Some did not think twice about accusing the boy of sins he never committed. Others blamed his mother. The accusations that hurt the most were pointed at the father he never met. Some times it took the boy days, or weeks to get over some of the words that cut so deep.

His little friend, Hannah could tell when Eli was hurting. Today she sensed his pain more than ever. She wished there was a way she could find out what was really bothering him. She decided to take him for a long walk, to get away from the city. As they walked out of the city into the country, she held his hands, describing the rolling hills, green grass, each small home built along side the road, the animals in the pens, and the sheep grazing in the pastures. Crossing over a hill they saw a large crowd in the valley below.

Guiding Eli by the hand, Hannah made her way to the center where she looked upon a man with both hands placed upon a small girl kneeling in front of Him. After a few seconds, the girl stood up, pulled her dress up to look at her knees, turned and ran to a young couple kneeling a few feet away. Hannah began to think to herself, could this be Jesus? She heard so much about Him. Could the stories be true? Much of what she heard was from the priests and their supporters, the Pharisees. They talked about Jesus’ healing, and seemed to have an excuse describing how each was staged in an attempt to make Jesus appear as one of the prophets. Hannah described the scene to Eli as the next person approached Jesus.

“Eli, I think this is Jesus. There is an old man coming up to Him. He has his arm supported in a sling hanging around his neck. Jesus is feeling the old man’s arm now. He is taking it out of the sling now. The man is feeling his arm now. You should see the look on the man’s face. Can you hear him praising God now?”

Hannah remained silent for a moment as she contemplated what she had just seen. Another person approached Jesus. Hannah continued providing Eli with a description of the actions in front of them. “Eli, this time a young boy about your age is going to the Healer. I can see he is walking with a crutch, his left foot is crooked, and I can see his leg is so skinny, barely skin and bones. The Healer is kneeling in front of the boy. He has one hand on each of the boy’s shoulders. The Healer is praying over the boy. He is putting His hands on the boys foot now. His foot is straightening out now. Eli, I can see the boys leg getting stronger, I can see it grow! Eli, the boy is healed! Eli, the boy dropped his crutch and is hugging the Healer. The boy is running to his parents now. Eli, I think this is for real. I, I, Eli, ….. We have to, I have to take you to Him. Come on, let’s go.”

For a moment Hannah forgot Eli’s disability as she ran to Jesus, Eli in tow. Half way to their destination, Eli fell. Hannah lost her grip. It took her a few steps to stop. She turned around, raced back to Eli, and began helping him to his feet. Hannah was so excited, she dropped Eli back to the ground a time or two while trying to help him up. When she finally got him to his feet, she turned around, took one step and ran into someone standing right behind her. This time Hannah found herself on the ground looking up at Jesus. He held out His hand to help Hannah to her feet. It took her a second or two to catch her breath as she shouted out, “are you Jesus? Can you help my friend? I saw what you did, I know you can do it.”

Another voice caught Jesus’ attention. One of the Pharisees shouted out, “this is the demon possessed boy from the city, we all know his mother the sinner, and no one knows his father. For all we know is, it may be Satan himself.” Many in the crowd let out a chuckle at the Pharisees’ comment. Many of the people there knew the boy and the stories that followed him. Jesus turned back to the boy, placed His hands on his shoulders, and asked, “do you want to be whole?” Eli was not sure how to answer, but the touch on his shoulders was like no other he had ever felt before. Everyone looked on as Eli turned his head from one side to the other as if looking for an answer. He bowed his head and answered, “I believe you can make me whole.”

Hannah stared at Eli’s eyes, looking for some kind of sign. Jesus placed His right hand over Eli’s eyes for a few seconds. When He removed His hand, Eli quickly covered them with his own hands. It appeared he was in some sort of pain. Hannah rushed forward, instinctively hugging him, trying to relieve the pain she saw in his face. She looked at his face wondering what to do. She saw a smile come to Eli’s face. He slowly removed his hands from his eyes which were now clear. Eli said, “I can see now. I can see now!” Hannah turned and fell at Jesus’ feet,. Thanking Him over and over again.

A man appeared out of the crowd. He walked up to Eli, and just stood in front of him for a moment. Eli continued shouting, I can see, I can see. Finally the man spoke up, “and you can speak also.” Eli stopped, looking up at the man and said, “your voice is familiar, do I know you?” The man began to cry as he knelt down, taking Eli in his arms, he said, “I am your father. Forgive me, I did not think of you, I was only thinking if myself, but today, today, I heard Jesus speak. Son, can you forgive me? I am so sorry. All I want is a chance to make it up to you, and your mother. All I want is my family back. I am so sorry, I love you so much.”

At that moment the Pharisee interrupted again. “This one does not cast out demons except by Beelzebub the ruler of the demons.” Eli’s father stood up. Facing the Pharisees he was prepared not only to defend his son, but the Healer. Just as he was about to speak, he felt a hand on his shoulder. He turned and faced Jesus. As he looked into Jesus’ eyes he felt like every thought in his head was open to Him. Jesus said, “remember what I told you son, mercy is more important than sacrifice.”

Jesus walked to the group of Pharisees and offered His explanation. “Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation. And every city or house divided against itself shall not stand. And if Satan casts out Satan, he is divided against himself; how then shall his kingdom stand? But if I cast out demons by Beelzebub, by whom do your sons cast them out? Therefore they shall be your judges. But if I cast out demons by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God has come to you.“

Matthew 12:9-14: Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbaths

Matthew 12:9-14 MKJV And when He had departed from there, He went into their synagogue. (10) And behold, a man having a withered hand. And they asked Him, saying, Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbaths? This so that they might accuse Him. (11) And He said to them, What man among you will be, who will have one sheep, and if it falls into a pit on the Sabbaths, will he not lay hold on it and lift it out? (12) How much better is a man then than a sheep? Therefore it is lawful to do well on the Sabbath days. (13) Then He said to the man, Stretch out your hand. And he stretched it out, and it was restored whole like the other. (14) Then the Pharisees went out and held council against Him, as to how they might destroy Him.

 

Once again Jesus found Himself preaching in another synagogue. To his disciples they are all were beginning to look alike, the priest and Pharisees seated in the front, each trying to out do the others with their elaborate dress, long colorful hems, and ornate head wear, and the common folk crowed in the rear. The disciples often wondered why they allowed Jesus to teach in the synagogues. Those in charge never seemed to agree with, or accepted what He preached. The priests could have easily banished Him from speaking in any synagogue and saved themselves what they considered a lot of headaches. In its own way, this seemed like one of the greatest miracles they witnessed, up until this day.

Every time Jesus spoke the synagogues were filled past capacity. Children occupied the windows just to catch a glimpse of Jesus. Hundreds gathered outside the open doors listening carefully to every word they could catch.

The disciples always occupied the back row, looking over the people, wondering what Jesus saw in each face. When Jesus looked over this group, He studied a number of faces. Sometimes He could see the years of pain locked away in their eyes. Today was not different, many people carried a look of anguish. A woman hiding the sin of adultery from her husband, another with years of gossip building up guilt, waiting for the truth to spring forth, business men and tax collectors who had taken advantage of people all week, hoping a burnt offering and a day in the synagogue would buy them forgiveness, and relief from the pain inside.

Today Jesus noticed a man in front of His disciples with his head bowed low. His long stringy hair covered his eyes. He was dressed in little more than bits and pieces of rags, grayed by years of sleeping in the streets. His odor was distinct even in this large group. This was the one. Jesus could feel his pain. It was different from the others. His pain came from years of loneliness and neglect. This man felt comfort being pressed by the crowd. This was the first human contact he had felt in years. He had spent his entire life alone in a world full of people.

Jesus moved forward, an unusual scene in the synagogue. The priest and Pharisees watched Him closely, wondering what Jesus was up to. People in the aisle moved aside ahead of him creating an opening between Jesus and the old man. Jesus stopped in the middle and called out to the man, “come.” For the first time the old man looked up, surprised to see Jesus standing in front of him with nothing but an open path. One of the priests recognized the old man. Summing up the situation he asked, “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbaths?” Jesus turned back to the contingency of priests filling the aisle behind Him and answered, “What man among you will be, who will have one sheep, and if it falls into a pit on the Sabbaths, will he not lay hold on it and lift it out? How much better is a man then than a sheep? Therefore it is lawful to do well on the Sabbath days.” The room filled with a series of gasps, mumbles, and comments. Jesus held up His hand to silence the room and said to the old man, “Stretch out your hand.” The old man pulled the rags back from his hand. People nearby pushed and shoved in an attempt to observe the event unfolding before them. Those nearby let out a gasp as the man displayed a badly withered hand, dwarfed by comparison to his good hand.

The old man stared at his hand for a minute. The expression on his face turned from pity to a look of determination. He looked up at Jesus. While staring into the loving eyes of Jesus, the old man’s hand began to pump in new blood. At first there was an evident change in color, followed by a physical change in the shape and consistency. The old man looked back down at his hand, restored like his other. He raised it up to his eyes, flexed it open and closed a few times, and lifted it in the air for everyone to see. Shuts of praise filled the synagogue, many broke out in a song of praise.

The priest and Pharisees immediately departed to the private room off the front of the sanctuary. Once the door was shut behind them, they began plotting their revenge.