Yesterday we read through Matthew 27, this is the discussion. After listening to the chp 26 discussion, I realized how that could have been done better. So let’s discuss the trial of Jesus and his crucifixion and burial. And that could include your thoughts and comments; up to you.
Here is a link to He Cannot Save Himself, a poem for Good Friday.
Peter returns the 30 pieces of silver; Pilate is amazed that Jesus will not respond to his accusers; the people demand Barabbas be released and Jesus crucified; Jesus is crucified between two thieves and buried in the tomb of Joseph of Arimathaea. Once again we are reading the text today and saving the discussion for tomorrow.
Matthew 27
When morning came, all the chief priests and elders of the people took counsel against Jesus to put him to death:
Continue readingJesus tells his disciples what to look for at the end times. Do not be deceived by anyone claiming to be the Christ, nor by those who say “Look! He is here” or “over there.”
Matthew 24
Jesus went out from the temple: and his disciples came to show him the buildings of the temple.
Continue readingJesus begins by warning his listeners about the scribes and Pharisees then turns his attention to addressing them directly. He really gives them the business. Jesus didn’t go around all the time speaking softly like Mr. Rogers with a big dumb Joel Osteen smile on his face. This chapter ends with a lament for Jerusalem.
Matthew 23
Then Jesus spoke to the crowd, and to his disciples,
Continue readingParable of the wedding feast, the Pharisees conspire with the Herodians, a question about taxes, a ridiculous question about marriage in the resurrection, the greatest commandment and finally Jesus asks a question that shuts the room down.
Matthew 22
Again Jesus spoke to them by parables, and said,
Continue readingThe Triumphal Entry is the first event in what we call Holy Week or the week of Jesus’ Passion. We start with Palm Sunday, then see the cleansing of the temple, the curse of the fig tree, questions about his authority, his question about John the Baptist, and the parable of the wicked tenants. It’s a long chapter but filled with good stuff. More good stuff tomorrow.
Matthew 21
When they drew near Jerusalem, and came to Bethphage, to the mount of Olives, Jesus sent two disciples,
Continue readingParable of laborers in the vineyard; Jesus predicts his death, burial and resurrection a third time; the mother of James and John makes a request; two blind men receive sight.
Matthew 20
“For the kingdom of heaven is like a man that is a landowner, who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard.
Continue readingThe Pharisees test Jesus by asking about divorce. His answer has broad ranging applications. Jesus allows little children to be brought to him then tests the faith of a rich young man who believes he keeps the entire Law. Look for a couple of very well known quotes from Jesus in this chapter.
Matthew 19
When Jesus had finished these sayings, he departed from Galilee and came into the coasts of Judea beyond Jordan;
Continue readingIn this chapter we read about the death of John the Baptist, the feeding of the 5,000 and Jesus walking on water, as well as Peter. The fame of Jesus makes it difficult for him to move from place to place and he will have to avoid going into cities and let the crowds come out to him in the wilderness and desolate places.
Matthew 14
At that time Herod the tetrarch heard about the fame of Jesus,
Continue readingJesus contends with the Pharisees over keeping the Sabbath and they accuse him of casting out demons by the power of demons. Some very well known statements of Jesus are in this chapter, concluding with “those who do the will of my Father in heaven is my brother, and sister, and mother.”
Matthew 12
At that time Jesus went through the grain fields on the Sabbath day. His disciples were hungry and began to pluck the heads of grain and to eat.
Continue reading
The Master's Table 