Observations for me from today’s reading:
- 10:8-9. The disciples were instructed to proclaim that the kingdom of God has come near. Where they found faith, they authenticated the message with signs of healing. (It is God who heals and it is faith in God that allows us to see it.) Where they did not find faith, they were to authenticate the message with a sign of judgment, the dust and the sandal). Some think that the only sign of the Kingdom is that of healing, but it is not so. It is also not our primary concern. We are to preach and to act obediently. God saves and God judges.
- 10:20. Those who went out also came back rejoicing that they power of God had been manifested through them. Jesus told them that the greater miracle was that God manifested His power toward them in their own salvation. ARE WE MORE in awe at our salvation, or at the miraculous events of healing?
- 11:37. Jesus was invited to eat a meal by a Pharisee…and HE WENT! Would you?
- 11:42. Some tell me that the “tithe” is never taught in the New Testament. This is one of the clearest verses affirming the validity and ongoing nature of that which was extensively taught to the people before. These things (giving of the tithe with meticulous care) are to be done without leaving the others (justice and generosity) undone.
- 12:13-15. Just for me. I was in an extended conversation this week with someone who believes that it is ok…and even preferrable for the government to tax the rich to do justice toward the poor. I think this word speaks to the fact that Jesus is not concerned with the civil tax codes or the idea of fairness in the world. He IS concerned with the sense that His people represent His kingdom and as such are to proclaim Him as King and point others to trusting in Him as King!
- 12:22-34. We can be covetous whether we have an abundance of things and want more…or lack abundance and are anxious to get some…rather than trusting in the God who provides always for His children (12:32).
- 12:47-48. There is a scale of judgment in play where not everyone is treated the same at judgment. Those who have been given more and failed to steward it, will receive a stricter judgment than those who have been given less and failed to steward.
- 12:49-53. More to come on Sunday as I preach on the subject of unity. Christ came to divide and then unify under the banner of righteousness.
Proverbs 26:4 is the takeaway today. “Do not answer a fool according to his folly or you will also be like him.” [As a friend once said, "Don't mudwrestle a pig. You'll both just get dirty but the pig likes it."]
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