The Big But ~ The big but of this chapter demonstrates a man’s confidence that Jesus’ compassion and love could overcome his own unworthiness. Lord, I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. But just say the word and my servant will be healed. A Roman centurion was an officer assigned to Continue reading

In the Presence of Jesus ~From this point forward in the gospel, we will sense the itinerant manner of Jesus’ ministry. It was occasional—not in that he only ministered on occasion, but that he ministered as opportunities occasioned themselves. When he came down the mountainside; as he entered Capernaum; when he arrived at Peter’s house; Continue reading

Before we move on, it may serve us to consider a little more ancient/future back and forth. It was often stated and repeated in God’s story that He preferred obedience to sacrifice. It was a man named Samuel who asked, “Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying His Continue reading

Think Again ~ Wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow is the road that leads to life. Apparently it’s easy to find yourself on the wrong road. It’s apparent also that you’d have a lot of company there. Continue reading

But Hypocrites? ~ Jesus busted out the label ‘hypocrite’ in chapter 6. People who turned pious acts of devotion into a means to be recognized and applauded by their fellow man were nothing more than actors playing a religious role. Hypocrisy can come in another form, too—judging others in their shortcomings while neglecting to confess Continue reading