Matthew 22:29 But Jesus answered them, “You are wrong, because you know neither the scriptures nor the power of God.”

The sadducees did not believe in resurrection (v.23) Jesus makes clear the reality of the resurrection, and its root are the scriptures. They reveal the power of God.

I must know and believe the scriptures, for in them is the power of God revealed.

“My spirit pants for thee, O living word.”

Matthew 22: 20-21 “Whose likeness and inscription is this? They said “Caesars.”

Money is of the world, and for the world. Jesus gives that perpective. Use it to fulfill earthly obligations, but know God wants my heart and soul.

What is important to me? Don’t get too caught up with money. It’s fleeting and deceitful. God will provide for my earthly obligations, and even be a blessing to others!

Lord, today, and always, I give you my heart and soul. I want to live for eternity today! AMEN

Matthew 21:19 And seeing a fig tree by the wayside, he went to it and found nothing on it but only leaves. And he said to it, “May no fruit ever come from you again!” And the fig tree withered at once.

Jesus expected there to be fruit on this tree. The purpose of a fig tree is to grow figs. That is why it was created, and planted where it was.

Rev. 4:11b KJV “You have created all things, and for your pleasure they are created.”

Everything – created by him and for him. Therefore Jesus is totally reasonable in expecting fruit, growth in grace, faith and ministry from me!

Jesus, stir in me. Let you life flow through me, and make me fruitful for your pleasure! AMEN

Matthew 21:5 “Behold, your king is coming to you,
Zechariah 9:9 “humble, and mounted on a donkey”

Jesus made his grand entrance – the king presenting himself. Instead of a flashy stallion, a donkey. Instead of capturing wealth, discarding it (v.12) Instead of executions, healings (v.16)
Instead of flattery from the powerful, praise from children. (v.15,16)

You remind me again that your ways are not my ways. You turn everything upside down. You, who should be proud, are humble, rich-poor, vengeful-kind.

Jesus, put your stamp on my life. Make me like you! AMEN

Matthew 21:34 When the season for fruit drew near, he sent his servants to the tenants to get his fruit.
Matthew 21:43 Therefore I tell you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people producing its fruit.

As the builder and owner of this earth, God the Father is the land Lord and we are his tenants. He rightfully expects a return: fruit(s)

I ask myself, “What are these fruits the Lord wants from me?” and these are the answers:
Fruit of repentance
Fruite of believing
Fruit of the Spirit
Fruit of good works
Fruit of salvation for others

O Lord, yours is the kingdom, produce fruit in me that I can give back to you. AMEN

Matthew 21:23 And when he entered the temple the chief priests and the elders of the people came up to him… and said, “By what authority are you doing these things, and who gave you this authority?”

Jesus had taken charge. The king had come into his temple, the very place which was built to be rightfully his alone. These leaders thought they alone held authority. How dare Jesus come in and do all these wonderful things (v.15)

When I’m in charge, it’s business as usual. When Jesus takes over, and takes his rightful place in his temple, wonderful things happen.

Take charge of me, Lord Jesus. Take your rightful place. I want you to be the authority over me, that you may be at work in me. AMEN

Matthew 20:32 “What do you want me do to for you?”

The two blind men pleaded for his attention and help. Then Jesus asked them this simple question. “What do you want me to do for you?” “Lord, let our eyes be opened” they said.
Jesus in pity touched their eyes, and immediately they could see.

The blind men were: Needy and desperate, aware of Jesus passing by, persistent in calling out to Jesus, and knew who he was. When I come to Jesus , like they did, he asks me the same question!

Lord Jesus, you are always near, but I am not aware of how needy and desperate I really am. I want that awareness, that you may do mighty works for your glory. Amen

Matthew 20:26 It shall not be so among you but whsoever would be great among you must be your servant.

It is no mystery what kind of attitude and action Jesus values. To be an achiever in his kingdom requires faithful, humble work. To hear his “well done, good and faithful servant” means to serve faithfully and do a good job, do it well.

Sharpen my mind and heart for your service, Lord. My tendancy is to become careless and lazy, and to rely too much on spontinaeity instead of diligent preparation. Thank you for these words of instruction. Amen

Matthew 20:15 Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or do you begrudge my generosity?

The ones who had only worked an hour got the same pay as those who worked all day long. The master’s generosity caused the longer workers to complain.
God is so generous and gracious. My earthly thinking makes me selfish and stingy. How kind of him to offer so much to anyone who will come to him, even in the last hour; the”last minute” like the dying thief next to him.
Lord Jesus, give me your heart of kindness, grace and generosity, offering a place to all who will believe in you, then rejoicing with them. Thank you Lord for your kindness and generosity to me. Amen

Experiencing the voice of God through the Bible has been my great delight over the last few years. I’ve had a number of friends encourage me to post some of my thoughts to encourage others in their quest to connect with God in a life-giving, personal way. I hope you find some of these posts helpful! Jack