In reading through Matthew, you find a great deal of miracles occurring...last week alone we had a long list found in the three passages we read. It is a common theme throughout the book of Matthew. However, in reading this week's passages, while we still see miracles being performed, we see an even greater concern...repentance and life change!
Throughout Jesus' ministry, He was constantly being judged and condemed by the Pharisees and religious leaders. In Matthew 11, we see Jesus teaching of whom John the Baptist is. He attempts to explain the fulfillment of prophecy to the people, yet He recognizes that they are more wrapped up in judgment than to accept hope. As He talks of the cities where He had performed most of the miracles, He points out that they may have received healings but that they lacked life change which is ultimately the most important thing. Matthew 11 ends with the statement from Jesus that we must bring Him our burdens and He will give us light! Physically we may have hardships but Jesus is offering so much more!
In Matthew 12 this theme of repentance continues as Jesus faces off with the Pharisees over working on the Sabbath. Jesus makes it very clear that knowing the Scriptures won't save you. True love and acceptance of the Father is where hope is found. If we are followers of Christ, our life must reflect that...which Jesus explains when He tells of the tree being identified by its fruit.
As our readings in Matthew continues into chapter 13, we see a shift into stories and parables. These illustrations were used greatly by Jesus to explain the ideas of repentance, love, and eternal life with the Father. These stories did not always make Jesus popular but He was true to His message and kept teaching truth. I wonder how many believers today can claim this in their own lives?!?!
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