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Matthew 26:57 – Then those who had seized Jesus let him to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders had gathered.

We have discussed the fact that the high priesthood still held on to some of their former judicial authority.  They could force any Jew to be brought before them for trial but they no longer had the authority to carry out capital punishment.  They were forced to pass judgment, and request that the ruling authorities administer the sentence.

We have also discussed the fact that at this time the office of the high priest was no longer passed from father to son.  It was now a position that was appointed by the Roman rulers.  Once a man held the office, he retained the title until he died.

Matthew tells us that Jesus was taken before Caiaphas, the current high priest.  However, John's gospel reveals that before seeing Caiaphas, Jesus was taken before Annas, the former high priest (John 18:13).  So Jesus stood before both of the living high priests of his day.

Why did the gospel writers bother to include this bit of information in their narratives?

Leviticus 17:5 - To the end that the children of Israel may bring their sacrifices, which they offer in the open field, even that they may bring them unto the LORD, unto the door of the tabernacle of meeting, unto the priest, and offer them for peace offerings unto the LORD.

 According to the Old Testament Law, all sacrifices had to be presented to the priest before being killed.  This is exactly what was done to Jesus just before he was sacrificed for our sin.  He was presented to both men who had claim to the title of high priest.  Can there be any doubt that this was divinely mandated?  Can there be any doubt that Jesus is perfectly fulfilling his role as the Lamb of God?

Psalm 22:16 - For dogs have compassed me: the assembly of the wicked have enclosed me: they pierced my hands and my feet.

Jesus' appearance before the council is a fulfillment of Psalms 22:16.  As we already noted in our study, 'dogs' was a term frequently used by the Jews to refer to Gentiles.  As Jesus was arrested by the Romans, he was surrounded by Gentiles. 

Further, the assembly of the Jewish leadership can certainly be described as an assembly of the wicked.  They had already met at this very same location for the purpose of plotting the death of Jesus (Matthew 26:3).  Now they eagerly meet again in the dead of night in order to carry out their evil plans.  Truth and justice are nowhere to be found; these leaders had already determined to kill and destroy the one who threatened their positions in Jewish society and religion.

Matthew 26:58 – And Peter was following him at a distance, as far as the courtyard of the high priest, and going inside he sat with the guards to see the end.

In this verse we see Peter's desire to be near Jesus and to be a witness of what would happen to him.  He still had a degree of love and concern for Jesus but it was a mere spark, not a blazing light in the darkness.   

The scripture tells us that Peter followed Jesus at a distance.  Why?  What caused that?  Actually, it was a combination of factors.

First, he allowed himself to have a high degree of self confidence and even pride. He was in the 'inner circle' of the apostles.  He was frequently the leader of the group.  Peter probably thought that when Jesus came into his kingdom, he would receive a place of honor, perhaps even the highest office in the kingdom.

This self confidence and pride led him to trust in his flesh.  For example, Peter made an extremely bold commitment to be faithful to Jesus.  But since he was trusting in his flesh, he was unable to keep the promises that he made.

To make matters worse, Peter was guilty of spiritual indolence or laziness.  Jesus told him to 'watch and pray', or to stay in constant communication and fellowship with God.  But Peter spent his time sleeping.  Thus, he was unprepared when the time of testing came.

Because he was spiritually unprepared, Peter's resolve/commitment to stay faithful to Jesus began to crumble with the threat of persecution. This resulted in fear.  Peter feared shame, contempt, persecution and bodily harm. 

Because of his fear, Peter no longer wanted to publicly identify with Christ.  That is why we find Peter 'following at a distance'.  It is also why we find him sitting in the courtyard with the servants and soldiers, instead of going into the court and standing with his Master during the trial.  In fact, fear will shortly cause Peter to deny even knowing Jesus.

He did not yet understand that spiritual warfare can only be fought in the spiritual realm, not in the fleshly realm.  He did not yet have access to baptism in the Holy Spirit which is the true source of spiritual power.

So, the decision to 'follow at a distance' is actually a combination of choices that Peter made.     

What about you?  Are you following Jesus at a distance?

Do you have a high degree of religious self confidence or pride?  When someone asks you if you are 'religious', how do you respond?  Do you offer church attendance and good works as evidence of salvation?  Do you feel that Christianity mainly entails following a list of rules and regulations about what you can and cannot do?

If so, you will tend to trust in your fleshly ability to keep those rules when the day of trouble comes.  But your fleshly resolve and commitment will crumble when faced with persecution.  Because you are spiritually unprepared, your resolve will be replaced by fear.

Then, like Peter, you will find yourself no longer wanting to publicly identify with Christ.  You will follow at a distance, hanging out with worldly people, instead of facing trials with Jesus.  You may even find yourself denying his name!  

It is spiritually dangerous to follow Jesus at a distance.  True safety lies in being as close to Christ as possible.  Don't be a lazy Christian!  Maintain an intimate relationship with him every day through prayer, praise and studying the word.  Put on the sword of the Spirit.  Practice using your shield of faith.  Never go into battle alone – always trust in the Holy Spirit to go with you and direct the battle.  He will give you the victory and the courage to stand in every situation.  

Then your love and commitment to Jesus will cease to be just a spark and turn into a torch that blazes in a world of spiritual darkness, pointing others to Christ.   

Matthew 26:59-60 – Now the chief priests and the whole council were seeking false testimony against Jesus that they might put him to death, but they found none, though many false witnesses came forward.  At last two came forward.

The court calls forth witnesses as if they were honestly seeking the truth, but it is merely a charade.  They have already condemned Jesus and they will do anything within their power to convict him.  If the testimony/evidence has to be fabricated, then so be it. 

The main charges they wished to pin on Jesus were false doctrine and blasphemy. 

They wanted to prove his doctrine as false because it was directly opposed to their own.  If people believed the teachings of Jesus, they would soon abandon the authority of the Scribes and Pharisees.  Thus, these wicked men would lose the power and earthly glory which they had tirelessly labored to obtain. 

They also wanted to prove evidence of blasphemy, because this charge carried the death penalty with it.  (Also, if blasphemy could be proved, they would automatically use that as grounds to discard his doctrine).  If they could make a case for blasphemy, then they could petition the Romans to kill Christ.  And in their tiny minds, if Christ were to be crucified then eventually everyone would forget about him, and life would return to 'normal'.

Many liars were willing to come forth in an effort to give false evidence.  The bible does not say whether the Jewish rulers offered them money or privileges to do so, but I suspect that this was the case.  If there was no benefit for them, why would they lie?

At any rate, their stories did not hold up.  They could not piece together any kind of a case that was believable or consistent.  The stories of the witnesses did not fit together or agree.  This was a problem because the Law required two witnesses to establish a case (Deuteronomy 19:15).

Of course, we know that there was no proof of guilt because Jesus was innocent!   

Matthew 26:61 - ...and said, "This man said, 'I am able to destroy the temple of God, and to rebuild it in three days.'"

Finally, two false witnesses come forward using the tactic that Satan has used since the original temptation of mankind – the half truth.  How often does the enemy twist and pervert the words of God for his own foul purposes!  Woe to us if we don't know the difference! 

Back in the Garden of Eden, the serpent twisted the words of God to entice Eve into sin, and he was successful.  He now uses the same tactic here.  Mark records it this way:

Mark 14:56-58 – For many bore false witness against him, but their testimony did not agree.  And some stood up and bore false witness against him saying, "We heard him say, 'I will destroy this temple that is made with hands, and in three days I will build another, not made with hands.'"

The witnesses twisted or misrepresented the words that Jesus had spoken.  When phrased this way, you can see how the Jews could charge Jesus with using Satanic powers to create a physical temple in just three days – a project that had taken man 46 years to restore/rebuild.  But this is what Jesus actually said that day:

John 2:19-21 – Jesus answered them, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up."  The Jews then said, "It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and will you raise it up in three days?"  But he was speaking about the temple of his body.

Of course, Jesus was speaking about his body.  After his resurrection, God would no longer live in a temple made with hands, but in the heart of mankind.

2 Corinthians 6:16 -  For you are the temple of the living God; as God has said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.

When was the last time you took a minute to really consider this verse?  God Almighty, the creator of the universe and ruler of all things, wants to live with you, in your very heart!  He wants to be your constant companion and guide.  He desires your fellowship.  Hallelujah!

Matthew 26:62-63 – And the high priest stood up and said, "Have you no answer to make?  What is it that these men testify against you?"  But Jesus remained silent.  And the high priest said to him, "I adjure you by the living God, tell us if you are the Christ, the Son of God."

It seems as if the high priest was expecting Jesus to offer some long, elaborate, drawn out defense.  But Jesus disappoints that expectation with his silence.  Indeed, this was the most effective and appropriate reply that he could have offered. The accusations against him were false and frivolous.  His works and his teachings, which were all done publicly, were a sufficient defense.  No verbal reply could have been so effective.

Besides that, nothing Jesus said would have changed the intentions of the religious leaders.  They had already made up their minds to condemn him; a war of words would serve no purpose.    

His silence, however, did have a purpose.  It was a fulfillment of prophesy:

Isaiah 53:7 – He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth; like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent, so he opened not is mouth.

Caiaphas is puzzled and angry at the silence of Jesus.  In his fury, he adjures or puts Jesus under an oath, to give a response to his question: 

Are you or are you not the Messiah, the Son of God?

The answer to this question will put an end to the trial and give Caiaphas grounds for decisive action.  Caiaphas had no doubt heard Jesus refer to God as his Father.  So based on his answer to this question, Caiaphas will either declare him an imposter or a blasphemer.

Even though he was wicked and did not understand what he was doing, Caiaphas clearly and concisely asks the most important question ever placed before mankind throughout history.

Is Jesus Christ the Messiah, the Son of God, or not? 

This is a question that each and every human being must ask themselves.  The answer to this question will give us grounds for decisive action. 

If Jesus IS NOT the Messiah and Son of God, then he can (and should) be ignored, ridiculed, hated and despised.  His word should be cast aside and banned for it provides a false hope to those in desperate need.

However, if Jesus IS the Messiah/Christ, then he is able to save.  He is the way, the truth and the life.  He is our high priest, forever.  He is the mediator of the New Covenant.  He has a right to call us to himself and expect us to loyally follow and honor him.

If Jesus IS the Son of God, then he is divine and possesses divine power, wisdom and authority.  Therefore, he can be completely and utterly trusted in all circumstances.  He cannot fail.  He is always faithful.  He is always victorious.  He is worthy to be loved with all of our heart, soul, mind and strength.

How will you answer this very important question?  Is Jesus Christ the Messiah and Son of God?  How does your answer influence the way you live your life?

Matthew 26:64 – Jesus said to him, "You have said so.  But I tell you, from now on you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power and coming on the clouds of heaven."

Jesus did not bother to respond to the ridiculous accusations brought against him earlier.  However, when asked point blank to acknowledge that he is the Messiah, the Son of God, he speaks boldly and clearly – Yes, I am! 

Not only does he acknowledge that he is the Messiah, he draws a contrast between his first and second comings.  When Jesus uttered these words, he was standing before the high priest, in bonds.  He was soaked with sweat and tears from the events in the garden of Gethsemane.  His feet were dusty and dirty from walking.  He carried the weight of our sin with him.  Humbly he appeared in court as a criminal, already judged to be guilty.  The religious leaders scorned and despised him based on his appearance and on their own misguided rage.  They refused to acknowledge him as the Author of Salvation.

But hereafter, they would have the all the proof of his divinity that they needed.  Almost immediately they would know that he had risen from the dead.  They would hear and know that he had ascended into heaven in the clouds.  He would baptize his followers in the Holy Spirit and birth his church.  They would witness the spread of the gospel to all nations.  But that was not all!

They will also see him return to earth in the clouds, adorned with his royal power.  They will witness his magnificent splendor.  They will behold him sitting at the right hand of Almighty God (Power). 

They will discover that Jesus is more than just the Son of God, he is also the Son of Man – the righteous judge will execute judgment on the wicked (Daniel 7:13-14) and establish his everlasting kingdom.

The religious leaders missed their chance to accept Jesus as Messiah and Lord, but if you are reading this right now, it is not too late for you!  Make things right between you and Jesus immediately.  Make sure that when Jesus returns clothed in his divine majesty and authority, you are one of his loyal subjects.  Do not wait!

Matthew 26:65 – Then the high priest tore his robes and said, "He has uttered blasphemy.  What further witnesses do we need?  You have now heard his blasphemy."

The statement of Jesus was exactly what Caiaphas was looking for.   He now has reason to act.  According to the high priest, Jesus had incriminated himself by claiming under oath to be the true Messiah, the Son of God. 

Of course, it would not be a problem for the REAL Messiah to make such a claim, but the religious leaders would never, ever admit that Jesus was the Christ.    

So, based on Jesus' claim, Caiaphas declares Jesus to be guilty of the sin of blasphemy, and he tears his clothing as a sign against it. 

Because the alleged statement of blasphemy was made in front of the whole gathering, no further witnesses were needed to pronounce sentence, as long as everyone agreed on the charge.

Sadly, we see how justice and fairness were perverted by the highest court in the Jewish culture.  As high priest, Caiaphas should have consulted the Old Testament scriptures to see what they had to say about the Messiah.  Then, he should have compared the words and actions of Jesus to the law/prophesies.  Once this was done, each member of the council should have had a chance to express an opinion, beginning with the most junior member and ending with Caiaphas, who would render the final decision.

Instead, in the midst of bitter hatred and jealousy, Caiaphas takes on the role of accuser, judge and now jury.  He denounces Jesus a blasphemer in front of all the other members of the council, then pretends to ask their opinion, as if he had not yet made up his mind.  

In reality, he knew full well that his power and authority would sway the other members to side with him.  So he pronounces his judgment first, presuming that the outer council members will agree with him – and they did.

By the way, what was the significance of Caiaphas tearing his clothes?

It was customary among the Jews to tear their clothing as a sign of violent grief (Genesis 37:34).  It was also a sign used to express horror at anything deemed blasphemous or impious (2 Kings 18:37).

As high priest, Caiaphas had two different sets of clothing.  He had very unique and beautiful ceremonial clothing that was to be worn in the temple as he fulfilled his role as the high priest.  These clothes could never be intentionally torn (Leviticus 21:10).

He also had ordinary garments which were worn when he was not serving in the temple; this would have been the garment torn during this mock trial.

Matthew 26:66 – "What is your judgment?  They answered, "He deserves death."

The other members concur with the judgment – Jesus is guilty; according to the Law he deserves to die. 

Certainly, not all of the official ruling body agreed with this decision.  Joseph of Arimathea certainly would not have, neither would Nicodemus.  However, it is unclear whether these men were present at this meeting, for it was held illegally.  Specifically, it was held at the house of the high priest (instead of the temple), during the night (it was illegal to meet at night), without the full council being present (we assume).

The charge of blasphemy and the sentence of death made Jesus an automatic outlaw among the people.  The council may have hoped that the people would engage in a mob mentality and stone Jesus (as they did to Stephen).  If not, they would take him before the Roman governor and request death.

Matthew 26:67-68 – Then they spit in his face and struck him.  And some slapped him, saying, "Prophesy to us, you Christ! Who is it that struck you?"

Because they did not have the power to put Jesus to death, and because they could not be sure that the Romans would agree to be their executioner, they would abuse Jesus as much as possible while they had him in their power. 

Between the time that this meeting ended and the one at daybreak began, Jesus was subject to cruel torture by the Jews, the Roman guards and the servants of the court.   

Condemned prisoners are normally taken under special protection of the law and treated with compassion; their impending death is sufficient punishment.  But in this case, the Jews not only acted as though Jesus deserved death, they also denied him the compassion shown to the worst criminals in society.

They made a demonic sport of torturing Jesus, just as the Philistines had done to Sampson.

Isaiah 50:6 - I gave my back to the smiters, and my cheeks to them that plucked out the beard: I hid not my face from shame and spitting.  

Spitting in someone's face is an expression of the greatest contempt and insult possible.  The face of our dear Savior was abused in the most filthy way by the cruelest and most vile of men. 

As if that were not despicable enough, according to the gospel of Mark (14:65), they blindfolded Jesus, and then began to slap and punch him in the mouth.  As they did so, they mocked him by asking him to divinely reveal who had hit him!  This depraved and degenerate mob freely abused Jesus; no one came to his aid.

Thus, our Lord and Savior was placed into the hands of his own wicked creatures, falsely accused by the witnesses, unjustly condemned by his judges and barbarously insulted by all!  Yet, he patiently submitted to this treatment without saying a single word.   

Matthew 26:69-70 – Now Peter was sitting outside in the courtyard.  And a servant girl came up to him and said, "You also were with Jesus the Galilean."  But he denied it before them all saying, "I do not know what you mean."

Remember Peter?  Remember how confidently he declared that he would never forsake Jesus, no matter what happened?  Here is the record of how that turned out. 

Here was a chance for Peter to prove that he could do as he claimed.  Here was a chance to stand up for his Master.  Here was a chance for him to point out the injustice of what was being done to Jesus.  But as we would expect, his flesh fails him.  He does not have the courage to stand up for the truth.

Notice that Peter is sitting in the courtyard, outside the hall.  He is not facing the high priest or the Sanhedrin.  He is not facing a band of armed soldiers.  He is not facing death or even arrest.  In fact, he is terrified into denying Jesus by the voice of an insignificant servant girl, who carries no power or authority.

This shows us how little confidence we should have in our flesh.  If our confidence and strength are not in God, if we do not have the indwelling Holy Spirit to provide strength and boldness to us, we too will fall in the slightest trial of our faith.

Matthew 26:71-72 – And when he went out to the entrance, another servant girl saw him and she said to the bystanders, "This man was with Jesus of Nazareth."  And again he denied it with an oath: "I do not know the man." 

Scholars point to this passage of scripture (Matthew 26:69-75) as an indirect proof that the Bible is true.  If the gospel were the invention of man, we would not see one of Jesus' disciples portrayed in such a weak and vile manner. 

This passage also shows that Peter reaped exactly what he had sown.

  • He sowed self confidence – He depended on himself rather than God.
  • He sowed indolence (he was apathetic/lazy) – Jesus told him to watch and pray, but he slept.
  • He planted seeds of compromise – He followed Jesus 'far off' rather than closely.
  • He planted himself in wicked company – Instead of being with Jesus, he was with the unbelieving crowd outside the court.

Based on what he planted, how can he be surprised when he reaps a fall from grace?

What are you planting in your spiritual life right now?  Self confidence, apathy, compromise?  Or are you planting prayer, the word and hearing the call of the Spirit of God?

Today is the day to prepare for the storms of tomorrow.  Sow into the kingdom.  Invest in your relationship to God.  Then, when the day of trouble comes, you will be able to stand.

Matthew 26:73-74 – After a little while the bystanders came up and said to Peter, "Certainly you too are one of them, for your accent betrays you."   Then he began to invoke a curse on himself and to swear, "I do not know the man."  And immediately the rooster crowed.    

Although Peter has denied it, those around him are convinced that he is one of the followers of Jesus.  He has been spotted by eye witnesses.  Peter has a Galilean accent, and it was well known that some of the apostles were Galilean.

But even in the face of this evidence, Peter does not want to confess it.  He further slides into sin by cursing himself and possibly even Jesus.

Here is a lesson for us:  A bold and open confession of Christ edifies all the godly, and puts unbelievers to shame.  On the other hand, if we deny Christ before the weak, they are shaken by our example and fall away.  Isn't it true that we bear at least part if not most of the responsibility for the damage done to the faith of others by our actions?

Secondly, the church and the world are sometimes shocked by the sudden fall or misconduct of a renowned Christian.  As we noted, their fall will certainly cause other Christians to fall.  Their fall will cause the wicked to rejoice. 

If we could go back and find the root cause of their fall, it would surely be a private departure from God.  Men drift away from God and fall in private long before they fall in public. 

Matthew 26:75 – And Peter remembered the saying of Jesus, "Before the rooster crows, you will deny me three times."  And he went out and wept bitterly.

I willingly admit that I love happy endings.  I hate reading a good book, only to find that the main character dies or winds up unsatisfied at the end of the story.

This narrative seems to have a very sad ending for Peter, but in reality, the opposite is true.  It is a happy ending because God does not abandon Peter to his sin.  Instead, God calls him back to himself.

God can and will use anything to get our attention.  In this case, the crowing of the rooster meant nothing to anyone else who heard it, but to Peter it was a call to repentance. The crowing of that rooster brought to mind something that Peter had forgotten or ignored – the words of Jesus.  Even though Peter had been overpowered by temptation and fallen into sin, God did not forsake him.  In fact, he wanted him back.

Peter saw only his failure at that moment, but God saw the miracle that Peter would become – a strong, vibrant, Spirit filled apostle of Christ, who would help to establish the church.

Let me offer you some encouragement and relief:

God saw Peter's failure at that moment in the courtyard of the high priest.  But he also saw what Peter would become in the future, after he had repented and allowed the Holy Spirit to empower him for service.  God saw that Peter would write books of the bible, help establish the church and its doctrine, and that he would be the first Jew to take the gospel to the Gentiles!

Maybe your recent walk with Christ has not been all that great.  Maybe you have not yet fulfilled the task that God as set before you.  The good news is that today is not the end!  You too can be transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit.  So talk to Jesus TODAY.  See what God will do through you tomorrow!

Let me offer you some strength:

Sometimes, evil looks overwhelming.  It looks like good never triumphs.  But that is just an illusion.  You may not see everything that God is doing behind the scenes of your life (and the world), but I assure you he is working!  He is making all things work together for your good.  So be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might (Ephesians 6:10)!  Arm yourself for spiritual battle and watch as the Lord fights darkness through you!   

 

Matthew 26:36 – Then Jesus went with them to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to his disciples, "Sit here, while I go over there and pray."

The account of Jesus in the Garden is also recorded in Mark 14:32-42, Luke 22:39-46 and John 18:1. 

The Garden of Gethsemane was on the western side of the Mount of Olives.  The word 'garden' does not refer to a place in someone's backyard where they grow tomatoes.  It would be more like a park with trees, water (the Kidron creek/brook) and possibly places to walk.  It was a place of refreshment, away from the noise and heat of the city.

Jesus in Gethsemane

The gospel of Luke indicates that Jesus frequently met with the apostles at this location (John 18:2).  

This is evidence that Jesus did not go there in order to hide from his enemies.  The opposite was true.  He purposely went to a place that Judas was familiar with, spent time in prayer and waited for his enemies to come and arrest him. No man took his life from him; he laid it down himself.

 

John 10:17-18 – For this reason the Father loves me; because I lay down my life that I may take it up again.  No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord.  I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again.  This charge I have received from my Father.

He instructed most of the apostles to wait near the entrance, while he went further on to spend time in prayer.

Here is a lesson for us.  As the hour of greatest darkness loomed, Jesus spent time in prayer.  Communion with God sustained him during this tribulation.  We too can approach the throne room of God to find comfort in days of trial.

Did you know that the word 'Gethsemane' means 'olive press'?  It was place where the olives were crushed and bruised in order for the oil to flow.  Many scholars see a parallel here – Jesus was crushed, bruised and pressed that atonement might flow from him.  They see this as Jesus treading the winepress of the wrath of God.

Here is another interesting thought:  Sin first entered our lives in a garden setting, and brought death with it.  Likewise, in a garden setting Jesus submits to death so that sin must now 'exit' our lives.   Kind of ironic, don't you think?

Matthew 26:37 – And taking with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, he began to be sorrowful and troubled.

While eight of the apostles are left near the entrance, Peter, James and John went further into the garden with Jesus.  These are the same men who were present on the mount of transfiguration (Matthew 17) and also the three who witnessed Jesus bringing Jarius' daughter back to life (Luke 8:51).  They had been witnesses of the glory and power of Jesus, now they would witness his humiliation which he suffered for our sake.

As Jesus was praying, he became sorrowful.  That word (sorrowful) is a very weak and inappropriate translation.  The original word means 'to be pressed down or overwhelmed with extreme or severe anguish and horror; excruciating anxiety and torture of spirit'.  The word 'sorrow' does not even begin to express the true meaning of what happened to Jesus.   

This term has nothing to do with physical pain.  It refers to great emotional and spiritual distress. 

What was the cause of this suffering?

In his Whole Bible Commentary, Matthew Henry asserts that in the garden Jesus began to take upon himself the iniquities of us all.  Most scholars are in agreement with him.  Jesus willingly accepted all the torment that the Father laid upon him, so that God's wrath might be satisfied and the debt for sin paid.  Let us always remember that sin is never written off like a bad debt – it is paid in full by the suffering of Jesus.

So it was our sin that resulted in the excruciating sorrow and distress of Jesus.

Matthew 26:38 – Then he said to them, "My soul is very sorrowful, even to death; remain here and watch with me."

The unspeakable severity of the burden of sin was so great, that it nearly caused physical death in Jesus.  This burden would stay upon him until his death on the cross.  According to scholars, this did not happen little by little.  Sorrow surrounded him or was poured upon him on every side, breaking upon him with sudden violent force.  There was no escape from it.

Thus, turning to his disciples, he explains that his torture is so intense, that it almost kills him; without support from God he would sink under this burden.  Therefore, he asks his disciples to watch with him, while he sought God.

The truth is that none of us can understand the agony of Jesus as he prayed in the garden that night.  None of us can fathom the crushing burden of sin that was placed on his sinless soul.  None of us know the extent to which Satan was allowed to tempt Jesus in this hour.  God alone knows and understands the extent of the suffering endured by Jesus for our sake.

  • What we can do, is reverently and humbly bow before Jesus and thank him for being our scapegoat, our sacrificial lamb, and our Savior.
  • What we can do is honor and love him by obeying his commands.
  • What we can do is to share the gospel message with those who are still lost and dying; the price for their salvation has already been paid.

Matthew 26:39 – And going a little farther he fell on his face and prayed, saying, "My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will."

Jesus wished for his chosen disciples to be near him in his woe, and yet, as it advanced, he felt the need to be alone with his Father, and so he left them to be alone.

In times of grief and sorrow, the body of Christ should comfort and sustain its fellow members.  It is our pleasure and our duty to do so.  We can comfort one another using calls, texts, hugs, food, cards, prayer, kind words, tears, and many other methods.

But sometimes our burdens are so intense or our trials so difficult, that we instinctively turn to God alone. There are times when human comfort cannot console us. It is good to know that during these times, we can find comfort and strength in the presence of our Almighty heavenly Father.

Here Jesus speaks of drinking the cup that his Father had prepared for him.  The cup represents the pain and suffering of sin (the burden he was now bearing) and his imminent death on the cross.

 He begs God that if possible, this cup would pass, or in other words Jesus is asking if he might avoid the sufferings now at hand, or if the sufferings might be shortened in some manner.  This shows us that Jesus was really and truly human, because people are always adverse to pain and suffering.  This is a natural law of self preservation that is inherent in us when we are born.     

But despite the bitter pain and agony of his suffering, Jesus freely chooses to submit his will to the Father.  If drinking the cup is the only way to glorify God, defeat Satan and provide salvation for mankind, then Jesus will drink it.

Galatians 1:4 - Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God our Father:    

Jesus immediately puts his own will in line with the will of his heavenly Father.  This had been his practice since he came to earth.

John 5:30 – I can do nothing on my own.  As I hear, I judge, and my judgment is just, because I seek not my own will but the will of him who sent me.

Hebrews 10:9 – Then said he [Jesus], Lo, I come to do you will, O God.   

By submitting himself and his will to the will of God, Jesus obtained the strength and power to endure Calvary. 

This is a lesson for every Christian.  We need to submit or line up our wills with the will of God.  He alone can see the future and only he knows what is best for us.  To go against his will can only result in heartache and lost blessings for us. 

Matthew 26:40-41 – And he came to the disciples and found them sleeping.  And he said to Peter, "So, could you not watch with me one hour?  Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation.  The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak."

While this rebuke was given in the hearing of Peter, James and John, we cannot help but notice that Jesus addresses the comment specifically to Peter.

If Peter could not stay away and watch with his Savior for even an hour, how would he be able to remain faithful in all the trials that were coming upon him?  The rash zeal and self confidence he displayed earlier were going to be put to the test very shortly - and they were going to fail him.

Jesus admonishes all of them to watch and pray.  This had nothing to do with security reasons.  Jesus was going to be arrested and put to death and he knew it.  Rather, he is calling the disciples to spiritual watching.  He is telling them to seek aid from God because they had need of power to overcome temptations.

Jesus tells them that their spirits/minds are ready and willing to bear the trials of life, but the flesh is not.  Our flesh is weak and fearful of danger, pain or discomfort.  It will lead you astray when trials come.  Therefore, we should pray that God will strengthen us to stand firm against temptation. 

Jesus is contrasting the fleshly self confidence of Peter with the true way to overcome temptation – to abide in God.  Thankfully, in the age of grace, we have access to the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.  He will aid us and strengthen us in resisting temptation.      

Matthew 26:42-44 – Again, for the second time, he went away and prayed, "My Father, if this cup cannot pass unless I drink it, your will be done."  And again he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were heavy.  So, leaving them again, he went away and prayed for the third time, saying the same words again.

Here again, we find the scriptures bearing witness to two great truths:  

First, Jesus endured horrible, unspeakable suffering in his flesh and soul, as a man.  Had he not done so, the claim could be made that he never truly suffered and consequently made no atonement for sin. 

Secondly, we find that Jesus freely surrenders his life to the will of God.  Had God constrained him to give it, it would have ceased to be a free will offering and would therefore have been of no use in purchasing the salvation of mankind.

What are we to make of the disciples sleepiness?  Some feel that their lethargy was simply because they had been up nearly 24 hours at that point.  Others feel that they had great sorrow over the sufferings of their Master, and this sorrow brought about great drowsiness.  Still others feel they were influenced by the powers of darkness.  While we don't know the exact cause, we do see that they were no real help or comfort to Jesus.  He was utterly alone in his trial.   

Matthew 26:45 - Then he came to the disciples and said to them, "Sleep and take your rest later on.  See, the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners."

Most interpreters suppose that this statement should have been translated as a question, rather than a command.  They suggest such things as this: 'Do you still sleep?  Will no warnings avail?  Will no danger excite you to watchfulness and prayer?'  This is consistent with the account in the gospel of Luke, where he records the words of Jesus as a question, not a statement (Luke 22:46).

The phrase 'hands of sinners' refers to Gentiles.  Specifically, it applies to the soldiers that Judas brought with him in order to apprehend Jesus.

Matthew 26:46 – "Rise, let us be going; see my betrayer is at hand."

There are two ways of answering a prayer for the removal of a burden.  In one, the burden is taken away and we remain unchanged.  In the other, we are strengthened so that the burden is bearable.

In this case, God did not take away the burden of sin from Jesus.  Instead, through his many prayers and supplications, Jesus received the strength from heaven that his flesh needed to finish the task he had willingly undertaken. 

This is proved by the words of Jesus in verse 46.  He is no longer prostrate on the ground.  He is done crying out to God.  He has full control of himself.  He calmly tells the disciples to wake up and get ready; he is going out to meet his betrayer and submit himself to death.

Now, let's give some consideration to our own spiritual lives.  Can you remember a time when you were carrying around a heavy burden?  Did you ask God to remove it?  I am sure you did, because this is the natural thing for a Christian to do.

Did God remove it?  If not, were you angry at God for not doing as you asked?  Did you feel like he was punishing you unjustly?  Did you whine and cry about the unfairness of it?  Did you demand to know what you did to deserve it?  Did you allow this to become a wall or a stumbling block in your relationship with God?

I have known people to react in just such a manner.  This type of response shows spiritual immaturity. 

The mature child of God knows and understands that every trial is an opportunity to sharpen our spiritual strength.  Trials give us opportunities to trust in God, which allows us to stretch and grow our faith. This prepares us for bigger challenges.

Prolonged trials teach us to dig into the word and stand on the promises of God.  They give us opportunities to practice fasting and waiting on the Lord.  They deepen the relationship between us and our Heavenly Father.   As we wait on God, we will receive strength and eventually, the burden becomes lighter and lighter, and we are able to manage it well, because we become stronger.

The eternal benefits of accepting and working through a burden are immense.  So, can we stop acting like spiritual 3-year-olds?  Can we believe that God is allowing a burden or a trial for our own good and the good of His kingdom?   Can we work with God, instead of against Him as he matures us?  The choice is yours.

Psalms 138:3 – In the day when I cried you answered me, and strengthened me with strength in my soul.

2 Corinthians 12:9 – And he said to me, My grace is sufficient for you: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.

It's okay to ask God to remove a burden or deliver you from a trial.  But remember, God sees your big picture.  He knows what tomorrow holds.  He knows your limits.  So if you don't find deliverance, then accept that God knows what he is doing, and that He is working all things out for your good.    

Matthew 26:47 – While he was still speaking, Judas came, one of the twelve, and with him a great crowd with swords and clubs, from the chief priests and the elders of the people.

John gives us a more specific description of this crowd:

John 18:3 - Judas then, having received a band of men and officers from the chief priests and Pharisees, came there with lanterns and torches and weapons.

So, obviously we have the traitor Judas, who is the leader.  He has 'a band' of men with him.  The literal translation is actually 'the band' and it refers to a specific cohort of soldiers. 

Because of the great multitude of people who flocked into Jerusalem for the Passover, Pilate automatically assigned a group of Roman soldiers to keep watch/stand guard by the temple.  They were under the authority of the high priest.  If any disorder or riot broke out, they were there to restore peace. This accounts for the men with swords.

There were also 'officers from the chief priests and Pharisees'.  These were Levites who were the normal temple guards and they were most likely armed with clubs.

This group came with torches and lanterns, probably because it was still before dawn and it would have been dark as they left the city. 

Now, put yourself in the shoes of the disciples for a moment.  There are 11 of you, plus Jesus.  You have no military experience.  You are unarmed, except for two small swords used for protection against robbers (Luke 22:38).  You are physically and mentally exhausted.  Jesus has just told you to get up, because he is now going to turn himself over to be crucified.  And the next thing you see is this imposing group of armed, trained soldiers.  What would be your first reaction?  

I think mine would be fear!

Matthew 26:48-49 – Now the betrayer had given them a sign, saying, "The one I will kiss is the man; seize him.  And he came up to Jesus at once and said, "Greetings, Rabbi!" And he kissed him.

It was dark and the Roman soldiers were not familiar with Jesus.  So Judas worked out a signal with them – he would identify Jesus with a kiss, and a greeting of Rabbi. 

It was customary among the Jews, that when friend meets friend, they salute one another with a kiss.  It would seem that when Judas kissed Jesus, he did that which all the apostles were accustomed to do, when they met their Master after an absence. 

Matthew 26:50 – Jesus said to him, "Friend, do what you came to do."  Then they came up and laid hands on Jesus and seized him.

It seems strange that Jesus would call his betrayer a friend.  If you go back to the original Greek, the word is more properly translated 'companion' or 'comrade', which makes more sense.  

Obviously, Jesus is not fooled by this pretence of affection by Judas.  He admonishes the traitor to get to the point; to do what he came to do.

Matthew 26:51 – And behold, one of those who were with Jesus stretched out his hand and drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest and cut off his ear.

Who was the swordsman who cut off this man's ear? What was the injured man's name? 


According to the gospel of John, Peter was the swordsman. The injured man's name was Malchus (John 18:10).

According to the gospel of Luke, Jesus took the time to stop and heal the man's ear (Luke 22:50-51).  In order to do so, he either had to pick up the ear and put it back on the guy's head, or he had to create a new ear.  Either way, it was a miracle that could only be produced by the unlimited power of God.

So the final earthly miracle that Jesus performs was unexpected and unsolicited by the recipient.  In fact, it was performed upon an enemy actually engaged in hostility against Jesus.  What a striking demonstration of mercy and forgiveness!  

Matthew 26:52 – Then Jesus said to him, "Put your sword back into its place.  For all who take the sword will perish by the sword."

Jesus rebukes Peter for his rash action.  Starting a fight with 11 men and 2 swords against a crowd of armed and trained soldiers is a really bad idea.  In fact, had it not been for the providence and care of Jesus, the entire group of apostles may well have been immediately cut in pieces.

If Jesus had instructed Peter to do so, that would have been a completely different scenario.  God can and will do the miraculous, but we need to follow his lead in that regard. In this case, Peter was acting against the will of God.

Matthew 26:53 – "Do you think that I cannot appeal to my Father, and he will at once send me more than twelve legions of angels?"

What good was Peter's sword anyway?  If Jesus chose to, he could have requested and received a limitless supply of help from heaven.  Jesus did not need Peter or his sword to rescue him.  In fact, Peter's actions showed distrust in the providence and power of God, and ignorance of the scriptures. 

The battle that was being fought that day was not a physical one.  It was a spiritual battle that manifested itself in the natural realm. So Peter's misguided efforts were of no avail.  

Matthew 26:54 – "But how then should the Scriptures be fulfilled, that it must be so?"

It is obvious to us that the scriptures foretold the death/sacrifice of Jesus for the sins of the world.  Having finished the work that the Father gave him to do, it was now time for Jesus to give up his life.  So any attempt on the part of the disciples to stop the process was futile.

However, the disciples did not have the benefit of hindsight like we do.  I am sure they were still adjusting to the situation.  The words of Jesus are just one more reminder that everything was progressing exactly as God had planned it from the very beginning of time. 

You know, God also knows about your life.  Psalms 139 tells us that God knew every one of the days of your life, before you were ever born.  It tells us that God knows when you sit down, when you get up and every word that is on your lips before it is spoken.

It also says that he has hedged you in, going before and after you to protect you.

Psalm 139:5 - You have hedged me behind and before, and laid your hand upon me.

So no matter what trials you are experiencing right now, God is right there.  No matter what uncertainties we face (changes in government leadership, the virus, raging fires, intense storms, unemployment, etc), God is right here.  None of this is a surprise to him.  Therefore, He can guide you through what seems to be difficult times.  Seek him in prayer as Jesus did.  He will give you strength and wisdom to bear your burdens and be victorious!

Matthew 26:55 – At that hour Jesus said to the crowds, "Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs to capture me?  Day after day I sat in the temple teaching, and you did not seize me."

At this time there were robbers who frequently hid in caves along the highways and preyed upon travelers.  They were notoriously violent and wicked.  The government sent armed soldiers out to hunt down and capture these criminals.

And now, they are treating Jesus in much the same manner even though he is neither wicked nor violent.  He sat peaceably in the temple on many occasions.  At other times, he was out in public ministering.  Jesus was never armed, nor did he hide from the Romans or the Jews.  They could have taken him at any time.  The large armed force sent to 'capture' him was an unnecessary insult.

Matthew 26:56 – "But all this has taken place that the Scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled."  Then all the disciples left him and fled.

Jesus makes sure to give witness that the events which were taking place at that moment were not controlled by mankind.  They were the result of the will and plans of God himself. They had been predicted hundreds of years before, and could easily be verified by looking at the Old Testament scriptures.

As we have already discussed, one of these scriptures foretold that when the shepherd was struck, the sheep would be scattered.  Thus, the disciples left Jesus and fled.

Let me offer you some encouragement:

We looked at the suffering of Jesus in the garden.  We saw that God did not remove his burden, but strengthened him that he could bear it. 

If you are facing a heavy burden today, let me encourage you to do the same thing that Jesus did – spend time in prayer.  Pour your heart out before God.  Ask him to strengthen you so that you too can bear whatever burden you have.  By seeking him, you will find strength, rest and a deepening of the relationship between you and the Lord. 

Burdens and trials are not pleasant, but they do much for our eternal growth and our relationship with God.

Let me offer you some relief:

What can we say about the actions of the disciples during this time?  They appear to be scared and weak.  But the good news is that they did not end up that way!  Once they were baptized in the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost, they became bold witnesses for Christ.  They were no longer afraid of what man could do to them.

Are you weak or fearful of what could happen to you for your faith?  Jesus is still baptizing people with the Holy Spirit.  The Holy Spirit is still providing the strength and boldness you need to live an amazing, powerful life for Christ.  Why not pray and ask Jesus about your relationship with the Holy Spirit?

Let me offer you some strength:

Despite what things look like around you, God is in control of the world.  He continues to hold it in place as it spins around the sun.  He is bigger and more powerful than the affairs of men.  Nothing happens without his consent.  Things that do happen, happen on God's time schedule. 

In the midst of all of that, God is still acutely aware of each individual person.  He is still seeking the lost.  He is still breathing new life into babies.  He is still calling saints home to be with him.  And He, the Almighty God and Everlasting Father, still desires to have a close, intimate relationship with YOU.  He desires to find you in his throne room, asking for his help.  He desires to impart his strength into your body, soul and spirit.  Won't you spend some time with him today? 

Introduction:  The scriptures record many, many instances when God gave Israel victory in battle over her enemies.  But this particular psalm is somewhat unusual – it does not celebrate an offensive victory in battle.  Instead, it gives glory and honor to God for his successful defense against an enemy.

What was the exact historical circumstance the author was celebrating with this song?  Many answers have been given, including the defeat of the Assyrians (led by Sennacherib) and the miraculous destruction of their army.  If you haven't read this account recently, you really should review it.  You can find it in II Kings 19 and Isaiah chapters 36 and 37.

In that particular incident, which happened during the reign of King Hezekiah, Israel did not fight at all.  She was under siege by the Assyrian army, and she simply waited for God to rescue her.  It is an amazing testimony to the power of God!

II Kings 19:34 – For I [God] will defend this city to save it, for my own sake and for the sake of my servant David.

Other people believe this Psalm speaks of a time that is future – the day when Christ returns to earth and rescues Israel from those who are yet to surround her, and then sets up his millennial kingdom.      

While these two examples could certainly be the basis for this Psalm, we really don't know what circumstance prompted the writer to pen this song of praise and glory to God.  But in some ways, I am glad we don't know.

The truth is that in every generation there are people of God who need to be rescued from their adversaries.  And in every generation, God answers that call.  Therefore, this is a timeless Psalm that applies to Christians of every age, including us.

Psalms 46:1 – To the choirmaster. Of the Sons of Korah. According to Alamoth.  A Song.  God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

Surely the children of Israel had good cause to declare that God was their refuge.  Time and time again they fled to the protection of the Father and he saved them.  Just consider a few examples:

  • Pharaoh and his army thought they had trapped the Israelites at the Red Sea, but God prepared a dry path through the water (Exodus 14:21-22).
  • The Midianites ravaged the land of Israel, stealing all her crops, but God used Gideon and 300 other men to destroy that innumerable army (Judges 6 and 7).
  • Haman planned to exterminate the Jews, but God rescued them through Queen Esther.

The examples go on and on - which ones come to your mind?

God is also a safe refuge for the church.  Many times in the New Testament, we find great persecution breaking out as Satan attempts to destroy the fledgling church (Acts 8:1).  But God not only protects and preserves the church, he causes it to flourish even in the midst of evil. 

As believers, each of us can trust in God as our refuge (Psalms 9:9).  I know you have done so many times in your life, because I have too.  What were some of the circumstances when God was a refuge for you? 

 The Israelites were also living proof of God's strength.  From the Egyptians to the Amorites to the Nazis, many groups have endeavored to completely destroy this nation.  Yet none have been successful, because God is their strength!  When they were weak, he was strong.  When they should have been wiped out, he intervened. 

The church of Jesus Christ can make the same claim.  From its inception during Roman rule, throughout the crusades and in the midst of modern-day persecution, Satan seeks to destroy her time and time again.  But the church is still here.  Even now, in the last dispensation of time, God is strengthening the church.  He is pouring out his Spirit upon us, to make us victorious over the enemy.

The psalmist adds that God is a very present help in times of trouble.

I am sure that King Hezekiah would agree, as he sat in Jerusalem while it was besieged by the Assyrians.  God assured him through the prophet Isaiah that victory would come, and it did.  God sent an angel of destruction who killed 185,000 Assyrians in one night, and the next morning what remained of the enemy withdrew from Jerusalem. 

I am sure that America would agree, as they fought for independence from Britain.  The settlers desired a country where they could freely worship God.  God granted that request and so much more!

I am sure that you would agree too.  When has God been a very present help to you?

Psalms 46:2-3 – Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling.  Selah.

Have you noticed that over and over in the scriptures, God gives us the mandate 'Fear Not'?  We should be using this as a motto!

  • God assures us that no weapon formed against us shall prosper (Isaiah 54:17).
  • He assures us that if he is for us, no one can be against us (Romans 8:31).
  • Long ago he let us know that he is greater and more powerful than he that is in the world (I John 4:4).
  • Our own experience should give us a personal confirmation that we should not be living in fear.

In fact, it is our great privilege and duty to be living in boldness without fear.  The psalmist recognized that fact and thus he penned the declaration 'though the earth gives way' and/or 'the mountains be moved into the sea', those who trust in God have no reason to fear.

Let's discuss the 'earth gives way'.  Certainly, this could be taken literally to mean that the entire earth would fall from the heavens.  But if that happened, fear would only be a factor for a matter of moments before all life would cease (either burned up or frozen, depending on which direction the planet would go). 

Alternatively, some catastrophic event could occur that literally causes the mountains to crash down into the sea.  But again, if that happened, the result would be a quick death for every living thing on the planet. 

Is there another interpretation?  We must keep in mind that the psalms are poetic in nature.   Poetry frequently assigns human characteristics to inanimate objects.  Could that be what is happening here? 

Did you know that the scriptures often use the sea as a metaphor for the nations of the world (Daniel 7:1-6), and mountains as individual kingdoms (Amos 6:1)?  The overall picture given here in poetic form is a situation in which the nations of the world are in turmoil.  No nation has an answer for the problems its people face.  Governments are constantly being overturned by rebellions or coups.  Each nation fears hostility from other nations, and worries what will happen to them if uncontrolled conflict erupts.  There is no 'world leader' to maintain peace and order.

I don't know about you, but that type of situation would invite fear into my life!

But as the people of God, we don't have to open the door to the spirit of fear when it comes knocking.  Christians stand upon the solid, unchanging rock Christ Jesus.  Our treasures are in heaven, where they cannot be destroyed; our life with God continues when this life is over.  We have been assured that Jesus is returning for his bride, and our future rests in him. 

In fact, if the earth suddenly evaporates, the person who has cause to fear is the unbeliever, who has laid up all their treasures on earth.  They will lose what they had in this life, and they have no life in eternity.

Do you see any parallels to this passage and the situation of the world governments today?  If so, does a spirit of fear try to rise up and take control of your life?  Don't allow yourself to get hit with that fiery dart of the enemy!  Get out your shield of faith and repel it.  Utilize your sword of the Spirit (the word of God) and chase fear away!

Psalms 46:4-5 – There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High. God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved; God will help her when morning dawns.

In opposition to the chaotic, fearful turmoil of the sea (world), God offers his people a river that flows from his habitation.  It is a river of peace and calmness.  It is a river of joy and blessing.  It is a river protection and healing.  It is a river of wisdom and strength.  It is a life-giving river.

Physically speaking, the psalmist probably refers to the waters of Siloam, which travel softly by Jerusalem (Isaiah 8:6-7).  This river was a defense to the people of God during the reign of Hezekiah (Isaiah 22:10-11). 

But spiritually speaking, there is a river of God that flows from his habitation or throne in heaven (Revelation 22:1-2).  The Tree of Life, whose leaves heal the nations, is on either side of it.  This is the same water that Jesus refers to in John 7:38-39, when he says out of our hearts (belly or literally womb) would flow rivers of living water.  This river of water refers to the Holy Spirit. 

The river or presence of the Holy Spirit brings the people of God peace, calmness, joy, blessing, guidance, wisdom, protection and healing.  The Spirit of God gives us life.

How would you classify your relationship to Holy Spirit?  Is it a close intimate one, or are you just acquaintances?  You can change your relationship with the Spirit in the same way you change physical relationships.  You get to know him better by spending time with him (prayer) by learning who he is and what his plans are (reading the word), and by engaging with him during your everyday life. 

Holy Spirit has gifts for you personally and gifts from God that he wants to manifest through you to a lost and dying world.  Are you open to that kind of a relationship with him?

Psalms 46:6-7 – The nations rage, the kingdoms totter; he utters his voice, the earth melts. The Lord of Hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.  Selah.

God is sovereign over all the nations of this world.  He rules from heaven by his power and providence, overruling all the affairs of men to bring about his own plans and glory.

He stops or holds in check the rage and power of the nations that oppose him and his interests in the world.  No one can stop him.

Not that men haven't tried - there were many people and nations who opposed Israel and opposed David as king, but God overruled them.  He spoke (uttered) his plans and purposes into existence; at his command, Israel was made a nation and David was made king.

Even now, there are many people and nations that oppose God's people – Israel, America and the church.  But we have a sure hope in God.  He cannot be moved.  If we allow ourselves to flow in the river of Holy Spirit and learn to obey him, we will be able to say "The Lord of Hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress!"

Through God, our nation can be saved and re-established in righteousness, leaving us a nation and a heritage that we can pass on to our descendants. 

Psalms 46:8-9 – Come, behold the works of the Lord, how he has brought desolations on the earth. He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; he breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the chariots with fire.

The scriptures record many instances of God bringing desolation or destruction upon kingdoms, cities and nations of the world.

Again, the writer may have had the Assyrian siege of Jerusalem in mind when he penned this poem.  But there are other instances as well.  God caused a very great destruction to come upon the cities of the Philistines when they took the Ark of the Covenant (I Samuel 5:9), he utterly destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19:24-25), and he has promised to destroy the lands of God and Magog (Ezekiel 38-39).  What other examples can you think of?

Obviously, no weapon of man can fight against the Lord; human military assets (bows, chariots, tanks, missiles, nuclear warheads) are useless against God.   

What point is the writer trying to make?  He is inviting the reader to contemplate known instances in which God has not just given victory to his people, but utterly and completely annihilated the enemy. 

By examining the evidence, the reader's faith is increased because he or she is reminded how completely and totally God delivers his people and brings an end to war.  This is abundant proof that God is able to protect his people in times of danger.

What modern day instances could be studied for this purpose?  How about the six-day war of 1967, in which Israel conquered her enemies?

Psalms 46:10-11 – Be still and know that I am God.  I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!  The Lord of Hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.  Selah.

After considering the great victories that God has wrought on behalf of his people, it should be much easier for us to be still and trust in him.

God has done, is doing and will continue to do great and mighty things.  In the midst of turmoil let us be reminded that God is working on our behalf, even when we don't see it!  He will bring about victory, even when the situation looks impossible to us!  His arm is never short that it cannot save! 

Let us remind ourselves about God's faithfulness.  He is faithful in every generation, even when we are not.  For that reason, we can live confidently knowing that he will bring about the perfect resolution to every situation we face in his perfect time.  There is no cause to worry or fret.  As we abide in him, we can be still and see him be glorified on the earth.

Hebrews 13:6 – So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do to me.

The mighty acts of God are also a witness to the unbelievers of the world.  At some point they too must be still in his presence.  Though they hate God, they will be forced to acknowledge that he is Lord, by bowing before him (Romans 14:11). 

Believers of every generation can triumph and rejoice in the fact that we have God's presence with us; the God of ALL power, authority and dominion is our Father!  God has bound us to himself through a covenant of blood through his only Son. 

Let me give you some encouragement, relief and strength:

The God of Jacob is our fortress!

Introduction:  Clearly, this Psalm was penned by David.  However, the time and place of writing is uncertain.  It seems as though the Psalm was written as he contemplated entering domestic life – being the head of his own household and family.  He lays down the rules or the standards which will govern his home and his family life. 

David then concludes that these same principles should govern not only his household, but his business dealings and his kingdom; they apply to all avenues of life. 

That being the case, the poetic verses of this Psalm are timeless.  Its principles have a universal application to God fearing men and women of all ages, backgrounds and levels of authority.

Psalms 101:1 – A Psalm of David.  I will sing of steadfast love and justice; to you, O Lord, I will make music.

Scripture tells us that out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks (Luke 6:45).  Therefore, we can conclude that David has been meditating on both the mercy (steadfast love) and justice (judgment) of God.    

Mercy is compassion or forgiveness shown toward someone whom it is within one's power to punish or harm.  It can also be defined as an action motivated by compassion, performed out of a desire to relieve suffering.

Justice is fairness; moral uprightness, just dealing or right action; using power/authority to support fair treatment and due reward.

When David considers these two aspects of God's character, it produces a profound joy which wells up inside him and bursts out as a song!

It should produce the same reaction in us.  Let's briefly consider God's mercy.  When mankind rebelled against God in the Garden of Eden, we essentially gave our earthly authority to Satan.  At that point, we were subject to him.  Since his main focuses are stealing, killing and destroying, that is what mankind could expect to get from him.

And that is exactly what we received.  Look around you.  Satan has tried to steal/kill/destroy everything that affects you.  He wants to steal your peace and leave you with anxiety.  He wants to steal your joy and leave you with depression.  He wants to kill your hopes, your dreams and your creativity.  He wants to destroy your health, your relationships, your finances and anything else he can get his hands on.  Consider what he did to Job!

But, hallelujah, the mercy of God has been manifested on the earth!  Because of the sacrifice of Christ, we no longer have to suffer under the dominion of Satan.  We can now experience true joy, peace and fulfillment.  We can live in hope.  We can see our dreams come true and our creativity benefitting mankind.  We can have lives that include good health, satisfying relationships, and abundant finances.

Stop and consider the mercy of God in your own life.  What has he done for you?  Don't be afraid to sing your own personal song of praise to God for what he has done for you.  It doesn't have to be perfect – just sincere.  I am sure God would love to hear it!

David also recognized that God's mercy is perfectly tempered by his justice/judgment.  God is longsuffering towards all sinners.  It is his desire for all men to be saved (II Peter 3:9).  But eventually, justice will come.  Those who choose to be enemies of God will eventually be punished by him.  Those who abuse and destroy the people of God (Jews and Christians) will eventually find themselves facing the wrath of God.  Sin will eventually be judged and punishment decreed. 

Every once in a while, you still find people who declare that God is love and he would never send anyone to hell.  Clearly, they have never taken the time to read the Bible!  God is certainly love; there can be no doubt about that.  But God's love is perfectly matched with his justice.  Therefore, he will punish those who do not turn from rebelling against him.

We primarily consider justice in regard to our enemy (Satan) and his followers, but justice also plays a role in discipline.  God does the right or just thing when he corrects us.  God loves his people, but like any good Father, he will discipline them if needed.   

Children who grow up without any discipline wind up being unstable and unreasonable adults.  If Christians grew up without any discipline from God, they would wind up being big spiritual babies, unfit to contribute to the kingdom of God.  God loves his children too much to allow them to end up that way.     

In David's case, he sees how God's perfect combination of mercy and justice bring forth a stable, peaceful environment that cultivates success of every kind.  Creativity and accomplishment, peace and joy, hopes and dreams all flourish under this type of loving yet controlled circumstance.  This is what David desires for his own household.  What principles are you using as the foundation for your house?

Psalms 101:2 – I will ponder the way that is blameless.  Oh when will you come to me?  I will walk with integrity of heart within my house;

Our translation says "I will ponder the way that is blameless", but I think the King James Version is significantly better.  It says "I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way".  One reason I think this is so much better is because there is a big difference between 'pondering' and 'behaving'.  Anyone can ponder or think about doing the right thing, but actually doing it is something else all together!

However, David's point is a good one – if you purpose in your heart to do what is right, that is likely what you will do when temptation comes.  

By purposing in our hearts and reminding ourselves that we will do what is righteous, we are building up a defense against evil attacks.  Let's face it – we all have areas of weakness.  So right now, you can begin to rehearse God's laws in your mind.  You can begin to purpose not to succumb to temptation in that area.  If we wait until the moment of temptation to decide how to handle things, the outcome might not be so good!

David's desire is that when God visits his house, He will find it being run according to righteous principles, including mercy and justice.  These principles apply to his own conduct, the way he treats those under his authority and anyone in his employ.  These are the rules that should govern our everyday lives:

Micah 6:8 - He has showed you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?

Sometimes we try to make Christianity so complicated, but it really isn't!  Loving God and treating our neighbors as ourselves really is the heart of Christianity.

 Here is something else to consider:  those who are faithful in little things make themselves available to God for much bigger things:

Luke 19:17 - And he said unto him, Well done, good servant: because you have been faithful in a very little, have authority over ten cities.

Have you ever desired for God to use you to accomplish something for his kingdom?  He is not going to start you out as the overseer of a million people.  That wouldn't be fair to you or them!  But if you are willing to minister to just one, and you do a good job, he may just give you two, or five.  Then 10 or 20 or more. 

David will one day rule the nation, but he needs to rule his own house first.  So if your desire is to do more or greater things for God, make sure you are being a wise steward of what you currently have!

Psalms 101:3-4 – I will not set before my eyes anything that is worthless.  I hate the work of those who fall away; it shall not cling to me.  A perverse heart shall be far from me; I will know nothing of evil.

Have you ever taken a walk through the woods and found brambles or briars stuck to your clothing when you returned?  Or even worse, maybe you found a tick that hitched a ride on you or your pet.  Obviously, you don't want briars or ticks clinging to you; you no doubt find them abhorrent and you will remove them immediately.

Spiritually speaking, you can't separate yourself from the world - you have to walk through it.  You are going to come into contact with people who do wicked things.  But David vows that this kind of person will not have a place of influence or authority in his world.  He hates their evil works; he will not allow their evil to cling to him like a tick.

Although ticks are small, they feed on your life's blood and infect you with disease.  In the same way, sin can be small, but it is not harmless!  Let me repeat that:  You may have a sin that seems small or insignificant, but no sin is harmless. 

David understands that any sin which clings to him will affect his reputation, his family and his kingdom.  For this reason, he vows to keep even the smallest sin away from his sight.

What about you?  Do you have sin in your life that you consider to be small?  Answer this question - What makes it small?

As humans, we tend to categorize sin into what we consider small sins (white lies, holding a grudge) and big sins (murder), but God makes no such distinctions.  All sin is despicable in the sight of God.  No sin of any kind can exist in the presence of his holiness.  It might be time for us to adopt David's view of sin! 

Psalms 101:5 – Whoever slanders his neighbor secretly I will destroy.  Whoever has a haughty look and an arrogant heart I will not endure.

David now speaks of two specific sins that still occur in the present time.  Both are very destructive. 

If a person has something good to say about someone else, they will normally say it openly.  However, if they have something bad to say, it will likely be said in secret.  This is how rumors get started, how reputations get tarnished, how ministries are destroyed and how churches are torn apart.  Just think about how much damage has been done to people (and the cause of Christ) with just this one sin! 

The wickedness perpetrated by secretly speaking evil can be likened to an ambush – the person under attack does not even know they are being assaulted!  They have no chance to defend themselves.  By the time they discover a rumor is out there, the damage has been done and it is virtually impossible to repair.  This is a despicable sin; yet who among us has not either participated in it or been a victim of it?

The second sin David specifically mentions is pride or an arrogant heart.  This person considers themselves to be better than others.  As a result of this belief, they will not hesitate to slander someone.  They will not hesitate to withhold mercy or justice.

In addition, they often consider themselves to be above the law.  This is very dangerous mindset for anyone in authority.  Fortunately for the people of Israel, David has vowed that he hates these sins and they will have no place in the administration of his kingdom.  Truly, David was a man after God's own heart.  Are you?   

Psalms 101:6 – I will look with favor on the faithful in the land, that they may dwell with me; he who walks in the way that is blameless shall minister to me.

Every ruler, including the president of the United States, has advisors, councilors and confidants.  These are people who assist or advise the president in making decisions that will affect the whole nation.  If these advisors are wicked, what will happen to the nation and its people? 

Instead of looking upon or endorsing that which is evil, David will place his favor upon people who are faithful, humble, upright servants of God.  These are the qualifications he is looking for in his future councilors and confidants.  If the ruler of the nation and his advisors are righteous, what will happen to the nation and its people?

In this case, we don't have to wonder – we know.  The reigns of David and his son Solomon are considered the 'golden age' of Israel.  It was a time characterized by peace, prosperity and justice.  People were happy and free to enjoy life.  As a nation, Israel enjoyed the respect of other nations.  In the midst of all this, God was glorified.

But not too long afterward, we find a ruler who surrounded himself with worthless advisors.  He was Solomon's son, Rehoboam.  You can read the whole story in I Kings chapter 12, but basically it went something like this:  Immediately after Rehoboam became king, the people came to him and asked him to cut their taxes.

The councilors who previously served Solomon advised the new king to earn the loyalty of the people by giving them a tax break.  The new, haughty councilors chosen by Rehoboam advised the king to make the taxes even higher!

The king chose the advice of the arrogant young men, and increased the taxes.  As a result, there was a rebellion.  Eleven of the twelve tribes of Israel decided to elect and serve a new king (Jeroboam), and Rehoboam was left to rule only the tribe of Judah.  Too bad Rehoboam surrounded himself with haughty, unwise advisors!

Who are you taking advice from?  When you have an issue and you need wise council, who do you turn to?  Are they basing their wisdom on God's law or man's?             

Psalms 101:7 – No one who practices deceit shall dwell in my house; no one who utters lies shall continue before my eyes.  

The man or woman who exhibited dishonesty, false pretences or trickery was not going to be a part of David's life.  He would not go into business with them, make an alliance or partnership with them, employ them or allow them to occupy a place of authority in his kingdom. 

If a person of this character somehow made it into the life of David, he was determined to banish them as soon as he found out.  While this may have seemed ridiculous or overly zealous at the time, David ensured a smooth life for himself by nipping trouble in the bud.  By not entangling himself with these men in the first place, he spared himself the cost and embarrassment of being associated with them later on, when their sins were made public.

Now there is some really, really good advice – do with it as you will!

Psalms 101:8 – Morning by morning I will destroy all the wicked in the land, cutting off all the evildoers from the city of the Lord.

The city of the Lord is Jerusalem.  At the time he composed this Psalm David was not yet king.  He is purposing in his heart what he will do when his kingdom is established.

The same principles that he will use to run his own household are the ones he will use to govern all of God's people.  When he is king, he will do everything within his power to purge the land from wicked people and their practices. 

The phrase 'morning by morning' indicates that this effort will be constant.  It isn't something that David can do one time and the issue will be permanently settled.  Evil will not stay at bay forever; those who want to purge it from their society/culture must always be on guard or it will creep back in.

Let me offer you some encouragement:

It seems as though the Christians in our nation have run away from serving in public office.  This has turned out to be a mistake!  We need men and women of God who are willing to serve in public office and steward that position of authority and power for the glory of God, just as David did.   

If you feel God is calling you to some public office (no matter what that might be), I encourage you to pursue that with all of your might!  Your community and your nation need you!

Let me offer you some relief:

David determined very early in his life to exhibit mercy and justice in all of his affairs, starting with his own household.  Maybe you already have a household, but you started out with different laws like anger or favoritism.  Let me offer you some relief – it's not too late to change! 

Begin to purpose in your heart that you want to treat those in your household and place of employment with the same principles that David did.  Begin to ask Holy Spirit to help you make that change. 

Let me offer you some strength:

Basing your life on Christian principles in general and mercy/justice in particular, is going to make you different from the world around you.  That is a good thing!  When people see those principles at work in your life, they will want to be part of what you are doing!  Who doesn't want to work for a person who shows mercy and justice? 

So determine in your heart what you are going to do, and stick to it.  God will give you the strength to establish these principles in your life and he will bring about opportunities to be a witness for him!

 

Hello!  I hope you enjoyed our last study on the book of II Peter.  Rather than beginning a new book, we are going to spend the last few weeks of summer by looking at some of the Psalms. 

A study of the entire book would be quite an undertaking – at 150 chapters it would take years!  Instead, we will spread them out over time, examining a few here and there. 

Our look at the Psalms will be a bit different from our study of other biblical books.  Since this is a book of poetry/songs, we are going to read and reflect on the main concepts, rather than intently studying every aspect of it.  So let's relax and meditate on our wonderful heavenly Father!

Psalms 4:1 – Answer me when I call, O God of my righteousness!  You have given me relief when I was in distress.  Be gracious to me and hear my prayer!

Psalms 3 and 4 were composed by King David.  It appears as though they were written as a pair – the third Psalm being sung in morning worship, and the fourth Psalm sung as the evening worship of the same day.

The circumstances under which this song was written are not specifically revealed in the song itself, however, both Jewish interpreters and Christian expositors are in agreement that it was written during the rebellion of Absalom (see II Samuel 13-19 for the complete story).

Let's consider that for a moment.  We are well aware that David was not perfect.  We also know that he had a lot of family problems, especially with his kids.  Perhaps our first reflection is that following Jesus does not guarantee a trouble-free life!

How should we respond to the trouble that is sure to cross our path?  David says "Answer me when I call, O God".  To call on God means to pray; to reach out to the one who holds our future in his hands. He formed us in our mother's womb; he knows when we sit down, when we rise up, and every word we speak before it passes our lips.  He knows the number of hairs on our head and he knows the plans he has for us.  What a comfort to call upon God in prayer knowing that he is bigger than any problem we face. Hallelujah!

Here is one of the wonderful things about prayer:  It is as individual as each one of us!  No two people pray in the same manner.  Some people are very formal when they pray, while others are more relaxed.  Some people like to walk around while some kneel or sit.  Some speak loudly, while others whisper.  We can pray with our understanding and we can pray in the Spirit.  Sometimes, when our grief or pain is extremely intense we only have to call out his name – Jesus – and he is there to comfort us, bringing peace and strength. 

I really hope that you are not embarrassed or ashamed of the way you pray.  I hope you don't compare your prayers to the prayers of others.  I hope you are not afraid to pray out loud in front of other people.  Since your relationship with God is unique, it only makes sense that your prayer life will be also.  Just relax and talk to your Father in whatever way seems natural to you.

Aren't you glad that you have a relationship with God?  Aren't you glad that Jesus paid the price for your sin, so you can go boldly into the throne room of God and obtain help in the times of trouble?

Hebrews 4:16 - Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. 

Why can David so confidently bring his petitions before the Lord?  Because he knows from experience that "You have given me relief when I was in distress."  In other words, God not only hears our prayers, he answers them! 

Take a few moments right now to reflect on that:

  • What is the biggest prayer that God answered for you?  Think back and remember the times when you thought there was no possible answer to your dilemma, but God stunned you by making a way.
  • Now, consider the smallest, seemingly insignificant prayer that God answered for you.  Isn't it amazing that he cares about every aspect of your life?  Isn't it incredible that he wants to be involved in everything that concerns you, whether big or small?  God is so good!

As you reflect on the answers to past prayers, let it fuel your faith for your current situation.  God answered you in the past and he will do it again.

Psalms 4:2 –O men, how long shall my honor be turned into shame?  How long will you love vain words and seek after lies?  Selah.

Switching subjects, David now poetically addresses his adversaries - those engaged in persecuting him.  In his case, that would be Absalom and his followers who had caused David to flee Jerusalem.  They want to see David running for his life, reduced to poverty and shame, while they rise up to claim the authority and honor of his throne.

But these wicked men are making a big mistake.  Their evil desires are vain and hopeless.  Ultimately, they will be unsuccessful.  Why is that?

It's because they ignored the fact that David did not anoint himself as king – GOD did!  The wicked plans of man cannot over rule the purposes of God.  No matter how hard these men tried, they were not going to take the kingdom from David.  Fighting against David was like fighting against God himself. 

What a comforting thought!  Even now there are evil forces at work in the world that want to steal the blessings God has set aside for you (and for America).  They will try to discourage you, humiliate you and bring you to ruin.  They will throw roadblocks along your path.  They will even curse you, as Shimei did to David as he fled from Absalom (II Samuel 16:13).

But don't listen to them!  Your hope is in God.  He will lead you, sustain you and empower you to fulfill the unique destiny he has prepared for you.

In the natural realm, Absalom represented a very real and grievous threat to David's kingdom.  But in the spiritual realm, the only thing that could have caused David to lose the kingdom was David himself.  If he had given up hope or ceased to believe the promises of God, Absalom would indeed have usurped the throne.  However, as David continued to trust in God, the plans of his adversaries were thwarted. 

God is standing by to do the same for you.  Seek him, place your faith in him, and obey what he commands you to do.  Victory will be yours!

Psalms 4:3 – But know that the Lord has set apart the godly for himself; the Lord hears when I call to him.

Do you have some special possession that you cherish?  Think about that item as you ask yourself these questions:  What makes it special?  Is it valuable?  Is it one of a kind?  Is it beautiful?  Does it bring you joy?  Does it remind you of someone you love?

David tells us that God considers YOU a precious treasure that he has set apart for himself!  You are special to God.  God considers you priceless.  I know that because he spent the blood of his only Son just to buy you back from sin.  You are one of a kind.  God has made billions of people yet each one of us have different DNA and different fingerprints.  You were not made on an assembly line, you were custom made by your Father.  Are you beautiful?  Of course you are!  Don't judge yourself by the shallow and ever-changing beauty standards of mankind.  God loves beauty and everything he creates contains it. Do you bring joy to God?  You sure do!

Isaiah 62:5 - ...as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride, so shall your God rejoice over you.

Know this:  God has set YOU aside for himself.  He has set his favor upon you.  He has created you to be a living temple, full of his Spirit, reflecting his glory.  He has chosen you to represent him in this generation, and to exercise His authority on earth.  He has given you the keys to his kingdom and power over the enemy.  Obviously, when you call out to him, he is going to hear you!

Psalms 4:4 – Be angry and do not sin; ponder in your own hearts on your beds, and be silent.  Selah.

"Be angry" can also be translated "Stand in awe".  David is calling upon us to consider the awesome holiness, character and power of God.  When we consider the character and nature of God, it should make us painfully aware of our own sin.   It should inspire us to be more holy.

What facet of God's character is most precious to you?  Is it his righteousness?  His mercy?  His perfection?  His love?  His wisdom?  It's hard to choose just one, isn't it?  And just think – these are the parts of God that we know about.  I have a feeling there is much more to be discovered!

David also encourages us to soberly examine our own hearts/lives.  What have we said and done today?  Were our actions, thoughts and words pleasing to the Lord?  Did they encourage and edify others?  Did they lead sinners to the light of Jesus Christ?  If not, what changes can we make?

I have to add this final thought:  Examining our own lives is essential, but doing so in bed may not be such a good idea.  Personally, I would be asleep in three minutes!

Psalms 4:5 – Offer right sacrifices, and put your trust in the Lord.

Let's talk about sacrifice for a minute.  To sacrifice means to give up something of importance or value for the sake of other considerations. 

Obviously, this is a concept presented all throughout scripture, with Jesus as the ultimate example.  God gave up something of importance or value to himself in order to redeem you and me. 

Let's consider the nature of sacrifices.  In the New Testament, Jesus watched people putting money into the offering plate at the temple.  He declared that a widow who gave a penny had sacrificed more than others who put in $100 (Mark 12:41-44).

According to Jesus, the value of the sacrifice was based on how much it cost the giver.  In other words, the man who gave $100 wasn't going to miss it much, so it wasn't a costly sacrifice for him.  Meanwhile, the widow literally had nothing so the penny she placed in the plate was all she had to sustain herself.  For that reason, it was a very costly sacrifice indeed.

Here is another example.  King David was in the midst of a huge crisis.  An avenging angel was destroying the people of Israel.  David knew that a proper sacrifice to the Lord could stop the judgment.  At that point, one of his subjects offered him a tract of land and some excellent oxen for free; David could sacrifice them immediately.  But David refused the offer: 

II Samuel 24:24 – But the king [David] said to Araunah, "I will not offer burnt offerings to the Lord my God that cost me nothing."

David understood the concept of a 'right' sacrifice.  If there was no true cost to David then his sacrifice would have been just like the $100 given to the temple by the rich man.  It would not have caused God to stop the avenging angel.

But David paused and purchased the land and oxen from Araunah at full price.  As a result, the sacrifice was legitimate, and it was accepted by God.    

What is the nature of your sacrifice to God?  Are you giving him time, money or talents that you wouldn't miss anyway, or does your sacrifice represent a true cost?

Psalms 4:6-7 – There are many who say, "Who will show us some good?  Lift up the light of your face upon us, O Lord!"  You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and wine abound.

How do sinners like Absalom define 'good'?  They look for the fleeting honors and pleasures of this life, such as food, drink, entertainment and economic stability.   They look no further than the comforts of the flesh.

But true believers know that these things are of no value without a right relationship to God.  What good is the security of this life, unless one has eternal security for their soul?

Matthew 16:26 - For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?  Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?  

Would you give anything in exchange for your eternal soul?  NO WAY!  There may be times when you are tempted to envy the material possessions of others.  But don't take Satan's bait!

As David indicates, true joy comes when God turns his face towards us and we have a relationship with him.  For the Christian, nothing can compare to the richness and exhilaration of a life lived with Christ.  This kind of life is not tied to how much money you make, where you live, or what you eat.  It is for anyone and everyone!

Psalms 4:8 – In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety. 

As Christians, we should be able to lay down at night and get some rest, free of worry about our enemies and their plans.

  • We do this by releasing our fears and concerns to God through prayer and worship.
  • We do this by using our shield of faith to repel the fiery darts of worry and anxiety that Satan tries to launch at us at 2 am! 
  • We do this by using the sword of the Spirit (the word of God) against the lies of the enemy.
God has given us the tools for a good night's sleep - let's use them!

But consider this as well:  Sleep is also a euphemism for death.  At some point, you and I will go to 'sleep' on earth and wake up in heaven.  As believers, we are safe and secure in the knowledge that God has prepared a place for us in his eternal kingdom, where we will live in his presence forevermore! 

Let me offer you some encouragement:

We all know there are struggles in this life.  But let's rise above that.  Let's be like David – let's worship in the morning, preparing ourselves to serve Christ that day.  And let's worship him in the evening, knowing that we rest in the peace and safety of our Lord and Savior.  Before you know it, God will be calling us home to heaven!

Let me offer you some relief:

I want to reiterate this once again:  YOU are special to God!  He values you no matter what (or how many) mistakes you made.  He loves you so much, he sacrificed his only Son in order to win you back from the clutches of Satan!  There is no sin he won't forgive.   

So don't let anyone tell you that you have no value or that you are worthless; those are the lies of your enemy.  Enter into the courts of the Lord and allow him to reveal to you just how much he cares!  

Let me offer you some strength:    

Absalom seemed to have everything the world offered.  He was young, handsome, rich and well connected.  He had the support of many people.  And for a while, it looked like he had the upper hand.  But he could not take the throne of his father, because God had reserved that just for David.    

God also has blessings reserved for you.  No one can take them from you, unless you give up and allow that to happen.  So stand strong and claim the promises that God has placed within your heart!

 

We are interrupting our study of 1 Peter for a special lesson this week.  This is a timely lesson for those in the Kipton Church who are currently meeting to pray for revival as well as a mighty move of God's power in our midst.

We have been practicing praying and declaring the word of God.  This is a biblically sound concept, as noted in today's text from the book of Revelation:

Revelation 19:11-16 - And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war.  His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself. 

And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God.  And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean.  And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.  And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.

I don't know about you, but I get goose bumps just reading those verses!

But the thing I want to draw your attention to is in verse 15, where the scripture says "out of his [Jesus] mouth goeth a sharp sword".  

Now, is this literal?  Is Jesus going to go riding out on his white horse with a literal metal sword clamped in his teeth?  Is he going to swing his head back and forth to fight against his enemies?  Of course not!

The key to what is happening here can be found in Ephesians:

Ephesians 6:17 – and take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit which is the word of God.

So obviously, the sword of Jesus is not a literal sword made of metal.  His sword is the word of God.

Now back to the scene in Revelation.  Is Jesus riding on his white horse and when he opens his mouth a bible pops out?  Or maybe a cell phone with an electronic copy of the bible on it?  Is Jesus going to fight the enemy with a phone or an ipad?  Of course not!

Jesus wields the sword of the Spirit by SPEAKING AND/OR DECLARING THE WORD OF GOD! 

The word of God is the sword that Jesus uses to defeat his enemies.  This is not a new concept.  We saw Jesus doing this while he was on earth doing battle with Satan during what is now known as the wilderness temptation.

Matthew 4:4 - But he [Jesus] answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.

In every instance of temptation, Jesus defeats Satan by speaking/quoting the word of God.  And that's not all:

  • In Matthew 21, when Jesus cursed the fig tree and it withered from the roots, how did he do it?  He opened up his mouth, and used words.
  • When Jesus calmed the storm (wind/sea) that threatened to overtake the boat in Mark 4, how did he do it?  He opened up his mouth and spoke to the wind and the sea.
  • In Matthew 17 when the disciples needed help freeing a boy from a demon, how did Jesus do it?  He opened up his mouth, and rebuked the demon.

In Mark chapter 11, when Jesus taught the disciples about mountain moving faith, did he instruct them to pray about the mountain? No, he did not.

Did he instruct them to worry about the mountain?  No, he did not.

Did he tell them beg and plead with God to move the mountain?  No, he did not.

He told them to SPEAK DIRECTLY TO THAT OBSTACLE (with words, using their mouths) AND ORDER IT TO BE MOVED INTO THE SEA.

As Christians, we have all been trained to pray, and that is a good thing.  But we have also been instructed by Jesus (through both teaching and example) that our words have power in the spiritual realm.  As we speak the word of God out loud in faith, it goes into the spiritual realm and it causes a reaction from heaven.  Our words, spoken in faith, open the door for God to visit the earthly realm and bring about changes.  Bringing about (or birthing) the will of God on earth is a partnership between God and us.  We speak out in faith exercising the authority God has given us, and God brings about the change. 

The spoken word of God is not just the sword of Jesus.  It is the sword of every believer.  It is part of our spiritual armor.  It is the way we engage the enemy, and defeat him.  Should we pray?  Absolutely! 

1 John 5:14-15 -  And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us: and if we know that he hears us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the requests that we desired of him.

However, prayer is only part of our arsenal.  It is ABSOLUTELY VITAL that we begin to speak the word in faith, and begin to use the authority that Jesus has given us. 

We wonder why we don't see many miracles today.  Perhaps part of the problem is that we are not using the authority God has given us.  Let's remind ourselves what God has given us:

  • The authority to bind and loose (Matthew 18:18).
  • The power of agreement (Matthew 18:19). 
  • Authority over all demons and the authority to cure all sickness (Luke 9:1-2).
  • The ability to call those things that are not as though they are (Romans 4:17).
  • The power of the blood of Jesus and our testimony (Revelation 12:11).

We exercise this authority with our mouths, through faith.

Furthermore, God tells us that his word is living and powerful (Hebrews 4:12), and that he watches over his word, to perform it (Jeremiah 1:12).  So we need to get busy speaking the word over situations in our lives and in our nation that do not conform to the will of God.

Now, this is not to imply that a single 'dose' of the word will instantly change a situation.  We are not going to examine the reasons for this right now.  For now, let's just get started.  And let's decide in advance that we are going to persevere.  We must continue to speak and pray in faith, until we see the situation conform itself to the will of God.  In the book of Galatians chapter 6, Paul assures us that if we do not grow weary and give up, we will reap the change we are seeking.

So, to help you get started, I have included 11 scriptures in this post.  I strongly urge you use the list this way:

  • Speak out the scripture, as written.
  • Then personalize and speak out the declaration.
  • Pray over that scripture and declaration, asking God for change.

You can use this list exactly as it appears, or you can use it as a model and make your own list. Please feel free to share it with anyone who will use it.

Now is the time for all Christians to BEGIN TO SPEAK IN FAITH AND TAKE AUTHORITY OVER THEIR SITUATIONS.

As a side note, I especially want to draw your attention to scripture #11.  As explained below, I am using this passage to pray for America.  I think you will find it an invaluable scripture for this use.

LIST OF DECLARATIONS

#1 Acts 4:29-30 – Now Lord, look upon their threats and grant to your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness, while you stretch out your hand to heal, and signs and wonders are performed through the name of your holy servant Jesus.

Declaration:  I believe and declare that I am filled with Holy Spirit and speak the word of God with all boldness. God will confirm his word with signs and wonders which will result in salvation and deliverance for the people of (city name) and all who hear of it.

Prayer suggestion:  Pray for open doors in your community to share the gospel and pray for people, believing that God is going to confirm your testimony with miracles.

#2 2 Peter 3:9 – The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

I Thessalonians 5:9 – For God has not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ.

Isaiah 46:13- I bring near my righteousness; it shall not be far off, and my salvation shall not tarry; and I will place salvation in Zion for Israel my glory.

Declaration: I believe and declare that the will of God is coming to pass on earth, even as it is in heaven.  God's will does not tarry; it is manifested this very day.  I decree that today is the day of salvation through Jesus Christ to every single person in (city name), and all those I am praying for including (insert name here).

Prayer suggestions:  It is God's will for people to be saved, freed from addiction and healed from all physical, mental and emotional sickness. Jesus paid the price for these blessings on the cross.  Pray for his will to come immediately to those on your prayer list.

#3 Isaiah 55:10-11 – For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return there but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me void, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.

Declaration:  I believe and declare that God's word is flowing freely to the uttermost parts of the earth.  Wherever it flows, it brings life and spiritual fruitfulness, accomplishing the purposes of God and destroying the works of the devil. 

Prayer suggestions:  The gospel goes out into the world 24/7.  Think of all the seeds that have been planted in the hearts of people that have not yet sprouted and grown!  Perhaps some were planted into people as children (your children?) but have never been fruitful.  Pray for Holy Spirit rain to come down, and bring life to those hidden seeds.

#4 Isaiah 43:18-19 – Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old.  Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?  I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert, to give drink to my chosen people, the people whom I formed for myself that they might declare my praise.

Declaration:  I believe and declare that the past is behind me.  My sins are forgiven by the blood of Christ.  God is doing new amazing things in my life and using me in new ways, for his glory.  I am filled with Holy Spirit power.  I am a new wineskin.  I am exercising the authority God has given me to cure all sickness, cast our demons, bind and loose, preach the word, and call the things that are not as though they are, so that his kingdom may be manifested on earth as it is in heaven.  I decree that His name is and will be glorified and praised in all the earth.

Prayer suggestions:  Spend time in prayer, seeking wisdom from Holy Spirit as to what he is doing/wants to do in your community and in the lives of your family.  Get in agreement with it, and use your spiritual authority to enforce it in their lives.

#5 Isaiah 49:25 – But thus says the LORD, Even the captives of the mighty shall be taken away, and the prey of the terrible shall be delivered; for I will contend with him that contends with you, and I will save your children.

Declaration:  I believe and declare that (insert personal name or city name here) is even now set free from Satanic bondage and blindness, because God himself fights for possession of (name).  We declare that the mind of (name) is awakened to clearly see the truth of the gospel.  We not only claim the life of (name) for Christ, but we hereby lay claim to all his/her descendants.

Prayer suggestion:  Pray for spiritual blindness to be removed from your city/loved one so that the truth of the gospel can be clearly seen.  Pray (bind/loose, declare, apply the blood of Christ, etc) against any strong hold, addiction, sickness, poverty, generational curse, etc.

#6 Joel 2:28-29 – And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh, your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams and your you men shall see visions.  Even on the male and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit.

Declaration:  I believe and declare that Holy Spirit is actively at work in my life.  He has filled me with his power, wisdom and spiritual gifts.  He is actively involved in communicating with me and other believers.  I declare that I hear his voice and I follow his leading.

Prayer suggestions:  Pray for the baptism of Holy Spirit.  Ask Jesus for a spiritual prayer language, then use it.  Ask the Lord to speak to you, whether through dreams, visions, tongues, etc.  Work on your ability to hear him and follow his leading.

#7 Deuteronomy 20:1 – When you go out to war against your enemies, and see horses and chariots and an army larger than your own, you shall not be afraid of them, for the Lord your God is with you, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt.

Esther 8:11 - ...the king allowed the Jews who were in every city to gather and defend their lives, to destroy, to kill and to annihilate any armed force of any people or province that might attack them, children and women included, and to plunder their goods.

Declaration:  I believe and declare that greater is He that is in me, than he that is in the world.  I am clothed with the full armor of God and I am not afraid of the enemy, for no weapon formed against me will prosper.  God has given me his authority to destroy and bring to nothing the evil that Satan has planned for me, my family, and the people of America/earth.

Prayer suggestion:  Begin to engage in spiritual warfare for your personal life – your children, your finances, your health, your ministry - everything that concerns you.  It is your right to fight for victory in your own family.  Once you have slain the 'lions and bears' of today, you will have the confidence and faith to face the 'Goliaths' of the future.  Don't try to rely or depend on someone else to do this for you - it is not only your privilege, but your responsibility.

#8 John 16:23-34 – Truly, truly, I say to you, whatever you ask of the Father in my name, he will give it to you.  Until now you have asked nothing in my name.  Ask and you will receive, that your joy may be full.

Psalm 84:11 - For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.

Declaration:  I believe and declare that God watches over his word to perform it.  I do not need to beg God for anything; I simply ask in faith.  He joyously hears and answers my prayers, giving me everything that I need to live a victorious, abundant, fulfilling life.

Prayer suggestion:  God already has the answers to your problems lined up for you.  In faith, with an open mind, ask him for a solution.  He may not answer in the way you imagined, but his way/answer/solution/provision/open door will be perfect for you.

#9 Mark 11:23 - For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be removed, and be cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he said shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he said.

Declaration:  I believe and declare that nothing is impossible with God!  Even now, my circumstances are conforming to the will of God.  I place my faith in the Alpha and Omega, the one who moves mountains, the one who has never lost a battle, the one who knows the end from the beginning, the one who watches over his word to perform it; the only eternal God and King who reigns forever and ever!

Prayer suggestion:  Rise up in the authority God has given you.  Speak directly to that mountain, commanding it to conform to God's will, like Jesus did when he cursed the fig tree.

#10 Numbers 10:35 – And it came to pass when the ark set forward, Moses said, "Rise up Lord, and let thine enemies be scattered.  Let them that hate thee flee from before thee.

Declaration:  I believe and declare that God is in our midst, and that he is moving in the world today, actively fighting against the forces of darkness, who run away from his presence.

Prayer suggestion:  Satan will flee from the presence of God.  Use praise and worship to bring God's presence into situations, and watch the devil run!  Begin to thank the Lord for the answers you have seen with the eye of faith, even though they have not yet manifested in the natural realm.

#11 Proverbs 6:16-19 – There are six things that the Lord hates, seven that are an abomination to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that make haste to run to evil, a false witness who breathes out lies, and one who sows discord among brothers.

This scripture passage in Proverbs is one that I am using for declarations on a national level, for America.  For example, our government currently sanctions abortion, which is the shedding of innocent blood, and we know that God hates that.  So I might declare something like this:

Declaration:  I believe and declare that God hates abortion and therefore it has no place in the nation of America.  I declare that Americans will no longer be blind to the sin of abortion; they will recognize its evil and reject it.  I decree that the laws of abortion will be abolished in this nation and American law will conform to the will of God.

Prayer suggestions:  In my opinion, all of the evil and wrong doing that the government is now perpetrating fits into one of the seven categories mentioned in Proverbs, so speak out/decree against any/all of their actions using this passage in Proverbs.

FYI, we are seeing a lot of 'sowing discord among brothers' in our nation today, so be sure to include that one especially right now.

 

Matthew 26:31 – Then Jesus said to them, "You will all fall away because of m this night.  For it is written, 'I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.'"

Wow!  Jesus' last night on earth is proving to be emotionally draining to the apostles. 

First, Jesus washes their feet (John 13).  This was an utterly unexpected act, which the disciples were hesitant to accept at first.  I am sure it made them uncomfortable.  But they followed the leading of Jesus, despite its unconventional nature.

Just as things seem to get back to normal during the Passover celebration, Jesus makes the shocking revelation that one of them would betray him.  All of them are alarmed and horrified.  There would have been a great tide of raw emotion as each one questions if he might be the one.  But then a wave of sweet relief washed over the eleven, as each one realized he was not the one.

I am sure they were expecting a typical ending to the Passover celebration; an ending like dozens of endings they had experienced in the past.  But not that night!  At the close of Passover, Jesus institutes a new sacrament – communion.

Again, a feeling of normalcy must have taken over as they sung the closing hymns and gave thanks to God.  But as they depart for the Mount of Olives, Jesus blows their minds again:  that very night, in a matter of hours, they will ALL abandon the Teacher/Messiah that they love so dearly!

Can you imagine the second wave of shock and disbelief that overcomes them?  Furthermore, Jesus tells them that their abandonment of him was prophesied hundreds of years before:  

Zechariah 13:7 – "Awake, O sword, against my shepherd, against the man who stands next to me," declares the Lord of hosts.  "Strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered; I will turn my hand against the little ones."

In Zechariah, God speaks of awakening or permitting the sword of his wrath to fall upon the shepherd (Jesus) and smite him.  This speaks of the suffering that Jesus would endure on earth before and during his crucifixion. 

Once that sword of suffering began to fall, the sheep (disciples) would be scattered (run away, abandon Jesus).  This was perfectly fulfilled on the night Jesus was betrayed.

Scattered is an interesting term.  It means to strew about or to separate in different directions.  In other words, once Jesus was arrested, each disciple immediately turned to the care of himself without regard for Jesus or their fellow apostles.  When death drew close, it was instantly 'every man for himself'. 

Matthew 26:32 – "But after I am raised up, I will go before you to Galilee."

But again, words of hope and comfort are given to the followers of Jesus.  They hardly had time to process the fact that they would abandon the savior before he assures them that their actions will not be the end of the relationship.   

They will forsake Jesus, but He will be faithful to them.  They are going to stumble, but He will pick them up.  Once He is risen, He will tenderly and lovingly gather them together again.  He will go before them, as a true shepherd goes before his sheep.

Matthew 26:33 – Peter answered him, "Though they all fall away because of you, I will never fall away."

Peter adamantly rejects notion that he would ever abandon Christ.  With the utmost confidence he binds himself to a promise – 'I will not be offended and run away'.  But he doesn't stop there; he presumptuously claims that he would NEVER be offended in Christ. 

Hmm... had his declaration been made in an attitude of humble dependency upon the grace of God, it might have been acceptable. But clearly, it was being made out of confidence in his own fleshly power and courage.

Evidently, down in his heart, he feels that he is better than his fellow disciples; they may fall, but he will not.  His pride and self confidence are readily apparent in his conversation.  He assumes that he is safe from any and all temptations and weaknesses that are common to mankind. 

In reality, he has no idea just how weak he truly is! 

Matthew 26:34 – Jesus said to him, "Truly, I tell you, this very night, before the rooster crows, you will deny me three times."

Peter is sure that he will escape the temptation better than any of his fellow apostles, but in fact, he will do worse.  He would not only run away out of fear, but he would disown Jesus – not once, but three separate times.

Matthew 26:35 – Peter said to him, "Even if I must die with you, I will not deny you!"  And all the disciples said the same.

Clearly Peter knew what he SHOULD do – die with Christ rather than denying him (Luke 14:26). 

He knew what he WANTED to do – be faithful to his Lord, no matter what the cost (Luke 9:62).

Though his intentions were noble, he was POWERLESS to stand when the trial/temptation came.

Peter would soon find out that although death does not look so formidable at a distance, it can be scary close up!  When it draws near, your natural (fleshly) reactions are fear and flight.  Sure enough, when the soldiers came to arrest Jesus, fear took over, and Peter fled the scene. 

What about us?  Are we in a position to stand firm when trials and temptations come to us?  How can we avoid the same mistake that Peter made on that long ago night?

One thing we can do is make sure we are wearing the full armor of God:

Ephesians 6:11-12 - Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.  For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in heavenly places.

The apostles failed to stand that night because they were operating in their own fleshly power.  It takes spiritual weapons to fight spiritual battles.  Spiritual attacks can only be thwarted with spiritual defenses: 

Ephesians 6:13 - Therefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

Let's take a quick review of the spiritual armor available to us:

Ephesians 6:14 - Stand therefore, having your loins girded about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;

Integrity, holiness and purity in life are automatic defenses against many of the assaults of Satan.  There is an old saying 'those who play with fire get burned'.  Don't play with sin – if you do, temptation will overcome you every time.

One of the greatest defenses you have is truth.  This doesn't mean just telling the truth in everyday life.  The Bible tells us that God's word is truth (John 17:17).  It is vital that you know and recognize truth as defined in the Bible, because the world is constantly whispering lies into your ears. 

  • The world says that sexual perversions are legitimate alternate lifestyles.  God says that marriage is exclusively between one man and one woman.
  • The world says that all religions can coexist; all roads lead to heaven.  The bible says Jesus Christ is the way, the truth and the life, no one comes to the Father except through Him.
  • The world says you are descended from a monkey.  The bible says that man was created in the image of God.
  • The world says that God is either dead or powerless.  The bible says that Jesus reigns and that he will one day put all enemies under his feet.

I am sure that each of us could give many other examples.  The point is, if you want to stand in times of trial and temptation, you need to know what the truth really is! 

Ephesians 6:15-16 -  And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, with which you shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one.  

Do you have your shoes on?  Are you ready to give a simple account of the gospel message to those around you?  If not, take the time to put together some scriptures so that you are ready to harvest a life for Christ when the opportunity arises.

What about your shield?  Is it a big, thick, formidable one, or a small, thin weak one? 

Good news: you can strengthen your shield of faith.    

Is your armor in good shape?
  • Every time you pray, you are exercising faith.  If you didn't believe that God hears and answers prayer, you would not bother to pray!
  • When you claim and/or speak one of God's promises over your life or the life of someone you know, you are exercising faith in the promises of God.  When he answers, your faith grows and is strengthened.
  • When you obey the commandments of God, you are practicing faith in his word.
  • When you testify about something that you believe God is going to do for you, even though you have not seen it happen yet, you are exercising faith.

The shield protects every part of the body by deflecting or blocking attacks.  Likewise, your faith will protect every aspect of your life, if it is strong enough.

Ephesians 6:17 - And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:

Are you wearing your helmet?  Are you convinced of having salvation and the blessings of God in the next life?  The assurance of an eternity spent with God can strengthen hope and resolve which can aid you in the fight against evil.

The sword makes another reference to the word of God.  When Jesus fought with Satan during the wilderness temptation, what did he use to defeat him?  That's right – the word of God.  The same word that is available to you right now.  You should have some of that word hidden in your heart so you can use it on command when temptations and afflictions arise, just as Jesus did.

Are there other things that will help us stand in the day of temptation? Most assuredly!

1 Corinthians 10:13 - There has no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted above that you are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that you may be able to bear it.

Here is an exceedingly great promise from God that we can use for our benefit.  God has provided an escape route for us, in each and every temptation that the enemy throws our way.  We must train ourselves to look for that escape hatch.   

For instance, let's suppose that you have a problem with envy.  Anytime you see someone with something wonderful, you want it for yourself.   Your desire is so great, that you are angry at the other person's happiness.

What ways of escape might be open to you, as you fight this temptation/sin?

First off, you could use the sword of the Spirit to knock down the bullet of envy by quoting Luke 12:15 to yourself:

Luke 12:15 – And he [Jesus] said to them, Take heed and beware of covetousness; for a man's life consists not in the abundance of the things which he possesses. 

That would stop your envy quickly, wouldn't it?  During that moment when envy is pushed back, you could begin to list the things in your life that you are thankful for.  As you begin to dwell on how good God has been to you now, and the wonderful things that will be yours in eternity, envy will have to leave.  So in this case, thankfulness would be an escape hatch against envy.

Another idea would be to begin to worship God, the giver of all good and perfect gifts.  As we enter into his presence through worship, no evil can follow; envy will depart from us when we are in God's throne room.  Remember David and King Saul?  When the evil spirit came to torment the king, David would play songs of praise on his harp, and the demon would leave.  Why was that?  Because God inhabits our praise, and the demon could not stay in God's presence.

Perhaps a third idea would be to call a spiritual friend.  Let them know you are having an attack, and you need some support.  The two of you could talk until your temptation passes.

So stop and think for a moment – what temptations/sins are the most difficult for you to battle against?  What scriptures could you use to deflect an attack?  How could you use your faith to block an attack?  What possible escape hatches can you find?  I encourage you to prepare now, before the next attack comes!

Of course, the ultimate source of power that God has given to every Christian is his Holy Spirit.  It was the Holy Spirit that transformed the cowering, fearful disciples into mighty, fearless witnesses for God.

In Matthew 26, we found Peter running away in fear and denying Jesus.  Yet, at the end of his life he was willingly crucified for his faith in Christ.  Foxes' Book of Martyrs tells us that Peter did not think himself worthy to die in the same manner as Jesus, so he requested to be crucified upside down. Can you imagine that?   

Through the power of the Holy Spirit Peter lived a holy life, won people to Christ, performed miracles, refuted false teaching, wrote two books of the New Testament, brought the Gentiles into the church, and many other things.

It was the Holy Spirit who equipped him to carry out the divine mission that God had appointed for him.  The Holy Spirit is still available to believer today:

Acts 2:38-39 - Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.  For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.   

His mission has not changed. He is here on earth, willing to baptize and equip any follower of Jesus with the power needed to stand in the time of temptation,  and to fulfill the unique destiny that God has appointed for each one of us. 

Why not spend some time in prayer this week, asking Jesus if you need more of the Holy Spirit in your life?  If you do, be open to a move of God in your life.

Let me offer you some encouragement:

You are not helpless and alone in the fight against temptation and evil.  Far from it!  God has given you spiritual armor to aid in your battle.  He has given you his word; the same word Jesus used to defeat Satan during His temptation.  And He has given you (or is willing even now to give you) a new infilling of his Holy Spirit. 

So don't live your life discouraged.  Live in victory by using the power and skills that God has given to you.

Let me offer you some relief:

Have you ever wondered whether or not you would be strong enough to be a martyr for Christ?  I can answer that for you. 

If you were to depend on your own power and determination, you would fail just as Peter did on that Passover night so long ago.  Your flesh does not have the power to be a martyr.

But here is the relief – you don't have to depend on your own power!  If you are full of the Holy Spirit he would empower you to be victorious in all your spiritual struggles.  Through Him, you would certainly be able to withstand evil, even to the point of death.   

Let me offer you some strength:

God has created you to be victorious in the face of evil.  He does not want you to be cowering and fearful.  He will provide you with the strength necessary to be faithful to him until he returns or calls you home.

Isaiah 41:10 - Fear not; for I am with you: be not dismayed; for I am your God: I will strengthen you; yea, I will help you; yea, I will uphold you with the right hand of my righteousness.

Immediately after the Passover, Jesus institutes the Lord's Supper, or what we commonly call communion.  You may also hear it referred to as the Eucharist or the Holy Eucharist.  These terms all refer to the same thing – the sacrament or ceremony of commemorating the death of Christ by using bread and wine as the appointed emblems of the communion.   

Communion is considered a sacrament by all Christians.  (A sacrament is a solemn religious ordinance given by Christ, the head of the church, to be observed by his followers.) 

Protestants believe there are two sacraments – communion and baptism. 

Catholics believe there are seven – communion, baptism, confirmation, penance, anointing of the sick, matrimony and holy orders.

Although all Christians believe in the sacrament of communion, different groups view it in vastly different ways.  As a result, communion has become a source of division in the world wide body of Christ.  This lesson is written from the Protestant point of view, however, we will mention some opposing beliefs at the end of this lesson.

But for now, let's turn to scripture.  The sacrament of communion is recorded here in Matthew, as well as in Mark 14:22-26 and Luke 22:15-20.  It is also referenced by Paul in 1 Corinthians 11:23-25.  We will be referencing all of these scriptures in this lesson, so you might want to take a few minutes to read them.

Before we dig in to each aspect of the sacrament, let's examine the overall view of what is happening here.  Jesus was creating a remembrance of our redemption/salvation. 

Picture this event as a moment frozen in time.   Up until this very moment, God's people have lived under the Old Covenant or the Law.  They have observed the feast of Passover, a sacrament of the law which was a shadow or picture of the redemption that was to come by the Messiah. 

In less than 24 hours, Jesus would end (fulfill) the Old Covenant by sacrificing himself for the sins of the world. 

In doing so, he ushers in the New Covenant, the kingdom of heaven, the age of grace.  The New Covenant requires a new sacrament – and so Jesus conducts the very first communion service with his disciples, only minutes after observing the final Passover.  

Consider how astounding this truly is – scripture has given us a snapshot of the exact moment of the transition between the old and the new sacraments. 

Within hours of the time the 'snapshot' of this event took place, another event occurred.  It is also recorded in Holy Scripture.  It too, is a snapshot forever frozen in time – the most stunning, mind blowing, epic event that has ever taken place in the history of the world – the sacrifice of Jesus Christ!

It is this extraordinary event that we commemorate as we observe the sacrament of communion.   Communion should never be approached with a casual air or indifferent attitude.  It is not just an empty ritual in remembrance of an event long past.  

It is the impartation of life to every believer in Jesus Christ, in every generation.  So let's take a closer look at the scriptures.  It is my hope that you will be never look at communion the same way after this study.     

Matthew 26:26 – Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, "Take, eat; this is my body."

First, we see that Jesus 'took bread'.  In other words, he picked up some of the bread that was already at hand.  Remember, this event is happening at the close of the Passover meal.  As we mentioned last time, Passover was immediately followed by the seven day feast of unleavened bread.  During that time, the Jews completely removed all traces of leaven from their homes and even businesses.  Therefore, there can be no doubt that the bread used in the first communion was unleavened bread.  It would have been a thin cake, easily broken and distributed.

The bread itself was ordinary, readily available, unleavened bread.  There was nothing particularly special about it.  However, because Jesus 'took it' or set it apart for holy purposes, it became holy.

This is how we should view the bread in our present day sacrament of communion.  Although it may come from a common, every day source, it has been taken or set apart for a holy purpose.  We should always make sure that we respect the communion elements.

In the scriptures, leaven often represents sin.  The first communion bread did not contain any leaven; therefore it symbolically contained no sin or was sinless.  This makes it a good comparison to Jesus since he truly was sinless.  This is not the first time Jesus has used this comparison: 

John 6:35 - And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life.

Jesus is the bread of life.  Just as physical bread is needed for life and nourishment of the flesh, the sacrifice of Christ's body is needed for life and nourishment of the soul. 

So we find that Jesus makes a comparison between himself and the bread.  The bread is not really his body; Jesus is speaking symbolically.  He has done this many times in the past.  For instance, he calls himself the 'vine' in John 15:1, and the 'door' in John 10:7. But he was never really a literal, physical vine or door.  Jesus was comparing himself to these items, just as he compared himself to the communion bread.

Jesus blesses the bread.  The word translated 'blessing' has also been translated as 'give thanks' in other scriptures (see John 6:11).  During the blessing of the elements, Jesus acknowledges God as the author of every good and perfect gift.  While the Jews were accustomed to give thanks to God for all earthly food, this was different.  This thanksgiving was to center on the spiritual aspect of the elements – the atonement of Christ which resulted in the eternal salvation of the human race.

Since the bread represented his body, the breaking of the bread represented the sufferings of Jesus that were about to take place – his body was wounded, pierced, bruised and finally broken by death.  Why?  What was the purpose? 

It was to make atonement for our sins; to purchase our redemption with his priceless, sinless blood: 

1 Corinthians 11:24 - And when he [Jesus] had given thanks, he broke it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me. 

The suffering and sacrifice of Jesus are the exact things that Jesus is instructing us to vividly remember during the communion service:

Luke 22:19 - This is my body, which is given for you.  Do this in remembrance of me.

As we come into God's presence during communion and stop to consider what Jesus went through during the crucifixion, our hearts should be stirred.  As we look at the bread and juice, we are reminded that he was whipped, mocked, abandoned, pierced with nails, crowned with thorns and hung up to die a painful humiliating death. Worst of all, He experienced spiritual separation from God.  As he assumed all of our sin upon himself, He was cut off from the Father. 

Not only do we stop to consider the suffering of Christ, we need to stop and consider the cause of that suffering – us.  It was your sin and my sin that put Jesus up on that cross.  Communion is a time to reflect how much our sin actually cost the Son of God.

So, by participating in communion, we publicly acknowledge our sense of guilt and need of a savior.   We also publicly declare our trust in Jesus and our love for him, as well as or desire to be with him always.  Consideration of these vital truths will increase our faith, lift our hope, enlarge our love, and strengthen us against sin.   The rite of communion is not just an empty ritual.  It brings spiritual life to you and me.  

Have you noticed that Satan loves to constantly remind us of our sin?  He desires to render us ineffective for Christ by getting us to dwell on the shame and guilt of our failures. 

But this spell is broken when we enter into communion.  Yes, we know we have sinned; but the bread is a clear reminder that our sin has been atoned for.  Our part is to 'take and eat' the bread or to appropriate the sacrifice of Jesus with our faith.

Matthew 26:27-28 – And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, "Drink of it, all of you, for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins."

Jesus instituted the use of two elements in the communion rite.  The second is the cup.  Our physical bodies require both food and drink to be sustained.  Likewise, our spiritual man needs both elements, and both are provided exclusively by the sacrifice of Jesus. 

The wine or juice represent the blood of Jesus and are referred to as the cup.

What do the scriptures teach us about blood?

For one thing, they tell us that the life of every living thing is in its blood:

Deuteronomy 12:23 - Only be sure that you eat not the blood: for the blood is the life; and you may not eat the life with the flesh.  

It also tells us that blood is required for the remission of sin:

Leviticus 17:11 - For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that makes an atonement for the soul.

Hebrews 9:22 – Indeed, under the law almost everything is purified with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins.

This was clearly evident under the Law/Old Covenant, which was ratified when Moses literally sprinkled the blood of an animal on the Israelites:

Exodus 24:8 - And Moses took the blood, and sprinkled it on the people, and said, Behold the blood of the covenant, which the LORD has made with you concerning all these words.

Under the Law, only those of Israel could obtain forgiveness through sacrifice.  All Gentiles were excluded. 

Nearly every sacrifice required blood to be shed and sprinkled on the altar and once a year, the high priest had to sprinkle blood on the Mercy Seat within the Holy of Holies to cover the sins of Israel for another year.  This was done year, after year, after year, because the blood of animals could not provide permanent restitution for sin.

The Old Covenant was a shadow of what would take place in the New Covenant, when Jesus would shed his perfect blood for the permanent atonement of sin:

Hebrews 9:12-14 -  Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.  For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of a heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies to the purifying of the flesh:  How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?

Keeping in mind that there is no remission of sin without blood, notice the emphasis placed upon the cup by Jesus.  While he simply told them to eat the bread, he expressly states that ALL are to drink of the cup. Thus, all believers in all ages whether Jew or Gentile, are commanded to drink.  This is because the cup represents the very essence of our redemption – the blood of Christ poured out for the remission of our sin.  The blood/cup is what actually ratifies the New Covenant.  Without it we have nothing. 

So, we see that communion is a wonderful and glorious expression of grace – the undeserved favor of God – upon our lives and immortal souls!  We bring nothing to the new covenant except our needs – the need for forgiveness, the need for healing, the need for rescue, the need for love, the need for righteousness, etc.  For his part, God brings to the New Covenant everything that you and I have need of, PLUS benefits we never imagined in our wildest dreams!  And the factor that ratified this covenant between God and Man was the blood of Jesus. 

It should be noted that partaking of communion does not save your soul.  Each one of us must expressly apply the blood of Jesus to our own spiritual lives/hearts, because that is the way appointed by God for the pardon of our sin.  Communion symbolizes the atonement that has already been applied to our lives.

Matthew 26:29 – "I tell you I will not drink again of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom."

Two important things are indicated here.  One, Jesus is going to die.  Therefore, he will not be on earth to lead the communion celebration again.  Obviously, that is not a shock to any of us.  However, for the apostles, these words of Jesus were an immense consolation.  While they were pained by the thought of him dying, Jesus confirms that his death is not a final separation.

This brings up the second point.  One day, you and I and all the other followers of Christ will be reunited together in the kingdom of Heaven.  At that time, we will partake of new wine as we enjoy everlasting communion with our Savior and we celebrate the blessings and triumphs of redemption.  Clearly, communion is not just looking back to what happened thousands of years ago.  It also looks forward to a future where we are in Heaven with Jesus, in the presence of God.  It is a future where we will enjoy a healthy, fulfilling, productive existence – forever!

1 Corinthians 11:26 - For as often as you eat this bread, and drink this cup, you do show the Lord's death till he comes.

How often are we to take communion?  The scriptures are not specific on this point; you can observe the rite of communion as often as you need it.  There may be times when once every month or so is enough.  But there may be times of chaos in your life where you feel like you need to partake of the Lord's table daily. 

The only thing we can say for sure is that communion is a perpetual ordinance; we are to continuously observe this sacrament until we die, or Jesus returns. 

Matthew 26:30 – And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.

It was customary for the Jews to sing or chant the 113th, 114th, 115th, 116th, 117th and 118th Psalms during the Passover celebration.  The 114th and 118th were typically sung during the observance of the Passover meal, and the rest at the close of the celebration.  There is no reason to believe that Jesus sung anything else on the evening he instituted the rite of communion.

This in itself is very instructive.  You would do well to take a look at these six short Psalms. 

  • The 113th Psalm has 9 verses and focuses on praise to God.  For instance, this is verse 2:

Psalms 113:2 – Blessed be the name of the Lord from this time forth and forevermore!

  • The 115th contains 18 verses and speaks of the glory of God and how he blesses his children.
  • The 116th Psalm has 19 verses and speaks of God's righteousness and mercy; it reflects on our deliverance from death and affliction.
  • The 117th Psalm has 2 verses; it instructs us to praise our God!

Do you see a pattern here? 

Praise and worship are a part of communion.  Not only do we remember our sins and reflect on the price that our Savior paid, but in the end there is great rejoicing and cause for celebration. 

Who rescues us, and showers us with mercy?  Who delivers us from death and affliction?  Who exhibits steadfast love and faithfulness to us?  Is it not Jesus, our Redeemer, our Savior, our King?  How can communion end in anything but great joy, as we realize the new life and freedom we have in Christ?  At the close of communion, we should be bursting with praise and worship to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!  Hallelujah!

Additional Viewpoints:

Previously, we noted that Protestants and Catholics both believe in the sacrament of communion, but practice it in vastly different ways.  One of the major differences is how the two groups view the actual elements. 

Protestants view the bread and juice as exactly that – bread and juice.  They are symbols that represent the body and blood of Christ, nothing more.

Catholics, however, believe in transubstantiation, which is defined as 'a change into another substance'.  Roman Catholics believe that the bread becomes the actual flesh of Jesus and the juice becomes the actual blood of Jesus as the elements are consecrated by the priest, however, the elements still appear as bread and wine.

The Lutherans and Anglicans have yet another point of view.  They believe in consubstantiation.  In this doctrine, the bread is both bread and the body of Christ at the same time.  The juice is both juice and the blood of Christ at the same time.

An in depth study of other viewpoints is outside of the scope of this lesson.  However, there are many other resources that you can access if you wish to do a self study on the different practices of communion. 

Let me offer you some encouragement:

Communion connects us to the past.  As we take a quiet moment of reflection to recall Christ's sacrifice for us, we should be encouraged.  Even though thousands of years have passed, His blood never loses its power or runs dry.  We may stumble and fall in our Christian walk; we may sometimes make poor choices or give into sin.  But forgiveness is still available through the precious blood of Christ.

Let me offer you some relief:

Communion is relevant for the present day.  It reminds us to rejoice in the New Covenant that Jesus has brokered between God and mankind.  Because of that covenant, you and I can walk in victory every day.  So if the chaos of the world is getting you down, look for relief at the communion table.  Spend time praising and worshipping our Redeemer.  Dwell on the mighty promises of the Word.  Soon you will find relief from the uncertainties of daily life.

Let me offer you some strength:

Communion connects us with the future.  It strengthens us with the promises of tomorrow.  It reminds us that one day, Jesus will return for his church.  We will spend eternity with Him in the kingdom of heaven, where he will once again drink of the fruit of the vine with us.  Hallelujah!

 

Matthew 26:1-2 – When Jesus finished all these sayings, he said to his disciples, 'You know that after two days the Passover is coming, and the Son of Man will be delivered up to be crucified.'

Many scholars believe that verses 1-2 of chapter 26 should have been the very last verses of chapter 25.  In chapter 25, Jesus has just finished his teachings regarding the end of the Jewish age and the end of time; he now reminds them that Passover is coming and he will crucified at that time. 

Think of it!  The most crucial event in God's timetable for the ages was about to take place!  Can you imagine the joy of heaven as the time drew near for Jesus to legally defeat Satan and put an end to the power of sin and death?   

Let's give ourselves a quick review of the Passover celebration.  We will take a look at the basics of the first Passover, then look at how the customs changed after their liberation from Egypt.

God instituted this celebration as He freed the Israelites from slavery in Egypt.  You can find the original instructions for Passover in Exodus 12:3-20, Leviticus 23:5-8 and Numbers 28:16-25.

On the 10th day of Nisan, each household was to select a male lamb that was without blemish.  They kept this lamb separated until the 14th of Nisan (or Abib).  At that time the head of each household would kill the lamb sometime in the afternoon, before the sun was fully set.  

The blood of this lamb was sprinkled on the top and both sides of the door frame of each entrance/exit to their house.  When the death angel of the Lord saw the blood on the door, he would 'pass over' that house.  However, in houses where the blood was absent (Egyptian households), each and every firstborn male was mysteriously killed that night.

Blood was put on the top and sides of the door frame.

The lamb was eaten the same day it was sacrificed, after being roasted.  It could not be boiled, fried, stewed, cooked in an Instant Pot or eaten raw.  It HAD to be roasted.  In order to be roasted, it was thrust through with two spits – on lengthwise and one transversely.  These two spits crossed each other in the area of the forelegs, so that the animal appeared to be crucified.  No bones of the animal were to be broken in this process. 

The lamb was to be eaten with unleavened bread and bitter herbs (salad), while the people were fully clothed and wearing coats and shoes.  This was to show that they were ready to leave Egypt in a hurry.

While the basics of this feast are still retained, some changes have been made.  In later years when the lamb was selected, he actually lived with the family, inside the house, for the 4 day waiting period.  During this time, they often grew attached to the animal.  Because of this, the death of the lamb had a greater impact on the household.

When the 14th came, all lambs were sacrificed at the temple by a priest, at around 3 pm in the afternoon (As opposed to being sacrificed by the head of the house, anytime in the afternoon, at any place).  The blood was sprinkled on the corner of the brazen altar, instead of the door posts. 

The lamb was still to be put on two spits, roasted and eaten on the same day.  Each lamb was designed to feed a group of between 10-20 people.  Families had to join together to meet these requirements.

Passover itself is a single day festival.  However, immediately following it the Jews celebrate the Feast of Unleavened Bread.  During this time, all leaven is removed from their houses for 7 days.  This festival shows that the leaven of sin should be put far from us, after our sins have been forgiven by the blood of Jesus. 

Together, these two festivals give us a picture of Jesus.  Just as the Israelites were enslaved to the Egyptians, we were slaves to sin.  But at the appointed time, Jesus came to earth to be our final sacrifice.  Just like the lamb, he was perfect (sinless).  He allowed himself to be crucified on the cross (the two spits) and he died at 3 pm in the afternoon.  The Jews applied the blood of the lamb to their door posts, and it delivered them from death.  We symbolically apply the blood of Christ to our hearts, which pays for our sin, while imputing the righteousness of Christ to us.  Because of this, we are free from spiritual death which is caused by sin.

Other changes have been made to the Passover celebration throughout the years.  If you are interested in the exact ceremony of Passover, including the four cups of wine, the reciting of various Psalms, the removing/adding of plates, the testimony of the father to his children about what God has done, etc you can look online.  This information is readily available, and since the practice of communion is tied into the Passover, you should know about it.  So take some time and check it out!     

Now that we have had a brief review of Passover, let's return to our text.  Jesus tells his disciples that in just a couple of days, he will be crucified at Passover.  This demonstrates that Jesus was God, because he clearly knew that the time had come for him to be the fulfillment of the Passover celebration.   

John 13:1 - Now before the feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that his hour had come that he should depart out of this world unto the Father...

So, the timing of the death of Jesus was not determined by the Jewish religious leaders or by the political overtones of those days.  The timing of the death of Christ was a fixed, appointed time that was determined by God, before the world began. 

We can easily show that the Jewish religious leaders did not intend to kill Him during the Passover:

Mark 14:1-2 - After two days was the feast of the Passover, and of unleavened bread: and the chief priests and the scribes sought how they might take him by craft, and put him to death.  But they said, Not on the feast day, lest there be an uproar of the people.

Despite what man has planned, God is in control.  God had a definite, appointed time for the sacrifice of the Lamb of God and it happened exactly when God ordained that it would.

Likewise, God has appointed a set time for Jesus to return to earth, when he will take us to be with him and judge the world, as we saw in chapter 25.  

The declaration of Jesus about his coming crucifixion was not only a sign that he was God, it was a comfort to his followers.  When things did not go as expected, they could take comfort in the fact that God was in control. 

What a great lesson for us!  Events of this world may not be unfolding the way you thought they would, in your own personal life or in our country.  But if we are disciples of Jesus, we can take comfort knowing that he sees us, and that we are in the palm of his hands.  Regardless of what happens around us, we can be assured that God is in control.

Matthew 26:3 – Then the chief priests and the elders of the people gathered in the palace of the high priest, whose name was Caiaphas.

Let's review the facts about the high priest and the 'supreme court' of the Jews.

High priest is a title given to the head priest in any generation.  Back when God first instituted the office of high priest, a man held that office until he died, then the title passed to his firstborn son, and to his firstborn son, etc.

Quick question – Who was the first high priest?

Answer – Aaron, brother of Moses (Exodus 28:1).

As you recall, Aaron had four sons – Eleazar, Nadab, Abihu and Ithamar.  When Aaron died, it passed to his eldest son Eleazar.  It continued to be inherited in that family line for approximately 300 years, until it passed to Eli, who was the son of Ithamar, Aaron's fourth son.  It then continued in that branch of the family until the time of King Solomon, who deposed Abiathar (for disloyalty to David) and appointed Zadok (descendant of Eleazar) to the office.  It remained in Eleazar's line until the Babylonian captivity.  After the return of the Jews to Jerusalem, a descendant of Eleazar (Joshua) was once again placed in the office.

Then around 160 BC, when Antiochus Epiphanes ruled in Judea, he sold the office to the highest bidder!  From that time on, it changed hands frequently and was no longer a 'lifetime' position.  In fact, Herod the Great changed the high priest as often as he liked, for any reason that suited his fancy.  Persons who had been removed from that office still retained the title.  That is why more than one high priest is sometimes mentioned, although the office technically belonged to only one man.

Now, by this time the high priest was also the head of the supreme court of Israel, called the Sanhedrin.  This court was originally instituted during the lifetime of Moses (Numbers 11:16-17) and included 70 men, prominent elders and rulers of big families.  Originally, their job was to assist Moses in judging matters between the Jews, but the purpose and power of this council changed over time.

By the time of Christ, it consisted of 24 chief priests, scribes and some elders of the people, who were the heads of the great families.  They had the ultimate ruling authority over the Jews, however, at this all Jews were under the authority of Rome.  This meant that the Sanhedrin could try a person and condemn them to death, but they could not carry out the sentence without the consent of the Roman authorities.

Now the scriptures tell us that some kind of a meeting took place in the 'palace' or court of the high priest's house.  This leads many scholars to believe that it was not an official meeting of the Sanhedrin, because official meetings of that group were held in the hall of Gazith (one of the halls in the court surrounding the temple).  They believe the meeting included some of Sanhedrin, as well as some temple officials and friends of the current/former high priest.

On the other hand, some scholars are convinced that this was a true, official meeting of the Sanhedrin.  Regardless of who is correct, we can be sure that this was a group who were bitterly opposed to Jesus, determined to bring him to shame and death at any cost.

Matthew 26:4-5 – ...and plotted together in order to arrest Jesus by stealth and kill him.  But they said, 'Not during the feast, lest there be an uproar among the people.'

All of the Jews believed Jesus was a distinguished prophet and teacher sent by God.  No doubt, many believed that he was the Messiah.  So any public plot against Jesus by the ruling Jews would probably have backfired on them.  The common Jews would have formed a mob, and rescued Jesus.  Realizing their position, the council gathered together to plan a covert or secret plot to arrest and kill Jesus.  But these men were not in control of the destiny of Jesus!  They could not frustrate the predetermined plans of Almighty God!

So the event that they wished to keep as secret as possible ended up taking place as the most public event of the century! Jews from all across the world has gathered in Jerusalem for the Passover feast.  These same people became witnesses to the most important event ever known to man – the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead! And they took that witness back to every corner of the globe. (It was very important that his resurrection be public, so that in later years, no false religion could cast doubt upon the claims of Christianity). 

Now, this raises important implications for us.  There are people in government positions or people in the court system who think they are in control of the destiny of Christians – but they are just as wrong as the Jewish council.  The bible tells us that Jesus is the head of the church:

Ephesians 1:22 - And has put all things under his [Jesus] feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church,

And he is in control over all things relating to the body of Christ.  Governments believe that they can wipe out or suppress Christianity, but they cannot.  When they persecute the church, it just spreads like wildfire.  Try to snuff it out in one place, and it will pop back up in multiple other places. 

Judges believe that they can rule ruthlessly and unjustly over the people of God, and simply silence them, but they cannot.  Jesus will always provide whatever the church needs in order to bring it to victory.  Our assignment is to trust in Jesus, and follow his battle plan.  If we do, he will put our enemies (and His) to ultimate shame!

Matthew 26:6-7 – Now when Jesus was at Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, a woman came up to him with an alabaster flask of very expensive ointment, and she poured it on his head as he reclined at table.

Matthew has been relating events that took place two days before the Passover.  However, he now inserts an incident that took place six days earlier (John 12:1-2).  Why would he do such a thing?

His purpose is to show the treachery of Judas Iscariot.  In this passage, we will see that Judas is a thief.  He was not a true disciple of Jesus, but a traitor.  The rebuke he received at this dinner several days ago may have been the final catalyst that caused him to betray Christ.

So, we find that six days earlier, Jesus had been invited to supper at the house of Simon the leper.  It is really not possible for Simon to have been a leper at that point, because lepers could not live in the city and certainly nobody would go to their house for a meal.  It is likely that he himself had been cured of leprosy by Jesus, or that one of his relatives was, and the phrase "leper" was adopted as a surname to distinguish him from other men named Simon.

Now remember, at this time people did not sit upright in chairs at mealtime.  They reclined on couches with their heads toward the table and their feet pointing outward.  So as Jesus is eating, this woman arrives with a box of very expensive perfume.  Mark (14:3) and John (12:3) tell us that it was nard or spikenard. 

Spikenard was taken from an herb growing chiefly in the Indies.  It was a liquid obtained from the root or bark of the plant.  It was one of the most desired and precious of all the perfumes.  John tells us that she had a pound, which would equal 12 ounces to in our culture.  This is a rather large quantity of oil and it was very valuable.   

Back in Jesus' day, people loved to anoint themselves with perfumes and ointments.  The most common method was to pour the perfume on the top of your head or hair.  Anywhere you went, people would be able to smell the perfume. So this woman breaks open her jar and without hesitation, she pours it on the head/hair of Jesus.      

The book of John mentions that she also poured some on his feet as well.  This was an uncommon way to use the perfume.  After his feet were wet, she then knelt down and wiped them with her hair.  This was an act of deep humility and it exemplified her love for Jesus.

So when was the last time you loved Jesus extravagantly?  How did you do that?  Do you ever look for opportunities to do it again?    

Matthew 26:8-10 – And when the disciples saw it, they were indignant, saying, "Why this waste?  For this could have been sold for a large sum and given to the poor."  But Jesus, aware of this, said to them, "Why do you trouble this woman? For she has done a beautiful thing to me."

Immediately, someone cast a damper on this act of humility and love by starting to complain.  Nothing can ruin an act of love more quickly than a complaint!  So who was the rotten apple?  You guessed it – Judas!

John 12:4-6 – But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (he who was about to betray him), said, "Why was this ointment not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?"  He said this not because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief and having charge of the moneybag, he used to help himself to what was put into it.

He not only murmurs against this woman and her display of extravagant love for Christ, he implies fault on the part of Jesus as well, for allowing her to treat him in this way.  That's a very bold assumption, don't you think?   

Once Judas begins to gripe and complain, it appears that the other disciples also entered into it.  What a grievous and evil fire was set aflame by the tongue of Judas!  His envy and avarice infected all of his companions.

What a multitude of lessons present themselves in this circumstance!

  • We ought to see this as a kind of warning, not to rashly decide on a matter until we have heard both sides of the story.  The disciples instantly sided with Judas because there was a degree of plausibility in his statement.  However, if they had waited to see what Jesus had to say about the matter, they would have come to a completely different conclusion.  I wonder how embarrassed they were after Jesus responded to their griping and accusations!  The wise person will consider both sides of the issue, before spouting off at the mouth!
  • Thinking of complaining?  Don't do it!  It never helps.  Complaining is one of Satan's favorite fragrances.  Don't draw him to yourself by wallowing in it.  Don't tear others down with it.  Say something encouraging or keep your mouth shut!
  • How dare the disciples judge this woman's act of service to Christ as a 'waste'?  What right did they have to do so?  This woman's perfume was her 'talent'.  Had she kept it hidden away instead of investing it, that would have been a waste.

Instead, she purposely and selflessly rendered a unique gift/service to God; Jesus commends her actions as surely as if he had said 'well done, good and faithful servant'.  In short, we have no right to judge the motivation of a person's heart.  When someone gives a pure expression of love to Christ, it has a value unknown to us; but it is priceless to God.

Matthew 26:11 – "For you always have the poor with you, but you will not always have me."

There are two kinds of opportunities which are available to us as Christians.  The majority of these are constant; they are always around.  For instance, we can always give clothing and shelter to the poor, because they will always be poor among us.  We can always feed the hungry, because there will always be hungry people.  We can always give to the spread of the gospel message, because they are always places that still need to be reached with the good news of Jesus.

But there are also opportunities that are one-time events.  The anointing of Jesus with this costly perfume was one of them.  It was right and good that she gave Jesus this lavish gift, because he would soon be gone and the chance to do this good work would also be gone.  This was her only chance to minister to this need. If we are attentive to the voice of the Holy Spirit, he will show us some of these unique opportunities.

Matthew 26:12-13  –  "In pouring this ointment on my body she has done it to prepare me for burial.  Truly, I say to you, wherever this gospel is proclaimed in the whole world, what she has done will also be told in memory of her."

It is very unlikely that this woman clearly understood that Jesus was going to die shortly; even the disciples did not fully comprehend the fact at that time.  She was motivated by love and gratitude; Jesus used her extravagant gift to call attention to the fact that he was soon going to lay down his life for the benefit of mankind. 

Can we wax poetic for a moment and say that the death of Christ yielded a wonderful or desirable odor because it breathed life and salvation throughout the whole earth? 

After all, when Jesus promises that this woman will be remembered 'wherever the gospel is proclaimed in the whole world', he is indirectly testifying that the gospel will spread way past the borders of the Jewish nation to include the Gentiles as well. That's good news for all of us reading this lesson right now.

Matthew 26:14-15 – Then one of the twelve, whose name was Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, "What will you give me if I deliver him over to you?" and they paid him thirty pieces of silver.

So, as one of Christ's followers is giving him an extravagant gift of love, another one is planning to betray him to his sworn enemies!  Even in Jesus' circle of friends there were both sheep and goats. 

It is true that Jesus gently rebuked his disciples for their grumbling about the gift of spikenard.  But why would a person who receives a gentle rebuke respond with a full blown betrayal?

Despite the fact that Judas had walked with Jesus for three years, witnessed great numbers of miracles and heard godly teaching, Christ was not truly ruling his heart.  He had not been transformed by his time with Jesus.  

So when he is rebuked for complaining about the 'waste' of the perfume, Judas probably felt some shame, which soon transformed into anger.  The true motivation of his heart – greed – had been painfully and publicly exposed.  Think about this:  He was angry and frustrated because he lost the opportunity to steal money that was never even under his control!  

He was probably further agitated by the realization that Jesus was not going to set up an immediate earthly kingdom – he was going to die!  All the dreams that Judas had about being the secretary of the treasury in Jesus' new kingdom went right up in smoke! 

Obviously, lust for money consumed every part of Judas' being.  And anyone who loves money that much has no room for God.

Now remember, this event happened six days before the crucifixion.  So over the next few days, Judas' lust, anger and frustration grew to a point where he was totally consumed.  At some point (during the Passover meal), he allowed Satan to have control of his heart.      

Luke 22:3-5 - Then entered Satan into Judas surnamed Iscariot, being of the number of the twelve.  And he went his way, and conferred with the chief priests and captains, how he might betray him unto them.  And they were glad, and agreed to give him money.

The price that was paid for the betrayal of Jesus is just bewildering.

On one hand, we have Judas, who is consumed by his love for money.  He is more than just greedy.  He has entered into the realm of avarice.  He will eventually trade his immortal soul and eternal life with Jesus for earthly money.  That being the case, we would expect him to ask the religious leaders for an exorbitant sum. 

On the other hand, we have the religious leaders, who are desperately determined to put an end to the life of Jesus.  They have access to vast sums of money (from the temple funds).  Surely, they would pay a handsome price to get what they wanted. 

Yet, we find that the amount paid for the life of Jesus was just thirty coins. 

Was there any significance to this amount?

Under the Law, thirty pieces of silver was the appointed restitution price for a servant/slave who had been gored to death by an animal.  It reflects the lowest value that could be placed on a human life.

Exodus 21:32 – If an ox gores a slave, male or female, the owner shall give to their master thirty shekels of silver, and the ox shall be stoned. 

The only explanation for such a meager sum, was that God had ordained it in times past, and the sum was a fulfillment of prophesy.  

Zechariah 11:12-13 - And I said unto them, If you think it good, give me my price; and if not, forbear. So they weighed for my price thirty pieces of silver.   And the LORD said unto me, Cast it unto the potter: a princely price that I was valued at by them. And I took the thirty pieces of silver, and cast them to the potter in the house of the LORD.

And yet, it is a fitting price, for Jesus was a servant:

Isaiah 42:1 - Behold my servant, whom I uphold; my elect, in whom my soul delights; I have put my spirit upon him: he shall bring forth justice to the Gentiles.   

How could we ever comprehend the depth of the love that Jesus has for us?  Mankind assigns his life the lowest possible value, yet Jesus pays the ultimate price for us – his own blood.

Sadly, our nation is even worse than Judas.  We have assigned a value of zero worth to tens of thousands of unborn children when we stood by and allowed abortion to be an acceptable practice.    

Matthew 26:16 – And from that moment he sought an opportunity to betray him.

Once the bargain was struck, there was no further need to wait until after the Passover.  The religious leaders still did not want to arrest Jesus in front of the crowds, but that shouldn't be a problem now.  As a close associate of Jesus, Judas would know where he was at all times.  It would be easy to call in the temple guards at night, or in a place of secrecy, away from the throngs of people who had descended upon Jerusalem.  Or so they thought!

Matthew 26:17 – Now on the first day of the Unleavened Bread the disciples came to Jesus saying, "Where will you have us prepare for you to eat the Passover?"

As we already discussed, Passover only lasted a single day, but it was immediately followed by the feast of unleavened bread, which lasted seven days.  This feast commemorated the haste and confusion that occurred on the night that the Israelites fled Egypt.  Because of their great haste, they ate bread without leaven (Exodus 13:5-10).

I find it interesting that while Jesus was alive, he perfectly observed every facet of the ceremonial law, even up to the time of his death.  Jesus made no excuses - He celebrated Passover in Jerusalem, as the law specified, despite the threats of the religious leaders.

Soon he would both fulfill and abolish the Law with his death and resurrection! 

Matthew 26:18 – He said, "Go into the city to a certain man and say to him, 'The Teacher says, My time is at hand.  I will keep the Passover at your house with my disciples.'"

Jesus instructs his followers to go and find a specific man, and make arrangements for the Passover meal to be eaten at his house.

No doubt, this man was a follower of Jesus.  This is apparent in the message that Jesus gives him.  In it, he refers to himself as "The Teacher" or "The Master".  This was the title that the disciples commonly used for Jesus. It is possible that this man was a secret disciple, like many others at the time, because they feared persecution from the Jewish leaders (John 12:42).

As Master, Jesus does not ask permission from the man to use his house.  He commands it to be done, knowing that the man will acknowledge his authority.

Do we acknowledge the same authority of Jesus?  If he speaks to us about giving up our material possessions for his use, do we immediately comply, or do we hesitate and complain?  Do we find excuses not to do as he has commanded?    

Notice the message that Jesus gives to the homeowner: My time is at hand.  In other words, Jesus knew that the time of his death was upon him, and he acted accordingly. 

We, however, do not know the time of our death and so (as discussed in chapter 25) we must always be watchful and on guard so that we can be ready for eternity when the time of our death arrives. 

Matthew 26:19 – And the disciples did as Jesus had directed them, and they prepared the Passover.

Have you ever prepared an entire Thanksgiving meal by yourself?  You have to clean and roast the turkey, peel the potatoes, make the cranberry relish and mix the stuffing.  You also have to thicken the drippings for gravy, heat up the corn and make sure to bake the pies.  The tricky part is making sure that it is all done at the same time.   Thanksgiving dinner can be exhausting if you are the cook!

The disciples had a similar situation in this case.  Although the room they had access to was furnished (had tables and couches), they still had to get a lamb, buy or prepare unleavened bread, buy and wash the bitter herbs, make the sauce and get the wine.  The lamb would need to be taken to the temple to be slain; then it had to be skinned, dressed and roasted.  The table had to be set.  And it all had to be ready by sunset.

Matthew 26:20-21 – When it was evening, he reclined at table with the twelve.  And as they were eating, he said, "Truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me."

So the Passover meal followed its normal course of events, until a shocking announcement is made by Jesus. 

First, we notice that Jesus was very much aware of what was going on.  Judas may have fooled his fellow disciples, but Jesus was divinely aware that Judas was his betrayer. 

Jesus had told his disciples for some time that he was going to be betrayed and put to death, but they probably figured it would be the religious leaders who would to this.  It was quite a blow for them to find out that it was a member of their inner group whose treachery would lead to their Master's death. 

However, this revelation did serve a purpose.  When they saw it, it did not take them by surprise.  It was not a blow to their faith.  In fact, it was the opposite – because Jesus had accurately predicted it, the event became a confirmation of their faith in him.

Matthew 26:22 – And they were very sorrowful and began to say to him one after another, "Is it I, Lord?"

The reaction of the 11 was predictable – they were filled with sorrow and grief that Jesus was going to be betrayed.  This exemplified their great love for Jesus.

It probably also troubled them to find out that there was a traitor among them.  They had spent about three years with each other and I'm sure they felt that they knew each other very well.  Now they probably questioned whether or not they could trust anybody. 

But most troubling of all was that they were uncertain who the betrayer was.  Apparently, Judas was not the obvious suspect. He was a hypocrite, but he was well hidden and by all outward appearances, he was a true believer.  This is, perhaps, the scariest detail in this account.

To their credit, the disciples did not start accusing one another.  They did not indignantly assert that it couldn't be them.  Instead, each man was apt to suspect himself of some hidden weakness or sin that could lead to a betrayal of their Master, even though they were not conscious of it. 

This uncertainty surely made each disciple look inward and examine the intents and motivations of his own heart.  Having found nothing, they look to Jesus to confirm that they are clean. (Lord, is it I?)

This is a good lesson for us as well.  Every so often, we would do well to take stock of our motivations.  Are we still serving God with a pure heart?  Or has a touch of pride, a slice of jealousy, or a drop of judgment crept into our hearts and lives?  It is good for us to consult with the Holy Spirit and ask him to reveal any uncleanness in our lives.

It is also possible that some of us have been 'betrayed' by a friend, or family member.  It may even have been someone extremely close to us.  It may have been something that was completely unexpected and caught us totally off guard.  But this example tells us not to be discouraged or to give up hope; Jesus experienced the exact same thing. 

If you are hurting or broken because of a betrayal, Jesus can heal you.  The stripes he took on his back were not just for physical healing, but for spiritual and emotional healing as well.  

Matthew 26:23 – He answered, "He who has dipped his hand in the dish with me will betray me."

What is the dish being discussed here?  In the observance of Passover, the Jews had a thick sauce made of raisins and figs mixed with vinegar and other spices.  It was their view that this mixture represented the clay which their forefathers were compelled to use in making brick.  So the sauce was a reminder of their bitter bondage in Egypt.

Remember, there were 10-20 people in the group who ate the Passover lamb.  So there would have been several small bowls of this sauce on the table where the meal was eaten.

So when Jesus says that his betrayer will 'dip his hand in the dish with me', it indicates that Judas was sitting very close to Jesus during this final Passover meal. 

Which brings up another point.  How could Judas, knowing what he planned to do, come to participate in the sacred Passover feast with the one he planned to betray?  It is truly unbelievable!   

Psalm 41:9 - Yea, my own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, who did eat of my bread, has lifted up his heel against me.

In the eyes of Jewish culture, eating with the one you betrayed made the treachery even more monstrous.

Matthew 26:24 – "The Son of Man goes as it is written of him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed!  It would have been better for that man if he had not been born."

Judas shows a fixed determination to do evil.  He hears the ugly truth of his crime proclaimed by lips of absolute love and truth, and yet he is unmoved.  His intensions are no longer secret or hidden; his sin is exposed for all to see, yet he does not seem to care.  Most people are ashamed and embarrassed when their private sins are publicly broadcast, but not Judas.  He expresses no remorse over the foul deed he is about to do. 

He seems to have no care for his future condition.  Jesus is telling him that his future will be cast in stone, and it will be more horrible than he could imagine, but still Judas stays his course.

We often speak of deathbed confessions, where sinners finally come to terms with their lives and turn to Christ on the threshold of eternity.  This is really the same thing.  Judas is on the threshold of no return.  Jesus throws him one more lifeline in an effort to sway him from his evil decision and save himself.  But he makes no move to grab the life preserver.

If you are reading this, and you have delayed and delayed in doing something that God has called you to do, I urge you to stop right now, and make a change. 

If you have delayed in fully living for Christ (perhaps you still have one foot in the world), I urge you to stop right now and make a change.  It may seem like you have a long life ahead of you, but time has a funny way of disappearing.  You blink and it's gone.  You may be on the threshold of an irreversible decision.  You don't know when you will breathe your final breath.  Commit fully to Christ, today. 

Matthew 26:25 – Judas, who would betray him, answered, "Is it I, Rabbi?"  He said to him, "You have said so."

Did you notice the title by which Judas addresses Jesus? 

All of the other disciples address Jesus as Master (or Lord), while Judas calls him Teacher (Rabbi).  This was probably the one truthful statement that he made – Jesus was NOT his Master or Lord, and in the end, he was unable to address him by that title. 

John gives us many additional details about this incident, so you might want to check that out (See John 13). He tells us that Satan actually entered into the heart of Judas after he ate the bread with sauce.  At that point, Jesus admonishes him to perform his betrayal quickly, and Judas leaves the company at that point.

Thus, Judas did not partake of the bread or cup (the first communion) which was to be a sign or mark of the New Covenant.  We will discuss this topic on our next post.

Let me offer you some encouragement, relief and strength:

The time of Jesus' death was a very scary and perplexing time for the disciples.  They didn't fully understand what was happening.  Things were not working out the way they had anticipated.  There was social unrest as the religious leaders clashed with Jesus and the threat of Roman involvement hung in the air.  Fear and doubt crowded into their minds.  Someone they trusted turned out to be a traitor.  Death and persecution were very real possibilities.

You may be feeling the same way right now.  We are living in some perplexing times.  People are widely divided on many issues, like government, the virus, environmental issues, race, etc.  Everywhere we look there is social unrest. 

Maybe things in your life aren't working out the way you thought they would.  Perhaps fear, doubt, depression or hopelessness are trying to attack you. 

But there is a way to be victorious in the midst of these times.  The disciples found victory by fully committing and trusting in Jesus.  So can you!

1 John 5:4-5 – For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world.  And this is the victory that has overcome the world – our faith.  Who is it that overcomes the world except the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?

Look at what John is saying in this verse.  If you are a child of Almighty God, you are an overcomer!  No matter what comes against you, no matter what the government says, no matter what disease is out there, no matter how divided people are over social issues, you can/will overcome! 

John tells us that the key to overcoming the world is your faith.  So this week, I encourage you to take specific steps to further strengthen your faith. 

Here are some suggestions:

Read the word.  Not just a little; not just a few verses before bed.  Saturate your mind with it. Listen to it on CD or stream it.  Read it on your phone during your break.  Memorize a new passage.  Recite the verses you know each morning or before bed.  Share a scripture with your spouse.  Let the truth of the word fill your heart and mind.  Let it be on your lips as you go throughout your day.

Testify about what God has already done for you.  Sometimes there is an opportunity during church to testify, but many times there is not.  So you need to find a way to testify to your fellow believers.  Call someone on the phone, and let them know what God has done in your life recently.  Post something on social media.  Text your BFF and let them know.  This not only helps build your faith, it builds their faith as well!

Spend time in worship.  No evil can exist in God's presence.  So when you are there, your faith grows and your troubles shrink.  The more you fellowship with God, the more your faith will expand.  Believe in him and trust in him.  Watch him work on your behalf!

 

Matthew 25:31 – When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angles with him, then he will sit on his glorious throne.

We commonly call the last part of this chapter the parable of the sheep and goats, but that is not entirely accurate.  It is obvious that the sheep and goats form only a small illustration in what is actually a description of divine reality.

Jesus was born in a manger and often had no place to 'lay his head'.  In his role as servant, he was despised and rejected by men.  He was condemned by the religious leaders and rulers of his day.  He was beaten, whipped, humiliated, reviled, abused and nailed to the cross.  The people of that day did not understand that Jesus was veiling his true glory as the Son of God, in order to die for our sin.

But when he returns, that veil will be removed and mankind will see him how he truly is.  Jesus will return in a display of his mighty power and great glory.  We will see him as dignified, righteous, powerful, majestic and without equal.  He will return as judge of the earth:

John 5:22 – The Father judges no one, but has given all judgment to the Son.

To him, every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that Jesus is Lord:

Philippians 2:10-11 – So that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

His return will strike the hearts of his enemies with fear and dread; it will fill the hearts of his people with joy and confidence.  As his children, we should be eagerly awaiting and anticipating the glorious return of our Savior, Shepherd, High Priest, Brother, Redeemer, Bridegroom and Friend.

Although he died alone, he will not return to earth that way.  He will be bringing all of the angels with him.  How many angels are there?  A bunch!

Revelation 5:11 – Then I looked and I heard around the throne and the living creatures and the elders, the voice of many angels, numbering myriads of myriads and thousands of thousands,

None of them will want to be left behind, as the glory of Jesus is revealed.  Besides, the angels will be assisting Jesus in his tasks as his attendants and ministers of justice.

Right now, Jesus is sitting at the right hand of the Father, on a throne of grace.

Hebrews 4:16 - Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

But one day, when he returns, he will 'sit on his glorious throne' which is a throne of judgment:

Daniel 7:9-10 - I beheld till the thrones were set in place, and the Ancient of days did sit, whose garment was white as snow, and the hair of his head like the pure wool: his throne was like the fiery flame, and its wheels as burning fire.  A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him: thousand thousands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him: the judgment was set, and the books were opened.

Oh how the tables are turned!  Jesus, who was once arrested and arraigned like a criminal will now sit upon the judicial bench as judge of all!

Matthew 25:32-33 – Before him will be gathered all the nations, and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats.  And he will place the sheep on his right, but the goats on the left.

Before him ALL nations will be gathered.  The disciples were most concerned with what would happen to their own nation, Israel.  They wanted their nation to be delivered from the miseries and oppression they were experiencing.  They wanted God to fulfill his covenant with Abraham, exalt his chosen people and manifest his presence among them, for the whole world to see.

As wonderful as that would be, it is evident that the disciples were bound by their limited thinking.  Although they did not yet understand it, Jesus had extended the benefit of redemption to ALL people.  Jesus planned to gather people of every tribe, tongue and nation to himself, to serve and love him.  So we see that God's plan for the ages was way bigger than anything they had imagined.

Isaiah 49:6 - And he said, It is too small a thing that you should be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved ones of Israel: I will also give you for a light to the Gentiles, that you may be my salvation unto the ends of the earth. 

Now, what do you suppose God has in store for those who love him and look for his appearing?  What does God have prepared for his good and faithful servants? What do you think awaits us in heaven?  I suspect it is also way bigger than anything we have imagined!

So, once the gathering is complete, Jesus will separate the sheep (true believers, Christians, those that serve Christ) from the goats (hypocrites/those that do not believe, sinners, those who reject Christ).

Notice that there is only one criterion for the separation of sheep and goats - your relationship with Jesus.  People will not be separated according to the amount of money they make/possess, or how much education they had, or how beautiful they were, or how much influence they exercised on earth.  All these things will no longer matter.  

The final, eternal division of people rests upon the blood of Christ.  It has either been applied to your life, or it has not. 

The sheep are assigned to be on his right hand, which is the place of honor and dignity.  The goats are assigned to be on his left hand, which is the place of shame and contempt.

Jesus has already alerted his disciples to this separation; we saw it in his parable of the wheat and tares back in Matthew 13, the separation of the good and bad fish (also Matthew 13), or the separation of the wheat from the chaff (Matthew 3).

In the meantime, God has allowed us (true believers) to be mixed with the 'goats' or unbelievers.  Until he separates us out, it is our duty to be a light for Him, to share the gospel message and try to lead the lost to the Good Shepherd. We need to make sure that we are keeping ourselves separate from the sin of the world.  Remember, our labor is not in vain.  One day, Christ will come and bring his rewards with him.

Matthew 25:34 – Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.'

The King is Jesus Christ, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, who is now acting in his capacity as judge (Revelation 17:14).  He pronounces absolution (freedom from guilt, sin or penalty; forgiveness of an offence) on the righteous, who are now at his right hand.

Interestingly, they are described as being blessed by God, rather than redeemed by Christ.  Jesus is reminding us that our salvation proceeded from the undeserved favor of God.  Among the Hebrews, the phrase 'blessed of God' means one who is dear to God or beloved by God.  This expression always points to the great grace of God towards men.

Through this immense and undeserved grace, the righteous will inherit a kingdom prepared specifically for them, before the creation of this world.  Notice that Christ does not invite believers to possess this kingdom as if we had obtained it by our own merits.  Rather, he expressly points out that the kingdom is bestowed upon us because we are heirs though Christ.

This is a matter of great comfort to us as believers.  It motivates us to be patient and to continue in righteousness despite opposition.
  • During those times when we are mocked or afflicted or scorned, we can take comfort knowing that God has prepared a kingdom for us to inherit, before any of this took place.
  • On those days when we are weary, or facing difficulties and struggles, we should remind ourselves that God has a kingdom prepared for us to inherit, as soon as our race is over.
  • When we become discouraged because it looks like the wicked are prospering in everything they do, we should remind ourselves that God has a kingdom prepared for us to inherit; the things of this life will soon pass away.

Anyway you look at it, the kingdom is a sure and certain blessing promised to us by the Father.  We may not have seen or experienced it yet, but it is coming!

Matthew 25:35-36 – 'For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.'

Here, we must be wise Christians who 'rightly divide the word of truth'.  What do I mean by that?  Well, if we just quickly read these two verses, we may be under the false assumption that we can get to heaven through performance of good works or acts of charity like those described.

However, we must measure our interpretation by the rest of the scriptures.  We know that the only way to heaven is through faith in Jesus Christ.

Romans 5:9 – ...being now justified by his [Jesus] blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.

Ephesians 2:8 – For by grace you are saved through faith; and that not of yourselves:  it is the gift of God.

Titus 3:5 – Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us.

So, by trusting in the atoning work of Jesus Christ, we are saved from sin.  Once we are saved, Holy Spirit comes to dwell in our hearts.  He assists us in our Christian walk by making us more and more like Jesus.  One of the main characteristics of God is that He is love.  Love is one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit that begins to grow in our lives.

Galatians 5:22 – But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith...

God is very clear that love is one of the main characteristics of his people.

Ephesians 5:2 – And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us, and has given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet smelling fragrance.

Romans 13:9 - You shall love you neighbor as yourself.

1 Corinthians 13:13 – And now abides faith, hope and love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.

We can go on and on with scriptures that instruct us to exemplify the love of Christ; there are literally dozens more we could look at.  It is very clear that we are to love those around us, as Christ has loved us.

Now, when we accept the blood of Christ as atonement for our sin, and He fills us with his Holy Spirit, we begin to walk in the love of God.  It is this love that prompts us to do works of charity to others, like feeding the hungry, clothing the naked and visiting those in prison.

So we find that it is NOT the works themselves which earn us a place in heaven; the works are simply an outward manifestation of the presence of God within our lives.

If you think about it, this makes sense.  If it required works of charity to enter heaven, then how would poor people make it in?  I am very sure that some of the people who were the recipients of charity will be in heaven even though they had no means to provide for the physical needs of others.

If it required works of charity to enter heaven, then how did the thief on the cross make it in?  He died within hours of trusting in Christ as his savior; he had no means to perform any good works.

The reverse would also hold true.  If it required works of charity to enter heaven, then any wicked person who donated riches to charity would get in.  However, we know that no wicked people will enter the gates of heaven.

This is probably a good place to mention that the acts of charity that Jesus refers to indicate more than just a mere donation of money and more than just a passing impulse.  They imply a sacrifice of time, strength and sympathy.  They require effort and thought.  They are done on purpose, when you could have devoted your resources to yourself.  Thus, along with obedience and the practice of spiritual disciplines, they are a good indication of a life lived for Christ.

Matthew 25:37-39 – Then the righteous will answer him saying, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink?  And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you?  And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?'

It is doubtful that these exact words will be spoken by us as we stand before Jesus.  However, the response in this parable illustrates the profound humility that characterizes the followers of Christ.

They have a deep sense of being unworthy of such commendation.  No doubt, we will believe that our acts of kindness were far short of what they could have been.  No doubt, we will recall times when we failed to do what was right.  As we stand before Jesus and look into his eyes and feel the true depth of his love for us, we will realize that we have no claim to praise or reward.  Everything we did was based in the grace and mercy he extended to us in the first place.

Matthew 25:40 – And the King will answer them, 'Truly I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brother, you did it to me.'

Wow.  Think about the implications of this statement.  God loves every man, woman, girl and boy on this planet.  He is deeply concerned about both their spiritual and physical needs.  Anytime we are faced with those in need, it is as if we were looking at Jesus himself.  We can either assist and honor him, treating him with dignity and love, or we can reject and despise him, casting him aside as worthless.

When we perform acts of kindness to the needy without an expectation of reward, it is the same as doing it for Christ.  While the needy person cannot reward us for our service, our Lord and Savior not only can, but he will.

Proverbs 19:17- He that has pity upon the poor lends unto the LORD; and that which he has given will he pay him again.

It is only by the grace and mercy of God that our sins are forgiven and his love fills our hearts.  Through this grace, we are motivated to serve and help others.  In fact, it is God who gives us the means and the opportunity to help.  As we do, God then rewards us in ways that only He can.  How is it possible that God could be so good to us?  Who can comprehend the wonders of a Savior who sets aside good works for us, just so he can reward us beyond our wildest imaginations? 

Who could love us more than Christ?  In the light of that love, how can we do anything other than reaching out in love to those around us?  How can we not share the gospel with those who are lost?

As our world slips further and further into chaos, I suspect there will be more and more difference between the righteous and the wicked.  There will be more and more opportunities to do service for Christ.  Let's not miss opportunities to minister to Jesus.

Matthew 25:41 – Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.'

Those on the left of Jesus are the wicked.  They have rejected the sacrifice of Jesus; their sin is their own responsibility.  They have chosen the very worst anguish imaginable – eternal separation from God.

2 Thessalonians 1:8-9 - In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ:  Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power.

Take note:  Heaven is a very real place.  So is hell.  Citizenship in heaven is eternal; it never ends.  So is citizenship in hell.  Those who dwell there will receive certain and intense pain and torment.  There is no indication that this punishment is remedial or corrective; it is a punishment that will last forever.

But this was never God's will for anyone.  The place of suffering and torment was designed for Satan and his followers.

Matthew 25:42-43 – 'For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, I was a stranger and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not clothe me, sick and in prison and you did not visit me'.

Here is the opposite case.  These people rejected salvation through Jesus Christ.  Thus, they did not have Holy Spirit indwelling their hearts, assisting in the growth of fruits of righteousness, especially Godly love.

Because the love of Christ is absent in their lives, there are no outward manifestations of the presence of God, like works of charity, righteous living, or obedience to God.  In fact, we could expect them to be hard hearted towards those in need, even turning a blind eye to their suffering.  They look upon the poor through the eyes of their flesh; they do not view the destitute as Christ and they have little or no desire to alleviate their suffering.

Thus their fruits reveal the wickedness that resides within their hearts (Matthew 7:16-19).  And according to Jesus, evil trees are cast into the fire and burned.

They are like the man who had one talent, and buried it instead of using it. 

Matthew 25:44 – 'Then they also will answer, saying, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to you?'

Again, these are probably not literal words that will be spoken by the wicked.  But in their hearts and minds, they will recognize their guilt as Jesus brings charges against them.  Try as they might, there will be no acceptable excuses on that day; the time to change their ways has past.

They resisted the call of the Holy Spirit and they rejected the offer of grace.  There is nothing left to help them.

Matthew 25:45 – Then he will answer them, saying, 'Truly, I say to you, as you did not do it to one of the least of these you did not do it to me.'

By failing to relieve the suffering of people, the wicked show that they have no real love for God.  They clearly do not have Holy Spirit at work in their hearts and lives.  Their actions prove that they are unfit for the kingdom of heaven.

Like the servant who buried his one talent and refused to use it, they will be condemned for neglecting their duty.  However, scripture also points out that they will be also be condemned for their sins of commission (Romans 2:9, Colossians 3:5, Revelation 21:8, etc). 

Matthew 25:46 – And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.

Unlike our court system, the sentence imposed upon the wicked is executed speedily.  There are no reprieves, no appeals, and no escapes. 

Likewise, the righteous will immediately enter into eternal life, and inherit the kingdom of heaven that has been prepared for them.  There, we will be in constant communion with God.  The curse of sin and death has no place there.

We certainly do not know and understand everything about the end of the age.  However, Jesus gives us a lot of understanding in Matthew chapter 25 through the parable of the 10 virgins, the parable of the talents and the description of final judgment (sheep/goats).

So while we don't know everything, some things are certain:

  • We are given talents in life.
  • We are responsible for using those talents.
  • We need to be preparing now for the return of Jesus (or for our own deaths), for we do not know when he will return.
  • At the end of the age, there will be an accounting of what we have done in life.
  • There will be a separation of the righteous and the wicked.
  • The righteous inherit the kingdom, the wicked are sent into punishment.
  • The duration of both these states (blessing and punishment) are exactly the same; they are eternal.

Let me offer you some encouragement:

Find your talents and use them!  What gifts and interests has God placed within you?  Whatever they may be, step out in faith and work with them.  There may be ups and downs, but in the end using your talents will bring glory to God, goodness to mankind and an eternity of reward to you. 

Let me offer you some relief:

The Christian life is best lived one day at a time.  As we walk with the Holy Spirit daily, he will lead us into greater and greater depths of Christ. He will grow spiritual fruit in our lives and fill us with the love of Christ.  He will train us to fight the enemy and endue us with power and wisdom. If you walk with him daily, you will never have to worry about running out of oil. He will always keep you filled and ready for the return of Christ.

Let me offer you some strength:

Where you stand in the Day of Judgment is determined by the life you live right now.  As times become more chaotic and uncertain, we may have a tendency to 'circle the wagons' and keep all of our time, energy and resources for ourselves.  But that is not the correct outlook. 

We need to continue to see our service to the needy as a direct ministry to Jesus himself.  As we trust in him, he will give us provision not only for ourselves, but for others as well.  So be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might!

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