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Scripture reading – Matthew 11
Today’s Scripture reading, Matthew 11, reminds us we are amid the Synoptic Gospels. The Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke are essentially a synopsis or summary of the life of Christ (His person, life, ministry, and resurrection).
Though similar, I suggest the difference in the Synoptic Gospels is the emphasis of each author. Matthew presents Christ as the Son of David and the rightful heir to the throne of Israel. Mark depicts Christ as the Servant of the LORD, and Luke’s Gospel presents Jesus Christ as the Son of Man.
Together, the Synoptic Gospels are in perfect harmony. Lastly, the Gospel of John introduces Jesus Christ as the Son of God, the WORD made flesh (John 1:14), the “Only Begotten Son” (John 3:16).
Matthew 11
A Discourse Concerning John the Baptist and His Prophetic Ministry (Matthew 1:1-15; Luke 7:18-28)
Coming to Matthew 11, Jesus commanded His disciples to depart “and teach and preach” in the cities and villages of Galilee (Matthew 11:1). Jesus continued alone, and great crowds followed Him. Many listened to Him teach, witnessed His miracles, and wondered: Is Jesus the long-awaited Messiah? Would He deliver Israel from Roman occupation and restore the nation to her glory? Even John the Baptist, imprisoned by Herod, questioned and “sent two of his disciples, who asked, “Art thou he that should come, or do we look for another? (Matthew 11:2-3)
A Wicked, Unbelieving Generation (Matthew 11:16-24)
Blessed like no other region in all history, the cities and villages of Galilee were privileged to have Christ living among them. Though they heard Jesus teach and witnessed miracles of healing that no man could do apart from God’s power, many still rejected Him.
Like discontented children (Matthew 11:16-17), they were never satisfied and were harsh in their criticisms of John the Baptist for not eating and drinking as they did (Matthew 11:18). Yet, those same critics condemned Jesus. They said that He was “gluttonous…a winebibber…[and] a friend of publican and sinners” (Matthew 11:19).
Jesus then began to condemn the cities and villages of Galilee “wherein most of his mighty works were done, because they repented not” (Matthew 11:20). They had benefited from His presence and ministry. However, many lacked faith (Matthew 11:20-24).
Comparing Chorazin and Bethsaida to Tyre and Sidon (two Phoenician cities of ancient days known for their wickedness), Jesus warned, “I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the day of judgment, than for you” (Matthew 11:22). Even Capernaum did not escape Jesus’ admonishment. He likened that city to the wickedness of Sodom and warned, “It shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom in the day of judgment, than for thee” (Matthew 11:24).
“Unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall much be required” (Luke 12:48) was the spiritual principle Jesus taught when He compared Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum with ancient cities known for their notorious wickedness. Jesus prophesied that on the day of God’s judgment, Tyre, Sidon, and Sodom and Gomorrah would fare better than self-righteous Capernaum (Matthew 11:21-24).
Pause and Ponder: Imagine God’s judgment on our generation. We have multiple copies of Scripture in our homes and unlimited resources on our electronic devices. We can hear the Word of God preached and taught on various platforms. Will our generation not deserve God’s judgment as much as the citizens of Capernaum who witnessed Jesus’ miracles and listened as He taught?
Closing thoughts (Matthew 11:25-30)
The Pharisees and scribes oppressed the people with harsh, burdensome traditions and interpretations of the Law. Yet, Jesus’ teachings were simple and good (Matthew 11:25-27).
Matthew 11 concluded with an invitation to those bearing the weight of sin to come to Christ by faith and obtain that which works can never attain (Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:5). Jesus’ invitation was a simple, threefold command.
Matthew 11:28–30 – 28Come [follow] unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden [physically and spiritually weary], and I will give you rest. 29Take [take up] my yoke upon you [i.e., be my disciple], and learn of me [submit; obey]; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. 30For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
What a contrast to the harsh, demanding legalists of Jesus’ day. He came to His people “meek and lowly in heart” and promised rest (Matthew 11:29-30). Submissive followers of Christ do not find the Laws and Commandments of the LORD burdensome and legalistic! Sincere believers love, obey, and see “His commandments are not grievous” (1 John 5:2-3). They find rest for their souls in His eternal Truth.
Copyright © 2024 – Travis D. Smith
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