Beginning a systematic look at the words of Jesus in context, we lay some general background. The events of his birth and early childhood mark his life as something special. In the first chapter of Matthew, we find:
- The Genealogy of Jesus Christ
- The Birth of Jesus Christ
Both Luke and Matthew include various details of his birth that brings both good and troubling news, depending on personal perspectives of a new kingdom that is now beginning.
- Shepherds and angels.
- The Visit of the Wise Men
- The Flight to Egypt
- Herod Kills the Children
- The Return to Nazareth
Focusing on the events found in Matthew’s gospel, we begin to try to list out commands of Christ. Some are targeted to only a person or a narrow purpose. Some are aimed at facing down the m most difficult temptations and maintaining an unshakable faith. Others are an open call to all people, regardless of being a believer our not.
As Jesus enters his ministry, he assures a humble John that his baptism will fulfill righteousness. Jesus was in no need of repentance, or in need oof having sins forgiven. In being baptized, Jesus did two things. He identified with those who would follow him, and he was commissioned on his journey to the cross.
Speaking to John’s reluctance of baptizing Jesus. The command is
1. Fulfill all righteousness.
15 But Jesus answered him,
“Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.”
Then he consented.
Continuing on to Matthew 4,the temptation of Jesus is depicted. Through the ordeal comes a series of commands as Jesus responds to temptation. Commands that both honor God, and send Satan fleeing.
2. Live by God’s word (not food)
3. Don’t test God.
4. Worship and serve God alone. (implies power over Satan, to send him fleeing)
4 But he answered,
“It is written, “‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.'”
7 Jesus said to him,
“Again it is written, ‘You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.'”
10 Then Jesus said to him,
“Be gone, Satan! For it is written, “‘You shall worship the Lord your God and him only shall you serve.'”
In standing on the word of God, as written in scripture, we can consider these words of Jesus as commands for facing hard times. Use the example of Jesus to prefer spiritual matters over physical comforts and needs. Don’t waver in doing things in the way God has set, instead of trying to get a little glory for ourselves. In worshipping him alone, we can not only resist temptation of great power, but Satan flees.
As Jesus Begins His Ministry, he issues a universal command. The time and opportunity is now. The command isn’t limited or restricted. It’s for all unbelievers, and it’s not even limited to only a certain group. In fact, even if there are believers, faithful ones, there is always a need to repent and turn from the sins of human nature.
5. Repent.
Realize your sin carries an eternal weight, and holds us in condemnation. Grace and mercy is ours through Jesus. Respond to the call of the Holy Spirit and repent.
17 From that time Jesus began to preach, saying,
“Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”
Jesus calls the first disciples, and another command is given. Though repentence is the first call, for those who are to be his disciples, his students, a deeper command is given.
6. Follow me. (to become fishers of men).
19 And he said to them,
“Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.”
There is one important element in responding to any command or teaching of Jesus. The Holy Spirit is the one who calls and empowers the transformation needed to keep the commands. Don’t worry, he is always calling. All you have to do is respond to his call. Repent. The Holy Spirit will help with all the rest of the heart changes and transformation needed.
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Thanks to the recorded comments from J Vernon McGee. His ministry and daily bible study lives on through Through the Bible Ministries (ttb.org)
Scriptures in the show notes and episode are quoted from the King James Version, except when read by Keith, then it’s the NASB.
Scripture quotations are from The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.”
“Scripture taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®,
Copyright © 1960,1962,1963,1968,1971,1972,1973,1975,1977,1995
by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.”
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