Recognition of Authority

Matthew 8-11

Wait a minute Jesus. What do you mean about the centurion having enough faith that you will heal his servant? He's a gentile! How could he have "faith"? The centurion understands authority, and that is a word that you will notice frequently as you read these few chapters. Even John's imprisonment is because he offends "the authorities".

Some of these passages may bother you about your faith if you have ever asked Jesus for healing for a loved one - or even for yourself. That is what Matthew will continue to help us understand - the message of faith includes imprisonment and even death for John and the cross for Jesus. God is present in all events that bear witness to the good news - which is God is present in all events. God is in control, even if we don't like the outcome. I have seen this in my own life many times.

In 8:28-34 we read about the pigs jumping into the sea. These probably belonged to gentiles, since it was illegal for Jews to have pigs. Not a great way to make friends with the gentiles.

9:6-9:8 You will see more on the authority of Jesus.

In 9:13 when Jesus says "Go and learn what this means 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice'" he is telling his disciples that the Pharisees don't know their own scriptures. He is saying check out Proverbs 21:3 and Hosea 6:6.

In 9:14 I liked that Jesus doesn't emphasize the importance of fasting. This has always been one of the hardest disciplines for me. I will carry Jesus with me wherever I go if it means I don't have to fast. In verse 15 I do wonder sometimes if there will come a time when Jesus is taken away from me. I want to be strong enough to hold on to Him no matter what is going on around me.

In 9:18 there is another resurrection. This time it is for the daughter of the leader of the synagogue. If I remember correctly, the leaders of the synagogues become Jesus' bitter enemies. I wonder where this leader was when everyone else starts crying "crucify him".

The disciples are given authority in 10:1. And this is not to bring about "peace on earth". Verse 10:34 kind of changes how we look at those cute Christmas cards that announce "Peace on Earth". I can't see a Christmas tree decorated with swords, can you? It might change how we look at the whole Christmas season.

In chapter 11 we see John wavering a bit about his faith. The blind see, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, but John is stuck in prison. Jesus' answer tells "the crowds" that are concerned, just wait until you see what happens to me. 11:19 "Yet wisdom is vindicated by her deeds". That is an interesting statement to look into a little further.

Are you ready to sign up to be a true disciple? Jesus says in 11:30 "My yoke is easy and my burden is light...for I am gentle and humble...and you will find rest". Do you hear the invitation?

My question is how does that tie into swords? That is not the kind of rest I was looking forward to. Not yet.