Matthew 11:1-19

Passage Lookup

On sports teams, there are various roles and it’s the same on God’s team as we fulfill our role with the common purpose of winning souls for Christ. John the Baptist’s role in history was to be God’s messenger who prepared the way to a new Kingdom of grace in which Christ fulfills.

God has a role for all of us to play and fit into His plan. Today, I’m praying for my  role on my church’s technical/media team. I’m praying for my work on this site  as I gather research material and post some thoughts; that it may develop into  a place people can come to for personal Bible study or to gather ideas and material  for small group discussion.

List any videos you are reminded of as you read this passage. Here is a link to one for this reading: How Great is Our God – Chris Tomlin.  My hope is that you will be moved by this video and that it inspires you as you spend this day with God. Understand that  God has given us a common purpose as believers. Therefore a bond or chemistry  develops and a group working for a common purpose achieves results that matter.

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Matthew 11-12 questions

the Gospel of Matthew

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The questions below are to be used to provide fuel for your thoughts as you study each of the blocks of readings.

Matthew 11:1-19 Passage Lookup

What is the role of John the Baptist in history (See Malachi 3:1; 4:5-6)? How do you fit into God’s plan?

Matthew 11:20-30

What kinds of yokes have the Pharisees been imposing on the people? What claims does Jesus make about his yoke? In what ways has your soul been relieved?

Matthew 12:1-14 Passage Lookup

What is the problem here? In what areas do you have tendencies to be legally correct, but far from God in attitude?

Matthew 12:14-21

How far has the Pharisees’ antagonism gone? Why does Jesus forbid the people to witness to his powers? What qualities characterize Jesus?

Matthew 12:22-37

The Pharisees said that Jesus heals through the power of the prince of demons. What is the logical rebuttal offered by Jesus? What does Jesus teach about words and actions?

Matthew 12:38-50

What kind of sign were they seeking (See Matthew 16:1)? What is the danger of preaching moral order without Jesus Christ?

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Matthew 10:34-42

Franklin and Billy Graham, in Cleveland Stadiu...
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Passage Lookup

Billy Graham was quoted once to say, “Comfort and prosperity have never enriched the world as much as adversity has”.  Those that face adversity can be of good cheer because the hard times prepare one with the advantage of lessons learned that can lead to spectacular achievement in the future.

In Chapter 10 of Matthew, we read about Jesus giving instructions and preparing the Twelve Disciples. To be a part of God’s team, it requires some discomfort at times but there are huge eternal dividends.  Today, I’m praying that I see myself as a valuable part of God’s team; ready to give up a little comfort to do my part in His overall plan.

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Matthew 10:24-33

Passage Lookup

The major strategy being taught in this passage is to be prepared for the worst but believe that God will help provide for the best. Christ foretold of troubles but be encouraged because we are not to be afraid of those who kill the body but not the soul.

A point my Pastor Steve Ramsdell made in a sermon is that God is big enough to be there when we need Him most. Christ said a helper will be sent  to be with us forever. We can count on God to help if afraid, discouraged, or tempted. Here is a link to my church’s podcast player for inspirational sermons anytime or any place: Sermon Podcast.

We can conquer trepidation by knowing that the soul can never be destroyed and we are never alone but with God who is more powerful than we can phantom. Pray today for the courage to conquer any fears. Listen and believe Jesus who is the voice of truth.

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Matthew 10:16-23

Passage Lookup

Holy Spirit painting

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Jesus gave the disciples some instructions about how to handle those that seek to ruin and silence Him. He told them to be shrewd, on guard, stand firm, and let the Holy Spirit guide them in what they say and do.

The Holy Spirit is wiser than anyone. In dealing with any challenge, ask God for direction to make wise choices, for protection against enemies, and to stay out of traps.

Please receive this Word from God today and list any videos you are reminded of as you read this passage. Here is a link to one for this reading: Word of God Speak – Mercy Me.  My hope is that it inspires you as you spend this day with God.

I’m thinking about my day ahead. I’m praying that the Word of God and the Holy Spirit speaks deep in my heart. Today, I’m asking for direction to make wise choices and for protection against any traps the enemy may set.

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