Sacrifice now, so they won't burn later

The book of Matthew was written by a Jew to the Jews. The evidence is astounding as Matthew continually speaks of Christ fulfulling Old Testament scripture. In contrast to John 4 (where Jesus' first contact is with a Samaritan woman), Matthew records none of that occurance. Matthew, through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, smartly avoids what he knows will be a touchy subject for his Jewish readers. Instead he merely states that Jesus went preaching saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." (Matt 4:17)



Two lessons are clear: (1) That we must know our audience and speak accordingly, whether by language or level of communication, and (2) That we don't force down someones throat something they simple are not ready for.



Matthew continually uses "...so that the scriptures would be fulfilled" to indicate to the Jews (the established religion of that day) that this was indeed the Messiah that the prophets spoke of.



We also live, especially in Grand Rapids, in a culture that is very much dominated by "religious" history and heritage. But that religion has many divisions with a wide diversity of beliefs and opinions. Add to that a half-dozen very well-known and esteemed Christan colleges and the debates and emotions over those various beliefs can have some heated and intense debate. That abuse has happened in these churches and in these denominations is undeniable.



The question is raised: Can we, like Jesus, go to these churches, these established "religions of the day" and stand up and say, "Repent, for the kingdom of God is at hand."



It's a tough question, that causes more questions than satisfying answers. Ultimately, we wait on our Lord and believe His promise that "Vengence in mine. I will repay."



But I also don't believe that we should ignore justice in our time. We are called, especially elders, to protect the flock. Matthew 18 is the pattern we follow.



Next we find that Jesus gathers his band of brothers. He takes to himself his disciples, those twelve men that Jesus would confide his true nature, calling and reason for ever being there. These men would love him, betray him, frustrate him and fall asleep on him in his hour of most need. But Jesus knows this already and doesn't hesitate to keep these fallible men at his side.



We learn from this that Jesus had support. He had men that were on the same mission, they supported each other and offered the God-man companionship. There is no weakness in bringing the same mission with fellow companions that have the same God-centered goal in mind.



Finally, at the end of Matthew 4, Jesus becomes a rock star. He goes from town to town, preaching, teaching, and healing. People come in droves to see this man that can heal anything. Thousands of people follow him around like groupies at a concert. He has engaged himself into his culture. Yes, he preaches and teaches, but he's also healing too. Yes, he's healing and preforming miracles but he's also preaching and teaching.



We see from this that the Gospel isn't just about condemning men for their sin. It is about giving, presenting ourselves "a living sacrifice." Everyone has heard this saying: No one will care how much you know, unless they know how much you care.



Christ presented himself as the ultimate sacrifice and gave up far more than any of us will ever have to give. How involved in our own selves are we that we can't see the need of our neighbor, co-worker, fellow student, or family member to help in some way?



This led to a discussion on church unity. But I think that will lead to different blog.