Matthew 26

Matthew 26 is definitely a rich chapter.  It leads us from the plot to kill Jesus to his arrest.  However, it is the in between in this chapter that speaks to me.

A few points to ponder:

1.Mary's anointing of Jesus.

a.Vs. 7 says it was a "very" expensive perfume.  Basically it was not a bottle of Old Spice (no offense to the Old Spice users) that was not being used and so she could afford to dump it, but rather it was a precious ointment that was to be valued.  Our value is not in the material that we obtain in life, but rather our value is in how we live our life.  If we allow ourselves to be poured out on what really matters in life, we will see ourselves transformed into his image.  The perfume had no form until it was poured out and it was only at that point that it took on the shape of the object upon which it was poured, Jesus Christ.
b.It is through selflessness and sacrifice that promotion comes.  If we seek promotion, as Judas did, we will be abased, but if we can become selfless and we are willing to sacrifice …   Jesus himself proclaimed that Mary would be remembered for this act and it would server as a memorial of her.
c.This act of worship and respect was revealing in more than what was in Mary's heart, but it revealed the hearts of those around her.

Selflessness and sacrifice will many times be misunderstood.  It is when we allow a carnal attitude or spirit to take over that we begin to perceive sacrifice as something other than what it is.  Let us not be critical of those that around us and if we are let's check ourselves for a wrong attitude, spirit or motive.

2.The Last Supper.

a.Memorial Day – I find it interesting that Jesus established a memorial prior to his death.  He established the significance of his body and blood.  Now I know symbolically that was established in the Old Testament long before the last supper, but this was a new pattern of memorial that Jesus established.

The act of communion has always been sacred to me.  The significance of the memory and the sobriety that comes with it always leaves me with a feeling of unworthiness.  I am glad that communion is more than a tradition or a common occurrence.  I am thankful for the significance it holds for us as Christians.

b.Betrayal and Forgiveness – I am always amazed when I read this story.  The ultimate betrayal meets the ultimate forgiveness in the setting of this passage.  Jesus, in preparation for the ultimate sacrifice for sin, acknowledged the betrayal in the room, but extended the opportunity to share in the memorial of his death.  It was almost as though he was trying send a message that his broken body and shed blood was meant for his betrayer as well as his denier (Peter).  Jesus did his part of offering forgiveness and he left it up to them to do theirs.

3.Gethsemane

a.Agonizing – I see the humanity of Jesus as he begins pray for the will of God in hopes that the bitter cup be taken from him.  I also see the submission to the will of God, when he says 'nevertheless not my will but thine be done'.  How many times have I/we agonized over situations in our life only to stop short of submission in our prayers.  I ask God to take the bitter cup and I claim my victory and deliverance from situations, but never stop and consider submission to the will of God.  Sometimes his will takes us through some painful circumstances that we will never understand.  Oh, but how sweet it is on the other side of the challenges and circumstances.  It may be dark at times and the thunder may roll and it might even feel as though the earth is shaking beneath us, but when we are in total submission to God we can know and take comfort that the darkness, shaking and trembling are part of his will being manifested in our lives.

4.Peter's Denial.

a.Afar off - Peter vehemently disputed Jesus claim that he would deny Jesus.  He was probably hurt that Jesus would even suggest such a thing.  How could someone so close to Jesus even be suspected of denying him.

Vs 58 says that Peter followed him at a distance.  The more space we allow between God and us, the easier it is to set him aside when the occasion is right.  Peter followed close enough to see what was going on, but was far enough away to not be suspected as a disciple.  I want to stay as close to him as I can so there is not mistaking to whom I pledge my allegiance.

There were so many additional points that I could have rambled about.  However, since I tend to get long winded in my typing, it is best that I stop here.

Jeff McGee

Matthew 25

Jesus is speaking in 2 parables here that we all know very well.

1. The parable of the 5 wise and 5 foolish virgins

2. The parable of the talents given to three different servants

His parables were always there to deliver a message. Here, these are for awareness. Verse 13: Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.

Jesus didn't say 'if' or 'there may be a chance' He would come. He said, verse 31: When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory:

Let's take the 2 things the Lord wants us to have here in this chapter: 1) Be aware that He is coming; 2) show His love and compassion as directed in verse 40: And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.

All of this is for the kingdom of God and His promise in verses 33-34: And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:

Tim Jacobs

Matthew 24

The Three Questions

In Matthew 24:3, the disciples were asking three questions of Jesus:

1. When will these things be?                         ("These things" refer to the destruction of Jerusalem and Herod's Temple)                                                       

"And Jesus went out, and departed from the temple: and his disciples came to him for to shew him the buildings of the temple. And Jesus said unto them, See ye not all these things? verily I say unto you, There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down" (Mat. 24:1,2).

When Jesus spoke of the Temple's destruction, this must have startled His disciples. How did the destruction of the Temple relate to the mission of Christ? Was this somehow related to the prophesied coming of Christ as a King over the nations and to the end of the world?

2.     What will be the sign of your coming?
                   
Jesus tells His disciples point blank (how is it that we miss it today?) that there will be an increase of sorrows in the world just before the destruction of Jerusalem.  He calls these events "great tribulation."                                                                                                     "For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be" (Mat. 24:21).

3.    And the end of the age?

"Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh. So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors" (Mat. 24:32,33).

The dispensationalists interpreted "the fig tree" to be the nation-state of Israel which reemerged in 1948. They linked the restoration of Israel to the following statement of Jesus:

"Verily I say unto you, this generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled" (Mat. 24:34).

Up until this point, Jesus is speaking of first century events, but then the focus of the Olivet Discourse shifts towards the literal end of the world:

"Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only" (Mat. 24:35,36).

REAL MEN get ready it does not get better than this. Jesus is coming soon!

Rev Luis Morga

Matthew 23

As I read through this chapter, as I have many times before, I began to focus on how Jesus was criticizing the religious leaders of his day for their hypocrisy; how he seemed so fed up with what he saw from these supposedly pious men.  However, as I finished the chapter, I realized something.  I realized the reason he was so angry and spoke so harshly against those men.l

Jesus was mourning and filled with indignation for how Jerusalem was behaving.  He stated that he had often wanted to take care of and nurture this city, but they had been led astray, ostensibly by the very Pharisees that he had been riling against.  He was troubled and desperately wanting Jerusalem to turn away from this hypocritical road they had traveled.  I believe Jesus is being very clear that he wants us to turn to his example.

Brad Hoff

Matthew 22

V32.  I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? God is not the God of the dead, but of the living.

There are so many good scriptures in this chapter, but this one really stood out to me.  It says that God is the God of the living and not of the dead. This scripture really speaks for itself.  If we aren't careful we can start blaming God for all the bad stuff in our lives or think God just doesn't care.  When was the last time you looked at all the good things he has done for you?

All blessing come from God, even when we do not realize it.  Sometimes God is blessing you when you don't even know it, giving you blessings that you will not realize until later in life. You're kids receiving the Holy Ghost, or even a close friend being saved.  Sometimes you will have hard times, but God is in charge and will bless you.  Remember God is the God of the living and good things in life.

Marshall McGee

Matthew 21

Its amazing when we look into this chapter and see so much here to feed and instruct us.  We see the triumphant entry of Christ into Jerusalem on a colt, and the way the people worshiped him.  He then cleans the temple and heals the blind and lame.

When I reflect back over the different times in Matthew, not one person who came to Jesus asking to be healed, was turned away, not one went home in the same condition that they arrived, He was moved with compassion and healed them all.  It is wonderful to hear about Jesus healing people, to see the way he is moving in our lives, and still ministering today.

In the latter verses are the story of the house holder that planted a vineyard and let it out to wicked husbandmen, who robbed him and killed his servants and son.

Let us be good husbandmen, and REAL men, and protect and, nourish the good families that God has given each of us. What a precious gift we have all been given, our wife and children.  Thank You JESUS.   

Ralph Cain

Matthew 20

We have four things in this chapter.  Each one is a sermon that can stand alone.

I. The parable of the labourers in the vineyard (v. 1-16).

II. A prediction of Christ's approaching sufferings (v. 17-19).

III. The petition of two of the disciples, by their mother, reproved (v. 20-28).

IV. The petition of the two blind men granted, and their eyes opened (v. 29-34).

The parable of the labourers in the vineyard

The each laborer agreed with the wage that was set, but some grumbled when it was time to be paid.  Their complaint was that had worked longer hours but had received the same wage as someone who only worked an hour.  The object of this parable seems to be, to show that though the Jews were first called into the vineyard, at length the gospel should be preached to the Gentiles, and they should be admitted to equal privileges. (Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary)

Verse 16
"So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen."

Christ's approaching Suffering

This is the third time that Christ gave his disciples notice of his approaching sufferings; he was not going up to Jerusalem to celebrate the passover, and to offer up himself the great Passover; both must be done at Jerusalem.

The Ambitious Mother

20:21 What wilt thou?

 The mother speaks for them. That these my two sons may sit, etc. They still believed that he would be an earthly monarch, notwithstanding that he had just told them of his speedy death.

20:22 Ye know not what is implied in being advanced in my kingdom, and necessarily prerequired thereto. All who share in my kingdom must first share in my sufferings. Are you able and willing to do this?

Both these expressions, The cup, the baptism, are to be understood of his sufferings and death. The like expressions are common among the Jews.  Wesley's Notes

Jesus's Answer

"But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister;"

"And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:"

Petition of the Two Blind Men.

A great mulitude followed Jesus out of Jericho. Two blind men called out to Jesus, one being Bartimaeus as specifically named in Mark and Luke.

 "And Jesus stood still, and called them, and said, What will ye that I shall do unto you?

"So Jesus had compassion on them, and touched their eyes: and immediately their eyes received sight, and they followed him."

This question stands out as one that Christ is also asking us.  What will ye that I shall do unto you?

Bron Dutton

Matthew 19

Matthew 19 talks about divorce, little children, Jesus, and the story of the rich young ruler.  The story that jumps out at me is the rich young ruler.  As we all would be considered in our modern times like this person, very wealthy in material possessions in comparison to almost any earlier time period. It is easy for us to criticize the young man, but how many of us are willing to sell all we have and follow Jesus? We are fortunate none of us have been put to this test.

We need to make sure that we are not like Lot's wife, who looked back when the day of judgment came, desiring her life on earth more than the future in God's hands. I pray that God will make us more and more desiring of his presence, and being filled with more of his Holy Ghost as we continue in our walk with him.  Let nothing tie us down to this present world. We know that this world will in the end melt with fervent heat. God promises his disciples, and us, at the end of the chapter 100 times as much if we leave all, including our worldly relationships, that hinder our spiritual growth. We must press on!!!!

Paul Pixley

Matthew 18

"The servant fell on his knees before him. 'Be patient with me,' he begged, 'and I will pay back everything.' The servant's master took pity on him, canceled the debt and let him go.

Matt 18:26-27 (NIV)

"The quality of mercy is not strained"

The mercy of God is not confined to a certain few. It is not contingent upon whether or not we are deserving. It does not look through condemning eyes, but the great mercy of God looks through eyes of love. It is for all those who desire Him.

We all are unworthy vessels. Romans 3:23 reminds us that we are all in God's debt, it says " For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." 

In sin were we born, yet through the precious blood of Jesus Christ, and the infilling of the Holy Ghost we have been born again!

While we were dead in sin, He died for us, and now we have life and life more abundantly!

But you just don't understand. I have gone to places I shouldn't have ever gone. His feet were pierced for you!

But you don't know what I have done with these hands. The hands of Jesus were split open and blood poured from the wound to cover you!

I have thought so many unclean thoughts how could God forgive me? The crown of thorns were placed on his head and forced into His skull. The blood has covered your mind!

But I have walked away from God. I have turned my back on Him. They stripped Him of His clothes and beat his back! The blood of Jesus has set us free! It has washed away every sin! 

What can wash away our sin? Nothing but the blood of Jesus!!

Ryan Denard

Matthew 17

Overview
Vs 1-8 Transfiguration
Vs 9-13 Elijah - John the Baptist
Vs 14-21 Healing of Demon possessed boy
Vs 22-23 Prophecy of death and betrayal of Jesus
Vs 24-27 Tax payment and miracle of fishing

In reviewing this chapter in preparation to write something today I find 5 very important and relevant topics that could be written on at length.  As has been enumerated these are some very important times for the ministry of Jesus.  Jesus is wrapping up his time in flesh on the earth he is making preparations to empower the church that is about to be birthed.

He shows that he is intimately acquainted with Elijah and Moses.  He understands the ministry that John the Baptist was assigned to do.  Jesus tells his disciples what is required to pray for those who are beyond just being sick in body.  He further foretells what he is facing in regard to his death and what his end will be.

Then we come to a place where Jesus is planning to have a little fun at the IRS's expense.  Please understand that this is the "Israel Revenue Service."  Have you ever known how government loves to take action that will make you look bad?

The tax man asked Peter if his master paid taxes.  Peter responded yes he did, when he came to Jesus he was asked a strong question.  Vs 25-26 NIV "From whom do the kings of the earth collect duty and taxes-from their own sons or from others?"   "From others," Peter answered.  Jesus then said to him "Then the sons are exempt."
This is yet another example of a truth that Jesus did not come to be a king of this earthly world, if He did then Peter and the disciples would be exempt.

Now for the fun;
NIV Vs 27 "But so that we may not offend them, go to the lake and throw in your line.  Take the first fish you catch, open its mouth and you will find a four-drachma coin,  Take it and give it to them for my tax and yours."

Peter was a professional, commercial fisherman.  He knew exactly how and where to go to catch fish.  Can you imagine what Peter thought with this current assignment from the Lord?  Peter has seen thousands fed with a small boy's lunch, the dead were called back to life, leprosy was healed, and demons cast out of one and of many.  He saw his mother-in-law healed, and he personally had walked on the water.

So here Peter goes walking down to the lake, maybe remembering all of those miracles, or maybe he was feeling rebuked at the words of the Lord regarding the payment of taxes.  As you saw in chapter 16 Peter knew what it was to be recognized as someone of importance in the sight of Jesus.  He also experienced the feeling of being rebuked, by being told to get behind me.

Not to make this a longer writing then necessary but let me digress slightly.  My father-in-law was an avid fisherman.  One time he went fishing at the river and was approached by a gentleman to inquire as to his success asking "caught anything yet?"  So Pop reels in his line, toward the end of the line there is a bobber, a leader, a sinker; and that was all, no bait or even a hook.  He turned and grinned at the man and said not yet.  Then threw his line back in the water, set back down on the grass pulled his hat over his head and rested some more.  My thought is if you are going to catch something you have to use a hook and some bait. 

Is that what Peter did, did he use bait or just a hook?  Was Peter surprised to find a coin in the fish mouth, probably not?  I am not sure, I was not there; yes I'm old but not that old. 
Peter pulled the fish out of the river, opened his mouth and took out a coin worth 4 drachma.  He then took it to the temple as he was instructed to pay the Lord's tax and Peter's also.

I could go on to write a long dissertation as to the history and worth of a "drachma."  I could explain about the temple and the Roman taxing principles, or I could tell a longer story about my father-in-law.  Suffice to say that I can see in my very fertile imagination the Lord Jesus smiling as he saw Peter open up the mouth of the fish and pulled out that coin.  Kind of makes you want to go fishing doesn't it?

In closing I would remind you of one scripture, Philippians 4:19 (KJV) "But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus."  Even if we have to go fishing to do it!

David DeTar

Matthew 16

After calling out the Pharisees and the Sadducees for being hypocrites and spiritually blind(vv1-4), Jesus warns the disciples not the fall into the same trap. We must not vainly dwell on things in the natural realm, but walk in the Spirit to perceive and understand what God reveals to us (vv 5-12).

After teaching them in the Spirit to that point, Jesus now wants to see if they perceive who he really is. When asked, Peter answers with clarity and boldness that Jesus is Christ, Son of the living God.  What a turn around!  From getting hung up over forgetting to bring bread to boldly declaring Jesus to be Christ!  We must stay in tune with God to have this clarity.

We need to be extremely sensitive to the Lord, because as quickly as we can fall into the vein of the Spirit, we can just as quickly fall out as seen by Peter being rebuked in verse 23.  Jesus is Christ, and we must as verses 24-25 state deny ourselves, take up our crosses, and follow the Lord, losing our lives to find them.  We definitely have heightened our spiritual awareness in getting back to our roots.  Let's stay sensitive to the prodding and guidance of the Lord and see where He wants to take us in this journey.

Dwight Chandler

Matthew 15

Chapter 15 of Matthew, verses 1 - 20, begins with the scribes and Pharisees coming to Jesus condemning the disciples for not washing their hands before eating, which transgresses the traditions of the elders. (These were rigid extensive rituals of Jewish customs that were commanded by tradition NOT by scripture.)  Jesus answers them with a question, "Why do you transgress the commandment of God because of your tradition?"  Then Jesus calls them hypocrites and explains that it is not what goes into your mouth that defiles the body, but what comes out of the mouth.  Jesus quotes Isaiah saying, "These people draw near to me with their mouths, and honor me with their lips, but their heart is far from me."

Verses 21 – 28 speaks of the persistent, unwavering faith of the Gentile woman from Canaan that had a demon-possessed daughter.  Though she was a Gentile and considered a "dog" to the Jews, she came to intercede for her daughter and Jesus granted her request.

In verses 29 – 31, Jesus once again is healing and performing miracles for all those that are brought to him.  This is not out of faith from any man but from Jesus' compassion for their needs. He also had compassion on the multitude that is following him and miraculously feeds the four thousand men, besides women and children, with seven loaves and a few fish. Here is another miracle of compassion by Jesus. 

As REAL men we must ensure our hearts are right and then we will not defile our temples with what proceeds from our mouths, but will glorify God. We will also have persistent faith for the needs of OTHERS and be their connection to the One who can take care of their needs. When we learn to walk in the spirit, we will not question God on how he will provide but will have the faith to trust him in every situation that he will supply our needs according to his riches in glory.  As REAL men, we should strive to show the same compassion as Jesus had for those in need.

Billy Potter

Matthew 14

'Smack dab' in the middle of this great book is a wealth of instruction for the church in Euless :

Verses 1- 11 - Notice the instant conviction that engulfs Herod. If you are filled with the Holy Ghost and have taken on the name of Jesus Christ in water baptism, then you are the fame/reputation, of the one and only God Almighty.  Our daily walk should be a reflection of God's holiness and people in the act of sin need to feel a little uncomfortable around us. But as we give them the love of Jesus, that uncomfortable feeling will soon turn into a desire to possess the same promise that makes us so different.

Verses 13-14 - Get ready, because they're coming!  As we allow the very nature of Jesus Christ to completely transform our hearts and minds, people will follow. The World is in a frenzied state of panic and hungry hearts are crying out for an answer to their misery.
Let's tell the World of God's great love through word and deed in Jesus name.

Verses 16-21 - Let's get REAL. This is not the time to hold back. Take all that you have and place it in the Master's hands and He will make up the difference. The time for being insecure and unsure is over.  We need holy boldness among our men like never before.
(I'm talking to myself here as well) Those hungry hearts need to be fed, and our church is the buffet table of God's goodness.  All we have to do is point them in the right direction.

Verses 22-32 - The command of "Come," still echos across space and time and as men are persuaded, they take up that call with a bold purpose as they step out onto the waves. In Christ Jesus we are more than conquerors.  The storms of life have no authority over us, because at the center of the swirling tempest is the ONE who has true authority over Heaven and Earth. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus and you will not waiver.

Verses 33-36 - Now that you have made it through, what will you do next? When you receive the knowledge of who He really is truth will cause you to worship and then you will be compelled to bring others to the King.  Some will be satisfied with just a little touch of Him, but I think God stands ready to give away all He has to whom ever will.  If you have been waiting for a time to give it all away, wait no more. Together, let's embrace all He has for us!

Robert MacPhee Jr

Matthew 13

Parable of the sower: -- Where is the fault of failure?

1. It does not lie in God, the sower. God does not predestinate men to fail. He willeth not the death of a sinner.

2. The cause of failure is not in any impotency of truth. The old thinkers accounted for it by the depravity of matter. Once acknowledged freewill in man, and the origin of evil does not lie in God.

3. The fault might be solely in the soil of the heart.

I. THE CAUSES OF FAILURE.

1. The first of these is want of spiritual perception. There are persons whose religion is all outside, never penetrates beyond the intellect. Conceptions of religious life, which are only conceptions outward, having no lodgment in the heart, disappear. Fowls of the air devoured the seed. This is a picture of thought dissipated, and no man can tell when or how it went.

2. A second cause of failure is want of depth of character. This stony ground is the thin layer of earth upon a bed of rock. Shallow soft is like superficial character. There is easily-moved susceptibility. A pleasant, sunny religion would be the life to suit them. The superficial character is connected with the hard heart; beneath the thin surface lies the bed of rock. It is among those of light enjoyment we must look for stony heartlessness.

3. Once more impressions come to nothing when the mind is subjected to dissipating influences, and yields to them -- "Some fell among thorns." Two classes of dissipating influences distract such minds. The cares of this world. Martha was "cumbered with much serving." The deceitfulness of riches dissipate. Weeding work painful.

II. FOR THE PERMANENCE OF RELIGIOUS IMPRESSIONS THIS PARABLE SUGGESTS THREE REQUIREMENTS.

1. A holy and good heart. Earnest sincerity.

2. Meditation is a second requisite for perseverance. They keep the Word which they have heard. We must not confuse reverie with meditation. Truth is dwelt on till it receives innumerable applications; it is done in silence.

3. The third requisite is endurance -- "They bring forth fruit with patience." There is an active and passive endurance, bearing pain without complaining; and under persecution. It is also the opposite of that impatience which cannot wait. We are disappointed if the harvest does not come at once.

Rev. Luis Morga

Matthew 12

Such stifling Pharisaic legalism that was applied to the Sabbath. "For the Son of Man is the Lord of the Sabbath" not the Pharisees [Matthew 12:8(NIV)]. "The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath" [Mark 2:27(NIV)].

Lets us as REAL men not have a hint of a Pharisaic nature in us (hypocritically self-righteous and condemnatory) but let the love of God that's shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost be evident to all. "The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him..." [Matthew:12:35(NIV)].

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. [Matthew 6:33(KJV)]

Bro Eric Mock

Matthew 11

Matthew 11:12

From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has been forcefully advancing, and forceful men lay hold of it. (NIV)

This saying is true even today. Previously, before making this statement Jesus told two of John's disciples about the miracles and healings that were being performed in the cities he preached at. He was assuring them that the kingdom had indeed come, and he was the One who was prophesied about.

As we see in the New Testament whenever the kingdom of heaven was preached something started happening, and the miraculous would began to pour out. There were forceful men who laid hold of this truth, so that others in turn would receive the blessings of the kingdom and be healed.

Even today the kingdom is still forcefully advancing and I see the forceful men pressing through opposition, so that healings and wonders would take place in the lives of others. And just as Jesus told the disciples of John, we can give assurance to this world that what we believe in is true; through the miraculous, the healings, the dead being raised to life, and the salvation that brings everlasting life. That they may repent and be brought into his loving arms, in which rest is forever.

Matt 11:28-30

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." (NIV)

Mike Creel

Matthew 10

When I first started reading this passage, my initial reaction was one of pity for each of the disciples. But the more I read, the more I realized just how much of a privilege it truly is to serve our Lord. He paid the ultimate sacrifice in giving his life for us all.

Verses 17 and 18 of our passage reads, "But beware of men: for they will deliver you up to the councils, and they will scourge you in their synagogues; And ye shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles." And we thought we lived in stressful times!! Several of these men gave their lives for this beautiful truth. How much more should we as REAL men put forth effort to emulate God's Love to His beloved church?

The Lord made his purpose and the risks associated with it perfectly clear to each of the disciples. Along with obedience displayed in Chapter 9, they were going to have to learn how to trust the Lord. Verses 9 and 10 say it like this, "Do not take along any gold or silver or copper in your belts; take no bag for the journey, or extra tunic, or sandals or a staff; for the worker is worth his keep." The Lord was asking them to trust that he would provide their every need. And He did.

When we, as REAL men, obey the Lord and follow the precepts underlined in His word, we trust that He knows what is best for us. I'm so thankful that we serve a God who always has our best interests and provision in mind.

Donnie Gandee

Matthew 9

No Questions Asked, Obedience

Matt 9:9
9 And as Jesus passed forth from thence, he saw a man, named Matthew, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he saith unto him, Follow me. And he arose, and followed him. KJV

Luke 5:27-28
27 And after these things he went forth, and saw a publican, named Levi, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he said unto him, Follow me.
28 And he left all, rose up, and followed him. KJV

Call it Blind Faith, call it topsy-turvy trust, call it a loss of reason, but whatever you call it, it still stands as tall as a palm tree in the desert sands of doubt! Jesus is still calling those to a "No Questions Asked Obedience." Not that we don't methodically think through our decisions. Not that we don't wait patiently and resist quick, impulsive choices. We certainly believe in godly counsel on direction, but there are times that the will of God doesn't make human sense. When it doesn't do we allow others to talk us out of His will.

Luke said, "He left all." He wasn't promised a salary, a retirement package, an expense account, or even a lateral move within the company. In fact, it may have looked like a demotion. That is where trust comes in! Not pseudo-trust. You know, that trust that says, "I'll follow you and trust you if you…."and we give Jesus a list of 10 things that we need before we step off the cliff. No, He looks for complete trust. Trust that looks disfigured. Trust that doesn't make sense. Trust that causes others to shake their heads in disbelief. Trust that places you in His will. Trust that allows you to sleep at night. Trust that gives sweet peace. Trust that takes you to an upper room. Trust that gives you spiritual empowerment. Trust that allows you to function in your call. Trust that builds with gold, silver, and precious stone.

The most miserable person is the one of delay. I am talking about an internal attitude. Every time He nudges there is hesitation. Every time He calls there are illegitimate questions. Every time He beckons there is balking. That is the equation for misery!

Are you in the will of God?

When we stand before Him at judgment, fire is going to prove our obedience to His will. Wood, hay, and stubble will go up in smoke and a life of spiritual poverty will be standing alone. Why? Too many questions and excuses when He called.

Cut the strangling strings of question. Escape the noose of idol worship. You know, clinging to what is at the expense of losing what will be. He left all for the will of God. Are there any attitudes, unresolved issues, jealousies, envy or other spiritual vices that just simply need to be left behind? Do it to be in His will!

Pastor McLaughlin 

Matthew 8

Matthew 8 is a chapter full of wonderful miracles.  However, I want to focus on what went on surrounding the miracles.

1When he was come down from the mountain, great multitudes followed him.

He, Jesus, then healed a leper, a centurion's servant, Peter's mother-in-law and all that were sick and brought to him.  (v 2-17) 

18Now when Jesus saw great multitudes about him, he gave commandment to depart unto the other side.

The scene that happens next reminds me of a t-shirt a peer wore in college.  It said "Jesus is coming, look busy." 

Upon hearing the commandment to leave the time of miracles, two different disciples, part of the great multitude, decided to look busy.  (v. 19-22)

It is easy to live for God when the Spirit is moving and "everyone else is doing it," but when Jesus calls us to a lonely place, a place where no one is there to hide behind' no crowd to blend in to, we often try to "look busy" or some how obfuscate His calling. 

To be true disciples, as we REAL men should desire, we must enter the boat.(v.23)

Once we decide to follow Christ without reservations, we are mistaken if we think the hardest part is over.  The storms of life will toss our boat, sometimes hard enough to shake our confidence.  Fear not, the Lord is in our boat and if we will just call on Him, He will see us through the storm. After which, we may land on another shore of promise where He will work many more miracles.

Take heart, REAL Men of Euless, if we are on the boat, remember, He is in the boat. 

Keith G. Mathews

Matthew 7

Matthew 7:7 Matthew 7:7: 7 [Note:e]"Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.

Asking: Strong's Enhanced Lexicon reveals the following on this word. "αἰτέω [aiteo /ahee•teh•o/] [Note:v. Of uncertain derivation; ][Note:TDNT 1:191; ][Note:TDNTA 30; ][Note:GK 160; 71 occurrences; ][Note:AV translates as "ask" 48 times, "desire" 17 times, "beg" twice, "require" twice, "crave" once, and "call for" once. ]1 to ask, beg, call for, crave, desire, require."

Asking is definitely the easiest of the three steps because it requires the least amount of effort. Let's take a look at verse 9-11 of the same chapter.

  9 Or what man is there among you who, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? 10 Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent? 11 If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!
I wonder how many people have read this verse and thought, "Yeah, right; how many times have I asked God for something and it never came to pass?" Have you ever watched a child pray for the Holy Ghost? I remember preaching a message a couple of years ago that was one of the most difficult messages that I've ever had to preach; when I got through a young boys mother walked up to me and asked me to pray for her son. I laid my hand on his head and within a few seconds, he was speaking in other tongues. Later, in the same service, I was asked to pray for a grown man in his thirties. I repeated the same method, but after several minutes of prayer, nothing happened. No wonder the bible says, "Out of the mouths of babes and sucklings comes perfected praise." Children have no reason to doubt. They haven't known the disappointments of life. However, child-like faith is possible for adults, but I am sorry to admit that this kind of faith is hard to find in this day and age. We second, third and fourth generation Pentecostals have experienced disappointment after disappointment. I like what Jesus said in Matthew 19:13-15, "Let the little children come to me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven." If we want to simply ask and receive, we must develop a child-like faith.

 Seeking: Of uncertain affinity; [Note:TDNT 2:892; ][Note:TDNTA 300; ][Note:GK 2426; 119 occurrences; ][Note:AV translates as "seek" 100 times, "seek for" five times, "go about" four times, "desire" three times, and translated miscellaneously seven times. ]1 to seek in order to find. 1a to seek a thing. 1b to seek [in order to find out] by thinking, meditating, reasoning, to enquire into. 1c to seek after, seek for, aim at, strive after. 2 to seek i.e. require, demand. 2a to crave, demand something from someone.

This step of faith requires a little more effort. When I think of the word, "seek", my mind recalls the parable of the lost coin in Matthew 15:8, "8 Either what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she lose one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek diligently till she find it?" Notice the steps that this woman takes to find her coin.

1.  Lights a candle
2.  Sweeps the house
3.  Seeks diligently until she finds it

Light a candle: Jesus is the light of the world. I preached a message one time called "Has your candle lost its light in the midst of the fight?" Sometimes we get so distracted by the things of this world that we lose our focus. Peter walked on the water until he took his eyes off of Jesus and started paying attention to the wind and the waves. If we're not careful, we can lose our focus in the midst of the struggle. If this has happened in your life, ask God to light your world again.

Sweeps the house: Jesus had to clean out the temple before the blind and the lame could come in and be healed. (Matthew 21:12-14) Sometimes we need to do a little house cleaning. If you've lost your faith; look within your heart. Have you cluttered up your spirit with earthly pleasures? It's time to get out the broom and sweep the corners of your soul.

Seeks diligently until she finds it: Once you've completed the other two steps, it's time to start searching. Bro. Elms preached about finding Christ on the other side. The woman with the issue of blood had to find her way through the crowd in order to get to Jesus. She probably felt like giving up at some point, but she kept on searching until she found her miracle.

Knocking: Apparently a primary verb; [Note:TDNT 3:954; ][Note:TDNTA 475; ][Note:GK 3218; Nine occurrences; ][Note:AV translates as "knock" nine times. ]1 to knock: at the door.
This word doesn't carry a double meaning, but it simply means, to knock at the door. Some people can simply ask and they receive. Some people seek and they find; but some must approach the throne of God and keep knocking until they get an answer from God.

I am reminded of the story in the Mark 7:24-30, "  24 And from thence he arose, and went into the borders of Tyre and Sidon, and entered into an house, and would have no man know it: but he could not be hid. 25 For a certain woman, whose young daughter had an unclean spirit, heard of him, and came and fell at his feet: 26 [Note:†] The woman was a Greek[Note:f], a Syrophenician by nation; and she besought him that he would cast forth the devil out of her daughter.  27 But Jesus said unto her, Let the children first be filled: for it is not meet to take the children's bread, and to cast it unto the dogs. 28 And she answered and said unto him, Yes, Lord: yet the dogs under the table eat of the children's crumbs. 29 And he said unto her, For this saying go thy way; the devil is gone out of thy daughter. 30 And when she was come to her house, she found the devil gone out, and her daughter laid upon the bed.

I wonder how many of us would have given up after the first request. I'm sure many of us would have walked away and thought, "That snob." Perhaps we would have kept on until he turned and rejected us verbally. At that point some of us would have turned away and decided to never come back again, but this woman wouldn't give up so easily. She didn't get offended; she just realized that her need was bigger than her pride. I wonder what would happen if we would come to the realization that our needs are bigger than our pride? Jesus told a story about a woman who needed justice from an unjust judge. After pleading with him day after day, he finally surrendered and gave her justice. We don't serve an unjust God! He is merciful and compassionate; slow to anger and abounding in love.

If you need something from God, ask, and if that doesn't work, seek, and if you still don't receive the miracle, keep knocking until you do receive it! Stop doubting and believe!!!


Jordan Mills

Matthew 6

Three key verses stand out to me in this chapter:

1.       Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him (vs 8)

Jesus was talking about our attitudes and intentions of our Christian living. How we should be REAL men when we give our tithes and offerings (vs1-4); when we pray (vs 5-8); and when we fast (vs16-18). He implored us to do these things in secret, where no one knows, not boasting about our giving, our praying, and our fasting but giving of ourselves in humility. Jesus also reiterates the point about humility with the story in Luke 14:7-11 regarding where to sit when invited to a wedding. Verse 11 tells us that if we exalt ourselves we will be abased or degraded, but if we humble ourselves we will be exalted. Who would you rather exalt you--yourself or the bridegroom?

Then He follows this up with the example of how we all should pattern our prayer lives with the Lord's Prayer (vs 9-13). We can all quote the Lord's Prayer and should constantly pray these things and teach this to others including our children.

2.       For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also (vs 21)

What things do you desire? What things do you live every moment for? These things are our treasures. If we are constantly desiring things of this world, we are not desiring the will of God. We cannot serve God and mammon (vs 24). REAL men desire the things of God for their lives, their family and their church.  Where is your heart today? Wherever it is, that's your treasure. Evaluate your treasures and see if they line up with God's will.

3.       But seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you. (vs 33)

Jesus wanted us to know that we can trust Him. How hard is it, especially as men to give up control of our situations? To completely trust that He will provide for us no matter what? He is not ignorant of our needs (vs 32). God knows that we have to have things for sustenance here on earth, but he will supply all our needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:19).

Let's be men today who are humble; who know where our hearts are—stayed on Him; and are constantly seeking Him first. All these work hand in hand with God giving the increase. In your family, in your finances, in your children, in your ministry and in our church.

Tim Jacobs

Matthew 5

To sum up this chapter in one sentence, I must quote a seemingly overused phrase: "What Would Jesus Do?  As I read through the "Be Attitudes," and the rest of the chapter, for another countless time, I realize the point Jesus is trying to drive home is my response to the situations in my life is what matters most.   Blessed are the meek… blessed are the Peace Makers … blessed are they that mourn … Go the extra mile … obey the commandments AND teach others to do so: what I do matters. It is more than just doing, though, we must live it. Jesus wasn't just speaking here, Jesus was living it.  As I evaluate the journey to the cross, I find he fulfilled every part of these commandments: meek, peacemaker, mourner, obeyed and taught others, walked the extra mile … for me.

When God anointed Aaron and his sons as priests in Numbers 18, they were told to "… Partake in the iniquity of the altar … and the stranger would be put to death.  The word, "stranger" here can be translated, "estranged." So the one who allows themselves to become emotionally separated from the commandments of God are spiritually dead.  Paul, referencing Numbers 18 in I Corinthians 9, says:

19 For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more. 20 And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law; 21 To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law. 22 To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. 23 And this I do for the gospel's sake, that I might be partaker thereof with you.

So I challenge you R.E.A.L men, who are kings and priests, don't be estranged to the gospel. When it comes to your brother, sister, and the lost, partake of the altar; laugh with them, cry with them, turn the other cheek, become vulnerable for the Gospels sake that we might save some!  After all, it's what Jesus would do.

Jason Mathews

Matthew 4

We are all very familiar with Matthew 4 when Jesus fasted forty days and nights and was tempted by the devil. While looking at this I noticed that first Jesus was baptized at the end of chapter 3 and starting with verse 12 of chapter 4 Jesus began His ministry.

I understand that the devil is not all knowing but he can tell when someone has determined in their heart to do God's will. The enemy took notice when Jesus was baptized and started the fast. Jesus may not have just been tempted at the end of His fast but even during it. Was it that the enemy knew that he was in for a rough time if he let Jesus complete the fast? Luke 4:2 makes it appear that Jesus was being tempted through out His fast.

This was given to me as an example for me to pattern my life after. When I feel God calling me to higher heights and deeper depths in Him, the enemy can sense it as well and will do everything to stop me. I must have an bulldog grip and not be moved.

I must keep my focus on what God is wanting me to do and think of how my actions will affect the people around me by me choosing to do or not do what I am being called to. What would happen to/become of me if I try to go straight into the calling God gives me and skip the crucifying of flesh?

Randal Sheppard

Matthew 3

John the Baptist, key phrases associated with him:
         
        "Repent for the kingdom of heaven is at hand"
        "O generation of vipers"
        "I indeed baptize you with water"
        "He is mightier than I"
        "I am not worthy to bear his shoes"
        "He must increase but I must decrease"
        Leather Girdle, Camel hair clothing
        Locusts and wild honey
 
These are statements pertaining to a very self confident man.  John was someone who is not intimidated by those that disagreed with him. 
 
You have heard the term, "I wouldn't carry water for anyone."  Well John felt so strongly about his position that he would not have only carried water; he would have carried Jesus' shoes.  The problem was that he did not feel worthy to do that.
 
So I have a question for you, is there room in the Kingdom of God for someone who is bold, outspoken, brash and controversial?  A person who is not self conscience of his clothing or parentage?  Apparently there is, and John is a prime example of someone who knew what his mission was and was determined to do it to the fullest of his ability.
 
So now down to you, where is the Lord calling you?  What is the Holy Ghost leading you to do or to say?

Wednesday evening there was a young man that prayed through in the Holy Ghost, he is the son of parents who at one time attended a Pentecostal church.  Because of the prompting of the Spirit of God Marshall McGee taught this young man a Bible Study.  Bold, you bet your socks he was bold.  This is the type of Holy Boldness that the church of today needs.
 
It is not about the clothes you wear, who your parents are.  It is about your willingness to do what the Lord calls you to do when He calls you and where He sends you.

David DeTar

Matthew 2

JESUS, JESUS, JESUS, Oh what a savior. Even though Satan tried to have him killed as a baby he is still alive today and will be forevermore.  The wise men start worshiping the King in the second verse, when he is just a babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, we are still worshiping him today, and we will worship him for all eternity.

I am awed when I think of the love that our King had for us, how he left all the greatness of heaven to come to this sinful world for us.

Not only that he would come to his own people, but he came to Bethlehem of Judah, the least among the princes of Judah. (v6) He did not come with all the splendor and glory that was due him.  He was not just another baby, but the savior of all mankind, the almighty in flesh, our redeemer,  our healer, our righteousness, our way maker, ect.ect.!

I can only imagine how all the angels of heaven reacted that day, to look on the face of one that would not only be innocent at birth, but would be innocent forever.

In (v17) & (v23) we see two prophecies about him being fulfilled also.
 
Ralph Cain

Matthew 1

Matthew 1 documents one of the most anticipated and important events in biblical history, the birth of Jesus.  Matthew spends a significant portion of the chapter outlining the lineage of Jesus proving the bloodline through David to Abraham.  However, I just want to key in on a couple points from the last part of the chapter:

1.Joseph's thoughtful pause:  I am not sure how long Joseph pondered the scenario of the Virgin birth prior to the Angelic visitation.  However, the indication is that he was pondering the best approach to handling the situation.  Vs 19 says that he was a just man and did not want to make Mary a public example.  Joseph evidently had questions regarding the events leading up to this point in time.  No doubt he was well aware of the prophetic proclamations of the birth of Jesus.  No doubt he understood that prophesy pointed to this event, but how could he possibly accept that Mary and he were chosen to be such an intimate part of the fulfillment of the promise.

Imagine the enormity of the situation at hand.  This moment has been discussed, taught and prophesied for generations, but to think that he is the chosen descendant is more than he can fathom.  Put yourself in his shoes after you are informed by your fiancée that she is expecting and Gabriel told her that she was going to birth the promised Messiah.

What I like about this passage is that Joseph did not react based on his feelings and questions, but rather he began to think on it.  It was in this time of thoughtful consideration that he experienced the Angelic visitation.

So many times we allow time to steal the freshness of our promises and time allows doubt to creep in.  We may just find ourselves faced with dilemmas without understanding the direction to take.  Don't be hasty with your actions, but stop long enough in thoughtful consideration to allow God to speak to you.  If you act on your own, you may just miss out on your promise.

2.Joseph's obedience:  Joseph had a decision to accept the dream that he had or write it off to another bad pizza night.  I have often wondered what would have happened if Joseph had taken his own path to "put Mary away privily".  No doubt God's plan was going to be fulfilled, but would it have changed his role in the events that were unfolding.  However, due to his obedience to the angel of the Lord, he sealed his role in the fulfillment of prophesy.

This world is filled with static that, if we allow it, will confuse us in to accepting less than what God wants for us.  Let's ensure that we take time to stop and listen to voice of God as it guides and directs us.  Also, once we listen we must obey that voice.

Jeff McGee

2 Timothy 3

"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:  That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works." (vv16,17)

 

These two verses studied on their own are a testimony to the power of the Word.  When we study His Word we become more complete (perfect) and we are empowered to live a holy life (Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.- Psalm 119:11).

 

Notice how complete scripture is.  The Word illuminates what is true (doctrine), what is false (reproof), what we should not do (correction), and what we should do (instruction in righteousness).  It is the perfect model for teaching.

 

Now, consider the context.  Paul has assured Timothy to stand firm on the foundation of faith that is already in his life.  He has warned that "perilous times shall come."  And, then points him back to the complete and perfect Word of the Lord.  Men we have all that we need to withstand the enemy: to stand faithful with our minds set on our purpose.  Let's continue in the Word.

2 Timothy 2

This weekend at Men's Conference was one of great inspiration and instruction. This chapter was quoted by Rev. Randy Keyes in his message that encouraged us to be faithful men.  The chapter begins by telling us to be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus and in verse 2 he tells us to commit to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. (HCSB). I was convicted in my heart today, knowing that I need to strive daily to be a faithful man in the kingdom of God.

In reading further into the chapter I find also where Paul was encouraging Timothy to not only become a teacher (in verse 2) but as a soldier, athlete, farmer, worker, vessel, and as a servant. Submissive and patient in humility. He encouraged him to be loyal, disciplined, a hard worker, diligent, and pure, as a vessel of honor.

All of these things are traits of a faithful man, what we must strive to be. Reach for greater things in Christ, become a REAL Man, a Faithful Man in the kingdom.

Bless you all today.  Let the Lord, the almighty, and faithful One, work in you life today!  Let's have church and be aggressive in our worship and praise!!

Joe Crosson

2 Timothy 1

The theme I find in this chapter is a calling to hold on to the foundation of faith in Timothy's life.

Paul begins his exhortation of Timothy drawing from the foundation of faith that his forefathers laid (v3).  Paul  encourages Timothy to do the same: "clearly recalling your sincere faith that first lived in your grandmother Lois, then in your mother Eunice, and that I am convinced is in you also." (v5)

The message was clear.  The storms of life and trials will come.  There will be a hard road ahead.  The way to withstand…? "Hold on to the pattern of sound teaching that you have heard from me" (v13) "Guard, through the Holy Spirit who lives in us, that good thing entrusted to you." (v14)

I am confident that the men of our church embody this call.  We are building upon… "not laying again a foundation (Heb 6:1)"  Through the leadership of our church a foundation of truth and love has  been set.  Let's commit today to build the kingdom through any difficulty.

Jason Ouellette

1 Timothy 6

Paul begins by exhorting Timothy and the Church to establish a good work ethic. Those that are over us, whether it be on the job or otherwise, we should do our tasks to the best of our abilities, glorifying God by our example.

One thing I have noticed about all of our men in the Church is every one of us, whatever line of work we do, are the 'best of the best'. Paul continues telling us that we should hold on to this truth and to not consent to the words of anyone that teaches otherwise.

We are instructed also to not be overcome by a love of money. In our "gotta have" society of today we have to be careful to keep everything in perspective. Remembering that what we do have is of the Lord and not of ourselves.

I have seen a lot of people that have committed emotional, spiritual "suicide" by letting money become a god, and as Paul said piercing themselves through with many sorrows, but we as REAL men, have another hope that we follow after. It's called righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience and meekness.

One scripture that stuck out to me was found in verse 19. "Laying up in store for themselves a good FOUNDATION against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life." Without a good foundation, the house will fall.
 
Daryl Duke