King Jesus and the Queen City
Today Pastor Justin challenged us to be like little children who dance when we hear the flute and mourn when we hear the dirge (Matthew 10:16-17). In Matthew 11:20-27, Jesus is denouncing the cities of Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum. These cities, which are very close together, are where Jesus did the vast majority of his ministry. The people who lived here were some of the most brilliant minds of the Galilee, and where many Rabbi’s and scholars would study and teach. They were custodians of the Scripture, so they knew it well…on paper. Jesus’ mighty works (verse 20) did not fit the framework of the day or their understanding of the Scriptures. Because of that, they did not have faith to trust Jesus for salvation.
Matthew 11:25 shows us that they did not repent because God has “hidden these things from the wise and understanding.” In other words, they were too smart and “learned” for their own good. They could not explain away Jesus’ miracles, so they discounted them.
Jesus praises His Father in verse 25 by saying that God has revealed “these things” to the little children. It takes faith. Romans 10:17 says, “Faith comes through hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.”
You do not become a follower of Jesus Christ because you are smart enough. Instead, through God’s kindness, He draws you to repentance and gives ALL a chance to have faith in Him.
To discuss as a family today
1. What gets in your way of having more faith?
2. Who do you need to speak Jesus to? Why haven’t you yet?
3. What is the difference between faith and knowledge?
Prayer
Father, thank you for the gift of faith. I praise you for the faith that I have, and I ask you humbly to increase my faith as I live for you. Father, I know that I need to speak to _________ about you. Please help me have the courage and faith to do it this week. I pray that through your kindness, you will draw ______________ to repentance. I praise you for being accessible to all that believe.