Day #289

Sermon - Audio
Matt 9-10 - Reading
Matt 9-10 - Audio

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Matthew 9-10

Earlier, Matthew showed that Jesus is the One the Old Testament prophets told would come: He fit the prophecies.

Now Matthew moved on to establish clearly the authority of the King. The miracles that Matthew now reported do more than authenticate Him as God’s Messenger. They demonstrate the extent of His authority: over sickness, nature, demons, sin, and even over death itself.

The Greek word expressing the idea of “authority” is exousia. It is also translated in English as “power.” The basic meaning of exousia is that of “freedom of action.” The greater the authority, the greater the freedom of action. Jesus in these chapters is shown to be a Person with complete authority. No one or no thing can place restrictions on Jesus’ freedom to act—for good—in your life and mine.

Ch. 9

v. 1-8 – While either statement could be spoken with ease, “your sins are forgiven” would be ‘easier’ in that it could not be disproved by onlookers. If, however, Jesus had first said, Get up and walk, and the man remained paralyzed on his mat, it would be clear Jesus was not who He claimed to be. Jesus therefore spoke not only the easier words, but He also spoke of healing, thereby proving He has power to perform both acts, healing and forgiving sin.

v. 17 – “New wine in old wineskins” is an interesting bit of dialogue. Much like Jesus said you cannot put new wine in old wineskins, you and I cannot stuff Jesus or our experience with Him into our old ways of thinking and living. Life with Jesus is a new and exciting thing. He Himself wants to fill us, to expand our personalities, and to reshape us to fit who He is. When Jesus, the Man with all power, comes into our lives, we are privileged to open ourselves up to newness.

Ch. 10

v. 1 – Immediately after establishing His own authority, you and I are shown that Jesus intended to share that authority with His followers. The human condition, people harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd needed teaching and healing. Jesus determined to multiply His ministry by sending His disciples to every place where He Himself wanted to go.

v. 16-23 – The Lord’s words to the apostles concerning the response to their ministry were not encouraging. Their task would be difficult, and they would find their situation much like that of sheep among wolves. But the messengers need not worry, for the Holy Spirit, called here the Spirit of your Father, would give them words to say that would free them from arrest.

These chapters give us deep insight into Jesus’ authority and our role in discipleship. It helps us see ourselves as kingdom citizens who have power—but who humble ourselves to serve.

--Bible Knowledge Commentary -- The Teacher’s Commentary--