11 Sep (Matthew 22 cont)

The Gospels: Jesus' Authority Questioned

Matthew 22

(v.15) Isn't it funny to read that the Pharisees thought they would trick Jesus? As we see many times, Jesus uses their own tactics against them, and if we study this, we can use His methods when discussing with skeptics.

(v.21) I teach my kids that as citizens of the United States, we are to follow the laws of the land. However, if a law makes us break God's laws, then that's a different story. One good example is some doctors who were sued because they wouldn't perform abortions. They were sued and lost money because of it, but they stood up for their values and for life.

(v.40) If we love God with all our strength, then we will treat our neighbors well. If we treat our friends and family, our neighbors and coworkers well, then we will live a productive life.

(v.43) I love how Jesus turns the tables on the Pharisees here...they can't figure this out because they truly don't understand Scripture!

Jesus is quoting Psalm 110:1 and in Hebrew, it's quite clear who is speaking to who:

The LORD said to my Lord, Sit at My right hand, till I make Your enemies Your footstool.

The first LORD is the Father, and the second Lord is the Son.

What the Pharisees couldn't wrap their minds around, was that God Himself, came into His own creation, as the newborn descendant of David, and died for our sins. Jesus created David, yet He became his successor in the royal line of David.