Reconciliation
“You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’
But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, ‘Raca,’ is answerable to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell.
“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift.
“Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still with him on the way, or he may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison.
I tell you the truth, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny."
Matthew 5:21-26
What Jesus is saying here is make things right.
Paul writes,
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.”
Romans 12:18,19
It is imperative that we do our best to make things right with those we have wronged. It is the only way we can truly witness to them.
Someone who even perceives that we have wronged them will hold a grudge. Will at times take us to court. And we run the potential of being thrown in jail for our misdeeds.
We must go to them and do all that is possible to correct the problem.
If we refuse to make things right to our brother then how can we possibly expect God to for give us.
We must avoid anger that only exasperates the problem and forgive those who angers us or has done things against us.
In the Lords prayer Jesus says,
“Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.”
Matthew 6:12.
We are under an obligation to correct any wrong we have done and to forgive those who have wronged us no matter what it is.
Only then can we go before the alter of God and give our gifts to Him.
Think about it.
Tuesday, 18 February 2014
Monday, 17 February 2014
The Law and Jesus
“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.
I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished. Anyone who breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.
For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven.”
Matthew 5:17-20.
Jesus did not come to abolish the laws God set out. He come to fulfil them.
The law shows us what it right and wrong. All civilized societies need a code of conduct. And Jesus makes it clear that, that code set down by God for all mankind will stay in place.
He never came to change it. However Jesus does reconcile us to the law. Should we fall short and break even the smallest part of the law, which all of us do from time to time, (it’s called sinning) all we have to do is confess that sin and Jesus will forgive our sins.
Jesus in this passage also calls us to be more righteous than the Pharisees. We should not just be doing God’s will outwardly.
What we do for God should not just be a facade. We should be making Jesus Lord of our heart and be pleasing to Him both inwardly as well as on the outside.
Our life both public and private should be in line with God’s will.
It should exceed anything that the world has.
Think about it.
Sunday, 16 February 2014
A Slap
A Slap
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’
But I tell you, Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.
And if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well.
If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles.”
Matthew 5:38-41.
Here Jesus is talking about forgiveness in a way.
He talks about turning the other cheek. From what I understand the slap here is the slap with the back of the hand as in an insult not as an act of violence.
The meaning being its better to get insulted more than once than take things to court.
The same is true when Jesus says “And if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well.”
Under the law it was forbidden to take a persons outer cloak as it was used for sleeping.
But here Jesus says let the person have it again to avoid going unnecessarily to court.
Likewise with the going the extra mile. All of this is a show of humility and away to avoid unnecessary fights in the legal system.
There are a lot of petty fights in the legal system today.
I heard one statistic that says eighty percent of all the lawyers in the world are in the United States.
People I’ve noticed sue others over the most ridiculous things.
A person orders a coffee at a drive through, Coffee that is expected to be hot. But they spill it hurting themselves and they sue the company from which they bought the coffee.
Someone threatened to sue me one time over the fact that she didn’t like the performance I did (I’m a professional clown and magician). The only person ever to say that to me in thirty years.
I gave her, her money back it was a stupid thing not worth the fight.
This is how we are to be as Christians. We should not get into petty fights that lead us to enter the legal system. It’s not worth it and we sleep better not having to worry what some judge will say.
Think about it.
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’
But I tell you, Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.
And if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well.
If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles.”
Matthew 5:38-41.
Here Jesus is talking about forgiveness in a way.
He talks about turning the other cheek. From what I understand the slap here is the slap with the back of the hand as in an insult not as an act of violence.
The meaning being its better to get insulted more than once than take things to court.
The same is true when Jesus says “And if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well.”
Under the law it was forbidden to take a persons outer cloak as it was used for sleeping.
But here Jesus says let the person have it again to avoid going unnecessarily to court.
Likewise with the going the extra mile. All of this is a show of humility and away to avoid unnecessary fights in the legal system.
There are a lot of petty fights in the legal system today.
I heard one statistic that says eighty percent of all the lawyers in the world are in the United States.
People I’ve noticed sue others over the most ridiculous things.
A person orders a coffee at a drive through, Coffee that is expected to be hot. But they spill it hurting themselves and they sue the company from which they bought the coffee.
Someone threatened to sue me one time over the fact that she didn’t like the performance I did (I’m a professional clown and magician). The only person ever to say that to me in thirty years.
I gave her, her money back it was a stupid thing not worth the fight.
This is how we are to be as Christians. We should not get into petty fights that lead us to enter the legal system. It’s not worth it and we sleep better not having to worry what some judge will say.
Think about it.
Saturday, 15 February 2014
The Beatitudes
The Beatitudes
One commentator said this is King Jesus’s inaugural address. What he expects of his people.
I know its longer than I normally write but please read it and see what you think of it.
The word blessed here means far more than simply happy. It means a distinctive spiritual happiness that comes from knowing Christ and God on a personal level.
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
These are people who know their deficiencies when it comes to living up to the ideals of God. As apposed to those who are proud they are spiritually self sufficient.
One must remember that salvation is a gift offered to us by God it is not earned as many would have us believe.
It is only by admitting our spiritual poverty that we recognize our need of Christ.
Witness the thief on the cross. He admitted he was a thief deserving of his punishment. He turned to Christ admitted his wrong whereupon.
Jesus answered him, “I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise.” Luke 23:43
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”
Here he refers those who mourn over their sin and the sins of others. A true Christian wants everyone everywhere to admit they are a sinner before God and accept the salvation only Jesus gives.
I also believe a true believer will be concerned by sins committed in the name of the church or believers.
It I believe is part of being poor in spirit. We realize we are inadequate before God and can at times be brought to tears.
In our grief Jesus is there to comfort us.
“Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.”
A reference to Psalm 37:11
“But the meek will inherit the land and enjoy great peace.”
This is not so much and attitude toward man but toward God again dealing with humility. Which was a great part of Jesus teaching.
Jesus said
“The greatest among you will be your servant.
For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” Matthew 23:11,12
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.”
This is exactly what it says. Those who hunger and thirst after righteousness both for personal righteousness and the justice of others will see righteousness fulfilled.
One day even the worst criminals, political leaders and others will stand before God. They may have avoided justice here on earth but they will not avoid justice when they stand before God.
And those who hunger after such justice will see this and be satisfied.
“Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.”
If we show mercy we will be shown mercy. Its that simple. You will be treated in kind. Even here on earth.
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.”
The heart is the center of our being our mind, will and emotions. Those of pure heart will see God.
Again it goes back to humility.
We need to daily confess to God how far short we fall from what He expects of us. And we need to do it privately without fan fair. When only God is listening.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.”
To quote Romans
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
Romans 12:18
We should never be contentious. We should not be stirring up trouble. We have the Gospel of Peace to present to the world and we should be doing so in word and in deed.
“Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.
Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”
How we handle persecution shows our fitness for heaven. But we should be very careful when it comes to persecution.
We live in a secular democratic society here in Canada and the United States. We have no right according to Matthew 7:1 to judge anyone. Further more Romans 13:1 tells us “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.” Romans 13:1
They set the laws and as long as they don’t restrict our rights we have no right to try and restrict the rights of others.
All to many Christian’s try to restrict the rights of others because they feel what they are doing is morally reprehensible. Or simply not in line with Christian teaching.
When they try to do this there is a backlash that they call persecution.
It is not. It is Christians being judged the way they are judging.
True persecution come on us when we do everything right. When we simply present the gospel in love and humility to the people around us and they object to the point even of threatening jail or death.
Think about it.
“Now when he saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him,
and he began to teach them, saying:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart,for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers,for they will be called sons of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.
Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”
Matthew 5:1-12One commentator said this is King Jesus’s inaugural address. What he expects of his people.
I know its longer than I normally write but please read it and see what you think of it.
The word blessed here means far more than simply happy. It means a distinctive spiritual happiness that comes from knowing Christ and God on a personal level.
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
These are people who know their deficiencies when it comes to living up to the ideals of God. As apposed to those who are proud they are spiritually self sufficient.
One must remember that salvation is a gift offered to us by God it is not earned as many would have us believe.
It is only by admitting our spiritual poverty that we recognize our need of Christ.
Witness the thief on the cross. He admitted he was a thief deserving of his punishment. He turned to Christ admitted his wrong whereupon.
Jesus answered him, “I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise.” Luke 23:43
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”
Here he refers those who mourn over their sin and the sins of others. A true Christian wants everyone everywhere to admit they are a sinner before God and accept the salvation only Jesus gives.
I also believe a true believer will be concerned by sins committed in the name of the church or believers.
It I believe is part of being poor in spirit. We realize we are inadequate before God and can at times be brought to tears.
In our grief Jesus is there to comfort us.
“Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.”
A reference to Psalm 37:11
“But the meek will inherit the land and enjoy great peace.”
This is not so much and attitude toward man but toward God again dealing with humility. Which was a great part of Jesus teaching.
Jesus said
“The greatest among you will be your servant.
For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” Matthew 23:11,12
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.”
This is exactly what it says. Those who hunger and thirst after righteousness both for personal righteousness and the justice of others will see righteousness fulfilled.
One day even the worst criminals, political leaders and others will stand before God. They may have avoided justice here on earth but they will not avoid justice when they stand before God.
And those who hunger after such justice will see this and be satisfied.
“Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.”
If we show mercy we will be shown mercy. Its that simple. You will be treated in kind. Even here on earth.
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.”
The heart is the center of our being our mind, will and emotions. Those of pure heart will see God.
Again it goes back to humility.
We need to daily confess to God how far short we fall from what He expects of us. And we need to do it privately without fan fair. When only God is listening.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.”
To quote Romans
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
Romans 12:18
We should never be contentious. We should not be stirring up trouble. We have the Gospel of Peace to present to the world and we should be doing so in word and in deed.
“Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.
Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”
How we handle persecution shows our fitness for heaven. But we should be very careful when it comes to persecution.
We live in a secular democratic society here in Canada and the United States. We have no right according to Matthew 7:1 to judge anyone. Further more Romans 13:1 tells us “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.” Romans 13:1
They set the laws and as long as they don’t restrict our rights we have no right to try and restrict the rights of others.
All to many Christian’s try to restrict the rights of others because they feel what they are doing is morally reprehensible. Or simply not in line with Christian teaching.
When they try to do this there is a backlash that they call persecution.
It is not. It is Christians being judged the way they are judging.
True persecution come on us when we do everything right. When we simply present the gospel in love and humility to the people around us and they object to the point even of threatening jail or death.
Think about it.
Friday, 14 February 2014
A Thought for Valentines Day
A Thought for Valentines Day
“If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.
If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.
If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails.”
1 Corinthians 13:1-8a
Today is Valentines day. The day we here in North America celebrate love. But just what is love? It can’t really be quantified in terms of a mathematical notation. It can’t be seen or heard. Then what is love?
The apostle Paul writing to the Corinthians wrote what has to be the most eloquent and most accurate description of love ever written,
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails."
All too many people say they love but and a “but”. They make their love conditional what the recipient of that love does.
Jesus when replying to a question from the Sadducee's and Pharisees about what was the most important law said,
Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment.
And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbour as yourself.’
All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
Matthew 22:37-40.
Earlier in Matthew Jesus says,
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbour and hate your enemy.’
But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.
If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that?
And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?
Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect."
Matthew 5:43-48
To love is the highest ideal of Christianity. As a result we cannot put any restrictions on it.
Be it God, our spouse, our family members, friends, or even our enemies Jesus calls us to love them unconditionally.
The Apostle Paul tells us,
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
Romans 12:18.
Paul wrote those words because he knew that unless we live at peace with our fellow man the gospel cannot be preached effectively.
In order to live at peace with our fellow man we must first and foremost love all those around us and,
"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails."
Think about it.
“If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.
If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.
If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails.”
1 Corinthians 13:1-8a
Today is Valentines day. The day we here in North America celebrate love. But just what is love? It can’t really be quantified in terms of a mathematical notation. It can’t be seen or heard. Then what is love?
The apostle Paul writing to the Corinthians wrote what has to be the most eloquent and most accurate description of love ever written,
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails."
All too many people say they love but and a “but”. They make their love conditional what the recipient of that love does.
Jesus when replying to a question from the Sadducee's and Pharisees about what was the most important law said,
Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment.
And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbour as yourself.’
All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
Matthew 22:37-40.
Earlier in Matthew Jesus says,
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbour and hate your enemy.’
But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.
If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that?
And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?
Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect."
Matthew 5:43-48
To love is the highest ideal of Christianity. As a result we cannot put any restrictions on it.
Be it God, our spouse, our family members, friends, or even our enemies Jesus calls us to love them unconditionally.
The Apostle Paul tells us,
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
Romans 12:18.
Paul wrote those words because he knew that unless we live at peace with our fellow man the gospel cannot be preached effectively.
In order to live at peace with our fellow man we must first and foremost love all those around us and,
"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails."
Think about it.
Thursday, 13 February 2014
Jesus
Jesus
“Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people.
News about him spread all over Syria, and people brought to him all who were ill with various diseases, those suffering severe pain, the demon-possessed, those having seizures, and the paralyzed, and he healed them.
Large crowds from Galilee, the Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judea and the region across the Jordan followed him.”
Matthew 4:23-25
Here is something that sceptics of the Jesus can’t to my satisfaction explain.
Jesus had a three fold ministry. He taught, he preached and he healed the sick. The bible writers do not hide the fact that Jesus was someone described as teaching with authority.
His ministry took place in the synagogues on the Sabbath and in the open air during the rest of the week. He never hid for his opponents what he was saying. And meany people came to believe in him during his life time on this earth.
As for the miraculous the healing of the sick and casting out demons. If these things were untrue then the writers of the gospels are potentially the biggest liars in history.
Such lies were they exposed would most definitely have harmed the cause of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
It therefore stands to reason that they were real. That the men relaying the information had hard and fast facts that they were true.
Claims of who Jesus was can also be found in some secular documents people who were not necessarily friendly to the cause of Christianity
The earliest non-Christian reports were made by the Jews. Flavius Josephus, who lived until 98 A.D., was a romanized Jewish historian. He wrote books on Jewish history for the Roman people. In his book, Jewish Antiquities, he made references to Jesus. In one reference he wrote:
“About this time arose Jesus, a wise man, who did good deeds and whose virtues were recognized. And many Jews and people of other nations became his disciples.
Pilate condemned him to be crucified and to die. However, those who became his disciples preached his doctrine. They related that he had appeared to them three days after his crucifixion and that he was alive. Perhaps he was the Messiah in connection with whom the prophets foretold wonders. [Josephus, Jewish Antiquities, XVIII 3.2]
I believe we can only make one conclusion as to who Jesus is.
Jesus is the Son of God.
Jesus came to this earth to show all people everywhere that God loves them.
He showed this love by giving the ultimate price in human terms and going to the cross. Not only that but he did in fact raise from the dead and ascended to heaven where he sits at the right hand of God.
A place we will all one day meet him either as Saviour or Judge.
Think about it.
“Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people.
News about him spread all over Syria, and people brought to him all who were ill with various diseases, those suffering severe pain, the demon-possessed, those having seizures, and the paralyzed, and he healed them.
Large crowds from Galilee, the Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judea and the region across the Jordan followed him.”
Matthew 4:23-25
Here is something that sceptics of the Jesus can’t to my satisfaction explain.
Jesus had a three fold ministry. He taught, he preached and he healed the sick. The bible writers do not hide the fact that Jesus was someone described as teaching with authority.
His ministry took place in the synagogues on the Sabbath and in the open air during the rest of the week. He never hid for his opponents what he was saying. And meany people came to believe in him during his life time on this earth.
As for the miraculous the healing of the sick and casting out demons. If these things were untrue then the writers of the gospels are potentially the biggest liars in history.
Such lies were they exposed would most definitely have harmed the cause of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
It therefore stands to reason that they were real. That the men relaying the information had hard and fast facts that they were true.
Claims of who Jesus was can also be found in some secular documents people who were not necessarily friendly to the cause of Christianity
The earliest non-Christian reports were made by the Jews. Flavius Josephus, who lived until 98 A.D., was a romanized Jewish historian. He wrote books on Jewish history for the Roman people. In his book, Jewish Antiquities, he made references to Jesus. In one reference he wrote:
“About this time arose Jesus, a wise man, who did good deeds and whose virtues were recognized. And many Jews and people of other nations became his disciples.
Pilate condemned him to be crucified and to die. However, those who became his disciples preached his doctrine. They related that he had appeared to them three days after his crucifixion and that he was alive. Perhaps he was the Messiah in connection with whom the prophets foretold wonders. [Josephus, Jewish Antiquities, XVIII 3.2]
I believe we can only make one conclusion as to who Jesus is.
Jesus is the Son of God.
Jesus came to this earth to show all people everywhere that God loves them.
He showed this love by giving the ultimate price in human terms and going to the cross. Not only that but he did in fact raise from the dead and ascended to heaven where he sits at the right hand of God.
A place we will all one day meet him either as Saviour or Judge.
Think about it.
Wednesday, 12 February 2014
The First Disciples
The first disciples
“As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.”
At once they left their nets and followed him.
Going on from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John. They were in a boat with their father Zebedee, preparing their nets. Jesus called them, and immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him.”
Matthew 4:18-22
Jesus here calls his first disciples. It should be noted here that they were Jewish men and thus believers in the one true God. Jesus was not calling non-believers to be part of his ministry.
Today Jesus does the same thing to those who truly believe in him.
Our churches are filled with believers. Men and women who have given their lives over to Jesus. People who worship God in spirit and in truth.
But I wonder how many of them would when called by God to do His work, do as Peter, Andrew, James and John did?
How many people who profess to be true followers of Christ would simply lay down their nets so to speak and go into full time ministry?
There’s an older couple at our church who to me exemplify what we should be willing to do.
In their youth Gerry and Virginia felt called to be missionaries in Mexico. They left the comforts of Canada to minister down there.
To support themselves in Mexico they even had to take on jobs in Mexico. Yet they ministered faithfully for years.
God blessed them as a result and many souls were won for Christ.
I believe Christ calls us all to minister in whatever way we can, be that simply witnessing to those next door, our family and friends or on mission fields around the world. Even on the internet.
There are always places we can minister for our Lord. All we have to do is pray about it. Asking God to direct our paths. Then get off our knees and do what God wants us to do.
Remembering always that God will not ask you to do what you are not capable of doing.
Are you dear Christian willing to do your best for God.
To the none-believer I would ask this.
Why would men like Peter, Andrew, and James, men that were earning a good living give it all up and follow Jesus?
Not only did that happen but they stayed true to him after his death.
They witnessed the resurrection of Jesus and his ascension to heaven proclaiming it to the world around them.
These men were extremely foolish because to say someone rose from the dead is if you think about it counter productive to the cause you are presenting. Or they were completely truthful.
There is no middle ground.
What do you think.
Think about it.
“As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.”
At once they left their nets and followed him.
Going on from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John. They were in a boat with their father Zebedee, preparing their nets. Jesus called them, and immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him.”
Matthew 4:18-22
Jesus here calls his first disciples. It should be noted here that they were Jewish men and thus believers in the one true God. Jesus was not calling non-believers to be part of his ministry.
Today Jesus does the same thing to those who truly believe in him.
Our churches are filled with believers. Men and women who have given their lives over to Jesus. People who worship God in spirit and in truth.
But I wonder how many of them would when called by God to do His work, do as Peter, Andrew, James and John did?
How many people who profess to be true followers of Christ would simply lay down their nets so to speak and go into full time ministry?
There’s an older couple at our church who to me exemplify what we should be willing to do.
In their youth Gerry and Virginia felt called to be missionaries in Mexico. They left the comforts of Canada to minister down there.
To support themselves in Mexico they even had to take on jobs in Mexico. Yet they ministered faithfully for years.
God blessed them as a result and many souls were won for Christ.
I believe Christ calls us all to minister in whatever way we can, be that simply witnessing to those next door, our family and friends or on mission fields around the world. Even on the internet.
There are always places we can minister for our Lord. All we have to do is pray about it. Asking God to direct our paths. Then get off our knees and do what God wants us to do.
Remembering always that God will not ask you to do what you are not capable of doing.
Are you dear Christian willing to do your best for God.
To the none-believer I would ask this.
Why would men like Peter, Andrew, and James, men that were earning a good living give it all up and follow Jesus?
Not only did that happen but they stayed true to him after his death.
They witnessed the resurrection of Jesus and his ascension to heaven proclaiming it to the world around them.
These men were extremely foolish because to say someone rose from the dead is if you think about it counter productive to the cause you are presenting. Or they were completely truthful.
There is no middle ground.
What do you think.
Think about it.
Tuesday, 11 February 2014
Jesus begins his ministry
Jesus begins his ministry
“When Jesus heard that John had been put in prison, he returned to Galilee.
Leaving Nazareth, he went and lived in Capernaum, which was by the lake in the area of Zebulun and Naphtali— to fulfill what was said through the prophet Isaiah:
“Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, the way to the sea, along the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles— the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.”
From that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.”
Matthew 4:12-17
John the Baptist has just been put in prison. So Jesus leaves Nazareth and went to live in Capernaum where he would eventually use the house of Peter as his base.
The area referred to as Zabulun ans Naphtali in the time of Jesus was seen to be an area in spiritual darkness.
The reason seems to have been because of the large number of gentiles that lived there. Although some say it was also because of the distance from Jerusalem.
The distance being so far away that the religious influence of Jerusalem had little effect.
Matthew points out that Jesus in moving into this area also fulfilled a prophesy from Isaiah who states,
“Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will honor Galilee of the Gentiles, by the way of the sea, along the Jordan—
The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.”
Isaiah 9:1,2.
Here we also see a prophesy about the Messiah that point to Him reaching out to the gentiles. Taking Gods light to non Jews.
Matthew here also points out that the message of Jesus is also the message John was preaching on of repentance.
This is a key theme of the Bible. The need of the individual to repent for their sins.
The Bible makes it clear when Paul writes to the Romans,
“for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”
Romans 3:23.
The apostle John goes on to say,
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
1John 1:9.
John in his gospel also quotes Jesus as saying,
“Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.”
John 3:14-18.
In Jesus we have a clear cut decision to make. To follow him and have eternal life or to reject him and perish.
Jesus leaves that decision up to you.
Where do you stand?
“When Jesus heard that John had been put in prison, he returned to Galilee.
Leaving Nazareth, he went and lived in Capernaum, which was by the lake in the area of Zebulun and Naphtali— to fulfill what was said through the prophet Isaiah:
“Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, the way to the sea, along the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles— the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.”
From that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.”
Matthew 4:12-17
John the Baptist has just been put in prison. So Jesus leaves Nazareth and went to live in Capernaum where he would eventually use the house of Peter as his base.
The area referred to as Zabulun ans Naphtali in the time of Jesus was seen to be an area in spiritual darkness.
The reason seems to have been because of the large number of gentiles that lived there. Although some say it was also because of the distance from Jerusalem.
The distance being so far away that the religious influence of Jerusalem had little effect.
Matthew points out that Jesus in moving into this area also fulfilled a prophesy from Isaiah who states,
“Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will honor Galilee of the Gentiles, by the way of the sea, along the Jordan—
The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.”
Isaiah 9:1,2.
Here we also see a prophesy about the Messiah that point to Him reaching out to the gentiles. Taking Gods light to non Jews.
Matthew here also points out that the message of Jesus is also the message John was preaching on of repentance.
This is a key theme of the Bible. The need of the individual to repent for their sins.
The Bible makes it clear when Paul writes to the Romans,
“for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”
Romans 3:23.
The apostle John goes on to say,
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
1John 1:9.
John in his gospel also quotes Jesus as saying,
“Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.”
John 3:14-18.
In Jesus we have a clear cut decision to make. To follow him and have eternal life or to reject him and perish.
Jesus leaves that decision up to you.
Where do you stand?
Monday, 10 February 2014
Jesus is Tempted
Jesus is Tempted.
“Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil.
After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry.
The tempter came to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.”
Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’’”
Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple.
“If you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down. For it is written: “ ‘He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’’”
Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’’”
Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor.
“All this I will give you,” he said, “if you will bow down and worship me.”
Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’’”
Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him.”
Matthew 4:1-11
The temptations of Jesus were very real not just symbolic. And we must remember that while Jesus was God. While on earth he functioned as nothing less than man. Thus he went through the temptations as a man and he triumphed over them.
His first temptation was to use his supernatural power for himself. Jesus was not willing to do so. Nor would he use his power to win the masses over as if by a type of witch craft.
When Jesus used his power it was to help the individual. It proved he was from God but it left the decision about who he was still in the hands of those who seen what he did.
The second temptation is about showing how God would protect Jesus if he threw himself off a heigh point. Satan tell him that God would send his angels to catch him. Thus very publicly showing people his supernatural link with God.
Jesus refused quoting scripture “Do not put the Lord your God to the test.” Jesus was not going to win people by showing the people this supernatural connection with God.
Those who come to Christ. Those who come to God must come in faith. The writer of Hebrews noting,
“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.”
Hebrews 11:6
The third temptation was to bow down and worship Satan. Jesus had no inclination to compromise with Satan. He rebukes him again by quoting scripture,
Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’’”
Jesus refused to Sin no matter what the circumstance. Thus after the third temptation Satan left him and Jesus would begin his ministry.
“Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil.
After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry.
The tempter came to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.”
Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’’”
Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple.
“If you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down. For it is written: “ ‘He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’’”
Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’’”
Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor.
“All this I will give you,” he said, “if you will bow down and worship me.”
Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’’”
Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him.”
Matthew 4:1-11
The temptations of Jesus were very real not just symbolic. And we must remember that while Jesus was God. While on earth he functioned as nothing less than man. Thus he went through the temptations as a man and he triumphed over them.
His first temptation was to use his supernatural power for himself. Jesus was not willing to do so. Nor would he use his power to win the masses over as if by a type of witch craft.
When Jesus used his power it was to help the individual. It proved he was from God but it left the decision about who he was still in the hands of those who seen what he did.
The second temptation is about showing how God would protect Jesus if he threw himself off a heigh point. Satan tell him that God would send his angels to catch him. Thus very publicly showing people his supernatural link with God.
Jesus refused quoting scripture “Do not put the Lord your God to the test.” Jesus was not going to win people by showing the people this supernatural connection with God.
Those who come to Christ. Those who come to God must come in faith. The writer of Hebrews noting,
“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.”
Hebrews 11:6
The third temptation was to bow down and worship Satan. Jesus had no inclination to compromise with Satan. He rebukes him again by quoting scripture,
Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’’”
Jesus refused to Sin no matter what the circumstance. Thus after the third temptation Satan left him and Jesus would begin his ministry.
Sunday, 9 February 2014
The Baptism of Jesus
The Baptism of Jesus
“Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John.
But John tried to deter him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?”
Jesus replied, “Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.” Then John consented.
As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting on him.
And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”
Matthew 3:13-17
This is a seminal moment in the life of Jesus. It is the start of his Messianic ministry.
The baptism showed that he was consecrated to God something that was underscored by the decent of the Holy Spirit and a voice from heaven saying, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”
Through baptism Jesus identifies with mankind and although Jesus did not have any need of repentance. He identifies with mankind’s sin and failure and becomes the substitute for our sins.
Dear reader have you let Jesus into your life? Have you confessed your sins to him and let him forgive your sins?
Think about it.
“Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John.
But John tried to deter him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?”
Jesus replied, “Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.” Then John consented.
As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting on him.
And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”
Matthew 3:13-17
This is a seminal moment in the life of Jesus. It is the start of his Messianic ministry.
The baptism showed that he was consecrated to God something that was underscored by the decent of the Holy Spirit and a voice from heaven saying, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”
Through baptism Jesus identifies with mankind and although Jesus did not have any need of repentance. He identifies with mankind’s sin and failure and becomes the substitute for our sins.
Dear reader have you let Jesus into your life? Have you confessed your sins to him and let him forgive your sins?
Think about it.
Saturday, 8 February 2014
John the Baptist Preaches Repentance
John the Baptist preaches Repentance
"In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the Desert of Judea
and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.”
This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah: “A voice of one calling in the desert, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.’ ”
John’s clothes were made of camel’s hair, and he had a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey.
People went out to him from Jerusalem and all Judea and the whole region of the Jordan.
Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River.
But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to where he was baptizing, he said to them: “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath?
Produce fruit in keeping with repentance.
And do not think you can say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham.
The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.
“I baptize you with water for repentance. But after me will come one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not fit to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.
His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing floor, gathering his wheat into the barn and burning up the chaff with unquenchable fire.”
Matthew 3:1-12
Here we have John the Baptist the for runner of Jesus.
He must have looked quite the eccentric if you think about it to quote Matthew “John’s clothes were made of camel’s hair, and he had a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey.”
Here was this man boldly calling people to repentance. To truly turn their lives around.
John minces no words no matter who was there calling to the scribes and Pharisees to repent. Matthew noting,
“But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to where he was baptizing, he said to them: “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath?
Produce fruit in keeping with repentance.”
John was what we would call a fundamentalist. He saw the corruption in the teachers of the law and he called them out on it. He called them to turn away from wrong teaching and turn back to God in true repentance and produce good fruit.
John also tells of the coming of Christ. Matthew quoting John as saying,
“I baptize you with water for repentance. But after me will come one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not fit to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing floor, gathering his wheat into the barn and burning up the chaff with unquenchable fire.”
John’s call is as relevant today as it was back then.
The call of Jesus is to bring all to repentance to turn from sin and to Christ. Who will forgive our sin and allow us to enter heaven.
The apostle John writing,
If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
1John 1:8,9.
We like the people in the time of John the Baptist have a choice. To confess our sins and as John the Baptist said, “Produce fruit in keeping with repentance.”
Think about it.
"In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the Desert of Judea
and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.”
This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah: “A voice of one calling in the desert, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.’ ”
John’s clothes were made of camel’s hair, and he had a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey.
People went out to him from Jerusalem and all Judea and the whole region of the Jordan.
Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River.
But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to where he was baptizing, he said to them: “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath?
Produce fruit in keeping with repentance.
And do not think you can say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham.
The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.
“I baptize you with water for repentance. But after me will come one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not fit to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.
His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing floor, gathering his wheat into the barn and burning up the chaff with unquenchable fire.”
Matthew 3:1-12
Here we have John the Baptist the for runner of Jesus.
He must have looked quite the eccentric if you think about it to quote Matthew “John’s clothes were made of camel’s hair, and he had a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey.”
Here was this man boldly calling people to repentance. To truly turn their lives around.
John minces no words no matter who was there calling to the scribes and Pharisees to repent. Matthew noting,
“But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to where he was baptizing, he said to them: “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath?
Produce fruit in keeping with repentance.”
John was what we would call a fundamentalist. He saw the corruption in the teachers of the law and he called them out on it. He called them to turn away from wrong teaching and turn back to God in true repentance and produce good fruit.
John also tells of the coming of Christ. Matthew quoting John as saying,
“I baptize you with water for repentance. But after me will come one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not fit to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing floor, gathering his wheat into the barn and burning up the chaff with unquenchable fire.”
John’s call is as relevant today as it was back then.
The call of Jesus is to bring all to repentance to turn from sin and to Christ. Who will forgive our sin and allow us to enter heaven.
The apostle John writing,
If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
1John 1:8,9.
We like the people in the time of John the Baptist have a choice. To confess our sins and as John the Baptist said, “Produce fruit in keeping with repentance.”
Think about it.
Friday, 7 February 2014
The Family Returns to Nazareth
The family returns to Nazareth
“After Herod died, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt
and said, “Get up, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who were trying to take the child’s life are dead.”
So he got up, took the child and his mother and went to the land of Israel.
But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning in Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. Having been warned in a dream, he withdrew to the district of Galilee, and he went and lived in a town called Nazareth. So was fulfilled what was said through the prophets: “He will be called a Nazarene.”
Matthew 2:19-23
Joseph in his wisdom chose to move back to Israel but away from any potential trouble.
Archelaus the son of Herod was in power and was exceptionally tyrannical so much so he was deposed after only ten years (4BC-6AD) and Judea became a Roman province ruled by governors appointed by the emperor.
Thus the family settled in Nazareth a small nondescript town where Jesus could grow in peace.
I believe Jesus needed that time of peace in his life to mature. To study the scriptures which I’m sure he did as Mary and Joseph were devout people.
Additionally in other gospels we know that Jesus as a teenager was found in the temple talking to the teaches of his day and they were amazed at his knowledge Luke 2:44-47.
In Luke there is an interesting note. When his parents found Jesus he said,
“Why were you searching for me?” he asked. “Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house?”
But they did not understand what he was saying to them.
Then he went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. But his mother treasured all these things in her heart.
And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men”
Luke 2:49-52.
After all his parents had gone through they still didn’t fully understand who he was. It would me much later that they would fully understand.
Also of note is that while Jesus understood his calling he chose to be obedient to his earthly parents.
And Luke tells us “Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men”.
Nazareth this tiny village was where Jesus grew into the great man he would become. Going forth to quite literally change the world.
“After Herod died, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt
and said, “Get up, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who were trying to take the child’s life are dead.”
So he got up, took the child and his mother and went to the land of Israel.
But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning in Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. Having been warned in a dream, he withdrew to the district of Galilee, and he went and lived in a town called Nazareth. So was fulfilled what was said through the prophets: “He will be called a Nazarene.”
Matthew 2:19-23
Joseph in his wisdom chose to move back to Israel but away from any potential trouble.
Archelaus the son of Herod was in power and was exceptionally tyrannical so much so he was deposed after only ten years (4BC-6AD) and Judea became a Roman province ruled by governors appointed by the emperor.
Thus the family settled in Nazareth a small nondescript town where Jesus could grow in peace.
I believe Jesus needed that time of peace in his life to mature. To study the scriptures which I’m sure he did as Mary and Joseph were devout people.
Additionally in other gospels we know that Jesus as a teenager was found in the temple talking to the teaches of his day and they were amazed at his knowledge Luke 2:44-47.
In Luke there is an interesting note. When his parents found Jesus he said,
“Why were you searching for me?” he asked. “Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house?”
But they did not understand what he was saying to them.
Then he went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. But his mother treasured all these things in her heart.
And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men”
Luke 2:49-52.
After all his parents had gone through they still didn’t fully understand who he was. It would me much later that they would fully understand.
Also of note is that while Jesus understood his calling he chose to be obedient to his earthly parents.
And Luke tells us “Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men”.
Nazareth this tiny village was where Jesus grew into the great man he would become. Going forth to quite literally change the world.
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