Is Sacrifice possible for us? We began this week highlighting the concept of First World Problems. But what does sacrifice look like in the first world? What does sacrifice look like for me, living in Canada in the year 2015? The reality is that we live in an amazing place. Because of that, we have a…
What would we give up for the cause? “…for my sake…” (19:29) In verse 29 of Matthew 19, Jesus begins to wrap up an entire discussion on sacrifice. He issues a statement that should be taken as truth for any follower of Jesus. Jesus highlights three fundamental pieces to our lives; (1) home, (2) family and (3) work. “…everyone…
“…all things are possible.” (19:26) This week, we’ve been exploring Matthew 19 in references to riches and sacrifice. Yesterday, we left the disciples in shock, begging the question, “Who then can be saved?” (19:25) As is always the case, just when the disciples are in total bewilderment, we see Jesus’ effective ability to teach, widening…
“…someone who is rich…” (19:23) In Matthew 19, we read that Jesus and His disciples were in the region of Judea. While there, a wealthy young man brought an opportunity for Jesus to teach His disciples (and us) some valuable lessons on riches and sacrifice. Jesus says to his disciples, “…it is hard for someone who…
Are these really problems? According to Google, the First World can be defined as “the industrialized capitalist countries of western Europe, North America, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand.” Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary gives a few definitions: “the highly developed industrialized nations often considered the westernized countries of the world,” “the countries of the world that have many industries and relatively…
If you’ve spent any time in a church, you’ve heard Matthew 18 thrown out. Often during a challenging situation where there has been conflict. The struggle is that rarely do Christians use Jesus’ teaching correctly, and sometimes it’s used inappropriately. This can make situations worse, and put further stress on relationships.
“…whatever you bind on earth…” (18:18) We’re continuing our week-long discussion on relationships from Matthew 18. In verse 18, Jesus begins to centre in on the real heart of this discussion. Jesus is about to connect the earthly church principles with the heavenly Father’s oversight. A few weeks ago, we read that Jesus offered these very same…
“If they still refuse…” (Matthew 18:17) Photo Credit: Talk to the hand via photopin This week we’ve discussed relationships, specifically how they relate to Matthew 18. Feel free to scroll to the bottom of this post to read earlier posts. Verse 17 should not be taken lightly. We read, “If they still refuse…” (18:17) Unfortunately,…
And Hopefully, How It Ends. It begins in Matthew 18:15. This verse opens up with, “If your brother or sister sins…” After reading those words, you may be assuming that this is going to be a finger-pointing post. Perhaps, you’ve already thought to yourself, “Here we go. Another pastor writing an article of forced conviction.“ I assure you, this is…
Changing the Way We Read Matthew 18. I did a bit of Googling last week. You see, our church is going through a series in the Gospel of Matthew. This past Sunday, we hit Matthew 18. So I did what any good pastor would do; I Googled! I Googled “Matthew 18“. First off, I found…
10 Questions for Reflection From Mt. 17 The Transfiguration: Matthew 17:1-9 This week, we’ve been working through a post-series on Matthew 17:1-9. Today, we end this series with some questions for personal or group reflection. Scroll to the bottom of this post to read previous posts. 10 Questions for Reflection 1. What were your initial thoughts, after…
The Mountaintop Descent (Mt. 17:7-9) This week, we’ve been working through a post-series on Matthew 17:1-9. Which mountaintop is Christ calling us to climb? Despite the fear and anxiety, is the view from the mountaintop worth it? Are we ready for the experience He’s prepared for us? “Don’t be afraid.” (17:7) After experiencing the transfiguration at the…