Daily Bible Reading - September 2020 God's Life-Giving Word of WisdomSample

September 14

Introduction

The Pharisees continue to seek to trap Jesus by asking about divorce. People bring their children to Jesus for a blessing, but the disciples rebuke them.

Scripture Reading 

Matthew 19:1-15

Today’s Key Verse: Matthew 19:14

Jesus said, “Let the children come to me and do not stop them, because the Kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”

Reflect

In seeking to test Jesus, the Pharisees question Jesus about divorce based on the Law outlined in Deuteronomy 24:1-4, which deals with conventional patriarchal marriage. The Law allows the husband to rule over his wife, and divorce is male initiated. In response, Jesus speaks of marriage as established by the Creator (verses 4-6). How does Jesus respond (verses 8, 9) to the question posed by the Pharisees in verse 7? Reread verses 13-15. Why do you suppose the disciples scolded the people who brought the children to Jesus? How did Jesus respond? Recall the reading from September 12 where Jesus said, “whoever welcomes in my name one such child as this, welcomes me” (Matthew 18:5). In what ways does your community of faith welcome all children of God? 

Pray

Lord Jesus, you call us your children and call us to live in community, caring for one another. In your name, teach me to reach out and welcome in love all whom I will encounter today. Amen.

Prayer Concern

Parents and guardians of children.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Matthew 19:16-30: Jesus urges a rich young man to give away his possessions.