Christ as King: A Study in MatthewSample

What does it say?

Jesus answered the Pharisees’ accusations by proclaiming He is Lord of the Sabbath. He condemned the religious leaders’ unbelief but gave them the sign of Jonah.

What does it mean?

Just as Isaiah foretold (42:1-4), Jesus was loving, meek, and gentle as He healed and delivered people by the power of God’s Spirit. The needy and hopeless flocked to Him while the Jewish leaders clung to the formality of religious traditions, rejected Him as Messiah, and plotted to kill Him. Jesus’ actions on the Sabbath demonstrated that compassion takes precedence over traditional rules. Each person was responsible for making a decision concerning Jesus for which they will be held accountable. There is hope for all who trust Jesus as Savior because He is Lord over all.

How should I respond?

What does the name of Jesus mean to you? Jesus still has power over the physical and supernatural realms, and He has power over all that concerns you. That wonderful name is the source of hope to all who recognize Jesus as the Savior and come to Him in faith. Hope in Him and assurance of final justice have a transformative effect on your daily mindset and behavior. How will you answer life’s ultimate question: What decision have you made concerning Jesus? Tell Him you recognize His Lordship over you and everything in your life, yield to Him, and watch in awe as He strengthens you in hope.