We are a forgetful people in a land of distractions. Our minds are easily captivated by trivial and temporary inducements. New things quickly become old. In our mind’s eye even glory tends to fade and warnings tend to wane. It is no wonder that we who are invisibly united to Christ and visibly in and not of this world live in constant need of renewal. And what is true for the Christian is true for the church. This is a series that seeks to renew the mind of the church. Not so much by reviewing what she is called to do as much as what she is called. As with the Christian so with church, her God-given identity defines her. We who are the church are a people for God and none other.
Before we return to the book of Romans, we will be looking at the what scripture says about the Church, in its nature, how she expresses herself in song, and how the church cares and equips for its members.
The messages from this series can be found here:
Manny Pereira - December 15, 2019
Scandalous Surprise
The Messiah has been manifested. His words and works have testified to His identity and trustworthiness. He has just finished preparing His Twelve for a mission that will be met with horrific rejection. But this only hints at what Jesus Himself will experience. Jesus as “the Christ” is beginning to look like a scandal. Few will understand. Few will perceive. So the text directs us to a remarkable illustration that demonstrates exactly what Jesus has just taught. It is all very tragic. This message marks the beginning of a new section in Matthew that highlights Israel’s unbelief. With rich irony, it begins with Israel’s greatest prophet, John the Baptist. It is an episode that is sovereignly used to interpret what otherwise appears as a scandalous surprise.
Scripture References: Matthew 11:1-6
