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 - August 9, 2020
Worthy of the Nations
It seems like we have been here before. Crowds, a desolate place, Jesus healing, and a ridiculously inadequate supply of bread and fish. But there is more here than meets our eyes. Besides, the disciples do not seem to recognize the setting as the same (15:33). The context is not a mere string of unrelated pearls. We still hear the words echoing in our ears, “Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table” (15:27). Now we follow Jesus and His disciples into Galilee’s Decapolis—Gentile territory. Not surprisingly, we witness Jesus expressing moving compassion upon people outside of His covenant promises. Meek sufferers seeking mercy come to Jesus. He reveals Himself as God, not only of the Jews, but of the Gentiles also. Christ miraculously multiplies “crumbs” for them. His provision is inexhaustible—He satisfies the seeking heart. Even His “crumbs” are colossal. This is a story of beautiful compassion and mercy to the undeserving. It is a preview of Christ as the humble Savior of the world. The scene cries, “Let the nations be satisfied in Christ! For He is worthy!” Indeed, none are deserving but Christ is worthy of the nations.
Scripture References: Matthew 15:29-39
