Month: December 2021

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BSF Study Questions Matthew Lesson 17, Day 3: Matthew 16:13-16

by atozmom, posted in BSF Matthew 2021/2022

SUMMARY OF MATTHEW 16:13-16

When Jesus came to Caesarea Philippi, he asked, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?” Some say John the Baptist, Elijah, or Jeremiah. When he asked the disciples who they say he is, Simon Peter says he is Christ, the Son of the living God.

BSF Study Questions Matthew Lesson 17, Day 3: Matthew 16:13-16

6) “Who do the people say the Son of Man is?” “Who do you say I am?” Jesus wants to know if his disciples believe he is Christ.

7a) Some say John the Baptist, Elijah, or Jeremiah or another prophet.

b) Some say he is just another prophet for the most part. Some believe he is Christ, the Son of God. Others believe he never existed at all. Some say he was just an ordinary man.

8a) “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” This answer revealed his faith in Jesus.

b) It’s the crux of Christianity, the way to eternal life, and the way to God and heaven. It’s what forgives us our sins.

c) The same way Peter did!

Conclusions BSF Study Questions Matthew Lesson 17, Day 3: Matthew 16:13-16

I love how Jesus really wanted to know who his disciples thought he was, but framed it with what others thought first. I also love how Peter is the first to answer.

Learn more about Peter with this great read!

End Notes BSF Study Questions Matthew Lesson 17, Day 3: Matthew 16:13-16

map of Caesarea Philippi www.atozmomm.comCaesarea Philippi is a region in Judea that is north of Galilee and that has more Gentiles than Jews. Jesus is most likely looking for a respite from the crowds. It gives Jesus a chance to teach his disciples.

“Who do you say I am?” is the most important question on earth.

Peter most likely speaks for all of the disciples. Now, they truly understand who Jesus is, that he is God, and what his mission is.

Jesus knew they were beginning to understand the Truth, but for them to go spiritually deeper, they had to confess who he was.

Peter’s confession affirms the disciples have reached a new level of faith.

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BSF Study Questions Matthew Lesson 17, Day 2: Matthew 16:1-12

by atozmom, posted in BSF Matthew 2021/2022

SUMMARY OF MATTHEW 16:1-12

The Pharisees and Sadducees demanded a sign from Jesus. Jesus replied that they say it will be stormy if the sky is red and overcast. He says they can interpret the skies but not the signs of the times. Only a wicked adulterous generaion looks for miraculous signs, and all they will be given is the sign of Jonah.

The disciples forgot to bring bread, so Jesus told them to be on guard against the yeast of the Pharisees and the Sadducees. Jesus realizes they are confused and says they have little faith because they don’t remember the five loaves for the five thousand or the seven loaves for the four thousand. He wonders why they did not understand he was using yeast as a metaphor, and that he meant to beware the teaching of the Pharisees and the Sadducees.

BSF Study Questions Matthew Lesson 17, Day 2: Matthew 16:1-12

3a) A sign from heaven in order to test Jesus’s identity.

b) Jesus replied that they say it will be stormy if the sky is red and overcast. He says they can interpret the skies but not the signs of the times. Only a wicked adulterous generaion looks for miraculous signs, and all they will be given is the sign of Jonah. It revealed that they had wicked hearts.

c) Jesus is saying he is sufficient

4a) To beware the teaching (yeast) of the Pharisees and Sadducees

b) The disciples were focused on the literal bread because they had just commented that they had forgotten bread to eat. They had no idea what Jesus was talking about because of this.

c) Jesus realizes they are confused and says they have little faith because they don’t remember the five loaves for the five thousand or the seven loaves for the four thousand. He wonders why they did not understand he was using yeast as a metaphor, and that he meant to beware the teaching of the Pharisees and the Sadducees. He explains what he meant to them.

5) We, like the disciples, are too focused on the literal meaning that we can miss the spiritual meaning behind things, too. I think this comes with time, prayer, and learning to look for the spiritual in things.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions Matthew Lesson 17, Day 2: Matthew 16:1-12

I love how the Pharisees and Sadducees are constantly put in their place by Jesus in a nice way. Great example for us. Great learning from the disciples mistake, too.

Just a book I wanted to share!

End Notes BSF Study Questions Matthew Lesson 17, Day 2: Matthew 16:1-12

It is worth noting that the Pharisees and Sadducees were normally not friends. They were politically opposed and held different beliefs. Yet, both wanted Jesus dead.

In Matthew 12:38, Jesus had already been asked for a sign, which he refused to give then. As if healing people was not enough. They could read the heavens, but not the Messianic signs. This is a warning to us to not miss the signs of the Second Coming as outlined in Revelation mainly.

Note that signs do not convert people; they will always have hard hearts.

Jesus’s resurrection would be a hard sign to deny. He would disappear like Jonah for three days and nights and then return.

Yeast, or leaven, was compared to sin and corruption as we’ve seen repeatedly in the Bible  (Matthew 13:33) Exodus 12:8, 12:15-20).

Note that the disciples were ignornant of what yeast symbolized, they didn’t believe they’d be find if they had forgotten bread since Jesus fed the 5,000, and they forgot all that had happened with regards to this.

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BSF Matthew Lesson 17 Additional Bible Resources: Gifts for You!

by atozmom, posted in BSF Matthew 2021/2022

Hey all!

I don’t know about you, but I usually buy my own Christmas gifts. Here are some of my favorite gifts for you!

Enjoy!

 

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BSF Study Questions Matthew Lesson 16, Day 5: Matthew 15:29-39

by atozmom, posted in BSF Matthew 2021/2022

SUMMARY OF MATTHEW 15:29-39

Jesus left Tyre and Sidon and returned to the Sea of Galilee. He went up a mountainside and sat down. Great crowds came and he healed many. The people were amazed and they praised the God of Israel.

Jesus called his disciples to him. He tells them he has compassion on the people who have not eaten for three days and he doesn’t want to send them away hungry or they may collapse. His disciples wonder how they will get the food. Jesus asked for the loaves of bread they had and the fish. He gave thanks for the bread and fish and broke them. He gave them to his disciples who distributed it to the people.

Everyone ate and was satisfied. They had seven basketfulls of broken pieces left over. Four thousand ate plus women and children. Then he traveled to Magadan.

BSF Study Questions Matthew Lesson 16, Day 5: Matthew 15:29-39

12a) Similar: Jesus was moved by compassion to feed the crowd. Both times, the disciples didn’t know what to do. Both times, everyone sat and Jesus gave thanks for the bread and fish. He distributed the food through the disciples’ hands. They all ate and were satisfied.

b) Different: In one account, Jesus feeds 5,000; here, he feeds 4,000. The miracles happened in different locations in Galilee. Here, Jesus takes the initiative to feed the people. In the feeding of the 5,000, the disciples wish to send the people away to buy their own food. In the feeding of the 5,000, they had 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish. Here, they have 7 loaves of bread and a few small fish. In the feeding of the 5,000, there were 12 basketfuls of broken pieces left over. Here, they had 7 basketfulls left over.

13a) To see that Jesus’s power is consistent and now a fluke. He is the Son of God.

b) He is showing others who he is, as well as setting the stage for the future when Gentiles will be welcomed into God’s kingdom.

14) Contentment in life

map of decapolis www.atozmomm.comConclusions BSF Study Questions Matthew Lesson 16, Day 5: Matthew 15:29-39

I love seeing how Jesus cares for his people’s physical needs and provides food and sustenance when they need it. I had forgotten about this miracle since the Feeding of the 5,000 overshadows it.

End Notes BSF Study Questions Matthew Lesson 16, Day 5: Matthew 15:29-39

This is the eastern side of the Sea of Galilee in a region known as the Decapolis. It was mostly Gentiles or unbelievers. The fact they gathered and believed in the power of Jesus to heal shows his impact on the region.

Whether they had faith before, we are not told. We are told that after they were healed, they glorified the God of Israel, presumably turning to God.

Jesus came to relieve human suffering and show God on earth by opening spiritual eyes.

Again, God provides out of His abundance by having leftovers. Many see the feeding of the 5,000 and the the 4,000 as a precursor to the Messianic banquet and showed that Gentiles would be accepted there.

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BSF Study Questions Matthew Lesson 16, Day 4: Matthew 15:21-28

by atozmom, posted in BSF Matthew 2021/2022

SUMMARY OF MATTHEW 15:21-28

Jesus now traveled to Tyre and Sidon. A Canaanite woman came to ask Jesus to help her daughter who was possessed by a demon. At first, Jesus did not answer. Apparently, the woman kept begging, prompting the disciples to ask Jesus to send her away. Jesus said he was sent to help only Israelites. The woman kept begging and showed great faith, so Jesus healed her daughter.

BSF Study Questions Matthew Lesson 16, Day 4: Matthew 15:21-28

9a) Because they would be preaching to the Gentiles after he died.

b) “Lord, Son of David.” This shows she understands who Jesus really is — the son of God.

10a) A Canaanite woman came to ask Jesus to help her daughter who was possessed by a demon. At first, Jesus did not answer. Apparently, the woman kept begging, prompting the disciples to ask Jesus to send her away. Jesus said he was sent to help only Israelites. The woman kept begging and showed great faith, so Jesus healed her daughter.

b) He was testing her faith and that of the disciples

11a) She never gives up hope in Jesus to heal her daughter. She realizes who Jesus is and humbles herself. She never loses faith or hope in Jesus.

b) The same. To never give up. To keep praying. And to not lose faith or hope in Jesus.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions Matthew Lesson 16, Day 4: Matthew 15:21-28

I love when Jesus helps those who are persistent. I’m very persistent myself.

Great read for all!

map of type and sidon www.atozmomm.comEnd Notes BSF Study Questions Matthew Lesson 16, Day 4: Matthew 15:21-28

Tyre and Sidon were located on the Mediterranean Sea about 20 miles apart from each other. They were about 50 miles travel distance from where Jesus was in Galilee. These were Gentile cities, so why would Jesus go there? To help this woman.

She came as an intercessor for her daughter. This gives us hope when we pray for others, too.

Jesus healed other Gentiles  (Matthew 4:24-25; 8:5-13) but always before in Jewish territory. Here, he is in Gentile territory.

The woman irritated the disciples, so they asked Jesus to heal her so she’d leave.

Jesus clearly states he is here for the Jews.

The woman did not back down. She continued asking for healing for her daughter.

Jesus called the woman a “little dog,” which was a traditional slur towards Gentiles. Household dogs were entitled to a portion.

The woman did not argue; she knew she was low. Instead, she continued to ask for Jesus’s help and blessing.

All she asks for is the crumbs — which his all any of us are worthy of.

Fun Fact: This is the only time Jesus tells someone their faith is great.

This is the only story recorded of Jesus’s ministry in Tyre and Sidon. It appears Jesus traveled all this way just to meet her. How awesome is that!

This woman had a need, and she never gave up. She knew who Jesus was and she kept pursuing him.

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BSF Study Questions Matthew Lesson 16, Day 3: Matthew 15:10-20

by atozmom, posted in BSF Matthew 2021/2022

SUMMARY OF MATTHEW 15:10-20

Jesus teaches the crowds that food does not make him unclean, but words that come out do. The disciples ask Jesus if he knew that he offended the Pharisees. Jesus says the Pharisees are blind, and the blind leading the blind will fall into a pit. Peter asks Jesus to explain the parable, and Jesus asks them why they are so dull. He says that the things that come out of the mouth are from the heart, which determines if he is unclean. The heart harbors evil thoughts, and unwashed hands don’t make him unclean.

BSF Study Questions Matthew Lesson 16, Day 3: Matthew 15:10-20

6) Words are what make a man unclean, not washing his hands, because it shows his heart.

7a) About offending the Pharisees

b)  Jesus says the Pharisees are blind, and the blind leading the blind will fall into a pit. He is unconcerned about them.

8a) He says that the things that come out of the mouth are from the heart, which determines if he is unclean. The heart harbors evil thoughts, and unwashed hands don’t make him unclean.

b) Showing up to church, participating in charity activities, doing Godly things for others, praying in public, etc.

c) Your words matter, and it shows your heart. God only cares about your heart, not what you look like or do on the outside.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions Matthew Lesson 16, Day 3: Matthew 15:10-20

Great lesson about how God wants your heart, not your rituals.

End Notes BSF Study Questions Matthew Lesson 16, Day 3: Matthew 15:10-20

Jesus did have the advantage knowing that all food would be considered clean for eating in the New Covenant. The Jewish people have lived for centuries under the Old Testament that had strict laws about food being clean.

The disciples are concerned that Jesus offended the Pharisees; Jesus is not, and some Bible scholars say he intended to offend them. Jesus explains that since the commandments of the Pharisess are not God’s laws, they won’t stand the test of time and will be uprooted. God’s Word is to be our root.

Make sure your leaders are not blind. It is all possible that the Pharisees themselves did not understand the Scriptures.

Jesus explains what matters is if we are unclean on the inside, not the outside. Evil comes from our nature. Words can and do hurt others; what you eat and drink only hurts yourself.

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BSF Study Questions Matthew Lesson 16, Day 2: Matthew 15:1-9 With Mark’s Parallel Account in Mark 7:1-13

by atozmom, posted in BSF Matthew 2021/2022

SUMMARY OF MATTHEW 15:1-9

The Pharisees and teachers of the law come to Jesus and ask him why his disciples break the Old Testatment law of washing their hands before they eat. Jesus countered, asking them why they break the command of God for the sake of their traditions. He uses an example of honoring your mother and father. He calls them hypocrites and tells them Isaiah was right when he prophesied about them, saying their hearts are not God’s and they worship in vain as their rules are taught by men.

SUMMARY OF MARK 7:1-13

The Pharisees and the teachers of the law came from Jerusalem to see Jesus. They say the disciples were eating food with “unclean” or unwashed hands. Jewish people ceremonially wash their hands before they eat in the tradition of their elders. They asked Jesus why the disciples weren’t following the tradition of the elders.

Jesus replies that Isaiah was right in saying that they do not follow God, but instead follow the traditions of man. Jesus points out they make their own rules, setting aside God’s law, saying they teach that they don’t need to help their father and mother if they’ve received help elsewhere.

BSF Study Questions Matthew Lesson 16, Day 2: Matthew 15:1-9 With Mark’s Parallel Account in Mark 7:1-13

3a) The Pharisees ask Jesus why his disciples break the Old Testatment law of washing their hands before they eat and eat with unclean hands.

b) Jesus answered their question by pointing out how they have given up following God’s law for the sake of following their traditions instead.

4) Exodus 20:12: Honor your father and mother.

Mark 7:11-13: The Pharisees apparently don’t honor their father and mother

Ephesians 6:1-3: Honor your father and mother and obey them.

He exposed how the Pharisees did not promote honoring your father and mother.

5a) Jesus’s primary message to the Pharisees and teachers was that they set aside God’s law for their own law, putting themselves above God.

b) Good question. I try not to be a hypocrite, but I know I am in some respects. I can be very selfish, but I admit when I am. I try to do what is right and good in all respects.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions Matthew Lesson 16, Day 2: Matthew 15:1-9 With Mark’s Parallel Account in Mark 7:1-13

I love how Jesus just doesn’t even bother to answer the Pharisees directly because their question is so trivial. In the grand scheme of things, who cares about washing your hands? Jesus came to wash hearts with God, not hands.

Great read if you are struggling!

End Notes BSF Study Questions Matthew Lesson 16, Day 2: Matthew 15:1-9 With Mark’s Parallel Account in Mark 7:1-13

Matthew 15:1-9

We see the Pharisees travel all the way from Jerusalem (about 70 miles) to Galilee in order to check out Jesus.

The Pharisees admit this is a tradition, not a law. So why bother asking? It’s trivial when compared to Jesus’s work.

The teachers of the law were condemning people for not following tradition, not the law. Over the years, the religious leaders had extended God’s law to many rituals that were meant for show and that they used to leverage their power. However, these rituals only blocked people them from God essentially.

Honor your mother and father speaks to helping them when they are in need. Apparently, by declaring resources dedicated to God, you could withhold them from your parents.

Jesus quotes Isaiah who points out that you can outwardly be close to God, but inwardly be far away.

Mark 7:1-13

It is plain from the Pharisees that they are just out to get Jesus and trap him. They truly don’t care about the good he is doing for others. They used their traditions to try to trap Jesus instead of God’s word.

In Old Testament times, there was the written law and the oral law. The oral law was the interpretation of the written law, and many put the oral law above the written law.

The washing of hands before eating was taken very seriously by most Jews, and it was a very elaborate ceremony. They would pour water over their hands and cleanse the palm. They believed unclean food was like eating excrement. The Pharisees were concerned about losing power, and nothing else.

Note how many traditions seem good, but in the end, turn bad.

Uncleanliness is not the food itself, but the disobeying of God instead.

The Pharisees were too concerned with the trivial, which is why Jesus labels them hypocrites. This kept people from drawing near to God.

They were putting their word equal with God’s and promoting it as God’s.

If possessions were labeled as dedicated to God (Corban), they could not be used for any other matter, including helping your parents.

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The Herods in the Bible

by atozmom, posted in BSF Matthew 2021/2022

The Herods were a ruling dynasty back in the first century AD in Judea when Jesus was teaching. They were granted absolute power by the Roman Empire over all of Judea, so what they said was law. In all, we meet six of them in the Bible. For great reads, go HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE

Herod the Great ruled when Jesus was born. He’s the one we read about in Matthew 2 when Jesus is born. He’s one who tries to find Jesus’s location from the Magi and orders all baby boys slaughtered in an effort to kill Jesus. He murdered his own sons when he thought they wanted his throne. So one evil guy. It is believed that he had a disease his final years that affected his brain and led to some of these heinous acts.

Herod the tetrarch or Herod Antipas was a son of Herod the Great. He took over the rule of Judea when his father died. Herod imprisoned John the Baptist because he dared to speak against him. He later had him beheaded as we read in Matthew 14.

Herod knew who Jesus was, but let Pilate deal with him.

Herod Agrippa I was Herod the tetrarch’s son. He ruled after his father when the early church was growing. He executed James and arrested Peter. When Peter escaped, he killed the guards (Acts 12). He died because he did not give praise to God (Acts 12:23).

The Herods, through political acumen and savvy, help the peace of Jerusalem during Jesus’s time there and during the days of the early church before Rome and the Jews clashed. This was,indeed, God’s plan.

The Zondervan Illustrated Bible Dictionary has many pages on this family that is fascinating to read. Order if interested today!

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BSF Matthew Lesson 15 Additional Bible Resources: For Those Struggling to Get Into the Christmas Spirit!

by atozmom, posted in BSF Matthew 2021/2022

Hey all!

I thought I’d recommend some cool items for those struggling to get into the Christmas spirit. Enjoy!

Enjoy!

 

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