Commuter Bible NT

John writes to the church reminding them that we are beloved children of God the Father. The world won't understand us, because it doesn't know the Father; even so this new identity calls to be set apart as we live a life of purity and devotion to the One who has redeemed us. Our new relationship with God begets a new relationship with other believers: with God as our Father, we should love other Christians as brothers and sisters. Christ said that the church would be known for loving one another, and John echoes this teaching by admonishing the church to believe in the name of God's Son Jesus Christ, and to love one another as he commanded us. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

John, the apostle whom Jesus loved and the author of the fourth gospel writes today's letter to the church with encouragement to flee from sin, to trust in Jesus, to love one another, and to assure them of the eternal life that Christ has secured for them. This letter doesn't have a typical structure; unlike other epistles it doesn't address a particular church or mention individual people. Here in the first two chapters, John addresses those who continue in sinful lifestyles while saying that they have fellowship with God. Of course, everyone has sinned, but those who perpetuate evil, who hate brothers in Christ, who lust and who are proud without any inclination toward repentance, do not fellowship with God. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Jude's letter, while brief, is both pointed and to the point. While he had hoped to write a letter of encouragement and celebration in the gospel, he realized it was more prudent to encourage them to contend for the faith against those false teachings which had infiltrated the church. Pointing back to Sodom and Gomorrah, the rebellion in the wilderness after the exodus, to Balaam, to Cain, and to those who rebelled with Korah, he asserts that these people who deny Jesus and who rely on dreams will be doomed to hell. In these end times there are certain to be scoffers who live according to their ungodly desires, who create division, and who are worldly. Even so, he encourages the church to have mercy on those who waver. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The book of Hebrews concludes today with a laundry list of encouragements to pursue one another in brotherly love. As the writer lists out the manner in which members of the church should relate to one another, he cites biblical and theological reasons why each should be practiced in the manner he describes. As you listen, consider the self-sacrificing nature of each action, for the nature of Christ's love for the church was self-sacrificial, and in order to be Christlike, we too, must follow the path selflessness. There are also commendations to rest in the truth and suffer for the sake of righteousness, enduring what is temporary in order to gain that which is eternal. The author then concludes with final remarks and a benediction. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Having laid a foundation of former faithful followers from Israel's past, the writer of Hebrews encourages his audience to lay aside every hindrance and sin so that they might faithfully run the race set before them. By enduring hardship and suffering, the church is strengthened by a disciplined life. He goes on to encourage peaceful living with one another, making sure that no root of bitterness springs up. He continues to encourage hopeful perseverance by reminding them that they are not headed to Mount Sinai, a physical mountain where the Lord shook the earth in holiness; they are headed to Mount Zion, an unshakeable kingdom where the peace of Christ reigns and the redeemed saints gather to live forevermore. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Hebrews 11 is often referred to as “Hall of Faith” wherein the writer of Hebrews goes through a list of men in the history of God's people who had faith in the Lord. Beginning with Creation itself, he writes about the faith of Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, and then says that time prohibits him from going on and on about others who came after them. Even so, he lists what the faithful had endured, persevering by faith. All of these were approved through their faith, yet did not yet fully receive what God had promised. All of this history will be used as a platform in chapter 12 to encourage the church to persevere through difficulties and maintain faith in the Lord. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The writer of Hebrews is writing to a largely Jewish audience discussing how Jesus is better than all that has come before him. This is an effort to help them see the futility of keeping certain Jewish practices which have been fulfilled in Christ. Today, the writer considers how Jesus is a better sacrifice. In the tabernacle and temple system, sacrifices for sins were once made continually because men sinned continually, but in Jesus we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all time. This security is a source of hope for the believer, for in Christ we have a better and enduring possession that is far more valuable than anything we might lose in this world. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In the old covenant, the average Israelite was not allowed to enter into the holy place, and only the high priest was allowed to enter into the most holy place. This earthly tabernacle was a shadow and predecessor of the heavenly pattern, wherein sinful men like us cannot enter into God's holy presence. Thankfully, we have a high priest in Jesus, for he is able, not only to enter into His Father's presence, but to cleanse our consciences. He cleanses us, not with the blood of bulls or goats, but with his very own blood. In so doing, Christ is the perfect lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world. Unlike the old covenant which required continual sacrifices by imperfect men, Christ has entered into this heavenly tabernacle, or one “not made with hands” and has made sacrifice once and for all. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The plans for the tabernacle given to Moses are in some ways a finite, earthly replica of the heavens, as they are said to be a copy or a shadow of the heavenly things. This system of worship included finite, earthly priests who served until they died, but Christ is the high priest of the new covenant who always lives to intercede. Jesus is the mediator of a new and better covenant which was prophesied through Jeremiah, and in today's episode the writer of Hebrews quotes the prophet Jeremiah at length. He argues that a new covenant would not need to be given if the old covenant was sufficient. The Jews should therefore partake of the new covenant in Christ, for the old covenant is obsolete. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In chapters 5 and 6, the writer of Hebrews briefly mentioned that Jesus was a high priest according to the order of Melchizedek. As we read chapter 7 today, he'll elaborate on what that means. In short, the question is this: since we know that the lineage of Jesus is from Judah and not Levi, how can it be that he qualifies to be a high priest? Even though Jesus had parents who were of the line of David, he himself is not from Adam's fallen race; as such, he can be compared to Melchizedek, who is without a genealogy. Moreover, Abraham gave Melchizedek a tenth of everything, as Abraham was the inferior and Melchizedek was superior. Because Jesus is even better than Melchizedek, the author concludes that a better covenant has come, and it comes under a priest who holy, innocent, and undefiled. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In the gospels, Jesus teaches a parable about a sower and seeds. Some of the seeds show signs of growth and life, yet all of them, save one seed, do not survive. The planted seed of the gospel can have a temporary, life-giving effect on some who have not truly repented, but those who endure and bear fruit are those who prove to be Christ's disciples. Likewise, the writer of Hebrews tells his audience it is impossible to renew to repentance those who merely tasted the heavenly gift of Christ's church, but who ultimately fall away and despise the Lord. He wants the church to endure in hope until the end, being diligent in their faith, not lazy. Finally, the writer argues that God wants to show his unchangeable purpose through his promises to his people. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

As we read from the book of Hebrews today we'll see that Jesus is a better rest than the Sabbath and a better high priest. While the Sabbath regularly pointed God's people to their need for rest and to their dependence on the Lord, the author of Hebrews says that a Sabbath rest remains for God's people, namely Jesus Christ, for all those who are found him are able to rest from works of righteousness while depending on the Lord to provide for them both here and hereafter. Later, we'll see that Jesus is a superior priest, for like Melchizedek his priesthood is not based on ancestral lineage. This idea will be developed further in later passages. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Hebrews is a book about how Jesus is better than all that has come before him, and in chapter 3 we see that Jesus is better than Moses, and this is in no way takes away from Moses' faithfulness. Moses was truly faithful as a servant in the household of God, but Jesus is worthy of more honor because Jesus was faithful as a Son over his household. While there are many who will serve in the household of God, there is only Son who inherits all things from the Father. The writer of Hebrews then warns his readers against unbelief, reminding them that those who were brought out of Egypt didn't get to see the Promised Land because they were disobedient, and instead, they died in the wilderness. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today we begin the book of Hebrews, a book that emphasizes the superiority of Christ to all that has come before him. While the writer of the book of Hebrews remains unknown, we do know that this writer can quote the Old Testament Scriptures at length and is very polished in his ability to write and to reason. This letter is unique, as it has no greeting and seems to be directed specifically toward Jewish believers. In today's passage, the writer argues that Jesus is greater than the prophets who came before, as God has spoken to us directly by the Son and appointed him heir of all things. He is greater than angels, for everything has been made subject to him. Moreover, as one who has flesh and blood, he has reached out to help men, but has not done so for angels. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Matthew's gospel concludes in today's episode as consider the hope of the resurrection in Jesus Christ our Lord. The good news of Jesus Christ is that he died for our sins on the cross, drinking the full cup of God's wrath on our behalf so that we might be forgiven of our sins. Not only this, but he also deposits his perfect righteousness into our account so that his perfect fulfillment of the Law might be attributed to us. If that weren't enough, he also has risen from the dead, conquering both sin and death so that we might live forever with him. Living forever with him begins in this life, for he has promised that he will be with us always, even to the end of the age. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today, we'll cover Matthew's account of the crucifixion including Christ's death on the cross, but stopping shy of his burial, saving that section for our next reading. We begin with the account of Judas confessing his guilt in betraying Jesus, and the response from the chief priests and elders is one of indignant apathy. Fraught with grief, Judas hangs himself and dies. Though he has been charged as guilty before the Jews, Jesus now stands trial before the governor, Pontius Pilate. Though he finds no guilt in Jesus, he condemns him in order to keep a riot from starting. After Jesus is mocked and beaten by the Roman military who oversaw his custody, he is led to the cross and crucified between two criminals. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The time has come for Jesus to be betrayed into the hands of sinners. Having finished taking the Passover meal together, Jesus goes to the Mount of Olives with his disciples to spend the night. This has been their routine while in Jerusalem, and Judas knew where to find them. After Judas indicates which man is Jesus by greeting him with a kiss, an armed mob of men arrest Jesus and lead him away to be tried by the high priest and the Sanhedrin. While witnesses are brought forth to testify against him, none of their accusations stick. Finally, Jesus confirms that he is the Messiah, the Son of God, and they sentence him to death. Peter waits in the wings, unable to muster the courage needed to acknowledge Jesus. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

During his time in Jerusalem leading up to the Passover, Jesus has been causing quite a commotion among the people. In addition to teaching God's Word with power and authority, he has insulted the chief priests, the scribes, the Pharisees, and the Sadducees, all of whom were accustomed to being revered as scholars and spiritual leaders. Concerned for their own reputation and for what they considered to be right teaching, they plot to kill Jesus. Christ, however, knows his own fate and has been telling the disciples that he will soon be handed over to be killed. During the Passover meal, he even announces that one of his own disciples will betray him. With zeal, Peter proclaims that he would never fall away from Jesus, but Christ knows that won't be the case. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In our last reading, Jesus spoke to his disciples about living faithfully during the end times and about the return of the Son of Man. Jesus continues in this same discourse as we pick up and read today's chapter with two parables and one analogy that sounds a lot like a parable. All three of these ideas focus on diligence, perseverance, and expectation for the return of the Son of Man. In the parable of the ten virgins, Jesus teaches his disciples to prepare themselves for his return, even planning their lives appropriately toward that end. In the parable of the talents, Jesus addresses using one's gifts and opportunities to advance the kingdom in his absence. In the analogy of sheep and goats, Christ discusses humble service to those in need. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

You may have noticed that the closer we get to Christ's crucifixion, the more time seems to slow down. This is intentional, as Matthew is highlighting the importance of Christ's time in Jerusalem before he is executed by the Jews. Today Christ tells his disciples about future things, including the destruction of the temple, which happened only 70 years later, for the old covenant is passing away and the gospel of Christ's kingdom has come. Jesus tells his followers to expect persecution, false prophets, false messiahs, an increase of wars and an increase in natural disasters. Even so, the gospel will go forth into all the world. Finally, no one knows the day or hour when Christ will return, but that shouldn't stop us from anticipating that day. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In the midst of the people of Jerusalem, just days before the Passover feast was to be celebrated, Jesus speaks to large crowds of devoted Jews about the dangers of hypocritical teachers. Here, Jesus doesn't beat around the bush, but instead openly names and rebukes the scribes and Pharisees as hypocrites. He criticizes them for self-righteous behaviors and traditions that only serve to exalt man. The posture that the truly righteous should take, however, is a posture of humility and service. In his rebuke, Jesus says that they will be charged with the blood of the righteous, from Adam's son Abel to the prophet Zechariah, who was murdered in the temple. This kind of rebuke against a city while standing in the city itself would have caused an uproar, perhaps even turning the crowds' fanfare into fury. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today's episode begins the parable of the wedding feast, which Jesus tells to the people of Jerusalem. If you're familiar with the book of Revelation, you'll recall that as the vision comes to a close, we are shown a wedding feast where Christ is the groom and his bride is the church. God invites all men to this banquet, but many reject this invitation and go about their business. Some even kill the messengers who were sent to invite them. Later, the Pharisees and the Sadducees try their best to trap Jesus in his words. Finally, Jesus turns the tables and asks them a challenging question about the words of King David which they are unable to answer. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

On today's episode, Jesus enters Jerusalem and is welcomed with great fanfare by the crowds. Those who had concluded that Jesus was the long-awaited Messiah had also concluded that the Son of David would reign as king in the same way the David ruled as a king. In other words, they thought he was a wise man who would take the throne, perhaps even by force, and that restoration to geopolitical nation of Israel would be restored. Though Jesus is the Son of David and the promised Messiah, he hasn't come to claim victory over his foes in the ways that the Jews had surmised. In fact, we'll see from today's passage that Jesus rebukes God's people for their hardness of heart. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Our understanding of fairness is often based on what experience by comparison; in other words, we see what other people have in similar positions as ours and we make judgments about whether one thing or another is “fair” or “unfair.” When it comes to the kingdom of heaven, Jesus alters our vantage point to see things from a heavenly perspective. In short, we should not be jealous of God's generosity towards others. Later, James and John ask Jesus if they can sit on his right and left in the coming kingdom. Jesus tells them that while the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, it should not be so in the kingdom. In fact, anyone who wants to be great in the kingdom must be a servant. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today, Jesus teaches on a difficult topic, and that is the topic of divorce. The Pharisees were often associated with the Hillel school of thought, which advocated for very liberal divorce proceedings which were so petty that even something like burning your husband's dinner could be valid grounds for separation. Jesus confronts this teaching by pointing back to the garden of Eden as the design of marriage, then by saying that Moses permitted divorce because of the hardness of their sinful hearts, not because it was God's design for them. We'll also see how Jesus addresses a young man with great wealth who wants to be counted as righteous. This leads into a discussion about the relationship between one's riches and one's status in the kingdom of heaven. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Matthew chapter 18 is almost entirely comprised of Jesus speaking and teaching, with just two questions posed by his followers. Those questions are, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” and “How many times shall I forgive my brother or sister?” In answering the question of who is the greatest, Jesus brings in a child and says that the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these. He then tells the parable of the lost sheep, and gives instruction on how to restore a brother who refuses to repent. On the questions of forgiveness, Jesus responds with the parable of the unforgiving servant, wherein the man who is forgiven much by his master short-sightedly demands equity from his neighbor who owes him very little. As such, that man stands condemned. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today, Jesus takes the three disciples with whom he has a closer relationship up on a high mountain, and there, he is miraculously transfigured before them. This change in his physical appearance, accompanied by an auditory testament to his identity, is in some ways a “sign from heaven” which the Pharisees and Sadducees had requested in our last reading. Jesus did not reveal this vision to those men because they wanted proof in order to have faith; Jesus instead reveals his deity to his disciples who already have faith and have confessed that Jesus is the Messiah. After this, Jesus begins to tell his disciples that he will delivered over into the hands of sinners to die. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The Pharisees and the Sadducees were often at odds with each other concerning doctrine and philosophy, but they had a common link in their skepticism about Jesus. Today they ask Jesus to display his power with a sign from heaven. Christ has already performed numerous miracles, but these men have been blind to the truth; they can't read the signs of the times. Later, Peter makes what is often called “the good confession,” which is that Jesus is not John the Baptist resurrected or Elijah, but the Messiah. Jesus says that he will build his church on this confession, but those who follow him will have to take up their cross in order to do so. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The Pharisees and scribes liked to add traditions to the Law that were extrabiblical, meaning that we were found outside of Scripture. When they try to accuse Christ's disciples of wrongdoing, Jesus turns the tables and shows them the way their traditions actually serve to violate God's law, rather than fulfill it. He then teaches the crowd that it is not what enters a person's mouth that makes them unclean, but what comes out of their mouth that makes them unclean. Later, a woman who isn't Jewish approaches Jesus for help, asking him to heal her daughter. Surprised by her faith, Jesus grants her request. Miraculous signs continue where ever Jesus goes, attesting to his power and authority. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Earlier in Matthew we learned that John the Baptist had been imprisoned, and in today's episode we learn the specifics surrounding that event. Herod Antipas, the son of Herod the Great, reigns as tetrarch over Galilee, which in short, is similar to a duke in medieval times. Sadly, John's imprisonment ends in execution, an unjust end that foreshadows the even more audacious crucifixion of Christ. We'll also hear Matthew's account of Jesus feeding the 5,000, the account of Christ walking on water far from shore on the Sea of Galilee, and more accounts of Jesus healing the sick, even those who merely touch the end of his robe. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Matthew 13's parable-palooza continues as pick up the second half of the chapter in today's reading. Following the two agriculturally based parables from the last reading (the parable of the sower and the parable of the wheat and the weeds) we'll read the parable of the mustard seed and the parable of the leaven, each of which is used to explain how the kingdom will start small, then grow exponentially. After explaining the parable of the wheat and the weeds, more parables follow, including the parable of the hidden treasure, the priceless pearl, the large net, and the storehouse of truth. In each of these parables, Jesus is helping his disciples to understand the nature of the coming kingdom. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The next two readings from Matthew 13 are a parable-palooza, so sit tight and hit the pause button every now and again when you need a moment to think about what Jesus is teaching. A large crowd is following Jesus, so he gets into a boat and puts out a little from the shore, giving him natural amplification, as the water would have carried his voice. Much of today's reading is occupied with the parable of the sower, which Jesus explains at length to his disciples, but conceals their meaning from those who are not his followers. We conclude today's section with the parable of the wheat and the weeds, wherein Jesus delineates between those who are truly of the kingdom and those who are simply in close proximity to those in Jesus' kingdom. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

So far in Matthew's narrative, Jesus has demonstrated that he is Lord over disease, death, demons, and even Lord over Creation and the created order. He also demonstrated that he is Lord over men, offering forgiveness of sins to the repentant. Today Jesus demonstrates that he is Lord of the Sabbath, refusing to compromise his heavenly standard in order to submit to the scribes. Moreover, he freely calls men to serve to him, sits with those who would have been considered unclean without becoming unclean himself, and continues to heal those who are ailing. No like this has ever been seen in Israel before Jesus, setting him apart as more than just a prophet and more than just a priest. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

We learn later in Matthew's gospel that John the Baptist was imprisoned because he had been telling Herod the tetrarch that it was unlawful to have his brother's wife. Herod wanted to kill him, but kept him in prison because he was afraid of the crowds. John the Baptist was a faithful prophet and forerunner to Christ, but he was still just a man who didn't have all of the answers. Today, he asks if Jesus is the one who is to come, or if there is someone else. Christ's response is to point to the signs and wonders he is performing while validating John's ministry. By contrast, Jesus condemns his critics as well as those towns that did not repent after he performed miracles within them. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Jesus had many disciples that followed him, but of those disciples there were twelve men with whom Jesus had a special relationship marked by proximity, teaching, and title. In today's reading, Jesus sets these men apart for the work of ministry and gives them each the title of “apostle.” He sends these men out with the message of Christ's kingdom on their lips, giving them instructions on how they are to conduct themselves as they go. He warns them that there will be persecution, but even so, they aren't to fear men, but God, who values them greatly. Christ came, not to bring peace, but a sword, and division between the godly and the ungodly is sure to come. While his disciples might lose family over the name of Jesus, they will be given each other to care for as family. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Thus far in Matthew's gospel, we haven't heard complaints from the crowds about any of Christ's teachings or any unrest from his ministry to sick or suffering people, but in today's episode Jesus begins crossing boundaries which had been laid through the teaching of the scribes and Pharisees. After forgiving the sins of a paralyzed man, the scribes claim that Jesus is blaspheming, but he immediately shows them that he has the power to do even greater things through his authoritative word. Similar encounters follow, but the power and authority that Jesus has over Creation simply cannot be denied. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In today's reading, we begin to witness the power and authority of Jesus over creation, including not only the natural, physical realm, but the spiritual realm as well. A man with leprosy professes faith in Jesus to cleanse him, and Christ responds by healing him. A roman centurion professes belief that Christ can heal his servant from afar, and after lauding the man's faith, Jesus does just that. Later, they visit Peter's house where his mother-in-law is sick with a fever. Christ heals her, and she begins to serve him. Towards the end of our reading, we see that even the wind and the waves obey Jesus, and if that weren't enough, even the demons cower and obey the will of Christ. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

We are still reading through Matthew's account of the Sermon on the Mount, and in today's reading, we begin with what might be one of the most abused quotes in Scripture, which is, “Do not judge, so that you won't be judged.” Often people think the first part is the most important part, and they use it to tell others not to judge them. Jesus' point however is to alert his hearers to hypocritical judgment, calling out the small sins of others while you are dealing with massive sin yourself. What's more, in this same chapter, Jesus tells his hearers to be on guard against false prophets, which would most assuredly require discernment and judgment. The Sermon on the Mount concludes at the end of today's reading. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The Sermon on the Mount continues in today's reading, beginning with teachings on giving and praying. In summary, Jesus says to be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them, which flies in the face of most of mankind's posture towards good deeds, because if it didn't happen on social media, why do it, right? He also models how to pray, which falls in line with the posture of humility Jesus continues to preach. Our reading ends with an admonition to trust the Lord with your life and with your possessions, storing up treasure in heaven rather than on earth. No one can serve two masters; you can either love money and dethrone God, or you can love God and dethrone money. And after all, doesn't the Lord create and care for all things, including you? :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

As the new and better Moses, Jesus ascends a mountain and delivers the Word of God, only this time instead of being delivered on stone tablets, God's Word is delivered directly from the mouth of God the Son. This section of Scripture is called “The Sermon on the Mount” and contains highly concentrated dose of Jesus' teachings. Beginning with a section we call “The Beatitudes” Jesus pronounces unexpected blessing upon unlikely people. Later, he declares that he has not come to abolish the Law, but to fulfill it, and this he does perfectly, surpassing the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees. With this in mind, Christ enhances portions of the Ten Commandments to include the sins of the heart. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In the first two chapters of Matthew, the gospel-writer covered the advent of Jesus and the many ways in which he fulfilled the Scriptures simply by being born. Today, as we cover chapters 3-4, Matthew jumps ahead to Christ's adulthood and the beginning of his ministry. We meet John the Baptist who fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah of “one crying out in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord.'” When John baptizes Jesus, a sign from heaven appears and resounds, testifying to Christ's divine origin. Before beginning his public ministry of teaching, Jesus spends 40 days fasting in the wilderness at which point he is tempted by the devil. Though Israel failed to resist temptation during the 40 years in the wilderness, Christ shows that he is the true son of God by rejecting sin perfectly. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today we begin the gospel of Matthew, which was written with a Jewish audience in mind, pointing frequently to the Old Testament. Matthew looks back upon some 60 Hebrew prophecies throughout his gospel, proving that Christ was God's promised Messiah and the fulfillment of the Law. Not only is He the long-awaited King, He is also the new Abraham, that is, the head of the new spiritual Israel comprised of all who follow Him. If that weren't enough, Matthew also shows that Jesus is the new Moses; He is the greater prophet, teacher, and deliverer born among Israel's brothers who gives perfect instruction from God. Our reading begins with an interesting genealogy, including some names you might not expect in a royal lineage. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Those who trust in Christ know that a day is coming when the Lord will return to judge the living and the dead. But from Peter's up until today and even further into the future as the Lord tarries, there will be scoffers who say, “Where is his coming that he promised?” The Lord has power to do as he pleases and is not confined to the constraints of time as men are, therefore one day is like 1,000 years and 1,000 years is like a day. As we wait for the day of the Lord, we are to be holy in our conduct, serving the Lord faithfully. Finally, of note, Peter clearly references the writings of Paul as divinely inspired as he says that there are some matters that are hard to understand in them which will be twisted by evil men, just like they twist the rest of Scripture. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The entirety of chapter 2 concerns the judgment that will fall upon false teachers. Peter warns the church against those who teach destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them. Such false teaching has not ceased, if anything, it has continued to increase as the gospel has gone forth into the world. Their judgment is sure, for throughout history God has brought judgment upon the wicked while delivering the righteous. Peter compares them to Balaam, the Old Testament pagan who set out to curse Israel but instead was rebuked by a donkey. These people are “springs without water” promising life but delivering nothing of value. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The epistle we call 2 Peter is just a little more mysterious than 1 Peter, in that we don't know the circumstances regarding the letter nor do we know whom the recipients are intended to be. Peter references this as second letter, which could mean that the recipients are the same as 1 Peter, but it could also be the case that the recipients are unknown and that the first letter was not held as Scripture. By Peter's own admission, he is near the end of his life, which means he is likely writing from prison in Rome. In this letter, he writes to warn his recipients to beware of false teachers with their dubious doctrines and unrestrained lifestyles. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The book of 1 Peter concludes today with a short chapter including an exhortation to the elders of the churches to whom Peter is writing and a general admonition to resist the devil and remain humble. As he addresses the elders, those who were in charge of overseeing the local congregations of believers, Peter encourages them to shepherd God's flock out of love and not for lesser reasons. Consider, friends, that when Peter had betrayed Jesus by denying him three times, Christ restored Peter threefold by telling him to feed and shepherd his sheep. The admonition that Christ gave to Peter, he now passes on to others who seek to love the Lord through the service of teaching and leading. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In our last episode, Peter spoke to the church about suffering, pointing to Christ who suffered during his life that he might gain a heavenly reward. Rather than living according to fleshly desires, Christ lived for God's will; likewise, we are instructed to put aside fleshly desires and be done with sin. Instead, we are to live in such a way that we are wholly dependent on the Lord for each action. As we live for Christ, Peter warns that we should not be alarmed when persecution comes, for even Christ was persecuted during his lifetime, and we should expect no less. During such suffering, we are instructed to entrust ourselves to a faithful Creator while doing what is good. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org