MATTHEW: The King in Jerusalem

Jesus is dead. The past 24 hours have been an absolute whirlwind of activity. There has been an arrest, a sham trial, a horrific death, an earthquake, and a centurion identifying Jesus for who he truly was, the Son of God. Now it's evening and we meet a new character, Joseph of Arimathea. We aren't given any background other than he was a disciple of Jesus and that he was a rich man. Here is essentially a no one and in the midst of the horrific events doing a faithful, tender, and beautiful thing for his King. He went to Pilate to ask him for his friend's body and Pilate agrees. Then, he would have had to take Jesus' naked, wounded, bloody, disfigured body off the cross, wash him, pour spices over him, wrap him, carry him to his own tomb, and lay him there. The man who taught with authority, who healed the sick, who calmed the storm, who even raised the dead, was killed and was placed in a tomb as the women watched on. This was just as was prophesied by Isaiah, “He was assigned a grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death, though he had done no violence, nor was any deceit in his mouth.” (Isaiah 53:9) During his time on earth, Jesus foretold that he would die but also that he would rise again three days later and whereas the disciples may have forgotten this, the religious leaders haven't. They asked Pilate to put a guard in front of the tomb just in case the disciples stole the body and claimed that he rose again! If it eased political tensions and kept the peace, Pilate was all too happy to agree. Guards were placed at the entrance and it was sealed with Jesus' dead body inside. But we know that this isn't the end. Not only will Jesus rise again defeating death, but he will ascend to the right hand of the Father; he will come again; he will judge the living and the dead and bring those made righteous by his blood home to be with him for eternity. Come again Lord Jesus. MC Questions How can you prioritise and remember Jesus' actions for us afresh this Easter? Prayer Heavenly Father, we thank you for the death of Jesus, that he took the punishment in our place. Thank you that he rose again defeating death, and that he will come again to destroy it. Encourage and refresh us in that good news all the days of our lives and help us to look for his coming again. Amen.

Right up to the end, people are testing Jesus in order that they might know if he really was who he said he was (although it's likely that for many, their intention was far less sincere). There has already been all the evidence necessary, yet it seems clear that so many people only desire to come to God on their own terms rather than God's. But right at the last, a strange darkness falls over the land. We don't know how it occurred, but Matthew wants us to have a clear sense that Jesus' death is of cosmic consequence – with Jesus' death there is both a physical and spiritual darkness as the true light is extinguished. As Jesus cries out from the cross (quoting Psalm 22), he is not despairingly questioning God. His cry reflects that as he carries the sin of the world, he is completely cut off from the Father. We cannot even begin to imagine what this would have been like for Jesus. This is what he would have been most dreading as he prayed in the garden. Jesus and the Father had been in perfect relationship forever. Yet in this moment on the cross, as Jesus carries the guilt of the world upon his shoulders, that perfect relationship is broken, in order that the judgment for sin and punishment of death can be carried in him. It's sobering to recognise that it was all our sin that put him in that position. Yet it is in that moment that a new way is opened up for relationship with God. That's what the Temple curtain being torn in two is all about. This giant curtain separated the Most Holy Place where only the High Priest could enter once a year to make sacrifices to atone for the sins of the nation. Yet in Jesus' death, that barrier is now torn open to allow anyone to come to God through Jesus. AL Questions What is the most significant aspect of Jesus' death to you? What difference does it make to you that Jesus actually died? Take some time to think about how Jesus must have felt to be cut off from the Father. How valuable does that make our potential for relationship with God? Prayer Loving and merciful Lord, thank you that you loved us so much that you would die for us. Thank you that Jesus' death is not the end, but that through it, life has been opened up to all who trust in him. Amen.

It was common for prisoners who were condemned to crucifixion to have to carry their own cross to the place of crucifixion. As they carried the cross, they were paraded through crowds of people as a symbol of the power and might of Rome. As Jesus carried his cross, he would have been weak from the physical punishment – of beatings and floggings – that he had already received. The flogging he had received was enough in some instances to kill someone. Yet here, the carrying of the cross was the penultimate humiliation, second only to the crucifixion itself. As Jesus endures all of this, wine with gall is offered to reduce his pain, yet Jesus refuses. It's clear that Jesus wants to face his death with a clear focus on his mission and purpose right until the very end. We might find it surprising that even as Jesus hangs on the cross, he faces mocking, not only from the crowd, but even from a fellow prisoner crucified besides him. His mocking sums up much of what others have been saying. If Jesus is God, if he's the Messiah and is meant to save the world, then surely his death must be a failure. Yet what the criminal and everyone else can't see, is that it is through his death that Jesus' mission of salvation will be realised. He could of course save himself, yet he willingly faces death (hence no wine with gall), in order that those who trust in him will be saved. AL Questions Why do you think it is often easier for people to make fun of Jesus rather than to really face up to his claims? How do you think Jesus would have felt as he endured such mockery? In light of all that Jesus faced, why should we not be surprised when we face mockery too? How are we best to respond to this? Prayer Loving Saviour, thank you that nothing would deter you from the cross. Thank you that you endured all agony and humiliation, that through your death we might receive eternal life. Please help us to be inspired by your example, especially when we face mockery for our trust in you. May all our identity and strength be in you and you alone. Amen.

There was nothing fair about this trial. Caiaphas, the scribes, and the elders were all gathered together waiting for this moment. You can almost sense their anticipation as Jesus is brought in. Peter was following to see what would happen to the man whom he had confessed was the Messiah. As Jesus was standing there in the middle of the council, they were looking around for people to give testimonies that would warrant the death penalty. They had no regard for the truth but they had their intentions already set on killing Jesus. Unfortunately for them, there was not enough evidence to put Jesus to death. Many people came forward with unsubstantiated and false claims but they still couldn't put him on the cross. They could only come up with lies because Jesus was completely innocent! He was perfectly clean, he hadn't broken the law, and he wasn't teaching blasphemy but was preaching words of eternal life! Eventually two witnesses came forward which was something that could have been used in a court but what they accused Jesus of doing was a half truth. When asked to respond, Jesus stood silent. This is completely in line with the prophesy from Isaiah 53:7, “He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth.” Jesus is the fulfilment of the suffering servant. He was asked directly by the high priest whether he was the Christ, the promised Messiah and Jesus gives the clearest answer, ‘you have said so' and adds a line identifying himself with the Son of Man who was to come with power as told by Daniel. The Caiaphas was furious, the council was indignant, but Jesus was still silent as they mocked him, spat on him, and hit him. However, they were plotting in vain. By the same means that they were to put Jesus to death, Jesus was going to secure life which is on offer for all who repent and confess that he is Lord. MC Questions What was the main goal of the council in this trial? In the face of false accusations and lies, Jesus stood silent. Why did he do this? Why is it significant? Prayer Merciful God, words cannot express how thankful we are for Jesus. Thank you for his love for us so much that he would endure a sham trial and eventually death for us, taking away our sin and shame. In his name, Amen.

The moment of betrayal has arrived. Jesus knew that this was coming, and having spent time with his Father in prayer, he will surprise his adversaries as he willingly goes with them. The religious leaders have tried to do everything to avoid a riot by enlisting Judas, coming at night, and also by being careful where they arrested him. But despite their efforts, one of Jesus' disciples (were not told here, but we know from the Gospel of John that it was Peter) draws his sword and cuts off one of the servant's ears (nb. in Luke 22:51 we read that Jesus healed that man, Malchus). Peter thinks that Jesus' arrest will mean defeat because he has failed to understand that Jesus' death will actually be the way to victory. Jesus knows that, so he reminds everyone that not only is this what must be done so that the Law and the Prophets will be fulfilled, but if it wasn't, he had the power to stop it! It must have been baffling for all who were there. But the truth is clear: Jesus will go peacefully to the cross, in order that our peace with God will be won. Peter can't see that yet - but eventually he will. AL Questions What most stands out for you in this scene? If you had of been one of Jesus' disciples there, how do you think that you would have responded? How significant is it for you that it took Jesus' death, to win us peace with God? Prayer Heavenly Father, how we thank you that Jesus went willingly to the cross in order to win us peace with you. Please forgive us for the times in which take your grace for granted or for when our agenda does not line up with yours. Please help us, like Jesus, to submit our lives to your will, trusting that you are bringing your good purposes to completion. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

The hour has almost arrived, but before it does, Jesus goes to Gethsemane to pray. All throughout Jesus' ministry, we regularly witness him taking time out to spend with his Father in prayer. But this time is different. For not only does he take some of the disciples with him, but he asks them to keep watch. Up to this point, when Jesus spoke of the coming judgment and ultimately his return, he regularly implored all who will listen to keep watch! And now, as things reach their culmination, his plead with the disciples is emphatic. Surely they must have known that something cataclysmic was about to happen as Jesus shares that his “soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death”. We can only begin to understand what Jesus was feeling and of the load that he was bearing with the cross set before him. But even with cross ahead of him - with all the pain and sin that he would bear - he submits his life to the Father's will, “yet not as I will, but as you will”. Jesus prays a second time, “if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done”. But the cross is the only way. What phenomenal obedience! What phenomenal love, that Jesus would submit himself even to death, in order that we might live. But how are the disciples going? How are the keeping watch? They're not; they're asleep. It's hard to imagine the extra layer of sorrow that must have been for Jesus as his friends could not keep awake to support him in this great hour of need. But as the disciples sleep, it's also a reminder that what Jesus must now face, he must face alone. Many died on crosses, but there is only one - the one who is God himself - who could die as the ultimate sacrifice for the world. Jesus knows that. Jesus has submitted his life to that cause. And now, they rise, to meet his betrayer. AL Questions Why could only Jesus go to the cross as a sacrifice for the world? What do you think it means for us to ‘keep watch' as we await Jesus' return? Prayer Lord Jesus, we can only begin to imagine what it was like for you to carry the weight of the world's sin on the cross. Thank you, that even though you did not deserve it, that you went willingly and obediently to the Father. Please help us to faithfully keep watch as we await for your return. Amen.

Gathered on the Mount of Olives (remember a place that is a reminder of God's coming King and judgment), Jesus now foreshadows the tumultuous hours that will lead to his death, but also that the disciples will be scattered. Whilst Jesus has already warned of one disciple's impending betrayal, he now warns Peter of his denial. That before the rooster crows, that Peter will have disowned Jesus three times. Peter was shocked. He thinks that he's immune from falling away from Jesus, even if all of the others do. Peter (along with the others) recommits to Jesus, promising to even die with him if that's what it takes. But of course what is promised in the moment, is much harder to follow through when the time of testing actually arrives. When the time of testing arrives, Peter does indeed deny Jesus three times, just as Jesus had foretold. As we reflect on this, we should be humble enough to consider that we may have not been any better than the disciples! That whilst we can readily confess with our mouthes that we will stick with Jesus no matter what, when the going gets tough, it can be much harder to follow through. That faced with embarrassment or pressure on our frontlines, that we can regularly deny Jesus with our lives or words. We need to pray that we would be resilient disciples. That we would see the priorities of God's Kingdom and the certainty of Jesus' return with such a clarity, that it would cause us to clearly proclaim him no matter what the cost. AL Questions How do you think Jesus would have felt that his friends would deny him? Do you think we can ever overestimate how much we're really willing to face for Jesus? What helps you be faithful to Jesus in times of testing? Are you ever tempted to deny that you know Jesus on your frontlines? How could you grow in boldness and confidence? Prayer Loving Father, please forgive us for the times in which our lives or words deny Jesus. Please help us, even when costly, to clearly proclaim Jesus. Please help us, even in times of testing, to stick close to our Lord. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

The disciples would have been very familiar with the Passover meal. But as the night unfolds, Jesus does something extraordinary; he takes the familiar symbols and words and makes them about him! This is phenomenal! It would be like whoever is leading the Lord's Supper at a church gathering, to change the words to say that they are the ultimate fulfilment of this meal. But of course whilst if someone did that today it would be false, Jesus is showing the disciples something amazing. Jesus is showing us, in this meal that had been celebrated for centuries - as the Lord had commanded - to recall their rescue out of Egypt (cf. Exodus 12), that his death makes possible the ultimate rescue from sin and death. That his body will be broken for us, in order that we might live. When Jesus takes the cup and says this is, “my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins”, he is saying that the ultimate promises of God are being fulfilled through the giving of his life. People would no longer have to approach God through sacrifices over-and-over again, but Jesus would become for us the ultimate sacrifice in order that we would be acceptable in his eyes (cf. Romans 3:21-24). Jesus is opening up a way that the problems of our sin can be dealt with once-and-for-all. How do we connect with this extraordinary gift of grace? Simply by accepting what Jesus has done for us and trusting in him as Lord. That's what we should be reminded of every single time we share in the Lord's Supper: looking back with great thanks to God for what Jesus has done; looking forward with great anticipation of his return. Jesus' death wasn't defeat, but the greatest victory for all humankind. AL Questions Do you find anything surprising about this event? What do the bread and wine at the Lord's Supper symbolise? Why was it necessary for Christ's blood to be shed in order that forgiveness could be won? Prayer Heavenly Father, thank you so much for your faithfulness and that through Jesus we can be confident of forgiveness. Thank you that Jesus was willing to go to the cross. Please help us to accept his sacrifice and trust in him. Amen

Over the next thee days we'll slowly reflect on the last meal that Jesus shared with his disciples before going to the cross. In a manner reminiscent of Jesus' instructions to the disciples prior to his entry into Jerusalem (cf. Matthew 21), Jesus now gives some mysterious instructions to the disciples about how to find the venue to celebrate the Passover meal. Every year, the disciples would have celebrated the Passover as a commemoration of the Israelites miraculous rescue out of Egypt by God. They had celebrated this meal every year of their lives. They had no cause to think that this would be any different, but something about Jesus' instructions and that his appointed time is near should have indicated that this would be a Passover with a difference. What comes next would have taken the disciples by surprise as Jesus announces that one of them, one of their own fellow brothers, would betray their Lord. Whilst the reader of Matthew has already been privy to Judas' premeditated betrayal (verses 14-16), this would have been a huge shock to all who were present. The disciples are sad, they can't fathom who it might be and they're worried that it could be them. But of course, we know: it's Judas. Judas, in a last-ditched act of hypocrisy, even tries to deny it to Jesus' face. But Jesus knows Judas' heart, and he knows ours, too. Yet even in the knowledge of Judas' sin, even with the power to escape from the clutches of the authorities, Jesus will willingly go to the cross so that even the darkest sin of our lives can be forgiven, if only we put our trust in him. AL Questions What do you think the disciples were expecting of this meal? Do you think that you would ever be capable of betraying Jesus? Why does Jesus still go to the cross even though he had the power to escape the authorities? Prayer Gracious God, thank you for going to the cross so that even our darkest sin may be forgiven. Please help us to cling to you and follow you faithfully with our lives. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

The hypocrisy of Judas is staggering. Having just criticised a women's sacrificial and generous act as “wasteful”, he now betrays his Lord for a measly thirty pieces of silver. It's hard to know what motivated Judas in such an audacious and intentional act of betrayal, but it's clear that he has succumbed to temptation and is now an integral part of Jesus' enemies plans to kill him. It's important to note that Judas, in some knowledge that the religious leaders wanted Jesus arrested, proactively goes to them, establishes a price, and accordingly tenders his services. The religious leaders weren't sure of how they would arrest Jesus without causing a riot, but now the solution - in the form of one of Jesus' own “insiders” - has literally walked in their door. Whilst the religious leaders had intended to wait until after the Passover to arrest Jesus, Judas' offer now means that their plans for Jesus' demise can be accelerated. As we reflect on Judas' act, we can be quick to think that we would have identified him as ‘the one who would betray' all along. But we shouldn't kid ourselves! When Jesus warned the disciples that one of them would betray him, no one immediately turns and pronounces, “A-ha! I knew he would!” No, the work of evil was much more insidious that even a follower of Jesus, someone whom others trusted as a disciple of the Lord, could so easily sell out to satisfy their own motivations (whatever they may be). It's a great warning to us to be on guard against temptation, but especially that which causes us to place our own desires above God's plans. AL Questions What are the possible reasons that Judas may have had to betray Jesus? What are the desires that you are tempted to place above God's plans? When are you tempted to walk away from the following the Lord? Prayer Heavenly Father, please help us to stick to Jesus, even when things don't seem to be going according to our plans. Please help us to trust you, whatever the circumstance, that we may be loyal disciples. Please forgive us when we fall short and help us to keep looking to you. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

The disciples are still confused about the road that lies ahead for Jesus. Despite Jesus warning them time-and-time again, they just haven't truly understood that he must go to the cross in order to save the world. But Mary (who is not named here, but features in John 12:1-3), in this extraordinary act of generosity and beauty, anticipates Jesus' death much to the indignation of those watching on! It's important to understand that carved jars of perfume like this would have been extraordinarily expensive. That's evident in the response by all of the disciples - they're indignant, which means that they're angry at the “waste” that they're witnessing. But of course they only think that this is a waste because they don't understand the significance of the act. And so, aware of their response, Jesus says, this isn't a waste for, “the poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have me”. Jesus' point is of course not that we shouldn't prioritise the needs of the poor and the use of our resources (that's evident all throughout Matthew), but that the woman is recognising what is right before them: that Jesus is God's anointed one who will die in service of God's mission to the world! The disciples thought that act brought no honour to God, when in reality she has greatly honoured her Lord! The disciples thought that she had done something of no significance, yet Jesus tells them that it's of such great significance that it will be told alongside the Gospel throughout the world. Jesus' death wasn't a failure or an unanticipated outcome. It was God's gracious and loving plan that has brought us life. As we seek to follow Jesus, he doesn't require us to always understand, but he does call us to be faithful. I'm so thankful to God for the obedience of Mary, who even at great cost, was willing to recognise the identity and mission of our Lord. AL Questions If you witnessed this event, how do you think you would have responded? What makes this action so extraordinary? Prayer Heavenly Father, we thank you for your costly and extravagant gift to us through your Son. Please help us to lay our lives down for you, whatever it takes, that we might recognise you for the King who you are. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Whilst the agenda of the religious leaders to kill Jesus has been evident from relatively early on in Matthew (cf. Matthew 12), the time has now come for them to execute their plan. Don't miss just how intentional this action is. The Jewish leaders, many of whom were Roman puppets, are in the palace of the High Priest, scheming as to how they can now bring their plans to completion. However, there's just one problem: they don't want to do it during the time of the festival and run the risk of stirring up the crowds. As has been evident time-and- time again, the religious leaders appear to have no real desire to test the veracity of Jesus' claims, and are far more concerned with their own self- preservation and maintaining of power! However, Jesus knows - and has shared with others - that he will indeed be arrested and die during the time of the Passover. That as the Jews had celebrated this festival every year as a reminder of God liberating them from Egypt, this will be a Passover to not forget as the world is liberated from the ultimate enemy through Jesus' death. That just as the lamb was slaughtered at the first Passover (and each year as a commemoration), Jesus will become the ultimate sacrificial lamb to purchase us forgiveness and victory over sin and death. The religious leaders will think they've put a stop to Jesus of course, but God will use it to rescue the world. AL Questions Why do you think the religious leaders were so disinterested in honestly evaluating the claims of Jesus? Why did the religious leaders think that there was a risk of a riot being incited by Jesus' arrest? What does this say about his popularity? How would then religious leaders avoid a riot? Prayer Gracious God, thank you that Jesus is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! Thank you that despite the evil intentions of some, that you were bringing your plan for salvation to completion through Jesus' death and resurrection. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

There are no second chances after death. Punishment is real, death is permanent, and judgment is final. Those who are on Jesus left here in the passage are described as those who are cursed and they are told to depart, to leave the presence of Jesus and into the eternal fire. This fire has been prepared for the devil, for his subjects for their ultimate destruction, and those who aren't part of the sheep are sent there as well. Why? Because they didn't turn to Jesus and they didn't produce fruit. They didn't have love for God or others, and their rejection of the poor and the least constituted a rejection of Jesus himself. This isn't about works based unrighteousness but of the condition of their heart towards God. These people will go ‘away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.' If these verses don't leave us shaking in our boots or slightly uneasy then we haven't read them closely enough. We have to acknowledge that the permanent judgment and punishment of those who reject Jesus is a hard truth that we have to face but it is just. Everyone has had an opportunity to turn to Jesus and to bare fruit but rejecting the opportunity, scorning it, and turning away from God's grace deserves judgment. Moreover, if people claim to be followers of the Lord and don't demonstrate a life that is in keeping with their claim, then they too deserve judgment. Even though modern society rejects this notion, there are only two ways to live and there is no middle ground. You either live with him as King over the entirety of your life, repent, and submit to him, or you don't. There is no more important decision in a person's life than whether to turn to Jesus for it determines our eternal destiny. MC Questions What place does Jesus have in your life? Is there an area in your life where you haven't submitted to him as King? How should this doctrine motivate us to share Jesus on our frontlines? Prayer Almighty God, you do not desire the death of a sinner but that all should turn to Christ and live. Lord have mercy and bring our friends or family who don't know you into a saving relationship with you. Give us wisdom and boldness to speak of you on our frontlines so that others may repent and believe. Amen.

As I am writing this devotional, the clouds are looking a deep grey, the birds are chirping, and Toowoomba is a deep and lush green. However, a few month ago this wasn't the case. It was dry, dusty, and dirty. The land didn't stand a chance of bearing fruit. The author to the Hebrews writes, metaphorically, that such a land is in danger of being cursed. Bearing the fruit of good works for Jesus is so very important as we have seen all throughout the week and lives that don't bear the fruit are in danger of being cursed. The author is reassuring the recipients that there are better things than a fruitless cursed life. He is sure of them bearing fruit that is line with their salvation. In verse 10 he writes that they have done good work and shown love for God's name in serving other Christians. What we do for one another should come from an overflowing of God's love for us but it is also an act of love for God. For when we love one another, we are acting like the church was designed to act and this honours, glorifies, and loves God. Because God is just, we won't disregard such things. He sees the inner workings of our hearts and our motivations and we will be judged in accordance with our actions and his mercy. So we are urged on to not be lazy or sluggish but to imitate those saints who have gone before us, and this will give us full assurance of eternal life. Our actions give us a reassurance and a confirmation of our election and salvation, they are the fruit of the Spirit that has been planted in us by God's amazing grace. MC Questions At the moment, what does it look like for you to serve your brothers and sisters in Christ? How is our service of each other not just out of love for each other but also an act of love shown towards God? What do good works have to do with assurance? Prayer Heavenly Father, you alone are perfectly just and merciful. Thank you for your salvation and love given to us in Jesus and give us the same heart of love towards our brothers and sisters and our neighbours, so that your name will be glorified as a result of our good deeds. We pray in Jesus' Name, Amen.

I wonder if you've ever been thanked for doing something you can't actually recall doing? Maybe you took a meal to them a long time ago, or sent a card, or maybe you smiled and had a conversation with someone who needed it! Needless to say, it's always surprising when this happens as it does occasionally. As we return to Matthew, the people in this passage are surprised. Jesus has been telling them that they were able to enter into the kingdom and their good works towards him was a testament to that fact. In recognition with their already right place with God, Jesus refers to them as ‘the righteous'. Now they reply saying things along the lines of, “Jesus, when did all this happen? We don't recall clothing you, feeding you, or visiting you in prison.” The answer is that whatever they did for the least of people, they did for Jesus. When Jesus was on earth, he didn't live the life of a rockstar but he had no real home, no pillow, and not much in the way of possessions. He also hung out with people who were poor and destitute. He knows what it is like to be hungry and to be thirsty and so whatever we do for people in need, we do it for him. The surprise of the people is worth noting. If you were really working hard to be selected in the Australian cricket team, you would work on your drills, fitness, accuracy, and much more for a long time. When you are selected you shouldn't be overly surprised because you put all that hard work in! The righteous are surprised because they weren't doing good works in order to earn themselves a way into the kingdom, but as a response to being made right with God by his grace. The same goes for us. Our good works come from us following the way of Jesus. Bearing fruit therefore is the result of the Spirit, not out of an intention of earning us a place. We have already been granted a place and so our lives should reflect the way God has dealt with us with compassion and grace. MC Questions What has been the role of good works and helping the needy in your walk with God? As a result of his mercy, does this need realigning? Prayer Loving Lord, thank you for the example of Jesus and your compassion and mercy poured out for us upon the cross. Help us to follow him and imitate him as Lord and King over our lives. In his name we pray, Amen.

If you were to plant seeds that claim to be for an orange tree, you would expect this tree to produce oranges and not apples. If it does produce apples, you've got some problems! Likewise, if we have been given the Holy Spirit planted in us then we would expect our lives to reflect what has been given us. This is what Paul tells us in our passage today. Identifying things that don't reflect the presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives isn't particularly hard. We know when we have lived according to the sinful desires of our flesh. We know when we have perverted God's design for our lives and while the list that Paul gives us isn't exhaustive, it is pretty comprehensive. We have inherited our sinful nature from the original sin of Adam in the garden and if we continue like this, we will not inherit the kingdom of God. If we live our lives constantly in sin and not in line with the Spirit, then we are not worthy of entrance into the kingdom. But what does a life lived in line with the Spirit look like? It looks like the fruit of the Spirit which are love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. These qualities are what arise from killing off fleshly desires and living a life in step with the Spirit as people who belong to Christ. This isn't about trying really hard to be joyful or trying really hard to be kind, however this is about rejecting those sinful things which our flesh craves and then investing our time in our relationship with the Lord. Having done these things, the fruit will naturally arise. MC Questions Where in your life are you vulnerable to capitulating to the sinful desires of your flesh? What is the antidote? What is the difference between ‘living in step with the Spirit' and ‘trying harder?' Prayer Almighty God, give us the grace and willingness to crucify our desires and cut them off completely. We are sorry for when we haven't lived according to your standards. Please forgive us. Bring forth in our lives the fruits of the Spirit so that we may live our lives as a testament to your mercy. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

The king has come, the nations have been gathered and separated, and now we await the judgment of the one on the throne. The sheep are on Jesus' right, the place of honour, and here he addresses them. These people have been blessed by God and are told to take their inheritance, the kingdom that has been prepared for them. Since the stars started shining, the world began turning, and cells became living, eternal life had been prepared for these blessed people. It had all been God's plan for salvation from the very beginning of creation and it wasn't a plan B. These people have been blessed already and not because of any merit of their own but by God's own graciousness. However, these people have also done things. Their lives have displayed evidence of them being blessed with entrance into the kingdom. The whole of the Bible testifies to the fact that salvation is by grace alone and not by good works but some people have suggested that Jesus is preaching about a works-based righteousness here. This simply cannot be the case here and it isn't. What this passage shows us is that lives lived in congruence with one's blessings is critically important. To be called a child of God warrants behaviour like a child of God. The claim to follow the one who cared for the hungry, the thirsty, the poor, the sick, and the imprisoned must be proven by the imitation of this person's actions. If we claim to be in a relationship with Jesus, to have him as King over our lives, we must back that claim up with evidence. For a life that is lived with good works isn't a life that warrants or deserves entrance to the Kingdom but is a life which shows evidence of a person's submission to the gracious and loving King. MC Questions How and why are the sheep able to enter the Kingdom? What is the role of their good works? Prayer Heavenly Father, thank you for your blessings in calling us your people, in giving us assurance of eternal life through Jesus, and your foreknowledge of us. Transform our lives to be living testaments of our calling to be with your for eternity, in Jesus' Name, Amen.

We don't often like talking about judgment. It's not exactly the topic of polite dinner conversation. It can make people feel uneasy and awkward but this shouldn't be the case. Yes, it should make us fear the Lord and cast ourselves upon his grace, but it shouldn't make us awkward. Jesus spoke freely about the coming judgment and this week we'll examine how people are separated at the final judgment. Some people will be put on Jesus' left, and others on Jesus' right. We've spent a number of weeks looking at what will happen in the lead up to Jesus' coming again and how we do not know when he will but here in this passage we will see what will happen when Jesus returns. When the Son of Man comes, when Jesus comes, it will be absolutely glorious. Jesus alone is the one who his holy, who is clean before God, and he has complete authority. This time he won't be coming in riding on a donkey but on the clouds of heaven and will be seated in his rightful place on the throne. This throne isn't one of an earthly king that is temporarily used and then put into a museum but an eternal throne. The one who sits on this throne has eternal authority over the whole creation and there is only one person who is worthy of sitting in such a place and that is Jesus. Before him, all people will be gathered. Every person from every nation, from every age, from every century will be brought before the throne for judgment. This judgment is perfect, this judgment will be final, and this judgment is good. MC Questions What are some of the ideas of the final judgment that you have heard? Why does the idea of judgment make some people uncomfortable? What makes the judgments of Jesus perfect and good? Prayer Heavenly Father, you alone are the one who sees all. Your wisdom is infinite, your justice is just, and your judgements are perfect. Expose our hearts and help us to put aside our pride and submit to your judgment. Give us insight as we examine ourselves, forgive us our sins, and transform our lives to be lived for you alone. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

We explore the Parable of the Growing Seed in Mark 4 to explore further the concept of being faithful workers for God's purposes. This parable is found between the Parable of the Sower and the Parable of the Mustard Seed, this context revealing the interplay between faith, our own actions and God's role in growing the Kingdom of God. In this parable, the farmer is responsible for the planting of the seeds. Regardless of the farmer's subsequent activities, the seeds sprout, grow and produce grain. In fact, the farmer doesn't understand how this happens. “All by itself”, rather than the result of the farmer's skill and hard work, a rich harvest is collected. As we wait for our Lord's return, we are called to continue to sow the seed of the Word by sharing the good news of Jesus on our frontlines. However, the success and growth of the seed, and therefore the kingdom of God in this world, does not ultimately depend on us. We plant the seed, but God causes it to grow. Paul reminds the Corinthians of this important fact: “So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow” (1 Corinthians 3:7). Even though, like the farmer in the parable, we will never fully comprehend how the seed takes root and grows in the hearts and minds of new believers, we must be faithful in sowing the seed. We have the awesome privilege of being co-workers in God's service. We may not always see the result of our labour straight away, so we must trust that God's good purposes will prevail. DR Questions How do you plant Gospel seeds on your frontlines? How do you feel when you don't see immediate results from your Gospel work? How could you become a more confident co-worker in God's service? Prayer Almighty Father, we thank-you that are ultimately responsible for the growth of your kingdom. Help us to be faithful co-workers who plant gospel seeds on our frontlines. Give us hope when we encounter cynicism and help us to persevere when we face opposition. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

The conclusion of the Parable of the Talents reveals very clearly the consequences of not being faithful with the work entrusted to us by God. The outcome for the third servant contrasts starkly with that of the first two servants. The third servant, who received one talent, explains that he was so fearful of not meeting the master's expectations, that he buried the gold and then returns it to the master. The master is angry, explaining that, at the very least, the servant could have made some interest if he deposited the money with the bankers. The master takes the talent and gives it to the first servant, and throws the third servant outside into the darkness. The third servant seems to be upset about two things. The first issue, though unsaid, is that he received less than the first two servants. It is unhelpful to compare one's own gifts with others because these gifts come from God and there will always be someone who is more gifted than ourselves. We need to learn to be content with our gifts and abilities. The second issue is that the master wanted to earn income through the work of others. We are called to be faithful workers for God's kingdom in response to God's amazing generosity and Christ's saving work on the cross. On a positive note, those who are faithful workers will be rewarded with more responsibility and more opportunities to work for the Gospel. It is important to remember that this reward does not bring glory to themselves, but is meant to glorify God. DR Questions Do you fear that God's expectations are too high for you to meet? Have you identified the gifts and talents given to you by God? How can the church encourage you to identify your gifts and talents and enable you to use them on your frontline? Prayer Loving God, we are sorry for the times we don't trust in your kindness and generosity. Help us to recognise our gifts and abilities...help us to not bury them in the ground and forget them. Instead, help us to be faithful with all that you have entrusted to us. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Over the next two days, we explore the third of the parables concerning being prepared for Jesus' return. Readiness for Jesus' return here means faithfulness in doing the work he has called us to do. Jesus emphasises the importance of being good stewards of the gifts, talents, and responsibilities that we have been given. A wealthy master shares his wealth amongst three servants, one receives five talents, the second receives two talents, and the third receives one talent. While the master is away, the first two servants are dedicated and industrious, and double what they started with. When the master returns, he is happy with both of these servants and rewards them with the words, “I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness” (v.21). It is important to note that the master was fair: the second servant was not expected to make as much money as the first because he started with a smaller amount. It seems likely that the master knew which servants had the greatest ability and would work the hardest. The master expected the servants to show at least some industry and work to the best of their ability. As Christians, we are each given gifts and talents, be they natural abilities, spiritual gifts, financial resources, or positions of influence. God expects us to use these to the very best of our ability to build up the people of God and to influence the communities in which we live so that God's Kingdom can advance and grow. DR Questions What “talents” has God given you? How do you use these gifts to build up the church and make a difference in the world? How can you encourage others to be faithful in the exercise of their talents? Prayer Generous God, we thank you for the gifts and talents you have given each one of us and the opportunities you give us to use them on our various frontlines. Help us to follow the example of the first two servants - help us to be diligent and faithful workers for your kingdom. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Today, we reach the conclusion of the parable of the ten bridesmaids. We see the blessings for those who were prepared and the consequences for those who were not. While five of the bridesmaids were hurriedly acquiring more oil for their torches, the bridegroom finally arrived and the five prepared bridesmaids went in to the wedding feast with the groom, and the door was shut. When the others arrived back with their torches lit, the groom refused to let them in, saying, “Truly I tell you, I don't know you.” (v.12) The foolish bridesmaids were not excluded simply because the door was locked, nor because the host did not actually recognise them, but because they had insulted the bride and groom as well as their relatives. To participate in a wedding in this role was a great honour, so to spoil the wedding for their friends by failing to do their part was a great insult to everyone else at the wedding. Wedding feasts were synonymous with joy. Jesus used the language of wedding feasts to represent what eternal life with him would be like. Those who are prepared for his coming will enjoy the blessings of the eternal wedding feast, while those who are not ready will be shut out. This is an important reason to share the Gospel with those on our frontlines, be they family, friends or work colleagues, so they, too, can be prepared for the groom. DR Questions Do you think the five unprepared bridesmaids should have been excluded from the wedding feast? What habits help you to stay ready for Jesus' return? How can you help others on your frontline to be prepared for Jesus' return? Prayer Dear Lord, we thank you for the promise of the eternal wedding feast. Help us to be ready so that we can enter in with Jesus. Help us to rely on all Jesus has done and not try to earn our way in. Help us to be watchful and ready while we help others to be ready as well. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Since the time of Jesus' coming is unknown, we must watch and be ready. This parable concerning the ten bridesmaids again focusses on being ready for the Son of Man. Ten bridesmaids are waiting for the arrival of the bridegroom. The bridegroom is delayed, and the bridesmaids fall asleep. Suddenly, the impending arrival of the groom is announced. The bridesmaids awake, five being prepared with extra oil whilst the other five have run out of oil. This portion of the parable ends with the wise bridesmaids refusing to share their oil with the foolish ones. Wedding processions usually took place at night and, therefore, required light. In traditional weddings of the time, messengers may have repeatedly announced the bridegroom's coming, yet it could be delayed for hours while the bride's relatives haggled over the value of the presents given to them. The failure of the five bridesmaids was not falling asleep, since all ten bridesmaids fell asleep. The issue is that some were not watchful enough to have sufficient oil - it was foreseeable that the bridegroom could be delayed. Five bridesmaids were prepared, the other five were not. It may seem unfair that the five prepared bridesmaids would not share their oil with the unprepared bridesmaids. If they had, each bridesmaid would not have had enough oil for their torches and the procession would have been ruined. Disciples of Jesus should not lose heart if Jesus does not return as quickly as we expect or want him to. All of the bridesmaids would have been ready for the groom had he arrived when they expected. It is important for us to be patient, hopeful, and prepared so that we will be ready when Jesus returns. DR Questions Does it seem unfair that the wise bridesmaids would not share their oil with the foolish ones? Instead of having sufficient oil, how can you be ready for Christ's return? Prayer Dear Heavenly Father, we thank-you that Jesus promised to return and restore all creation. Help us to wait patiently for his return and persevere in our faith. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

After Jesus encourages the disciples to “keep watch”, to be prepared, he illustrates what that means with three parables. We stay alert by living in a such a way that we would have no cause for shame if Jesus did come at any time, since he may in fact do so. The first parable concerns a servant who is given responsibility for the care of the household's servants, to “give them their food at the proper time” (v.45). The servant who is found to be doing the right thing when the master returns will be blessed. If the head servant mistreats the others and looks after their own pleasure by eating and drinking to excess, the master will punish that servant severely when he returns. Whilst directed at Israel, this parable also applies particularly to any Christian in leadership. It is clearly addressed to the disciples and to those who will follow in their steps in the ministry of feeding and shepherding the church of Jesus Christ, be they pastors, evangelists, small group leaders or Sunday school teachers. Jesus has been critical of the leadership and ministry of the Jewish religious leaders, but equally high standards will apply also to the Christian Church. All Christian leaders, whether that ministry is performed in the church, at home, or in the community, need to remember their true role as servants of the Gospel. The blessings attached to the faithful exercise of this ministry cannot be overstated. The health and welfare of the household, the church, is their responsibility and depends upon their faithful ministry. Of the ones to whom much is given, much is required. DR Questions Why is it so important for leaders and ministers of all types to be held to a higher standard of accountability? How do we continue to be servants of the Gospel when no-one is watching? Prayer Gracious Lord, we thank for the ministries that you call us to in your household, the church. Help us to serve you and the gospel as good and faithful servants. Help us to share the Gospel, to use our gifts and to persevere until your return. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

I remember clearly the weekend that our neighbours went away for the weekend and left their teenage children in charge of the family home. In predictable form, the (adult) kids had a massive party on the first night, obviously thinking that they had plenty of time to clean up prior to their parents arriving. That wasn't the case, and when the parents arrived home early (on a day and an hour that no one was expecting), the whole street heard the result! Similarly, in verses 43-44, Jesus' message is clear: if you knew your house was going to be burgled then you wouldn't have been caught by surprise, therefore, not knowing when Jesus will return should mean that we're all the more ready! And the key way in which we are to prepare for Jesus' return is to keep watch. That in the knowledge that Jesus: (a) is returning, (b) to judge the world, and (c) at an hour that no one knows, then we should be anticipating that he could return at any moment! Perhaps even before you've finished today's reflection! Does that mean that we should camp on our rooftops with telescopes pointed up into the sky? Uhh, no. But that in the knowledge of Jesus' return, we should be living as our Master expects (as per 45-51). That the way in which Jesus desires us to be living as disciples expecting his imminent return, is as faithful (trusting in him), obedient (following his will for our lives), and wise (reflecting his priorities). What does that mean? That the greater conviction that we have of Jesus' return, the more we'll be motivated to live now, in a way that would please him when he arrives. That when the Lord arrives, that he wouldn't find us living in a mess of disobedience, but seeking to please him in his absence. AL Questions How can not knowing when Jesus will return make us complacent? What do you think it looks like to live in a way that pleases the Lord? How can you have an even greater clarity of the certainty of Jesus' return? Prayer Heavenly Father, please help us to not be complacent as we await your return, but that we would instead keep watch and live lives that will please you. May the certainty of your return shape the character of our lives. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Whilst I'm not much of a gardener or horticultural expert, I always knew living in Brisbane that when we saw the Jacarandas flower, then it must mean that exam time is near! The sea of purple was a reminder that a certain time of year had arrived! Throughout this chapter, Jesus has just finished describing a range of conditions that will indicate that his return is imminent. This conditions included: the destruction of the Temple; wars and unrest; false teachers and prophets; and persecution for those who follow him. Jesus says, that just as the fig tree's leaves coming out remind us that it's summer (or the purple of the Jacarandas remind us it's exam time), that these signs should remind us that he will be returning soon. So what is the point? That the time of his return is near. How near? I have no idea! But his return draws closer everyday. That as we witness these things, and as Christians have witnessed these things for the last 2000 years, we should be hastened that Jesus' return is just around the corner. That the time is coming in which everything - except Jesus' words - will pass away! But note that this does not mean that we should madly try to identify all of the ‘signs' in order that we can predict the precise time when Jesus will return. Plenty of people try to do that, even though we're told right here (verse 36) that only our Father in Heaven knows when. It's a good warning that if anyone tries to predict the time of Jesus' return then we should be very wary of them. After all, if neither the angels nor the Son know the time, what would make anyone else think that they would have a special knowledge?! No, that's not the point. The point is that when Jesus returns, no one will be expecting it. How then should we prepare for it? Stay tuned for tomorrow. AL Questions What are the signs that Jesus is returning soon? Recognising that all of those signs have been evident for sometime, what does that mean for us today? Have you ever come across someone who tries to predict the precise date or Jesus' return? Why is this completely in error? Prayer Heavenly Father, we thank you that with every day, that Jesus' return is drawing closer. Please help us not to listen to false prophets, but to instead let the signs warned by Jesus to help shape our daily priorities. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Whilst occasionally throughout the Bible we read of people who were brought back to life (be it by the prophets, Jesus, or the apostles), we're reminded here that Jesus was unique in that he was the first to rise and not die again. That's what is meant by Jesus being described here as the “firstborn of the dead”. But note that it does not simply mean that he was the first who would be raised and not die again, but that for all who trust in him, Jesus' resurrection is also our future! That, Jesus' resurrection is the ‘firstfruits' (cf. 1 Corinthians 15:20) of a mighty harvest for all who put their trust in him. That means that the more confident that we are of Jesus' resurrection, the more confident we can be of our own because the two are inextricably linked! What amazing news! That as we put our trust in Jesus, that our future does not get bound up in death, but bound up in Jesus' victory over death meaning that we can live forever with him, as King. That of course is the image (linked to Daniel) that is referred to in verses 7-8. That Jesus is the mighty King who will come to judge the world, set things right, and save those who have put their trust in him. Sometimes when chatting with people about the great promise we can live forever, they can remark that the prospect of eternal life sounds horrible. After all, who would want to live forever in a world as we know it now full of pain, suffering, and evil? But that's not the future that is promised and that's not the future that Jesus will bring. For when Christ arrives, it will signal not only the death of death itself, but also the death of all that is evil. It is a future that is characterised by God's good and perfect rule in relationship with his people. AL Questions How confident are you that Jesus was raised from the dead? How is our resurrection fundamentally linked to Jesus' resurrection? 3. What could you do to grow in confidence that Jesus was raised? Prayer Gracious Father, how we thank you that our confidence of resurrection is based on the certainty that Jesus was raised from the dead. Please help us to grow in confidence that it might especially spur us on to share this Good News with the world, starting with our frontlines. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

If you've ever thought that confusion about the return of Jesus is just a modern problem, then it's time to think again! In fact, whilst it's clear that the very first Christians expected that Jesus would return, it's also evident that there were a range of ideas about when that event might take place. Case in point: the church in Thessalonica to whom Paul (with Silas and Timothy) wrote approximately two decades after the ascension of Jesus. Throughout the letter, Paul's primary concern is that the Thessalonians would grow in the maturity of their faith and that their misunderstanding - that Jesus would return immediately - would be corrected. This wasn't just an issue of theology, but also a pastoral issue for people who had lost loved ones before Christ had returned. Expecting that Jesus' arrival was imminent, you can imagine their confusion and fear. But Paul says, don't fear, that just as Jesus died and rose again, so too will those who have died in Christ be raised again when Jesus returns. Note that this doesn't mean that Christians do not grieve, but simply that we do not grieve like ones “who have no hope”. Why? Because we are confident that for all who trust in Jesus, death is not the end! There's a reason why this passage is so common at Christian funerals today - it's such extraordinarily comforting news! That as we await the return of Jesus, even in the face of the death of our brothers and sisters in Christ, that our grief (note, we should still grieve!) is wonderfully shaped by the anticipated future reality for which we are confident. That when that trumpet sounds, God will indeed turn tragedy into triumph and death into life, for all who trust in him. AL Questions Why do you think people were so confused about the timing of Jesus' return? Are people today ever confused about the timing of Jesus' return? How is our grief shaped by our confidence that Jesus will return? Prayer Heavenly Father, we thank you that just as Jesus died and rose again, that we can be confident that all who die in Christ, will too be raised! Please help us to share the Good News with those who we love, that they too may share in the confidence in which we rejoice. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Following from our consideration yesterday of how people have approached these verses in the past, we can now turn our minds to the actual content of the passage! And that's good, because it's a phenomenally dramatic picture. Every now and then I will hear a Christian express concern that they will somehow miss the return of Jesus - that they'll be too busy or distracted, in the wrong place at the wrong time, or just somehow unable to recognise that Jesus has returned. Well, as we see here in verses 29-31, the good news is that no one will be able to miss it! Jesus' return will be spectacular. Note that Jesus' return won't just be accompanied by lightning (as we read in verse 27) as is sometimes the case in appearances by God elsewhere in the Bible (e.g., Exodus 19:16; Ezekiel 1:13; Daniel 10:5-6), but we're told here that there will be a comprehensive darkening that will block out the sun, mourning across the entire earth, and angels with loud trumpet calls. And whilst we're not sure what is meant by “the sign of the Son of Man”, the point is clear: that the return of Jesus will be unmistakable, unable to be ignored, and all everyone will recognise just who he is. The rich and the poor, good and bad, young and old, powerful and disadvantaged, will all see Jesus clearly. The result? Not only will great mourning fall (a sign of imminent judgment), but God will gather his elect from all the earth. That is, we can have great confidence that no matter how daunting that this may seem, that those who have called upon the name of the Lord, will be saved. AL Questions Have you ever worried that you might miss (or have missed!) Jesus' return? What are the signs that will indicate that Jesus has returned? How does this have the potential to change how you live today? Prayer Saving God, thank you that no one will be able to miss the return of Jesus! Please help us to look forward to this future with a great confidence, not based on ourselves, but on the saving work of Christ. Please help us to live with a great clarity of his return, in order it might shape our priorities of today. Amen.

As people over the centuries have tried to understand these verses, there have been a number of views as to whether or not they speak of the decades surrounding Jesus' death and resurrection or the future ‘end of the age'. In support of the time after Jesus' death and resurrection (especially that relating to the fall of Jerusalem in 70AD), people have especially appealed to the reference in verse 29 of “immediately after the distress of those days,” and in verse 33, “this generation will certainly not passage away until all these things have happened”. However, this doesn't easily reconcile to other language that is clearly reference to the second coming of Jesus when he will return to judge the earth. So what are we to make of this? How best can we understand the point in time that Jesus is referring to here? First, it's important to acknowledge up front that throughout this section there's no ‘tidy' divide between Jesus speaking of both of these two points in history. It seems that Jesus not only warns of the dreadful time of judgment that will fall on Jerusalem, but that this event is also in some way a lens through which we can understand the time when he will return. Second, it's overwhelmingly evident (particularly by the parables that follow) that Jesus' primary concern is that the knowledge of his return would significantly shape the choices that we make today. Jesus warns us of the certainty of his return (more on that tomorrow as we re-look at these verses) in order that we would hold fast to him and thus be found appropriately waiting. Whilst the descriptors of this cataclysmic time can make us feel dread, these verses can actually fill us with great confidence that Jesus will indeed save his elect who have put their trust in him. AL Questions How does the knowledge of Jesus' return shape how you live today? What parts of these verses reassure you that you won't miss Jesus' return? 3. Who are God's elect? What can give us confidence that Jesus will gather us? Prayer Heavenly Father, we thank you that we can look forward to Jesus' return with great confidence, not because of our goodness, but because of your mercy! Please help us to stand firm in Christ, that the knowledge of his return would shape the life choices and priorities that we make today. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Today we return to Matthew where Jesus is still speaking to his disciples and now he spells it out to them that if people are claiming to have seen the Messiah, don't believe them! Why? Because it's just not true! His disciples aren't to go rushing around panicking and trying to find the returned Lord Jesus, or going all around the countryside looking for him because when he returns, they will know. As we've seen there will be great distress before Jesus comes again, but when he comes, we won't be distracted by anything else, we will know. So just like the disciples, we aren't to go chasing around myths of the retuned Jesus! Anyone who we would find is a liar! When he returns Jesus won't be hidden, it won't be a secret, and there will be no doubt. It will be as obvious as bright lightning on the horizon and it will be as obvious as birds picking at roadkill by the side of the road. The main point of all of this is that anyone who claims to be the returned Jesus is a fraud and a false prophet so don't chase after them! We can have complete confidence in the truth that Jesus is Lord and will come again so stand firm and resist the temptations to seek out these myths. In Australia today there aren't many people claiming to be the returned Jesus but there are some who try to find out dates and small details through endless numerology and etymology. While these things may not be harmful at first, they can so quickly turn our eyes from Jesus to our efforts to try and look for him! So let us not be distracted but continue in the truth of the Gospel and work for God's glory as we await the return of our great king. MC Questions Have you heard any accounts of people claiming to be the returned Jesus? What has been the end result of things? How can you throw off distractions and keep your eyes fixed on Jesus? Prayer Heavenly Father, we thank you that you are a God who keeps his promises. Thank you for the promise that Jesus will come again and bring in the kingdom in its fulness. Help us not to be distracted but to keep on working for you. Amen.

The Thessalonians were still faithfully following God, responding to their election and believing the truth. As a result of these great things, Paul gives thanks to God because of their faithfulness which has persevered even through trial, testings, and questions! He is so thankful for God's work through them and on the back of these thanksgivings, Paul urges them and prays for them to continue, to hold fast onto the truth and to find their foundations in it. Similarly here today, if you are reading this, I give great thanks to God for you! It is so encouraging to see people persevering in their relationship with Jesus from all different backgrounds and experiences. I also want to urge us all to keep on going and building our lives on the firm foundation of the truth of the Gospel and to never let it go. In the 21st century it seems that truth is up for grabs. It seems that people can believe whatever they want. People dismiss Christianity because it claims to be the only true way to God and they almost find it offensive! However, we can be sure that God has revealed himself to us and that his promises are sure through Jesus Christ. So we keep on going but in the knowledge that we can't do this by ourselves. We can't possibly live the Christian life by ourselves and on our own merit but only by the grace of God. Some of this we can witness already (such as the church), but some of this is internal such as God's transforming work by the Spirit who encourages us, strengthens us, and points us to Jesus. So just like Paul prayed for the Thessalonians, we should pray for us and each other that we would be constantly encouraged, that we would stay firm, and hold onto the truth no matter the circumstances and in the face of Satan's schemes. MC Questions Specifically, what things encourage you in your walk with God? How are you going in your faith at the moment? What could you do right now to help your faith stay firm for your lifetime? Prayer Faithful God, we give you great thanks and praise for your work in and through us. Give us your eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage our hearts, and strengthen is in every good deed and word. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

As we saw yesterday, today we are again exhorted to not panic but to keep on trusting the Lord in the face of testing times, especially at the coming of the Lord. Paul tries to jog the memory of the Thessalonians asking them if they remember how he was telling them these things when he was there in person with them. However, he still feels the need to clarify these things about the end times, specifically here about the man of lawlessness. Before Christ comes, this person is going to be revealed but at the moment he is being held back. In the meantime, some of this power of darkness is at work. It's almost like a dam that is being held by the wall but some water is leaching out. We are told that he will be released by the authority God. When he is released however, he will be quickly defeated and overthrown by Jesus. It's no struggle, there is no epic battle, but Jesus is victorious. His power is so mighty that all he needs to do is speak a word and this person is crushed. His splendour is so great that all he needs to do is stand in the room and the darkness and evil is lightened and destroyed. But this won't be before this person has had some leeway. People will be deluded, deceived, and condemned as a result of his work similar to the work of Satan and God will hand them over to their wickedness because they have rejected the love and grace that he has offered them. Our purpose and our warning is to not be deceived by such lies. All that we hear, all that we learn we must test and see if it is inline with God's word no matter what source we hear it from. We aren't to do things out of panic but as a measure to avoid the traps of the evil one. Satan will do all he can to divert our eyes and attention from the truth, but we can resist him because we are God's chosen people, we have his Spirit dwelling within us, and we have his word to us. Let us keep on holding onto and contending for the truth of the Gospel. MC Questions How are we to react when we come across teaching that is deceptive? Prayer Heavenly Father, we thank you that you will have the final word on evil. Help us to resist and flee from Satan's schemes and to hold onto your truth. Amen.

‘Don't be alarmed!' These three words can be so simple but also so hard to pay attention to. When things are unclear or not the way that we would have them to be, it is easy to become panicked and alarmed because we aren't in control. When it comes to the coming of the Lord, we aren't in control and we don't have a minute by minute schedule of what is going to happen exactly. Because of this, it is all too often that Christians around the world try and take control by making things happen to try and trigger the coming of the Lord, or try and predict the date of when he will come because it's human nature to find comfort and security in knowledge. On the other hand, Paul writes to the church in Thessalonica to find comfort in the fact that Jesus will come again, so don't panic but stand firm. He asks them, “not to become easily unsettled or alarmed by teaching allegedly from us.” Is seems that there were people trying to trick the Thessalonians into thinking that Jesus had already come. However, Paul reassures them that this isn't the case. Before Jesus comes, Paul describes a time when there will be rebellions and the ‘man of lawlessness' is revealed. The identity of this man isn't revealed but we are told that he will exult himself completely, he will put himself in place of God, and he will proclaim that he is God. We aren't told how this will exactly work out but perhaps that isn't Paul's point. Paul's point is to reassure the Thessalonians that there will be testing times ahead and when they come, they aren't to panic but to trust in the one who is ultimately in control, Jesus. MC Questions What can cause you to become unsettled or alarmed? Why shouldn't we be alarmed when come out with all types of theories about the coming of the Lord? How should we react? What is the ultimate hope that we have when Jesus comes again? Prayer Gracious and Loving God, who has promised to return; thank you that your promises are sure and that we can trust in them, knowing that only your word is firm. Help us to not panic about things we don't or can't know but to investigate them clearly, and trust in your wisdom above ours. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Yesterday we saw that there were going to be horrors in the Temple and now Jesus picks up that here in this passage. Jesus describes a series of horrific events that will occur when the disciples see, ‘the abomination that causes desolation' which is a direct quote from Daniel. Scholars have commonly noted that Daniel's vision was a prediction of Antiochus IV, the Syrian king who slaughtered a pig on the altar reserved for burnt offerings to the Lord and set up a statue of Zeus on the altar in the Temple. This would have been an absolute horror for the Israelite worshippers at that time as pigs were ceremonially unclean, and a statue of another god was in the place of the Lord. However, this all happened in 167BC so Jesus couldn't have been referring to this exact occurrence but he sees a further fulfilment of the vision of Daniel. In 70AD, the Temple was completely destroyed and was used by the Romans to sacrifice to their gods and in the years of the early church there was intense persecution. Here, Jesus seems to be referring to both of these periods at once. He warns his disciples that there will be great, unequalled distress and that those times will be dreadful but the hope is that it won't last forever and that Jesus knows this suffering and pain. He has warned his disciples and that he himself will experience great torment, pain, and distress through his victory on the cross. As we read these verses our hearts can be heavy and filled with sorrow and that is very appropriate. Suffering and distress is real and it will accompany the coming of Jesus. However, this all isn't without hope and those days won't last. There is something greater and better coming. Jesus will come again and put an end to all suffering and all distress and will bring justice to those who bring torment and suffering. Our role is to stand firm knowing that he is in control. MC Questions In the midst of pain and suffering, how can you stand firm in Jesus? What difference does it make knowing that Jesus will ultimately have the victory? Prayer Heavenly Father, who knows and sees all things, help us when we are in distress to look to you, to stand firm in you, and trust you in all things, Amen.

Today we are stepping back from Matthew for some context, specifically we are going to look at Daniel. A lot of what Jesus refers to in the later chapters of Matthew has its background in these later chapters of Daniel. In the time of exile, it seemed like there was no hope for Israel. The nation was carted off to Babylon and whatever that was left in the land was in ruins. God had enacted his judgment on his people. However, even in this time, there were people who were still faithful to the Lord, who were repentant. Daniel was one of these people. Earlier in this chapter, Daniel had been pleading for God to show mercy to his people. While Daniel was praying, the angel Gabriel came and gave him a vision and this is where we land here today. A time frame is set up of ‘Seventy ‘sevens'' or seventy weeks. Now we have to remember that this is apocalyptic literature so we shouldn't take this as a literal time frame but as a whole period of time. This is because seven represented wholeness or completion. In this time period, Jerusalem will be rebuilt and the ‘Anointed One' or the Messiah will come! However, there will be times of trouble. The ‘Anointed One' will be put to death and have nothing, and the city will be once again raised to the ground. In the Temple there will be an abomination, a horror, something detested, and something absolutely appalling. Eventually, the Temple was rebuilt and the Anointed One, Jesus Christ did come but was cut off, having been cut off from the Father at his death on the cross. Some years later, there were absolute horrors occurring in the Temple in 70AD. Daniel was waiting for the restoration of the Temple and a mighty warrior Messiah, but this vision shows us that his hope and ours shouldn't be in a Temple made of stone but it is to be fixed on Jesus. Jesus who is the true Temple and whose kingdom will never fall by human hands, but will last forever. MC Questions What kingdoms or idols are we tempted to put our faith in today? How is Jesus' kingdom greater than anything built by human hands? Prayer Almighty God, you alone are just and you are to be feared. Thank you that you are sovereign over all and help us not to trust in human forces or schemes but ultimately in you alone. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Whilst in Australia we experience relative freedom to follow Jesus, this is not necessarilly the case for many Christians globally today. In fact, the Barnabas Fund estimates that up to one in ten Christians around the world face pressure and persecution, ranging from everyday harassment and discrimination to violent attack. Of course, this is not something new, but has been the case from the very first followers of Jesus (which we can read about in the New Testament) and extends right up to today. Should we be abhorred by this? Of course! However, should we be surprised by this? No. Why? Because Jesus warned his disciples that this would be the case, that we shouldn't expect the road to be easy, and that before he returns that many will suffer for their trust in him. Why does Jesus want us to know this? So that we would not turn away from what we believe, so that we would stand firm to the end and be saved. That's the precise sort of conviction that Jesus desires in us! It's the precise sort of conviction evident in so many martyrs who have gone before us. That we wouldn't be swayed by the difficulties that we face, nor seduced by the comfortable lies whispered of the deceiver, but that we would hold fast to the Gospel, no matter the cost. That's why Jesus is warning the disciples. He wants them to know, that when things get tough (which they certainly will), that this is not a sign that God's plans have failed, but that the end is drawing closer and that we can have confidence that God will prevail. That we should pray that the Gospel will be proclaimed, that we will be enabled to face difficulty with confidence, and that we would pray that those who are persecuted would stand firm in Christ alone. AL Questions If you were to face persecution, what would help you to stand firm? Do you know of anywhere in the world in which persecution of Christians is common? How might you regularly pray for the persecuted church? Prayer Heavenly Father, we thank you that suffering and persecution is not the end, but that you will bring true justice to the world. Please help us, and especially those who face persecution, to stand firm in Christ and proclaim the Gospel to the world. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

The Temple was a phenomenally impressive building, grand in stature and stunning in beauty. Thus, for Jesus to predict that the Temple would one day be completely destroyed would have been extremely difficult for the disciples to believe. How would that be possible? When would it occur? What would be the signs? These are the types of questions that would have been on the disciples hearts, and they are the precisely the types of questions that they later ask Jesus as they sit on the Mount of Olives (remember, the very place that was a reminder that God's King and judgment would arrive one day). But as Jesus answers the question - a response that we'll take some time to unpack as this section speaks of both the destruction of the Temple (which happens in 70AD) and his later second coming - it's critical to note that Jesus is less concerned with precise details (i.e., dates and places) and more concerned with his disciples being ready - that we would stick to him, not be deceived, live consistently (even amidst trouble), and be found ready when he returns. So often when we think of Jesus' return, we can be caught up in trying to ‘decode' signs rather than focusing our lives on being found ready. This sort of thinking can develop into an unhealthy fixation that leads us into distraction or deception. That is, when we're more concerned with predicting when Jesus' return, we end up distracted from the mission that Jesus has entrusted to us, and potentially susceptible to be deceived by others! Our concern should be less with precisely when the King will return, and more with the reality that he is our King right now! Questions Why do you think Jesus' warning to ‘watch out that no one deceives you' is so firm? Do you think you're ever at risk of that? How do you want to be found waiting when Jesus returns? Prayer Almighty Lord, we thank you that we can have absolute confidence that Jesus will one day return to judge and rule the world. As we wait, please help us to live lives in accordance with your will, trusting in your plans, that we would not be distracted nor deceived in the meantime. In Jesus' Name, Amen

Following his challenge to the Pharisees, Jesus now turns to the crowd and pointedly warns them about hypocrisy. This must have got the religious power-holders talking! That the religious leaders of the time failed to practice what they preached is at the heart of Jesus' critique. The problem, as Jesus makes clear, is not with the Law or their Scriptures, but with the hearts of those who have been entrusted with God's truth. God demands not just a reciting of his Word, but for our lives to authentically reflect his rule and reign. It seems that the Teachers of the Law and Pharisees were motivated by their own glory instead of God's glory! Religious hypocrisy by those who follow Jesus is of course still alive and well today. Social research in Australia notes that hypocrisy is one of the biggest ‘belief blockers' for those who don't yet follow Jesus. In recent years, it has been absolutely heartbreaking as it has been revealed of the abhorrent ways in which people entrusted with leadership in the church have betrayed and abused people whilst hiding behind positions of power. We should be greatly grieved by this, yet we should also take heed of the hypocrisy in our own lives. Often our hearts can be full of mixed motivations as we seek to serve God. Take some time today to ask God to show you any areas of hypocrisy in your own life. Lay it before the cross, seek his forgiveness, and ask for help that we might more clearly live lives that sincerely – in heart and action – follow the Lord Jesus. AL Questions Have you ever encountered hypocrisy in people who follow Jesus? How does this make you feel? Are there any areas in your life that may be incongruent with the faith in Jesus that you confess? Prayer Merciful God, please forgive us for the times in which we have been motivated by our own agenda instead of yours. Please forgive us for the ways in which we can outwardly be seen to ‘doing the right thing' yet in reality, our hearts are far from you. Thank you that you are merciful and that because of Jesus we can be assured of forgiveness. Please refresh us with your Spirit that we might more clearly orientate our hearts and lives sincerely for your glory. Amen.

Whilst we may at first glance think that this encounter between Jesus and the Pharisees is some sort of riddle, there is much more at stake. The Pharisees are attempting to put Jesus to the test with their questions. However, very quickly the tables are turned on the Pharisees, who have been busy asking questions, as Jesus effectively now asks them who they think the Messiah was. In fact, Jesus' response is a direct challenge for those gathered to recognise him as the Messiah. It was commonly anticipated that the long-awaited Messiah would be a descendant of David, however no one expected the Messiah to be God. Yet, as Jesus quotes Psalm 110 (i.e., “The Lord says to my Lord...”) he's making it abundantly apparent that the Messiah would indeed be even greater than David (after all, David calls him Lord!). This is a shocking revelation to those gathered, and as Jesus challenges their understanding of who the Messiah would be, it must have crossed at least some of their minds that Jesus was the one. No one dared to say anything in reply. No one dared to ask any more questions! Perhaps this great and glorious news was just too much for them to process, or perhaps they simply couldn't accept the reality of God when the truth was outside of their expectations. What's clear is that they were far more comfortable in discussing God in theory, rather than submitting to God with their lives. The challenge for humanity is not only to recognise the true identity of the Messiah, but to actually submit to Jesus with our lives. The Pharisees, at this stage, couldn't bring themselves to do that, but many others saw Jesus for who he was and decided to make him the Lord of their lives. How wonderful it is that God not only desires us to know about him in theory, but that we would know him personally and submit our lives to him. AL Questions Do you think you ever try to put God ‘to the test'? How would people around you recognise that Jesus is your Lord? Prayer Loving God, we thank you that you desire for us to know you and make you the centre of our lives – not just to know about you! Please help us to more clearly see Jesus for who he is, that we might rightfully enthrone him in our hearts. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Having heard Jesus speak the parable of the wedding banquet against them (Matthew 22:1-14), the Pharisees now shift from intent to action, laying out their plans to “trap him in his words”. Having responded to their question regarding the imperial tax (from the Pharisee's disciples) and then the Sadducees' question regarding marriage at the resurrection, the two groups now conspire to entrap Jesus. Whilst the groups had many differences, their shared contempt for Jesus now outweighs any other theological points of contention between them! It's a case of when, ‘your enemy's enemy becomes your friend'. United in mission, they now test Jesus with what was a commonly debated question at the time: “Which is the greatest commandment in the Law”? It's uncertain what the religious leaders were hoping for, but part of their plan may have been to push Jesus to dismiss the place of the Law. But of course, Jesus does nothing of the sort, and instead turns their question around to demonstrate that the Law shows them that the problem here is not with him, but with their hearts! Quoting from Deuteronomy 6:5 and Leviticus 19:18, to love God and love your neighbour, Jesus makes the point that these are not only at the centre of the Law and the Prophets, but that it's in him that this is perfectly fulfilled. Of course, all of Jesus' ministry has demonstrated that very claim. Whilst in contrast, the behaviour of the religious authorities has demonstrated that they're far more concerned with an outward appearance of law-fulfilment, rather than a genuine loving of God and others. This is both reassuring and challenging news! That our God is concerned not merely with an outward projected image of goodness, but the sincere condition of our hearts! Our God is not interested in how much we fake, but a life that genuinely reflects a love for him and for others. AL Questions What was the key factor that united the Pharisees and the Sadducees? How could you grow in ‘loving God' and ‘loving neighbour'? Prayer Heavenly Father, we thank you so much that you are not merely concerned with what is superficial, but the genuineness of our hearts. Please forgive us for the times we fall short. Please help us to grow in a sincere love for you and for our neighbours. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

As Jesus enters Jerusalem, it marks the beginning of a dramatic chapter of his life and ministry which reaches its culmination in his death and resurrection. Prior to entering the city, there has already been plenty of conflict. In fact, it's as early as chapter 9 in which the Pharisees start plotting how they might kill Jesus. Yet, whilst that conflict has traversed a range of topics, it has always been Jesus' identity that is at the heart of the contention. Is he really the long-awaited King? Is he truly God's Son? If anyone was unclear about the nature of his claims, that becomes increasingly transparent as he rides into Jerusalem on a donkey. Two of the disciples have obediently followed Jesus' instructions and retrieved a donkey and her colt in what must have felt like a mysterious assignment! But as Jesus rides into Jerusalem, having approached the very place that serves as a reminder of the coming of God's King and future judgment (i.e., the Mount of Olives), many would have immediately recognised the parallel of Zechariah 9 (that which Matthew quotes here) in which God's anticipated King arrives into Zion (i.e., Jerusalem!). In that moment, there's no doubt that for some people things would have become crystal clear as they witnessed this long awaited prophecy being fulfilled before their very eyes! Jesus is the King. Jesus is the one who will usher in God's Kingdom and fulfil God's promises! That's why many responded by laying down branches and cloaks, accompanying their actions with shouts of“Hosanna” which means, “Save us!”. Jesus will truly prove to be that King, however, it won't happen as they expect. For Jesus did not come to defeat the Romans (as some hoped), but to defeat our greatest enemy of sin and death. Jesus comes as the peacemaking king, to win the greatest peace that we could ever hope for through his blood - peace with God. AL Questions What is the significance of what the crowds were shouting? As humans, what is our greatest need? How does Jesus fulfil it? Prayer Heavenly Father, thank you for the Good News that Jesus is the King who fulfils, rescues, and judges. Please help us to see Jesus with a greater clarity, grow in our relationship with him, and so respond faithfully with our lives. In Jesus' Name, Amen.