Podcasts about Herodians

Inthe first 10 verses of Luke 19, we meet Jesus as the Savior who seeks the lostand we have the story of Zacchaeus, the rich tax collector who comes to faithand salvation through Jesus Christ. Then, in verse 11, we meet the master whorewards faithful servants. My friend, that's who Jesus is. He is the Savior,but he's also the master who expects us to be faithful servants. Itsays in verse 11, "Now as they heard these things, he spoke anotherparable because he was near Jerusalem and because they thought that the kingdomof God would appear immediately." Jesus is at the end of His three anda half years of earthly ministry. He's on his way to Jerusalem with hisdisciples, preaching, sharing, doing miracles, and healing people. He knowsthat He's going to be crucified, but the disciples and many others believe He isgoing to Jerusalem to set up his kingdom. Atthat time in the Jewish world, there were subversive groups like the Zealotswho used commando tactics against Rome. There were also the Herodians, Jewishpoliticians who compromised their faith to rule with the Romans over the Jewishpeople in the land of Israel. Then, you had the common people, the majority,who were looking for the fulfilment of the Old Testament prophecies for theMessiah, the King to come and set up His kingdom. That'swhy this verse says that as Jesus neared Jerusalem, He told this parablebecause they thought the kingdom of God would appear immediately. They werethinking Jesus is this possible king, the Prophet prophesied in the OldTestament, the Messiah who's come to give us a deliverer. This was at the timeof Passover, and people were flooding into Jerusalem by the thousands. Theywere looking for a deliverer, just like the Passover represented beingdelivered out of Egypt when God gave them a deliverer, Moses. Now they believedthat one like Moses would come and deliver them from the Roman rule. Theythought Jesus was that deliverer. Jesusthen tells them this story, beginning in verse 12, about “a certain noblemanwho went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom and to return. Hecalled 10 of his servants, delivered to them 10 minas, and said to them,"Do business till I come." But his citizens hated him and sent adelegation after him, saying, "We will not have this man to reign overus." When he returned, having received the kingdom, he commanded theseservants to whom he had given the money to be called to him that he might knowhow much every man had gained by trading.” Jesusis presenting a picture here. It's interesting that there were 10 servants towhom he gave 10 minas, money. In Matthew 25:14-30, Jesus tells the parable ofthe talents, and the master giving different amounts,5 to one, two to another,and one to one, to three servants. That was a picture of the gifts God giveseach of us to serve Him, and how we use those gifts will be held accountable.But here, he gave the same amount of money to ten servants and then tells howat least three of them were held accountable. We believe the application isthat Jesus gave the Word of God to all His followers today to share witheveryone we can, and we're going to be held accountable for it. Thelesson here is that God expects us to be faithful with whatever He gives us,and He will hold us accountable for our faithfulness and obedience with thegifts and the Word of God that we're to share with those around us. May theLord help us to learn this lesson well.  Itrust you will use the Spiritual gifts that God's blessed you with and also sharethe Word of God with whoever crosses your path today.

The religious leaders continue to confront Jesus revealing themselves as failed shepherds, more concerned with public opinion and preserving power than genuinely seeking truth. When they send an unlikely alliance of Pharisees and Herodians to trap Jesus with a seemingly impossible dilemma about paying Roman taxes, they expose their desperation. Their flattering approach – "Teacher, we know you are truthful" – thinly veils their attempt to force Jesus into a political no-win situation.What happens next has shaped Christian understanding of political engagement for two millennia. Jesus asks for a coin, revealing both his own lack of wealth and creating a powerful teaching moment. "Whose image is on this?" he asks, before delivering his revolutionary answer: "Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and to God what belongs to God." With elegant simplicity, Jesus transcends their false dichotomy, leaving his would-be trappers "amazed."This passage challenges prosperity gospel teachings (Jesus had no money) and those who equate holiness with poverty (Jesus had no problem with money itself). Instead, it offers a balanced, profound understanding of how believers navigate dual citizenship in earthly kingdoms while maintaining primary allegiance to God's kingdom.Dive deeper into Mark's gospel with us as we examine how Jesus masterfully teaches eternal truths while deliberately moving toward the cross that will change everything. Subscribe now to continue this journey verse by verse through Scripture.Support the showThank you for listening!! Please give us a five-star rating to help your podcast provider's algorithm spread RTTB among their listeners. You can find free study and leader resources at the following link - Resource Page - Reasoning Through the Bible Please prayerfully consider supporting RTTB to help us to continue providing content and free resources. You can do that at this link - Support RTTB - Reasoning Through the Bible May God Bless you!! - Glenn and Steve

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every single day. We are working our way through the entire Bible in what we call Project23. If you want to read more about this or get behind it, you can read about Project23 at the link in the description today. I would love to give a shout-out today to David Weiss from Stillwell, KS. Thanks for being a partner with the ministry. We cannot do what we do without the faithful support of families like yours. This is for you today! Today, we're looking at Mark 3:1-6: Again he entered the synagogue, and a man was there with a withered hand. And they watched Jesus, to see whether he would heal him on the Sabbath, so that they might accuse him. And he said to the man with the withered hand, “Come here.” And he said to them, “Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do harm, to save life or to kill?” But they were silent. And he looked around at them with anger, grieved at their hardness of heart, and said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He stretched it out, and his hand was restored. The Pharisees went out and immediately held counsel with the Herodians against him, how to destroy him. — Mark 3:1-6 Jesus walked into the synagogue, but not everyone came to worship. Imagine that worshippers came to test the teacher. They weren't there to be taught—but to trap the teacher. They also weren't concerned with the disabled man standing nearby. They were there looking for a reason to accuse Jesus. But Jesus didn't back down, and he did not change course. In fact, it did not seem to affect his presence or approach. Jesus calls the disabled man forward—right through the cold stares of the religious elite. And what could've been a moment of confrontation becomes a moment of clarity and compassion. Calling the man to him, Jesus asks one probing question: “Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do harm?” Then silence. No one said a word. And that silence broke Jesus's heart. Jesus looked at them—not with fear (as we might) but with disappointment and grief because their hearts had grown so hard. They had become so obsessed with rules they'd forgotten how to be merciful, compassionate, and loving. Then Jesus turned to the man and said, “Stretch out your hand.” And the man did. He didn't argue or hide. He simply obeyed. And in that moment, what was physically broken was made whole. Jesus didn't just heal a hand—He exposed every heart. You see, Jesus didn't just restore one man's hand. He revealed the hearts of every man in the room. One man was open to healing—and let himself be changed. The others, especially the religious elite, resisted any change at all. Their minds and hearts were darkened. Therefore, one man was left healed. The others left plotting a scandalous murder. But here's the issue: It is easy to spot legalism in others, and it's harder to see where that legalism lives in us until we are "plotting" to murder others with our attitude and actions. So here's my question to you today: Do you have a hard heart to the healing that Jesus wants to provide? Jesus is here, and he's inviting you to lay down your hard heart and receive deep healing. He's still saying: “Stretch out your hand and be made new.” ASK THIS: What stands out most to you in Jesus' question to the crowd? Why do you think silence grieved Him more than words? Where do you see the difference between a hard heart and a humble one? What's one thing Jesus may be asking you to stretch out in trust today? DO THIS: Bring one part of your life that feels weak or hidden into the light. Name it. And offer it to Jesus today in prayer. PRAY THIS: Jesus, I don't want to live with a hard heart. Soften me. Heal what's broken. Give me the courage to stretch out my weakness in faith. Amen. PLAY THIS: Healer.

To become a follower of Jesus, visit: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/MeetJesus (NOT a Morning Mindset resource) ⇒ BECOME A MONTHLY PARTNER: (not tax-deductible) You can find out how to become a monthly partner including how to receive your "thank you" gift - our bonus podcast called "Digging Deeper." God t: https://mm-gfk-partners.supercast.com/ ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Mark 3:1–6 - [1] Again he entered the synagogue, and a man was there with a withered hand. [2] And they watched Jesus, to see whether he would heal him on the Sabbath, so that they might accuse him. [3] And he said to the man with the withered hand, “Come here.” [4] And he said to them, “Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do harm, to save life or to kill?” But they were silent. [5] And he looked around at them with anger, grieved at their hardness of heart, and said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He stretched it out, and his hand was restored. [6] The Pharisees went out and immediately held counsel with the Herodians against him, how to destroy him. (ESV) ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FINANCIALLY SUPPORT THE MORNING MINDSET: (not tax-deductible) -- Become a monthly partner: https://mm-gfk-partners.supercast.com/ -- Support a daily episode: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/daily-sponsor/ -- Give one-time: https://give.cornerstone.cc/careygreen -- Venmo: @CareyNGreen -- Support our SPANISH TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportSpanish -- Support our HINDI TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportHindi -- Support our CHINESE TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportChinese  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FOREIGN LANGUAGE VERSIONS OF THIS PODCAST: SPANISH version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Spanish HINDI version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Hindi CHINESE version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Chinese  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ CONTACT: Carey@careygreen.com  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ THEME MUSIC: “King’s Trailer” – Creative Commons 0 | Provided by https://freepd.com/ ***All NON-ENGLISH versions of the Morning Mindset are translated using A.I. Dubbing and Translation tools from DubFormer.ai ***All NON-ENGLISH text content (descriptions and titles) are translated using the A.I. functionality of Google Translate. To become a follower of Jesus, visit: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/MeetJesus (NOT a Morning Mindset resource) ⇒ BECOME A MONTHLY PARTNER: (not tax-deductible) You can find out how to become a monthly partner including how to receive your "thank you" gift - our bonus podcast called "Digging Deeper." God t: https://mm-gfk-partners.supercast.com/ ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Mark 3:1–6 - [1] Again he entered the synagogue, and a man was there with a withered hand. [2] And they watched Jesus, to see whether he would heal him on the Sabbath, so that they might accuse him. [3] And he said to the man with the withered hand, “Come here.” [4] And he said to them, “Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do harm, to save life or to kill?” But they were silent. [5] And he looked around at them with anger, grieved at their hardness of heart, and said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He stretched it out, and his hand was restored. [6] The Pharisees went out and immediately held counsel with the Herodians against him, how to destroy him. (ESV) ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FINANCIALLY SUPPORT THE MORNING MINDSET: (not tax-deductible) -- Become a monthly partner: https://mm-gfk-partners.supercast.com/ -- Support a daily episode: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/daily-sponsor/ -- Give one-time: https://give.cornerstone.cc/careygreen -- Venmo: @CareyNGreen -- Support our SPANISH TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportSpanish -- Support our HINDI TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportHindi -- Support our CHINESE TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportChinese  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FOREIGN LANGUAGE VERSIONS OF THIS PODCAST: SPANISH version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Spanish HINDI version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Hindi CHINESE version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Chinese  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ CONTACT: Carey@careygreen.com  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ THEME MUSIC: “King’s Trailer” – Creative Commons 0 | Provided by https://freepd.com/ ***All NON-ENGLISH versions of the Morning Mindset are translated using A.I. Dubbing and Translation tools from DubFormer.ai ***All NON-ENGLISH text content (descriptions and titles) are translated using the A.I. functionality of Google Translate.

These parables are oftentaken out of context and misinterpreted, but they have much to teach us aboutGod's work, Satan's schemes, and our call to discernment.  First, Jesus asks, “Whatis the kingdom of God like? It is like a grain of mustard seed, which a mantook and planted in his garden; and it grew and became a great tree, and thebirds of the air lodged in its branches” (Luke 13:18-19). On the surface,this sounds like success—a tiny seed sprouting into a towering tree. Butsomething's off. Mustard seeds grow into shrubs, not trees. This abnormalgrowth hints at distortion. The Jews knew their Scriptures: a mighty tree oftensymbolized a world power (Ezekiel 17:22-24; Daniel 4:20-22), and birds, as inthe parable of the sower (Luke 8:5, 12), represent evil—Satan and his forces(Matthew 13:19). Jesus isn't picturing triumph here, but a kingdom infiltratedby falsehood. Then He says, “Towhat shall I liken the kingdom of God? It is like leaven, which a woman tookand hid in three measures of meal until it was all leavened” (Luke13:20-21). Leaven, in Scripture, consistently symbolizes evil (Exodus 12:14-20;Luke 12:1).  Think of the Pharisees'hypocrisy or Herod's corruption (Matthew 16:12; Mark 8:15). A woman hidingleaven in meal suggests stealthy contamination, not godly influence. Theseparables, echoing Matthew 13, don't show the kingdom conquering the world.Instead, they warn of Satan's two-pronged attack: abnormality (the oversizedtree) and adulteration (the hidden leaven). For context, Jesusspoke amid opposition. The synagogue ruler had just fumed over a Sabbathhealing, clinging to dead traditions. These parables counter that mindset:“Your rules won't stop God's kingdom, but Satan will distort it.” Historically,Israel rejected Christ, and during this church age, God's program facesfailure—not in its ultimate victory, but in its present form. The mustard seedreflects “Christendom”—the visible, professing church—growing unnaturallylarge, like after Constantine, when the “Organized Church” became a politicalpower, not a humble “little flock” (Luke 12:32). Like birds, the false teachersnest in its branches.  The leaven showscorruption creeping in: Pharisees with empty rituals, Sadducees denying thesupernatural, Herodians bowing to Rome. Today the church battles similardistortions, such as legalism, skepticism, and compromise. Jesus isn'tcontradicting Himself here. He'd already called leaven evil (Luke 12:1). Nor dothese parables promise global permeation; population growth outpaced by truefaith. The kingdom's seed often falls on barren soil, Satan sows counterfeits,and the net catches good and bad fish (Matthew 13). Yet, there's hope: God'strue kingdom endures, despite the mess. These stories challenge the crowd, andus, to look beyond appearances. The religious leaders saw only theirtraditions; Jesus saw Satan's schemes and God's bigger plan. What does this mean forus? We're in a mixed age where truth and falsehood grow together. We mustdiscern the real kingdom from its counterfeits, not confusing size or influencewith godliness. Satan attacks with abnormality (prideful bigness) andadulteration (subtle lies). Our job isn't to fix the whole tree or the meal butto be faithful, bearing true fruit in a crooked world, trusting God for thefinal harvest. Closing ChallengeThis week, examine yourfaith: Are you swayed by the “big tree” of flashy religion or the “leaven” ofwatered-down truth? Pick one area of your life, maybe a belief, habit, orinfluence, and test it against Scripture. Root out any distortion and commit toauthentic, humble faith. Be a seed of truth in a tangled world. PrayerLord Jesus, thank Youfor revealing the kingdom's reality of growth amid corruption. Open our eyes toSatan's schemes and keep us from false traditions or lies. Help us bear truefruit, faithful to You, not the world's show. Strengthen us to stand firm untilYour victory comes. Amen. 

Having seen the repeated questions and confrontations between Jesus and the religious leaders in Mark's gospel, we came to a decisive moment last Sunday. In Mark 3:6, the Pharisees and Herodians resolved that Jesus had to be "destroyed." He had disregarded their traditions regarding ritual fasting, separation from sinners, and the Sabbath, and His message of God's kingdom was not the same message they taught. He had become a threat. Though the Pharisees' opposition was now at a fever pitch, Jesus' ministry had never been more popular. As Mark 3:7 begins, Jesus withdraws to the seashore, and a massive crowd of people from a hundred-mile radius come to Him. As the leaders refuse to acknowledge Jesus' identity, masses of people are coming. However, Mark doesn't present this as a cause for celebration. Mark 3:7- 19 contrasts how the crowd (and unclean spirits) respond to Jesus and how his called disciples respond. The crowd comes to Jesus as nothing more than consumers. They desire relief from their physical ailments and spiritual maladies rather than Jesus Himself. Mark presents their press upon Jesus to touch him and be healed as a danger to Jesus, whose priority is proclaiming the kingdom of God (hence his need for a boat. 3:9; 4:1). Yet there is another group present who acknowledge Jesus' identity and authority in all its reality. The unclean spirits fall before Jesus and declare Him the Son of God, something the religious leaders would not do. However orthodox their profession may be, they are not citizens of His kingdom or those whose hearts desire and love Him. They profess the truth about Him, but they hate it. Finally, Jesus chooses the twelve, committed and commissioned, as His ambassadors: three groups - three responses to Jesus. Sunday, we will apply this passage to our own lives and ask which group describes us. I. The Consumers: The Crowd (v. 7-10) II. The Cognizant: The Unclean Spirits (v. 11-12) III. The Committed & Commissioned (v. 13-19)

2 Year Gospel Study - week 64 (Friday, 03–21-25) Up To Jerusalem - Teaching 6 Scripture - Matthew 21:45-46, Matthew 22:1-45, Revelation 7:9-17, Job 19:26, Isaiah 26:19, Daniel 12:2, Exodus 3:6, Mark 12:28-34, John 14:6, Micah 6:8 Today's teaching centers on Jesus' encounters with the religious leaders in the temple as recorded in the 4 gospels and enlightened by some of the latest findings of archeologists and others who have uncovered things that have been hidden for generations but that clearly testify to the truthfulness of God's Word.  We will see the display of absolute brilliance as Jesus encounters the religious aristocracy, as He answers the critics and as He clearly demonstrates the Divine plan to redeem the human race. Jesus is in the temple courts teaching - This is where we start today - Matthew 21:45-46 “When the chief priests and the Pharisees heard Jesus' parables, they knew he was talking about them. They looked for a way to arrest him, but they were afraid of the crowd because the people held that he was a prophet.” They wanted to arrest Him but also saw that the crowds were listening to Jesus and receiving Him with joy. Normally the Chief Priests and Pharisees did not see things the same way, but they did as far as how they both felt about Jesus.  Their desire to eliminate Jesus brought them together. Jesus' Teachings     ⁃    The Parable of the Wedding Banquet  (wedding feast / resurrection life / our destiny as true believers in Jesus) This is a banquet we do not want to refuse to come to!  In this parable Jesus also predicts the ultimate destruction of the city of Jerusalem which would happen in 70AD. Pastor dissects the part of the story about the man at the feast that wasn't dressed appropriately, in light of the teaching of Jesus found in Revelation 7:9-17.      ⁃    Paying the Imperial Tax to Caesar - following the Wedding Banquet parable the pharisees came together with the Herodians to lay out a plan to trap Jesus. Herodians were strong supporters of Herod's dynasty and of Rome and the pharisees hated Roman rule and their taxes. But the two groups unite to trap Jesus with this question that would force Him to choose either the Pharisees or the Herodians: “what is your opinion? Is it right to pay the imperial tax to Caesar or not?”  But to this hot button issue on Roman taxes - Jesus answers: “You hypocrites, why are you trying to trap me? Show me the coin used for paying the tax.” They brought Him a denarius and Jesus asks, “whose image is this and whose inscription?”  Their response is “Caesar's” Then Jesus said to them, “give back to Caesar what is Caesar's and to God what is Gods” When they heard this, they were amazed. So they left him and went away. Their trap had failed.     ⁃    Marriage at the Resurrection - this onslaught against Jesus comes from the Sadducees with the story of seven brothers and the law in the Torah and Jesus again avoids their trap by confronting them with wisdom and scriptures.     ⁃    The Greatest Commandment -  “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than these.” We are called to show love because God love us through His Son, Jesus. And then we read, “And from then on no one dared ask him any more questions.”     ⁃    Whose Son is Messiah? Now Jesus decides to ask a question, “Why do the teachers of the law say that the Messiah is the son of David.” Then Jesus adds a quote from King David. “David himself, speaking by the Holy Spirit, declared: “‘The Lord said to my Lord:“Sit at my right hand until I put your enemies under your feet.”' David himself calls him ‘Lord.' How then can he be his son?”  Jesus is calling them to really think hard about what David is saying. Pastor shares an enlightened look at what David is saying and what Jesus is desiring for the crowd to understand. The teaching concludes with a look at some archeological  discoveries and a peek into next week's class. Our website –  https://www.awakeusnow.com Watch the video from our website! https://www.awakeusnow.com/2-year-study-of-the-gospels-upper Watch the video from our YouTube Channel!! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOzMkhPyiNWwlJRpV6Bwpu01 Up to Jerusalem is a study of the final weeks of Jesus' ministry concluding with His resurrection and ascension, using the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John together with material from ancient sources and recent discoveries.  Up to Jerusalem is part four of our Two Year Study of the Gospels. Up To Jerusalem is the story of the plan of God to redeem the world, and the story of a Savior willing to obey the Father's plan. As we study Jesus' final days, we will be impacted as we discover the Love of God for each one of us.  This study is great for large group, small group or home group study and can be started at any time.

Matthew 22:15-22 — This sermon by Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones, one of his last to be recorded prior to his death in 1981, was delivered at the final rally of the British Evangelical Council to take place Westminster Chapel in 1979. In it, Dr. Lloyd-Jones expounds on Jesus's famous teaching to "render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's, and unto God the things which are God's" from Matthew 22:15-22. Dr Lloyd-Jones uses this passage to address what he sees as the great tragedy of mankind - its refusal to listen to the only One who can truly help, Jesus Christ. Dr. Lloyd-Jones argues that the modern world, like the Pharisees and Herodians who questioned Jesus, is overly preoccupied with lesser matters like politics, social issues, and culture, while neglecting the things of God. He exhorts Christians to follow Christ's example by putting these worldly concerns in their proper place and focusing instead on proclaiming the supernatural reality of God and the dignity of man as made in God's image. Dr. Lloyd-Jones contrasts the limited benefits and authority of earthly rulers like Caesar with the eternal power and blessings of God. He emphasizes that while we should be good citizens, our ultimate allegiance is to God alone, and calls believers to declare to a materialistic world that man does not live by bread alone, but is a living soul made for fellowship with the Creator. Dr. Lloyd-Jones concludes by highlighting the incomparable benefits of salvation in Christ - forgiveness, peace, joy, and eternal life - which far surpass anything the world can offer. He urges Christians to pray fervently for revival and a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit to empower their witness in these dark times. This sermon is a stirring call for the church to maintain its focus on proclaiming the gospel and the supremacy of God in a world consumed by temporal concerns.

Matthew 22:15-22 — This sermon by Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones, one of his last to be recorded prior to his death in 1981, was delivered at the final rally of the British Evangelical Council to take place Westminster Chapel in 1979. In it, Dr. Lloyd-Jones expounds on Jesus's famous teaching to "render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's, and unto God the things which are God's" from Matthew 22:15-22. Dr Lloyd-Jones uses this passage to address what he sees as the great tragedy of mankind - its refusal to listen to the only One who can truly help, Jesus Christ. Dr. Lloyd-Jones argues that the modern world, like the Pharisees and Herodians who questioned Jesus, is overly preoccupied with lesser matters like politics, social issues, and culture, while neglecting the things of God. He exhorts Christians to follow Christ's example by putting these worldly concerns in their proper place and focusing instead on proclaiming the supernatural reality of God and the dignity of man as made in God's image. Dr. Lloyd-Jones contrasts the limited benefits and authority of earthly rulers like Caesar with the eternal power and blessings of God. He emphasizes that while we should be good citizens, our ultimate allegiance is to God alone, and calls believers to declare to a materialistic world that man does not live by bread alone, but is a living soul made for fellowship with the Creator. Dr. Lloyd-Jones concludes by highlighting the incomparable benefits of salvation in Christ - forgiveness, peace, joy, and eternal life - which far surpass anything the world can offer. He urges Christians to pray fervently for revival and a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit to empower their witness in these dark times. This sermon is a stirring call for the church to maintain its focus on proclaiming the gospel and the supremacy of God in a world consumed by temporal concerns. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/603/29

What if our anger isn't the problem, but how we use it is? Are we letting it lead us to sin, or using it to fight for others? Tune in this Sunday to find out! EASY TO GIVE at Harmony, text any amount to (859) 459-0316 to get started (or give online @ my.harmonychurch.cc/give). Get the fill in the blank bulletins my.harmonychurch.cc/bulletins. --------------------- OPENING ILLUSTRATION: I remember when I was in 6th grade our science teacher - Mr. Cronkite was trying to teach us to think outside of the box.  He said, like, if you are ever surrounded by a bunch of guys who want to get into a fight, you need to look for the person with the biggest weakness and go after it.  He then proceeded to tell us about a kid who got jumped after school and was surrounded by all these kids who were going to beat him up.  He saw that one of the kids had braces and he took Cronkite's advice and he punched that kid in the mouth as hard as he possibly could!  Blood exploded from the boy's mouth and all the other kids ran of terrified about what would happen to them… Needless to say, Mr. Cronkite was all the boys' favorite teacher after that… But he had a point, right, Usually, the one who wins a fight is the one who fights the dirtiest… Today we are starting this series, FIGHT learning to handle conflict (the healthy way) I'm going to give you the boring stuff - Cronkite knew how to make it exciting, but my goal isn't for you to learn to win fights, but how to go an entirely different route over the next few weeks… Especially coming out of this series on relationships… So, today we are going to look at when anger is a good thing, and when it's not so much Let me ask you a question, How many of you struggle with anger? b Better yet, how many of you would those close to you say you can be an angry person? ILLUSTRATION: I asked my kids this and they were like, “no dad, you're not.” But I know that's not always true… The reality is, just like you, I have times where I'm angry and where I explode… Today I want to look at when it's ok to be angry and when it's not. CAVEAT: Here's my worry with this sermon is that not everyone who is angry actually knows they are angry. Some of you have just accepted it as part of who you are. Here's how to know if you have a problem with anger. b Ask yourself this question, “If I had a boss who talked to me the way I talk to __(your spouse, kids, employees, etc)_. Would I put up with it?” If you're really brave, ask your loved ones if they think you are an angry person, but be prepared and give them 100% immunity from any repercussions - because if you are an angry person, I promise you, they are going to be scared to share that with you… The reason I'm preaching this sermon is because if you are someone who struggles with anger, you need to learn when it's appropriate and when it's not. In the coming weeks we are going to look at better ways to handle anger, but today, I want you to know not all anger is bad… I think there are at least two types of anger, Righteous Anger & Danger Anger b Danger anger is when you react with anger that's inappropriate to the situation -This is when your spouse burns the dinner and you rage at them. -This is when your kid leaves a trail of toys, going from one play session to another and you blow up at them -This is when you lock yourself of out of the house and get in the car beating on the steering wheel and cussing up a storm -You shut down and go into violent silent weaponizing withdrawal Danger anger comes when your well-being feels threatened BUT no real harm occurs. Look at this list of things that are often times underlying emotions that are presenting themselves as anger: guilt insecurity worn out confusion pain overwhelmed anxiety embarrassment rejection trauma threatened grief unfairness loneliness jealousy hunger helplessness stressed disappointment sadness Paul's challenge to us is: Ephesians 4:26-27 26 “In your anger do not sin”[d]: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 and do not give the devil a foothold. Anger is a means to control what feels out of control, when you power up you put yourself in a position to feel protected… But so often it ends up being sinful. You say things that hurt, you do things that break down others. Paul's not saying to “don't be angry,” what he's saying is to not let your anger lead to sin - deal with it before it's too late. One of the things that challenges me is in the first chapter of Isaiah… God tells Isaiah He's done with all the religious things the people are bringing to Him, he sees them all as worthless, and here's why: Isaiah 1:15 15 When you spread out your hands in prayer, I hide my eyes from you; even when you offer many prayers, I am not listening. Your hands are full of blood! He's done with them because of the violence they perpetrated. Later He will say: 17 Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed.[a] Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow. What do you do? You need to start asking yourself “What was that about?” You need to start identifying what is actually driving your anger and deal with that - communicate it to those around you who are experiencing your outbursts. “I'm sorry, I'm just feeling so anxious right now” or “I'm sorry, I'm just feel like I'm no good at this and it ticks me off and I get so angry”… What would it look like if you started to take your anger a different direction. God has given you a passionate personality, and there is definitely a place for anger to make a difference! b Righteous anger is when real harm is done to you or others - it's an appropriate response to what's happening What would it look like for you to take your anger and use it to help others? To turn your passion to protecting those who have no one to protect them? Jesus felt this kind of anger, listen to Mark Mark 3:4-6 4 Then Jesus asked them, “Which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?” But they remained silent. 5 He looked around at them in anger and, deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts, said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He stretched it out, and his hand was completely restored. 6 Then the Pharisees went out and began to plot with the Herodians how they might kill Jesus. Jesus sees these religious guys who are willing to let this guy go unhealed in order to keep their laws and Jesus breaks the religious law to rescue this guy. CLOSING ILLUSTRATION: As disciples of Jesus, we need some people who will care so much for others that they will let themselves get riled up for injustice - and it's fine to do that at a governmental level - I know so many of you get politically riled up, but what about the fatherless around us?  What about those who are dying apart from Jesus right now?  What about those who have no hope in this world?  Do you get angry for those who are being taken advantage of?  Do you get angry for the kids in foster care?  What about the single mom working 3 jobs?  What would it look like for you to turn your passionate personality into a response to help them? [Anthony - After the invitation song, I'd like to end with you saying, we want to introduce you to a way that you could put your righteous anger to use, watch this video and then when you exit today stop and talk to someone from Transform Scott County by https://drive.google.com/file/d/1O3rjPTS9YPjoTBJyI826dtZ5y3cfee64]

By Alex and LokelaniWelcome to our Substack! As promised, we're providing deeper content to complement Amen podcast. This is the third and final part of our series examining Matthew 22:15-22, the famous passage about paying taxes to Caesar.The ScriptureThen the Pharisees went and plotted how to entangle him in his words, and they sent their disciples to him along with the Herodians, saying, "Teacher, we know that you are true and teach the way of God truthfully, and you do not care about anyone's opinion, for you are not swayed by appearances. Tell us then what you think. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not?"But Jesus, aware of their malice, said, "Why put me to the test, you hypocrites? Show me the coin for the tax." And they brought him a denarius. And Jesus said to them, "Whose likeness and inscription is this?" They said, "Caesar's." Then he said to them, "Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's."When they heard it, they marveled, and they left him and went away. — Matthew 22:15-22Key Message: What Should Consume Our Zeal?In our final exploration of this passage, we examine Jesus' response through the lens of politics and what deserves our zealous devotion.The Cultural ContextDuring Jesus' time, Caesar's coins represented more than currency—they contained inscriptions declaring Caesar divine. This created tension for devout Jews who recognized only one God. The religious leaders were attempting to trap Jesus with an impossible choice:* If he said "pay taxes," religious Jews would see him endorsing idolatry* If he said "don't pay taxes," Roman authorities would view him as an insurrectionistJesus' brilliant response transcended this false dichotomy while revealing a deeper truth.The Image We BearWhen Jesus asked "whose image is on this coin?" he wasn't simply finding a clever escape from their trap. He was highlighting a profound truth about identity and allegiance.Just as coins bear Caesar's image and belong to Caesar's domain, we bear God's image and belong to God. While we can participate in earthly systems (pay taxes, vote, engage in civic life), our primary identity and loyalty must remain with God.Warning Signs: When Politics Overshadows FaithHere are some warning signs that politics may be displacing spiritual priorities:* Being more excited about political rallies than worship* Speaking more passionately about candidates than Christ* Skipping church to watch debates* Defining fellow Christians primarily by their political affiliations* Exhibiting rage rather than the fruit of the Spirit when discussing politicsFinding Balance: The Early Church ModelThe early Christians weren't politically disengaged—they actively sought the welfare of their cities while maintaining ultimate allegiance to Christ. This dual posture made them both beneficial to society and threatening to those in power. They wanted the common good but refused to worship the emperor.This is our model: we can be thoughtfully engaged citizens while remembering that our first love and ultimate hope lies not in political systems but in Christ's kingdom.After the AmenAm I zealous about the things of God? How does my passion for God's kingdom compare with other concerns in my life? When I discuss politics, do I exhibit the fruit of the Spirit or the works of the flesh?A Call to WisdomPolitics tends to bring out strong emotions, often leading to division even among believers. Wisdom calls us to:* Prioritize Kingdom values above partisan identities* Engage respectfully with those holding different views* Remember that sanctification happens at different paces* Care deeply about our communities while maintaining our first loveOur goal isn't to create a perfect Christian nation through political power, but to live as faithful witnesses who reflect Christ's character in every sphere of life—including the political. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amenpodcast.substack.com

By Alex and LokelaniWelcome to our Substack! As promised, we're providing deeper content to complement Amen podcast. This is the third and final part of our series examining Matthew 22:15-22, the famous passage about paying taxes to Caesar.The ScriptureThen the Pharisees went and plotted how to entangle him in his words, and they sent their disciples to him along with the Herodians, saying, "Teacher, we know that you are true and teach the way of God truthfully, and you do not care about anyone's opinion, for you are not swayed by appearances. Tell us then what you think. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not?"But Jesus, aware of their malice, said, "Why put me to the test, you hypocrites? Show me the coin for the tax." And they brought him a denarius. And Jesus said to them, "Whose likeness and inscription is this?" They said, "Caesar's." Then he said to them, "Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's."When they heard it, they marveled, and they left him and went away. — Matthew 22:15-22Key Message: What Should Consume Our Zeal?In our final exploration of this passage, we examine Jesus' response through the lens of politics and what deserves our zealous devotion.The Cultural ContextDuring Jesus' time, Caesar's coins represented more than currency—they contained inscriptions declaring Caesar divine. This created tension for devout Jews who recognized only one God. The religious leaders were attempting to trap Jesus with an impossible choice:* If he said "pay taxes," religious Jews would see him endorsing idolatry* If he said "don't pay taxes," Roman authorities would view him as an insurrectionistJesus' brilliant response transcended this false dichotomy while revealing a deeper truth.The Image We BearWhen Jesus asked "whose image is on this coin?" he wasn't simply finding a clever escape from their trap. He was highlighting a profound truth about identity and allegiance.Just as coins bear Caesar's image and belong to Caesar's domain, we bear God's image and belong to God. While we can participate in earthly systems (pay taxes, vote, engage in civic life), our primary identity and loyalty must remain with God.Warning Signs: When Politics Overshadows FaithHere are some warning signs that politics may be displacing spiritual priorities:* Being more excited about political rallies than worship* Speaking more passionately about candidates than Christ* Skipping church to watch debates* Defining fellow Christians primarily by their political affiliations* Exhibiting rage rather than the fruit of the Spirit when discussing politicsFinding Balance: The Early Church ModelThe early Christians weren't politically disengaged—they actively sought the welfare of their cities while maintaining ultimate allegiance to Christ. This dual posture made them both beneficial to society and threatening to those in power. They wanted the common good but refused to worship the emperor.This is our model: we can be thoughtfully engaged citizens while remembering that our first love and ultimate hope lies not in political systems but in Christ's kingdom.After the AmenAm I zealous about the things of God? How does my passion for God's kingdom compare with other concerns in my life? When I discuss politics, do I exhibit the fruit of the Spirit or the works of the flesh?A Call to WisdomPolitics tends to bring out strong emotions, often leading to division even among believers. Wisdom calls us to:* Prioritize Kingdom values above partisan identities* Engage respectfully with those holding different views* Remember that sanctification happens at different paces* Care deeply about our communities while maintaining our first loveOur goal isn't to create a perfect Christian nation through political power, but to live as faithful witnesses who reflect Christ's character in every sphere of life—including the political. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amenpodcast.substack.com

Doing good on the Sabbath through the lens of Mark. Jesus' healing of a man with a withered hand on the Sabbath, despite the scrutiny and accusations from religious leaders. Hear about the questions Jesus asked them before doing good on the Sabbath. Sermon Notes Mark 3:1 – 3 Jesus, His enemies, a man with a withered hand are all together in a synagogue on the Sabbath Mark 3:4 Jesus Asks is it lawful to do good or arm on the Sabbath, but they don't respond Mark 3:5 Even though Jesus is angry and grieved He heals the man Mark 3:6 The Pharisees and Herodians seek to destroy Jesus Mark 3:7 – 10 Jesus sought ny Jews and Gentiles to be healed by touching Him Mark 3:11 & 12 Unclean spirits cried out who Jesus is, but He warned them not to reveal who He is

I. False Friends. II. False Flattery. III. A False Dilemma. IV. A False Response.

In Matthew 22:15-22, we find one of Jesus's most famous responses to his critics. While many know this passage as simply being about "rendering unto Caesar," there's a deeper wisdom here about how we should live as Christians.The Setup: A Careful TrapThe scene opens with the Pharisees plotting to "entangle" Jesus in his words. They send their disciples along with the Herodians—an unlikely alliance of religious purists and political supporters of Rome—to trap Jesus with what seems like an impossible question: "Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?"This wasn't just about taxes. If Jesus said yes, he would alienate devout Jews who saw Roman currency as idolatrous (it bore Caesar's image and proclaimed him lord). If he said no, he'd be marked as a political insurgent against Rome. It was, in modern terms, a "gotcha" question.Jesus's Thoughtful ResponseBut Jesus, showing remarkable wisdom, doesn't rush to answer. Instead, he:* Recognizes their malice despite their flattery* Asks to see the coin used for taxes* Uses their own possession of Roman currency to expose their hypocrisy* Delivers his famous response: "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's"The Deeper Message: Being Thoughtful ChristiansThe real lesson here isn't just about taxes—it's about thoughtfulness. Jesus exemplifies James 1:19: "Let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger." His response wasn't just clever; it was thoughtful and measured.In our modern world of instant reactions and hot takes, this message is more relevant than ever. Being thoughtful means:* Taking time to understand situations before responding* Not being rushed into hasty answers* Recognizing that God is not slow, but sovereign* Being aware of attempts to trap or manipulate us* Responding with wisdom rather than reactionThe Challenge of Modern LifeWe live in a world that pushes us toward constant hurry and efficiency. We put in our AirPods to multitask, rush through our daily routines, and fill every moment with content. But this hurry can prevent us from being truly thoughtful.Consider: When was the last time you did a task without background noise? When did you last take time to really think before responding to a challenging situation?Practical Steps Toward Thoughtfulness* Start your day intentionally, not rushed* Create space in your mind by reducing mental clutter* Practice being present in mundane tasks without constant stimulation* Be especially thoughtful with those closest to you* Remember that God's sovereignty means we don't need to rushThe Heart of the MatterJust as the coin bore Caesar's image, we bear God's image. The real question isn't just about what we owe to earthly authorities—it's about giving ourselves back to God. This requires thoughtfulness, intentionality, and the wisdom to slow down and listen before speaking. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amenpodcast.substack.com

In Matthew 22:15-22, we find one of Jesus's most famous responses to his critics. While many know this passage as simply being about "rendering unto Caesar," there's a deeper wisdom here about how we should live as Christians.The Setup: A Careful TrapThe scene opens with the Pharisees plotting to "entangle" Jesus in his words. They send their disciples along with the Herodians—an unlikely alliance of religious purists and political supporters of Rome—to trap Jesus with what seems like an impossible question: "Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?"This wasn't just about taxes. If Jesus said yes, he would alienate devout Jews who saw Roman currency as idolatrous (it bore Caesar's image and proclaimed him lord). If he said no, he'd be marked as a political insurgent against Rome. It was, in modern terms, a "gotcha" question.Jesus's Thoughtful ResponseBut Jesus, showing remarkable wisdom, doesn't rush to answer. Instead, he:* Recognizes their malice despite their flattery* Asks to see the coin used for taxes* Uses their own possession of Roman currency to expose their hypocrisy* Delivers his famous response: "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's"The Deeper Message: Being Thoughtful ChristiansThe real lesson here isn't just about taxes—it's about thoughtfulness. Jesus exemplifies James 1:19: "Let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger." His response wasn't just clever; it was thoughtful and measured.In our modern world of instant reactions and hot takes, this message is more relevant than ever. Being thoughtful means:* Taking time to understand situations before responding* Not being rushed into hasty answers* Recognizing that God is not slow, but sovereign* Being aware of attempts to trap or manipulate us* Responding with wisdom rather than reactionThe Challenge of Modern LifeWe live in a world that pushes us toward constant hurry and efficiency. We put in our AirPods to multitask, rush through our daily routines, and fill every moment with content. But this hurry can prevent us from being truly thoughtful.Consider: When was the last time you did a task without background noise? When did you last take time to really think before responding to a challenging situation?Practical Steps Toward Thoughtfulness* Start your day intentionally, not rushed* Create space in your mind by reducing mental clutter* Practice being present in mundane tasks without constant stimulation* Be especially thoughtful with those closest to you* Remember that God's sovereignty means we don't need to rushThe Heart of the MatterJust as the coin bore Caesar's image, we bear God's image. The real question isn't just about what we owe to earthly authorities—it's about giving ourselves back to God. This requires thoughtfulness, intentionality, and the wisdom to slow down and listen before speaking. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amenpodcast.substack.com

Today's Topics: 1, 2, 3, 4) Gospel - Mark 3:1-6 - Jesus entered the synagogue. There was a man there who had a withered hand. They watched Jesus closely to see if He would cure him on the sabbath so that they might accuse Him. He said to the man with the withered hand, “Come up here before us.” Then He said to the Pharisees, “Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath rather than to do evil, to save life rather than to destroy it?” But they remained silent. Looking around at them with anger and grieved at their hardness of heart, Jesus said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He stretched it out and his hand was restored. The Pharisees went out and immediately took counsel with the Herodians against Him to put Him to death. Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children Bishop Sheen quote of the day 2) Great news on President Trump's first day in office 3, 4) Update on the new President and his Administration with Frank Pavone, national Director of Priests for Life

Jesus entered the synagogue.There was a man there who had a withered hand.They watched Jesus closelyto see if he would cure him on the sabbathso that they might accuse him.He said to the man with the withered hand,“Come up here before us.”Then he said to the Pharisees,“Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath rather than to do evil,to save life rather than to destroy it?”But they remained silent.Looking around at them with angerand grieved at their hardness of heart,Jesus said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.”He stretched it out and his hand was restored.The Pharisees went out and immediately took counselwith the Herodians against him to put him to death.

Read OnlineThen he said to the Pharisees, “Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath rather than to do evil, to save life rather than to destroy it?” But they remained silent. Looking around at them with anger and grieved at their hardness of heart, Jesus said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He stretched it out and his hand was restored. Mark 3:4–5Sin damages our relationship with God. But hardness of heart is even more damaging because it perpetuates the damage done by sin. And the harder one's heart, the more permanent the damage.In the passage above, Jesus was angry with the Pharisees. Oftentimes the passion of anger is sinful, resulting from impatience and a lack of charity. But at other times, the passion of anger can be good when it is motivated by love of others and hatred for their sin. In this case, Jesus was grieved by the hardness of heart of the Pharisees, and that grief motivated His holy anger. His “holy” anger did not cause irrational criticism; rather, it drove Jesus to cure this man in the presence of the Pharisees so that they would soften their hearts and believe in Jesus. Sadly, it didn't work. The very next line of the Gospel says, “The Pharisees went out and immediately took counsel with the Herodians against him to put him to death” (Mark 3:6).Hardness of heart should be greatly avoided. The problem is that those who are hard of heart are usually not open to the fact that they are hard of heart. They are obstinate and stubborn, and oftentimes self-righteous. Therefore, when people suffer from this spiritual ailment, it is difficult for them to change, especially when confronted.This Gospel passage offers you an important opportunity to look into your own heart with honesty. Only you and God need to be part of that interior introspection and conversation. Begin by reflecting upon the Pharisees and the poor example they set. From there, try to look at yourself with great honesty. Are you obstinate? Are you hardened in your convictions to the point that you are unwilling to even consider that you may be wrong at times? Are there people in your life with whom you have entered into a conflict that still remains? If any of this rings true, then you may indeed suffer from the spiritual ill of a hardened heart. Reflect, today, upon your own soul and your relationships with others with as much honesty as possible. Do not hesitate to let your guard down and be open to what God may want to say to you. And if you detect even the slightest tendency toward a hardened and stubborn heart, beg our Lord to enter in to soften it. Change like this is difficult, but the rewards of such a change are incalculable. Do not hesitate and do not wait. Change is worth it in the end. My loving Lord, this day I open myself to an examination of my own heart and pray that You will help me to always be open to change when necessary. Help me, especially, to see any hardness I may have within my heart. Help me to overcome any obstinacy, stubbornness and self-righteousness. Give me the gift of humility, dear Lord, so that my heart can become more like Yours. Jesus, I trust in You.Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.Featured image above: Jesus Heals the Man with a Withered Hand, via Wikimedia Commons

From the Gospel acclamation: “Jesus preached the Gospel of the Kingdom and cured every disease among the people." A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 3:1-6) He said to the man with the withered hand, “Come up here before us.” Then he said to the Pharisees, “Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath rather than to do evil, to save life rather than to destroy it?” But they remained silent. In the synagogue on the sabbath, the Pharisees watch Jesus closely in order to trap him. Without saying a word, the Pharisees speak from their heart, but the words of Jesus silence them, just as he commands unclean spirits to be silent. Mark tells us that Jesus looked around at the Pharisees with anger and was grieved at their hardness of heart. After the silence, Jesus says one more thing: "Stretch out your hand." In the stillness that follows, Jesus restores the man's withered hand. The Pharisees sought a way to take the life of Jesus, stretching out their hand to the Herodians and hearing a legion of voices tell them that by destroying the Prince of Peace, peace will be restored. In the midst of the day, will we take time in silence to seek healing from the Lord, to hear the voice of Jesus say, "Stretch out your hand"? God, help me reflect on these words of Jesus on this day of prayer for the legal protection of unborn children. Just as he spoke in tenderness to the man with the withered hand, he speaks to everyone who calls on his name and seeks to be restored to you through the power of the Holy Spirit. "Stretch out your hand," Jesus says, inviting us once again to be restored to the divine mercy of his Father—our Father—and the promise of eternal life as your children. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

In His last week in Jerusalem, Jesus begins by facing off with each faction of the religious leadership of Israel... Chief Priests, Teachers of the Law, Pharisees, Sadducees, and Herodians. He does not hold back in revealing their hypocrisy. .

Jesus has had his turn answering the questions of the religious leaders of Jerusalem. One by one, the Herodians, the Sadducees, and the Pharisees have come to Jesus with questions designed to silence the false teacher from Galilee. One by one, this teacher from Galilee has prevailed over them in his wisdom and understanding of scripture. Now, Jesus takes a turn at asking them a question, "What do you think about the Messiah? Whose son is he?" The leaders have sought to trap Jesus with questions regarding poll taxes, marriage in the resurrection, and God's commands. Not one of these questions comes close to the primary reason they cannot accept Jesus as the Christ. The leaders' understanding of the expected messiah is small and insufficient. With a single question, Jesus reveals this inadequacy. He is the Son of David and the Son of God. He is the Lord, and his reign shall be like nothing they ever expected… or can accept. By the end of the passage, the false leaders, not Jesus, are the ones silenced. While the man from Galilee continues to speak. What is your understanding of the messiah?Join us on Sunday as we hear from the Word of God concerning who he is and why it changes everything!

When we come to Luke 6, we believe that Jesus is finishing His first year of ministry. At this time, He has a small group of disciples with Him, He is teaching in the synagogues and also ministering to large crowds as He travels throughout the region preaching the Gospel of the Kingdom. He is healing the sick, causing the lame to walk, and casting out demons.   But the Pharisees and religious leaders of the Jews are not impressed. They perceive that Jesus is a threat to their religious control over the people and they are also following Him to find fault and discredit Him in front of the people. They claim they care for the poor, sick and needy, but the truth is that they only care about their control over the people with their man-made laws that they have attached to the Law of Moses. I personally get the sense that this is exactly what is happening in the politics of the present election in America.   It is wonderful and amazing that in the midst of the controversy and public criticism that surrounded Jesus He still cares for the poor and needy and performs wonderful miracles of healing! I believe the Lord wants to do the same today in our neighborhoods, in our communities, in our churches and in our country.   In Luke 6:6-11, the Pharisees knew that it was our Lord's practice to be in the synagogue on the Sabbath, so they were there to watch Him and to gather more evidence against Him. Did they know that the handicapped man would also be there? Did they "plant" him there? We do not know, and Jesus probably did not care. His compassionate heart responded to the man's need, and He healed him. Jesus could have waited a few hours until the Sabbath was over, or He could have healed the man in private, but He did it openly and immediately. It was a deliberate violation of the Sabbath traditions.   Our Lord's defense in the field of grain was based on the Old Testament Scriptures (Luke 6:1-5), but His defense in the synagogue was based on the nature of God's Sabbath law. God gave that law to help people, not to hurt them. "The Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath" (Mark 2:27). Every man in the synagogue would rescue a sheep on the Sabbath, so why not rescue a man made in the image of God? (Matthew 12:11-12) The scribes and Pharisees had turned God's gift into a heavy yoke that nobody could bear (Acts 15:10; Gal. 5:1).   This miracle illustrates the power of faith in God's Word. Jesus commanded the man to do the very thing he could not do, and yet in obedience, he did it! (Luke 1:37). God's commandments are always God's enablements. Immediate obedience to the Word of God is the open expression of our faith! We can't save ourselves, but when we call out on the name of Jesus in obedience to His Word, He performs the miracle of salvation and spiritual healing for our soul! (Romans 10:13; Acts 16:29-31)   The scribes and Pharisees were filled with fury. It certainly did not do them any good to worship God in the synagogue that morning. So angry were they that they even joined forces with the Herodians (the Jews who supported Herod) in a plot to kill Jesus (Mark 3:6). Jesus knew their thoughts (Matthew 12:15; Luke 6:8); so He merely withdrew to the Sea of Galilee, ministered to the multitudes, and then went up to a mountain alone to pray.   Today, Jesus gives a spiritual "Sabbath rest" that is in the heart all the time (Matt. 11:28-30). Unlike the galling yoke of the Law, the yoke that Jesus gives is "well-fitting," and His "burden is light." When the sinner trusts the Savior, he has peace with God because his sins are forgiven, and he is reconciled to God (Rom. 5:1-11). As the believer yields to Christ in daily experience, he enjoys "the peace of God" in his heart and mind (Phil. 4:6-7).   Read Hebrews 4 to learn how obedience to God's Word will bring you into God's promised rest in Christ Jesus!   Have you come short of the promise of God's rest because of disobedience? (Hebrews 4:1)   God bless!

In a classic Peanuts comic strip, Linus’ friend berates him for his belief in the Great Pumpkin. Walking away dejectedly, Linus says, “There are three things I have learned never to discuss with people . . . religion, politics, and the Great Pumpkin!” The Great Pumpkin existed only in Linus’ head, but the other two topics are oh-so-real—dividing nations, families, and friends. The problem occurred in Jesus’ day as well. The Pharisees were deeply religious and tried to follow the Old Testament law to the letter. The Herodians were more political, yet both groups wanted to see the Jewish people freed from Roman oppression. Jesus didn’t seem to share their goals. So they approached Him with a politically charged question: should the people pay taxes to Caesar? (Mark 12:14–15). If Jesus said yes, the people would resent Him. If He said no, the Romans could arrest Him for insurrection. Jesus asked for a coin. “Whose image is this?” He asked (v. 16). Everyone knew it was Caesar’s. Jesus’ words resonate today: “Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s” (v. 17). His priorities in order, Jesus avoided their trap. Jesus came to do His Father’s will. Following His lead, we too can seek God and His kingdom above all else, directing the focus away from all the dissension and toward the One who is the Truth.

Elections are just around the corner and it can be difficult as Christians in a very polarized society to discuss politics with others. How do we engage in politics in a Godly way? Jon takes us into the book of Mark to see Jesus' reaction when He was challenged by the Pharisees and the Herodians, in order to answer that question! See you next Tuesday, Paradigm! https://www.bible.com/events/49340049 Paradigm is a weekly gathering of Kansas City college and 20s-30s young adults who desire to see Jesus made known throughout the city! Want to come & see? Email us at paradigm@livingproof.co to give us a heads up so we can greet you, or just show up any Tuesday night at 7pm to grab a cup of coffee and enjoy a relaxing environment, hear messages relevant to college and young professionals, and build relationships with other young adults. Subscribe to the ParadigmKC podcast and YouTube, follow us on Instagram & Facebook, find our location, and learn more at http://paradigmkc.com/.

The Politics of Jesus Thy Kingdom Come Essential Church October 27, 2024 Summary - Jesus was asked a political question about paying taxes to Caesar, but he avoided taking a partisan stance. Jesus emphasized that the ultimate allegiance should be to God, not any earthly political authority. The transcript discusses the historical context of the Pharisees and Herodians, two opposing political factions in Jesus' time. The speaker cautions against making politics the primary focus, rather than the message of the gospel and a relationship with Jesus. The speaker argues that Jesus did not come with a political agenda, but to seek and save the lost. The speaker encourages the audience to avoid letting political divisions divide relationships and prevent sharing the gospel message. The speaker emphasizes that true hope and change come through a relationship with Jesus, not through political means. The speaker encourages the audience to focus on their primary calling as the church, which is to share the message of Jesus, rather than getting caught up in political agendas.  Discussion Questions - How does the pastor explain the background and context of the Pharisees and Herodians who questioned Jesus about paying taxes to Caesar? What does this reveal about the political tensions of the time? The pastor discusses how Jesus did not take a clear political stance, even when asked a politically-charged question. What does this suggest about Jesus' approach to politics and the role of the church? The pastor emphasizes that Jesus' primary mission was not political, but rather about establishing a loving relationship with God. How does this perspective challenge the tendency for Christians to be overly focused on political agendas? The pastor cautions against allowing political differences to divide friendships and relationships within the church. What are the dangers of this, and how can Christians maintain unity despite political disagreements? What does the pastor mean when he says "our hope has always been in Jesus Christ" rather than in who governs or what laws are passed? How can this perspective shape a Christian's approach to politics and civic engagement? The pastor encourages focusing on sharing the gospel message rather than primarily pursuing political change. What are the potential pitfalls of prioritizing political goals over evangelism and discipleship? How can Christians thoughtfully engage in the political process while maintaining the proper perspective, as outlined by the pastor in this sermon?

LITURGY FOR THE MOMENT A liturgy for a politically divided nation 10.27.24 A liturgy for a politically divided nation Father, in the midst of this political season, we turn our eyes to you. Though hatred and discord seem to surround us, Help us to be instruments of your love and vessels of your grace. We declare our primary allegiance to you and your kingdom. and ask for your wisdom as we navigate these complex decisions. As we face agreement and disagreement with others, May we never cease to honor the image of God in every person.We are grateful for the privilege to vote and practice religious freedom, And yet we align ourselves with the countercultural way of Jesus. We renounce the intoxicating allure of power and its false promises. and choose the way of the cross and sacrificial love. Let your kingdom come and your will be done, On earth, and in our country, as it is in heaven. Matthew 5:1-12 Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, 2 and he began to teach them. He said: 3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. 5 Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. 6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. 7 Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. 8 Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. 9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. 10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. Why is the church struggling to navigate this cultural moment? 1) Politics and political leaders are discipling our nation how to think and how to treat people 2) Many Christians and churches are peddling a false gospel that attempts to conflate our political affiliation with our kingdom allegiance 3) Many Christians have disengaged from trusted voices of the church and are being easily misled and deceived 4) Many Christians have abandoned the ways of Jesus and the “way of the lamb” for the way of power and dominance 5) Many Christians have lost their missional calling to embody the gospel and have resorted to defending or legislating the kingdom of God Mark 12:13-17 13Later they sent some of the Pharisees and Herodians to Jesus to catch him in his words. 14They came to him and said, “Teacher, we know that you are a man of integrity. You arenʼt swayed by others, because you pay no attention to who they are; but you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. Is it right to pay the imperial tax to Caesar or not? 15Should we pay or shouldnʼt we?” But Jesus knew their hypocrisy. “Why are you trying to trap me?” he asked. “Bring me a denarius and let me look at it.”16They brought the coin, and he asked them, “Whose image is this? And whose inscription?” “Caesarʼs,” they replied. 17Then Jesus said to them, “Give back to Caesar what is Caesarʼs and to God what is Godʼs.” And they were amazed at him. We are to be involved in political matters but they are not our hope or identity because we are called to a great purpose. 1. I will pray for you and honor your position 2. I will support you where I can 3. I will defy you where I must The church is called to be a prophetic witness to the world regarding the ways of Jesus and the kingdom of God. The church must renew our commitment to our mission and calling: We must primarily identity as citizens of the kingdom of heaven We must fiercely hold to the life and teachings of Jesus We must stand above politics in order to be a prophetic voice of truth

Jesus has finished speaking three parables, revealing the Pharisees, Sadducees, and Herodians and the condition of their faith. They are not pleased and will not take Jesus' words lying down. Set on removing Jesus, the leaders take turns attempting to trap Jesus in his own words. This week, the Herodians, along with the disciples of the Pharisees, pose the question, "Is it right to pay the imperial tax to Caesar or not?" Jesus' response leaves the people amazed. Join us on Sunday as we hear Jesus respond and discover how we are to live in relation to our government and God.

 15 Then the Pharisees going, consulted among themselves how to insnare him in his speech.Tunc abeuntes pharisaei, consilium inierunt ut caperent eum in sermone.  16 And they sent to him their disciples with the Herodians, saying: Master, we know that thou art a true speaker, and teachest the way of God in truth, neither carest thou for any man: for thou dost not regard the person of men.Et mittunt ei discipulos suos cum Herodianis, dicentes : Magister, scimus quia verax es, et viam Dei in veritate doces, et non est tibi cura de aliquo : non enim respicis personam hominum :  17 Tell us therefore what dost thou think, is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not?dic ergo nobis quid tibi videtur, licet censum dare Caesari, an non?  18 But Jesus knowing their wickedness, said: Why do you tempt me, ye hypocrites?Cognita autem Jesus nequitia eorum, ait : Quid me tentatis hypocritae?  19 Shew me the coin of the tribute. And they offered him a penny.Ostendite mihi numisma census. At illi obtulerunt ei denarium.  20 And Jesus saith to them: Whose image and inscription is this?Et ait illis Jesus : Cujus est imago haec, et superscriptio?  21 They say to him: Caesar's. Then he saith to them: Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar's; and to God, the things that are God's.Dicunt ei : Caesaris. Tunc ait illis : Reddite ergo quae sunt Caesaris, Caesari : et quae sunt Dei, Deo.

15 Then the Pharisees going, consulted among themselves how to insnare him in his speech.Tunc abeuntes pharisaei, consilium inierunt ut caperent eum in sermone.  16 And they sent to him their disciples with the Herodians, saying: Master, we know that thou art a true speaker, and teachest the way of God in truth, neither carest thou for any man: for thou dost not regard the person of men.Et mittunt ei discipulos suos cum Herodianis, dicentes : Magister, scimus quia verax es, et viam Dei in veritate doces, et non est tibi cura de aliquo : non enim respicis personam hominum :  17 Tell us therefore what dost thou think, is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not?dic ergo nobis quid tibi videtur, licet censum dare Caesari, an non?  18 But Jesus knowing their wickedness, said: Why do you tempt me, ye hypocrites?Cognita autem Jesus nequitia eorum, ait : Quid me tentatis hypocritae?  19 Shew me the coin of the tribute. And they offered him a penny.Ostendite mihi numisma census. At illi obtulerunt ei denarium.  20 And Jesus saith to them: Whose image and inscription is this?Et ait illis Jesus : Cujus est imago haec, et superscriptio?  21 They say to him: Caesar's. Then he saith to them: Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar's; and to God, the things that are God's.Dicunt ei : Caesaris. Tunc ait illis : Reddite ergo quae sunt Caesaris, Caesari : et quae sunt Dei, Deo.

One Sabbath Jesus was going through the grainfields, and as his disciples walked along, they began to pick some heads of grain. The Pharisees said to him, “Look, why are they doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?” He answered, “Have you never read what David did when he and his companions were hungry and in need? In the days of Abiathar the high priest, he entered the house of God and ate the consecrated bread, which is lawful only for priests to eat. And he also gave some to his companions.” Then he said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.”Another time Jesus went into the synagogue, and a man with a shriveled hand was there. Some of them were looking for a reason to accuse Jesus, so they watched him closely to see if he would heal him on the Sabbath. Jesus said to the man with the shriveled hand, “Stand up in front of everyone.” Then Jesus asked them, “Which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?” But they remained silent. He looked around at them in anger and, deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts, said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He stretched it out, and his hand was completely restored. Then the Pharisees went out and began to plot with the Herodians how they might kill Jesus.Mark 2:23 - 3:6

 15 Then the Pharisees going, consulted among themselves how to insnare him in his speech.Tunc abeuntes pharisaei, consilium inierunt ut caperent eum in sermone.  16 And they sent to him their disciples with the Herodians, saying: Master, we know that thou art a true speaker, and teachest the way of God in truth, neither carest thou for any man: for thou dost not regard the person of men.Et mittunt ei discipulos suos cum Herodianis, dicentes : Magister, scimus quia verax es, et viam Dei in veritate doces, et non est tibi cura de aliquo : non enim respicis personam hominum :  17 Tell us therefore what dost thou think, is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not?dic ergo nobis quid tibi videtur, licet censum dare Caesari, an non?  18 But Jesus knowing their wickedness, said: Why do you tempt me, ye hypocrites?Cognita autem Jesus nequitia eorum, ait : Quid me tentatis hypocritae?  19 Shew me the coin of the tribute. And they offered him a penny.Ostendite mihi numisma census. At illi obtulerunt ei denarium.  20 And Jesus saith to them: Whose image and inscription is this?Et ait illis Jesus : Cujus est imago haec, et superscriptio?  21 They say to him: Caesar's. Then he saith to them: Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar's; and to God, the things that are God's.Dicunt ei : Caesaris. Tunc ait illis : Reddite ergo quae sunt Caesaris, Caesari : et quae sunt Dei, Deo.

This teaching is from Matthew 22:1-40 and continues our exploration into Jesus' final week of his ministry before his death and resurrection. While there is rising anger against Him Jesus' heart is to continue to work to call those against Him to the truth of the Scriptures and to God.  Jesus makes it clear that it is possible to be incredibly religious and yet have no real genuine relationship with God. Pastor finishes exploring the 3 parables in Matthew 21 and 22 with today's dive starting with the third parable where we see that these individuals, the religious leaders, truly did not understand the scripture and did not respond to the obvious. 3 Parables     1.    Indictment (Matthew 21:28-32)     2.    Sentencing (Matthew 21:33-46) These two parables were discussed in last week's teaching. Use the links below to listen to Matthew Week 30)     3.     Execution (Matthew 22:1-14) is shown in the Parable of the Marriage Feast. It starts by saying the kingdom of heaven is like a King (God) who prepared a wedding banquet for His Son (the Messiah coming to Israel).  All of Israel was invited - the One they have been longing for!  The king sends out his servants to let the invitees know of the banquet, but even though they have been eagerly anticipating the Messiah's arrival, verse 53 says, “but they refused to come.” The king again sends his servants out to announce the banquet saying the dinner is prepared and all is ready! Come to the wedding banquet! (The long awaited Messiah is here!!  Come celebrate!) The parable goes on to say the invited paid no attention to this second invite and some seized the servant announcing the invite and killed him.  This enraged the king and he sent his army and destroyed the murderers and burnt down their city. (This is a foreshadowing - Jesus knows what is coming - because religious leaders and others rejected Him - not only reject Him but will kill Him and so this is Jesus giving a head up that judgement is coming to the city of Jerusalem (this will be discussed further in the upcoming weeks) The parable continues with the king telling the servants that as those invited did not come that they are to invite anyone they find.(prostitutes, tax collectors, and the non-Jewish world - Gentiles). And the servants filled the wedding hall. In verse 11 the King (God) notices a guest that is not wearing wedding clothes so the king asks him how he got in without the wedding clothes that he was offering to everyone who came. (The white robes of righteousness through faith in Jesus 
Christ). The man not having the clothing was thrown out into the darkness. Jesus is making it very clear that there is salvation and life forever found through faith in Him and Him alone.  He is challenging the religious leadership to see Him for who He is - the prophesied Messiah they have been waiting for! After Jesus told this Parable the Pharisees decided to lay plans to trap Jesus.  They united with the Herodians in a well-planned attack with the question that no matter which way Jesus replied, He would be found guilty by one or the other group. The question: “What is your opinion? Is it right to pay the imperial tax to Caesar or not?”  If He answered yes, pay the tax to Caesar, the Pharisees would have risen up against Him as they were not happy to be under the control of Rome and despised paying tax to the very ones whose rule they were under. If He answered not to pay the tax then the Herodians would have risen up against Him as they supported Roman rule. But Jesus cuts their scheming plan off at the knees by His reply:”Show me the coin used for paying the imperial tax. Whose image and inscription is this?” They replied “Caesar's.” Jesus continues, “So give back to Caesar what is Caesar's and to God what is God's.” Jesus' answer was brilliant. His answer doesn't allow either of them to accuse Him of anything. His response amazed them so they left Him and went on their way. The dissension around Jesus is rising with verbal attack after verbal attack. At each attack the crowds hear Jesus' answers and they are astonished at His teaching while the religious leaders get angrier. Further on in chapter 22 Jesus is asked this question, “Which is the greatest command in the law?” Jesus' answer: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and will all your mind!' This is the first and greatest commandment. The second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the law and prophets hang on these two commandments.” Again they are amazed, but Jesus comes back immediately with a question for them! And it's a really good one!  Come back next week to find out!! Visit our website here https://www.awakeusnow.com Watch the video from our website https://wpww.awakeusnow.com/matthew-discipling Watch the video from Youtube https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOxHZDaamNk9DaM7h7LejJj7 Watch via our app. Text HELLO to 888-364-4483 to download our app. We invite you to join us for our Sunday service every Sunday at 9:30am CT (live or on demand) here: https://www.awakeusnow.com/sunday-service

In today's message, we explore the political tensions in Mark 12:13-17, where Jesus faces a trap set by both Pharisees and Herodians. Through his profound response about giving to Caesar and God, we learn how this teaching challenges both ancient and modern political ideologies, reminding us to prioritize our identity as God's image-bearers above all else. If you would like to get to know more about Akouo Church visit our website www.akouo.church or jump onto our social media. Facebook: / akouochurch Instagram: / akouochurch

Support Common Prayer Daily @ PatreonVisit our Website for more www.commonprayerdaily.com_______________Opening Words:“Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come!”Rev 4:8 (ESV) Confession:*Let us humbly confess our sins unto Almighty God. Almighty and most merciful Father,we have erred and strayed from your ways like lost sheep.We have followed too much the devices and desires of our own hearts.We have offended against your holy laws.We have left undone those things which we ought to have done, and we have done those things which we ought not to have done;and apart from your grace, there is no health in us.O Lord, have mercy upon us.Spare all those who confess their faults.Restore all those who are penitent, according to your promises declared to all people in Christ Jesus our Lord.And grant, O most merciful Father, for his sake, that we may now live a godly, righteous, and sober life, to the glory of your holy Name. Amen. Almighty God have mercy on you, forgive you all your sins through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen you in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep you in eternal life. Amen. The InvitatoryO Lord, open our lips,and our mouths shall show forth your praise. Create in us clean hearts, O God, and renew a right spirit within us. Cast us not away from your presence, and take not your holy Spirit from us. O give us the comfort of your help again, and sustain us with your willing Spirit.Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen. PsalmsPsalm 96Cantate Domino1Sing to the Lord a new song; *sing to the Lord, all the whole earth.2Sing to the Lord and bless his Name; *proclaim the good news of his salvation from day to day.3Declare his glory among the nations *and his wonders among all peoples.4For great is the Lord and greatly to be praised; *he is more to be feared than all gods.5As for all the gods of the nations, they are but idols; *but it is the Lord who made the heavens.6Oh, the majesty and magnificence of his presence! *Oh, the power and the splendor of his sanctuary!7Ascribe to the Lord, you families of the peoples; *ascribe to the Lord honor and power.8Ascribe to the Lord the honor due his Name; *bring offerings and come into his courts.9Worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness; *let the whole earth tremble before him. Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: *as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen. The LessonsIsaiah 45:1-7English Standard Version45 Thus says the Lord to his anointed, to Cyrus,    whose right hand I have grasped,to subdue nations before him    and to loose the belts of kings,to open doors before him    that gates may not be closed:2 “I will go before you    and level the exalted places,I will break in pieces the doors of bronze    and cut through the bars of iron,3 I will give you the treasures of darkness    and the hoards in secret places,that you may know that it is I, the Lord,    the God of Israel, who call you by your name.4 For the sake of my servant Jacob,    and Israel my chosen,I call you by your name,    I name you, though you do not know me.5 I am the Lord, and there is no other,    besides me there is no God;    I equip you, though you do not know me,6 that people may know, from the rising of the sun    and from the west, that there is none besides me;    I am the Lord, and there is no other.7 I form light and create darkness;    I make well-being and create calamity;    I am the Lord, who does all these things.1 Thessalonians 1English Standard Version1 Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy,To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ:Grace to you and peace.2 We give thanks to God always for all of you, constantly mentioning you in our prayers, 3 remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. 4 For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you, 5 because our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction. You know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your sake. 6 And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you received the word in much affliction, with the joy of the Holy Spirit, 7 so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia. 8 For not only has the word of the Lord sounded forth from you in Macedonia and Achaia, but your faith in God has gone forth everywhere, so that we need not say anything. 9 For they themselves report concerning us the kind of reception we had among you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, 10 and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.Matthew 22:15-22English Standard Version15 Then the Pharisees went and plotted how to entangle him in his words. 16 And they sent their disciples to him, along with the Herodians, saying, “Teacher, we know that you are true and teach the way of God truthfully, and you do not care about anyone's opinion, for you are not swayed by appearances. 17 Tell us, then, what you think. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?” 18 But Jesus, aware of their malice, said, “Why put me to the test, you hypocrites? 19 Show me the coin for the tax.” And they brought him a denarius. 20 And Jesus said to them, “Whose likeness and inscription is this?” 21 They said, “Caesar's.” Then he said to them, “Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.” 22 When they heard it, they marveled. And they left him and went away. The Word of the Lord.Thanks Be To God. The PrayersLord, have mercy.Christ, have mercyLord, have mercyOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen. IntercessionTake a moment of silence at this time to reflect and pray for others. The CollectsProper 24Almighty and everlasting God, in Christ you have revealed your glory among the nations: Preserve the works of your mercy, that your Church throughout the world may persevere with steadfast faith in the confession of your Name; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.A Prayer of St. John ChrysostomAlmighty God, you have given us grace at this time, with one accord to make our common supplications to you; and you have promised through your well-beloved Son that when two or three are gathered together in his Name you will grant their requests: Fulfill now, O Lord, our desires and petitions as may be best for us; granting us in this world knowledge of your truth, and in the age to come life everlasting. Amen. BenedictionThe grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us all evermore. Amen

Paying Taxes to Caesar 15 Then the Pharisees went and plotted how to entangle him in his words. 16 And they sent their disciples to him, along with the Herodians, saying, “Teacher, we know that you are true and teach the way of God truthfully, and you do not care about anyone's opinion, for you are not swayed by appearances. 17 Tell us, then, what you think. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?” 18 But Jesus, aware of their malice, said, “Why put me to the test, you hypocrites? 19 Show me the coin for the tax.” And they brought him a denarius. 20 And Jesus said to them, “Whose likeness and inscription is this?” 21 They said, “Caesar's.” Then he said to them, “Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.” 22 When they heard it, they marveled. And they left him and went away. English Standard Version (ESV) The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

Finding the place of politics within the Kingdom of God. 09/29/24 15 Then the Pharisees went out and laid plans to trap him in his words. 16 They sent their disciples to him along with the Herodians. “Teacher,” they said, “we know that you are a man of integrity and that you teach the way of God in […]

We're on an incredible journey through Matthew's gospel, and today we return to chapter twenty-two. In verses 15-22 the Pharisees and Herodians are up to no good, attempting to trap Jesus yet again. But Jesus saw right through it! Through this exchange we'll be addressing some financial questions, like what does the Bible say about paying taxes? To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/621/29

Mark 12:13–27 (Listen)Paying Taxes to Caesar13 And they sent to him some of the Pharisees and some of the Herodians, to trap him in his talk. 14 And they came and said to him, “Teacher, we know that you are true and do not care about anyone's opinion. For you are not swayed by appearances,1 but truly teach the way of God. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not? Should we pay them, or should we not?” 15 But, knowing their hypocrisy, he said to them, “Why put me to the test? Bring me a denarius2 and let me look at it.” 16 And they brought one. And he said to them, “Whose likeness and inscription is this?” They said to him, “Caesar's.” 17 Jesus said to them, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.” And they marveled at him.The Sadducees Ask About the Resurrection18 And Sadducees came to him, who say that there is no resurrection. And they asked him a question, saying, 19 “Teacher, Moses wrote for us that if a man's brother dies and leaves a wife, but leaves no child, the man3 must take the widow and raise up offspring for his brother. 20 There were seven brothers; the first took a wife, and when he died left no offspring. 21 And the second took her, and died, leaving no offspring. And the third likewise. 22 And the seven left no offspring. Last of all the woman also died. 23 In the resurrection, when they rise again, whose wife will she be? For the seven had her as wife.”24 Jesus said to them, “Is this not the reason you are wrong, because you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God? 25 For when they rise from the dead, they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven. 26 And as for the dead being raised, have you not read in the book of Moses, in the passage about the bush, how God spoke to him, saying, ‘I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob'? 27 He is not God of the dead, but of the living. You are quite wrong.”Footnotes[1] 12:14 Greek you do not look at people's faces [2] 12:15 A denarius was a day's wage for a laborer [3] 12:19 Greek his brother(ESV)

Mark 12:13–27 (Listen) Paying Taxes to Caesar 13 And they sent to him some of the Pharisees and some of the Herodians, to trap him in his talk. 14 And they came and said to him, “Teacher, we know that you are true and do not care about anyone's opinion. For you are not swayed by appearances,2 and let me look at it.” 16 And they brought one. And he said to them, “Whose likeness and inscription is this?” They said to him, “Caesar's.” 17 Jesus said to them, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.” And they marveled at him. The Sadducees Ask About the Resurrection 18 And Sadducees came to him, who say that there is no resurrection. And they asked him a question, saying, 19 “Teacher, Moses wrote for us that if a man's brother dies and leaves a wife, but leaves no child, the man3 must take the widow and raise up offspring for his brother. 20 There were seven brothers; the first took a wife, and when he died left no offspring. 21 And the second took her, and died, leaving no offspring. And the third likewise. 22 And the seven left no offspring. Last of all the woman also died. 23 In the resurrection, when they rise again, whose wife will she be? For the seven had her as wife.” 24 Jesus said to them, “Is this not the reason you are wrong, because you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God? 25 For when they rise from the dead, they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven. 26 And as for the dead being raised, have you not read in the book of Moses, in the passage about the bush, how God spoke to him, saying, ‘I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob'? 27 He is not God of the dead, but of the living. You are quite wrong.” Footnotes [1] 12:14 Greek you do not look at people's faces [2] 12:15 A denarius was a day's wage for a laborer [3] 12:19 Greek his brother (ESV)

Saturday, 31 August 2024   But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to his baptism, he said to them, “Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Matthew 3:7   “And having seen many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming about his immersion, he said to them, ‘Vipers' offspring! Who disclosed to you to flee from the coming wrath?'” (CG).   In the previous verse, it noted that those who went out to John the Baptist were baptized by him in the Jordan, confessing their sins. Now Matthew, while speaking of John, says, “And having seen many of the Pharisees and Sadducees.”   These are the main two groups addressed in the gospel narratives in relation to spiritual matters. However, there are other groups that are mentioned at times in leadership positions, such as the Herodians. As for these two groups, there are many extensive commentaries on them. One of the most detailed is that of Albert Barnes. For brevity, the commentary of Cambridge is provided –   Pharisees] The name signifies “Separatists;” the party dates from the revival of the National life, and observances of the Mosaic Law under the Maccabees. Their ruling principle was a literal obedience to the written law and to an unwritten tradition. Originally they were leaders of a genuine reform. But in the hands of less spiritual successors their system had become little else than a formal observance of carefully prescribed rules. “The real virtues of one age become the spurious ones of the next.” Prof. Mozley, Sermon on Pharisees. The “hypocrisy” of the Pharisees, which stifled conscience and made them “incapable of repentance,” is the special sin of the day rebuked more than any other by the Saviour. Politically they were the popular party, supporters of an isolating policy, who would make no terms with Rome or any other foreign power. The Zealots may be regarded as the extreme section of the Pharisees. The Sadducees were the aristocratic and priestly party, they acquiesced in foreign rule, and foreign civilization. They refused to give the same weight as the Pharisees to unwritten tradition, but adhered strictly to the written law of Moses. Their religious creed excluded belief in a future life, or in angels and spirits (Acts 23:8). The name is probably derived from Zadok the priest in David's time. Others with less probability connect it with Zadok, a disciple of Antigonus of Socho, who lived in the second century b. c. The derivation from tsaddik (righteous) is untenable.   Of these two groups, Matthew notes that they were “coming about his immersion.”   They probably had questions about his authority, purpose, doctrine, intent, and so forth. If so many people were coming to him, was he a threat to their authority and teaching? And if this was the case, how could they trap him in his own words, etc.?   We can assume that the questions these groups will ask of Jesus, as recorded in the gospels, were similar to those they would have asked John about now. Therefore, knowing their lives and form of religion, “he said to them, ‘Vipers' offspring!'”   The word is echidna, a poisonous snake. The identification of this snake should not be pressed too far because the same word is used when referring to a snake on the island of Malta in Acts 28.   The serpent was introduced at the fall of man in Genesis 3. This is probably a reference to that. Serpents continue to be noted in Scripture after that. One instance is especially highlighted in the account of the time during the wilderness wanderings in Numbers 21. There, the people were bit by serpents, and many died. In this, the people acknowledged their sins, and a remedy was given by the Lord to heal the people.   As such, the main thought of John is probably that of these men being the spawn of Satan who cause the people to sin, separating them from God. They were the evil offspring of their evil parent acting in crafty and malevolent ways. After so addressing them, John next says, “Who disclosed to you to flee from the coming wrath?'”   He uses the word hupodeiknumi. It is a compound word signifying “to exhibit under the eyes.” It is only used six times in the New Testament, and it is variously translated. Many translations say something like “warned,” or “forewarned.” Contextually, that may be the idea, but it is more of a paraphrase. For example, the word is used in Acts 20 when speaking about what one should do –   “I have shown [hupodeiknumi] you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.'” Acts 20:35   For a word that gives the underlying sense of the meaning, disclose is sufficient. John questioned these men, asking who had disclosed to them to flee from the coming wrath. It would be difficult to think that John meant this literally as if they truly were coming to hear his message and reconsider their ways.   Whether John knew their true intent or not, or whether he merely suspected it, Jesus knew exactly what these men were thinking. Their words were often duplicitous toward Him. Two examples of this are found in Matthew 22:15-33 where first the Pharisees and then the Sadducees tried to trip Him up.   Understanding this, John may have been speaking to them in a tongue-in-cheek manner with a sarcastic emphasis in his question to them. In other words, “Wrath is coming, it will come on all offenders, but you don't think you even lie in that category, so what are you doing here inquiring about my immersion for repentance?”   As for the wrath that lay ahead, it had been prophesied in the Scriptures that Israel would be exiled twice. Exile implies war, famine, and death. It implies the destruction of their land. But there is also the final wrath of judgment when all men stand before God. These men probably felt secure that they would escape both.   Paul, however, addresses the issue of coming wrath several times (Ephesians 5:6, 1 Thessalonians 1:10, etc.). One main time, specifically speaking of these particular Jews, he writes –   “For you, brethren, became imitators of the churches of God which are in Judea in Christ Jesus. For you also suffered the same things from your own countrymen, just as they did from the Judeans, 15 who killed both the Lord Jesus and their own prophets, and have persecuted us; and they do not please God and are contrary to all men, 16 forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they may be saved, so as always to fill up the measure of their sins; but wrath has come upon them to the uttermost.” 1 Thessalonians 2:14-16   Life application: The wrath of God is something that cannot be dismissed when the Bible is read and accepted at face value. To sin is to miss the mark with God. In this, judgment must come. The very nature of God demands it. To not accept His provision for forgiveness and atonement of sin means that His wrath, by default, remains upon that person.   The religious leaders of Israel were under God's judgment for sin. They were offered forgiveness through the atoning work of Jesus Christ, but most of them never accepted God's offer. They remained under His wrath because of this. We must remember that no person is good enough or can do enough good to be pleasing to God. That belongs to the Lord alone who fully pleased His Father. Therefore, only by coming to God through Jesus can one be saved. Be wise and accept the offer that God has made in the giving of Jesus!   “And the grace of our Lord was exceedingly abundant, with faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. 15 This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief. 16 However, for this reason I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show all longsuffering, as a pattern to those who are going to believe on Him for everlasting life. 17 Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.” 1 Timothy 1:14-17   Heavenly Father, You have sent Jesus! Thank You, O God, for having done for us what we could never do. You alone are to be praised for Your goodness to us in reconciling us through the precious blood of Jesus our Lord. Hallelujah to You. Amen.

As Jesus faces off with the religious leaders in Luke 20:1-18, He delivers a profound lesson that resonates with believers today. The Pharisees and Herodians, despite their differences, unite with a common goal: to trap Jesus with a tricky question about paying taxes to Caesar. Jesus, with divine wisdom, answers in a way that not only silences His opponents but also sets a precedent for how believers are to navigate the tension between earthly and heavenly responsibilities. Join us as we explore what it means to "render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's," and discover how this teaching shapes our lives as both citizens of this world and ambassadors of God's eternal kingdom.

As Jesus faces off with the religious leaders in Luke 20:1-18, He delivers a profound lesson that resonates with believers today. The Pharisees and Herodians, despite their differences, unite with a common goal: to trap Jesus with a tricky question about paying taxes to Caesar. Jesus, with divine wisdom, answers in a way that not only silences His opponents but also sets a precedent for how believers are to navigate the tension between earthly and heavenly responsibilities. Join us as we explore what it means to "render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's," and discover how this teaching shapes our lives as both citizens of this world and ambassadors of God's eternal kingdom.

Jesus goes another round with the Pharisees, Sadducees and Herodians, as He spins circles around their attempts to trap Him in His words. Join our private Gold Membership for Christian women here. No matter your age or stage of life, step into God's purpose with our eBook, 'Rediscover, Redefine, Reclaim' here. Follow Dr. Melody on IG: @dr.melody_fitplusfaith

Support Common Prayer Daily @ PatreonVisit our Website for more www.commonprayerdaily.com_________________OpeningBlessed be God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.And blessed be his kingdom, now and for ever. Amen.Come, let us worship God our King.Come, let us worship Christ, our King and our God.Come, let us worship Christ among us, our King and our God.Holy God,holy and mighty,holy immortal one,have mercy upon us. (3x)Glory be to the + Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,now and always and forever and ever. Amen. From Psalm 51Open my lips, O Lord, *and my mouth shall proclaim your praise.Create in me a clean heart, O God, *and renew a right spirit within me.Cast me not away from your presence *and take not your holy Spirit from me.Give me the joy of your saving help again *and sustain me with your bountiful Spirit.Glory be to the + Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,now and always and forever and ever. Amen. A PsalmPsalm 48Magnus DominusGreat is the Lord, and highly to be praised; in the city of our God is his holy hill.Beautiful and lofty, the joy of all the earth, is the hill of Zion, the very center of the world and the city of the great King.God is in her citadels; he is known to be her sure refuge.Behold, the kings of the earth assembled and marched forward together.They looked and were astounded; they retreated and fled in terror.Trembling seized them there; they writhed like a woman in childbirth, like ships of the sea when the east wind shatters them.As we have heard, so have we seen, in the city of the Lord of hosts, in the city of our God; God has established her for ever.We have waited in silence on your loving-kindness, O God, in the midst of your temple.Your praise, like your Name, O God, reaches to the world's end; your right hand is full of justice.Let Mount Zion be glad and the cities of Judah rejoice, because of your judgments.Make the circuit of Zion; walk round about her; count the number of her towers.Consider well her bulwarks; examine her strongholds; that you may tell those who come after.This God is our God for ever and ever; he shall be our guide for evermore. Glory be to the + Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,now and always and forever and ever. Amen. The Readings1 Corinthians 2:6-9English Standard VersionYet among the mature we do impart wisdom, although it is not a wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are doomed to pass away. But we impart a secret and hidden wisdom of God, which God decreed before the ages for our glory. None of the rulers of this age understood this, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. But, as it is written,“What no eye has seen, nor ear heard,nor the heart of man imagined,what God has prepared for those who love him”The Word of the LordThanks Be to God Matthew 22:15-22English Standard VersionThen the Pharisees went and plotted how to entangle him in his words. And they sent their disciples to him, along with the Herodians, saying, “Teacher, we know that you are true and teach the way of God truthfully, and you do not care about anyone's opinion, for you are not swayed by appearances. Tell us, then, what you think. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?” But Jesus, aware of their malice, said, “Why put me to the test, you hypocrites? Show me the coin for the tax.” And they brought him a denarius. And Jesus said to them, “Whose likeness and inscription is this?” They said, “Caesar's.” Then he said to them, “Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.” When they heard it, they marveled. And they left him and went away.The Word of the LordThanks Be to GodThe Apostles' CreedI believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth;I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead.I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. ExamenIn God's presence, think through the day ahead:the work you will do, the people you will encounter, the dangers or uncertainties you face, the possibilities for joy and acts of kindness, any particular resolutions you need to renew, consider what might draw you from the love of God and neighbor, the opportunities you will have to know and serve God and to grow in virtue, remember those closest to you and all for whom you have agreed to pray, ask God's blessings, guidance, and strength in all that lies before you. Gather up these thoughts and reflections in the wordsOur Savior taught us to say: The Lord's PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. The Collects of the DayGrant to us, Lord, we pray, the spirit to think and do always those things that are right, that we, who cannot exist without you, may by you be enabled to live according to your will; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. Lord God, almighty and everlasting Father, you have brought us in safety to this new day: Preserve us with your mighty power, that we may not fall into sin, nor be overcome by adversity; and in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Closing PrayersA Prayer of St. ChrysostomAlmighty God, you have given us grace at this time with one accord to make our common supplication to you; and you have promised through your well-beloved Son that when two or three are gathered together in his Name you will be in the midst of them: Fulfill now, O Lord, our desires and petitions as may be best for us; granting us in this world knowledge of your truth, and in the age to come life everlasting. Amen. Glory be to the + Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,now and always and forever and ever. Amen.Lord, have mercy! (3x)God, be gracious to us and bless us and shine Your countenance upon us and have mercy on us.This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it!The Father+ is my hope; the Son, my refuge; the Holy Spirit, my protection: All-Holy Trinity, glory to You!Amen!

Support Common Prayer Daily @ PatreonVisit our Website for more www.commonprayerdaily.com_________________OpeningBlessed be God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.And blessed be his kingdom, now and for ever. Amen.Come, let us worship God our King.Come, let us worship Christ, our King and our God.Come, let us worship Christ among us, our King and our God.Holy God,holy and mighty,holy immortal one,have mercy upon us. (3x)Glory be to the + Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,now and always and forever and ever. Amen. From Psalm 51Open my lips, O Lord, *and my mouth shall proclaim your praise.Create in me a clean heart, O God, *and renew a right spirit within me.Cast me not away from your presence *and take not your holy Spirit from me.Give me the joy of your saving help again *and sustain me with your bountiful Spirit.Glory be to the + Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,now and always and forever and ever. Amen. A PsalmPsalm 42QuemadmodumAs the deer longs for the water-brooks, so longs my soul for you, O God.My soul is athirst for God, athirst for the living God; when shall I come to appear before the presence of God?My tears have been my food day and night, while all day long they say to me, "Where now is your God?"I pour out my soul when I think on these things; how I went with the multitude and led them into the house of God,With the voice of praise and thanksgiving, among those who keep holy-day.Why are you so full of heaviness, O my soul? and why are you so disquieted within me?Put your trust in God; for I will yet give thanks to him, who is the help of my countenance, and my God.My soul is heavy within me; therefore I will remember you from the land of Jordan, and from the peak of Mizar among the heights of Hermon.One deep calls to another in the noise of your cataracts; all your rapids and floods have gone over me.The Lord grants his loving-kindness in the daytime; in the night season his song is with me, a prayer to the God of my life.I will say to the God of my strength, “Why have you forgotten me? and why do I go so heavily while the enemy oppresses me?”While my bones are being broken, my enemies mock me to my face;All day long they mock me and say to me, “Where now is your God?”Why are you so full of heaviness, O my soul? and why are you so disquieted within me?Put your trust in God; for I will yet give thanks to him, who is the help of my countenance, and my God. Psalm 43Judica me, DeusGive judgment for me, O God, and defend my cause against an ungodly people; deliver me from the deceitful and the wicked.For you are the God of my strength; why have you put me from you? and why do I go so heavily while the enemy oppresses me?Send out your light and your truth, that they may lead me, and bring me to your holy hill and to your dwelling;That I may go to the altar of God, to the God of my joy and gladness; and on the harp I will give thanks to you, O God my God.Why are you so full of heaviness, O my soul? and why are you so disquieted within me?Put your trust in God; for I will yet give thanks to him, who is the help of my countenance, and my God. Glory be to the + Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,now and always and forever and ever. Amen. The Readings2 Corinthians 8:7-15English Standard VersionBut as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all earnestness, and in our love for you—see that you excel in this act of grace also.I say this not as a command, but to prove by the earnestness of others that your love also is genuine. For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich. And in this matter I give my judgment: this benefits you, who a year ago started not only to do this work but also to desire to do it. So now finish doing it as well, so that your readiness in desiring it may be matched by your completing it out of what you have. For if the readiness is there, it is acceptable according to what a person has, not according to what he does not have. For I do not mean that others should be eased and you burdened, but that as a matter of fairness your abundance at the present time should supply their need, so that their abundance may supply your need, that there may be fairness. As it is written, “Whoever gathered much had nothing left over, and whoever gathered little had no lack.”The Word of the LordThanks Be to God Mark 3:6-12English Standard VersionThe Pharisees went out and immediately held counsel with the Herodians against him, how to destroy him.Jesus withdrew with his disciples to the sea, and a great crowd followed, from Galilee and Judea and Jerusalem and Idumea and from beyond the Jordan and from around Tyre and Sidon. When the great crowd heard all that he was doing, they came to him. And he told his disciples to have a boat ready for him because of the crowd, lest they crush him, for he had healed many, so that all who had diseases pressed around him to touch him. And whenever the unclean spirits saw him, they fell down before him and cried out, “You are the Son of God.” And he strictly ordered them not to make him known.The Word of the LordThanks Be to GodThe Apostles' CreedI believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth;I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead.I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. ExamenIn God's presence, think through the day ahead:the work you will do, the people you will encounter, the dangers or uncertainties you face, the possibilities for joy and acts of kindness, any particular resolutions you need to renew, consider what might draw you from the love of God and neighbor, the opportunities you will have to know and serve God and to grow in virtue, remember those closest to you and all for whom you have agreed to pray, ask God's blessings, guidance, and strength in all that lies before you. Gather up these thoughts and reflections in the wordsOur Savior taught us to say: The Lord's PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. The Collects of the DayGrant to us, Lord, we pray, the spirit to think and do always those things that are right, that we, who cannot exist without you, may by you be enabled to live according to your will; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. Lord God, almighty and everlasting Father, you have brought us in safety to this new day: Preserve us with your mighty power, that we may not fall into sin, nor be overcome by adversity; and in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Closing PrayersA Prayer of St. ChrysostomAlmighty God, you have given us grace at this time with one accord to make our common supplication to you; and you have promised through your well-beloved Son that when two or three are gathered together in his Name you will be in the midst of them: Fulfill now, O Lord, our desires and petitions as may be best for us; granting us in this world knowledge of your truth, and in the age to come life everlasting. Amen. Glory be to the + Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,now and always and forever and ever. Amen.Lord, have mercy! (3x)God, be gracious to us and bless us and shine Your countenance upon us and have mercy on us.This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it!The Father+ is my hope; the Son, my refuge; the Holy Spirit, my protection: All-Holy Trinity, glory to You!Amen!

Bible Studies Archive RSS Quotes from Jesus and the Land by Gary M Burge, Baker Academic, 2010What the New Testament does not say Perhaps it is helpful to begin by suggesting what views are foreign to the New Testament itself. There is no suggestion, for example, that in some manner Christians may now assume for themselves the land promises given to the patriarchs. Despite the clear New Testament argument that in faith followers of Christ can make a defensible claim to the legacy of Abraham, even to be called the "children of Abraham," still, the promise of that legacy - the land - is never claimed. The New Testament shows no interest in building a Christian Holy Land, no passion for constructing a kingdom in the name of Christ that might be centered at Jerusalem. We hear no calls in the New Testament that would soon become familiar to Byzantine and European armies. This alone is remarkable. The Church was born into a Jewish world saturated with debates about territorial faith, and it chose - deliberately - not to compete as yet one more territorial religion. As we have seen, the impetus for this decision no doubt came from its Lord. The Gospels show us with keen subtlety how Jesus navigated these debates and how he dislodged his own followers from the passions that inflamed territorial movements of his day. Neither is there any interest in the New Testament to look at the Hebrew Scriptures and Judaism and validate their territorial claims. The New Testament community did not share in the growing momentum within the first century to make the Holy Land exclusively Jewish once more. Throughout the entire century including the great war of AD 66 the followers of Jesus separated themselves from Jewish territorialism. To read the Old Testament prophetic promises into that world of Romans and Zealots might well have been seen as fantastic and perhaps naive. If the identity of the true descendants of Abraham was on the table for discussion, then simple calls for Jewish fulfillment and Christian allegiance would have sounded odd. Christian theology asked withering questions about territorial religion, especially of the sort found in Judea.Land and politics in Jesus' world In the volatile climate of first-century politics -among a people living under the harsh realities of the Roman military occupation - we should not expect a public teacher like Jesus to speak explicitly about the land and its rightful owners. To exhibit resistance to Rome is to run up against a skilled army which is watching for signs of subversion. To show cooperation with Rom is to run up against fellow Jews for whom such sympathies are intolerable. In every explosive political context (both today and in antiquity), people with opinions must remain opaque to the many listeners standing in the shadows who are choosing sides.Two initial observations deserve attention. First, Jesus is surprisingly silent with regard to the territorial aspirations and politics of his day. The national ambitions of Judaism under Rome constantly pressed Jewish leadership to respond. Either Judea was capitulating to the occupation or Judea had to organize to defeat it. However, Jesus is oddly silent about the debate. Moreover Jesus is curiosly receptive to contact with the occupiers. In Matthew 8:5-13, he responds to the request of a Roman centurion whose valued servant was ill. Here we find no repulsion of the soldier, no condemnation of Gentiles, but rather we find receptivity and welcome. He says of the Roman: "Not even in Israel have I found such faith" ( 8. 10 ). What emerges is a general impression that Israel's national ambitions tied to reclaiming the land live on the margin of Jesus' thinking.There was a Roman law (now well known) that if a Roman soldier wanted a defeated subject to be his porter, he could demand it. This rule included use of the person's donkey and cart as well. But the law limited this service to one (Roman) mile. Although this provision for forced labor was deeply resented, in Matthew 5.41 Jesus announces that if you are told to go one mile in such a situation, go two miles! And he says more. In 5:44 he commands his followers to love “their enemies” and pray for those who persecute them. There are certain allusions to the Roman occupation that not only deny political resistance but were no doubt inexplicable to Jesus' followers. In a word, Jesus is strangely unsympathetic to attitudes that would demand resistance to Roman and the struggle for the land as religious duties. However, in an important passage, Jesus is tested by those who chose aggressive resistance. Following the removal of the corrupt and violent Archelaus (son of Herod 1) in AD 6, the subsequent political disruption that brought direct Roman rule to the land inspired new forms of Jewish resistance. Instability and reorganization in AD 6 presented an ideal opportunity for this agenda. For many Jews Roman taxation had become a burdensome symbol of Israel's enslavement and it was widely believed that it was the basis of Judea's financial value to the empire. In AD 6, tax revolts sought to lessen this value. Mark 12.13-17 records Jesus confronted by "Pharisees and Herodians" two groups with deep, though different, concerns about the occupation. Their question concerning taxes ("Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?" RSV) is not innocent but a veiled, opaque public test. When Jesus inspects a coin, sees Caesar's image, and directs them to "render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's," we can fairly interpret this as a refusal to support the tax revolt. Some scholars see this revolt as the beginning of the Zealot movement (Antiquities, 18.1) and this passage as Jesus' explicit denial of their agenda. The kingdom he advocated could not be co-opted by nationalistic movement that sought to win back the land by force.Matthew records an even more direct test. In Matthew 17:24-27 tax collectors ask Jesus' disciples if he “pays the tax.” In this case it is the annual Temple tax - an entirely different matter from the tax revolt against Rom. nevertheless the half-shekel tax was controversial and denied by some (including Qunmran) as an intervention of the Pharises. Jesus acknowledges that such taxes are the prerogative of kings who place these burdens particularly on those who are not their sons. Jesus suggests that sons (of kings) do not pay such taxes but he will pay so as not to bring offense. Jesus then performs a miracle where Simon Peter finds a coin in a fish's mouth and pays up. Once again Jesus does what is required, conforming to those "kings" who would levy taxes. Cooperation is chosen above resistance; compliance is endorsed over refusal.

  Today's Topics: 1) Gospel - Mk 12:13-17 - Some Pharisees and Herodians were sent to Jesus to ensnare Him in His speech. They came and said to Him, “Teacher, we know that You are a truthful man and that You are not concerned with anyone's opinion. You do not regard a person's status but teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. Is it lawful to pay the census tax to Caesar or not? Should we pay or should we not pay?” Knowing their hypocrisy He said to them, “Why are you testing Me? Bring Me a denarius to look at.” They brought one to Him and He said to them, “Whose image and inscription is this?” They replied to Him, “Caesar's.” So Jesus said to them, “Repay to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God.” They were utterly amazed at Him. Bishop Sheen quote of the day 2) The coming vilification of Brandon McManus https://cforc.com/2024/05/the-coming-vilification-of-brandon-mcmanus/ 3) Trump conviction: "No impact" on voting in key states https://www.theepochtimes.com/us/trump-conviction-has-had-no-impact-on-how-americans-will-vote-in-key-states-confidential-memo-5660958 4) Five inspiring ways Saint Thomas Aquinas showed his profound devotion to the Eucharist https://www.churchpop.com/5-inspiring-ways-saint-thomas-aquinas-showed-his-profound-devotion-to-the-eucharist

“Is it lawful to pay the census tax to Caesar or not? Should we pay or should we not pay?” Knowing their hypocrisy he said to them, “Why are you testing me? Bring me a denarius to look at.” Mark 12:14–15These Pharisees and Herodians were sent to trap Jesus in His speech. These men were very politically minded and loved to pick sides and find fault with others. They were self-righteous and cared little about the salvation of souls. So they came to Jesus with what appeared to be an innocent question. They appear to presume that Jesus would voice opposition to paying the census tax to Caesar, and, if He did, they were ready to report Him to the civil authorities. They didn't care about the truth; they only cared about trapping our divine Lord. When they brought the Roman coin to Jesus with the image of Caesar on it, Jesus spoke that profoundly wise line, “Repay to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God.”Clearly, if these hypocritical religious leaders would have come to Jesus with humility and sincerity, Jesus would have responded to them much differently. But because they came only to trap, twist and destroy our Lord, Jesus puts them in their place with an act of divine wisdom. He doesn't show support for paying the census tax, nor does He speak against it. Therefore, this Gospel passage ends with the line: “They were utterly amazed at him.” “Amazement” is the right response. Therefore, in a sense, we can learn from these hypocritical religious leaders. Whenever we come face-to-face with the profound wisdom of God, we should experience awe and holy amazement.Of course, the amazement they experienced was on account of Jesus thwarting their evil trap. But even though that is the case, we can learn from this that the wisdom of God can never be outdone. God's wisdom silences the foolishness of the age and reveals the hidden malice behind that evil. Have you ever been confronted by the trickery of the secular “know-it-alls” of our age.Have you ever been challenged by another, had your faith directly attacked, or your moral convictions called into question? Most likely, if you have chosen to live your faith openly and with confidence, you may have felt the attack of another. For those who lack a deep faith and a clear gift of divine wisdom, such trickery can cause confusion and anxiety. You may find you do not know how to respond and feel trapped by the erroneous “wisdom” of the age. In that case, what do you do? The only answer to the false doctrines and deceptions we will all encounter within the growingly secular and atheist world is the answer that comes from divine wisdom. By ourselves, none of us is wise enough to combat these errors. Therefore, our only recourse is to continually turn to the wisdom of God.We turn to the wisdom of God through prayer and sacred study. Our prayer opens our minds to the clear voice of God Who speaks pure truth. And sacred study, especially of the Scripture, the teachings of the Church and the lives of the saints, will help to clarify God's voice and dispel the confusion the world tries to throw at us. In the end, if we are not immersing our minds in the true wisdom of God, we will be unprepared for that which we encounter within the world. Reflect, today, upon your need to be filled with divine wisdom so as to navigate the trickery and foolishness of the world. Acknowledge that you are not wise enough on your own to cut through the confusion of life. Pray for the gift of wisdom and allow our Lord to bestow it upon you.Lord of all Truth, You are wise beyond all worldly wisdom, and You thwart the trickery of the evil one. Open my mind, dear Lord, to Your holy Truth so that I may be able to navigate through the challenges of life. Bestow Your wisdom upon me, dear Lord, so that I may follow You wherever You lead. Jesus, I trust in You. Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2024 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.Featured image above: The Tribute Money By Leopold Layer, via Wikimedia Commons