What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus was given the titles by the crowds, “the Son of David” (in answer to the prophecy that the Messiah would be from the line of David) and “prophet.” Jesus has a brilliant mind, and worthily discusses and debates with the smartest religious and political people of the day. […]
Matthew 20
What did I learn about Jesus? He is a generous God, full of grace (verses 1-16). Jesus gave his life as payment for many (verse 28). What did I learn about disciple-making? The plan has to be reiterated—here Jesus lets his disciples in on the end goal- his death and resurrection- a third time (verses […]
Matthew 19
What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus has something to say about marriage and divorce, and it’s radical to our current world culture (verses 3-12). Jesus has something to radical to say about money, too (verses 20-30). What did I learn about disciple-making? Don’t be afraid to address the difficult stuff of life, especially sex […]
Disciple-maker?  Me?  You’re CRAZY!
It is such a simple idea… and it seems to have taken hold of our church community. The 90 Day Challenge to read one chapter of a gospel every day and answer two questions: What do I learn about Jesus and What do I learn about disciple-making? This morning I will ask once again how […]
Matthew 18
What did I learn about Jesus? It is natural for Jesus to leave the 99 to search for the 1 who is lost (verse 12). Jesus is concerned that we practice forgiveness. What did I learn about disciple-making? Jesus gave plenty of practical instruction, including how to deal with sin-related conflict (verses 15-17). We need […]
As if joy itself made them speak….
As if joy itself made them speak. I felt a bit out of place walking into the Women’s Correctional facility in Bangkok. Beyond dealing with the typical third culture adjustments, it was further overwhelming to pass by hundreds of women dressed in the light blue and pink as they assembled Adidas shoeboxes and Banana […]
Matthew 17
What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus is God’s Son and furthermore, is not a son of the earth (verses 5, 24-27). Jesus knows the plan to be killed and resurrected (verses 22-23). What did I learn about disciple-making? Jesus let his disciples know the direction they were heading (verses 22-23). Faith grows over time—the […]
Matthew 16
What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus is the promised Christ! (verse 20) Jesus is on a mission—to go to Jerusalem, to die, and to be raised again (verses 21-22). What did I learn about disciple-making? Disciples might go from dead right to dead wrong in a moment (verses 16, 22) Don’t downplay the cost […]
Matthew 15
What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus is concerned with what defiles the heart, not outward appearances. Jesus is looking for people of faith. What did I learn about disciple-making? Sometimes you have to teach the same lesson twice (multiplying loaves again!). We may be surprised who Jesus calls to follow him. Extended thoughts […]
Matthew 14
What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus insists on his own self-care. Jesus commends the risk-taking Peter, even when he fails. What did I learn about disciple-making? Bring Jesus what you have—he will multiply it (verses 19-20). Respond to Jesus’ invitation to, “Come” (verse 29). Extended thoughts and observations: Again, I offer my thoughts […]