King James Version
Preface God reveals himself to mankind through His word. For many centuries, millions of people have been impacted, challenged and blessed by the message of the Bible. Its inspired words call human beings into a close relationship with God, touch their lives, mold their character and bring comfort to them in their afflictions. The family is very important in God’s eyes. It is, so to speak, “the apple of his eye”. He has a special concern and cares for this institution, which He created for different purposes: that a man and a woman may love each other with unconditional love; that the members of a family may provide for the physical and emotional needs of each of its members; that people may overcome loneliness and have a sure and secure haven against the pressures and turbulence of this world. In God’s view, the family is the place where people are schooled and molded for life. For over three decades I have been teaching God’s Word to the families. And what I have seen is not a heartening scenario. In a most ruthless and relentless way, Satan is trying to ravage and destroy this important cell or unit of society, attacking its foundations and values. Satan’s aim is to destroy man. In order to achieve this aim, he tries to destroy the family. Thus, it is part of his strategy to break up marriages, to weaken the ties that bind children to their parents, and to make human beings more vulnerable, by preventing them from a deeper fellowship with their Lord and Savior. In view of such a threatening scenario, our Ministry has decided to reach the following goals: ♦ declare that marriage is for life, i.e. that it is indissoluble; ♦ foster the spiritual and emotional well-being in the family; ♦ affirm the holiness of the role which God has assigned to each person in the family; ♦ try to secure a spiritual heritage for the next generation, by strengthening families in which children are committed to the Lord God. May this “Family Bible” encourage and motivate more and more families to dig in and stand firm against the onslaughts of Satan, the great enemy of the Body of Christ. That is what my wife and I sincerely hope and pray for. We cannot waste anymore any opportunity to strengthen and deepen marital and familial relationships. Our commentaries, which are tied to the text of different chapters, are meant to help the reader to meditate on Biblical principles for the family. This will demonstrate that God’s Word, in its wisdom and efficacy, can and will strengthen and enrich the life of a family. May the Lord bless abundantly the lives of thousands of families through the reading and studying of this Family Bible. Jim and Judy Kemp
Devotional Index Adolescents I am for peace! .....................................................................................Matthew 5.9,23—24 .....................936 Flee sexual immorality! .......................................................................1 Corinthians 6.12-20 ................. 1140 How to handle anger - self control! .....................................................Galatians 5.19-23 ........................ 1179
Adults It is not an alternative lifestyle ............................................................Deuteronomy 22.5 ........................ 211 Divorce and re marriage ......................................................................Deuteronomy 24.1 4 ..................... 213 When one doesn’t want to… ...............................................................Amos 3.3 .......................................883
Children Dealing with the root of the problem..................................................Genesis 4.8 ...................................... 11 Trust your parents................................................................................Leviticus 26 ................................... 135 Do it today! ..........................................................................................Numbers 12................................... 156 Nothing is more important than our relationship with God ..............Deuteronomy 7.3 4 ....................... 195 A good disciple of Christ ......................................................................I Samuel 15.22 23 .........................302 Freedom or slavery?.............................................................................2 Kings 17 .....................................407 Respect your father and mother!.........................................................Mark 7.9-13 ................................... 981 An exercise in love and faith ...............................................................Ephesians 6.1-3 ........................... 1193
Christians In times of suffering ............................................................................Daniel 9.25 ....................................864 God loved me when I was growing in secret ......................................Luke 1.41 .....................................1002 You don’t need to feel guilty anymore! ...............................................John 8.3-11 ................................. 1054 Cords of love ........................................................................................Acts 6.1-3.....................................1084 Get out of your shell! ...........................................................................1 Corinthians 1.26-31 ................. 1135 A weapon for destroying fortresses .....................................................2 Corinthians 10.3-5 ................... 1170 Putting others first ...............................................................................Philippians 2.1-11........................ 1197 Holy, faultless, and innocent ...............................................................Colossians 1.21-22 ......................1204 Your job description .............................................................................1 Thessalonians 5.9-11 ............... 1214
Couples Intimacy ...............................................................................................Genesis 3.7, 9—10............................. 8 Invest in your relationship ...................................................................Genesis 29.31 35 .............................34 The blessing that parents bring to a marriage ....................................Exodus 2.16 22................................ 61 Significant gestures .............................................................................Exodus 18.7 8.................................. 78 God wants us to be faithful .................................................................Exodus 20.17 ...................................80 Life is sacred ........................................................................................Exodus 21.22 25 ............................. 81 Not everything is valid ........................................................................Exodus 22.16 17..............................83 Parents should be positive models for their children..........................Exodus 34.5 8 .................................96 God says no! .........................................................................................Leviticus 20.10 21 ......................... 127 Using your leisure time well ................................................................Judges 13.4 5 ................................ 270 Thank you, Lord ..................................................................................2 Chronicles 7.10........................... 457 Make a promise to yourself .................................................................Job 31.1 .........................................543
xviii This blessing called sex........................................................................Hebrews 13.4 ..............................1253 Listen with your heart .........................................................................James 1.19...................................1260 Confession and prayer bring healing ..................................................James 5.16...................................1264 Real love chases worries away ............................................................1 John 4.7-19 ...............................1285 When love grows cold..........................................................................Revelation 2.4-5..........................1295 Happily ever after! ...............................................................................Revelation 2.4b ...........................1296
Dating/Courtship A very special gift ................................................................................ 1 Corinthians 6.13 .......................1141
Divorced women Comfort for the abandoned woman ....................................................Isaiah 54 .......................................727
Family Devotions You can count on me! ..........................................................................Genesis 18.14 .................................. 21 Dealing with death ..............................................................................2 Kings 2.11 15 .............................388 See what God has done .......................................................................2 Kings 6.15 23 .............................394
Family Study The reunion..........................................................................................Genesis 46.29 30 ............................54 Rocks of remembrance ........................................................................Joshua 4 ........................................230 The wall will fall down........................................................................Joshua 6 ........................................ 231 No one or nothing can resist God’s power ..........................................Joshua 10.5 14 ..............................237 A man of courage!................................................................................Joshua 14.6 15 .............................. 241 Who are you and your family going to serve? ....................................Joshua 24.14 15 ............................ 251 Help when going through suffering ....................................................Psalm 119.132 ............................... 613 Recognize how much you mean to God..............................................Isaiah 40.11...................................709 Raise your hands in praise ..................................................................Isaiah 40.25 .................................. 710 Reverence God alone ...........................................................................Isaiah 44.8 .................................... 716 Renounce all other gods ......................................................................Isaiah 44.19................................... 718 Remember God’s faithfulness..............................................................Isaiah 51.12-13 ..............................723 Reflect on what Jesus has done...........................................................Isaiah 53.12...................................726 Re-evaluate your priorities ..................................................................Isaiah 55.2 ....................................728 Request what you need........................................................................Isaiah 65.21-24 .............................735 God keeps his promises .......................................................................Zechariah ...................................... 915
Family Family, blessing from God for the human race ...................................Genesis 1.26 31 ................................. 4 No time to relax ...................................................................................Genesis 2.2 3..................................... 5 Ministering God’s grace in family relationships..................................Genesis 45.3 15............................... 52 “Lord, look what you’ve done!” ...........................................................Exodus 14.10 11 ..............................73 The Lord will fight for you...................................................................Exodus 14.13 14 .............................. 74 With God nothing is impossible ..........................................................Exodus 17.8 13 ................................77 Jesus Christ – the perfect sacrifice ......................................................Leviticus 1 ..................................... 105 Our offerings to God............................................................................Leviticus 1—2 ............................... 106 An offering that lasts forever...............................................................Leviticus 6 ..................................... 109 Skeletons in the closet .........................................................................Leviticus 18.6 18 ...........................124 The disciple of Christ always tells the truth........................................Leviticus 19.11 ..............................126 The Special Guest ................................................................................Leviticus 23 ...................................130 Everything we have belongs to God....................................................Leviticus 27—28 ........................... 137 What do you do when you feel afraid? ...............................................Numbers 13.27 31 ........................ 157
xxiii Don’t fight temptation. Run from it!....................................................Proverbs 6.20-35...........................630 An appointment with Jesus .................................................................2 Thessalonians 1—3 ................. 1216 Leading the family: privilege and responsibility ................................1 Timothy 3.4.............................. 1221 The head of the house .........................................................................1 Timothy 3.4a............................1222 Poison that spreads – II ........................................................................Hebrews 12.15 ............................ 1251 Don’t throw more wood on the fire.....................................................1 Peter 3.7 ................................... 1271 Victory over the enemy ........................................................................1 Peter 5.8-9................................ 1275
Married A life that is pleasing to the Lord..........................................................1 Thessalonians 4.1-8 ................1213 Get away, distance yourself, run! .........................................................2 Timothy 2.22 ......................... 1230
Men Running after the wind .......................................................................Genesis 3.17 19 ................................. 9 What are your priorities? .....................................................................Genesis 13 ....................................... 17 Connected with God ............................................................................Genesis 18.16 33 .............................22 Take care of your thoughts ..................................................................Genesis 19.1 29 ...............................23 The strength that comes from God .....................................................Genesis 39 ....................................... 45 God cares for us ...................................................................................Genesis 50.20.................................. 58 Dad, do you want the best for your child? ..........................................Numbers 14.18 .............................. 158 Eli’s sin .................................................................................................I Samuel 1—4 ...............................288 Obedience brings honor.......................................................................2 Chronicles 15 .............................464 What makes a good leader? ................................................................Nehemiah 4.14 ..............................503 The steps to seduction .........................................................................Proverbs 7.6-20 .............................632 Is there anything wrong with just looking? ........................................Matthew 5.27-28........................... 937 Loving leadership.................................................................................1 Corinthians 11.3,8-9,11—12 .... 1151 Different but the same .........................................................................Galatians 3.26-28 ....................... 1177 Just between us ...................................................................................Ephesians 5.23 ............................ 1190 Fulfilled wives = Happy husbands......................................................Ephesians 5.25 ............................ 1191 Don’t waste the opportunity to be a good father ................................1 Thessalonians 2.7-13 ............... 1211
Mothers Sibling rivalry – advice to parents .......................................................Genesis 37 ....................................... 42 Trusting God and preparing for battle ................................................Judges 4.4 23 ................................258 Josiah, a welcome change ...................................................................2 Kings 22 ..................................... 414 A mother’s challenge ...........................................................................2 Timothy 1.5..............................1229
Newlyweds God’s advice to newlyweds ..................................................................Genesis 2.18 25 ................................. 6 It’s hard, but necessary ........................................................................Genesis 2.24...................................... 7 The honeymoon: romance and enchantment .....................................Genesis 4.1 ...................................... 10
Parents Dare to be different..............................................................................12 God´s Word is never out of date ..........................................................Numbers 1—10 ............................. 140 I sure do miss those family nights! ......................................................Numbers 1—2 ............................... 141 Don’t be discouraged! ..........................................................................Numbers 11...................................154 Helping your children remember ........................................................Numbers 15.37 41......................... 161 An investment that brings eternal dividends ......................................Deuteronomy 6.1 25 ..................... 193 Child training – Questions for reflection ............................................Deuteronomy 6.1 9 .......................194 Do as I say and as I do .........................................................................Deuteronomy 26.16 19 ................. 215
xxv
Singles What are your heart’s desires? ............................................................Psalm 37.4 ..................................... 572 Whom should I marry? ........................................................................Proverbs 3.5-6...............................626 Being single has its advantages ...........................................................Ecclesiastes 3.1-8 ..........................662 Looking for the other half?..................................................................John 15.1-5..................................1068
Those in the process of divorce When life turns upside down .............................................................. Hebrews 13.5b............................ 1254
Unbelievers How to make peace with God…..........................................................Isaiah 53.3-4 .................................725 Confess your sin to God .......................................................................Isaiah 59.2..................................... 731 God’s deepest desire ............................................................................Ezekiel 33.11 .................................832 The family of God ................................................................................John 3.16..................................... 1045 Starting over ........................................................................................Acts 16.25-34 .............................. 1098
Wives What kind of a wife are you? ..............................................................Judges 14—16............................... 272 You are the best! ..................................................................................Proverbs 31.10-31 .........................658 How much is your husband worth to you? .........................................Ephesians 5.33 ............................ 1192 Being submissive isn’t being inferior ...................................................Colossians 3.18............................1207 Poison that spreads – I .........................................................................Hebrews 12.15 ............................1250 A wife’s God-given role ........................................................................1 Peter 3.1 ...................................1268
Women Pregnancy ............................................................................................Genesis 25.21 26............................. 29 A beautiful woman ..............................................................................Esther 4.12 16 ............................... 518 Restoration after an abortion ..............................................................Hosea 2.14-15 ...............................869 Woman to woman................................................................................1 Corinthians 7.34b .................... 1147 The cycle of life ....................................................................................Titus 2.3-5...................................1234 Is it a house or a home? .......................................................................Titus 2.4-5 ...................................1235 Don’t be harsh. Be gentle. ....................................................................James 3.17...................................1263 An effective witness .............................................................................1 Peter 3.1-6 ................................ 1267 Inner beauty.........................................................................................1 Peter 3.3-4 ...............................1269 Don’t be afraid! Trust and rest! ...........................................................1 Peter 5.7 ................................... 1274
Young People On being shy ........................................................................................Exodus 4.11 .....................................63 Music, healing for the soul ..................................................................1 Samuel 16.23 .............................304 Is it worth the risk? ..............................................................................1 Kings 11 ..................................... 367 Listening to the wisdom of those who are older .................................1 Kings 12 .....................................369 It keeps me from sinning .....................................................................Psalm 119.9-11 .............................. 610 Swimming against the current............................................................Romans 12.1-2 ............................ 1127 Overcoming temptation .......................................................................1 Corinthians 10.13 .................... 1149 Like trying to mix oil and water ..........................................................2 Corinthians 6.14-18 ................. 1166
The Gospel Of
Matthew Introduction The Gospel according to Matthew presents Jesus as the Messiah, the Savior God had promised to send into the world. The Gospel begins with a list of Jesus’ forefathers, which connects him to the history of God’s people. Jesus fulfills the promises made to David and to Abraham, the father of the chosen people. Then the author speaks about the birth of Jesus, quoting passages from the Old Testament in order to show that Jesus is indeed the Messiah sent by God (1.23; 2.5-6; 2.15; 2.17-18; 2.23). In this Gospel, the events in Jesus’ life appear in the same order as in The Gospel according to Mark. After being baptized by John the Baptist, Jesus is tempted in the wilderness and then he goes to Galilee where he teaches the crowds, heals the sick and casts out demons. Matthew stresses in particular Jesus’ teaching ministry. He arranges many of Jesus’ teachings in five speeches: 1) The Sermon on the Mount in which Jesus speaks about the character, the duties, the privileges, and the destiny of those who belong to the kingdom of God (chs. 5—7); 2) instructions to the twelve Apostles concerning their mission of announcing the coming of the kingdom of heaven (ch. 10); 3) the mysteries of the kingdom of God presented in the form of parables (ch. 13); 4) teachings about the Church, the new community of followers of Jesus (ch. 18); 5) teachings about the end of the world and the kingdom of heaven (chs. 24—25). Besides these speeches, Matthew records additional words spoken by Jesus. For example, in Matthew 23 he warns and condemns teachers of the Law and the Pharisees (23.1-36). Outline The beginning of the Gospel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.1—4.11 1. Jesus’ forefathers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.1-17 2. The birth and childhood of Jesus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.18—2.23 3. The preaching of John the Baptist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.1-12 4. The baptism of Jesus and his temptation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.13—4.11 Jesus in Galilee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.12—18.35 1. The beginning of his ministry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.12-25 2. The Sermon on the Mount . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.1—7.29 3. Healings and teachings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8.1—9.38 4. Instructions to the twelve Apostles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10.1-42 5. Friends and enemies of Jesus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11.1—12.50 6. Parables of the kingdom of heaven . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13.1-52 7. The final ministry of Jesus in Galilee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13.53—17.27 8. Instruction about the new covenant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18.1-35 From Galilee to Jerusalem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19.1—20.34 The Messiah in Jerusalem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.1—27.66 1. Controversies and teachings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.1—23.39 2. Teachings about the end of the age . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24.1—25.46 3. Jesus’ betrayal, trial, and crucifixion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26.1—27.66 Jesus’ resurrection and his appearances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28.1-20
Matthew 1 — 2
1
1 THE
932
book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. 2 Abraham begat Isaac; and Isaac begat Jacob; and Jacob begat Judas and his brethren; 3 And Judas begat Phares and Zara of Thamar; and Phares begat Esrom; and Esrom begat Aram; 4 And Aram begat Aminadab; and Aminadab begat Naasson; and Naasson begat Salmon; 5 And Salmon begat Booz of Rachab; and Booz begat Obed of Ruth; and Obed begat Jesse; 6 And Jesse begat David the king; and David the king begat Solomon of her that had been the wife of Urias; 7 And Solomon begat Roboam; and Roboam begat Abia; and Abia begat Asa; 8 And Asa begat Josaphat; and Josaphat begat Joram; and Joram begat Ozias; 9 And Ozias begat Joatham; and Joatham begat Achaz; and Achaz begat Ezekias; 10 And Ezekias begat Manasses; and Manasses begat Amon; and Amon begat Josias; 11 And Josias begat Jechonias and his brethren, about the time they were carried away to Babylon: 12 And after they were brought to Babylon, Jechonias begat Salathiel; and Salathiel begat Zorobabel; 13 And Zorobabel begat Abiud; and Abiud begat Eliakim; and Eliakim begat Azor; 14 And Azor begat Sadoc; and Sadoc begat Achim; and Achim begat Eliud; 15 And Eliud begat Eleazar; and Eleazar begat Matthan; and Matthan begat Jacob; 16 And Jacob begat Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ. 17 So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations; and from David until the carrying away into Babylon are fourteen generations; and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ are fourteen generations. 18 ¶Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. 19 Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily. 20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.
21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins. 22 Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, 23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. 24 Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife: 25 And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name Jesus. 1 NOW when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, 2 Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him. 3 When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. 4 And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born. 5 And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet, 6 And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel. 7 Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, enquired of them diligently what time the star appeared. 8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also. 9 When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. 10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. 11 ¶And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.
2
1.1 a Luke 3.23 b Psa 132.11; Isa 11.1; Jer 23.5; John 7.42; Acts 2.30; Rom 1.3 c Gen 12.3; Gal 3.16 1.2 a Gen 21.2 b Gen 25.26 c Gen 29.35 1.3 a Gen 38.27 b Ruth 4.18; 1 Chron 2.5,9 1.6 a 1 Sam 16.1 b 2 Sam 12.24 1.7 1 Chron 3.10 1.10 2 Kings 20.21; 1 Chron 3.13 1.11 1 Chron 3.15; 2 Kings 24.14; 2 Chron 36.10; Jer 27.20; Dan 1.2 1.12 1 Chron 3.17,19 1.13 Ezra 3.2; 5.2; Neh 12.1; Hag 1.1 1.18 a Luke 1.27 b Luke 1.35 1.19 Deut 24.1 1.20 Luke 1.35 1.21 a Luke 1.31 b Acts 4.12; 5.31; 13.23,38 1.23 Isa 7.14 1.25 Exod 13.2; Luke 2.7,21 2.1 Luke 2.4,6-7; Gen 10.30; 25.6; 1 Kings 4.30 2.2 Luke 2.11; Num 24.17; Isa 60.3 2.4 2 Chron 36.14; 34.13; Mal 2.7 2.6 a Mic 5.2; John 7.42 b Rev 2.27 2.11 Psa 72.10-11; Isa 60.6
933 Matthew 1.23
Matthew 2 Family
Jesus: God with us! “Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.” (Matthew 1.23)
Human history is divided into two phases: before and after Christ. Jesus transformed the world with his arrival, with his life. Christianity can be defined as the desire of God to come to us and save all who draw near to him through his Son, Jesus Christ. When Jesus was born, people reacted in different ways. King Herod felt threatened and wanted to kill him. The three wise men that came from the East, worshipped him and gave him gifts. The religious leaders of the day were too busy with their own interests to pay attention to his birth, although it had been prophesied many years before. People today react in the same way. However, it is important for each person to know who Jesus is and what he came to do. He always made it very clear that he was the Son of God. Listen to what he said about himself: “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him” (John 14.6-7). Notice what others said about him: “And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book: But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name” (John 20.30-31). What did God the Father say about him? When Jesus was baptized, a voice from heaven said, “And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 3.17). The miracles also testify of him. Jesus said, “If I do not the works of my Father, believe me not. But if I do, though ye believe not me, believe the works: that ye may know, and believe, that the Father is in me, and I in him” (John 10.37-38). Then, there is the testimony of Scripture. Jesus told the people, “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life” (John 5.39-40). He was talking about all the Old Testament prophecies about his birth, ministry and death. Where is Jesus now? The Bible tells us that he is seated at the right hand of the throne of God, interceding for us. Scripture also makes it very clear that he will come again to receive those who have put their trust in him. However, those who have not received him as Savior will have to face him as their judge. Jim 12 And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way. 13 And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him. 14 When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt: 15 And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son.
2.12 Matt 1.20 2.15 Hos 11.1 2.17 Jer 31.15
16 ¶Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently enquired of the wise men. 17 Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying, 18 In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not. 19 ¶But when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeareth in a dream to Joseph in Egypt,
Matthew 2 — 4
934
20 Saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and go into the land of Israel: for they are dead which sought the young child’s life. 21 And he arose, and took the young child and his mother, and came into the land of Israel. 22 But when he heard that Archelaus did reign in Judaea in the room of his father Herod, he was afraid to go thither: notwithstanding, being warned of God in a dream, he turned aside into the parts of Galilee: 23 And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, He shall be called a Nazarene. 1 IN those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, 2 And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. 3 For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. 4 And the same John had his raiment of camel’s hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild honey. 5 Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan, 6 And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins. 7 ¶But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8 Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance: 9 And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. 10 And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. 11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: 12 Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.
3
13 ¶Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. 14 But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me? 15 And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him. 16 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: 17 And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. 1 THEN was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. 2 And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred. 3 And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. 4 But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. 5 Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple, 6 And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone. 7 Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God. 8 Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; 9 And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. 10 Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. 11 Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him. 12 ¶Now when Jesus had heard that John was cast into prison, he departed into Galilee; 13 And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim:
4
2.22 Matt 3.13; Luke 2.39 2.23 John 1.45; Judg 13.5 3.1 Mark 1.4; Luke 3.2; John 1.28; Josh 14.10 3.2 Dan 2.44; Matt 4.17 3.3 Isa 40.3; Mark 1.3; Luke 3.4; John 1.23; Luke 1.76 3.4 Mark 1.6; 1 Kings 1.8; Zech 13.4; Lev 11.22; 1 Sam 14.25-26 3.5 Mark 1.5; Luke 3.7 3.6 Acts 19.4,18 3.7 Matt 12.34; Luke 3.7-9; Rom 5.9; 1 Thes 1.10 3.9 John 8.33,39; Acts 13.26; Rom 4.1,11 3.10 Matt 7.19; Luke 13.7; John 15.6 3.11 a Mark 1.8; Luke 3.16; John 1.15,26,33; Acts 1.5 b Isa 4.4; 44.3; Mal 3.2; Acts 2.3-4; 1 Cor 12.13 3.12 a Mal 3.3 b Mal 4.1 3.13 Mark 1.9; Luke 3.21; Matt 2.22 3.16 a Mark 1.10 b Isa 11.2; Luke 3.22; John 1.32-33; 12.28 3.17 Psa 2.7; Isa 42.1; Matt 12.18; Mark 1.11; Luke 9.35; Eph 1.6; Col 1.13; 2 Pet 1.17 4.1 Mark 1.12; Luke 4.1; 1 Sam 18.12; Ezek 3.14 4.4 Deut 8.3 4.5 Neh 11.1,18; Isa 48.2; Matt 27.53; Rev 11.2 4.6 Psa 91.11 4.7 Deut 6.16 4.10 Deut 6.13; 10.20; Josh 24.14; 1 Sam 7.3 4.11 Heb 1.14 4.12 Mark 1.14; Luke 3.20; 4.14,31; John 4.43
935 14 That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, 15 The land of Zabulon, and the land of Nephthalim, by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles; 16 The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up. 17 ¶From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. 18 ¶And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. 19 And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. 20 And they straightway left their nets, and followed him. 21 And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them. 22 And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed him. 23 ¶And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people. 24 And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them. 25 And there followed him great multitudes of people from Galilee, and from Decapolis, and from Jerusalem, and from Judaea, and from beyond Jordan. 1 AND seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him: 2 And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying, 3 Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4 Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. 5 Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.
5
Matthew 4 — 5
We can’t avoid but we can worries, face t the right wa hem y. 6 Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. 7 Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. 8 Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. 9 Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. 10 Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. 12 Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you. 13 ¶Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. 14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. 15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. 17 ¶Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. 18 For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. 19 Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.
4.15 Isa 9.1-2 4.16 Isa 42.7; Luke 2.32 4.17 Mark 1.14-15; Matt 10.7 4.18 Mark 1.16,18; Luke 5.2; John 1.42 4.19 Luke 5.10-11 4.20 Mark 10.28; Luke 18.28 4.21 Mark 1.19; Luke 5.10 4.23 Matt 9.35; 24.14; Mark 1.14,21,34; 4.15,44 4.25 Mark 3.7 5.1 Mark 3.13 5.3 Luke 6.20; Psa 51.19; Prov 16.19; Isa 57.15 5.4 Isa 61.2; Luke 6.21; John 16.20; 2 Cor 1.7; Rev 21.4 5.5 Psa 37.14; Rom 4.13 5.6 Isa 55.1; 65.13 5.7 Psa 41.1; Matt 6.14; Mark 11.25; 2 Tim 1.16; Heb 6.10; Jam 2.13 5.8 Psa 15.3; Heb 12.14; 1 Cor 13.12; 1 John 3.2 5.10 2 Cor 4.17; 2 Tim 2.12; 1 Pet 3.14 5.11 Luke 6.22; 1 Pet 4.14 5.12 Luke 6.23; Acts 5.41; 7.52; Rom 5.3; Jam 1.2; 1 Pet 4.13; 2 Chron 36.16; Neh 9.26; Matt 23.34,37; 1 Thes 2.15 5.13 Mark 9.49; Luke 14.34-35 5.14 Prov 4.18; Phil 2.15 5.15 Mark 4.21; Luke 8.16 5.16 1 Pet 2.12; John 15.8; 1 Cor 14.25 5.17 Rom 3.31; 10.4; Gal 3.24 5.18 Luke 16.17 5.19 Jam 2.10
Matthew 5
936
Matthew 5.9,23–24
Adolescents/Youth
I am for peace! “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.” (Matthew 5.9)
Work for peace! This is what Jesus taught. In order that there might be harmony in the home, it’s necessary for each member of the family to work for peace. When children reach adolescence, it’s normal for them to have some differences of opinion with their parents. Young people have their own perspective on things and want to make their own choices. They may even stop listening to what their parents have to say. If you are a young person, you need to know that it was God who chose your father and mother and gave them authority over you. They are there to teach you about life. That’s why it’s important that you live in harmony, in an atmosphere of cooperation, love, respect, and peace. It is very important that you obey them. At times you may think that it’s impossible to react positively. However, the Lord has given some creative and workable principles to help promote peace in the home. • Recognize that you need your parents and that they are important to you. Obey them, even when it means letting go of your own rights. Submit, even when you think they are being unjust. If they are unbelievers, respect and care for them so that you might win them to Christ. Your behavior as a peacemaker will cause them to respect you, and this will provide more opportunities to talk calmly with them about those areas where you disagree. • Whenever necessary, ask your parents for forgiveness. Jesus taught us to do this. Swallow your pride and have a humble spirit. In Matthew 5.24 it says, “…go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother…” Young people have a tendency to be selfish and think that they are always right. But you know that isn’t always true. Try to look at things from your parents’ point of view. Try to understand them. Keep a humble spirit. Always work to maintain harmony in your home. Be for peace! Jim 20 For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. 21 ¶Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment: 22 But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire. 23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; 24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. 25 Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him; lest at any time the
adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison. 26 Verily I say unto thee, Thou shalt by no means come out thence, till thou hast paid the uttermost farthing. 27 ¶Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: 28 But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart. 29 And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell. 30 And if thy right hand offend thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell. 31 It hath been said, Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement:
5.20 Rom 9.31; 10.3 5.21 Exod 20.13; Deut 5.17 5.22 a 1 John 3.15 b Jam 2.20 5.23 Matt 8.4 5.24 Job 42.8; Matt 18.19; 1 Tim 2.8; 1 Pet 3.7 5.25 Prov 25.8; Luke 12.58-59; Psa 31.6; Isa 55.6 5.27 Exod 20.14; Deut 5.18 5.28 Job 31.1; Prov 6.25; Gen 34.2; 2 Sam 11.2 5.29 Matt 18.8-9; Mark 9.43,47; Matt 19.12; Rom 8.13; 1 Cor 9.27; Col 3.5 5.31 Deut 24.1; Jer 1; Matt 19.3; Mark 10.2
937 Matthew 5.27-28
Matthew 5 Men
Is there anything wrong with just looking? “But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.” (Matthew 5.28)
In our day and age, it’s very common for people to show off their naked bodies in magazines, on television, in pornographic films, or on the internet. Nudity, pornography and immorality are everywhere and sometimes we find them without even looking for them. All it takes is the press of a computer key or a button on the remote control. Every newsstand has erotic photos of beautiful, sensuous women. Many times even Christians may be tempted to look, but this evil should be avoided at all costs. These kinds of thoughts and mental images will never be good for us. God didn’t invent sex and sexuality to be dragged through the mud. Looking at a naked or half-naked woman, no matter how attractive she may be, will bring lascivious thoughts. Once these thoughts are allowed to take over, they will be difficult to control. Many married people have great difficulty resisting temptation. God has established limits to help protect the sacredness of marriage. Going beyond these limits will lead to adultery. In order to discover whether or not your “look” is sinful, reflect on the following questions: • Do you welcome the temptation? In other words, do you find yourself enjoying looking at someone of the opposite sex and having erotic thoughts about that person? • When you look at someone of the opposite sex, do you let your imagination run wild with impure thoughts? Do you imagine yourself in bed with that person? • If you were absolutely sure that you would never get caught, would your sinful thoughts become a reality? If you answered YES to any of the above questions, pay close attention to Jesus’ words, “…That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart” (Matthew 5.28). Watch your behavior, repent of your sin, and ask God for forgiveness. Protect your marriage. Dedicate your eyes to your spouse. Be like Job who promised himself “…why then should I think upon a maid?” (Job 31.1). Jim 32 But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery. 33 ¶Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths: 34 But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God’s throne: 35 Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King. 36 Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black. 37 But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil.
38 ¶Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: 39 But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. 40 And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloke also. 41 And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain. 42 Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away. 43 ¶Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. 44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
5.32 Matt 19.9; Luke 16.18; Rom 7.3; 1 Cor 7.10 5.33 Matt 23.16; Exod 20.7; Lev 19.12; Num 30.2; Deut 5.11; 23.23 5.34 Matt 23.16; Jam 5.12; Isa 66.1 5.35 Psa 48.2 5.37 Col 4.6; Jam 5.12 5.38 Exod 21.24; Lev 24.20; Deut 19.21 5.39 Prov 20.22; Luke 6.29; Rom 12.17; 1 Cor 6.7; 1 Thes 5.15; 1 Pet 3.9; Isa 50.6; Lam 3.30 5.41 Matt 27.32; Mark 15.21 5.42 Deut 15.8,10; Luke 6.30,35 5.43 Lev 19.18; Deut 23.6 5.44 Luke 6.27,35; 23.34; Rom 12.14,20; Acts 7.59; 1 Cor 4.12; 1 Pet 2.23