MATTHEW Men's Bible Study
Soundcloud Audio from MATTHEW Men's Bible Study
(FEBRUARY 17th, 2015 to JANUARY 5th, 2016)
Notes from Men's Bible Study on MATTHEW
MATTHEW 1
- Christ, the anointed.
- Son of David and Son of Abraham – referring to specific prophecies that, through them Christ, as a man, would come.
- Jesus was from the beginning, when he came as a man he was the same Jesus as in the beginning but he left his divinity in heaven when he came to earth.
- Only difference with Jesus, a man, was that he had the anointing. After his resurrection he gives that anointing, the same one he had, to all who will follow and obey him.
- Jesus kept the entire rule book and it is why he could take away the sin of the world. It is why he has the preeminence in all things.
- We can partake of his divinity and minister out of his divinity by grace.
- There are 4 Gospels. Ezekiel 1 and Revelation 4 are two visions of the same thing, the throne of God. Four beasts, each has the face of a man, a lion, an eagle, and an ox. Reflective of the four attributes/natures of Christ. This is reflected in the four Gospels:
- Matthew makes clear Jesus is the lion of the tribe of Judah;
- Mark shows the power of God, the ox;
- Luke shows the humanity of God, the man;
- John shows the divinity of God, the eagle.
- People think the Bible is divided. Jesus is the Word of God. You see him, the Word of God, coming to Ezekiel, John, Adam. He is the same yesterday, today and forever.
- This line in Matthew is Joseph’s line. Luke shows Mary’s line. Jesus was an heir through both Joseph and Mary.
- Abraham begat two children but the promise was to Isaac.
- Isaac begat two children but the promise was to Jacob.
- Jacob had twelve children but the promise was to Judas (Judah). David came from Judah.
- Thamar (Tamar) – she is named because of her faithfulness.
- Salmon was the head of the tribe of Judah when they took Jericho. Salmon takes Rachab (Rahab), a Canaanite woman who had been a harlot, as his wife. The fruit of it was Booz (Boaz).
- Booz took Ruth, a Moabite woman, who was faithful.
- Both Rahab and Ruth are noted because of their faithfulness.
- David the king – not the first child of Jesse. You see in God’s decision of David that God looks at people differently than man does.
- Solomon – not David’s first son. Solomon became king in honor of Urias, who was not a Jew, but who was faithful to David unto the death.
- You see in this genealogy that God’s ways are not our ways.
- Some of these kings were faithful, some were not.
- Josiah – during his reign they did not have the scriptures anymore. When found, Josiah rent his clothes because he knew Judah was in danger of God’s judgment.
- With the carrying away of the children into Babylon is the last time there was a king in Judah of David’s lineage.
- You see in the completion of things that things take a certain period of time. Seen through the fourteen generations from Abraham to David, the fourteen generations to the carrying away unto Babylon, the fourteen generations to Christ.
- Espoused – a binding agreement, a much stronger term than fiancé.
- During this period of time that Joseph finds his espoused wife is with child.
- Put her away privily means to have her put to death. This is the first attempt on Jesus’ life. This is a situation where Joseph was to get a house built and have enough finances to support them for the first year of marriage. It was during this time that she was found with child and considered guilty of adultery and should be put to death.
- While Joseph was thinking on these things the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream.
- The idea that there was going to be a child born unto a virgin was according to prophecy, the Jews knew this. Though girls had claimed this before this was the one and only time this was true. Joseph believed what he was told.
- You see here where you see situations that seem impossible are not impossible with God.
- Where it said Joseph was a just man you see it reflected by Joseph’s actions.
- Jesus’ name was given to Joseph. It was up to him to name the child. You see God honoring the line of authority, Joseph being Mary’s husband, by giving to Joseph the name. Joseph named him as he was told.
- Knew her not till (until) – he did not have sexual relations with Mary until after she brought forth her first born son. This highlights that Mary had children. Very clear that Mary was not ever virgin. You see a fundamental doctrine of the largest church in so called Christendom is false.
- We have got to get rid of our own thoughts and traditions and adhere to what the Word says. People oftentimes prefer traditions over that which is right in front of them. God cannot honor that.
MATTHEW 2
- The wise men came from the east of Jerusalem asking where is the King of the Jews. The regions round about where aware the God of Israel was the God of the whole earth.
- The wise men wanted to come and worship him. Contrast this to Herod and the Jews in Jerusalem.
- God uses all things – in this instance he used the heavens, a star.
- Herod and all Jerusalem were troubled. Herod saw it as a threat. All Jerusalem shows how far the people had come from their beginning.
- God didn’t tell the Jews Jesus was born, he told these heathens, these outsiders.
- Herod demanded of the scribes and priests where Christ should be born.
- Interesting they submitted unto Herod in these things. Herod was not of Judah but they owed many things to Herod, including their temple.
- You see an unholy trinity – the chief priests, Herod, the money changers as one. You see the same thing today where ministers submit to the government as their god and submit to the gag order so the money will continue to flow.
- Herod made a thorough investigation. He had plans to make sure this child would be killed.
- You see how the Lord trumps every wicked device of the enemy.
- The same star that brought the wise men to Jerusalem led them right to the Lord.
- They didn’t come to the manger, they came into a house. The shepherds came to the manger where Christ was born. The wise men came into the house where Jesus and Joseph and Mary lived.
- The wise men fell down and worshipped him, a little child. They didn’t know it but they gave him the travel money they were going to need to flee.
- Two dreams, God appearing to the wise men not to go back to Herod, and to Joseph to flee with Jesus and Mary.
- Joseph did not delay at all.
- Shows how we can trust the Lord. We see here God depending on wise men and Joseph to do his will. If he could do it with them he can do it with us.
- Herod slew all the children in Bethlehem and the surrounding area 2 years old and under.
- Joseph interesting – quick to do what the Lord commands him, doing things that seem to be completely counter-intuitive.
- Dwelt in Nazareth – again fulfilling prophecy.
- John the Baptist was a Nazarene because he fulfilled the vow of a Nazarene.
- Jesus was called a Nazarene because he was from Nazareth.
- Why did God use the wise men? You can easily say to provoke Herod to fulfill prophecy. Also, by the time Jesus is 2 years old the vision of the dream was growing dim. The wise men showing up solidified who Jesus was for Joseph and so he was quick when told to flee.
MATTHEW 3
- John the Baptist begins to preach – Repent.
- The Jews of that day were the church of their day. They were out of the way. They did not see themselves as such.
- Repent – you’re going the wrong way and you will be held accountable for it.
- The ministry of John the Baptist was fulfillment of prophecy (Isaiah 40 & Malachi)
- John is preparing the way for Jesus, always pointing to Jesus.
- John was filled with the Spirit in his mother’s womb, that is why he walked in humility.
- John stood in the wilderness and let those who were drawn come to him.
- Baptism of John is not the Christian baptism. Most people today believe baptism in water is the baptism of repentance. The baptism of blood when you accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior is the baptism of repentance. Christian baptism in water is that baptism into the Body of Christ (see Romans 6, Colossians).
- Pharisees and Sadducees – the two religious sects that occupied the high positions in the church of that day.
- Pharisees – the strict keepers of the law. Believed in their own morality. None of that is of faith, they had no concept of mercy.
- The church of today is full of modern day Pharisees.
- When you turn your life to Jesus Christ nothing else needs to be talked about.
- Sadducees – don’t believe in angels or the resurrection. The scripture to them is great moral teachings that can be improved upon.
- John recognizes the Pharisees and Sadducees right off – O generation of vipers, referring to them as of the devil. These are the people who look the absolute best.
- John grieved by the Pharisees and Sadducees – who has warned you, you want to be baptized by me, show me something, show you repented from your wicked ways.
- What John spoke was love.
- A tree is known by its fruit.
- Baptized with fire – baptism of the Holy Ghost – a refining fire, refines your soul, perfects your soul in the faith and love.
- Final judgment – unquenchable fire.
- John is baptizing and Jesus shows up, in humility himself, to be baptized.
- Jesus not coming because he was a sinner but this the way ordained for Jesus to be announced. Also verifies John is of God.
- John – I need to be baptized of you.
- Heavens opened unto John – he saw the Spirit descending like, in the same way a dove would descend, and light upon Jesus.
- John heard God’s voice from heaven.
- Well pleased – you never see the word proud or pride used in a positive way in the scripture. God the Father says of Jesus I am well pleased.
- One thing about pride – you’re taking credit for something. I’m proud to be an American, I had nothing to do with it. I’m pleased to be an American.
- As you go – when you’ve been changed go to your community and preach the Gospel.
- The concept of cookie cutter Christians is not of God. You see this concept in if you’re not like them you’re not of God.
MATTHEW 4
- The first thing that happened after Jesus’ baptism is the Spirit led him into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. Often times we pass through periods in the wilderness to prepare us to do His work. It can be disconcerting but God is seeking to prepare you in a very different way than the way the world prepares you.
- Why we don’t spend a lot of time praying for the Spirit to come and guide and direct us at the beginning of Bible studies. Jesus said when he gave us his Spirit that he would never leave us or forsake us therefore the Spirit is always with us.
- By nature we judge everything by our carnal mind, by ourselves. You see in Scripture that with no time does Jesus justify himself. One of the first things God has to do is drive out of us the self preservation mode that we are in so that we can serve him without wondering how it will affect us.
- 40 days and 40 nights – he was afterward an hungered. Not natural. When a fast is a fast of the Lord it is not a struggle.
- The devil begins, “If though be the Son of God “– seeking to get Jesus to justify himself, to prove himself. This temptation is tied to the lust of the flesh, Jesus is hungry.
- Jesus answers with the Word (this is a sword fight).
- Again the devil tries to get Jesus to prove himself, that he is the Son of God. Now the devil is using the Word but quoting it out of context. The context is that God’s protection was with Jesus and he did not have to worry. Jesus’ response gets right to the devil’s error, “Though shalt not tempt the Lord thy God”. This temptation is the pride of life.
- The third temptation – the devil shows him the kingdoms of the world and the glory of them. He will give them to Jesus if he will bow down and worship him (the devil). Jesus never said the devil was lying. The devil was offering what was (and is) his to give. This temptation is the lust of the eyes.
- Jesus begins his ministry not in the seat of power, Jerusalem, but in Galilee. The seats of power that everyone has their eyes on are controlled by satan.
- Jesus’ response – get out of here.
- Him only shalt thou serve – important. You cannot serve two masters.
- Adam and Eve went through the same temptations, the lust of the eyes – it was a desirous fruit; the lust of the flesh – desirous to eat; the pride of life – it would make them wise as God. It is something we all go through. We need to learn to recognize it and avoid it or defeat it. (see I John 2:16)
- After the devil leaves now the angels of God come and minister to Jesus.
- John was cast into prison because he told Herod it was unlawful for him to have his brother, Philip’s, wife. Interesting that Herod was surrounded by priests and Pharisees who never told him this.
- Jesus leaves his home town, Nazareth, and dwells in Capernaum on the Sea of Galilee. Fulfills a prophecy of Isaiah. Galilee of the Gentiles – border land – like a frontier area. Not populated by all the people who wanted to be rich and famous in the cities.
- Repent – they were out of the way. They could see the people in the cities were wrong but they were wrong too. They had to turn.
- Jesus calls his disciples. Interesting – Peter did not go ask his wife’s permission. A married man leaving his work, leaving his family, traveling for three years with Jesus.
- Got to come to the place where truth is more important to you than anything. When you come to that place you are thankful for things like correction. Things become blessings to you rather than things you hate.
- Jesus now goes all around Galilee teaching in the synagogues preaching the Gospel. The Lord worked with him confirming the Word with signs following.
- There was no sickness or disease that was too big. Jesus healed them all.
- There is nothing that can afflict you on this earth that is too big for Him.
Now people hear the testimony and are coming unto Him by faith. They are receiving of Him what they needed. The power of God trumped/trumps every sickness/abnormality that you can have. - There always comes a time in every believer’s life to either move forward in the truth or reject that truth for your own pride’s sake. That is what happened with these people, that is what happens with the great multitude of people today – they reject the truth. They either receive the love of the truth or they reject it.
- They never wanted Him, they just want the healing so they could go on doing what they want to do not so they could press forward to do what He wants them to do.
MATTHEW 5:1-12
- He sees the multitude, he opened his mouth and speaks. What ministers must do – in that moment you know the Lord is with you and wants to minister to the people and so you open your mouth and speak.
- Poor in spirit – the example of horses, a spirited horse needs to be broken. A horse poor in spirit moves as his the master wants, watches his every movement. So it is with the Lord and with his Spirit. We give up our agenda and only want to know His will and to serve Him.
- When you are poor in spirit, put all of your faith in the Lord, God will bless you mightily and God will use you mightily in battle and you will be a blessing to many.
- Comfort them who mourn – an example is the Apostle Paul who mourned over that which his flesh did. He found the key and was comforted in that (Romans 7).
- Comfort them that mourn – a minister regularly sees what is going on and the blessings (healings, deliverance, etc,) God has for people and mourns at their rejection.
- Meek – the highest example of meekness the scripture testifies of was Moses. The meekness Moses had was that he had no confidence in himself and all his confidence was in God. He did not seem meek to Pharaoh or the enemies of Israel.
- Earth – the new earth, not this earth.
- Hunger and thirst after righteousness – the reason they hunger and thirst after righteousness is they realize they are utterly void of righteousness. What they are filled with is God’s righteousness.
- Easiest way to see if you walk in self righteousness – when someone calls you on something you justify yourself, always have a reason.
- Mercy always comes after judgment. When a person repents they judge themselves as having done wrong. They also extend mercy to others.
- One of the keys to longsuffering is to not take things personal. If you are serving the Lord and they come against you it is not you they are coming against it is the Lord. So what’s it to you?
- Just as in the military – when an officer gives you a commandment that is not in line with the Code of Honor – you don’t do it. Same in the kingdom of God, we have the Bible. If something someone says who says they are in authority doesn’t line up with the Word of God – don’t do it.
- When we receive Jesus Christ he comes into our heart. It is through our faith, obedience and love that we enter into His body. It is then that Christ is seen, not when he enters into your heart.
- Pure in heart – a person one hundred percent sold out to the Lord, means they have perfect faith in Christ. When they come up against difficulties they know Christ is bigger than it.
- When it is not about you, not personal – you minister the hope that Christ has for others. You don’t operated in this unless your faith is all in the Lord.
- Peacemakers – you bring the Gospel of Peace, the Gospel of Jesus Christ – God’s peace treaty he offers to man. You accept it and you are no longer at war with God.
- Peacemakers – you cannot be afraid of bringing a person to that place of decision. People are afraid they won’t be liked.
- If you call yourself a Christian, call yourself a minister and you around people for years and years and they are never brought to a place of decision – something is wrong. There are exceptions were you bring people along slowly (see Jude 22 & 23).
- Persecuted for righteousness sake – those doing and standing in that which is right. Not talking about those who are out there in people’s faces telling them they’re going to hell, that’s not the Gospel. Examples – Jesus Christ, John the Baptist, Stephen, James, the Apostle Paul. They definitely received the Kingdom of heaven.
- Revile – they don’t want to be around you, they speak evil of you, etc. You can’t let this move you at all. Jesus tells you to rejoice and be exceeding glad. Why? Because great is your reward in heaven. You see this plainly in the Book of Acts.
- Walk of faith not something that is going to be pleasing to your flesh.
MATTHEW 5:13-37
- Purpose of salt – it is believers that hold back corruption on this earth. As a consequence you will say things people do not want to hear, you will not stand with people. If you’re not going to do that, corruption overtakes. The consequence is that Christianity is cast out, trodden down. All this is happening today because Christians have lost their savour, they are no longer good to hold back corruption and are good for nothing but to be cast out and trodden under foot.
- If Christians were salty things like evolution, global warming would have no place, people would be afraid to speak them if Christians stood up. Christians today are cowards and self-lovers.
- Light of the world – God put his light in you and you put a bushel over that light. Satan can do nothing without a body. When he went to tempt Eve he took over the body of a serpent. When Judas betrayed Jesus it was because Satan took over his body. Satan didn’t think of this, God did. Why did God give his Holy Spirit – so that he could work through, move through people to show his glory on this earth. When people allow him to use their body His glory is seen over all the earth. Whose using your body?
- The foundation of the Gospel is the love of God. It is through that love, which only comes by the Holy Spirit through Jesus Christ, that God can be glorified. People will not let His love shine through because of pride.
- Works – the works of God – first of all that love of God; secondly, the power of God. You have to put yourself in that place where you are willing to be made a fool of, you have to trust that God will be with you. (Revelation 12: 11 – And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.) The one Christians have a hard time with is dying to oneself.
- What we tend to do, due to pride, is withdraw (into darkness). Without light you die. Takes humility, when it doesn’t matter what you look like. When you draw back you draw back unto death.
- Jesus came both to fulfill the law, the only one who did; the prophets all spoke of Jesus.
- Purpose of the law was to show us we are sinners in need of a savior. It is still doing that today. The removal of the temple took place so nobody could follow the law. Someone could follow all the law but could not follow the ceremonial law because they needed the temple.
- Break one of these least commandments – this is referring to Jesus’ commandments. Revelation 2&3 speaks of seven churches each with their own Apostle and their own anointing. Only one kept the Word of God and loved one another. King David, Abraham, the Apostle Paul, these were pillars. (Rev. 3: 7-10, the church of Philadelphia, brotherly love). Those who break the least of Jesus’ commandments will be least in the Kingdom of Heaven.
- The righteousness that exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees is that which cannot be earned. The righteousness that exceeds it is the righteousness of God which is imputed by faith. It’s a gift. When God the Father imputes righteousness unto someone it is because Jesus earned it. You receive it if you believe.
- Brother – brothers in the synagogue. These were Jews Jesus was speaking to. We don’t go to the altar to sacrifice. Today, don’t come to God with anger in your heart toward a brother or sister in the Lord.
- Raca – a senseless, empty headed man, basically you’re saying that person cannot be saved.
- A lot of people judge where a person is lacking, that is what the grace of God is for.
- Fool – unbeliever (the fool has said in his heart there is no God).
- Agree with thine adversary – when you know you’re guilty – go to your adversary and say you’re guilty, do what it takes to make it right. Don’t justify yourself. Christians walk by a different rule than the world.
- Adultery – even if you’ve lusted in your heart you have committed adultery. Puts us all under guilt. This is how we all are by nature – gives no place for pride.
- Give it no place otherwise it gives the devil a place of entrance. It is why the Scripture says take every thought captive.
- Right eye offend thee, right hand offend thee – speaking to the Jews under the law. Once Jesus died on the cross it became allegorical. Today, in the Body of Christ, you have to separate from people.
- Bill of divorcement – given because of the hardness of their hearts. Jesus saying differently, he took it one step further.
- Forswear – falsely accuse.
- Jesus is saying don’t swear at all. Instead let your yea be yea and your nay be nay, anything else cometh to evil, grayness. The world lives by grayness. Make your decision whichever way it will be.
MATTHEW 5:38 to Matthew 6:13
- Notes to follow
MATTHEW 6:14-34
- If you want God to forgive you, you have to forgive others.
- Usually when people fast everyone knows it. They are often mopey, wanting people to know what they’re doing, that is their reward.
- By contrast – when you decide to fast get up, go to work and do your work, then do it the next day and the next day with no one knowing you are fasting, then God will reward you openly. You will suffer no degradation in your work (God will supply your energy). He will give you something you can sink your teeth in that you can go forth and serve the Lord.
- Your walk of faith has nothing to do with feelings.
- Don’t fast with a set time. If you have a need that needs to be resolved you go into the fast until you get your answer. Example: Daniel, he didn’t set out to fast for 21 days, it took 21 days for him to get an answer.
- When Jesus went out into the desert to fast, it did not say he did not drink water. When he was done he was hungry. We do not know whether he had water or not.
- It is the Lord who accepts the fast.
- Treasures in heaven – can lay up grace and mercy in heaven by extending it to others. Can lay up that which he has given unto me unto him and the work he is doing.
- You can always tell a Christian’s faith by his wallet.
- All things in common – not communism. It is rather that they did not think of things as their own but rather that they were stewards of what God had given them for his use and purposes.
- The eye can see only light.
- Singleness is only the light. Jesus’ eye was single, he was only about his father’s business, had no agenda of his own. Because of that he was able to see and hear what his father wanted. His body was full of light. We can be likewise.
- If you waver and turn to the right or to the left you are filled with darkness.
- Cannot serve 2 masters – mind wavering, no longer engaged, no longer listening, will not hear what you are being told (to do).
- You can’t serve the Lord and be after money, just can’t do it. The deceitfulness of riches.
- Basic necessities people have need of – food and clothing. It is what Jesus’ provision was and he was content. Think of how much time people spend thinking about and worrying about how they are going to acquire these things.
- Gentiles – unbelievers.
- Worry is fear and fear is brought on by satan, not God. If you worry you are not believing God, having faith in the Lord.
- What are we to do? Seek ye first the Kingdom of God (not the Kingdom of Heaven) – seek ye first that you can walk in that place Jesus walked in – healing the sick, casting out devils, raising the dead. Then you will be clothed in his righteousness and go forth in his power.
- The Kingdom of God is the spirit realm in which Jesus operates.
- The Kingdom of God is the power of God, not words. Bringing the reality of God in power – the only way people will know the Gospel is not just a story but is real.
- We all seek heaven, if we want to go to heaven then let’s do the first things first. Jesus said to his disciples they would do as he did and greater works than he.
- Seek his Kingdom – you can’t serve him without the tools. Seek after them and don’t be satisfied until you have them.
- If your eye is going to be single and you’re going to serve the Lord the time to do it is right now. You can’t be thinking about tomorrow. Have to look at what he has for you right now. Your days will look different then they do right now.
- Why would God send you people if you don’t seek him first. You’ve got to know the Word, you’ve got to read the Word. The devil will send you plenty of people.
- Those who are going to enter in are those who do the will of God. How are you going to know the will of God if you don’t seek his Kingdom?
MATTHEW 7
- Notes to follow
MATTHEW 8
- Notes to follow
MATTHEW 9
- In the end of chapter 8 they asked Jesus to leave. Jesus just left, didn’t fight with them, did not try to convince them or anything. He just left.
- The friends of the man sick of the palsy – they had faith and Jesus saw their faith.
- Thy sins be forgiven – Jesus is setting the scribes up.
- Scribe – educated person, a servant to the priests and religious leaders.
- The scribes didn’t say it but Jesus knew their hearts when they thought “this man blasphemeth”.
- They had evil hearts of unbelief – they can’t say thy sins be forgiven or arise and walk. They are judging Jesus by themselves.
- Thy sins be forgiven – easy to say.
- Arise and walk – now you will know whether he had the power to say both.
- The multitude marveled, the scribes were angry – they were jealous – why didn’t God give them this power?
- Son of man – a reference to Jesus as the second Adam.
- The multitude marveled that this power was given unto men, they were correct – Jesus as a man, not as God, had power to forgive sin. You see Jesus gave this power to his apostles. He is teaching them to walk in this place.
- Matthew, like James and John, Andrew and Peter, got up and left his job at Jesus’ call to follow him.
- Pharisees see this, they would never have done this, they would have been defiled by it.
- They didn’t go to Jesus but to his disciples to ask why. Jesus heard and answered.
- No presumption on the part of the publicans and sinners that they were okay. The woman at the well, a like example. Jesus revealed he was the Christ to this woman after she got it.
- The irony of Jesus’ answer is the Pharisees were the sickest.
- You receive mercy when you have repented and want to turn.
- Sacrifice lets you walk away feeling justified and continue in your way.
- John the Baptist’s disciples fasted and they wondered why Jesus’ did not. Jesus’ answer was a cloaked reference to who he was. As long as they had Jesus with them, why would they need to fast to seek him? When he was taken away, at his death, then they would fast.
- The Bride of Christ – New Jerusalem (Revelation 21: 9-10).
- New cloth on old garment – those who try to put the law into the Gospel – the Gospel becomes of no effect, the law becomes of no use also.
- Wine – the Holy Spirit – cannot put into this natural (old) body, but is in the Temple of the Holy Spirit. Romans 7 Paul says in his flesh dwelleth no good thing. The Holy Spirit would be a good thing. Proves our bodies are not the temple of the Holy Spirit. The temple of the Holy Spirit is the Body of Christ.
- Ruler worshipped Jesus – a humble act. He is coming in faith. My daughter is dead but come and lay thy hand on her and she shall live. Jesus was immediately moved by his faith. He moved exactly in accordance with the faith of the man.
- Woman with the issue of blood – I shall be whole – her faith made her whole. Jesus confirmed it when he said thy faith hast made thee whole, not his faith.
- Two blind men – again you have an example of their faith made them whole. Thou Son of David have mercy on us – they acknowledged Jesus is the Messiah. They recognized they were wrong but wanted mercy. Jesus extended mercy to them. If they did not have faith to receive their sight they would not have received their sight even though Jesus had prayed for them.
- Why did Jesus say “according to your faith be it unto you,” why was this different? It goes back to verse 27, they were proclaiming to believe Jesus was the Son of God – now he’s saying then show me.
- To pray for one who says he is a believer then they must believe.
- See that no man know it – know what? That he is the Messiah.
- See the same jealousy in the Pharisees as in the scribes. They couldn’t cast out devils so they said he did it by the prince of the devils. The Pharisees did this with knowledge that it wasn’t true (Nicodemus came by night saying we, he and the other Pharisees in John 3). This is blasphemy.
- Sheep scattered, looking for food which was scarce. This was the ministers’ fault.
- Jesus tells his disciples there are plenty of people out there, pray for the Lord to send ministers to go out into his harvest. Those who will preach the truth.
MATTHEW 10
- Notes to follow
MATTHEW 10
- Jesus sends the twelve out. At this point in time they do not have the Holy Spirit but go with delegated authority from Jesus. Jesus is sending them out to do what he has been showing them. On the job training.
- Jesus was sent to the lost sheep of Israel, Jesus is giving them the same boundaries. In Mark 16 the boundaries are off – Go ye into all the world. Shows Christ’s fidelity to the Father.
- Freely you have received, freely give – we too often limit who we give these things to.
- The disciples are an extension of Jesus’ ministry. An important element of him fulfilling that which his father sent him to do.
- Jesus is sending them out with nothing – they are learning to trust the Lord.
- Discussion on God’s provision to babes vs. the increased requirement of faith.
- The first thing they were to do was find who was worthy – the local ruler of the synagogue. He would have been the watchman called by the people. The disciples were watchmen called of God.
- They were to stay with that ruler while there. If the ruler rejected them that peace would return to them. The blessings God had for the people would be taken. See teaching: Ezekiel 33: 1-6 – The Watchman Part 1 and Ezekiel 33: 7-8 – The Watchman Part 2. http://www.thefishermenministry.net/ezekiel-the-watchman-part1/ http://www.thefishermenministry.net/ezekiel-the-watchman-part2/.
- This had nothing to do with the disciples’ goodness, they were under the authority of Christ.
- Sheep amongst wolves – when you go out people are going to want to kill, hurt & destroy you.
- Wise as serpents, gentle as doves – know when to speak and when to shut up. Need to shut up and listen and see what is going on.
- Brought before governors and kings for God’s sake – it is a testimony against them (i.e. when Paul was brought before Felix, Festus, Agrippa and Bernice in Acts) Jesus was brought before Pilot.
- And the Gentiles – the rulers were Gentiles.
- Not a natural thing to take no thought of what you will speak. Jesus is telling them he wants them to know this is of God. God will be with them and give them the Word to speak.
- Hated by their own family – not a pretty picture. Jesus himself experienced this.
- Endureth – if you are offended that this is part of the walk you are not going to endure.
- Endureth – you have to believe God right up to the end.
- Fleeing – not edifying to pride. People think they’ve won. Jesus is saying don’t worry about it, go to another city.
- You minister – they receive or reject.
- They are not above Jesus. So if they call Jesus Beelzebub, what are they going to call you?
- They were still of the mind that they were going to see Christ’s victory. The idea that this is what their life is going to be like – hated maybe killed – they didn’t get yet.
- That which you fear is your God. If rejection, etc. are things they feared they could not do their job. The only one they were to fear was God. Whether they lived or died they would be victorious. This is the place we have to stand as believers. If Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego had faith but never opened their mouths they would have died. It was their boldness and obedience that saved them.
- There is nothing about God’s children that he does not care about, nothing escapes his attention.
- He who denies – Peter did this but received mercy. Afterwards Peter learned not to fear.
- I came not to send peace but a sword – Jesus is the Word of God, if people reject so great a salvation as that when the sword falls those who are approved shall be manifest and those who are not. If you are approved you cannot let it go to your head. It is where compassion comes from. That sword separates.
- In the end what matters is the blood of Jesus Christ, not that of your natural family. The last thing you want to have is not being worthy of him. Not a matter of righteousness a matter of preference, who you prefer.
- Jesus was saying take that dead body and follow me. If you are not willing to do that you are not worthy of him.
- Once you go to heaven you can be cast out. You have a free will in heaven even as you do here. If you can’t obey him here what makes you think you will obey in heaven?
- You give up your life. You need to determine in your heart and mind that you are going to serve him even if you get nothing here.
- If they receive you it’s because they’ve received Jesus. If they receive Jesus it’s because they received the Father.
- If you receive a prophet as a prophet you receive the full prophet’s reward. An example – Peter was an Apostle – if you received him as an Apostle you can get the baptism of the Holy Spirit which is given by the laying on of the Apostle’s hands.
- Little ones – the disciples. Referring to where they disciples were at this time.
MATTHEW 11
- Notes to follow
MATTHEW 12
- Notes to follow
MATTHEW 13:1-30
- For teaching on the parables in Matthew 13 listen to the 2003 revival services at http://www.thefishermenministry.net/tfmaudio/revivals/
- Parable of the sower and the seed
- It is not the sower’s job to inspect (judge) the ground. The seed he is sowing is the Gospel. Our job is to sow the Gospel.
- Fruit – love, not people. Like an orchard – 1 apple tree has plenty of apples for many to enjoy. When you are that good ground that bringeth forth fruit it continues, there is plenty of it.
- Who hath ears to hear let him hear – an act of your will, do you have the will to hear?
- Why did Jesus speak in parables? Shows the disciples had ears to hear. Others were satisfied to hear and go away thinking they were fruitful i.e. soup kitchens, orphanages, etc. not being done in the love of God but the love of self (pride).
- Mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven were not given to them. It is a second witness to Ephesians 3 where it is written the mysteries are given to the Apostles and prophets who then give it to the people. We receive it from them. Luke is an example, he clave to Paul. Because of this he received the mysteries and you see the fruit of that because he was able to write the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts, most of which he was not even a witness to.
- Whosever hath more shall be given, whosever hath not that which he has will be taken away. Talking about the seed of God and the seed of perdition. It will be taken away from the seed of perdition i.e. Judas.
- The people’s hearts were waxed gross, do not hear, do not see what is going on. Why? Pride.
- Blessed – referring to the elect seed.
- Word ministered but they don’t get it. When a person sets their heart to know the truth they get God’s attention and he opens their eyes.
- If a person doesn’t want the truth the Holy Spirit cannot come.
- Stony ground – tribulation or persecution arises – offended at what God’s minister says to them; may be losing something i.e. a boyfriend, girlfriend, etc.; offended at rejection by others; offended by the Word.
- Thorns – hear the word but the care of this world (fears, worries and mental anguish) cause you to get off course, choke the Word, become unfruitful. Shows they had begun fruitful. This is what holds most people back. Simple thing to do is when people say take care say no thank you. If they ask you why tell them the parable. A lot of people won’t do this because they think people will think they are stupid.
- Good ground – person who has died to themselves, gotten rid of the pride. Pride blinds you to the understanding. Get rid of the pride and you will understand God’s ways and you can walk in His ways.
- Make yourself accountable – you humble yourself, want feedback so you can learn and do better. Discipleship is the Lord’s way for this to be done.
- Parable of the wheat and tares
- Field – Adam’s seed (great majority of people are the seed of Adam, not a wheat or tare).
- Wheat – predestinated, elect seed of God sown into the field (wheat points heavenward to show the seed of Adam the truth).
- Tares – seed of perdition (the seed of perdition is there to show the judgment of God).
- Tares and wheat look the same until they bear fruit – wheat is golden and points heavenward.
- Tares are black and point toward the earth.
- The angels are the apostles who God sends out. They are going to separate the wheat from the tares.
MATTHEW 13:31-58
- 2003 Revivals on the Parables of Matthew 13 available to listen to at: http://www.thefishermenministry.net/tfmaudio/revivals/winchester-revivals-2003/
- First parable: His field – the earth (The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof). Seed sown into the earth – Jesus (the least of all seeds – listen to http://www.thefishermenministry.net/tuesday-05192015/ study of Matthew 11. Verse 11 is explained). Birds – believers that dwell in him.
- Second parable: Meal – believers. Leaven – Jesus Christ – you want that leaven to be put into meal that will work and allow it to grow and expand until you see the effect of that leaven. Warmth causes leaven to grow – need to be in place where fellowship is that type of environ where the leaven can work.
- To the multitude – speaks to them in parables. Unto the disciples – plainly speaks. You see his line of authority established (reference Ephesians 3).
- Apostle Paul received the Gospel by revelation from Jesus Christ himself.
- Woe unto those cities where he had done many works. They got what they wanted but did not want to hear what he had to say (see Matthew 11: 21-24).
- What made these people not want to hear? The children of Israel at this time, like many Christians today, are all about themselves, they see themselves as the jewel in God’s crown. Everything God did was for them because they were so special. To hear the true Word, if they heard, they would realize they weren’t worthy. Jesus came in a way they did not want. He did not come to justify them.
- He could not do the work he had to do if by some miracle they heard him and received him as the Messiah and he was not crucified. If they had we would be lost. When God’s plan for the Gentiles is finished, the Jews’ eyes will be opened and they will believe. He needed to speak in parables.
- Many Jews were saved after his resurrection (see Acts 2).
- Jesus spoke things that had been hidden from the foundation of the world.
- The New Testament clearly teaches there are three seeds: Seed of God, Seed of Perdition, Seed of Adam. Many churches believe there are only two seeds, those destined to salvation and those destined to hell (i.e. Calvanists, many Baptists). Others say no one is predestinated (i.e. Methodists, Free Baptists).
- Seed of Adam is the one with free choice. John 3: 16 – world is the seed of Adam, they are without excuse, they should not perish.
- Examples of seed of God and seed of Perdition: Moses (of God) & Pharoah (of Satan); Jacob (of God) & Esau (of Satan). (see Jude verse 4 – For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation).
- Interesting – we have a book which contains 66 letters written by one author using 40 secretaries taking down dictation. 40 people over 2,000 years writing on the same subject – God. Not a single contradiction. What are the odds?
- Disciples came and asked, “Ask and it shall be given you” Matthew 7: 7. They wanted to know.
- Tares and Wheat – the sower is Jesus. The world is mankind – Adam was made of the dust of the earth, he is the field Jesus is speaking of here.
- Good seed are the preordained seed of God.
- Children of the wicked one are the preordained seed of Satan.
- Both are sown into the seed of Adam. You cannot distinguish between them because they are all the seed of Adam.
- Nothing Satan has ever made or said that is right. He has created nothing but takes that which God created and perverts it.
- Esau & Jacob – how could God arbitrarily take two children who haven’t had a chance to do anything and love one and hate the other? The key is he knew what they had already done. He did not know what they would do (see Jeremiah 19: 1-6 & 32: 35).
- The church misses there was a first earth ruled by Satan. Those who followed Satan (fallen angels, people) were not killed because death had not been created. God saved those who followed him to be brought in to serve him on this earth and then die. It is appointed unto men once to die. Not the same as reincarnation which is to die and live, die and live.
- First earth had two camps, those who rebelled, the seed of Satan, and those who did not, the seed of God.
- John 17: 16 – “they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world,” prayer for his disciples, the predestinated.
- Enoch and Elijah – neither one saw death. Because the scripture says it is appointed unto man once to die they will come back as the two prophets in Revelation. They will die and then be resurrected.
- God rejects those who reject God’s seed.
- This world – an age. We saw it take place and the end of the age of the Jews. We will see it again at the end of the age of the Gentiles (II Timothy 3: 1-2 – in the last days men will be lovers of their own selves. Paul speaking to the Gentiles about the end of the age of the Gentiles. You are going to see this come to pass.)
- Third parable: Treasure – seed of God hid in a field – World. Man who buys it – God with the blood of his son Jesus. You see the treasure hid i.e. Moses being hid in Pharoah’s house, Jesus being hid in Egypt.
- Fourth parable: Merchant man – us; one pearl of great price – Jesus. Sell all, what do you have that is of greater value than him?
MATTHEW 14
- Notes to follow
MATTHEW 15
- Notes to follow
MATTHEW 16
- Notes to follow
MATTHEW 17
- God is God and we are not, even if we are an Apostle.
- Jesus was transfigured to a glorified state, the cloud is another veil.
- This was another fulfillment of prophecy.
- Not every spiritual experience is of God.
- Go in demonstration of the spirit of power.
- Unbelief stops healing.
- Fasting and prayer strengthens faith.
- We are works in progress so must stand humble prepared for service.
- There are blessings for tithes and alms and curses if they are not given.
- Jesus believed the Father’s his provision.
- Teach tithes and offerings.
- The Lord supplies everything you need.
MATTHEW 18
- Converted means a distinct change in direction, acknowledging the way you were going is wrong, humbling yourself and becoming a sponge like a child. Being converted requires being hungry and desiring of all the things of the kingdom of God.
- Converts are excited and want to share it and people squelch them.
- Don’t be hung up on knowledge if you’ve received the Gospel and become converted you know the gospel and can share the Gospel with people, not mixed with other stuff.
- The individual is accountable for offending others.
- Offenses are necessary, they try the heart of the person, you do not know dark except there is light or evil except you know good.
- People get offended when grace is given to others who they see as not worthy of it. Grace is not earned.
- Literally the type and shadow of the church, as the body of Christ, is if one member is turning others away it is better to get rid of that member than the whole body be destroyed.
- People who have become as a child. People like Paul the Apostle (who did not consult with flesh and blood), are so important that God has specific angels to watch over them and report on what is going on to Him. Many others are mentioned in the Word (eg Daniel, Elisha, Elijah, Peter, Paul). Angels are not over every person who claims Christ, there are not guardian angels over everyone or children would not be hurt or violated.
- Forgiving from your heart means you don’t hold onto it. Can you imagine how many times God has forgiven you? The 99 sheep were left attended to by under-shepherds or sheepdog, while the one is “lost” often due to offenses and the Lord will show them how to turn back, not you. God does not need any of us, we need Him.
- Confront people who are going wrong (it is not natural that’s why we are told to do it). There are good reasons for telling them, not others, and before going to others or the church. It’s not about you it’s about you and him getting straight and loving the truth not to justify self. If he does not accept what you share then use 2 or 3 witnesses, then church say, don’t try to explain it to him, just let him be and let the Lord work with him.
- Binding on earth is not to every believer but His apostles, in the line of authority.
- The Lord is not there every time two who claim to be believers are together, but only if they have been converted.
- How many times have you needed Christ to forgive you, and of the same thing too? Don’t withhold forgiveness of your brother.
- If you forgive others from your heart you are free, if you don’t they are free and you are in bondage. Without His forgiveness there would be no salvation.
- You are encouraged to harbor no ill will, but forgive. Do it now and do not let it fester and destroy you, if you need to talk to them then do it.
MATTHEW 19
- Pride (self-righteousness) stops the fear of God.
- Divorce was not established by Moses but for the hardness of their hearts.
- You turn to the law to justify yourself.
- The rainbow is not only a promise but also a warning.
- Jesus did not accept the description of Him as being good, but showed it was His heavenly Father who did these things and His Father is the only good one.
- The eye of a needle is exactly that, not a gate to the city, or the disciples would not be ”exceedingly amazed”.
- Forsaking all and following Jesus costs everything and everyone and you receive a new family into which you are adopted.
- Those who the world lifts up and esteems vs those who God does.
MATTHEW 20
- The Gospel and grace of Jesus Christ is not deserved by anyone.
- If you come at the beginning or the end you get the same thing, eternal life, be grateful for it. Don’t be offended at the Lord’s goodness to others.
- Jesus always operated in the scope of His authority and in subjection to the Father.
- Faithful service of the Lord is rewarded in different ways (as in Revelation) but this is our proving ground for heaven where there is no grace.
- The blind men recognized Jesus as the Son of God and that they were not worthy and were undeserving but ask for mercy.
- Jesus served those who everyone else ignores.
- Jesus asks what the blind men would have Him do for them, and He gives it to them.
- As a servant unto the Lord, you respect or honor everyone and see them as greater than you.
- To serve is love, and love is a joy. It comes from the Lord for your service. Don’t look to people for your joy, it comes from the Lord only.
- Choose to die to your old nature to be able to take on Christ’s nature.
- All that matters is to trust and serve the Lord and Him being pleased with you.
MATTHEW 21
- As the end of Jesus’ ministry draws closer He tells His disciples what will happen and fulfills the prophecy (in Zech 9:9) of the colt and ass.
- Matthew lays out Jesus as the Lion of Judah in His Kingly role.
- Jesus gives an instruction without explanation, the disciples obeyed immediately and it happened precisely as He had said.
- If churches taught about tithing and obedience to God’s Word, then fundraising would not be necessary.
- Jesus is never on the defensive.
- “IF” is very important here: “faith” and “doubt not” are two conditions to the “if” statement, if they are met then what you say will come to pass.
- Unbelief (the carnal mind) must be put off and given no place in our life.
- When Jesus says a “but” it is worth looking at.
MATTHEW 22
- Jesus says to give the things of God to God. He did not justify man in not rendering to Caesar.
- The power of God is the answer to every situation man finds himself in. Nothing is too big for him.
- Have faith in the power of God not in man.
- They did not acknowledge Jesus as Master although they sounded as if they did.
- There are NO RULES in the Bible except to be an example for or against something, showing we are saved by grace .
- The body is sin and we get out of it only by death.
- The cross is God’s symbol of death for sinners.
- Folks know they’re going to hell and need the hand of Jesus to show they don’t have to be there.
- They could have all the knowledge in the Word but without the Spirit of God they could not understand it. They don’t accept it because it did not agree with what they wanted and in some places in the world today the only choice you do have is what you’re going to believe.
- There is no place or circumstance you can find yourself in that the power of God is not sufficient for you.
MATTHEW 23
- The people of Jerusalem did not see themselves as needing a savior but were waiting for the savior to come and justify them.
- Jesus tells the people that they must observe and do what the Scribes and Pharisees tell them to do because of their position, but not to do their works because the Scribes and Pharisees do not as they should.
- If your eyes are on man you will believe you are justified against others. Lift your sights on the Lord then there’s no justification for you except in Him.
- Jesus came to serve others and still does by interceding for us.
- Knowledge of God is not a learned profession available only to a select few. The individual is responsible for reading the Word.
- Mercy is needed when you’ve acknowledge you’ve done something wrong and want to turn from it.
- If anyone wants to know the truth, God will show it to them.
- People say what is in their hearts.
- We all have a free will to choose.
MATTHEW 24:1-29
- The wealthy and religious always use religion to control others, but the Gospel sets people free.
- Satan does not quote the Word as it is written, but corrupts it in subtle ways.
- You may say Jesus is the Christ but if your doctrine is not right you turn faith to other things, for example religion.
- False prophets deceive most people.
- Iniquity is pride from which all sin comes.
- Everything is held together by the grace of God.
- Verses 15-22 talks about Rome destroying the temple not about the catching away.
- The anti-Christ uses important people and their position to get rid of true Christians.
- Do you get what you deserve?
MATTHEW 24:29-51
- At the time of Jesus’ death it was dark at midday. Jesus is talking to the disciples about what will happen in their lifetime. When Christ was raised the crowds waiting in Abraham’s bosom were raised with Him as a witness to many.
- Parable of the fig tree explained.
- Israel was never symbolized as a fig tree but rather as an Olive tree.
- The entire Bible shows God working with man through the ages. He is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow, He never changes so His word is never changing!
- God’s judgement fell on all people when they did not expect it. Examples are in Noah’s time and the Jews spoken to here (likewise when Jesus comes again people will be surprised).
- The Romans killed one and left the other like the catching away in v 40, it says nothing about their being righteous or not, it will be arbitrary.
- Read Ezekiel chapter 33 on the website for a prophecy about watchmen who warn people of His sword coming on the land.
- Ezekiel – The Watchman Part 1
- Ezekiel – The Watchman Part 2
- There must be a remnant remaining to be reconciled with God. The 144,000 virgin Jewish men will be caught up during the tribulation to be grafted back.
- Watch! If you are complacent you will have to pass through the tribulation. People become lax because of the delay in the prophecies coming to pass and they will go through the weeping and gnashing of teeth, being cut off from God forever.
- Jesus speaks to the Jews of events in their lives, there is an echo of the same things that will happen at the end of the Gentile Church Age and the end of the Tribulation prior to Jesus’ return but they are two different times.
- The Bible is clear on Armageddon and the catching away. It deals with God’s plan of salvation. What is important to know, believe and understand is clearly made known throughout the Word and we need to take heed to it, bearing in mind that Paul and John the Revelator detail those things for our time.
- It is a great device of Satan’s to confuse people so they can’t see plainly what is being said but allow the antichrist to rise up and the church to embrace him rather than Christ.
- Listen before next week to Sunday 25 October service where Matthew 25 is touched on. (Sunday TX service 10/25/2015)
MATTHEW 25
- Parable of the five wise virgins and five foolish virgins explained, and some common errors corrected.
- We need to replenish the oil we receive from the Holy Ghost and do it through praise, prayer and all acts of faith depending only on the Holy Spirit.
- Once saved always saved is like the foolish virgins.
- Three baptisms – blood, water and spirit.
- The Kingdom of God is not the same as the Kingdom of Heaven.
- The Kingdom of Heaven is the planet where God lives, his throne is there also and New Jerusalem is there right now.
- The Kingdom of God is that spiritual realm that is here right now. To do works of Christ one has to be in the Kingdom of God.
- It takes courage to tell others to go and trust what they have always trusted and not worry what they will think.
- They weren’t working out their own salvation with fear and trembling but trying to ride the coat tails of others not taking responsibility for their own slackness.
- Parable of the ten talents explained.
- The foolish crowd replace what God would have for them with works self-righteousness.
- Seek the Lord because He wants you to have these good things but He can’t give them to you if you don’t believe Him. You need to want what He has for you.
- Do your good works to the least of His people, the believers. In the body there will be no lack.
- People needing attention all the time lead ministers to pride.
MATTHEW 26:1-56
- Notes to follow
MATTHEW 26:57-75
- Notes to follow
MATTHEW 27:1-32
- Notes to follow
MATTHEW 27:33-66
- The vinegar was made from grapes. So as not to lie, having said that He would not drink of the vine again after the Passover, Jesus refused the vinegar. Gall is a painkiller.
- Even today people behave from a high and lofty position towards a fallen person (even if they had been esteemed before).
- Jesus never took the bait to prove himself.
- Jesus being hanged on a tree meant He was cursed and thus separated from His Father for the first time.
- Praying to the saints is a vain practice.
- Jesus was not killed, He gave up His life.
- Listen to the teaching on The Mystery of The Veil (South Carolina service on 06/14/2015 and Thursday 06/18/2015)
- Women traveled with Jesus and tended to Him by giving Him food, clothes and shelter.
- The Gospel shows that any person is in reach of salvation.
- Joseph of Arimathea rolled the stone in place, but the High Priests and Pharisees went and sealed it so they would be witnesses to the resurrection.
MATTHEW 28
- Notes to follow