Daily Reading Week 11
Sunday
Mark 5
DISCOVER
How does Jesus' authority over demonic powers, as seen in the healing of the demon-possessed man, affect your understanding of His power?
What does the healing of the woman with the issue of blood reveal about Jesus' attitude towards social outcasts?
In the sermon this week we talked about trusting in the reality that Jesus is for you. What ways in your life personally have you seen this truth?
This week our pastors challenged us to come to Jesus anyway and in every way. Are there any specific areas that you are struggling with as it relates to this challenge?
RESPOND
The last story included in Mark 4 combines with all of chapter 5 to reveal that Jesus is even more powerful than the twelve apostles imagined. They reached the other side of the Sea of Galilee, after Jesus displayed His authority over a fierce storm which threatened to capsize the boat. The twelve are so amazed they ask, "Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?" (Mark 4:41). In Mark 5, they will learn more about His power as He performs familiar miracles with an even greater scope.
Chapter 5 invites us to encounter the powerful, compassionate, and transformative Jesus, who breaks chains, restores health, and revives life. No situation is beyond His reach, no individual beyond His care. This chapter encourages us to approach Jesus in faith, like the woman who sought healing, and trust in His power, as Jairus did for his daughter. The story of the freed demoniac reminds us that Jesus can turn even the darkest situations into testimonies of His grace and power.
Mark 5 powerfully reveals the authority and compassion of Jesus through dramatic healing and restoration narratives. From freeing a demon-possessed man, to healing a woman ostracized due to her sickness, to bringing a dead girl back to life, Jesus' miraculous acts display His divine power and love, affirming His transformative role in the lives of individuals and communities.
Monday
Matthew 8
DISCOVER
What does Jesus' willingness to touch and heal the leper say about His view of those considered unclean or outcasts in society?
Considering verse 13, how does your faith compare with that of the centurion? What can we all learn from the centurion’s example?
According to verse 23, the disciples dropped everything to follow Jesus. Even on a boat without knowing the destination. What is the “one” thing keeping you from following Jesus?
We all have moments we have been filled with fear. Yet, Jesus can calm any storm with just a simple command. How does this bring you comfort?
RESPOND
After completing his report on Jesus' teaching in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:1–2), Matthew turns to demonstrating Jesus' authority over disease, demons, and even the weather. Instead of telling the story of Jesus' ministry in strict chronological order, Matthew groups Jesus' miracles into a series of stories, beginning with this chapter. This emphasis on miracles runs through chapter 11.
Matthew 8 reveals Jesus as the authoritative figure with power over physical and spiritual realms. It also underscores the potent role of faith in activating miracles. While demonstrating His power, Jesus also reminds us of the cost and commitment necessary for discipleship.
Jesus’ miracles are marvels and wonders, not just in their physical dimension in regard to the laws of nature, but in the spiritual realities they signify. Anyone who launches out into that little boat with Jesus in the Christian life, no matter how spiritually dirty, doubting, or dead will find himself again and again face-to-face with the occurrence of the impossible, and will learn again like a little child what it means to marvel. And the marvel will not remain around him like a multitude of fireflies in a field at dusk, for he will become a marvel to himself.
Tuesday
Matthew 9
DISCOVER
What are the key miracles recorded in Matthew 9, and what do they reveal about Jesus' identity?
How do the Pharisees respond to Jesus' actions in Matthew 9, and what does it teach us about their perception of Him?
What role does faith play in the healing accounts found in Matthew 9?
How does Jesus demonstrate His authority over sin and forgiveness in Matthew 9:1-8?
What is the significance of Jesus' call to His disciples in Matthew 9:37-38?
RESPOND
The chapter opens with Jesus healing a paralytic, not only restoring his physical health but also forgiving his sins. This act of divine authority challenges the religious leaders' understanding of Jesus' identity, prompting them to accuse Him of blasphemy. Yet, Jesus affirms His authority to forgive sins, revealing His divine prerogative as the Son of God.
Throughout Matthew 9, faith emerges as a recurring theme. The faith of the paralytic's friends compels Jesus to heal him. The faith of the woman with the issue of blood drives her to touch the hem of His garment, resulting in her miraculous healing. Even the faith of two blind men leads to their sight being restored. These accounts underscore the transformative power of faith and its capacity to unlock God's miraculous intervention in our lives.
Wednesday
Matthew 10
DISCOVER
What is the significance of Jesus sending out the twelve disciples in Matthew 10?
How does Jesus prepare the disciples for their mission in Matthew 10?
What instructions does Jesus give to the disciples regarding their conduct and message in Matthew 10?
How does Jesus address the potential opposition and persecution the disciples may face in Matthew 10?
What lessons can modern-day disciples draw from Jesus' instructions to the twelve in Matthew 10?
RESPOND
Jesus equips the disciples with both power and purpose, urging them to prioritize the lost sheep of Israel and to proclaim the nearness of the kingdom. He prepares them for the challenges ahead, warning of opposition and persecution they may encounter. Yet, He assures them of His presence and provision in every circumstance.
For modern-day disciples, Jesus' instructions in Matthew 10 carry profound significance. We are called to embrace our identity as ambassadors of Christ, empowered by His Spirit to share the gospel and demonstrate His kingdom through acts of love and compassion. We're reminded of the cost of discipleship, yet encouraged by the promise of God's faithful provision.
Thursday
Matthew 11
DISCOVER
What is the central theme of Jesus' message in Matthew 11?
How does Jesus respond to John the Baptist's inquiry in Matthew 11:2-6?
What does Jesus' assessment of John the Baptist reveal about his significance?
How does Jesus invite weary souls to find rest in Matthew 11:28-30?
What is the contrast between the response of the religious leaders and the response of those who accept Jesus' message in Matthew 11?
RESPOND
Matthew 11 unveils Jesus's compassionate invitation to those weary and burdened, promising rest for their souls. Through His response to John the Baptist's inquiry, Jesus affirms His Messianic identity and highlights the radical nature of God's kingdom, where humility and faith hold paramount importance. He extends a tender invitation, assuring that His yoke is easy and His burden light, offering spiritual and emotional rest amidst life's turmoil.
However, Jesus contrasts the receptive hearts of those who accept His message with the closed-mindedness of the religious leaders who reject both His and John's calls. Their refusal underscores the hardness of heart that blinds them to divine truth. In response, Matthew 11 challenges us to embrace Jesus's invitation with humility and openness, laying down our burdens and receiving His transformative grace. May we respond to His call with open hearts, finding solace and restoration in His unending love and grace.
Friday
Matthew 12
DISCOVER
What controversies arise in Matthew 12, and how does Jesus respond to them?
What does Jesus teach about the Sabbath in Matthew 12:1-14, and why is it significant?
How does Jesus' confrontation with the Pharisees reveal their hardened hearts in Matthew 12:22-37?
What is the significance of Jesus' response to His family in Matthew 12:46-50?
What lessons can we draw from Jesus' teachings and interactions in Matthew 12?
RESPOND
In Matthew 12, Jesus navigates contentious situations, revealing profound truths about His identity and mission. His response to Sabbath controversies challenges legalistic interpretations, emphasizing mercy and compassion over rigid observance. Jesus confronts the Pharisees' spiritual blindness, exposing their refusal to acknowledge His divine authority despite witnessing miracles and hearing profound teachings.
Moreover, Jesus redefines familial relationships, prioritizing obedience to God's will above earthly ties. This chapter invites us to examine our attitudes and align our hearts with God's kingdom principles. Are we bound by legalism and spiritual blindness like the Pharisees, or do we embrace Jesus' mercy and grace?
Saturday
Matthew 13-14
DISCOVER
What parables does Jesus share in Matthew 13, and what do they reveal about the kingdom of God?
How does Jesus explain the purpose of parables in Matthew 13:10-17?
What is the significance of Jesus feeding the five thousand in Matthew 14:13-21?
How does Peter's attempt to walk on water reflect faith and doubt in Matthew 14:22-33?
What lessons can we glean from Jesus' teachings and miracles in Matthew 13-14?
RESPOND
Understanding the teachings and miracles recorded in Matthew 13-14 matters because they offer profound insights into the nature of God's kingdom and the dynamics of faith. These passages provide valuable lessons that can deeply impact our spiritual lives and relationships with God:
Receptivity to God's Word: The parables in Matthew 13 challenge us to examine our receptivity to God's teachings. They highlight the importance of having open hearts and minds to understand spiritual truths and participate in God's kingdom work.
Trust in God's Provision: The miraculous feeding of the five thousand in Matthew 14 demonstrates God's abundant provision and care for His people. It encourages us to trust in God's faithfulness, even when circumstances seem dire, knowing that He can multiply our resources and meet our needs.
Faith and Doubt: Peter's attempt to walk on water illustrates the interplay between faith and doubt in the Christian journey. His experience reminds us of the importance of keeping our focus on Jesus amidst life's storms, trusting in His power to sustain us even in the midst of uncertainty and adversity.