Saturday 26 February 2022
- Bible Book:
- Matthew
The crowds were astounded at his teaching, for he taught them as one having authority. (vs 28–29)
Background
Today sees the end of the ‘Word in Time’ journey through the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus’ teaching about living a kingdom-focused life challenges us constantly to live meaningful lives which have integrity.
The first hearers would have been reeling with images of everyday life and teachings from the Law punctuated with added meaning from the perspective of Jesus. Early in the Sermon Jesus said, "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” (Matthew 5: 17ff). Statement by statement, Jesus shows just how the law should be fulfilled in order to bring about the kingdom on earth as it is in heaven.
We have no idea what happened to the crowd who first heard these words afterwards, but we can surmise that they went away at least thinking that things could be changed for the better and possibly desiring to make a difference.
How is it that I come to this conclusion? It is based on Matthew’s observation that, "the crowds were astounded at his teaching, for he taught them as one having authority." (vs 28-29)
When we hear those who teach with authority, conviction and passion we are challenged to consider how our own thoughts and actions affect others and to change our ways accordingly. As Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the House of Commons, said a few days ago, "Our words have consequences." And so do our actions. Let us all be careful, therefore, that what we do reflects what we say and think.
To Ponder:
- How do my words and actions affect others?
- Who do I look to as a good example of authority?
- What do I need to do to be a good example to those around me?
Listen
Prayer
God of power and grace, thank you for the words of Jesus. May his words of authority inform my living, speaking and doing, so that your kingdom may be glimpsed even in me. Amen.