In yesterday’s passage, Jesus called out to two fishermen—Peter and Andrew and they followed him. In today’s passage, Jesus calls to two more brothers—James and John. They also leave and follow Jesus.
Steve Kuzner
Bear Fruit [Matthew 3:7-10]
Pharisees were Jewish laymen that followed many extrabiblical traditions. The Sadducees were a priestly group that received authority form work in the temple. Both groups coming to John for Baptism is an interesting picture. The Pharisees tried to save themselves. And, the Sadducees felt they were saved because of their position. But neither saves. John gives them a major warning—repent and don't rely on their blood-line from Abraham for salvation.
Steve
Let Your Face Shine [Psalm 80:17-19]
![Let Your Face Shine [Psalm 80:17-19]](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bb3ae513560c3247f88f3ba/1574650394725-05PJEHOASXDX5Y8T8LV2/whenGodCameDown01.nowords%400.25x.png)
Through a refrain, this Psalm asks God to “restore us" and " let your face shine that we may be saved.” Verses 14–15 serve as a longer version of the refrain, explaining it more fully. “The man of your right hand and the son of man” likely refers to the people of Israel. The Psalm illustrates Israel’s longing for God’s presence in a fallen world. We can’t save ourselves. Neither could Israel. Part of Advent is hope. Every Christmas, we celebrate when our Hope came down and took-on flesh. Jesus is our Hope!
Steve
God's Glory Displayed [Psalm 72:18-19]
Your Life Together in the Kingdom of Christ [ Hebrews 13:7-14 ]
Chapter 13 concludes the letter. Verses 1—14 are about the changelessness of Christ, verses 15-19 are about God-pleasing sacrifices, and verses 20—25 include a benediction. In todays section (v7—14), the Hebrews are instructed to love their church leaders (v7)—in fact, they are encouraged to “remember them” (v7) and to “imitate their faith” (v7). And, they are instructed to love Christ (v8—14)…
Steve