The Surprising God

The post exegetes Matthew 9:35 — 11:1, providing context for Gospel readings on June 21 and 28, 2026. Insights are drawn from Craig Keener ("IVP Bible Background Commentary New Testament"), TR France ("New Bible Commentary") and Louis Barbieri ("Bible Knowledge Commentary"). "Christ with His Disciples" by Mironov (public domain via Wikimedia Commons) Introduction In the preceding section, Matthew tells us of Jesus’ kingdom power (and authority). Now he shows that Jesus’ followers are called to join their Lord in his kingdom mission. There is a price to be paid to do so, but the reward is great. 1. Join with Jesus  Matthew 9:35-38 35 Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. 36 When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. 37 Then he said to his disciples, ...

The post exegetes Matthew 8:1 — 9:34, providing context for Gospel readings on June 7 and 14, 2026 . Insights are drawn from Craig Keener ("IVP Bible Background Commentary New Testament"), TR France ("New Bible Commentary") and Louis Barbieri ("Bible Knowledge Commentary"). "Christ Healing the Blind" by Colombel (public domain via Wikimedia Commons) Introduction In words and acts, Jesus demonstrates his power (and authority) as Messiah, the promised King of Israel. In the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) a large audience heard Jesus’ words of power. Yet many doubted, wondering: “Is Jesus really the Messiah? Can he really bring about the changes necessary to institute the kingdom?” Matthew now replies with accounts of Jesus’ miraculous acts of power. These demonstrate Jesus’ kingly authority over multiple realms where humanity is enslaved. Jesus alone has the authority and power to set humankind free! And we experience this God-given freedom as ...