The Power of the King (preaching resource for June 7 and 14, 2026)
The post exegetes Matthew 8:1-9:34, providing context for the Gospel readings on June 7 and June 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 the 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...