The Surprising God

This post exegetes Matthew 21:28-22:14), providing context for the Gospel reading on 10/11/26. Insights are drawn from commentary from "Kingdom, Grace, Judgment"  by Robert Capon; "New Bible Commentary" by RT France; and "Bible Knowledge Commentary" by Louis Barbieri. "The Wedding Feast" (author unknown) Introduction In Matthew 21:1-7, Jesus has been showing who God's people are not (they are not the Jewish religious authorities). But that leaves us asking, who are God's true people? In Matthew 21:28-22:14, Jesus answers with three parables. Each one speaks of one group of people who are losing their privileged position and being replaced by those whom they despise. The point is that a fundamental change in the identity of the true people of God is taking place. Parable 1: The two sons  Matthew 21:28-32 28 "What do you think? There was a man who had two sons. He went to the first and said, 'Son, go and work today in the vineyard...

This post exegetes Philippians 3:1-16, providing context for the Epistle reading on 10/4/26. Insights are drawn from commentary by Warren Wiersbe ("Bible Expository Commentary") and Francis Foulkes ("New Bible Commentary"). "Lost and Found" by Greg Olsen (used with artist's permission) Introduction  As we enter Philippians chapter 3, we find Paul starting a new section of his letter with a promise and exhortation: “ All joy be yours in your union with the Lord .” (Phil 3:1 TCNT).  Believers have great joy because they know Jesus—they know of and participate in the union that all humanity has with Jesus. Sadly, some Philippian believers were undervaluing that union—failing to understand that their true citizenship is in heaven (Phil 3:20).  As a Roman colony, Philippi was a sort of “Rome away from Rome.” Its citizens, though living in Philippi, rightfully saw themselves as citizens of Rome. In similar fashion, though we are earth-bound, Jesus includes u...