Like I mentioned in a previous post, I said I was going to take the challenge from our pastor to read through the Gospels. I don’t know if it was a formal challenge, but it sounded like a good idea… I’ve heard most of these stories in some form or another my whole life (remember those felt boards with the paper Bible characters??) and I feel like I need a fresh and more objective perspective.
So… starting with Matthew (and I’m primarily reading from the New American Standard Bible), I’m just going to put down the chapter and verse and an observation. Posting this on my blog also makes me be accountable for actually, ya know, reading the Bible. I want to live like Jesus really wants us to, not by some contrived doctrine, customs, or rules that were made up by men (not saying all traditions/expectations are wrong.. just wanting to get to the source). Maybe I’ll add some commentary later. For now, I just want to ponder.
Feel free to discuss!
Matthew
1:18 Joseph was obedient and took Mary as his wife even though she was already found to be with child.
3:8 John the Baptist spoke to the Pharisees and Sadducees, “Therefore bring forth fruit in keeping with repentance.” In verse 10, he goes on to say, “And the axe is already laid at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.”
3:11 John baptized with water for repentance, but Jesus baptizes with Holy Spirit and fire.
4:7 In temptation, the devil even knew Scripture, but Jesus knew more.
4:10 The devil left Him when He rebuked Him with Scripture.
4:13 Jesus did not begin preaching in His hometown (He left Nazareth and settled in Capernaum).
4:18 He called ordinary but obedient people to be His disciples.
4:23 He preached the Gospel and healed every disease and sickness.
mercies per mile 