At Issue is The Word of God

Scripture: Then, surrounded by the Pharisees, he asked them a question: "What about the Messiah? Whose son is he?" "The son of David," they replied. "Then why does David, speaking under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, call him ‘Lord’?" Jesus asked. Matthew 22:41-43

Observation: In an attempt to find fault in Jesus and stump him, three different groups have challenged him. The politically active Herodians posed a governmental question, and Jesus responded with a politically accurate answer. The religious Sadducees posed a spiritual question, and Jesus responded with a heavenly answer. The legalistic Pharisees asked a lawful question, and Jesus responded with a clear and concise legal answer. In every case, Jesus harkens back to the scriptures ... referencing the nature of sacrifice, the very name of the Lord, and precise laws from Deuteronomy. And in every case, the questioners are silenced because the answers are perfect.

Then it is Jesus' turn, and as Messiah he asks them a Messianic question. When they respond, Jesus again turns to scripture and points out that they are utterly wrong.

In all of this, the true issue is the accuracy, authority, and application of the word of God. Jesus points out that the word of God is capable of answering every question. The wisdom found in scripture informs the Jews about diverse subjects ranging from government authority, to eternal destiny, to proper daily living, to the very nature of promised salvation. The "experts" confronting him have limited their understanding to very specific clauses that advance their purposes, and thus have lost contact with the nature of God ... wisdom, hope, love, and promise being among them.

Application: As I have read the bible more, I have found value not in memorizing passages, but in experiencing themes that arise again and again. God engaged with mankind - which extends to myself - in order to have a relationship and advise us on the best way to live. The law gave us guidance. Memorization and compliance is the trap of the old law, relieved only by the promise of salvation through faith in Jesus.

I love finding those themes of hope and love and promise in diverse parts of scripture ... today alone these all came up in Psalms AND Job AND Matthew.

"Knowing" the word of God is about leaning into the word as if it's God personal message. Concepts are there to be received and pondered. The word is to permeate our very nature to the point that it affects our words, thoughts, attitudes, behaviors, and destiny. "Learning" just the words themselves doesn't do that.

I can apply God's word to my life and thus live in a manner that honors him, or I can apply God's word to my existing thoughts and justify my worldly biases. I choose to honor the Lord.

Prayer: Lord, I sincerely want to be influenced by your word in ever aspect of my life, and not to use your word to simply prove some issue or declare myself 'right' in some matter. I can see your heart in everything you say. Amen.