Matthew 12

Matthew 12:1

Playing the Flute and Singing a Dirge

The Lord compares the unbelieving generation with petulant children who cannot be persuaded to respond to what they hear. Neither the attractiveness of grace, come in Christ with His pleasant-sounding notes, nor the threat of righteousness, come in John with his dirge, has any influence on them. The cause of their passivity lies in their false judgment both about John and about Him.

John is demon-possessed according to them, he has a demon. They come to this statement because of his austere way of life, which by the way fits perfectly with the message that he brought. Their judgment of the Lord Jesus, Who as the Son of Man does not fast but simply eats and drinks, is just as foolish. They blaspheme Him by saying that He is a gluttonous man and a drunkard. They do this because they are full of gluttony and alcoholism themselves. But they are right in saying that He is a friend of tax collectors and sinners.

In all the works which He does, His perfect wisdom is manifested. His wisdom is justified in His dealings with tax collectors and sinners. That wisdom is justified means that wisdom is vindicated by the way wisdom is used and in what it does.

Matthew 12:2

Playing the Flute and Singing a Dirge

The Lord compares the unbelieving generation with petulant children who cannot be persuaded to respond to what they hear. Neither the attractiveness of grace, come in Christ with His pleasant-sounding notes, nor the threat of righteousness, come in John with his dirge, has any influence on them. The cause of their passivity lies in their false judgment both about John and about Him.

John is demon-possessed according to them, he has a demon. They come to this statement because of his austere way of life, which by the way fits perfectly with the message that he brought. Their judgment of the Lord Jesus, Who as the Son of Man does not fast but simply eats and drinks, is just as foolish. They blaspheme Him by saying that He is a gluttonous man and a drunkard. They do this because they are full of gluttony and alcoholism themselves. But they are right in saying that He is a friend of tax collectors and sinners.

In all the works which He does, His perfect wisdom is manifested. His wisdom is justified in His dealings with tax collectors and sinners. That wisdom is justified means that wisdom is vindicated by the way wisdom is used and in what it does.

Matthew 12:3

Playing the Flute and Singing a Dirge

The Lord compares the unbelieving generation with petulant children who cannot be persuaded to respond to what they hear. Neither the attractiveness of grace, come in Christ with His pleasant-sounding notes, nor the threat of righteousness, come in John with his dirge, has any influence on them. The cause of their passivity lies in their false judgment both about John and about Him.

John is demon-possessed according to them, he has a demon. They come to this statement because of his austere way of life, which by the way fits perfectly with the message that he brought. Their judgment of the Lord Jesus, Who as the Son of Man does not fast but simply eats and drinks, is just as foolish. They blaspheme Him by saying that He is a gluttonous man and a drunkard. They do this because they are full of gluttony and alcoholism themselves. But they are right in saying that He is a friend of tax collectors and sinners.

In all the works which He does, His perfect wisdom is manifested. His wisdom is justified in His dealings with tax collectors and sinners. That wisdom is justified means that wisdom is vindicated by the way wisdom is used and in what it does.

Matthew 12:4

‘Woe’ to the Cities of Galilee

If the Lord is going to make reproaches, they are perfectly justified. Every person who has not repented will be reproached of not having repented. Not repenting is a sign of reluctance. The reproach that one person receives may be heavier than the reproach that another person receives. This has to do with the degree of culpability. A judge who trespasses the law that he himself must apply is guiltier than someone who ignorantly trespasses the law.

This is the case with the cities in which the Lord Jesus has shown Who He is in the clearest way. If these cities, despite the multitude of evidence, reject Him, they are guiltier than cities in which He has not revealed Himself in this way. Those pagan cities will also receive the judgment that they deserve because of their immoral behavior. Yet their judgment will be lighter than that of the cities where Christ has given such a clear testimony of Himself and have nevertheless rejected Him.

We might wonder why God did not give such a testimony to the pagan cities the Lord mentions here, for then they would have repented. The answer is that Tyre and Sidon, and Sodom and Gomorrah, according to the wisdom of God, had a testimony of His revelation that was perfectly appropriate for them. They have seen God’s testimony in creation (Romans 1:19-20), but they have not bowed before him. They have acted according to their corrupt nature, and have not taken any notice of His revelation in creation. They will be judged on the basis of this rejection of God’s testimony. Thus, each people is subjected to a test of their obedience to God in a way that perfectly fits their responsibility.

Something special is said about Capernaum. That city has rejected an even greater privilege than all the cities of Israel. The Lord Jesus lived there. They have experienced Him daily. The city is elevated to heaven by His presence, for in the Son of God heaven has come to them. But in reality they will not come into heaven. The opposite is the case. They will be descend to Hades. They have done nothing with the enormous privilege that God lived among them. It has had no effect on them.

Matthew 12:5

‘Woe’ to the Cities of Galilee

If the Lord is going to make reproaches, they are perfectly justified. Every person who has not repented will be reproached of not having repented. Not repenting is a sign of reluctance. The reproach that one person receives may be heavier than the reproach that another person receives. This has to do with the degree of culpability. A judge who trespasses the law that he himself must apply is guiltier than someone who ignorantly trespasses the law.

This is the case with the cities in which the Lord Jesus has shown Who He is in the clearest way. If these cities, despite the multitude of evidence, reject Him, they are guiltier than cities in which He has not revealed Himself in this way. Those pagan cities will also receive the judgment that they deserve because of their immoral behavior. Yet their judgment will be lighter than that of the cities where Christ has given such a clear testimony of Himself and have nevertheless rejected Him.

We might wonder why God did not give such a testimony to the pagan cities the Lord mentions here, for then they would have repented. The answer is that Tyre and Sidon, and Sodom and Gomorrah, according to the wisdom of God, had a testimony of His revelation that was perfectly appropriate for them. They have seen God’s testimony in creation (Romans 1:19-20), but they have not bowed before him. They have acted according to their corrupt nature, and have not taken any notice of His revelation in creation. They will be judged on the basis of this rejection of God’s testimony. Thus, each people is subjected to a test of their obedience to God in a way that perfectly fits their responsibility.

Something special is said about Capernaum. That city has rejected an even greater privilege than all the cities of Israel. The Lord Jesus lived there. They have experienced Him daily. The city is elevated to heaven by His presence, for in the Son of God heaven has come to them. But in reality they will not come into heaven. The opposite is the case. They will be descend to Hades. They have done nothing with the enormous privilege that God lived among them. It has had no effect on them.

Matthew 12:6

‘Woe’ to the Cities of Galilee

If the Lord is going to make reproaches, they are perfectly justified. Every person who has not repented will be reproached of not having repented. Not repenting is a sign of reluctance. The reproach that one person receives may be heavier than the reproach that another person receives. This has to do with the degree of culpability. A judge who trespasses the law that he himself must apply is guiltier than someone who ignorantly trespasses the law.

This is the case with the cities in which the Lord Jesus has shown Who He is in the clearest way. If these cities, despite the multitude of evidence, reject Him, they are guiltier than cities in which He has not revealed Himself in this way. Those pagan cities will also receive the judgment that they deserve because of their immoral behavior. Yet their judgment will be lighter than that of the cities where Christ has given such a clear testimony of Himself and have nevertheless rejected Him.

We might wonder why God did not give such a testimony to the pagan cities the Lord mentions here, for then they would have repented. The answer is that Tyre and Sidon, and Sodom and Gomorrah, according to the wisdom of God, had a testimony of His revelation that was perfectly appropriate for them. They have seen God’s testimony in creation (Romans 1:19-20), but they have not bowed before him. They have acted according to their corrupt nature, and have not taken any notice of His revelation in creation. They will be judged on the basis of this rejection of God’s testimony. Thus, each people is subjected to a test of their obedience to God in a way that perfectly fits their responsibility.

Something special is said about Capernaum. That city has rejected an even greater privilege than all the cities of Israel. The Lord Jesus lived there. They have experienced Him daily. The city is elevated to heaven by His presence, for in the Son of God heaven has come to them. But in reality they will not come into heaven. The opposite is the case. They will be descend to Hades. They have done nothing with the enormous privilege that God lived among them. It has had no effect on them.

Matthew 12:7

‘Woe’ to the Cities of Galilee

If the Lord is going to make reproaches, they are perfectly justified. Every person who has not repented will be reproached of not having repented. Not repenting is a sign of reluctance. The reproach that one person receives may be heavier than the reproach that another person receives. This has to do with the degree of culpability. A judge who trespasses the law that he himself must apply is guiltier than someone who ignorantly trespasses the law.

This is the case with the cities in which the Lord Jesus has shown Who He is in the clearest way. If these cities, despite the multitude of evidence, reject Him, they are guiltier than cities in which He has not revealed Himself in this way. Those pagan cities will also receive the judgment that they deserve because of their immoral behavior. Yet their judgment will be lighter than that of the cities where Christ has given such a clear testimony of Himself and have nevertheless rejected Him.

We might wonder why God did not give such a testimony to the pagan cities the Lord mentions here, for then they would have repented. The answer is that Tyre and Sidon, and Sodom and Gomorrah, according to the wisdom of God, had a testimony of His revelation that was perfectly appropriate for them. They have seen God’s testimony in creation (Romans 1:19-20), but they have not bowed before him. They have acted according to their corrupt nature, and have not taken any notice of His revelation in creation. They will be judged on the basis of this rejection of God’s testimony. Thus, each people is subjected to a test of their obedience to God in a way that perfectly fits their responsibility.

Something special is said about Capernaum. That city has rejected an even greater privilege than all the cities of Israel. The Lord Jesus lived there. They have experienced Him daily. The city is elevated to heaven by His presence, for in the Son of God heaven has come to them. But in reality they will not come into heaven. The opposite is the case. They will be descend to Hades. They have done nothing with the enormous privilege that God lived among them. It has had no effect on them.

Matthew 12:8

‘Woe’ to the Cities of Galilee

If the Lord is going to make reproaches, they are perfectly justified. Every person who has not repented will be reproached of not having repented. Not repenting is a sign of reluctance. The reproach that one person receives may be heavier than the reproach that another person receives. This has to do with the degree of culpability. A judge who trespasses the law that he himself must apply is guiltier than someone who ignorantly trespasses the law.

This is the case with the cities in which the Lord Jesus has shown Who He is in the clearest way. If these cities, despite the multitude of evidence, reject Him, they are guiltier than cities in which He has not revealed Himself in this way. Those pagan cities will also receive the judgment that they deserve because of their immoral behavior. Yet their judgment will be lighter than that of the cities where Christ has given such a clear testimony of Himself and have nevertheless rejected Him.

We might wonder why God did not give such a testimony to the pagan cities the Lord mentions here, for then they would have repented. The answer is that Tyre and Sidon, and Sodom and Gomorrah, according to the wisdom of God, had a testimony of His revelation that was perfectly appropriate for them. They have seen God’s testimony in creation (Romans 1:19-20), but they have not bowed before him. They have acted according to their corrupt nature, and have not taken any notice of His revelation in creation. They will be judged on the basis of this rejection of God’s testimony. Thus, each people is subjected to a test of their obedience to God in a way that perfectly fits their responsibility.

Something special is said about Capernaum. That city has rejected an even greater privilege than all the cities of Israel. The Lord Jesus lived there. They have experienced Him daily. The city is elevated to heaven by His presence, for in the Son of God heaven has come to them. But in reality they will not come into heaven. The opposite is the case. They will be descend to Hades. They have done nothing with the enormous privilege that God lived among them. It has had no effect on them.

Matthew 12:9

Yes, Father

After speaking a ‘woe’ about the cities in which He has worked in this way, we might think that the Lord is discouraged. He expressed Himself in this way prophetically in Isaiah 49 (Isaiah 49:4). It all seemed to be in vain. We also read God’s answer. He says that it is not in vain, but that a greater blessing will come from His rejection, not only for Israel, but for all nations (Isaiah 49:5-6). And here we read the Lord’s answer to His rejection by the people.

He praises the Father as the “Lord of heaven and of earth”. By this He says that everything in heaven and on earth is under His authority. There is nothing that is outside of His control, but everything serves His purpose. Only the little children, the believers who have no high thoughts about themselves, see this.

The wise and intelligent of the world have no understanding of this. It is hidden from them. Profound thinkers, the wise men, do not come to the thought that God is fulfilling His plans in this way. They look for solutions in man. If man starts to behave differently, they think it will be okay. Clear thinkers, the wise, seek the solution in the environment, nature. If only they can influence the environment, they think it will then be fine.

There is, however, no place for the Father with these profound and clear thinkers, let alone for a “yes, Father”. And that is precisely what gives the solution to every disappointment. In this “yes, Father” we hear not so much resignation, but acceptance and full agreement. It is not a question of whether it can be done differently, but the certainty that only in this way it is good. In addition, there is the awareness of the Father’s good pleasure. He does not only do good, He does so on the basis of His pleasure, His joy.

By trusting His Father with the awareness that the Father acts from and with a view to His well-being, the Lord Jesus sees the whole extent of the glory that will follow His rejection. The throne of Israel was refused Him, the Jews rejected Him, the leaders despised Him. But what will He receive? “All things” – that is much more than what has been promised to David and Solomon.

He is rejected as Messiah. But what will be revealed? That He is the eternal Son of the Father, Who is fully known by none but the Father. The promises are not being fulfilled at the moment. But what does He do? He reveals the Father, for He knows the Father. He wants to share this knowledge with the believers. He thereby brings them to a deeper knowledge of God than was possible before that time.

Matthew 12:10

Yes, Father

After speaking a ‘woe’ about the cities in which He has worked in this way, we might think that the Lord is discouraged. He expressed Himself in this way prophetically in Isaiah 49 (Isaiah 49:4). It all seemed to be in vain. We also read God’s answer. He says that it is not in vain, but that a greater blessing will come from His rejection, not only for Israel, but for all nations (Isaiah 49:5-6). And here we read the Lord’s answer to His rejection by the people.

He praises the Father as the “Lord of heaven and of earth”. By this He says that everything in heaven and on earth is under His authority. There is nothing that is outside of His control, but everything serves His purpose. Only the little children, the believers who have no high thoughts about themselves, see this.

The wise and intelligent of the world have no understanding of this. It is hidden from them. Profound thinkers, the wise men, do not come to the thought that God is fulfilling His plans in this way. They look for solutions in man. If man starts to behave differently, they think it will be okay. Clear thinkers, the wise, seek the solution in the environment, nature. If only they can influence the environment, they think it will then be fine.

There is, however, no place for the Father with these profound and clear thinkers, let alone for a “yes, Father”. And that is precisely what gives the solution to every disappointment. In this “yes, Father” we hear not so much resignation, but acceptance and full agreement. It is not a question of whether it can be done differently, but the certainty that only in this way it is good. In addition, there is the awareness of the Father’s good pleasure. He does not only do good, He does so on the basis of His pleasure, His joy.

By trusting His Father with the awareness that the Father acts from and with a view to His well-being, the Lord Jesus sees the whole extent of the glory that will follow His rejection. The throne of Israel was refused Him, the Jews rejected Him, the leaders despised Him. But what will He receive? “All things” – that is much more than what has been promised to David and Solomon.

He is rejected as Messiah. But what will be revealed? That He is the eternal Son of the Father, Who is fully known by none but the Father. The promises are not being fulfilled at the moment. But what does He do? He reveals the Father, for He knows the Father. He wants to share this knowledge with the believers. He thereby brings them to a deeper knowledge of God than was possible before that time.

Matthew 12:11

Yes, Father

After speaking a ‘woe’ about the cities in which He has worked in this way, we might think that the Lord is discouraged. He expressed Himself in this way prophetically in Isaiah 49 (Isaiah 49:4). It all seemed to be in vain. We also read God’s answer. He says that it is not in vain, but that a greater blessing will come from His rejection, not only for Israel, but for all nations (Isaiah 49:5-6). And here we read the Lord’s answer to His rejection by the people.

He praises the Father as the “Lord of heaven and of earth”. By this He says that everything in heaven and on earth is under His authority. There is nothing that is outside of His control, but everything serves His purpose. Only the little children, the believers who have no high thoughts about themselves, see this.

The wise and intelligent of the world have no understanding of this. It is hidden from them. Profound thinkers, the wise men, do not come to the thought that God is fulfilling His plans in this way. They look for solutions in man. If man starts to behave differently, they think it will be okay. Clear thinkers, the wise, seek the solution in the environment, nature. If only they can influence the environment, they think it will then be fine.

There is, however, no place for the Father with these profound and clear thinkers, let alone for a “yes, Father”. And that is precisely what gives the solution to every disappointment. In this “yes, Father” we hear not so much resignation, but acceptance and full agreement. It is not a question of whether it can be done differently, but the certainty that only in this way it is good. In addition, there is the awareness of the Father’s good pleasure. He does not only do good, He does so on the basis of His pleasure, His joy.

By trusting His Father with the awareness that the Father acts from and with a view to His well-being, the Lord Jesus sees the whole extent of the glory that will follow His rejection. The throne of Israel was refused Him, the Jews rejected Him, the leaders despised Him. But what will He receive? “All things” – that is much more than what has been promised to David and Solomon.

He is rejected as Messiah. But what will be revealed? That He is the eternal Son of the Father, Who is fully known by none but the Father. The promises are not being fulfilled at the moment. But what does He do? He reveals the Father, for He knows the Father. He wants to share this knowledge with the believers. He thereby brings them to a deeper knowledge of God than was possible before that time.

Matthew 12:12

Come to Me

The Lord Jesus wants to bring us into fellowship with His Father. He wants to take away the weariness and the burdens that are preventing it. People who are tired of living in misery and being burdened by sins, those on whom the burden of sins weighs heavily and who are aware of it, may come to the Lord Jesus.

He addresses this word not only to the Jews, but to “all”. The enjoyment of this great privilege is for anyone who comes to Him. He makes no prerequisites. He gives rest to all who come, for He has taken the burden of sins upon Himself at Golgotha. This is how He takes the burden of sins away from those who become disciples of the kingdom and introduces them into fellowship with His Father.

But there is more. Once you are a disciple, you must learn how to live life as a disciple. This can only be learned from the Lord Jesus. For this to happen, the yoke of full submission to the Father must be taken up, as He did. We see that when He praises the Father even when experiencing the greatest rejection. This does not depress Him, but He accepts it from the Father’s hand. He is meek and humble in all circumstances. He has never reproached the Father.

Whatever the circumstances, He takes everything from the Father’s hand. His teaching is based on this. Those who come receive the revelation of the Father and learn in Him how to subject themselves to what the Father brings on their path. They learn how to accept any circumstance as coming from His hand.

If it is difficult for us to carry the yoke of the Lord Jesus, it is because we are not humble. If we react rebelliously, it is because we are not meek. We have to learn constantly to surrender everything to the Father.

Grace doesn’t leave it to man to do what he wants. Grace enables the heart which accepts grace, to desire to do the will of God. Then man finds peace. The peace which the Lord gives is the result of coming to Him and concerns the sinner. The peace that is found is the result of following the Lord and concerns the believer.

The Lord teaches them in a new way. Learning from Him is also looking at Him and learning from the abundance of examples that He gives. Gentleness and humility of heart are necessary if a place of dependence is to be taken and preserved.

Rest for the soul has already been presented by Jeremiah as the result of a faithful walk on the old paths (Jeremiah 6:16), but no one has entered that rest. The only way to achieve rest for the soul is now revealed by the Son. Someone gets that rest when he want to take the yoke that He offers. His yoke stands in contrast to the heavy and oppressive yoke of the law. His yoke is not pinching, but easy, and His burden is not oppressive, but light. He helps carry.

Matthew 12:13

Come to Me

The Lord Jesus wants to bring us into fellowship with His Father. He wants to take away the weariness and the burdens that are preventing it. People who are tired of living in misery and being burdened by sins, those on whom the burden of sins weighs heavily and who are aware of it, may come to the Lord Jesus.

He addresses this word not only to the Jews, but to “all”. The enjoyment of this great privilege is for anyone who comes to Him. He makes no prerequisites. He gives rest to all who come, for He has taken the burden of sins upon Himself at Golgotha. This is how He takes the burden of sins away from those who become disciples of the kingdom and introduces them into fellowship with His Father.

But there is more. Once you are a disciple, you must learn how to live life as a disciple. This can only be learned from the Lord Jesus. For this to happen, the yoke of full submission to the Father must be taken up, as He did. We see that when He praises the Father even when experiencing the greatest rejection. This does not depress Him, but He accepts it from the Father’s hand. He is meek and humble in all circumstances. He has never reproached the Father.

Whatever the circumstances, He takes everything from the Father’s hand. His teaching is based on this. Those who come receive the revelation of the Father and learn in Him how to subject themselves to what the Father brings on their path. They learn how to accept any circumstance as coming from His hand.

If it is difficult for us to carry the yoke of the Lord Jesus, it is because we are not humble. If we react rebelliously, it is because we are not meek. We have to learn constantly to surrender everything to the Father.

Grace doesn’t leave it to man to do what he wants. Grace enables the heart which accepts grace, to desire to do the will of God. Then man finds peace. The peace which the Lord gives is the result of coming to Him and concerns the sinner. The peace that is found is the result of following the Lord and concerns the believer.

The Lord teaches them in a new way. Learning from Him is also looking at Him and learning from the abundance of examples that He gives. Gentleness and humility of heart are necessary if a place of dependence is to be taken and preserved.

Rest for the soul has already been presented by Jeremiah as the result of a faithful walk on the old paths (Jeremiah 6:16), but no one has entered that rest. The only way to achieve rest for the soul is now revealed by the Son. Someone gets that rest when he want to take the yoke that He offers. His yoke stands in contrast to the heavy and oppressive yoke of the law. His yoke is not pinching, but easy, and His burden is not oppressive, but light. He helps carry.

Matthew 12:14

Come to Me

The Lord Jesus wants to bring us into fellowship with His Father. He wants to take away the weariness and the burdens that are preventing it. People who are tired of living in misery and being burdened by sins, those on whom the burden of sins weighs heavily and who are aware of it, may come to the Lord Jesus.

He addresses this word not only to the Jews, but to “all”. The enjoyment of this great privilege is for anyone who comes to Him. He makes no prerequisites. He gives rest to all who come, for He has taken the burden of sins upon Himself at Golgotha. This is how He takes the burden of sins away from those who become disciples of the kingdom and introduces them into fellowship with His Father.

But there is more. Once you are a disciple, you must learn how to live life as a disciple. This can only be learned from the Lord Jesus. For this to happen, the yoke of full submission to the Father must be taken up, as He did. We see that when He praises the Father even when experiencing the greatest rejection. This does not depress Him, but He accepts it from the Father’s hand. He is meek and humble in all circumstances. He has never reproached the Father.

Whatever the circumstances, He takes everything from the Father’s hand. His teaching is based on this. Those who come receive the revelation of the Father and learn in Him how to subject themselves to what the Father brings on their path. They learn how to accept any circumstance as coming from His hand.

If it is difficult for us to carry the yoke of the Lord Jesus, it is because we are not humble. If we react rebelliously, it is because we are not meek. We have to learn constantly to surrender everything to the Father.

Grace doesn’t leave it to man to do what he wants. Grace enables the heart which accepts grace, to desire to do the will of God. Then man finds peace. The peace which the Lord gives is the result of coming to Him and concerns the sinner. The peace that is found is the result of following the Lord and concerns the believer.

The Lord teaches them in a new way. Learning from Him is also looking at Him and learning from the abundance of examples that He gives. Gentleness and humility of heart are necessary if a place of dependence is to be taken and preserved.

Rest for the soul has already been presented by Jeremiah as the result of a faithful walk on the old paths (Jeremiah 6:16), but no one has entered that rest. The only way to achieve rest for the soul is now revealed by the Son. Someone gets that rest when he want to take the yoke that He offers. His yoke stands in contrast to the heavy and oppressive yoke of the law. His yoke is not pinching, but easy, and His burden is not oppressive, but light. He helps carry.

Matthew 12:16

Introduction

The glory of the Lord Jesus as the Son of God is seen especially in the Gospel according to John. But that glory also has an important place in this Gospel. We see that in this chapter. Against the dark background of hatred, contempt and rejection His perfections shine in the brightest way. Here Isaiah 1. the Son the Man Who reveals the Father (Matthew 11:27), 2. the Messiah Who is greater than the temple in connection with Israel (Matthew 12:6), 3. the Son of Man Who is Lord of the Sabbath in connection with mankind ( Matthew 12:8), 4. He Who is greater than Jonah in resurrection power (Matthew 12:41) and 5. He Who is greater than Solomon in connection with all the glories of the kingdom (Matthew 12:42).

Picking Heads of Grain on the Sabbath

This chapter is a turning point. A phase is closed. The hearts of the leaders here are becoming completely revealed. The chapter begins with two stories that take place on a Sabbath that makes clear what the leaders are all about. They have laden the commandment of the Sabbath with their own commandments and laws. God intended the Sabbath to be a day of blessing, of rest, of stopping working for one day. But legalistic people have no eye for the blessing. They deny the disciples the enjoyment of what God has given.

It does not matter to the Pharisees that the disciples act entirely in accordance with the law (Deuteronomy 23:25). Pharisees are people for whom it is only important that the appearance looks good. And if they have prescribed anything for that appearance, then people must abide by it. They address the Lord about the conduct of His disciples. The Lord stands up for His disciples. He grants them God’s blessing.

His answer is not only a reference to what God has allowed in the law, where He has made no exception for the Sabbath. The Lord gives the Pharisees a deep lesson. In His answer he asks them about something David does when he is hungry, and those who are with him (1 Samuel 21:1-6). On that occasion David does something that he is not allowed to do, because eating the showbread is only permitted for the priests (Leviticus 24:5-9). However, he is not blamed for it. David is the anointed king, but he is on the run from Saul. He is not recognized as king by his people. That is the position of the Lord Jesus at that moment.

When God’s anointed king David is on the run from his own people, the foundation of God’s people is taken away. What the loaves represent has lost its meaning. They no longer represent God’s people according to the meaning it has for God. To then hold on to an outward ritual and to let God’s anointed die of hunger for its benefit would be pure formalism. That is not what God meant by His institution of the showbread. When His anointed king is persecuted, the showbread become ordinary loaves of bread and can be consumed by those who need them.

In this example the Lord shows the sin and total decline of Israel. The true king, David, is despised and persecuted because of the king who the people themselves wanted. It is like this again. The sin of Israel deconsecrates the holy bread. God does not want to accept anything as holy from a people living in sin. If the disciples of the true King are hungry just like the men of David, they may eat lawfully of what God offers, even on the Sabbath.

The Lord Jesus presents another example that completely sets aside their reasoning about profaning the Sabbath. He points to the priests who do the much-needed work in the temple on the Sabbath day. This includes at least the sacrifice prescribed for the Sabbath (Numbers 28:9-10) and also the daily burnt offering, which cannot be skipped on the Sabbath (Exodus 29:38). These sacrifices are necessary so that God can continue to dwell among a sinful people. On the Sabbath the priests have to work even harder than on other days. They have no rest on the Sabbath.

God does not act according to strict rules. The priests are allowed to do a lot of this work on the Sabbath, because it is related to the service of God. The Sabbath is the centerpiece of the old covenant, there is nothing so characteristic as the Sabbath.

Both examples make it clear that Israel is made up of sinners. In one case, it is apparent by the persecution of the anointed king, through which the showbread become common loaves of bread. In the other case, it is apparent by the sacrifices that must necessarily take place, even if it is Sabbath.

After the Lord has shown that God will not be bound by His precepts when His people have left Him, He points to Himself as greater than the temple. He is not only the Anointed of God Whom they persecute. He is God Himself, Who determines the service in the temple. He determines how God should be served and not the formalistic Pharisees. With formalistic people it is only about the outward appearance, with God it is first and foremost about what is inward.

The Pharisees have condemned the innocent disciples because they know nothing about mercy. Legalistic people are never merciful, but oppress the poor and impose burdens on others. They only look at the sacrifice and not at the heart. Mercy comes from the heart and that’s what God looks at.

Just as the Lord is greater than the temple, so He is also Lord of the Sabbath. This means that the Sabbath has no binding power over Him. He is its Master and can dispose of it as He pleases. He established the Sabbath and is therefore not subject to it. The Sabbath is a picture of the kingdom of peace. Then He will reign over all the earth as the great King. Then it will be seen that He is, as the Son of Man, Lord of all the earth.

Matthew 12:17

Introduction

The glory of the Lord Jesus as the Son of God is seen especially in the Gospel according to John. But that glory also has an important place in this Gospel. We see that in this chapter. Against the dark background of hatred, contempt and rejection His perfections shine in the brightest way. Here Isaiah 1. the Son the Man Who reveals the Father (Matthew 11:27), 2. the Messiah Who is greater than the temple in connection with Israel (Matthew 12:6), 3. the Son of Man Who is Lord of the Sabbath in connection with mankind ( Matthew 12:8), 4. He Who is greater than Jonah in resurrection power (Matthew 12:41) and 5. He Who is greater than Solomon in connection with all the glories of the kingdom (Matthew 12:42).

Picking Heads of Grain on the Sabbath

This chapter is a turning point. A phase is closed. The hearts of the leaders here are becoming completely revealed. The chapter begins with two stories that take place on a Sabbath that makes clear what the leaders are all about. They have laden the commandment of the Sabbath with their own commandments and laws. God intended the Sabbath to be a day of blessing, of rest, of stopping working for one day. But legalistic people have no eye for the blessing. They deny the disciples the enjoyment of what God has given.

It does not matter to the Pharisees that the disciples act entirely in accordance with the law (Deuteronomy 23:25). Pharisees are people for whom it is only important that the appearance looks good. And if they have prescribed anything for that appearance, then people must abide by it. They address the Lord about the conduct of His disciples. The Lord stands up for His disciples. He grants them God’s blessing.

His answer is not only a reference to what God has allowed in the law, where He has made no exception for the Sabbath. The Lord gives the Pharisees a deep lesson. In His answer he asks them about something David does when he is hungry, and those who are with him (1 Samuel 21:1-6). On that occasion David does something that he is not allowed to do, because eating the showbread is only permitted for the priests (Leviticus 24:5-9). However, he is not blamed for it. David is the anointed king, but he is on the run from Saul. He is not recognized as king by his people. That is the position of the Lord Jesus at that moment.

When God’s anointed king David is on the run from his own people, the foundation of God’s people is taken away. What the loaves represent has lost its meaning. They no longer represent God’s people according to the meaning it has for God. To then hold on to an outward ritual and to let God’s anointed die of hunger for its benefit would be pure formalism. That is not what God meant by His institution of the showbread. When His anointed king is persecuted, the showbread become ordinary loaves of bread and can be consumed by those who need them.

In this example the Lord shows the sin and total decline of Israel. The true king, David, is despised and persecuted because of the king who the people themselves wanted. It is like this again. The sin of Israel deconsecrates the holy bread. God does not want to accept anything as holy from a people living in sin. If the disciples of the true King are hungry just like the men of David, they may eat lawfully of what God offers, even on the Sabbath.

The Lord Jesus presents another example that completely sets aside their reasoning about profaning the Sabbath. He points to the priests who do the much-needed work in the temple on the Sabbath day. This includes at least the sacrifice prescribed for the Sabbath (Numbers 28:9-10) and also the daily burnt offering, which cannot be skipped on the Sabbath (Exodus 29:38). These sacrifices are necessary so that God can continue to dwell among a sinful people. On the Sabbath the priests have to work even harder than on other days. They have no rest on the Sabbath.

God does not act according to strict rules. The priests are allowed to do a lot of this work on the Sabbath, because it is related to the service of God. The Sabbath is the centerpiece of the old covenant, there is nothing so characteristic as the Sabbath.

Both examples make it clear that Israel is made up of sinners. In one case, it is apparent by the persecution of the anointed king, through which the showbread become common loaves of bread. In the other case, it is apparent by the sacrifices that must necessarily take place, even if it is Sabbath.

After the Lord has shown that God will not be bound by His precepts when His people have left Him, He points to Himself as greater than the temple. He is not only the Anointed of God Whom they persecute. He is God Himself, Who determines the service in the temple. He determines how God should be served and not the formalistic Pharisees. With formalistic people it is only about the outward appearance, with God it is first and foremost about what is inward.

The Pharisees have condemned the innocent disciples because they know nothing about mercy. Legalistic people are never merciful, but oppress the poor and impose burdens on others. They only look at the sacrifice and not at the heart. Mercy comes from the heart and that’s what God looks at.

Just as the Lord is greater than the temple, so He is also Lord of the Sabbath. This means that the Sabbath has no binding power over Him. He is its Master and can dispose of it as He pleases. He established the Sabbath and is therefore not subject to it. The Sabbath is a picture of the kingdom of peace. Then He will reign over all the earth as the great King. Then it will be seen that He is, as the Son of Man, Lord of all the earth.

Matthew 12:18

Introduction

The glory of the Lord Jesus as the Son of God is seen especially in the Gospel according to John. But that glory also has an important place in this Gospel. We see that in this chapter. Against the dark background of hatred, contempt and rejection His perfections shine in the brightest way. Here Isaiah 1. the Son the Man Who reveals the Father (Matthew 11:27), 2. the Messiah Who is greater than the temple in connection with Israel (Matthew 12:6), 3. the Son of Man Who is Lord of the Sabbath in connection with mankind ( Matthew 12:8), 4. He Who is greater than Jonah in resurrection power (Matthew 12:41) and 5. He Who is greater than Solomon in connection with all the glories of the kingdom (Matthew 12:42).

Picking Heads of Grain on the Sabbath

This chapter is a turning point. A phase is closed. The hearts of the leaders here are becoming completely revealed. The chapter begins with two stories that take place on a Sabbath that makes clear what the leaders are all about. They have laden the commandment of the Sabbath with their own commandments and laws. God intended the Sabbath to be a day of blessing, of rest, of stopping working for one day. But legalistic people have no eye for the blessing. They deny the disciples the enjoyment of what God has given.

It does not matter to the Pharisees that the disciples act entirely in accordance with the law (Deuteronomy 23:25). Pharisees are people for whom it is only important that the appearance looks good. And if they have prescribed anything for that appearance, then people must abide by it. They address the Lord about the conduct of His disciples. The Lord stands up for His disciples. He grants them God’s blessing.

His answer is not only a reference to what God has allowed in the law, where He has made no exception for the Sabbath. The Lord gives the Pharisees a deep lesson. In His answer he asks them about something David does when he is hungry, and those who are with him (1 Samuel 21:1-6). On that occasion David does something that he is not allowed to do, because eating the showbread is only permitted for the priests (Leviticus 24:5-9). However, he is not blamed for it. David is the anointed king, but he is on the run from Saul. He is not recognized as king by his people. That is the position of the Lord Jesus at that moment.

When God’s anointed king David is on the run from his own people, the foundation of God’s people is taken away. What the loaves represent has lost its meaning. They no longer represent God’s people according to the meaning it has for God. To then hold on to an outward ritual and to let God’s anointed die of hunger for its benefit would be pure formalism. That is not what God meant by His institution of the showbread. When His anointed king is persecuted, the showbread become ordinary loaves of bread and can be consumed by those who need them.

In this example the Lord shows the sin and total decline of Israel. The true king, David, is despised and persecuted because of the king who the people themselves wanted. It is like this again. The sin of Israel deconsecrates the holy bread. God does not want to accept anything as holy from a people living in sin. If the disciples of the true King are hungry just like the men of David, they may eat lawfully of what God offers, even on the Sabbath.

The Lord Jesus presents another example that completely sets aside their reasoning about profaning the Sabbath. He points to the priests who do the much-needed work in the temple on the Sabbath day. This includes at least the sacrifice prescribed for the Sabbath (Numbers 28:9-10) and also the daily burnt offering, which cannot be skipped on the Sabbath (Exodus 29:38). These sacrifices are necessary so that God can continue to dwell among a sinful people. On the Sabbath the priests have to work even harder than on other days. They have no rest on the Sabbath.

God does not act according to strict rules. The priests are allowed to do a lot of this work on the Sabbath, because it is related to the service of God. The Sabbath is the centerpiece of the old covenant, there is nothing so characteristic as the Sabbath.

Both examples make it clear that Israel is made up of sinners. In one case, it is apparent by the persecution of the anointed king, through which the showbread become common loaves of bread. In the other case, it is apparent by the sacrifices that must necessarily take place, even if it is Sabbath.

After the Lord has shown that God will not be bound by His precepts when His people have left Him, He points to Himself as greater than the temple. He is not only the Anointed of God Whom they persecute. He is God Himself, Who determines the service in the temple. He determines how God should be served and not the formalistic Pharisees. With formalistic people it is only about the outward appearance, with God it is first and foremost about what is inward.

The Pharisees have condemned the innocent disciples because they know nothing about mercy. Legalistic people are never merciful, but oppress the poor and impose burdens on others. They only look at the sacrifice and not at the heart. Mercy comes from the heart and that’s what God looks at.

Just as the Lord is greater than the temple, so He is also Lord of the Sabbath. This means that the Sabbath has no binding power over Him. He is its Master and can dispose of it as He pleases. He established the Sabbath and is therefore not subject to it. The Sabbath is a picture of the kingdom of peace. Then He will reign over all the earth as the great King. Then it will be seen that He is, as the Son of Man, Lord of all the earth.

Matthew 12:19

Introduction

The glory of the Lord Jesus as the Son of God is seen especially in the Gospel according to John. But that glory also has an important place in this Gospel. We see that in this chapter. Against the dark background of hatred, contempt and rejection His perfections shine in the brightest way. Here Isaiah 1. the Son the Man Who reveals the Father (Matthew 11:27), 2. the Messiah Who is greater than the temple in connection with Israel (Matthew 12:6), 3. the Son of Man Who is Lord of the Sabbath in connection with mankind ( Matthew 12:8), 4. He Who is greater than Jonah in resurrection power (Matthew 12:41) and 5. He Who is greater than Solomon in connection with all the glories of the kingdom (Matthew 12:42).

Picking Heads of Grain on the Sabbath

This chapter is a turning point. A phase is closed. The hearts of the leaders here are becoming completely revealed. The chapter begins with two stories that take place on a Sabbath that makes clear what the leaders are all about. They have laden the commandment of the Sabbath with their own commandments and laws. God intended the Sabbath to be a day of blessing, of rest, of stopping working for one day. But legalistic people have no eye for the blessing. They deny the disciples the enjoyment of what God has given.

It does not matter to the Pharisees that the disciples act entirely in accordance with the law (Deuteronomy 23:25). Pharisees are people for whom it is only important that the appearance looks good. And if they have prescribed anything for that appearance, then people must abide by it. They address the Lord about the conduct of His disciples. The Lord stands up for His disciples. He grants them God’s blessing.

His answer is not only a reference to what God has allowed in the law, where He has made no exception for the Sabbath. The Lord gives the Pharisees a deep lesson. In His answer he asks them about something David does when he is hungry, and those who are with him (1 Samuel 21:1-6). On that occasion David does something that he is not allowed to do, because eating the showbread is only permitted for the priests (Leviticus 24:5-9). However, he is not blamed for it. David is the anointed king, but he is on the run from Saul. He is not recognized as king by his people. That is the position of the Lord Jesus at that moment.

When God’s anointed king David is on the run from his own people, the foundation of God’s people is taken away. What the loaves represent has lost its meaning. They no longer represent God’s people according to the meaning it has for God. To then hold on to an outward ritual and to let God’s anointed die of hunger for its benefit would be pure formalism. That is not what God meant by His institution of the showbread. When His anointed king is persecuted, the showbread become ordinary loaves of bread and can be consumed by those who need them.

In this example the Lord shows the sin and total decline of Israel. The true king, David, is despised and persecuted because of the king who the people themselves wanted. It is like this again. The sin of Israel deconsecrates the holy bread. God does not want to accept anything as holy from a people living in sin. If the disciples of the true King are hungry just like the men of David, they may eat lawfully of what God offers, even on the Sabbath.

The Lord Jesus presents another example that completely sets aside their reasoning about profaning the Sabbath. He points to the priests who do the much-needed work in the temple on the Sabbath day. This includes at least the sacrifice prescribed for the Sabbath (Numbers 28:9-10) and also the daily burnt offering, which cannot be skipped on the Sabbath (Exodus 29:38). These sacrifices are necessary so that God can continue to dwell among a sinful people. On the Sabbath the priests have to work even harder than on other days. They have no rest on the Sabbath.

God does not act according to strict rules. The priests are allowed to do a lot of this work on the Sabbath, because it is related to the service of God. The Sabbath is the centerpiece of the old covenant, there is nothing so characteristic as the Sabbath.

Both examples make it clear that Israel is made up of sinners. In one case, it is apparent by the persecution of the anointed king, through which the showbread become common loaves of bread. In the other case, it is apparent by the sacrifices that must necessarily take place, even if it is Sabbath.

After the Lord has shown that God will not be bound by His precepts when His people have left Him, He points to Himself as greater than the temple. He is not only the Anointed of God Whom they persecute. He is God Himself, Who determines the service in the temple. He determines how God should be served and not the formalistic Pharisees. With formalistic people it is only about the outward appearance, with God it is first and foremost about what is inward.

The Pharisees have condemned the innocent disciples because they know nothing about mercy. Legalistic people are never merciful, but oppress the poor and impose burdens on others. They only look at the sacrifice and not at the heart. Mercy comes from the heart and that’s what God looks at.

Just as the Lord is greater than the temple, so He is also Lord of the Sabbath. This means that the Sabbath has no binding power over Him. He is its Master and can dispose of it as He pleases. He established the Sabbath and is therefore not subject to it. The Sabbath is a picture of the kingdom of peace. Then He will reign over all the earth as the great King. Then it will be seen that He is, as the Son of Man, Lord of all the earth.

Matthew 12:20

Introduction

The glory of the Lord Jesus as the Son of God is seen especially in the Gospel according to John. But that glory also has an important place in this Gospel. We see that in this chapter. Against the dark background of hatred, contempt and rejection His perfections shine in the brightest way. Here Isaiah 1. the Son the Man Who reveals the Father (Matthew 11:27), 2. the Messiah Who is greater than the temple in connection with Israel (Matthew 12:6), 3. the Son of Man Who is Lord of the Sabbath in connection with mankind ( Matthew 12:8), 4. He Who is greater than Jonah in resurrection power (Matthew 12:41) and 5. He Who is greater than Solomon in connection with all the glories of the kingdom (Matthew 12:42).

Picking Heads of Grain on the Sabbath

This chapter is a turning point. A phase is closed. The hearts of the leaders here are becoming completely revealed. The chapter begins with two stories that take place on a Sabbath that makes clear what the leaders are all about. They have laden the commandment of the Sabbath with their own commandments and laws. God intended the Sabbath to be a day of blessing, of rest, of stopping working for one day. But legalistic people have no eye for the blessing. They deny the disciples the enjoyment of what God has given.

It does not matter to the Pharisees that the disciples act entirely in accordance with the law (Deuteronomy 23:25). Pharisees are people for whom it is only important that the appearance looks good. And if they have prescribed anything for that appearance, then people must abide by it. They address the Lord about the conduct of His disciples. The Lord stands up for His disciples. He grants them God’s blessing.

His answer is not only a reference to what God has allowed in the law, where He has made no exception for the Sabbath. The Lord gives the Pharisees a deep lesson. In His answer he asks them about something David does when he is hungry, and those who are with him (1 Samuel 21:1-6). On that occasion David does something that he is not allowed to do, because eating the showbread is only permitted for the priests (Leviticus 24:5-9). However, he is not blamed for it. David is the anointed king, but he is on the run from Saul. He is not recognized as king by his people. That is the position of the Lord Jesus at that moment.

When God’s anointed king David is on the run from his own people, the foundation of God’s people is taken away. What the loaves represent has lost its meaning. They no longer represent God’s people according to the meaning it has for God. To then hold on to an outward ritual and to let God’s anointed die of hunger for its benefit would be pure formalism. That is not what God meant by His institution of the showbread. When His anointed king is persecuted, the showbread become ordinary loaves of bread and can be consumed by those who need them.

In this example the Lord shows the sin and total decline of Israel. The true king, David, is despised and persecuted because of the king who the people themselves wanted. It is like this again. The sin of Israel deconsecrates the holy bread. God does not want to accept anything as holy from a people living in sin. If the disciples of the true King are hungry just like the men of David, they may eat lawfully of what God offers, even on the Sabbath.

The Lord Jesus presents another example that completely sets aside their reasoning about profaning the Sabbath. He points to the priests who do the much-needed work in the temple on the Sabbath day. This includes at least the sacrifice prescribed for the Sabbath (Numbers 28:9-10) and also the daily burnt offering, which cannot be skipped on the Sabbath (Exodus 29:38). These sacrifices are necessary so that God can continue to dwell among a sinful people. On the Sabbath the priests have to work even harder than on other days. They have no rest on the Sabbath.

God does not act according to strict rules. The priests are allowed to do a lot of this work on the Sabbath, because it is related to the service of God. The Sabbath is the centerpiece of the old covenant, there is nothing so characteristic as the Sabbath.

Both examples make it clear that Israel is made up of sinners. In one case, it is apparent by the persecution of the anointed king, through which the showbread become common loaves of bread. In the other case, it is apparent by the sacrifices that must necessarily take place, even if it is Sabbath.

After the Lord has shown that God will not be bound by His precepts when His people have left Him, He points to Himself as greater than the temple. He is not only the Anointed of God Whom they persecute. He is God Himself, Who determines the service in the temple. He determines how God should be served and not the formalistic Pharisees. With formalistic people it is only about the outward appearance, with God it is first and foremost about what is inward.

The Pharisees have condemned the innocent disciples because they know nothing about mercy. Legalistic people are never merciful, but oppress the poor and impose burdens on others. They only look at the sacrifice and not at the heart. Mercy comes from the heart and that’s what God looks at.

Just as the Lord is greater than the temple, so He is also Lord of the Sabbath. This means that the Sabbath has no binding power over Him. He is its Master and can dispose of it as He pleases. He established the Sabbath and is therefore not subject to it. The Sabbath is a picture of the kingdom of peace. Then He will reign over all the earth as the great King. Then it will be seen that He is, as the Son of Man, Lord of all the earth.

Matthew 12:21

Introduction

The glory of the Lord Jesus as the Son of God is seen especially in the Gospel according to John. But that glory also has an important place in this Gospel. We see that in this chapter. Against the dark background of hatred, contempt and rejection His perfections shine in the brightest way. Here Isaiah 1. the Son the Man Who reveals the Father (Matthew 11:27), 2. the Messiah Who is greater than the temple in connection with Israel (Matthew 12:6), 3. the Son of Man Who is Lord of the Sabbath in connection with mankind ( Matthew 12:8), 4. He Who is greater than Jonah in resurrection power (Matthew 12:41) and 5. He Who is greater than Solomon in connection with all the glories of the kingdom (Matthew 12:42).

Picking Heads of Grain on the Sabbath

This chapter is a turning point. A phase is closed. The hearts of the leaders here are becoming completely revealed. The chapter begins with two stories that take place on a Sabbath that makes clear what the leaders are all about. They have laden the commandment of the Sabbath with their own commandments and laws. God intended the Sabbath to be a day of blessing, of rest, of stopping working for one day. But legalistic people have no eye for the blessing. They deny the disciples the enjoyment of what God has given.

It does not matter to the Pharisees that the disciples act entirely in accordance with the law (Deuteronomy 23:25). Pharisees are people for whom it is only important that the appearance looks good. And if they have prescribed anything for that appearance, then people must abide by it. They address the Lord about the conduct of His disciples. The Lord stands up for His disciples. He grants them God’s blessing.

His answer is not only a reference to what God has allowed in the law, where He has made no exception for the Sabbath. The Lord gives the Pharisees a deep lesson. In His answer he asks them about something David does when he is hungry, and those who are with him (1 Samuel 21:1-6). On that occasion David does something that he is not allowed to do, because eating the showbread is only permitted for the priests (Leviticus 24:5-9). However, he is not blamed for it. David is the anointed king, but he is on the run from Saul. He is not recognized as king by his people. That is the position of the Lord Jesus at that moment.

When God’s anointed king David is on the run from his own people, the foundation of God’s people is taken away. What the loaves represent has lost its meaning. They no longer represent God’s people according to the meaning it has for God. To then hold on to an outward ritual and to let God’s anointed die of hunger for its benefit would be pure formalism. That is not what God meant by His institution of the showbread. When His anointed king is persecuted, the showbread become ordinary loaves of bread and can be consumed by those who need them.

In this example the Lord shows the sin and total decline of Israel. The true king, David, is despised and persecuted because of the king who the people themselves wanted. It is like this again. The sin of Israel deconsecrates the holy bread. God does not want to accept anything as holy from a people living in sin. If the disciples of the true King are hungry just like the men of David, they may eat lawfully of what God offers, even on the Sabbath.

The Lord Jesus presents another example that completely sets aside their reasoning about profaning the Sabbath. He points to the priests who do the much-needed work in the temple on the Sabbath day. This includes at least the sacrifice prescribed for the Sabbath (Numbers 28:9-10) and also the daily burnt offering, which cannot be skipped on the Sabbath (Exodus 29:38). These sacrifices are necessary so that God can continue to dwell among a sinful people. On the Sabbath the priests have to work even harder than on other days. They have no rest on the Sabbath.

God does not act according to strict rules. The priests are allowed to do a lot of this work on the Sabbath, because it is related to the service of God. The Sabbath is the centerpiece of the old covenant, there is nothing so characteristic as the Sabbath.

Both examples make it clear that Israel is made up of sinners. In one case, it is apparent by the persecution of the anointed king, through which the showbread become common loaves of bread. In the other case, it is apparent by the sacrifices that must necessarily take place, even if it is Sabbath.

After the Lord has shown that God will not be bound by His precepts when His people have left Him, He points to Himself as greater than the temple. He is not only the Anointed of God Whom they persecute. He is God Himself, Who determines the service in the temple. He determines how God should be served and not the formalistic Pharisees. With formalistic people it is only about the outward appearance, with God it is first and foremost about what is inward.

The Pharisees have condemned the innocent disciples because they know nothing about mercy. Legalistic people are never merciful, but oppress the poor and impose burdens on others. They only look at the sacrifice and not at the heart. Mercy comes from the heart and that’s what God looks at.

Just as the Lord is greater than the temple, so He is also Lord of the Sabbath. This means that the Sabbath has no binding power over Him. He is its Master and can dispose of it as He pleases. He established the Sabbath and is therefore not subject to it. The Sabbath is a picture of the kingdom of peace. Then He will reign over all the earth as the great King. Then it will be seen that He is, as the Son of Man, Lord of all the earth.

Matthew 12:22

Introduction

The glory of the Lord Jesus as the Son of God is seen especially in the Gospel according to John. But that glory also has an important place in this Gospel. We see that in this chapter. Against the dark background of hatred, contempt and rejection His perfections shine in the brightest way. Here Isaiah 1. the Son the Man Who reveals the Father (Matthew 11:27), 2. the Messiah Who is greater than the temple in connection with Israel (Matthew 12:6), 3. the Son of Man Who is Lord of the Sabbath in connection with mankind ( Matthew 12:8), 4. He Who is greater than Jonah in resurrection power (Matthew 12:41) and 5. He Who is greater than Solomon in connection with all the glories of the kingdom (Matthew 12:42).

Picking Heads of Grain on the Sabbath

This chapter is a turning point. A phase is closed. The hearts of the leaders here are becoming completely revealed. The chapter begins with two stories that take place on a Sabbath that makes clear what the leaders are all about. They have laden the commandment of the Sabbath with their own commandments and laws. God intended the Sabbath to be a day of blessing, of rest, of stopping working for one day. But legalistic people have no eye for the blessing. They deny the disciples the enjoyment of what God has given.

It does not matter to the Pharisees that the disciples act entirely in accordance with the law (Deuteronomy 23:25). Pharisees are people for whom it is only important that the appearance looks good. And if they have prescribed anything for that appearance, then people must abide by it. They address the Lord about the conduct of His disciples. The Lord stands up for His disciples. He grants them God’s blessing.

His answer is not only a reference to what God has allowed in the law, where He has made no exception for the Sabbath. The Lord gives the Pharisees a deep lesson. In His answer he asks them about something David does when he is hungry, and those who are with him (1 Samuel 21:1-6). On that occasion David does something that he is not allowed to do, because eating the showbread is only permitted for the priests (Leviticus 24:5-9). However, he is not blamed for it. David is the anointed king, but he is on the run from Saul. He is not recognized as king by his people. That is the position of the Lord Jesus at that moment.

When God’s anointed king David is on the run from his own people, the foundation of God’s people is taken away. What the loaves represent has lost its meaning. They no longer represent God’s people according to the meaning it has for God. To then hold on to an outward ritual and to let God’s anointed die of hunger for its benefit would be pure formalism. That is not what God meant by His institution of the showbread. When His anointed king is persecuted, the showbread become ordinary loaves of bread and can be consumed by those who need them.

In this example the Lord shows the sin and total decline of Israel. The true king, David, is despised and persecuted because of the king who the people themselves wanted. It is like this again. The sin of Israel deconsecrates the holy bread. God does not want to accept anything as holy from a people living in sin. If the disciples of the true King are hungry just like the men of David, they may eat lawfully of what God offers, even on the Sabbath.

The Lord Jesus presents another example that completely sets aside their reasoning about profaning the Sabbath. He points to the priests who do the much-needed work in the temple on the Sabbath day. This includes at least the sacrifice prescribed for the Sabbath (Numbers 28:9-10) and also the daily burnt offering, which cannot be skipped on the Sabbath (Exodus 29:38). These sacrifices are necessary so that God can continue to dwell among a sinful people. On the Sabbath the priests have to work even harder than on other days. They have no rest on the Sabbath.

God does not act according to strict rules. The priests are allowed to do a lot of this work on the Sabbath, because it is related to the service of God. The Sabbath is the centerpiece of the old covenant, there is nothing so characteristic as the Sabbath.

Both examples make it clear that Israel is made up of sinners. In one case, it is apparent by the persecution of the anointed king, through which the showbread become common loaves of bread. In the other case, it is apparent by the sacrifices that must necessarily take place, even if it is Sabbath.

After the Lord has shown that God will not be bound by His precepts when His people have left Him, He points to Himself as greater than the temple. He is not only the Anointed of God Whom they persecute. He is God Himself, Who determines the service in the temple. He determines how God should be served and not the formalistic Pharisees. With formalistic people it is only about the outward appearance, with God it is first and foremost about what is inward.

The Pharisees have condemned the innocent disciples because they know nothing about mercy. Legalistic people are never merciful, but oppress the poor and impose burdens on others. They only look at the sacrifice and not at the heart. Mercy comes from the heart and that’s what God looks at.

Just as the Lord is greater than the temple, so He is also Lord of the Sabbath. This means that the Sabbath has no binding power over Him. He is its Master and can dispose of it as He pleases. He established the Sabbath and is therefore not subject to it. The Sabbath is a picture of the kingdom of peace. Then He will reign over all the earth as the great King. Then it will be seen that He is, as the Son of Man, Lord of all the earth.

Matthew 12:23

Introduction

The glory of the Lord Jesus as the Son of God is seen especially in the Gospel according to John. But that glory also has an important place in this Gospel. We see that in this chapter. Against the dark background of hatred, contempt and rejection His perfections shine in the brightest way. Here Isaiah 1. the Son the Man Who reveals the Father (Matthew 11:27), 2. the Messiah Who is greater than the temple in connection with Israel (Matthew 12:6), 3. the Son of Man Who is Lord of the Sabbath in connection with mankind ( Matthew 12:8), 4. He Who is greater than Jonah in resurrection power (Matthew 12:41) and 5. He Who is greater than Solomon in connection with all the glories of the kingdom (Matthew 12:42).

Picking Heads of Grain on the Sabbath

This chapter is a turning point. A phase is closed. The hearts of the leaders here are becoming completely revealed. The chapter begins with two stories that take place on a Sabbath that makes clear what the leaders are all about. They have laden the commandment of the Sabbath with their own commandments and laws. God intended the Sabbath to be a day of blessing, of rest, of stopping working for one day. But legalistic people have no eye for the blessing. They deny the disciples the enjoyment of what God has given.

It does not matter to the Pharisees that the disciples act entirely in accordance with the law (Deuteronomy 23:25). Pharisees are people for whom it is only important that the appearance looks good. And if they have prescribed anything for that appearance, then people must abide by it. They address the Lord about the conduct of His disciples. The Lord stands up for His disciples. He grants them God’s blessing.

His answer is not only a reference to what God has allowed in the law, where He has made no exception for the Sabbath. The Lord gives the Pharisees a deep lesson. In His answer he asks them about something David does when he is hungry, and those who are with him (1 Samuel 21:1-6). On that occasion David does something that he is not allowed to do, because eating the showbread is only permitted for the priests (Leviticus 24:5-9). However, he is not blamed for it. David is the anointed king, but he is on the run from Saul. He is not recognized as king by his people. That is the position of the Lord Jesus at that moment.

When God’s anointed king David is on the run from his own people, the foundation of God’s people is taken away. What the loaves represent has lost its meaning. They no longer represent God’s people according to the meaning it has for God. To then hold on to an outward ritual and to let God’s anointed die of hunger for its benefit would be pure formalism. That is not what God meant by His institution of the showbread. When His anointed king is persecuted, the showbread become ordinary loaves of bread and can be consumed by those who need them.

In this example the Lord shows the sin and total decline of Israel. The true king, David, is despised and persecuted because of the king who the people themselves wanted. It is like this again. The sin of Israel deconsecrates the holy bread. God does not want to accept anything as holy from a people living in sin. If the disciples of the true King are hungry just like the men of David, they may eat lawfully of what God offers, even on the Sabbath.

The Lord Jesus presents another example that completely sets aside their reasoning about profaning the Sabbath. He points to the priests who do the much-needed work in the temple on the Sabbath day. This includes at least the sacrifice prescribed for the Sabbath (Numbers 28:9-10) and also the daily burnt offering, which cannot be skipped on the Sabbath (Exodus 29:38). These sacrifices are necessary so that God can continue to dwell among a sinful people. On the Sabbath the priests have to work even harder than on other days. They have no rest on the Sabbath.

God does not act according to strict rules. The priests are allowed to do a lot of this work on the Sabbath, because it is related to the service of God. The Sabbath is the centerpiece of the old covenant, there is nothing so characteristic as the Sabbath.

Both examples make it clear that Israel is made up of sinners. In one case, it is apparent by the persecution of the anointed king, through which the showbread become common loaves of bread. In the other case, it is apparent by the sacrifices that must necessarily take place, even if it is Sabbath.

After the Lord has shown that God will not be bound by His precepts when His people have left Him, He points to Himself as greater than the temple. He is not only the Anointed of God Whom they persecute. He is God Himself, Who determines the service in the temple. He determines how God should be served and not the formalistic Pharisees. With formalistic people it is only about the outward appearance, with God it is first and foremost about what is inward.

The Pharisees have condemned the innocent disciples because they know nothing about mercy. Legalistic people are never merciful, but oppress the poor and impose burdens on others. They only look at the sacrifice and not at the heart. Mercy comes from the heart and that’s what God looks at.

Just as the Lord is greater than the temple, so He is also Lord of the Sabbath. This means that the Sabbath has no binding power over Him. He is its Master and can dispose of it as He pleases. He established the Sabbath and is therefore not subject to it. The Sabbath is a picture of the kingdom of peace. Then He will reign over all the earth as the great King. Then it will be seen that He is, as the Son of Man, Lord of all the earth.

Matthew 12:24

Healing a Withered Hand

After his journey through the fields, the Lord enters their synagogue and another story on the Sabbath follows. The previous one concerns His Person and the authority He has over the Sabbath. This is about His work, the work of mercy, for which the Sabbath is particularly suitable. He shows that the Sabbath is a day of blessing.

In their synagogue is a man with a withered hand. The poor man can’t pick any ears of corn and rub them in his hands because of his withered hand. He cannot make use the blessing of the Sabbath. The man does not ask to be healed, but the Lord knows his unspoken question.

The Pharisees are also present in the synagogue. They are keen observers. They see someone with a handicap and they see Someone Who they know as the Merciful One. In their malicious perceptiveness they rightly assume that the Lord wants to heal the man. In their foolish consideration they believe that this is an excellent opportunity to ask Him a trick question. The Lord lets them ask their question. It gives Him the opportunity to demonstrate His glory and their hypocrisy. In this way they themselves fall into the trap they have set for Him.

They ask Him whether it is lawful to do good and bless on the Sabbath. What a question! The question alone makes it clear how narrow and legalistic they think. This is made even clearer by the example the Lord presents them. It shows that they do not suffer from their conscience on the Sabbath when it is to their own advantage. Then they will make an exception. Healing on the Sabbath, however, does not occur in their thinking and in their rules. They have no rules for it, that is why it is not allowed.

The Lord exposes the folly of legalistic thinking. His conclusion must have been razor-sharp to their ears. Then He turns to the man. He himself has to do something. He must stretch out his hand toward the Lord and take the blessing. He does what the Lord says, and the blessing flows into him. Neither the clear word of the Lord nor His act of healing bring the Pharisees to repentance. On the contrary. The proof of grace makes them go out. They can no longer remain in the presence of so much grace and truth.

When they are outside, outside of the atmosphere where grace is displayed, they start plotting plans of murder. Those who consciously withdraw from the presence of Christ will increasingly reveal themselves as adversaries. What the Pharisees have just heard and seen, they have experienced as a defeat. It is. But instead of accepting it, they feel all the more threatened that they will lose their status among the people. And they absolutely don’t want to lose that. In order to preserve themselves, they seek ways to get rid of God revealed in goodness!

Can hatred go beyond the desire to limit the hand of God, that is stretched out in goodness to men, to a statute and to kill the Son of God for doing good? When the Lord has healed the withered hand, they deliberate about how they can destroy Him. He seeks life, they seek death.

Matthew 12:25

Healing a Withered Hand

After his journey through the fields, the Lord enters their synagogue and another story on the Sabbath follows. The previous one concerns His Person and the authority He has over the Sabbath. This is about His work, the work of mercy, for which the Sabbath is particularly suitable. He shows that the Sabbath is a day of blessing.

In their synagogue is a man with a withered hand. The poor man can’t pick any ears of corn and rub them in his hands because of his withered hand. He cannot make use the blessing of the Sabbath. The man does not ask to be healed, but the Lord knows his unspoken question.

The Pharisees are also present in the synagogue. They are keen observers. They see someone with a handicap and they see Someone Who they know as the Merciful One. In their malicious perceptiveness they rightly assume that the Lord wants to heal the man. In their foolish consideration they believe that this is an excellent opportunity to ask Him a trick question. The Lord lets them ask their question. It gives Him the opportunity to demonstrate His glory and their hypocrisy. In this way they themselves fall into the trap they have set for Him.

They ask Him whether it is lawful to do good and bless on the Sabbath. What a question! The question alone makes it clear how narrow and legalistic they think. This is made even clearer by the example the Lord presents them. It shows that they do not suffer from their conscience on the Sabbath when it is to their own advantage. Then they will make an exception. Healing on the Sabbath, however, does not occur in their thinking and in their rules. They have no rules for it, that is why it is not allowed.

The Lord exposes the folly of legalistic thinking. His conclusion must have been razor-sharp to their ears. Then He turns to the man. He himself has to do something. He must stretch out his hand toward the Lord and take the blessing. He does what the Lord says, and the blessing flows into him. Neither the clear word of the Lord nor His act of healing bring the Pharisees to repentance. On the contrary. The proof of grace makes them go out. They can no longer remain in the presence of so much grace and truth.

When they are outside, outside of the atmosphere where grace is displayed, they start plotting plans of murder. Those who consciously withdraw from the presence of Christ will increasingly reveal themselves as adversaries. What the Pharisees have just heard and seen, they have experienced as a defeat. It is. But instead of accepting it, they feel all the more threatened that they will lose their status among the people. And they absolutely don’t want to lose that. In order to preserve themselves, they seek ways to get rid of God revealed in goodness!

Can hatred go beyond the desire to limit the hand of God, that is stretched out in goodness to men, to a statute and to kill the Son of God for doing good? When the Lord has healed the withered hand, they deliberate about how they can destroy Him. He seeks life, they seek death.

Matthew 12:26

Healing a Withered Hand

After his journey through the fields, the Lord enters their synagogue and another story on the Sabbath follows. The previous one concerns His Person and the authority He has over the Sabbath. This is about His work, the work of mercy, for which the Sabbath is particularly suitable. He shows that the Sabbath is a day of blessing.

In their synagogue is a man with a withered hand. The poor man can’t pick any ears of corn and rub them in his hands because of his withered hand. He cannot make use the blessing of the Sabbath. The man does not ask to be healed, but the Lord knows his unspoken question.

The Pharisees are also present in the synagogue. They are keen observers. They see someone with a handicap and they see Someone Who they know as the Merciful One. In their malicious perceptiveness they rightly assume that the Lord wants to heal the man. In their foolish consideration they believe that this is an excellent opportunity to ask Him a trick question. The Lord lets them ask their question. It gives Him the opportunity to demonstrate His glory and their hypocrisy. In this way they themselves fall into the trap they have set for Him.

They ask Him whether it is lawful to do good and bless on the Sabbath. What a question! The question alone makes it clear how narrow and legalistic they think. This is made even clearer by the example the Lord presents them. It shows that they do not suffer from their conscience on the Sabbath when it is to their own advantage. Then they will make an exception. Healing on the Sabbath, however, does not occur in their thinking and in their rules. They have no rules for it, that is why it is not allowed.

The Lord exposes the folly of legalistic thinking. His conclusion must have been razor-sharp to their ears. Then He turns to the man. He himself has to do something. He must stretch out his hand toward the Lord and take the blessing. He does what the Lord says, and the blessing flows into him. Neither the clear word of the Lord nor His act of healing bring the Pharisees to repentance. On the contrary. The proof of grace makes them go out. They can no longer remain in the presence of so much grace and truth.

When they are outside, outside of the atmosphere where grace is displayed, they start plotting plans of murder. Those who consciously withdraw from the presence of Christ will increasingly reveal themselves as adversaries. What the Pharisees have just heard and seen, they have experienced as a defeat. It is. But instead of accepting it, they feel all the more threatened that they will lose their status among the people. And they absolutely don’t want to lose that. In order to preserve themselves, they seek ways to get rid of God revealed in goodness!

Can hatred go beyond the desire to limit the hand of God, that is stretched out in goodness to men, to a statute and to kill the Son of God for doing good? When the Lord has healed the withered hand, they deliberate about how they can destroy Him. He seeks life, they seek death.

Matthew 12:27

Healing a Withered Hand

After his journey through the fields, the Lord enters their synagogue and another story on the Sabbath follows. The previous one concerns His Person and the authority He has over the Sabbath. This is about His work, the work of mercy, for which the Sabbath is particularly suitable. He shows that the Sabbath is a day of blessing.

In their synagogue is a man with a withered hand. The poor man can’t pick any ears of corn and rub them in his hands because of his withered hand. He cannot make use the blessing of the Sabbath. The man does not ask to be healed, but the Lord knows his unspoken question.

The Pharisees are also present in the synagogue. They are keen observers. They see someone with a handicap and they see Someone Who they know as the Merciful One. In their malicious perceptiveness they rightly assume that the Lord wants to heal the man. In their foolish consideration they believe that this is an excellent opportunity to ask Him a trick question. The Lord lets them ask their question. It gives Him the opportunity to demonstrate His glory and their hypocrisy. In this way they themselves fall into the trap they have set for Him.

They ask Him whether it is lawful to do good and bless on the Sabbath. What a question! The question alone makes it clear how narrow and legalistic they think. This is made even clearer by the example the Lord presents them. It shows that they do not suffer from their conscience on the Sabbath when it is to their own advantage. Then they will make an exception. Healing on the Sabbath, however, does not occur in their thinking and in their rules. They have no rules for it, that is why it is not allowed.

The Lord exposes the folly of legalistic thinking. His conclusion must have been razor-sharp to their ears. Then He turns to the man. He himself has to do something. He must stretch out his hand toward the Lord and take the blessing. He does what the Lord says, and the blessing flows into him. Neither the clear word of the Lord nor His act of healing bring the Pharisees to repentance. On the contrary. The proof of grace makes them go out. They can no longer remain in the presence of so much grace and truth.

When they are outside, outside of the atmosphere where grace is displayed, they start plotting plans of murder. Those who consciously withdraw from the presence of Christ will increasingly reveal themselves as adversaries. What the Pharisees have just heard and seen, they have experienced as a defeat. It is. But instead of accepting it, they feel all the more threatened that they will lose their status among the people. And they absolutely don’t want to lose that. In order to preserve themselves, they seek ways to get rid of God revealed in goodness!

Can hatred go beyond the desire to limit the hand of God, that is stretched out in goodness to men, to a statute and to kill the Son of God for doing good? When the Lord has healed the withered hand, they deliberate about how they can destroy Him. He seeks life, they seek death.

Matthew 12:28

Healing a Withered Hand

After his journey through the fields, the Lord enters their synagogue and another story on the Sabbath follows. The previous one concerns His Person and the authority He has over the Sabbath. This is about His work, the work of mercy, for which the Sabbath is particularly suitable. He shows that the Sabbath is a day of blessing.

In their synagogue is a man with a withered hand. The poor man can’t pick any ears of corn and rub them in his hands because of his withered hand. He cannot make use the blessing of the Sabbath. The man does not ask to be healed, but the Lord knows his unspoken question.

The Pharisees are also present in the synagogue. They are keen observers. They see someone with a handicap and they see Someone Who they know as the Merciful One. In their malicious perceptiveness they rightly assume that the Lord wants to heal the man. In their foolish consideration they believe that this is an excellent opportunity to ask Him a trick question. The Lord lets them ask their question. It gives Him the opportunity to demonstrate His glory and their hypocrisy. In this way they themselves fall into the trap they have set for Him.

They ask Him whether it is lawful to do good and bless on the Sabbath. What a question! The question alone makes it clear how narrow and legalistic they think. This is made even clearer by the example the Lord presents them. It shows that they do not suffer from their conscience on the Sabbath when it is to their own advantage. Then they will make an exception. Healing on the Sabbath, however, does not occur in their thinking and in their rules. They have no rules for it, that is why it is not allowed.

The Lord exposes the folly of legalistic thinking. His conclusion must have been razor-sharp to their ears. Then He turns to the man. He himself has to do something. He must stretch out his hand toward the Lord and take the blessing. He does what the Lord says, and the blessing flows into him. Neither the clear word of the Lord nor His act of healing bring the Pharisees to repentance. On the contrary. The proof of grace makes them go out. They can no longer remain in the presence of so much grace and truth.

When they are outside, outside of the atmosphere where grace is displayed, they start plotting plans of murder. Those who consciously withdraw from the presence of Christ will increasingly reveal themselves as adversaries. What the Pharisees have just heard and seen, they have experienced as a defeat. It is. But instead of accepting it, they feel all the more threatened that they will lose their status among the people. And they absolutely don’t want to lose that. In order to preserve themselves, they seek ways to get rid of God revealed in goodness!

Can hatred go beyond the desire to limit the hand of God, that is stretched out in goodness to men, to a statute and to kill the Son of God for doing good? When the Lord has healed the withered hand, they deliberate about how they can destroy Him. He seeks life, they seek death.

Matthew 12:29

Healing a Withered Hand

After his journey through the fields, the Lord enters their synagogue and another story on the Sabbath follows. The previous one concerns His Person and the authority He has over the Sabbath. This is about His work, the work of mercy, for which the Sabbath is particularly suitable. He shows that the Sabbath is a day of blessing.

In their synagogue is a man with a withered hand. The poor man can’t pick any ears of corn and rub them in his hands because of his withered hand. He cannot make use the blessing of the Sabbath. The man does not ask to be healed, but the Lord knows his unspoken question.

The Pharisees are also present in the synagogue. They are keen observers. They see someone with a handicap and they see Someone Who they know as the Merciful One. In their malicious perceptiveness they rightly assume that the Lord wants to heal the man. In their foolish consideration they believe that this is an excellent opportunity to ask Him a trick question. The Lord lets them ask their question. It gives Him the opportunity to demonstrate His glory and their hypocrisy. In this way they themselves fall into the trap they have set for Him.

They ask Him whether it is lawful to do good and bless on the Sabbath. What a question! The question alone makes it clear how narrow and legalistic they think. This is made even clearer by the example the Lord presents them. It shows that they do not suffer from their conscience on the Sabbath when it is to their own advantage. Then they will make an exception. Healing on the Sabbath, however, does not occur in their thinking and in their rules. They have no rules for it, that is why it is not allowed.

The Lord exposes the folly of legalistic thinking. His conclusion must have been razor-sharp to their ears. Then He turns to the man. He himself has to do something. He must stretch out his hand toward the Lord and take the blessing. He does what the Lord says, and the blessing flows into him. Neither the clear word of the Lord nor His act of healing bring the Pharisees to repentance. On the contrary. The proof of grace makes them go out. They can no longer remain in the presence of so much grace and truth.

When they are outside, outside of the atmosphere where grace is displayed, they start plotting plans of murder. Those who consciously withdraw from the presence of Christ will increasingly reveal themselves as adversaries. What the Pharisees have just heard and seen, they have experienced as a defeat. It is. But instead of accepting it, they feel all the more threatened that they will lose their status among the people. And they absolutely don’t want to lose that. In order to preserve themselves, they seek ways to get rid of God revealed in goodness!

Can hatred go beyond the desire to limit the hand of God, that is stretched out in goodness to men, to a statute and to kill the Son of God for doing good? When the Lord has healed the withered hand, they deliberate about how they can destroy Him. He seeks life, they seek death.

Matthew 12:30

Behold, My Servant

The secret deliberations of the Pharisees are known to the Omniscient. That is why He departs from there. His departure does not go unnoticed. Many crowds follow Him. Toward them, He continues to act in grace and heals all who need healing. He warns them that they will not tell Who He is. He doesn’t want, through His deeds, to win the popularity of the people that Pharisees love so much.

He is always busy before the eye of His Father Who sees in secret. He does not seek honor from people. By acting in this way He fulfils the prophecy of Isaiah who has announced Him as such. The LORD, Yahweh, spoke to Isaiah about His chosen Servant (Isaiah 42:1-4), that is the Lord Jesus. He even calls this Servant “My Beloved”. Between Yahweh and the Servant there is not only a relationship of obedience, but also of love.

The Lord Jesus knows the love the Father has for Him. This makes His service for Him a true joy, even though it is also met with murder plans among the leaders and incomprehension among the crowds. He knows the pleasure that Yahweh has found in Him through His life, which is fully devoted to Him. This has been clear from the outset. Therefore Yahweh put His Spirit upon Him (Matthew 3:16).

Here we see the joy of the triune God: the Father puts His Spirit upon His Son. On the basis of this pleasure and the Spirit which the Father has given him, Christ has the right to proclaim judgment, not only over Israel but over all nations. It points to His dominion over all nations as a result of the rejection by His people.

As far as his conduct at the moment is concerned, it is completely different. He is now still the Man in humiliation. He goes His way in humility, without wanting to cause a stir. He is not crying for attention. It is completely different. He has paid attention to all those who are at the point of breaking or extinguishing.

There is nothing of value in “a battered reed” (Isaiah 36:6). “A battered reed” is reminiscent of the broken heart that has been trampled underfoot by rough handling. But from this battered reed he is able to make a musical instrument or a yardstick for the new Jerusalem (Revelation 21:15). He has come for those who are broken-hearted (Isaiah 61:1). He imposes no iron rod upon them, but grants them the golden scepter of His grace. He Himself is broken or battered (Isaiah 53:5; 10; Genesis 3:15).

“A smoldering wick” hardly gives any light or warmth and is no longer able to light another wick. Often the love in our hearts burns so weakly that only He Who knows all things also knows that there is still a glimmer of love present (John 21:17b).

Here we see His loving care for us now and that may encourage us. If we sometimes feel like a battered reed, only suitable to be completely broken, or we feel that our light is so poorly lit, let us think of His desires for us. We may go to Him to be renewed in grace and restored in strength.

Only when He has fully accomplished His work of humiliation will He not only proclaim the judgment, but also execute it. A perfect victory will be the glorious and perfect result of His work in humiliation. The nations who are spared will hope in His Name. Both the remnant of Israel and the spared nations will recognize that all blessing depends on Him and on their attitude toward Him. This situation will arise when He comes to earth for the second time. Then He does not come in humiliation as the first time, but in power and majesty.

Matthew 12:31

Behold, My Servant

The secret deliberations of the Pharisees are known to the Omniscient. That is why He departs from there. His departure does not go unnoticed. Many crowds follow Him. Toward them, He continues to act in grace and heals all who need healing. He warns them that they will not tell Who He is. He doesn’t want, through His deeds, to win the popularity of the people that Pharisees love so much.

He is always busy before the eye of His Father Who sees in secret. He does not seek honor from people. By acting in this way He fulfils the prophecy of Isaiah who has announced Him as such. The LORD, Yahweh, spoke to Isaiah about His chosen Servant (Isaiah 42:1-4), that is the Lord Jesus. He even calls this Servant “My Beloved”. Between Yahweh and the Servant there is not only a relationship of obedience, but also of love.

The Lord Jesus knows the love the Father has for Him. This makes His service for Him a true joy, even though it is also met with murder plans among the leaders and incomprehension among the crowds. He knows the pleasure that Yahweh has found in Him through His life, which is fully devoted to Him. This has been clear from the outset. Therefore Yahweh put His Spirit upon Him (Matthew 3:16).

Here we see the joy of the triune God: the Father puts His Spirit upon His Son. On the basis of this pleasure and the Spirit which the Father has given him, Christ has the right to proclaim judgment, not only over Israel but over all nations. It points to His dominion over all nations as a result of the rejection by His people.

As far as his conduct at the moment is concerned, it is completely different. He is now still the Man in humiliation. He goes His way in humility, without wanting to cause a stir. He is not crying for attention. It is completely different. He has paid attention to all those who are at the point of breaking or extinguishing.

There is nothing of value in “a battered reed” (Isaiah 36:6). “A battered reed” is reminiscent of the broken heart that has been trampled underfoot by rough handling. But from this battered reed he is able to make a musical instrument or a yardstick for the new Jerusalem (Revelation 21:15). He has come for those who are broken-hearted (Isaiah 61:1). He imposes no iron rod upon them, but grants them the golden scepter of His grace. He Himself is broken or battered (Isaiah 53:5; 10; Genesis 3:15).

“A smoldering wick” hardly gives any light or warmth and is no longer able to light another wick. Often the love in our hearts burns so weakly that only He Who knows all things also knows that there is still a glimmer of love present (John 21:17b).

Here we see His loving care for us now and that may encourage us. If we sometimes feel like a battered reed, only suitable to be completely broken, or we feel that our light is so poorly lit, let us think of His desires for us. We may go to Him to be renewed in grace and restored in strength.

Only when He has fully accomplished His work of humiliation will He not only proclaim the judgment, but also execute it. A perfect victory will be the glorious and perfect result of His work in humiliation. The nations who are spared will hope in His Name. Both the remnant of Israel and the spared nations will recognize that all blessing depends on Him and on their attitude toward Him. This situation will arise when He comes to earth for the second time. Then He does not come in humiliation as the first time, but in power and majesty.

Matthew 12:32

Behold, My Servant

The secret deliberations of the Pharisees are known to the Omniscient. That is why He departs from there. His departure does not go unnoticed. Many crowds follow Him. Toward them, He continues to act in grace and heals all who need healing. He warns them that they will not tell Who He is. He doesn’t want, through His deeds, to win the popularity of the people that Pharisees love so much.

He is always busy before the eye of His Father Who sees in secret. He does not seek honor from people. By acting in this way He fulfils the prophecy of Isaiah who has announced Him as such. The LORD, Yahweh, spoke to Isaiah about His chosen Servant (Isaiah 42:1-4), that is the Lord Jesus. He even calls this Servant “My Beloved”. Between Yahweh and the Servant there is not only a relationship of obedience, but also of love.

The Lord Jesus knows the love the Father has for Him. This makes His service for Him a true joy, even though it is also met with murder plans among the leaders and incomprehension among the crowds. He knows the pleasure that Yahweh has found in Him through His life, which is fully devoted to Him. This has been clear from the outset. Therefore Yahweh put His Spirit upon Him (Matthew 3:16).

Here we see the joy of the triune God: the Father puts His Spirit upon His Son. On the basis of this pleasure and the Spirit which the Father has given him, Christ has the right to proclaim judgment, not only over Israel but over all nations. It points to His dominion over all nations as a result of the rejection by His people.

As far as his conduct at the moment is concerned, it is completely different. He is now still the Man in humiliation. He goes His way in humility, without wanting to cause a stir. He is not crying for attention. It is completely different. He has paid attention to all those who are at the point of breaking or extinguishing.

There is nothing of value in “a battered reed” (Isaiah 36:6). “A battered reed” is reminiscent of the broken heart that has been trampled underfoot by rough handling. But from this battered reed he is able to make a musical instrument or a yardstick for the new Jerusalem (Revelation 21:15). He has come for those who are broken-hearted (Isaiah 61:1). He imposes no iron rod upon them, but grants them the golden scepter of His grace. He Himself is broken or battered (Isaiah 53:5; 10; Genesis 3:15).

“A smoldering wick” hardly gives any light or warmth and is no longer able to light another wick. Often the love in our hearts burns so weakly that only He Who knows all things also knows that there is still a glimmer of love present (John 21:17b).

Here we see His loving care for us now and that may encourage us. If we sometimes feel like a battered reed, only suitable to be completely broken, or we feel that our light is so poorly lit, let us think of His desires for us. We may go to Him to be renewed in grace and restored in strength.

Only when He has fully accomplished His work of humiliation will He not only proclaim the judgment, but also execute it. A perfect victory will be the glorious and perfect result of His work in humiliation. The nations who are spared will hope in His Name. Both the remnant of Israel and the spared nations will recognize that all blessing depends on Him and on their attitude toward Him. This situation will arise when He comes to earth for the second time. Then He does not come in humiliation as the first time, but in power and majesty.

Matthew 12:33

Behold, My Servant

The secret deliberations of the Pharisees are known to the Omniscient. That is why He departs from there. His departure does not go unnoticed. Many crowds follow Him. Toward them, He continues to act in grace and heals all who need healing. He warns them that they will not tell Who He is. He doesn’t want, through His deeds, to win the popularity of the people that Pharisees love so much.

He is always busy before the eye of His Father Who sees in secret. He does not seek honor from people. By acting in this way He fulfils the prophecy of Isaiah who has announced Him as such. The LORD, Yahweh, spoke to Isaiah about His chosen Servant (Isaiah 42:1-4), that is the Lord Jesus. He even calls this Servant “My Beloved”. Between Yahweh and the Servant there is not only a relationship of obedience, but also of love.

The Lord Jesus knows the love the Father has for Him. This makes His service for Him a true joy, even though it is also met with murder plans among the leaders and incomprehension among the crowds. He knows the pleasure that Yahweh has found in Him through His life, which is fully devoted to Him. This has been clear from the outset. Therefore Yahweh put His Spirit upon Him (Matthew 3:16).

Here we see the joy of the triune God: the Father puts His Spirit upon His Son. On the basis of this pleasure and the Spirit which the Father has given him, Christ has the right to proclaim judgment, not only over Israel but over all nations. It points to His dominion over all nations as a result of the rejection by His people.

As far as his conduct at the moment is concerned, it is completely different. He is now still the Man in humiliation. He goes His way in humility, without wanting to cause a stir. He is not crying for attention. It is completely different. He has paid attention to all those who are at the point of breaking or extinguishing.

There is nothing of value in “a battered reed” (Isaiah 36:6). “A battered reed” is reminiscent of the broken heart that has been trampled underfoot by rough handling. But from this battered reed he is able to make a musical instrument or a yardstick for the new Jerusalem (Revelation 21:15). He has come for those who are broken-hearted (Isaiah 61:1). He imposes no iron rod upon them, but grants them the golden scepter of His grace. He Himself is broken or battered (Isaiah 53:5; 10; Genesis 3:15).

“A smoldering wick” hardly gives any light or warmth and is no longer able to light another wick. Often the love in our hearts burns so weakly that only He Who knows all things also knows that there is still a glimmer of love present (John 21:17b).

Here we see His loving care for us now and that may encourage us. If we sometimes feel like a battered reed, only suitable to be completely broken, or we feel that our light is so poorly lit, let us think of His desires for us. We may go to Him to be renewed in grace and restored in strength.

Only when He has fully accomplished His work of humiliation will He not only proclaim the judgment, but also execute it. A perfect victory will be the glorious and perfect result of His work in humiliation. The nations who are spared will hope in His Name. Both the remnant of Israel and the spared nations will recognize that all blessing depends on Him and on their attitude toward Him. This situation will arise when He comes to earth for the second time. Then He does not come in humiliation as the first time, but in power and majesty.

Matthew 12:34

Behold, My Servant

The secret deliberations of the Pharisees are known to the Omniscient. That is why He departs from there. His departure does not go unnoticed. Many crowds follow Him. Toward them, He continues to act in grace and heals all who need healing. He warns them that they will not tell Who He is. He doesn’t want, through His deeds, to win the popularity of the people that Pharisees love so much.

He is always busy before the eye of His Father Who sees in secret. He does not seek honor from people. By acting in this way He fulfils the prophecy of Isaiah who has announced Him as such. The LORD, Yahweh, spoke to Isaiah about His chosen Servant (Isaiah 42:1-4), that is the Lord Jesus. He even calls this Servant “My Beloved”. Between Yahweh and the Servant there is not only a relationship of obedience, but also of love.

The Lord Jesus knows the love the Father has for Him. This makes His service for Him a true joy, even though it is also met with murder plans among the leaders and incomprehension among the crowds. He knows the pleasure that Yahweh has found in Him through His life, which is fully devoted to Him. This has been clear from the outset. Therefore Yahweh put His Spirit upon Him (Matthew 3:16).

Here we see the joy of the triune God: the Father puts His Spirit upon His Son. On the basis of this pleasure and the Spirit which the Father has given him, Christ has the right to proclaim judgment, not only over Israel but over all nations. It points to His dominion over all nations as a result of the rejection by His people.

As far as his conduct at the moment is concerned, it is completely different. He is now still the Man in humiliation. He goes His way in humility, without wanting to cause a stir. He is not crying for attention. It is completely different. He has paid attention to all those who are at the point of breaking or extinguishing.

There is nothing of value in “a battered reed” (Isaiah 36:6). “A battered reed” is reminiscent of the broken heart that has been trampled underfoot by rough handling. But from this battered reed he is able to make a musical instrument or a yardstick for the new Jerusalem (Revelation 21:15). He has come for those who are broken-hearted (Isaiah 61:1). He imposes no iron rod upon them, but grants them the golden scepter of His grace. He Himself is broken or battered (Isaiah 53:5; 10; Genesis 3:15).

“A smoldering wick” hardly gives any light or warmth and is no longer able to light another wick. Often the love in our hearts burns so weakly that only He Who knows all things also knows that there is still a glimmer of love present (John 21:17b).

Here we see His loving care for us now and that may encourage us. If we sometimes feel like a battered reed, only suitable to be completely broken, or we feel that our light is so poorly lit, let us think of His desires for us. We may go to Him to be renewed in grace and restored in strength.

Only when He has fully accomplished His work of humiliation will He not only proclaim the judgment, but also execute it. A perfect victory will be the glorious and perfect result of His work in humiliation. The nations who are spared will hope in His Name. Both the remnant of Israel and the spared nations will recognize that all blessing depends on Him and on their attitude toward Him. This situation will arise when He comes to earth for the second time. Then He does not come in humiliation as the first time, but in power and majesty.

Matthew 12:35

Behold, My Servant

The secret deliberations of the Pharisees are known to the Omniscient. That is why He departs from there. His departure does not go unnoticed. Many crowds follow Him. Toward them, He continues to act in grace and heals all who need healing. He warns them that they will not tell Who He is. He doesn’t want, through His deeds, to win the popularity of the people that Pharisees love so much.

He is always busy before the eye of His Father Who sees in secret. He does not seek honor from people. By acting in this way He fulfils the prophecy of Isaiah who has announced Him as such. The LORD, Yahweh, spoke to Isaiah about His chosen Servant (Isaiah 42:1-4), that is the Lord Jesus. He even calls this Servant “My Beloved”. Between Yahweh and the Servant there is not only a relationship of obedience, but also of love.

The Lord Jesus knows the love the Father has for Him. This makes His service for Him a true joy, even though it is also met with murder plans among the leaders and incomprehension among the crowds. He knows the pleasure that Yahweh has found in Him through His life, which is fully devoted to Him. This has been clear from the outset. Therefore Yahweh put His Spirit upon Him (Matthew 3:16).

Here we see the joy of the triune God: the Father puts His Spirit upon His Son. On the basis of this pleasure and the Spirit which the Father has given him, Christ has the right to proclaim judgment, not only over Israel but over all nations. It points to His dominion over all nations as a result of the rejection by His people.

As far as his conduct at the moment is concerned, it is completely different. He is now still the Man in humiliation. He goes His way in humility, without wanting to cause a stir. He is not crying for attention. It is completely different. He has paid attention to all those who are at the point of breaking or extinguishing.

There is nothing of value in “a battered reed” (Isaiah 36:6). “A battered reed” is reminiscent of the broken heart that has been trampled underfoot by rough handling. But from this battered reed he is able to make a musical instrument or a yardstick for the new Jerusalem (Revelation 21:15). He has come for those who are broken-hearted (Isaiah 61:1). He imposes no iron rod upon them, but grants them the golden scepter of His grace. He Himself is broken or battered (Isaiah 53:5; 10; Genesis 3:15).

“A smoldering wick” hardly gives any light or warmth and is no longer able to light another wick. Often the love in our hearts burns so weakly that only He Who knows all things also knows that there is still a glimmer of love present (John 21:17b).

Here we see His loving care for us now and that may encourage us. If we sometimes feel like a battered reed, only suitable to be completely broken, or we feel that our light is so poorly lit, let us think of His desires for us. We may go to Him to be renewed in grace and restored in strength.

Only when He has fully accomplished His work of humiliation will He not only proclaim the judgment, but also execute it. A perfect victory will be the glorious and perfect result of His work in humiliation. The nations who are spared will hope in His Name. Both the remnant of Israel and the spared nations will recognize that all blessing depends on Him and on their attitude toward Him. This situation will arise when He comes to earth for the second time. Then He does not come in humiliation as the first time, but in power and majesty.

Matthew 12:36

Behold, My Servant

The secret deliberations of the Pharisees are known to the Omniscient. That is why He departs from there. His departure does not go unnoticed. Many crowds follow Him. Toward them, He continues to act in grace and heals all who need healing. He warns them that they will not tell Who He is. He doesn’t want, through His deeds, to win the popularity of the people that Pharisees love so much.

He is always busy before the eye of His Father Who sees in secret. He does not seek honor from people. By acting in this way He fulfils the prophecy of Isaiah who has announced Him as such. The LORD, Yahweh, spoke to Isaiah about His chosen Servant (Isaiah 42:1-4), that is the Lord Jesus. He even calls this Servant “My Beloved”. Between Yahweh and the Servant there is not only a relationship of obedience, but also of love.

The Lord Jesus knows the love the Father has for Him. This makes His service for Him a true joy, even though it is also met with murder plans among the leaders and incomprehension among the crowds. He knows the pleasure that Yahweh has found in Him through His life, which is fully devoted to Him. This has been clear from the outset. Therefore Yahweh put His Spirit upon Him (Matthew 3:16).

Here we see the joy of the triune God: the Father puts His Spirit upon His Son. On the basis of this pleasure and the Spirit which the Father has given him, Christ has the right to proclaim judgment, not only over Israel but over all nations. It points to His dominion over all nations as a result of the rejection by His people.

As far as his conduct at the moment is concerned, it is completely different. He is now still the Man in humiliation. He goes His way in humility, without wanting to cause a stir. He is not crying for attention. It is completely different. He has paid attention to all those who are at the point of breaking or extinguishing.

There is nothing of value in “a battered reed” (Isaiah 36:6). “A battered reed” is reminiscent of the broken heart that has been trampled underfoot by rough handling. But from this battered reed he is able to make a musical instrument or a yardstick for the new Jerusalem (Revelation 21:15). He has come for those who are broken-hearted (Isaiah 61:1). He imposes no iron rod upon them, but grants them the golden scepter of His grace. He Himself is broken or battered (Isaiah 53:5; 10; Genesis 3:15).

“A smoldering wick” hardly gives any light or warmth and is no longer able to light another wick. Often the love in our hearts burns so weakly that only He Who knows all things also knows that there is still a glimmer of love present (John 21:17b).

Here we see His loving care for us now and that may encourage us. If we sometimes feel like a battered reed, only suitable to be completely broken, or we feel that our light is so poorly lit, let us think of His desires for us. We may go to Him to be renewed in grace and restored in strength.

Only when He has fully accomplished His work of humiliation will He not only proclaim the judgment, but also execute it. A perfect victory will be the glorious and perfect result of His work in humiliation. The nations who are spared will hope in His Name. Both the remnant of Israel and the spared nations will recognize that all blessing depends on Him and on their attitude toward Him. This situation will arise when He comes to earth for the second time. Then He does not come in humiliation as the first time, but in power and majesty.

Matthew 12:37

The Lord Jesus and Beelzebul

The man brought to the Lord is miserable. He is demon-possessed. This demon has him in his power to the extent that he sees nothing and cannot say anything. He does not know where he is and cannot call for help. Fortunately, the Lord is there with His mercy, and there are people who bring the man to Him. He answers their faith with healing. In this man we can see a picture of the situation in which Israel finds itself. As a whole, the nation is blind to the glory of Christ and does not come to Him to confess Him as their Messiah.

The crowds are deeply impressed by this healing. They even express the suspicion that He may be the Son of David. They don’t go any further, their hearts haven’t truly been touched. When the Pharisees hear this statement, they want to prevent the crowds from even thinking in that direction. They want to nip this suspicion in the bud and accuse the Lord in the most blasphemous way possible.

There is no coarser and more offensive accusation imaginable than to accuse Him of performing His miracles of grace in the power of the ruler of demons, that is satan himself. At the same time it makes clear the complete unwillingness of the Pharisees to see anything of God in Him. It is impossible to deny that God is at work in Christ among His people in goodness and grace. For them it is not a matter of error, but the denial of the undeniable. They resist against their better judgment. Knowingly and willingly they reject Him.

The Lord has not responded to a similar, previous blasphemy (Matthew 9:34). Now he deals with it. With an example from daily life He appeals to the sober mind and thus proves the total absurdity of their statement. He shows with His argument that they have no understanding. Every right-minded person knows that it is impossible to maintain something that is internally divided, regardless of whether it is a kingdom or a house. Inner division means downfall and no success. The conclusion is clear. It is impossible for Him to drive out the demons through Beelzebul.

He gives a second argument for their nonsensical claim. He states that argument as a question. Their sons are busy casting out demons. If they are consistent, they should say that their sons also do it through satan. Of course they will never want to say that. Well, says the Lord, then your sons will be your judges. The conduct of their sons will denounce their blasphemy, and will be a witness that they have blasphemed Him.

Matthew 12:38

The Lord Jesus and Beelzebul

The man brought to the Lord is miserable. He is demon-possessed. This demon has him in his power to the extent that he sees nothing and cannot say anything. He does not know where he is and cannot call for help. Fortunately, the Lord is there with His mercy, and there are people who bring the man to Him. He answers their faith with healing. In this man we can see a picture of the situation in which Israel finds itself. As a whole, the nation is blind to the glory of Christ and does not come to Him to confess Him as their Messiah.

The crowds are deeply impressed by this healing. They even express the suspicion that He may be the Son of David. They don’t go any further, their hearts haven’t truly been touched. When the Pharisees hear this statement, they want to prevent the crowds from even thinking in that direction. They want to nip this suspicion in the bud and accuse the Lord in the most blasphemous way possible.

There is no coarser and more offensive accusation imaginable than to accuse Him of performing His miracles of grace in the power of the ruler of demons, that is satan himself. At the same time it makes clear the complete unwillingness of the Pharisees to see anything of God in Him. It is impossible to deny that God is at work in Christ among His people in goodness and grace. For them it is not a matter of error, but the denial of the undeniable. They resist against their better judgment. Knowingly and willingly they reject Him.

The Lord has not responded to a similar, previous blasphemy (Matthew 9:34). Now he deals with it. With an example from daily life He appeals to the sober mind and thus proves the total absurdity of their statement. He shows with His argument that they have no understanding. Every right-minded person knows that it is impossible to maintain something that is internally divided, regardless of whether it is a kingdom or a house. Inner division means downfall and no success. The conclusion is clear. It is impossible for Him to drive out the demons through Beelzebul.

He gives a second argument for their nonsensical claim. He states that argument as a question. Their sons are busy casting out demons. If they are consistent, they should say that their sons also do it through satan. Of course they will never want to say that. Well, says the Lord, then your sons will be your judges. The conduct of their sons will denounce their blasphemy, and will be a witness that they have blasphemed Him.

Matthew 12:39

The Lord Jesus and Beelzebul

The man brought to the Lord is miserable. He is demon-possessed. This demon has him in his power to the extent that he sees nothing and cannot say anything. He does not know where he is and cannot call for help. Fortunately, the Lord is there with His mercy, and there are people who bring the man to Him. He answers their faith with healing. In this man we can see a picture of the situation in which Israel finds itself. As a whole, the nation is blind to the glory of Christ and does not come to Him to confess Him as their Messiah.

The crowds are deeply impressed by this healing. They even express the suspicion that He may be the Son of David. They don’t go any further, their hearts haven’t truly been touched. When the Pharisees hear this statement, they want to prevent the crowds from even thinking in that direction. They want to nip this suspicion in the bud and accuse the Lord in the most blasphemous way possible.

There is no coarser and more offensive accusation imaginable than to accuse Him of performing His miracles of grace in the power of the ruler of demons, that is satan himself. At the same time it makes clear the complete unwillingness of the Pharisees to see anything of God in Him. It is impossible to deny that God is at work in Christ among His people in goodness and grace. For them it is not a matter of error, but the denial of the undeniable. They resist against their better judgment. Knowingly and willingly they reject Him.

The Lord has not responded to a similar, previous blasphemy (Matthew 9:34). Now he deals with it. With an example from daily life He appeals to the sober mind and thus proves the total absurdity of their statement. He shows with His argument that they have no understanding. Every right-minded person knows that it is impossible to maintain something that is internally divided, regardless of whether it is a kingdom or a house. Inner division means downfall and no success. The conclusion is clear. It is impossible for Him to drive out the demons through Beelzebul.

He gives a second argument for their nonsensical claim. He states that argument as a question. Their sons are busy casting out demons. If they are consistent, they should say that their sons also do it through satan. Of course they will never want to say that. Well, says the Lord, then your sons will be your judges. The conduct of their sons will denounce their blasphemy, and will be a witness that they have blasphemed Him.

Matthew 12:40

The Lord Jesus and Beelzebul

The man brought to the Lord is miserable. He is demon-possessed. This demon has him in his power to the extent that he sees nothing and cannot say anything. He does not know where he is and cannot call for help. Fortunately, the Lord is there with His mercy, and there are people who bring the man to Him. He answers their faith with healing. In this man we can see a picture of the situation in which Israel finds itself. As a whole, the nation is blind to the glory of Christ and does not come to Him to confess Him as their Messiah.

The crowds are deeply impressed by this healing. They even express the suspicion that He may be the Son of David. They don’t go any further, their hearts haven’t truly been touched. When the Pharisees hear this statement, they want to prevent the crowds from even thinking in that direction. They want to nip this suspicion in the bud and accuse the Lord in the most blasphemous way possible.

There is no coarser and more offensive accusation imaginable than to accuse Him of performing His miracles of grace in the power of the ruler of demons, that is satan himself. At the same time it makes clear the complete unwillingness of the Pharisees to see anything of God in Him. It is impossible to deny that God is at work in Christ among His people in goodness and grace. For them it is not a matter of error, but the denial of the undeniable. They resist against their better judgment. Knowingly and willingly they reject Him.

The Lord has not responded to a similar, previous blasphemy (Matthew 9:34). Now he deals with it. With an example from daily life He appeals to the sober mind and thus proves the total absurdity of their statement. He shows with His argument that they have no understanding. Every right-minded person knows that it is impossible to maintain something that is internally divided, regardless of whether it is a kingdom or a house. Inner division means downfall and no success. The conclusion is clear. It is impossible for Him to drive out the demons through Beelzebul.

He gives a second argument for their nonsensical claim. He states that argument as a question. Their sons are busy casting out demons. If they are consistent, they should say that their sons also do it through satan. Of course they will never want to say that. Well, says the Lord, then your sons will be your judges. The conduct of their sons will denounce their blasphemy, and will be a witness that they have blasphemed Him.

Matthew 12:41

The Lord Jesus and Beelzebul

The man brought to the Lord is miserable. He is demon-possessed. This demon has him in his power to the extent that he sees nothing and cannot say anything. He does not know where he is and cannot call for help. Fortunately, the Lord is there with His mercy, and there are people who bring the man to Him. He answers their faith with healing. In this man we can see a picture of the situation in which Israel finds itself. As a whole, the nation is blind to the glory of Christ and does not come to Him to confess Him as their Messiah.

The crowds are deeply impressed by this healing. They even express the suspicion that He may be the Son of David. They don’t go any further, their hearts haven’t truly been touched. When the Pharisees hear this statement, they want to prevent the crowds from even thinking in that direction. They want to nip this suspicion in the bud and accuse the Lord in the most blasphemous way possible.

There is no coarser and more offensive accusation imaginable than to accuse Him of performing His miracles of grace in the power of the ruler of demons, that is satan himself. At the same time it makes clear the complete unwillingness of the Pharisees to see anything of God in Him. It is impossible to deny that God is at work in Christ among His people in goodness and grace. For them it is not a matter of error, but the denial of the undeniable. They resist against their better judgment. Knowingly and willingly they reject Him.

The Lord has not responded to a similar, previous blasphemy (Matthew 9:34). Now he deals with it. With an example from daily life He appeals to the sober mind and thus proves the total absurdity of their statement. He shows with His argument that they have no understanding. Every right-minded person knows that it is impossible to maintain something that is internally divided, regardless of whether it is a kingdom or a house. Inner division means downfall and no success. The conclusion is clear. It is impossible for Him to drive out the demons through Beelzebul.

He gives a second argument for their nonsensical claim. He states that argument as a question. Their sons are busy casting out demons. If they are consistent, they should say that their sons also do it through satan. Of course they will never want to say that. Well, says the Lord, then your sons will be your judges. The conduct of their sons will denounce their blasphemy, and will be a witness that they have blasphemed Him.

Matthew 12:42

The Lord Jesus and Beelzebul

The man brought to the Lord is miserable. He is demon-possessed. This demon has him in his power to the extent that he sees nothing and cannot say anything. He does not know where he is and cannot call for help. Fortunately, the Lord is there with His mercy, and there are people who bring the man to Him. He answers their faith with healing. In this man we can see a picture of the situation in which Israel finds itself. As a whole, the nation is blind to the glory of Christ and does not come to Him to confess Him as their Messiah.

The crowds are deeply impressed by this healing. They even express the suspicion that He may be the Son of David. They don’t go any further, their hearts haven’t truly been touched. When the Pharisees hear this statement, they want to prevent the crowds from even thinking in that direction. They want to nip this suspicion in the bud and accuse the Lord in the most blasphemous way possible.

There is no coarser and more offensive accusation imaginable than to accuse Him of performing His miracles of grace in the power of the ruler of demons, that is satan himself. At the same time it makes clear the complete unwillingness of the Pharisees to see anything of God in Him. It is impossible to deny that God is at work in Christ among His people in goodness and grace. For them it is not a matter of error, but the denial of the undeniable. They resist against their better judgment. Knowingly and willingly they reject Him.

The Lord has not responded to a similar, previous blasphemy (Matthew 9:34). Now he deals with it. With an example from daily life He appeals to the sober mind and thus proves the total absurdity of their statement. He shows with His argument that they have no understanding. Every right-minded person knows that it is impossible to maintain something that is internally divided, regardless of whether it is a kingdom or a house. Inner division means downfall and no success. The conclusion is clear. It is impossible for Him to drive out the demons through Beelzebul.

He gives a second argument for their nonsensical claim. He states that argument as a question. Their sons are busy casting out demons. If they are consistent, they should say that their sons also do it through satan. Of course they will never want to say that. Well, says the Lord, then your sons will be your judges. The conduct of their sons will denounce their blasphemy, and will be a witness that they have blasphemed Him.

Matthew 12:43

Blasphemy Against the Spirit

The Lord tells them the true origin of His actions. He acts through the Spirit of God. This means that the kingdom of God has come to them. Of course they do not want to acknowledge that, but the fact remains. In Christ God is busy establishing His kingdom. Therefore He goes into the house of the strong, that is the devil, and robs him of his household goods, that is people who find themselves in his power. The Lord bound the strong man when He defeated him in the wilderness with God’s Word (Matthew 4:1-11). Then He went through the land, doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil (Acts 10:38). On the cross He will bruise the devil’s head.

With regard to His performance against the kingdom of satan and the plunder of his house, one can only be a follower or an opponent. Neutrality is impossible. He who does not put himself unambiguously by His side, is against Him. He is busy gathering for the kingdom of heaven. He who is not engaged with Him in this, is engaged in the opposite, the scattering, and reveals himself as an opponent of the kingdom.

The seriousness of the sin of the Pharisees is so great because they know that the Lord is good and works through the Holy Spirit, but despite all the evidence attribute His work to satan. They are thus guilty of the unforgivable sin of “the blasphemy against the Spirit”. This sin is different from any other sin. For any other sin, forgiveness is possible. Even those who resist the Lord Jesus as the Son of Man can count on forgiveness if that sin is confessed.

Every sin that a man does is a sin against the triune God, so against the Father as well as against the Son and the Holy Spirit. What makes the blasphemy against the Spirit so special? This sin is special because it is about the expression of the Spirit in the Person of Christ on earth. It is impossible to inadvertently attribute something Christ does to satan. Whoever says of the Holy Spirit, Who is expressed perfectly in Christ, He is satan, does so consciously.

What Christ does is always perfect through the Spirit. He is the Sinless One. In His whole life and His whole being there is nothing of sin or the sinful flesh present. Everything is pure by the Spirit. Someone can be blind to the glory of the Lord Jesus. But if anyone consciously attributes His actions, which He does through the Spirit, to satan there is a hardening of a heart that lives in rebellion against Him and that absolutely does not want to bow before Him.

The fact that the blasphemy against the Spirit is specifically to do with Christ, and then also with His personal presence on earth, is apparent from the words that this sin is not forgiven “either in this age or in the [age] to come”. In both cases, this age and the age to come, it is a period that Christ is on earth. This is so at His first coming and His second coming. Therefore it is not possible to commit this sin now, in the present time when the Lord Jesus is not on earth.

Matthew 12:44

Blasphemy Against the Spirit

The Lord tells them the true origin of His actions. He acts through the Spirit of God. This means that the kingdom of God has come to them. Of course they do not want to acknowledge that, but the fact remains. In Christ God is busy establishing His kingdom. Therefore He goes into the house of the strong, that is the devil, and robs him of his household goods, that is people who find themselves in his power. The Lord bound the strong man when He defeated him in the wilderness with God’s Word (Matthew 4:1-11). Then He went through the land, doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil (Acts 10:38). On the cross He will bruise the devil’s head.

With regard to His performance against the kingdom of satan and the plunder of his house, one can only be a follower or an opponent. Neutrality is impossible. He who does not put himself unambiguously by His side, is against Him. He is busy gathering for the kingdom of heaven. He who is not engaged with Him in this, is engaged in the opposite, the scattering, and reveals himself as an opponent of the kingdom.

The seriousness of the sin of the Pharisees is so great because they know that the Lord is good and works through the Holy Spirit, but despite all the evidence attribute His work to satan. They are thus guilty of the unforgivable sin of “the blasphemy against the Spirit”. This sin is different from any other sin. For any other sin, forgiveness is possible. Even those who resist the Lord Jesus as the Son of Man can count on forgiveness if that sin is confessed.

Every sin that a man does is a sin against the triune God, so against the Father as well as against the Son and the Holy Spirit. What makes the blasphemy against the Spirit so special? This sin is special because it is about the expression of the Spirit in the Person of Christ on earth. It is impossible to inadvertently attribute something Christ does to satan. Whoever says of the Holy Spirit, Who is expressed perfectly in Christ, He is satan, does so consciously.

What Christ does is always perfect through the Spirit. He is the Sinless One. In His whole life and His whole being there is nothing of sin or the sinful flesh present. Everything is pure by the Spirit. Someone can be blind to the glory of the Lord Jesus. But if anyone consciously attributes His actions, which He does through the Spirit, to satan there is a hardening of a heart that lives in rebellion against Him and that absolutely does not want to bow before Him.

The fact that the blasphemy against the Spirit is specifically to do with Christ, and then also with His personal presence on earth, is apparent from the words that this sin is not forgiven “either in this age or in the [age] to come”. In both cases, this age and the age to come, it is a period that Christ is on earth. This is so at His first coming and His second coming. Therefore it is not possible to commit this sin now, in the present time when the Lord Jesus is not on earth.

Matthew 12:45

Blasphemy Against the Spirit

The Lord tells them the true origin of His actions. He acts through the Spirit of God. This means that the kingdom of God has come to them. Of course they do not want to acknowledge that, but the fact remains. In Christ God is busy establishing His kingdom. Therefore He goes into the house of the strong, that is the devil, and robs him of his household goods, that is people who find themselves in his power. The Lord bound the strong man when He defeated him in the wilderness with God’s Word (Matthew 4:1-11). Then He went through the land, doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil (Acts 10:38). On the cross He will bruise the devil’s head.

With regard to His performance against the kingdom of satan and the plunder of his house, one can only be a follower or an opponent. Neutrality is impossible. He who does not put himself unambiguously by His side, is against Him. He is busy gathering for the kingdom of heaven. He who is not engaged with Him in this, is engaged in the opposite, the scattering, and reveals himself as an opponent of the kingdom.

The seriousness of the sin of the Pharisees is so great because they know that the Lord is good and works through the Holy Spirit, but despite all the evidence attribute His work to satan. They are thus guilty of the unforgivable sin of “the blasphemy against the Spirit”. This sin is different from any other sin. For any other sin, forgiveness is possible. Even those who resist the Lord Jesus as the Son of Man can count on forgiveness if that sin is confessed.

Every sin that a man does is a sin against the triune God, so against the Father as well as against the Son and the Holy Spirit. What makes the blasphemy against the Spirit so special? This sin is special because it is about the expression of the Spirit in the Person of Christ on earth. It is impossible to inadvertently attribute something Christ does to satan. Whoever says of the Holy Spirit, Who is expressed perfectly in Christ, He is satan, does so consciously.

What Christ does is always perfect through the Spirit. He is the Sinless One. In His whole life and His whole being there is nothing of sin or the sinful flesh present. Everything is pure by the Spirit. Someone can be blind to the glory of the Lord Jesus. But if anyone consciously attributes His actions, which He does through the Spirit, to satan there is a hardening of a heart that lives in rebellion against Him and that absolutely does not want to bow before Him.

The fact that the blasphemy against the Spirit is specifically to do with Christ, and then also with His personal presence on earth, is apparent from the words that this sin is not forgiven “either in this age or in the [age] to come”. In both cases, this age and the age to come, it is a period that Christ is on earth. This is so at His first coming and His second coming. Therefore it is not possible to commit this sin now, in the present time when the Lord Jesus is not on earth.

Matthew 12:46

Blasphemy Against the Spirit

The Lord tells them the true origin of His actions. He acts through the Spirit of God. This means that the kingdom of God has come to them. Of course they do not want to acknowledge that, but the fact remains. In Christ God is busy establishing His kingdom. Therefore He goes into the house of the strong, that is the devil, and robs him of his household goods, that is people who find themselves in his power. The Lord bound the strong man when He defeated him in the wilderness with God’s Word (Matthew 4:1-11). Then He went through the land, doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil (Acts 10:38). On the cross He will bruise the devil’s head.

With regard to His performance against the kingdom of satan and the plunder of his house, one can only be a follower or an opponent. Neutrality is impossible. He who does not put himself unambiguously by His side, is against Him. He is busy gathering for the kingdom of heaven. He who is not engaged with Him in this, is engaged in the opposite, the scattering, and reveals himself as an opponent of the kingdom.

The seriousness of the sin of the Pharisees is so great because they know that the Lord is good and works through the Holy Spirit, but despite all the evidence attribute His work to satan. They are thus guilty of the unforgivable sin of “the blasphemy against the Spirit”. This sin is different from any other sin. For any other sin, forgiveness is possible. Even those who resist the Lord Jesus as the Son of Man can count on forgiveness if that sin is confessed.

Every sin that a man does is a sin against the triune God, so against the Father as well as against the Son and the Holy Spirit. What makes the blasphemy against the Spirit so special? This sin is special because it is about the expression of the Spirit in the Person of Christ on earth. It is impossible to inadvertently attribute something Christ does to satan. Whoever says of the Holy Spirit, Who is expressed perfectly in Christ, He is satan, does so consciously.

What Christ does is always perfect through the Spirit. He is the Sinless One. In His whole life and His whole being there is nothing of sin or the sinful flesh present. Everything is pure by the Spirit. Someone can be blind to the glory of the Lord Jesus. But if anyone consciously attributes His actions, which He does through the Spirit, to satan there is a hardening of a heart that lives in rebellion against Him and that absolutely does not want to bow before Him.

The fact that the blasphemy against the Spirit is specifically to do with Christ, and then also with His personal presence on earth, is apparent from the words that this sin is not forgiven “either in this age or in the [age] to come”. In both cases, this age and the age to come, it is a period that Christ is on earth. This is so at His first coming and His second coming. Therefore it is not possible to commit this sin now, in the present time when the Lord Jesus is not on earth.

Matthew 12:47

Blasphemy Against the Spirit

The Lord tells them the true origin of His actions. He acts through the Spirit of God. This means that the kingdom of God has come to them. Of course they do not want to acknowledge that, but the fact remains. In Christ God is busy establishing His kingdom. Therefore He goes into the house of the strong, that is the devil, and robs him of his household goods, that is people who find themselves in his power. The Lord bound the strong man when He defeated him in the wilderness with God’s Word (Matthew 4:1-11). Then He went through the land, doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil (Acts 10:38). On the cross He will bruise the devil’s head.

With regard to His performance against the kingdom of satan and the plunder of his house, one can only be a follower or an opponent. Neutrality is impossible. He who does not put himself unambiguously by His side, is against Him. He is busy gathering for the kingdom of heaven. He who is not engaged with Him in this, is engaged in the opposite, the scattering, and reveals himself as an opponent of the kingdom.

The seriousness of the sin of the Pharisees is so great because they know that the Lord is good and works through the Holy Spirit, but despite all the evidence attribute His work to satan. They are thus guilty of the unforgivable sin of “the blasphemy against the Spirit”. This sin is different from any other sin. For any other sin, forgiveness is possible. Even those who resist the Lord Jesus as the Son of Man can count on forgiveness if that sin is confessed.

Every sin that a man does is a sin against the triune God, so against the Father as well as against the Son and the Holy Spirit. What makes the blasphemy against the Spirit so special? This sin is special because it is about the expression of the Spirit in the Person of Christ on earth. It is impossible to inadvertently attribute something Christ does to satan. Whoever says of the Holy Spirit, Who is expressed perfectly in Christ, He is satan, does so consciously.

What Christ does is always perfect through the Spirit. He is the Sinless One. In His whole life and His whole being there is nothing of sin or the sinful flesh present. Everything is pure by the Spirit. Someone can be blind to the glory of the Lord Jesus. But if anyone consciously attributes His actions, which He does through the Spirit, to satan there is a hardening of a heart that lives in rebellion against Him and that absolutely does not want to bow before Him.

The fact that the blasphemy against the Spirit is specifically to do with Christ, and then also with His personal presence on earth, is apparent from the words that this sin is not forgiven “either in this age or in the [age] to come”. In both cases, this age and the age to come, it is a period that Christ is on earth. This is so at His first coming and His second coming. Therefore it is not possible to commit this sin now, in the present time when the Lord Jesus is not on earth.

Matthew 12:48

The Tree and Its Fruit

The Lord takes an example from nature. Everyone knows that a good tree only produces good fruit. But if a tree is bad, it cannot produce good fruit, but only bad fruit. The tree produces fruit in accordance with its nature. The Pharisees are a bad tree. They are a “brood of vipers” (Matthew 12:34; Matthew 3:7; Matthew 23:33), that is, they are bred by satan. They are children of the devil; the devil is their father (John 8:44; 1 John 3:8a). It is therefore impossible for them to speak good things. They bring forth bad fruit, in accordance with the bad tree that they are. In their hearts is an abundance of corruption and that comes out of their mouths.

The Lord further applies the general principle of the tree and its fruit to man. The good man is the man who through repentance and faith has new life and in whom the Holy Spirit dwells. That good man brings forth good things from the treasure of new life and the Holy Spirit, such as life and peace (Romans 8:6). The evil man is full of the flesh and of himself. He brings forth from the evil treasure of the flesh the works of the flesh (Galatians 5:19-21).

Words are not value-free, because they are connected to the heart. Words express what is in man. The Lord Jesus is the Word of God, that is, the perfect expression of Who God is. He has always only spoken what the Father told Him to speak (John 12:50). He has never spoken a meaningless word. Believers sometimes speak meaningless words, words without use and meaning. This is particularly true for what is called speaking in tongues. That shows how we are inside. We must also confess that.

Unbelievers do not at all wonder what God wants them to say. They speak meaningless words. They will have to account for this in the day of judgment, before the great white throne, before Him Who sits on the throne, that is Christ (Revelation 20:11-12). They will not be able to avoid it by saying, for example, that they meant it all slightly differently, because He perfectly knows the motives that governed the heart when those words were spoken.

The words of the mouth reveal the condition of the heart. Words give expression to feelings and show us who someone is, just as their behavior shows it in a different way. Words are so important that every human being will be justified or condemned on the basis of his words (cf. Romans 10:9-10). The Lord will make a complete statement about the use of words because He knows the source from which they come.

Matthew 12:49

The Tree and Its Fruit

The Lord takes an example from nature. Everyone knows that a good tree only produces good fruit. But if a tree is bad, it cannot produce good fruit, but only bad fruit. The tree produces fruit in accordance with its nature. The Pharisees are a bad tree. They are a “brood of vipers” (Matthew 12:34; Matthew 3:7; Matthew 23:33), that is, they are bred by satan. They are children of the devil; the devil is their father (John 8:44; 1 John 3:8a). It is therefore impossible for them to speak good things. They bring forth bad fruit, in accordance with the bad tree that they are. In their hearts is an abundance of corruption and that comes out of their mouths.

The Lord further applies the general principle of the tree and its fruit to man. The good man is the man who through repentance and faith has new life and in whom the Holy Spirit dwells. That good man brings forth good things from the treasure of new life and the Holy Spirit, such as life and peace (Romans 8:6). The evil man is full of the flesh and of himself. He brings forth from the evil treasure of the flesh the works of the flesh (Galatians 5:19-21).

Words are not value-free, because they are connected to the heart. Words express what is in man. The Lord Jesus is the Word of God, that is, the perfect expression of Who God is. He has always only spoken what the Father told Him to speak (John 12:50). He has never spoken a meaningless word. Believers sometimes speak meaningless words, words without use and meaning. This is particularly true for what is called speaking in tongues. That shows how we are inside. We must also confess that.

Unbelievers do not at all wonder what God wants them to say. They speak meaningless words. They will have to account for this in the day of judgment, before the great white throne, before Him Who sits on the throne, that is Christ (Revelation 20:11-12). They will not be able to avoid it by saying, for example, that they meant it all slightly differently, because He perfectly knows the motives that governed the heart when those words were spoken.

The words of the mouth reveal the condition of the heart. Words give expression to feelings and show us who someone is, just as their behavior shows it in a different way. Words are so important that every human being will be justified or condemned on the basis of his words (cf. Romans 10:9-10). The Lord will make a complete statement about the use of words because He knows the source from which they come.

Matthew 12:50

The Tree and Its Fruit

The Lord takes an example from nature. Everyone knows that a good tree only produces good fruit. But if a tree is bad, it cannot produce good fruit, but only bad fruit. The tree produces fruit in accordance with its nature. The Pharisees are a bad tree. They are a “brood of vipers” (Matthew 12:34; Matthew 3:7; Matthew 23:33), that is, they are bred by satan. They are children of the devil; the devil is their father (John 8:44; 1 John 3:8a). It is therefore impossible for them to speak good things. They bring forth bad fruit, in accordance with the bad tree that they are. In their hearts is an abundance of corruption and that comes out of their mouths.

The Lord further applies the general principle of the tree and its fruit to man. The good man is the man who through repentance and faith has new life and in whom the Holy Spirit dwells. That good man brings forth good things from the treasure of new life and the Holy Spirit, such as life and peace (Romans 8:6). The evil man is full of the flesh and of himself. He brings forth from the evil treasure of the flesh the works of the flesh (Galatians 5:19-21).

Words are not value-free, because they are connected to the heart. Words express what is in man. The Lord Jesus is the Word of God, that is, the perfect expression of Who God is. He has always only spoken what the Father told Him to speak (John 12:50). He has never spoken a meaningless word. Believers sometimes speak meaningless words, words without use and meaning. This is particularly true for what is called speaking in tongues. That shows how we are inside. We must also confess that.

Unbelievers do not at all wonder what God wants them to say. They speak meaningless words. They will have to account for this in the day of judgment, before the great white throne, before Him Who sits on the throne, that is Christ (Revelation 20:11-12). They will not be able to avoid it by saying, for example, that they meant it all slightly differently, because He perfectly knows the motives that governed the heart when those words were spoken.

The words of the mouth reveal the condition of the heart. Words give expression to feelings and show us who someone is, just as their behavior shows it in a different way. Words are so important that every human being will be justified or condemned on the basis of his words (cf. Romans 10:9-10). The Lord will make a complete statement about the use of words because He knows the source from which they come.