In chapters 21 and 22 Matthew presents a series of controversies with the Jewish leaders. Various individuals and groups approached Jesus, each with a question in keeping with their own commitments. But they were not seeking enlightenment. Rather, again they were trying to trap Jesus so as to be able to arrest and condemn Him.
The temple authorities understandably asked about Jesus’ authority. How dare He come in and so disrupt their proceedings? Recognizing the trap, He posed a counter-question. How did they account for John the Baptist’s ministry? They could not reply without either conceding Jesus’ divine authority, since His message parallels John’s, or falling out of favor with the crowds who applauded the Baptist. So they refused to answer, and Jesus did likewise. But He recounted a series of three parables that clearly imply His (and John’s) God-given authority, even as they successively depict God’s indictment, sentence, and execution of Israel.
The parable of the two sons makes the point that performance takes priority over promise. The parable of the wicked tenants predicts that “the kingdom of God will be taken away from [the Jewish leaders] and given to a people who will produce its fruit. The parable of the wedding banquet prophesies the destruction of Jerusalem in response to the Jews’ rejection of Jesus, but also threatens judgment on any would-be Christians who refuse to come to Christ on His terms.
Credits: Concise Bible Commentary, David S. Dockery, General Editor and Holy Bible, King James Version.
Columbia Prayer Chain
Thursday, September 29
In our prayers: Meredith Mitchell, Betty Jo, Jerry Callahan, Russ Meyne, April Goodwin, Laura Bushnell, Loretta M. in Cayce, Kody Oswald, Tina Bailey, Oliver Crawford, Edgar Maxwell, Laura Lou Roamans, Elizabeth Adams, Rootie Pope in Leesville, Gene Awtrey in Spring Valley, John Conde, Millie Husbands, Clyde Ireland, Sam King, Bob Whiteside, Chuck Witten, Lindsay Cathcart, Raven Tarpley, Elizabeth F., Steven and Janelle, William Alex McDaniels, Maddie Rosenthal, DuBose Tuller, Nancy, Doris C., Lynn in Camden, John in Forest Acres, Frances R., Chris Johansson in Blythewood, Nancy in West Columbia
In memoriam: Jane Sansted, Lorraine Jones, James Hosendove Jr., Kara Lee Tedder-Powe, Wedeman Anthony Turner, Arrie Belle Brown, Shirley Ann Butler, Jack William Bolt Sr. Major, U.S. Army (Ret.)
Our prayers are with: All who sustained flood damage in Columbia, Mandy and all beloved pets, our president and congress and all who serve in the armed forces
Columbia Prayer Chain is open to all residents of greater Columbia who would like to share prayers and receive the prayers of others. Please leave your name in the comment box below or email me to join our Prayer Chain. It is updated daily as prayers are requested.
Sharon is a member of the Community Church of the Midlands that meets at Seven Oaks Community Center at 200 Leisure LaneIn Columbia and is a frequent participant, with her husband Douglas, at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral located at in Columbia.
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