The Paralytic
1-12. He handles interruptions well! When the man is dropped from the roof, He takes the opportunity to speak past the man's physical needs, to His spiritual needs. Coming in the midst of teaching to a large crowd this demonstrates His great skill at making teachable moments.
Tax Collectors and Sinners and Levi's Calling
13-17. He is not afraid to raise eyebrows for the sake of the mission. Being bold in meeting with these sinners in view of critics sends a strong signal to His newly recruited disciples regarding His values and determination in His mission.
Questions about Fasting: patches and wineskins
18-22. Jesus is articulate in defense of acting counter-culturally. He understands the long-view of the situation, and therefore acts outside the bounds of the "forms" of the establishment, though not outside its "functions." It would be wise for us to likewise recognize what is essential and what is simply a method. Then, of course, Jesus explains Himself with to the point and culturally relevant examples.
Sabbath
23-28. Jesus argues with the Pharisees on their "theological turf" so to speak by quoting the Old Testament, which they know through and through back to them. We can learn to know our opponent's positions so well so as to make arguments based on what they find authoritative.
One thing that caught my eye were the times in which Jesus was going by the lake or by a grain field - he was constantly followed by crowds needing him - it makes me wonder how many times his "quiet times" were interrupted.
ReplyDeletecool thought, Jason. I guess that's why He sought out the lonely places.
ReplyDelete