I'm struck by how fast this book moves. We are only 3 chapters in and we have already gone from Abraham......to Jesus' birth......to his baptism. Not a lot of details here. But, some very important ones.
I found this in reference to what I was thinking:
The divine nature of Jesus was a major issue for the Matthaean community, the crucial element marking them from their Jewish neighbors; while Mark begins with baptism and transfiguration, Matthew goes back further still, showing Jesus as the Son of Godfrom his birth, the fulfillment of Old Testament messianic prophecies.[7] The title Son of David identifies Jesus as the healing and miracle-working Messiah of Israel (it is used exclusively in relation to miracles), sent to Israel alone.[8] As Son of Man he will return to judge the world, a fact his disciples recognise but of which his enemies are unaware.[9] As Son of God he is God revealing himself through his son, and Jesus proving his sonship through his obedience and example.[10]
tp
10 The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.
ReplyDeleteI'm amazed at the clarity John has regarding his purpose. He knows he is preparing the way for Jesus son of God. He also makes it clear you are either with Jesus or against him. If you are not producing fruit through your faith in Jesus you will ultimately be cut down.
You are right Matthew is zipping along. The bible works so well together, if this chapter is all we had on Jesus we would miss some color from his life that we learn in other places.
knut
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