Passage
Matthew 10:24-33 (ESV)
Hezekiah’s Foolishness
2 Kings 20:12-21
Key Verse: 20:17
Do Not Fear Them; Fear God
Date: May. 21, 2015
Daily Bread
Key Verse: 10:28
And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.
First, do not be afraid of slander (24-27). Jesus had been called Beelzebul by the religious leaders, who wanted to slander and discredit him. No one wants to be treated that way. But Jesus told his disciples that being his student and servant will bring such slander, and even worse! But we should not be afraid of their abuse. The truth about Jesus, about us, and about the slanderers will all be revealed in time. So continue to live as Jesus' witness.
Second, do not be afraid of death (28-33). Slander is not the only persecution, but some will be killed. Jesus told them not to fear those who can only kill the body, but to fear God, who controls our eternal destiny. If he takes care of sparrows, how much more will he take care of us, even being aware of the hairs on our head. Acknowledging Jesus before others means to live with a clear identity as his disciple. This is not a small matter; it determines our relationship with Jesus before the Father.
Prayer: Father, you love me more than many sparrows. Help me to trust you, and acknowledge Jesus.
One Word: Acknowledge Jesus before others
