THE RIGHT USE OF THE SABBATH Matthew 12:1-14 The Pharisees had introduced a large number of minute and absurd restrictions on Sabbath observance; so our Lord set Himself to recover the day of rest for the use of the people. He never hesitated, therefore, to work miracles of healing on that day, an... [ Continue Reading ]
THE TESTIMONY OF DEEDS OF MERCY Matthew 12:15-23 A _reed_ is not of much account. You may see hundreds of them encircling a stagnant pond and bending before the breeze. A _bruised reed_ is still more worthless to the eye of the world. Yet the Master does not despise a bruised or broken reed. No, H... [ Continue Reading ]
SLANDER FROM EVIL HEARTS Matthew 12:24-37 Spite and hatred absolutely blind the eyes and distort the judgment. They reached their climax in this effort of the Pharisees to discredit Christ. They could not deny His miracles, so they imputed them to a collusion between Him and Satan. On the face of... [ Continue Reading ]
OPPOSING OR DOING GOD'S WILL Matthew 12:38-50 It was an evil and adulterous age. It had no spiritual appreciation, and was intent on getting an outward and sensible sign. Nineveh itself would have condemned it. The queen of Sheba, without the advantage attaching to the Hebrew race, appreciated Sol... [ Continue Reading ]