10.5 Matthew 1-4

Sara Warfield

10.5.2020

Matthew 1-4

Summarize what you read in one paragraph:

Matthew Chapters 1-4 takes us through the genealogy of Jesus, and the amazing beginning story of Jesus. We also see the story of an angel coming to visit Joseph in a dream telling about Mary and Jesus, to not fall into the trap of what society expects but to know that this Jesus’ birth is fulfillment of prophecy. We then see the journey and story of the Wise Men, their interaction with Herod, as well as the escape to Egypt to avoid Herod’s wrath. We also see John the Baptizer in chapter 3, seeing again how prophecy is being fulfilled, and John spreading this message and holding to the message, baptizing Jesus as well in an amazing moment. Chapter 4 leaves us with Jesus being tested in the desert and overcoming the temptation that Satan had placed before him, and continuing on his ministry to Galilee, calling his disciples and healing many! Wow so much in just four chapters!

What is one key verse?

One key verse that stuck out to me was 

Matthew 4:24 (TPT) 

His fame spread everywhere! Many people who were in pain and suffering with every kind of illness were brought to Jesus for their healing – epileptics, paralytics, and those tormented by demonic powers were all set free. Everyone who was brought to Jesus was healed!”

How does what you read change your vision of God?

What I read impacts my vision of God by seeing how loving and caring he is to all those who come to him.  No one is turned away.  So much occurred in these chapters, even before Jesus started his ministry. To read about how prophecies from the Old Testament were fulfilled, and knowing that there are going to be others that are fulfilled through Jesus is amazing to think about.  In this specific scripture, it is so humbling, and special to see in scripture, that it doesn’t matter what we are suffering with Jesus is our cure. Additionally, it is Jesus that sets us free. How powerful is that?! And what a great reminder of who our Jesus and God are!

How does what you read change your vision of yourself or others?

I think this changes my vision of myself and others, to see them as Jesus sees them.  God sent His son for the world, out of love. Going to my point above, it doesn’t matter what we are afflicted with, Jesus is there, wanting to heal not just me, but everyone.  This encourages me, as well as motivates me to share Jesus even more. 

How will you Go With God because of this reading? (What is an action step?)

I will go with God in remembering that I am healed through him, and even if new ailments arise, He is the ultimate healer. 

Where did you see Jesus in these chapters? (What made you think about Jesus?)

I see Jesus, how he can relate to us with persevering, and extending his love to those around him that he calls, and those that want to be healed.