A Healthy Tree

Read:  Matthew Chapter 12

“Either make the tree good and its fruit good, or make the tree bad and its fruit bad, for the tree is known by its fruit.” (Matt. 12:33)

In every confrontation with the religious leaders, Jesus points to the true nature of God, His Law, and His Kingdom.  Jesus points to God’s mercy and forgiveness.  He recognizes the good works of the Holy Spirit through healing, restoration, and casting out demons.  He points toward hope and adoption into the family of God.  Jesus emphasizes obeying the will of Father (as revealed by His nature) on a higher level than following (man’s interpretation of) rules of religion.  He gravely warns against missing (or not recognizing) the work of the Holy Spirit and falsely accusing Him.  He exposes the abusive things we say as revealing the evil we harbor in our hearts.  Again and again He commands the people of Israel, and us, to repent.

Father, teach me to see from Your perspective, to hear what You hear, and to understand Your kingdom.  Cleanse me from all unrighteousness, that I may recognize and acknowledge Your work and Your Spirit.


*This post is part of a month long devotional series on Matthew.  To start from the intro click here.  To go to the next post click here.