Skip to main content

TAKE UP THE CHALLENGE

Jesus taught that all scripture testifies about him so that in him we might have life (John 5v39-40). King David taught that it is only by living according to God's word that we're kept on the right path (Psalm 119v9). What then could be better than reading the entire Bible? Click the menu to read about the program, choose a month or Bible book - or just work through the blog posts day by day.

(422) 27 February : Proverbs 21v7 / Matthew 26v57-27v26 / Psalm 92v1-4

BEGIN WITH PRAYER
"Lord open my eyes and my heart."

Read slowly so that you take in. And as you do, turn your heart to God, thanking him for the good you discover and praying his will home for you, your family, your church and the world.

Wisdom to chew on
Understanding to grow in
Innocence and guilt. The innocence of Jesus, and the guilt, therefore, of those who executed him nevertheless. That's the theme (27v4, 19, 23-24). Rather than listen to his testimony about himself, the Sanhedrin assume it a lie and abuse him. Peter knows it is true yet denies him. Judas is aware he is innocent, yet betrays him. Pilate even declare it, but still has him flogged and crucified, whilst the Jews choose the guilty Barabbas over him. These events encourage every Christian suffering injustice for their faith, that they follow the most noble example. But it challenges us as to our response to Jesus too. How do we explain his claim to be God 'sSon and saving King? Nothing in his life suggests a deception. So, to scoff at it and reject or oppose him, is to display the same sentiments as those above. As you read note the different attitudes to Jesus.
Matthew 26:57-27:26

Finish this reading by pausing to ask yourself:
1) What’s the main thing it teaches me about God or his purposes in Christ? Then praise him for this.
2) What’s the main thing it teaches me about his will for me or the world? Then pray that home.

Devotion to offer up
You could read this aloud and perhaps as a springboard to further prayer.