The Real Jesus (Matthew 21:1-17)

Jesus is the most influential person to ever live. And yet he is likely the most misunderstood, as well. People have claimed the name of Jesus to support all kinds of causes, movements, and theologies--often contradictory ones. The truth is, it is easy to make Jesus into our own image. The way to fight against this tendency is to see how Jesus reveals himself in his word. Our passage this Sunday shows us the paradoxical nature of Christ and his mission as Jesus is both a strong ruler and humble savior.

Dangers of Discipleship (Matthew 17:14-27)

When was the last time you made a mistake and looked foolish? This passage shows the disciples doing just that, again! In this week's text, Jesus performs two extraordinary miracles. And yet, the miracles are almost an afterthought as Jesus focuses on training his still-weak and confused disciples. Through the disciples' mistakes, we'll see the dangers of our own discipleship so we can avoid too little faith and too much offense.

Offended by Jesus (Matthew 13:53-58)

"Familiarity breeds contempt," as the saying goes. But why is Jesus really rejected by his hometown? As we begin Part 4 of the Gospel of Matthew, we'll see why Jesus is so offensive to so many people--including to you and me--and why that's a very good thing.