Rejection of God leads to pain in this life and judgment in the next. While belief in God provides a Refuge in this life and everlasting joy in the next. Marvel at the transformation Jesus makes possible.

Jesus plunders Hell to rescue us. He alone can rescue us from sin’s grip, Satan’s power, death’s sting, and God’s judgment. Put all your hope–all of it–in Him.

When Jesus experienced opposition, He withdrew and continued His ministry elsewhere. Matthew explains that Jesus’ response to opposition, rather than indicating that His ministry success would be limited, was a sign that Jesus would ultimately overcome all opposition.

Jesus shifts his attention to how we must respond to Him. He rebukes apathetic and dismissive responses, calling instead for repentance. Then He shows us that repentance is actually the acceptance of an invitation to know His Father and to experience a rest that only He can give.

Following Jesus’ challenging teaching in Matthew 10, Jesus answers a question from the disciples of John the Baptist and then speaks to the crowds about John the Baptist. Jesus’ words here teach us that he uniquely promises blessing to those who follow Him – who don’t stumble over Him because of His teachings.

The message of Jesus divides because it demands a response of whole life worship. But in responding to Jesus, the reward is immeasurable.

In our sermon on Matthew 10:26-33 we explored Jesus’ call to fearlessly proclaim the Gospel, trusting that nothing is hidden from God’s sight. We reflected on how God’s care for even the sparrows assures us of His deep love and attention to every detail of our lives. Finally, we were challenged to boldly confess Christ before others, knowing He will acknowledge us before the Father.