1When Jesus had finished saying these things, he left Galilee and went into the region of Judea to the other side of the Jordan. 2Large crowds followed him, and he healed them there. (Matthew 19:1,2)
Thoughts: Matthew divides Jesus' teaching into five major sections (7:28, 11:1; 13:53; 26:1; and 19:1,2). This is the end of the fourth section- for each ends and begins with the phrase: "When Jesus had finished saying these things..." Now Jesus' ministry in the northern province of Galilee. Now He moves toward Judea and with that his final teaching, and the cross, and resurrection. By now Jesus was famous. Herod had heard of him and wanted to see him do some miracle. Large crowds were following him, and doubtless the Romans and Pharisees were getting a bit nervous if not afraid. The first century was full of rebellions. But Jesus was not raising soldiers, He was healing people and teaching them to make followers. He was willing to face the cross. His raising followers was done by this combination of amazing teaching and amazing power. We should remember Jesus is not just another good teacher, He also is Lord and able to help us.
Prayer: Lord, thank you that you kept your calling. Help me to keep to mind. Help me to remember not only your teaching, but your ability to answer prayer.
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