Daily Walk Through the New Testament
April 10

Read Matthew 8:5-27

Matthew’s ultimate goal in this section of his gospel was to present Jesus as the promised Messiah. Having already demonstrated that Jesus had teaching authority, these verses reveal His authority over sickness and nature. He was the Savior of who the prophets spoke.
Because this is true, the difficulty that comes with following Christ should not deter us. Radical commitment is the only correct response to Jesus. His sovereignty over our circumstances and life’s surprise leaves little room for half-hearted faith. The supposed followers of Jesus in Matthew 8:19 & 21 promised more than they were willing to deliver and less than the Lord required. Though present-day spectators would have applauded their ambitions, Jesus abruptly exposed their shallow promise against the backdrop of His glorious identity.
Why do we suppose that jubilant abandonment to God’s Messiah is fanatical when the touch of Hs hand or the sound of His voice causes disease and sickness to disappear? Do we really expect the God who controls the wind to be impressed when we tip our hat to Him? Jesus’ absolute authority requires our total submission and obedience. Is this how you respond to God?