Our scripture today is Matthew 7:28 (MEV).
When Jesus finished these sayings, the people were astonished at His teaching,
Matthew uses the phrase “when Jesus finished saying these things” several times to indicate when there is a new direction in the teaching. It separates Matthew’s Gospel into five sections, mirroring the Pentateuch, the books of Moses. Look also in Matthew for Jesus telling us “you have heard it said…but I say to you”, giving us the truth of scripture and not the interpretations and manipulations of the religious leaders of that time. This is why the people were astonished at His teaching – Jesus was the source of the scriptures in the first place!
Gracious God, we are amazed that You offer us Your mercy through Jesus our Lord. Forgive us and bless us to be the disciples of today, carrying Your word and Your love to the world. Amen.
