Sermons

A few notes on the Passion According to St. Matthew: Each of the 4 gospels record Jesus’ arrest, his mock trial, and his crucifixion and resurrection. And each tells those stories in their own way. Matthew’s gospel basically follows the pattern set by Mark, but with these special

MATTHEW 25:31-46 “THE SHEEP AND THE GOATS” Bible Background: In Matthew’s gospel, the idea of judgement day is strong. This story acts as a “bookend” to Jesus’ teachings which started back in chapter 5 with the Beatitudes. Those words of surprising blessing

DIGGING DEEPER INTO MATTHEW 25:1-13 Bible Background: Matthew is the only gospel that records this parable. He seems more interested in the final judgement than Mark or Luke. This parable is about expecting Christ’s return, and Christ’s return bringing judgement. To Matthew’s

DIGGING DEEPER INTO MATTHEW 22:1-14 Bible Background: Dr. David Lose calls this “an ugly parable.” None of the characters look good in it. Characteristic of other parables, this one uses hyperbole for ‘shock-value.’ There’s a softer version of this parable in Luke