Matthew 16:20
The fact of Jesus’ identity was already well established. Jesus was not trying to prevent people from knowing who he was. Everything he did was to fulfill prophecy, which made it abundantly clear who he was. What Jesus is here disallowing is exactly what Judas did. He is telling them not to take matter into their own hands. He is warning them not to reveal his identity or location to his enemies.
The people in general wanted to make him a king. This was not his plan. The Jewish leaders wanted him dead. Though this was part of his plan, it could only come as he wanted it to. He was telling his followers to allow him to control the situation. He knew they would be tempted to try to get people to see Jesus for who he really is. Judas, unsure how he felt about Jesus anyway, decided that betraying him to the authorities would either force Jesus’ hand, or at least make Judas some money.
Bible Reading: Isaiah 14:1-18:7
Scripture Memory: 1 John 4:9 “In this was manifested the love of God towards us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.”
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for who You are! You are worthy of all our praise today and every day! You are so good and gracious and loving! Your faithfulness is such a blessing to us. If You were not so patient with us, we would be in a lot of trouble. Thank You for Your love to us! In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ I pray and praise You, Amen.
Prayer Requests: Pray for a boy with a stomach ache. Pray for a woman with cancer. Pray that we will be more thankful for our blessings.
Journal Entry #13314