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Following Jesus Requires Courage
Matthew 10:16-42 teaches that following Jesus won’t always be easy. He warns His disciples that they will face opposition, but He tells them not to be afraid because God cares for them deeply. Jesus reminds them that standing firm in their faith is more important than fearing what others think or do. He also says that loving Him must come first, even before family or personal comfort. Those who give up their lives for His sake will find true life. This passage encourages believers to trust God, stay faithful, and know that He rewards those who follow Him with courage.
The Death of John the Baptist
Mark 6:14-29 tells the tragic story of John the Baptist’s death. King Herod had arrested John because he spoke out against Herod’s sinful actions. During a feast, Herod’s stepdaughter danced for him, and he foolishly promised to give her anything she wanted. Influenced by her mother, she asked for John’s head. Though Herod didn’t want to kill John, he felt trapped by his promise and ordered John’s execution. This story shows the dangers of pride and making rash decisions, as well as the cost of standing for truth. John remained faithful to God, even though it cost him his life.
Jesus Provides and Shows His Power
Matthew 14:13-36 shows Jesus’ compassion and power. A large crowd followed Him, and even though He was tired, He miraculously fed over 5,000 people with just five loaves of bread and two fish. Later that night, His disciples were struggling against strong winds in their boat when Jesus walked on water toward them. Peter tried to walk to Jesus but sank when he became afraid. Jesus caught him and reminded him to have faith. Afterward, many people came to Jesus for healing, and He healed them all. This passage shows that Jesus cares for people, provides for their needs, and has power over all things.
Jesus, the Bread of Life
John 6:22-40 tells how people searched for Jesus after He fed the crowd with loaves and fish. But Jesus told them they were focused on physical food instead of what truly matters—eternal life. He explained that God wants people to believe in Him, the one He sent. Jesus called Himself the “Bread of Life,” meaning He alone can satisfy the hunger of the soul. He promised that whoever comes to Him will never be spiritually hungry or thirsty and that those who trust in Him will have eternal life. This passage reminds us that Jesus is the only one who can give lasting fulfillment and hope.
Jesus’ Words Bring Eternal Life
John 6:41-71 tells how some people struggled to accept Jesus’ teaching. He said He was the “Bread of Life” sent from heaven and that only those who believe in Him will have eternal life. He also spoke about giving His flesh and blood, pointing to His future sacrifice on the cross. Many found His words difficult and stopped following Him. But when Jesus asked His disciples if they would leave too, Peter replied, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” This passage reminds us that even when Jesus’ teachings are hard to understand, trusting Him leads to true life.
True Purity Comes from the Heart
Mark 7:1-37 shows that Jesus cares more about what’s in our hearts than just following religious rules. Some religious leaders criticized Jesus’ disciples for not washing their hands before eating, but Jesus told them that what truly makes a person unclean is not food or outside traditions—it’s the evil thoughts and actions that come from within. Later, Jesus showed His love for all people by healing a Gentile woman’s daughter and a man who was deaf and could hardly speak. This passage teaches that God looks at our hearts, not just our outward actions, and that Jesus’ power and love are for everyone.
Trust in Jesus, Not Just Signs
Matthew 15:32–16:12 shows Jesus’ care and a lesson about faith. First, He fed over 4,000 people with just a few loaves and fish, showing His power to provide. Later, religious leaders demanded a sign from Jesus to prove who He was, but He told them they were missing the real message. He warned His disciples to be careful of the wrong teachings of these leaders, comparing their influence to yeast that spreads through dough. This passage reminds us that true faith isn’t about always asking for miracles but trusting in Jesus and His words.
Seeing Clearly and Following Jesus
Mark 8:22-37 shows how Jesus helps people see both physically and spiritually. First, He healed a blind man in stages, showing that sometimes understanding comes gradually. Then, Jesus asked His disciples who they thought He was, and Peter rightly said, “You are the Messiah.” But when Jesus explained that He would suffer and die, Peter didn’t understand. Jesus told His followers that to truly follow Him, they must put aside their own desires and trust Him completely. This passage teaches that recognizing Jesus as the Savior is just the beginning—we must also follow Him with faith, even when it’s difficult.
Jesus’ Glory and the Power of Faith
Luke 9:28-45 tells of a powerful moment when Jesus took Peter, James, and John up a mountain to pray. There, His appearance changed, shining brightly, and Moses and Elijah appeared with Him. This showed His true glory as God’s Son. A voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, listen to Him.” Later, Jesus healed a boy that His disciples couldn’t help, showing that true power comes through faith in Him. Even though Jesus spoke again about His coming suffering, His followers didn’t fully understand. This passage reminds us to listen to Jesus, trust in His power, and grow in faith.
Humility and Trust in Jesus
Matthew 17:24–18:6 teaches important lessons about trust and humility. When asked about paying the temple tax, Jesus showed that, as God’s Son, He didn’t have to pay it—but He still provided the money through a miracle, showing His power and humility. Later, He told His disciples that the greatest in God’s kingdom are those who humble themselves like children. He warned against leading others, especially little ones, away from faith. This passage reminds us that true greatness comes from humility, trusting in Jesus, and caring for others rather than seeking power or status.