The Miracles and Work of Jesus

Peter, displaying a mix of faith and doubt, requested to walk on water towards Jesus. Though he briefly faltered due to doubt, Jesus caught him, illustrating the importance of unwavering faith in the face of challenges.

Jesus demonstrated compassion and healing power by curing a multitude of sick individuals, showcasing his desire to alleviate human suffering and bring restoration.

In a parallel to the previous feeding miracle, Jesus multiplied seven loaves of bread and a few fish to feed four thousand people, emphasizing his ability to provide abundantly and miraculously meet the needs of his followers.

In a bold and confrontational exchange, Jesus challenged the hypocrisy of the Pharisees, highlighting the importance of genuine faith and obedience to God over superficial adherence to religious traditions. Section 1: Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand (Matthew 14)

In Matthew Chapter 14, we witness one of Jesus' most famous miracles - feeding the five thousand. Jesus took just five loaves of bread and two fish and managed to feed a huge crowd of people. It's like pulling a rabbit out of a hat, except with a much larger menu. This miracle showcases Jesus' compassion for the people and his power to provide abundantly, even from the most meager resources.

In the same chapter, we see Jesus' walking on water. Yep, you read that right - walking on water like it's a stroll in the park. Jesus defies the laws of nature and shows his disciples that with faith, anything is possible. It's like the ultimate trust fall, except with waves and wind instead of your coworker trying to catch you.

Moving on to Matthew Chapter 15, we find Jesus dropping truth bombs left and right. He confronts the religious leaders about their focus on external rituals rather than true heart transformation. It's like calling out someone for obsessing over Instagram filters instead of working on their actual personality. Jesus reminds us that true defilement comes from within, not from what we eat or how we wash our hands.

Lastly, we encounter the story of the Canaanite woman who demonstrates unwavering faith in Jesus. Despite being initially ignored and even rebuffed by Jesus, this woman's persistence and faith move Jesus to praise her great faith. It's like a game of spiritual tug-of-war, with the woman refusing to let go of her trust in Jesus. 

This encounter challenges us to persist in our faith and trust in Jesus, even when it seems like he's not listening. The miracles and work of Jesus in Matthew chapters 14 and 15 serve as powerful demonstrations of his divine nature and boundless love for all. Through these miraculous deeds and profound teachings, Jesus continues to inspire faith and awe in believers today, reminding us of his unmatched power and unwavering compassion. As we reflect on these accounts, may we find renewed hope, trust, and gratitude in the enduring legacy of Jesus Christ, the miracle worker and Savior of the world.

Brothers and Sisters now let's review what we just learned, from today's devotional.

First, we learn the Significance of Miracles and Teachings in Matthew 14 and 15.

In these chapters, Jesus reveals His compassionate and powerful nature. Amidst the shadow of John the Baptist’s death, His miracles serve as beacons of hope. Even in times of loss and doubt, His love and power remain constant. Here’s the roundup:

a. The Death of John the Baptist (Matthew 14:1-12)

King Herod, mistaking Jesus for John the Baptist returned from the dead, recounts John’s execution.

John’s disciples bury his body and inform Jesus.

b. Feeding the Five Thousand (Matthew 14:13-21)

Upon hearing of John’s death, Jesus withdraws to a remote place.

Moved with compassion, He heals the sick.

Instead of sending the crowd away, Jesus multiplies five loaves and two fish to feed them.

c. Jesus Walks on Water (Matthew 14:22-36)

After feeding the multitude, Jesus prays alone.

He walks on water, startling the disciples.

Peter, in daring faith, walks toward Jesus but starts sinking due to doubt.

Jesus rescues him and heals all who come to Him.

Second, we learn the Lessons from the Feeding Miracles.

God’s Abundant Provision: Through these miracles, God shatters finite expectations. His goodness exceeds imagination. What goes into our mouths doesn’t defile us; it’s what comes from our hearts that matters.

Third we learn the Interactions with the Pharisees in Matthew 15.

Tradition vs. God’s Commandments:

Pharisees accuse Jesus’ disciples of breaking tradition by not washing hands before eating.

Jesus counters, emphasizing God’s commandments over human traditions.

He exposes their hypocrisy and quotes Isaiah, revealing their empty worship.

Fourth we learn about the Miracles in Other Gospel Accounts.

These miracles are unique to Matthew’s Gospel but are also found in other Gospels:

Feeding the Multitude: Recorded in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.

Walking on Water: Also recorded in Mark and John. 

As we close this devotional, I invite you to join me in my ministry Rhoades Well Traveled Ministry, where we can share our stories of faith, service, and growth. I appreciate your time and attention, and I hope you have learned something valuable today. Let us go forth with courage, grace, and love.

Have a wonderful and blessed day. Amen.

Reverend Danny Rhoades