Articles
Jesus and the Word
Jesus and the Word
As we read of the birth of Jesus to the virgin Mary, we are told that “Thus it fulfilled what was spoken by the Lord through the prophet” (1:22). This would be an oft reoccurring phrase in the book of Matthew about the events in the life of Jesus (2:4-5, 15, 17, 23; 3:15; 4:14; 8:17; 12:17; 13:14, 35; 21:4; 26:54, 56; 27:9). [Hint, it would be good for you not only to look up and read each of these but also to put an asterisk in the margin of your bible so they stand out when you read the rest of the book!]
As He begins the sermon on the mount, He declared that He came to fulfill the law and that not one part would pass away UNTIL all is accomplished (5:17).
His answer to every Temptation was ‘it is written’ (4:4, 7, 10).
Jesus states that John the Baptist “was he of whom it is written” (11:10).
The basis for His cleansing of the temple was “it is written – My house shall be called a house of prayer” (21:13).
His repeated question to the leaders as he debated them, “Have you not read?” (12:3, 5; 19:4; 21:16; 42; 22:31).
He knew what would happen at his betrayal “for it is written…” (26:31).
While we now have the revelation of the New Covenant, we would do well to have the same reverence, awe, and respect for the Word of God as did Jesus! Such an attitude is shown by His knowing it, teaching it, and obeying it. Thus it could be said of Him: “Although He was a Son, He learned obedience from the things which He suffered. And having been made perfect, He became to all those who obey Him the source of eternal salvation (Hebrews 5:8-9). Is the Word of God the foundation, basis, and rule of your life?
Hugh DeLong
