DAILY TEXT, From today  Friday September 1, 2023, They asked Him to show them some sign from heaven (Matt. 16:1).

Let's Examine the Scriptures Every Day 2023

Friday September 1

They asked him to show them some sign from heaven (Matt. 16:1).

In Jesus' day, it seemed to some that his amazing way of teaching was not enough; they wanted more. But since he refused to give them the sign they asked for, they stumbled and rejected him (Matt. 16:4). What does the Bible say? Referring to the Messiah, Isaiah prophesied: “he will not shout or raise his voice, he will not make his voice heard in the street” (Is. 42: 1, 2). Jesus performed his ministry without drawing attention to himself. He did not set about building impressive temples, wear special religious garments, or demand that he be addressed by bombastic religious titles. While on trial, he refused to perform any miracles to impress King Herod even though his life was in danger (Luke 23:8-11). Sure, during his ministry he did some miracles, but for him the most important thing was always to preach the good news. He told his disciples, “For this I have come” (Mark 1:38). w21.05 4 pars. 9, 10.

What wrong expectations do some people have?

Does the same happen today? Yes. Many people are impressed by great cathedrals and their priceless works of art, religious leaders with pompous titles, and certain ceremonies that, although few already know, have a pagan origin and meaning. But those who attend their religious services are learning very little about God and his purpose. Instead, those who attend our Christian meetings learn what Jehovah requires of us and how to do his will. Our Kingdom Halls are not fancy, but clean and practical. Those who lead the congregations do not wear special clothing or pretentious titles. And our teachings and beliefs are based on the Word of God. Despite all this,

According to Hebrews 11:1, 6, what should your faith be based on?

What will help you not to stumble? The apostle Paul told the Christians in Rome: “Faith follows the message that is heard, and the message that is heard comes through the word about Christ” (Rom. 10:17). Strong faith is not achieved by participating in unbiblical religious ceremonies, however beautiful or impressive they may seem, but by studying the Scriptures. Your faith must be solid and based on accurate knowledge, because “without faith it is impossible to please God” (read Hebrews 11:1, 6). So, for someone to be convinced that he has found the truth, he doesn't need spectacular signs from heaven. A careful study of Biblical teachings is enough to strengthen faith and remove any doubts.

Why did many condemn Jesus?

In the time of Jesus, the followers of John the Baptist were surprised because the disciples of Jesus did not fast. Jesus explained to them that they had no reason to fast while he was still alive (Matt. 9:14-17). Even so, the Pharisees and other enemies of Jesus condemned him because he did not follow their customs and traditions. They were enraged when they saw him cure the sick on the Sabbath (Mark 3:1-6; John 9:16). Those self-righteous on the one hand were proud that they fulfilled the law of the Sabbath and on the other hand they had no problem doing business in the temple. They were outraged when Jesus condemned them for it (Matt. 21:12, 13, 15). And, when Jesus preached in the synagogue of Nazareth, those who listened to him were filled with rage because he used some examples from the history of Israel to denounce his selfishness and his lack of faith (Luke 4:16, 25- 30).

Why did Jesus condemn human traditions that went against the Scriptures?

What does the Bible say? Through his prophet Isaiah, Jehovah said: “This people draw near to me only in word and pay lip service, but their heart is far away from me, and their fear of me is based on commands of men, commands that have taught” (Is. 29:13). Jesus was right to condemn human traditions that went against the Scriptures. Those who gave more importance to the traditions and norms of men than to the Word of God rejected Jehovah and his envoy, the Messiah.

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