Old Treasures Made New

Matthew 19:1-15With respect to marriage, our Lord teaches, that the union of husband and wife ought never to be broken off, except for the greatest of all causes, namely, actual unfaithfulness.With respect to little children, we find our Lord instructing us in these verses, both by word and deed, both by precept and example.Finally, let us draw from these verses encouragement to attempt great things in the religious instruction of children."It is difficult to overrate the importance of these two subjects. The well-being of nations, and the happiness of society, are closely connected with right views upon them. Nations are nothing but a collection of families. The good order of families depends entirely on keeping up the highest standard of respect for the marriage tie, and on the right training of children."

Matthew 18:21-35The Lord Jesus lays it down as a general rule, that we ought to forgive others to the uttermost.Our Lord supplies us with two powerful motives for exercising a forgiving spirit.It is clear from this parable that one motive for forgiving others, ought to be the recollection that we all need forgiveness at God's hands ourselves.Another motive for forgiving others, ought to be the recollection of the day of judgment, and the standard by which we shall all be tried in that day."Would we do good to the world? Would we have any influence on others, and make them see the beauty of true religion? Let us remember this passage. Men who care not for doctrines, can understand a forgiving temper."

Matthew 18:15-20Let us notice how admirable are the rules laid down by our Lord, for the healing of differences among brethren.Let us observe what a clear argument we have in these verses for the exercise of DISCIPLINE in a Christian congregation.Let us observe what gracious encouragement Christ holds out to those who meet together in His name."A perfect communion can never be attained in this world, but purity should be the mark at which we aim. An increasingly high standard of qualification for full church-membership, will always be found one of the best evidences of a prosperous church."

Matthew 18:1-14We are taught in these verses of the necessity of conversion, and of conversion manifested by childlike humility. We are taught in these verses of the great sin of putting stumbling blocks in the way of believers.We are taught in these verses of the reality of future punishment after death. We are taught in these verses of the value that God sets on the least and lowest of believers. "Heaven would be no heaven to us if we were not converted.""The surest mark of true conversion is humility. If we have really received the Holy Spirit, we shall show it by a meek and childlike spirit."

Matthew 17:22-27Let it be our daily aim to say or do anything that would displease our Lord.Let us observe our Lord's almighty power over all creation.Let us observe our Lord's willingness to make concessions, rather than to give offense."Let us measure every difficult question as to right and wrong by one simple test, "How would I behave, if Jesus was standing by my side?" Such a standard is not extravagant and absurd. It is a standard that interferes with no duty or relation of life. It interferes with nothing but sin. Happy is he that tries to realize his Lord's presence, and to do all and say all as unto Christ."

Matthew 17:14-21We see in these verses is a lively emblem of the dreadful influence sometimes exercised by Satan over the young.We see in these verses a striking example of the weakening effect of unbelief.We see in these verses that Satan's kingdom is not to be pulled down without diligence and pains."Faith is the key to success in the Christian warfare. Unbelief is the sure road to defeat. Once let our faith languish and decay, and all our graces will languish with it. Courage, patience, long-suffering, and hope, will soon wither and dwindle away. Faith is the root on which they all depend."

Matthew 17:1-13We have in these verses a striking pattern of the glory in which Christ and His people will appear when He comes the second time.We have in these verses, an unanswerable proof of the resurrection of the body, and the life after death. We have in these verses a remarkable testimony to Christ's infinite superiority over all mankind."The best of men are only men at their very best.""The sum and substance of saving religion is to "listen to Christ."

Matthew 16:24-28Let us learn from these verses that men must make up their minds to trouble and self-denial, if they follow Christ.Let us learn from these verses that there is nothing so precious as a man's soul.Let us learn that the second coming of Christ is the time when His people shall receive their rewards. "The bitter must come before the sweet, the cross before the crown."

Matthew 16:21-23We learn from these verses that there may be much spiritual ignorance even in a true disciple of Christ.Let us learn from these verses that there is no doctrine of Scripture so deeply important as the doctrine of Christ's atoning death."The error that drew from so loving a Savior such a stern rebuke to such a true disciple, must have been a mighty error indeed...Error on many other points is only a skin disease. Error about Christ's death is a disease at the heart."

Matthew 16:13-20A brief look at the controverted words:What, then are we to understand, when we read that remarkable saying of our Lord's, "You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church?"But what are we to understand, when we read the promise which our Lord makes to Peter, "I will give to you the keys of the kingdom of heaven?"Finally, what are we to understand, when we read the words, "Whatever you bind on earth will have been bound in heaven; and whatever you release on earth will have been released in heaven?"3 points for our own souls:Let us admire the noble confession which the apostle Peter makes in this passage. Let us take care that we understand what our Lord means when He speaks of His Church.Let us mark the glorious promises which our Lord makes to His Church.

Matthew 16:1-12The first point in this passage which deserves special notice, is the repetition which our Lord makes of words used by Him on a former occasion.The second point which deserves special notice in these verses is, the solemn warning which our Lord takes occasion to give to His disciples.Finally, let us make a personal use of this caution, by keeping up a holy jealousy over our own souls."Let our principle be "the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth," nothing added to it, and nothing taken away."

Matthew 15:29-39Let us remark, how much more pain people take about the relief of their bodily diseases, than about their souls. Let us remark the marvelous ease and power with which our Lord healed all who were brought to Him. Let us remark the abundant compassion of our Lord Jesus Christ."Christ's mercy is a deep well, of which no one ever found the bottom."

Matthew 15:21-28We see that true faith may sometimes be found, where it might have been least expected.We see that affliction sometimes proves a blessing to a person's soul.We see that Christ's people are often less gracious and compassionate than Christ Himself.We see what encouragement there is to persevere in prayer, both for ourselves and others."Above all, let us tell men continually that they must not judge of Christ by Christians. Let us assure them that there is far more in that gracious Master, than there is in the best of His servants.""Let us be sure that no time is so well-spent in every day, as that which we spend upon our knees."

Matthew 15:10-201.Respecting FALSE DOCTRINE, our Lord declares, that it is a duty to oppose it, that its final destruction is sure, and that its teachers ought to be forsaken. Do we not see here the duty of boldness in resisting false teaching?Do we not see again the duty of forsaking false teachers, if they will not give up their delusions?Do we not see, in the last place, the duty of patience, when we see false teaching abound?2.Respecting the HEART OF MAN, our Lord declares in these verses, that it is the true source of all sin and defilement.Let it be a settled resolution with us, that in all our religion the state of our hearts shall be the main thing.Let it be a settled resolution with us to "keep our hearts with all diligence," all the days of our lives. (Prov. 4:23.)

Matthew 15:1-9We learn, for one thing, that hypocrites generally attach great importance to mere outward things in religion.We learn, for another thing, from these verses, the great danger of attempting to add anything to the word of God.We learn, in the last place, from these verses, that the religious worship which God desires, is the worship of the heart.

Matthew 14:22-36We learn, in the first place, from this miracle, what absolute dominion our Savior has over all created things. We learn, in the second place, from this miracle, what power Jesus can bestow on those who believe on Him. Let us learn, in the third place, from this miracle, how much trouble disciples bring on themselves by unbelief. Let us learn, in the last place, from this miracle, how merciful our Lord Jesus Christ is to weak believers.Favorite Quote: "May we only remember, that while we do not despise little faith, we must not sit down content with it. Our prayer must ever be, "Lord, increase our faith."

Matthew 14:13-21In the first place, this miracle is an unanswerable proof of our Lord's divine POWER.In the second place, this miracle is a striking example of our Lord's COMPASSION toward men. In the last place, this miracle is a lively emblem of the sufficiency of the Gospel to meet the soul-needs of all mankind.

Matthew 14:1-12Let us learn, in the first place, from these verses, the great power of conscience.Let us learn, in the second place, that God's children must not look for their reward in this world.

Matthew 13:51-58The first thing which we ought to notice in these verses, is the striking question with which our Lord winds up the seven wonderful parables of this chapter. He said, "Have you understood all these things?"The second thing, which we ought to notice in these verses, is the strange treatment which our Lord received in His own country.The last thing which we ought to notice in these verses is the ruinous nature of unbelief.

Matthew 13:44-50These two parables are meant to teach us, that men really convinced of the importance of salvation, will give up everything to win Christ, and eternal life.Behold in this single picture, the conduct of a true Christian explained! Behold in these two parables the real clue to the conduct of many unconverted people!The parable of the NET let down into the sea, has some points in common with that of the wheat and the tares. It is intended to instruct us on a most important subject, the true nature of the visible Church of Christ.

Matthew 13:24-43(The consideration of the parables of the mustard seed and the leaves is purposefully deferred until a future part of the exposition)In the first place, this parable teaches us, that good and evil will always be found together in the professing Church, until the end of the world. In the second place the parable teaches us, that there is to be a day of separation between the godly and ungodly members of the visible Church, at the end of the world.

Matthew 13:1-23Let us learn, in the first place, from this parable, that the work of the preacher resembles that of the sower. The preacher must (1) Sow good seed, (2) be diligent, and (3) cannot give life.In the next place, let us learn from this passage, that there are various ways of hearing the word of God without benefit. In the last place, let us learn from this parable, that there is only one evidence of hearing the word rightly.

Matthew 12:38-50The first practical lesson which demands our attention in these verses, is the amazing power of unbelief.The second practical lesson which meets us in these verses is the immense danger of a partial and imperfect religious reformation. This is followed by 3 subpoints of this being a picture of the history of (1) the Jewish church and nation, (2) the whole body of Christian churches, and (3) of many individual's soul.The last practical lesson which meets us in these verses is the tender affection with which the Lord Jesus regards His true disciples.

Matthew 12:22-37Let us gather from these passages, in the first place, that there is nothing too blasphemous for hardened and prejudiced men to say against Christ. In the second place, let us gather out of these verses the impossibility of neutrality in religion.In the third place, let us gather from these verses the exceeding sinfulness of sins against knowledge.In the last place, let us gather from these verses the immense importance of carefulness about our daily words.

Matthew 12:14-21The first thing which demands our notice in this passage, is the desperate wickedness of the human heart, which it exemplifies.The second thing which demands our notice in this passage, is the encouraging description of our Lord Jesus Christ's character, which Matthew draws from the prophet Isaiah.

Matthew 12:1-13Let us, in the first place, settle it in our minds as an established principle, that our Lord Jesus Christ does not do away with the observance of a weekly Sabbath day.Let us, in the second place, settle it in our minds, that our Lord Jesus Christ allows all works of real necessity and mercy to be done on the Sabbath day.

Matthew 11:25-30Let us learn, in the first place, the excellence of a childlike and teachable frame of mind.Let us learn, in the second place, from these verses, the greatness and majesty of our Lord Jesus Christ.Let us learn, in the last place, from this passage, the breadth and fullness of the invitations of Christ's Gospel. A number of marks:Mark who they are that Jesus invites.Mark what a gracious offer Jesus makes.Mark what a simple request Jesus makes to the laboring and heavy-laden ones.Mark what an encouraging account Jesus gives of Himself.Mark, lastly, the encouraging account that Jesus gives of His service.

Matthew 11:16-24These verses show the unreasonableness of many unconverted men in the things of religion. These verses show us the exceeding wickedness of willful impenitence.

Matthew 11:1-15The first thing that demands our attention in this passage, is the message which John the Baptist sends to our Lord Jesus Christ.The second thing that demands our notice in this passage, is the high testimony which our Lord bears to the character of John the Baptist.

Matthew 10:34-42He bids us remember that His Gospel will not cause peace and agreement wherever it comes.Our Lord tells us that true Christians must make up their minds to trouble in this world.Our Lord cheers us by saying that the least service done to those who work in His cause is observed and rewarded of God.

Matthew 10:24-33Those who try to do good to souls must not expect to fare better than their great Master.Those who try to do good must look forward with patience to the day of judgment.Those who try to do good must fear God more than man. Those who try to do good must keep before their minds the providential care of God over them.Those who try to do good should continually remember the day when they will meet their Lord to receive their final portion.

Matthew 10:16-23

Matthew 10:1-15We are taught that all ministers are not necessarily saved men. We are taught that the great work of a minister of Christ is to do good.We are taught that it is a most dangerous thing to neglect the offers of the Gospel. "We are not to regard [pastors]as infallible, either in doctrine or in practice. We are not to make popes or idols of them, and insensibly put them in Christ's place.""Half the diseases of Christianity have arisen from mistaken notions about the pastor's office!""Let us assume that we are decent and respectable in our lives, correct and moral in all the relations of life, regular in our formal attendance on the means of grace. It is all well, so far as it goes. But is this all that can be said of us? Are we really receiving the love of the truth? Is Christ dwelling in our hearts by faith? If not, we are in fearful danger. We are far more guilty than the men of Sodom, who never heard the Gospel at all."Questions:In these verses we hear about Jesus ordaining the 12 apostles and sending them out to do good. If you are a pastor, it is worth considering these things, and if you are part of a church, to consider your pastors life in light of these things. Fellow pastors, Ryle warns that 'half the diseases of Christianity have arisen from mistaken notions about the pastor's office!' Do we use this position for self or to serve others? Can we say to those under our care, "follow me, as I follow Christ?" We are warned that to hear the gospel and neglect it is a dangerous thing, as Jesus tells his disciples that it will be better for Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgement than for those who hear and reject. Ryle asks some hard questions worth repeating here. He says, "Let us assume that we are decent and respectable in our lives, correct and moral in all the relations of life, regular in our formal attendance on the means of grace. It is all well, so far as it goes. But is this all that can be said of us? Are we really receiving the love of the truth? Is Christ dwelling in our hearts by faith? If not, we are in fearful danger. We are far more guilty than the men of Sodom, who never heard the Gospel at all." Is this true of us? Is church a formality, or a means of grace we delight in? May it be so, for God's glory and our joy!

Matthew 9:27-38Let us mark that strong faith in Christ may sometimes be found where it might least have been expected.Let us mark that our Lord Jesus Christ has had great experience of disease and sickness.Let us mark our Lord's tender concern for neglected souls.Let us mark that there is a solemn duty incumbent on all Christians, who would do good to the unconverted part of the world."An example like this shows us, that we must never despair of any one's salvation, merely because he lives in a position unfavorable to his soul. Grace is stronger than circumstances.""We never know what racking complaint we ourselves may have to submit to, before we lie down and die. But let us arm ourselves quickly with the precious thought that Jesus is specially fitted to be the sick man's friend. That great high-priest to whom we must apply for pardon and peace with God, is eminently qualified to sympathize with an aching body, as well as to heal an ailing conscience.""There are millions of idolaters and heathen on earth--millions of deluded Muhammadans--millions of superstitious Roman Catholics. There are thousands of unsaved Protestants near our own doors. Do we feel tenderly concerned about their souls.""Never, never may we forget that if we would do good to the world, our first duty is to pray."Questions:We see Jesus healing the sick as He goes around preaching and teaching. The truth of this fallen world is that sin affects every part of life, including our bodies. Sin is the root of all sickness, illness, and ultimately death. And, as Ryle says, we never know what illnesses we may have to submit to before we die. But he challenges us to arm ourselves with this precious thought: Jesus is specially fitted to be the sick man's friend. In whatever sicknesses you have endured, do you tend to run to Jesus or to doctors? Do you believe that Jesus is able to sympathize with and care for you? A quick side note: this is not to say you shouldn't go to a doctor or take medicine, but it is a question of whether our trust is primarily on such things or in Christ who brings the healing.Jesus looks at the multitudes of sheep without a shepherd and had compassion. How is our heart toward the unbelievers around us? Do we have the mind of Christ toward those who are perishing without Christ? If not, may we plead to have the compassion of Christ!Jesus exhorts the disciples to pray to the Lord of the harvest to send workers. Ryle declares that this is a call for all Christians to walk in. He says that such prayer "is one of the surest ways of doing good, and stemming evil." He goes on to say, "Never, never may we forget that if we would do good to the world, our first duty is to pray!" Do our actions show we believe this? May the Lord give us hearts to believe this calling, and to be faithful to do the best good we can for this lost world!

Matthew 9:14-26Let us mark the gracious name by which the Lord Jesus speaks of Himself: "the bridegroom."Let us mark what a wise principle the Lord Jesus lays down for the treatment of young disciples.Let us mark what encouragement our Lord gives to the humblest faith.Let us mark in this passage our Lord's almighty power."What the bridegroom is to the bride, the Lord Jesus is to the souls of all who believe in Him. He loves them with a deep and everlasting love.""We must not be in a hurry to require a minute conformity to one rigid rule in 'things indifferent', until the first principles of repentance and faith have been thoroughly learned. To guide us in this matter, we have great need to pray for grace, and Christian common sense.""Our faith may be feeble. Our courage may be small. Our grasp of the Gospel, and its promises, may be weak and trembling. But, after all, the grand question is, do we really trust in Christ alone? Do we look to Jesus, and only to Jesus, for pardon and peace? If this be so, it is well."Questions:Jesus calls himself 'the bridegroom' and Ryle highlights what that means. As I read it again, try and pick one that stands out to you and ask why. "What the bridegroom is to the bride, the Lord Jesus is to the souls of all who believe in Him. He loves them with a deep and everlasting love. He takes them into union with Himself. They are "one with Christ and Christ in them." He pays all their debts to God. He supplies all their daily need. He sympathizes with them in all their troubles. He bears with all their infirmities, and does not reject them for a few weaknesses. He regards them as part of Himself. Those that persecute and injure them are persecuting Him. The glory that He has received from His Father they will one day share with Him, and where He is, there shall they be."We see a woman with touch the edge of Jesus' cloak and is healed because of her faith. Ryle draws great encouragement regarding the strength or weakness of our faith. He says, "Our faith may be feeble. Our courage may be small. Our grasp of the Gospel, and its promises, may be weak and trembling. But, after all, the grand question is, do we really trust in Christ alone? Do we look to Jesus, and only to Jesus, for pardon and peace? If this be so, it is well." We need to ask ourselves, do we really trust in Christ alone for pardon and peace? Am I seeking to grow in the grace of faith so that I may have more joy in this journey to heaven?

Matthew 9:1-13Let us notice our Lord's knowledge of men's thoughts.Let us notice the wonderful call of the apostle Matthew to be Christ's disciple.Let us observe Matthew's decision.Let us notice our Lord's precious declaration about His own mission."Surely we ought to be very humble when we consider these things. We ought to thank God daily that the blood of Christ can cleanse from all sin.""Let us never despair of any one's salvation. Let us pray on, and speak on, and work on to do good to souls, even to the souls of the worst.""The first thing needful, in order to have an interest in Christ, is to feel deeply our own corruption, and to be willing to come to Him for deliverance. We are not to keep away from Christ, as many ignorantly do, because we feel bad, and wicked, and unworthy. We are to remember that sinners are those He came into the world to save, and that if we feel ourselves such, it is well. Happy is he who really comprehends that one principal qualification for coming to Christ is a deep sense of sin!"Questions:We see that Jesus had the ability to read minds, which among other things, is evidence of His being God. Ryle would have us consider, though, that the same Jesus that could read the Pharisees hearts, knows us the same. He asks, "What do we think of, in private, when no man sees us? What do we think of, in church, when we seem so grave and serious? What are we thinking of at this moment, while these words pass under our eyes?" (or in this case, while you hear these words). What does it do to our hearts that no thought of ours is hidden from God's sight? Does it produce humility like Ryle suggests?We see Matthew, a hated tax collector, turn to Christ upon being called to follow Him. Ryle encourages us that there is no heart so hard that cannot be turned and that we should not give up praying for those we feel are impossible to be saved. Is there anyone like that in your life? Take some time to pray for them now.We see that the entire reason Jesus came was to save sinners by calling them to repent. We see that the qualification for coming to Christ is to see our need for Christ. This is completely the opposite of what many think, namely that I can only come to Christ if I get my life together or something like that. So, this is good news! The truth is that we will never get our lives together to God's standard, and so what is needful is to feel our corruption - our sin and unworthiness - and come to Jesus for deliverance. Have you been deceived in thinking that you just need to get your life together? Have you felt your need for Christ and come to Him in faith, trusting His promise for cleansing? If not, would you ask, as Psalm 51:3 says, that you would know that your transgressions and sin is ever before you? I would encourage you to read Psalm 51 and make it your prayer.

Matthew 8:28-34Let us settle it firmly in our minds, that there is such a being as the devil.Let us settle it firmly in our minds, that the power of the devil is limited.Let us settle it in our minds, that our Lord Jesus Christ is man's great deliverer from the power of the devil.Let us not leave this passage without observing the painful worldliness of the Gadarenes, among whom this miracle of casting out a devil was wrought."There is an unseen spirit ever near us, of mighty power, and full of endless malice against our souls.""Mighty as he is, there is one mightier still. Keenly set as his will is on doing harm in the world, he can only work by permission.""Our great remedy in all the assaults of the devil, is to cry to the Lord Jesus, and to seek His help. He can break the chains that Satan casts around us, and set us free. He can cast out every devil that plagues our hearts, as surely as in the days of old."Questions:As we read about a demon possessed man, Ryle wants us to remember that there really is such a thing as the devil and a spiritual world. He even says that there is an unseen spirit ever near us, of mighty power, and full of endless malice against our souls. It is a frightening thought. If you grew up on the West, it is likely that this comes more as a shock as we lean towards materialism and only believe what we see. If you are from an animistic culture, this won't surprise you as much. The question is: do I believe that there is a devil who hates my soul? How often do I think about this?No sooner that we should believe there is a devil, we must also believe that the devil's power is limited by one who is greater, namely the Lord Jesus Christ. Ryle says that "it would be miserable indeed to know that there is a devil ever near us, if we did not also know that Christ was "able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through Him." We see in this text that the demons could not even enter the pigs without Jesus' permission. Do we take comfort in the fact that we can run to Jesus and that He is greater than even a fearsome enemy like the devil? If you are not familiar with Martin Luther's hymn, A Mighty Fortress, please take some time to sing it as an encouragement as we close this time.

Matthew 8:16-27In the first part of these verses we see a striking example of our Lord's wisdom in dealing with those who professed a willingness to be His disciples.In the latter part of these verses we learn, that true saving faith is often mingled with much weakness and infirmity"Nothing, in fact, has done more harm to Christianity than the practice of filling the ranks of Christ's army with every volunteer who is willing to make a little profession, and talk fluently of his experience.""We never perhaps know the weakness of our faith, until we are placed in the furnace of trial and anxiety. Blessed and happy is that person who finds by experience that his faith can stand the fire, and that he can say with Job, "though he slays me, yet will I trust in him." (Job 13:15.)"Questions:We read of two people who would follow Jesus and are given replies by Jesus that are designed to have them to count the cost of what they are asking for. Jesus doesn't tell them no, nor does he give a quick yes, either. We need to learn from Jesus in these things. When you were told of Christ, were you also told of a cross you would have to carry and that hardships are on this path? When we talk to others about Christ, do we tend to talk of only the benefits (of which there are many) or also the cost? Why or why not?We then read of the disciples, who have counted the cost and are following Jesus, show weak faith as their boat floods with water. Ryle draws encouragement for us in how Jesus responds to his disciples. He says, "We have great reason to thank God that Jesus, our great High-priest, is very compassionate and tender-hearted. He knows our frame. He considers our infirmities. He does not cast off His people because of defects. He pities even those whom he reproves. The prayer even of "little faith" is heard, and gets an answer." How does that truth encourage you? And in addition to this, would you not add to your prayers "Lord, increase my faith?" so that we may stand in the days of trial more steadfastly?

Matthew 8:1-15Let us learn how great is the power of our Lord Jesus Christ. Let us learn the mercifulness and compassion of our Lord Jesus Christ.Let us learn what a precious thing is the grace of faith. "We are encouraged to lean on Him, to cast all our care on Him, to repose all the weight of our souls on Him. We may do so without fear. He can bear all. He is a strong rock. He is Almighty.""Our great High Priest is very gracious. He can be "touched with the feeling of our infirmities." He is never tired of doing us good. He knows that we are a weak and feeble people, in the midst of a weary and troublous world.""To be willing to come to Jesus as helpless, lost sinners, and commit our souls into His hands is a mighty privilege. Let us ever bless God if this willingness is ours, for it is His gift. Such faith is better than all other gifts and knowledge in the world."Questions:We see in these verses the power of Jesus, the Son of God, as He heals many who are sick. We also see His heart as he looks upon these afflictions, and mercy and compassion pours out. And this is the same Jesus we come to today by faith! Do we believe nothing is impossible for Him? Do we believe that he cares about even our pains and illnesses? We also learn of the value of faith as a centurion is declared to have greater faith than anyone in Israel. It is one of the few times that Jesus marvels! Ryle points out that "faith in Christ appears a small and simple thing to the children of this world" and that "they see in it nothing great or grand." And yet, faith in Christ is most precious in God's sight. Do we have this simple faith in Christ and his promises? If so, do we believe that it is the most precious gift in the world? How does this faith change how we live day-by-day?

Matthew 7:21-29The uselessness of a mere outward profession of Christianity. A striking picture of two classes of Christian hearers."We must make a "practice" of our Christianity as well as a "profession."""He does not content himself with listening to exhortations to repent, believe in Christ, and live a holy life. He actually repents. He actually believes. He actually ceases to do evil, learns to do well, abhors that which is sinful, and cleaves to that which is good."Questions: Jesus warns that professing his name is not the test of true Christianity, though we must add that it is not less than that (see Romans 10:9). It is those who do the will of the Father in Heaven. And so, Ryle asks if we are truly repenting, truly believing on Christ, and living holy and humble lives. To help us in this, he encourages us to think often of the great day when Jesus returns and consider if we are living in such a way to hear "well done, good and faithful servant" or "depart from me you workers of lawlessness?" How often does this shape our daily lives?Jesus tells us what makes one wise and foolish, and shows it by revealing their respective ends. The wise man hears God's Word and does it, and the foolish man hears and doesn't. The wise man, in his listening and doing, builds his house so that when the storms of life and the judgement come, his house will stand while the foolish man's will not. And so we need to ask ourselves: what kind of house am I building? Am I content to hear sermons and teaching, to read the Bible and walk away unchanged? Or is my life being transformed as I hear and respond in trust and faith to what I hear and read in God's Word? Does the truth of God's word translate into communion and prayer to God? May we be active and not just passive learners in the things of God!

Matthew 7:12-20He lays down a general principle for our guidance in all doubtful questions between man and man. Our Lord gives us a general caution against the way of the many in religion. The Lord Jesus gives us a general warning against false teachers in the church. "We are to deal with others as we would like others to deal with us. This is real Christianity.""We have no reason to be discouraged and cast down, if the religion we profess is not popular, and few agree with us.""Nothing supplies false prophets with followers so much as spiritual sloth under a cloak of humility."Questions:We find here what has been called the Golden Rule: "treat others the way you want to be treated." Do you have questions that the Bible doesn't answer directly? Do you wish there was a clear rule laid out to give clarity to the situations you face? Well, as Ryle says, this verse is the answer to the unspoken situations we face. How often are we applying this rule to what we do? Jesus declares to us here that there are two places that every person on the planet may be found: either on the wide or narrow path. The narrow path, as Ryle points out, is the way of repentance (turning away from sin), faith in Christ (turning toward Christ in trust), and holiness of life (growing in Christlikeness). These things, he says, have never been in style. The true flock has always been small, and despite how we feel, it is a good sign that the world would call us narrow-minded and bigoted. Where are you? Do we fit into the world, or do we stand out from the world?Jesus not only warns of a broad road but that it is also filled with false teachers, wolves in sheep's clothing. Ryle warns that there always have been, are many today, and there always will be. Pastors and teachers are gifts to you (Ephesians 4:8-11) but only to the extent that the Word of God is faithfully taught. And that, Ryle says, is the best safe-guard against false teaching: to be regularly in God's Word with prayer asking for the teaching of the Holy Spirit. Do not be fooled by seminary degrees and speaking skills, is what is said from God's Word or not? And so we must ask ourselves: do I trust my pastor or other teachers blindly? Am I able to recognize when they are off? Am I willing to ask honest and humble questions if I am unsure of something that has been said? Ryle promises that the one who reads the Bible aright will never be allowed greatly to err. May it be true of us!

Matthew 7:1-11Contained in this passage is the importance of exercising discretion as to the person with whom we speak on the subject of religion.Contained in this passage is the duty of prayer, and the rich encouragements there are to pray."The first portion of these verses is one of those passages of Scripture, which we must be careful not to strain beyond its proper meaning. It is frequently abused and misapplied, by the enemies of true religion. It is possible to press the words of the Bible so far that they yield not medicine, but poison.""Knowledge, not improved and well employed, will only increase our condemnation at the last day.""Do we indeed pray? Then let us pray on, and not faint. It is not lost labor. It is not useless. It will bear fruit after many days. That word never yet failed, "Everyone who asks receives.""Questions:Apparently this passage was just as misused in Ryle's day as in ours, as we hear him speak of the possibility of pressing the words of the Bible so far that they yield not medicine, but poison! Far from a text commanding Christians to not judge others, Ryle highlights that here Jesus condemns to a readiness to blame others for trifling offences, or matters of indifference, a disposition to magnify the errors and infirmities of others. Are we quick to find fault with others or do we strive to love them by assuming the best of them (that is, when offences are not clear and obvious)?Jesus talks about not giving dogs what is holy and pearls to swine. In the context, this is giving discernment as to whom we seek to help pull the speck from their eye. Ryle warns that doing this right takes great wisdom and he gives two mistakes we tend to make. The first is to be over-cautious, that is we never actually go to someone to have the hard conversation. The second is over-zeal, that is we are too eager to approach someone in sin and even delight in the opportunity! Which error do you tend towards? How will you seek to hold a holy balance to this calling?Jesus gives encouragement to pray. He promises that those who ask, seek, and knock will receive! Ryle warns that sadly, though even with such encouragements as these, that there is nothing which we are so slow to do. Do we really believe that those who pray receive? Be encouraged that prayer is not lost labor. It is not useless. It will bear fruit after many days.

Matthew 6:25-34He forbids us to keep up an anxious spirit about the things of this world.He sends us to the birds of the air and flowers for instruction.He suggests to us, that anxiety about the things of this world is most unworthy of a Christian."One great feature of heathenism is living for the present. Let the heathen, if he will, be anxious. He knows nothing of a Father in heaven. But let the Christian, who has clearer light and knowledge, give proof of it by his faith and contentment.""We are not to carry cares before they come. We are to attend to today's business, and leave tomorrow's anxieties until tomorrow dawns. We may die before tomorrow. We know not what may happen tomorrow. This only we may be assured of, that if tomorrow brings a cross, He who sends it, can and will send grace to bear it."Questions:1. Jesus knows we need food and clothing yet he warns against focusing on these things and calls us to focus on His kingdom and righteousness first. It is the focus of the things of this world, even needed things, that brings about much anxiety. How are our hearts in this matter? Are we anxious about many things? Do we find ourselves thinking primarily about the things that will pass away, or the things of eternity?2. Jesus commands us to “not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” So many of our worries and anxieties are about the future, of which we are not guaranteed even tomorrow. Ryle says, “This only we may be assured of, that if tomorrow brings a cross, He who sends it, can and will send grace to bear it.” What does this truth do to your anxious heart? Do you believe that all things are from a sovereign and loving God who works all things for the good of those who love him?3. Ryle, as usual, exhorts us to apply these things to our lives. He says, “Let us watch and pray against worry, and an over-anxious spirit.” He then wisely points out that to do so “deeply concerns our happiness.” How will you do this in your prayer life to increase your happiness in God?

Matthew 6:16-24Let us learn from our Lord's instruction about fasting, the great importance of cheerfulness in our religion. Let us learn from our Lord's caution about worldliness what immense need we all have to watch and pray against an earthly spirit.Let us learn from our Lord's words about the "single eye," the true secret of the failures, which so many Christians seem to make in their religion. "Never let us forget that there is no religion in looking melancholy and gloomy. Are we dissatisfied with Christ's wages, and Christ's service? Surely not! Then let us not look as if we were.""Oh! let us all beware that we do not sink into hell by paying excessive attention to lawful things. Open transgression of God's law slays its thousands, but worldliness its tens of thousands.""Let us be decided, thorough-going, uncompromising followers of Christ. Let our motto be that of Paul, "One thing I do." (Phil. 3:13.) Then we shall be happy Christians."Questions:These verses highlight the topics of fasting, worldliness, and singleness of purpose. In considering fasting, Ryle says that there is no command in the NT which seems to leave it upon to each person to be firmly convinced in their own mind and not to hastily condemn others. As for its purpose, Ryle declares that it is the "occasional abstinence from food in order to bring the body into subjection to the spirit." That said, have we ever considered it? If not, why not? If you have, did it help you and how? The second consideration is of worldliness, which is to find our happiness in this world that is passing away. The first question we need to consider is whether we are aware that worldliness is, as Ryle says, "a treacherous, harmful, enticing and powerful enemy" that is a rock that makes shipwreck for many for all eternity? Is this surprising to you? Are our affections on the things of earth or the things of heaven? The last consideration is on singleness of purpose, which Ryle calls the one great secret of spiritual prosperity. The opposite is trying to serve Christ and the world together, which is something Jesus says cannot be done. And so, when we try, it creates Christians who are uncomfortable, uneasy, and dissatisfied with themselves. Is this you? Are you trying to be a servant of Christ and of the world?

Matthew 6:9-15The first sentence declares to whom we are to pray--"Our Father in heaven."The second sentence is a petition respecting God's name--"Hallowed be your name."The third sentence is a petition concerning God's kingdom--"Your kingdom come." The fourth sentence is a petition concerning God's will—“Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven."The fifth sentence is a petition respecting our own daily needs--"give us this day our daily bread."The sixth sentence is a petition respecting our sins--"Forgive us our debts."The seventh sentence is a profession respecting our own feelings towards others--we ask our Father to "forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors."The eighth sentence is a petition respecting our weakness--"lead us not into temptation."The ninth sentence is a petition respecting our dangers--"deliver us from evil." The last sentence is an ascription of praise--"yours is the kingdom, the power, and the glory." "Perhaps no part of Scripture is so full, and so simple at the same time, as this. It is the first prayer which we learn to offer up, when we are little children. Here is its simplicity. It contains the germ of everything which the most advanced saint can desire. Here is its fullness.""May we resolve that, by God's help, our hearts shall go together with our lips! Happy is he who can really call God his Father through Jesus Christ his Savior, and can therefore say a heart felt "Amen" to all that the Lord's Prayer contains."Questions:We have read the Lord's Prayer - which may be better called the Disciples Prayer. If you grew up in the church, there is a good chance you know it as it is one of the most famous parts of Scripture. And yet, as Ryle warns, many repeat these words and do not consider what they are saying; they do not care for the 'glory,' the 'kingdom,' or the 'will of God;' they have no sense of dependence, sinfulness, weakness, or danger. Where do you stand when it comes to this prayer? Is it a just something you repeat, or does each part inform your prayers? Which of the 10 lines do you need to grow in the most?If you do not know this prayer, would you consider memorizing it and letting it inform your prayers? I was greatly encouraged years ago that one of the reasons we should pray this prayer is that Jesus is informing us about the very things God delights to answer. If you are at all interested, you can find a very helpful sermon series HERE.

Matthew 6:1-8Observe that our Lord takes it for granted, that all who call themselves His disciples will GIVE ALMS.Observe again that our Lord takes it for granted, that all who call themselves His disciples will PRAY.In GIVING, everything pretentiousness is to be abhorred and avoided.In PRAYING, the principal object to be sought, is to be alone with God.In all our duties, whether giving, or praying, the great thing to be kept in mind is, that we have to do with a heart-searching and all-knowing God."A giving Savior should have giving disciples.""It teaches plainly that prayerless people are not genuine Christians. It is not enough to join in the prayers of the congregation on Sundays, or attend the prayer of a family on week-days. There must be private prayer also. Without this we may be outward members of Christ's church, but we are not living members of Christ.""They flatter themselves that all must be right with their souls, if they only perform a certain amount of "religious duties." They forget that God does not regard the quantity, but the quality of our service. His favor is not to be bought, as many seem to suppose, by the formal repetition of a number of words, or the self-righteous payment of a sum of money to a charitable institution."Questions:In these verses Jesus tells us of two actions he assumes true believers will do, giving and prayer, and speaks to how they are to be done. God takes no account of how much money we give or how many words we use in prayer, but the nature of our motives. The question we need to ask ourselves then is simple: as it pertains to giving, is there a desire in my heart to be generous with what God has given me? In my giving, do I desire for others to see? As Ryle says, "a giving Savior should have giving disciples."It is also assumed in this passage that God's people will pray. So, as it pertains to prayer, do we have a desire to pray? When we pray, do we have a heart that God is the one we are talking to?Now, questions like this tend to produce in most feelings of inadequacy. The truth is that these are important things to consider. Where we fall short - and we all fall short of what we should - the question is: will this produce in us a desire to grow or to give up? Will you simply try harder or look again to Christ and all he has done on your behalf?

Matthew 5:38-48The Lord Jesus forbids everything like an unforgiving and revengeful spirit.The Lord Jesus enjoins on us a spirit of universal love and charity.If we do not aim at the spirit and temper which are here recommended, we are not yet children of God and are manifestly yet of the world.If the spirit of these ten verses were more continually remembered by true believers, they would recommend Christianity to the world far more than they do.If the spirit of these ten verses had more dominion and power in the world, how much happier the world would be than it is."We are to put up with much and bear much, rather than hurt another, or give offence. In all things we are to be unselfish. Our thought must never be, "how do others behave to me?" but "what would Christ have me to do?"""We have here a lovely picture of the Christian as he ought to be. We cannot look at it without painful feelings. We must all allow that it differs widely from the Christian as he is.""Unfailing courtesy, kindness, tenderness, and consideration for others, are some of the greatest ornaments to the character of the child of God. The world can understand these things, if it cannot understand doctrine. There is no religion in rudeness, roughness, bluntness, and incivility. The perfection of practical Christianity consists in attending to the little duties of holiness as well as to the great.""Those who fancy that true religion has any tendency to make men unhappy, are greatly mistaken. It is the absence of it that does this, and not the presence."Questions:Jesus points out two sayings that would have been common - "An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth" and "You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy" - and declares what God desires. The Christian is called to not resist the one who is evil (of which Jesus gives numerous examples) and love our enemies. The standard is high because the standard is found in Jesus himself. And yet, as Ryle points out, we must not aim for anything less because these things are evidence of having the Spirit. And so, he asks some negative diagnostic questions: am I ready to resent hurts against me? Am I quick to be offended by others? Am I quick to quarrel and fight with others? Do I delight to assert my rights? He then asks some positive questions: Do I return good when others do evil to me? Do I bless when cursed? Do I deny myself and take troubles in order to be kind? As Ryle says, these pictures give a lovely picture of what the Christian ought to be. Do we have some semblance of this picture?Ryle, in considering these standards, states that the world would be far happier if the spirit of these verses had more power and dominion in the world. He says, "Those who fancy that true religion has any tendency to make men unhappy, are greatly mistaken. It is the absence of it that does this, and not the presence." Do we believe that loving our enemies and patiently enduring evil are God being a killjoy or actually what will bring joy to us and a lost world?

Matthew 5:21-37Jesus expounds the sixth, seventh, and third commandments.It teaches us the exceeding holiness of God.It teaches us the exceeding ignorance of man in spiritual things.It teaches us the exceeding need of the Lord Jesus Christ's atoning blood to save us.It teaches us the exceeding importance of avoiding all occasions of sin."Ignorance of the real meaning of the law is one plain reason why so many do not value the Gospel, and content themselves with a little formal Christianity. They do not see the strictness and holiness of God's Ten commandments. If they did, they would never rest until they were safe in Christ.""We must labor to crucify our flesh and mortify our members, to make any sacrifice and endure any bodily inconvenience rather than sin."Questions:We see that Jesus speaks to the sixth, seventh, and third commandment and gets to the heart of their meaning. Many in Jesus' day, and in ours as well, may think that because we have never murdered or committed adultery with our actions that we are innocent. Jesus, though, declares that murder and adultery are issues of the heart, which God sees just as clear as we see ourselves in a mirror. Hateful thoughts and lustful glances are not missed by the God who knows all things and is personally offended by each one. Have we read the 10 Commandments and walked away encouraged thinking we are good or have we read them and understood that we fall short of them all? Which of us, getting to the heart of Jesus' meaning, could declare ourselves innocent?Ryle, in light of the severity of the law, calls all Christians to avoid all occasions of sin. He applies this particularly with the use of our tongues, with James tell us is a restless evil and full of deadly poison. He exhorts us to be ready to make up quarrels and disagreements, lest they gradually lead on to greater evils. Stop and consider that for a second. Have you found that to be true in your own life? When he says, "we must make any sacrifice and endure any bodily inconvenience rather than sin" does that sound too harsh? Or does that sound like a foreign idea? What could this look like in your life?

Matthew 5:13-20True Christians are to be in the world like salt and light.Beware of despising the Old Testament under any pretense whatsoever.Beware of despising the law of the Ten Commandments.Beware of supposing that the Gospel has lowered the standard of personal holiness."It will never do to idle through life, thinking and living like others, if we mean to be owned by Christ as His people. Have we grace? Then it must be seen. Have we the Spirit? Then there must be fruit. Have we any saving religion? Then there must be a difference of habits, tastes, and turn of mind, between us and those who think only of the world.""The religion of the Old Testament is the embryo of Christianity. The Old Testament is the Gospel in the bud. The New Testament is the Gospel in full flower. The Old Testament is the Gospel in the blade. The New Testament is the Gospel in full ear. The saints in the Old Testament saw many things through a glass darkly. But they all looked by faith to the same Savior, and were led by the same Spirit as ourselves.""The law of the Ten Commandments is God's eternal measure of right and wrong. By it, is the knowledge of sin. By it, the Spirit shows men their need of Christ, and drives them to Him. To it, Christ refers His people as their rule and guide for holy living. In its right place it is just as important as "the glorious Gospel."""The Christian who is content with a low standard of personal holiness has got much to learn."Questions:The Lord Jesus declares that those who follow him will be salt and light in the world, which Ryle highlights means that Christians must be distinct from the world. He says, "Have we grace? Then it must be seen. Have we the Spirit? Then there must be fruit. Have we any saving religion? Then there must be a difference of habits, tastes, and turn of mind, between us and those who think only of the world." If you are in Christ, what makes you distinct from those around you in your school or workplace or family? In what ways has belonging to Christ changed you?In our day as in Ryle's, there are many who despise or cast aside the Old Testament. One way this is done even in the New Testament is when some consider the 'red letters' that is, the words that are recorded by Jesus, as more authoritative than the rest of Scripture. Yet, Ryle rightly says that "the religion of the Old Testament is the embryo of Christianity." Yes, we need to read the Old Testament rightly in light of the New Testament and it being fulfilled, but Leviticus is no less authoritative than John 3:16. Does this point come to you as shocking or as surprising that anyone would think otherwise? Is this an area you need to consider further?Ryle points out that the 10 Commandments bring knowledge of sin, shows us our need for Christ, and also are the Christians guide for holy living. This is summed up nicely by someone who has said, "The law brings us to Christ for salvation, and then Christ brings us to the law for how to live." Throughout history, there has been a tendency to either try to be saved by obeying the law - legalism - or thinking that in Christ we no longer have anything to do with the law - antinomianism. Which one of these do you tend to side toward and struggle with the most?

Matthew 5:1-12"Would we know what kind of people Christians ought to be? Would we know the character at which Christians ought to aim? Would we know the outward walk and inward habit of mind which become a follower of Jesus? Then let us often study the sermon on the mount.""Christianity is eminently a practical religion. Sound doctrine is its root and foundation, but holy living should always be its fruit."Questions:We have here the opening to the sermon on the mount, which consists of 8 characteristics that Jesus calls blessed. As you listened to them, I trust you will agree with the pastor who said that we need to be told these things are blessed because it certainly doesn't feel like it! Ryle declares that these are the things we should compare ourselves to, that the world utterly rejects, and that many professing Christians are ignorant of. As you consider being poor in spirit, mourning, meekness, hungering and thirsting for righteousness, being merciful, being pure in heart, peacemaking and persecution, which ones do you struggle with the most? Why? Which ones do you need to go to God with for more grace?