Bible Chapter: Matthew 20

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
    The invitation to be a part of God’s kingdom is open to all.  God is always reaching out to people to invite them to come in and work for Him.  Even if someone has a death-bed conversion, they have the full privilege to be with the Lord for eternity.  There are no super-stars in God’s place and He expects us to work faithfully for Him after we are saved.  There is to be no jealousy among believers.  If we could be fully successful in this one area, (getting rid of jealousy) the church would be much stronger and effective.
    An illustration of jealousy came up when the mother of James and John went to Jesus asking for a special favor.  She wanted her boys to get special treatment and a unique place in His kingdom.  This caused jealousy among the twelve.  Jesus used this teaching moment to let them, and us, know that greatness in God’s work is different from the rest of the world.  Greatness is the one who serves others.  It has nothing to do with position and fame or status.  It has everything to do with humility and faithfulness to do what pleases God.  Greatness doesn’t draw attention to one’s self.  Greatness serves for God’s glory and lets God deal with reward.
    Jesus pointed out one issue that is usually ignored when people seek position and recognition in the church.  Jesus asked of they could drink the cup He would have to drink.  They were sure they could. This thought of drinking the cup deals with the suffering and struggles that come with the great spiritual battles that lead to spiritual victories.  They may seem like a simple thing to endure before they come.  While the battle is going on many have succumbed to the struggle and given up.

2. What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    The cup that Jesus was facing was His death.  Jesus told the disciples that He would be betrayed.  It wasn’t enough that Jesus would have to die, it included betrayal.  I think the thought of betrayal multiplies the horror and suffering Jesus faced.  Those who are close to you are the ones who should protect and support.  Anything less is betrayal.
    A famous character from TV was The Lone Ranger.  He was a Texas Ranger who survived a massacre of Rangers and decided he would work for truth and justice in the wild west.  He wore the mask to protect his identity.  Many wondered who he was and wanted to get the mask off him.  The one person who stood by him, faithfully, through all they experienced was Tonto.  His commitment of friendship and faithfulness to his friend was legendary.  He never betrayed the masked man.
    When a person receives Jesus as their Savior, they make a commitment to Him.  They make Jesus the Lord of life.  Lord means Jesus is the Authority in life.  He is holy, loving, gracious and merciful.  He is worthy of commitment and faithfulness and must never be betrayed.  It is unthinkable that one who commits their life to Jesus would let the deceptions of evil cause them to walk away.  Sadly, many have done this.  A very good practical application is to think of all Jesus has done for us and how much He is worthy of our faithfulness to Him.

3.  How can I help someone?
    People need to see Jesus, not religious form and ritual.  They need to see Him as the One who showed the greatest love in the world.  Instead of thinking only of becoming religious and going through a routine, they need to see Jesus as the loving change-agent who makes them new and gives purpose for life.  I need to reflect Him in such a way that people are drawn to HIM.