Matthew 7:28 – 8:1

²⁸ And after Jesus had completed these words, the crowds were overwhelmed at his teaching,

²⁹ because he was teaching them as someone who had the right to do so, and not like their scribes had taught.

^8:1 After he came down from the mountain, many crowds followed him. _________________________________________

The Sky Kingdom and following Jesus

The sermon on the mount was a masterpiece, but as the crowds recognized, there was something about Jesus himself that compelled people to follow him.

They attributed his attraction to the fact that he was not just spouting off a bunch of quotes that someone else in authority had said. Jesus’ words themselves were important because of who he was. He had the right to command them.

He has the right to command us. He is God’s Son and God’s anointed. He has the right to demand our obedience. Yet he comes to us as a preacher, and reasons with us. He explains to us why we should do what he says. He does not have to do that. He does it because he loves us, and wants us to share in his coming kingdom.

LORD, we confess that we too often overlook your commands as if we have the right to choose which to obey, and which to neglect. Thank you for reminding us that you are the king. Thank you for lovingly drawing us to yourself.