Scripture can be likened to layered seasoning: there is meaning above the obvious that can be found through context and study. In his ministry, Jesus preaches about the kingdom of God and then shows what is all about. Matthew 4 discusses the idea of telling others about Christ and calling them to follow him. In order to imitate the ministry of Jesus, we need to be in the right place to do so; both personally and as a church. However, like any good recipe, we need to make sure that we are working intentionally and that the timing is right in order for things to turn out best.

Matthew 4:12-25

Jesus was very intentional in how he lived his life. For Jesus, the timing was very important. This is the start of Jesus’ ministry, right when his cousin John was put into prison. Jesus was calling his disciples to follow him and to fish for people. We don’t have to be an expert to tell people about Jesus. Jesus took care of people who were hurting in the community. 

As a church, we need to become less nomadic. We need to be in a place where we are helping others to come to Jesus. How are we doing in the area of following Jesus? There is power when we come together as a community. We all need God. It does not matter what others think of us, but rather what Jesus thinks of us. 

Matthew 11:1-11

When we are going through a rough time we can often wonder if it’s worth following Jesus. We all stumble in our faith and go through challenges. It s difficult, but it’s better to battle the challenges with Jesus than without Jesus. We need to pray that our eyes are open and that we will respond to the message of Christ.