Matthew Chapter 22
The previous chapter begins a new section in Matthew, where Jesus shows His authority in Jerusalem, from His triumphant entry to the cleansing of the temple.
From Matthew 21:23-27, we see the authority of Jesus questioned by the chief priests and the elders. Jesus then used 3 parables to rebuke the Jews and address those who were challenging His authority.
Verses 1 to 14
This chapter begins with the parable of the wedding feast, which is the third of such parables (the first is the parable of the two sons, the second is the parable of the tenants).
Following this parable is a series of exchanges between Jesus and the Pharisees, the Sadducees, and a lawyer. In this whole section from Matthew 21:23-22:46, we can see how Jesus addresses those who challenged Him and demonstrates His authority.
The parable of the wedding feast tells of how the salvation grace which was initially given to the Jews, is now given to the gentiles because the Jews rejected the invitation to the feast.
Today, we know that a great spiritual feast awaits us when we return to our heavenly home. However, while we are still on earth, we can already partake of this spiritual feast whenever we worship Him in church!
Romans 11:17-24 warns us that branches were broken off that we as wild olive shoots may be grafted in. If we do not stand fast in our faith, we too will be cut off.
The last part of the parable reminds us that having a wedding garment is required to enter the wedding hall and join in the feast, or we will be cast out into the outer darkness.
From Revelations 19:8, we know that the wedding garment that we refers to the righteous deeds of the saints. How does one be righteous? We first have to be baptised and have our sins washed away. We then have to strive to be transformed by the Holy Spirit and be renewed. We have to put off our old selves and put on the new man created according to God in true righteousness (Eph 4:22-24).
Let us ask ourselves, do I desire to partake of this spiritual feast? Do I look forward to the coming marriage supper of the lamb? Do I strive to become a better Christian and be more like Christ each day?
Or have I taken this great grace that I have received for granted?
Jesus says in verse 14 that many are called, but few are chosen. Today, we are in the true church, in His salvation grace. Let us continue to press towards the goal of eternal life, working out our salvation with fear and trembling. Let us continue to nurture ourselves spiritually, rely on His word and the Holy Spirit to transform us to be more like Christ.
Verses 15 to 40
Jesus then answers three questions posed to him by the Pharisees, the Sadducees, and a lawyer. The Pharisee asked Jesus about paying taxes to Caesar, to entangle Him in His words. They were hoping Jesus would say something to incriminate Himself, that they can use to bring Him before the Romans.
However, Jesus demonstrates His wisdom and authority in giving an answer that would neither offend the Jews nor the Romans.
The Sadducees questioned Jesus about the resurrection, using the example of brothers marrying the widow of their elder brother, thinking that they have found a contradiction to disprove resurrection.
However, Jesus replies them saying that the Sadducees knew neither the Scriptures nor the power of God. They did not fully understand the resurrection. The Sadducees only believed in the Torah, which is why Jesus used the Torah to prove the resurrection to them. If there was no resurrection of the dead, then the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob would be the God of the dead!
Finally, a lawyer asks Jesus what the great commandment in the Law is, in order to test Him. Apparently at that time, there was an ongoing debate on which commandments were “lighter” and which were “weightier”.
Jesus answers that loving God with all our heart, soul and mind is the first and great commandment, while the second is loving our neighbours as ourselves. Love indeed is a central theme in the Bible. It is because of love, that Jesus died on the cross for us. His love compels us to worship and serve Him, and to love one another.
From these interactions, we can see the authority of Jesus from how He addressed their attempts to find fault with Him. His responses astonished them, as they marvelled at His wisdom and authority.
Today, how well do we know the scriptures and the power of God? Do we humbly submit ourselves to His teachings and accept them?
Indeed, it is not easy to keep His word as it requires us to deny ourselves and make some form of sacrifice (e.g. keeping the Sabbath, marrying within church). However, rather than reject His words, let us remember how great His love is for us and submit to Him, having faith that He knows our needs and will provide for us.
Verses 41 to 46
After answering these questions, it was now time for Jesus to ask His question. Jesus quotes Psalm 110:1, which is a Messianic Psalm. The Messiah/Christ means the Anointed One.
The Jews have been eagerly waiting the coming of the Messiah, believing that He will restore the kingdom to Israel as they were under foreign rule. Jesus asks why the Messiah/Christ, also known as the Son of David, would be called Lord by David. As David’s descendant, how can the Messiah, be greater than him? Since when is someone lesser than his own descendant?
From here, we can see that Jesus proves His authority by quoting the Psalms to show that this Messiah they have been waiting for will be even greater than David, a well-respected king. In fact, this Messiah is God Himself! The Pharisees and Jewish leaders often questioned the authority of Jesus whenever He taught others, performed miracles, cast out demons, and forgave sins.
However, Jesus Himself has testified that He is the Messiah (i.e. greater than David, and is God Himself) on multiple occasions, and it is by this authority that He does all these things!
Do we recognise that the Jesus is God? In our lives, do we acknowledge His authority?
Do we submit to His kingship and let Him lead?
