Daily Bible Reading – September 2023, God’s Saving Word: WisdomSample

September 9

Introduction

The religious leaders demand that Jesus perform a miracle, and Jesus speaks of what happens when an evil spirit returns. Today's passage concludes with Jesus offering a definition of what constitutes family in God’s Kingdom.

Scripture Reading

Matthew 12:38-50

Today’s Key Verse: Matthew 12:50

[Jesus said:] “Whoever does what my Father in heaven wants is my brother, my sister, and my mother.”

Reflect

In demanding a miracle, the religious leaders are indicating their resistance to Jesus's teachings and Jesus's identity as the Son of God. Responding to their demand, Jesus cites the story of Jonah (see Jonah 1—4) and how the people of Nineveh repented and turned from their sins. Why do you think Jesus used this example when responding to the religious leaders? What does Jesus say is the basis for belonging to the family of God (verse 50)?

Pray

Loving Jesus, thank you for welcoming me into God’s Kingdom and for calling me to be a member of your family. May I grow day by day in your grace and do your will so that all I say and do brings glory to you. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Matthew 13:1-17: Jesus teaches about the Kingdom of heaven by means of a parable.