The Gospel of Matthew
Session 34 – 10/12/2014
Fr. John Codis
14:28; 15:1-9
Collapse and Recovery, the Ministry of Christ, Clean and Unclean,
Breaking God’s law to keep man’s law
Opening thoughts and basis for discussion
- We cannot jump in feet first without knowing where our feet will land. It is necessary to consider all things then speak or make a decision.
- Preach the Gospel always, help those in need, never refuse to help, use words if necessary.
- Keep love in all things and to all things; to God and to his people.
Consider all the facts!
We too often act on impulse and without facing the situation and considering the cost; looking at a situation in all its bleak grimness before acting (Luke 9:57, 58; Matthew 16:24, 25).
Through our failures we can become closer to Christ. Although we fall from time to time, we are not perfect; Christ never falls and is perfect.
In every time of storm and stress, the presence of Christ and the love which flows from the Cross bring peace and serenity and calm.
“Preach the Gospel at all times, and if necessary use words” – St. Francis of Assisi
Christ always was visiting and healing people; he never refused to help! There are no words that replace an act or deed.
One of the most tremendous characteristics of Jesus is that he “taught men what God was like by showing men what God was like. He did not tell men that God cared; He showed men that God cared.”
We always want the privileges of being Christian but never its responsibilities.
Do not make up the Gospel and speak falsities
“The issue of transgressing the traditions of the elders had gotten so inverted that they were insisting that their own commandments be kept even if God’s commandment was violated.” Chrysostom.
“Not what goes into the mouth defiles a man; but what comes out of the mouth, this defiles a man.” The Orthodox Study Bible