What Will Your Response Be?

Today’s Reading: Matthew 22:15-46

Questions, questions, questions! The disciples of the Pharisees, the Herodians, the Sadducees, the Pharisees and an expert in the law all asked questions of Jesus with the intent to find fault with him. So did they? You tell me. After reading these scriptures a few times something jumped out at me---not their questions, not even Jesus’ response, but it was their final response in each situation that caught my attention. Go back and look at verses 22, 33, and 46.

When they heard this, they were amazed. So they left him and went away. (vs. 22)
When the crowds heard this, they were astonished at his teaching. (vs. 33)
No one could say a word in reply, and from that day on no one dared to ask him any more questions. (vs. 46)

Really? These people that were trying to trap Jesus with his own words were amazed, astonished, and eventually could not even reply back after his responses? Now, don’t get me wrong, Jesus’ responses were beautiful and there are many lessons that can be learned from his responses. To be honest, in the past that is what I would generally focus on, what Jesus had to say, but God opened my eyes to something new here, something that I had never even thought of until now. So now what do you think, could they find fault with him? Why were they so amazed and astonished at his response? Why could they go no further with the questions? One word----Truth! He spoke the truth and that was it---he stood on the foundation of truth that God set in place---he never wavered and that I believe is why they were so amazed.

I have often said that I am not good at putting my spiritual excitement into words and that is how I feel now. I feel like God is opening up my heart to something new and exciting. I feel like me heart is running a race all through my spirit. I believe that God is reminding us that the truth truly does set you free! Jesus’ reaction to all these people that questioned him was not in anger. He even knew their intentions, yet he responded with integrity. His response is what made the difference. Our response should be no different. People will come against us, people will attack us, people will do us wrong---but it is our response that makes the difference. We are to stand on truth and just like Jesus, not waver! The people around us will see who we serve through our response. As I respond in truth I want people to see Christ in me and be amazed!