The Bible, it's the word of God. Sharper than any two edged sword. This sacred book is living and active and contains all that's needed for life and godliness. Stay with American Family Radio for the next hour as we study God's word and take your Bible questions. Welcome to Exploring the Word.
In Matthew, chapter 21, there's a very famous miracle. It's an unusual miracle, frankly kind of a sad miracle, but it's, it's part of the journey of Christ entering into Jerusalem and it's the withering of the fig tree. Now, it's very significant. We're going to get into this and more, but we welcome you to today's edition of Exploring the Word and Praise God. Another week of looking at scripture and also taking your Bible questions, which, we'll do later on in the show. But if you're at a place where you can get a copy of scripture, turn to Matthew 21. Now Bert, when I'm on the road speaking, especially at our youth camps, and I always ask the audiences, especially youth, I'll say, now, Matthew, is that old or NewSong Testament? And of course everybody says NewSong Testament. And I say, good answer. But, it's good to be with you, brother Bert. And welcome to another week of Exploring the Word.
It is good and we're looking forward to continuing in Matthew. There's 28 chapters. We're in chapter 21, but this last few chapters is the last week of Jesus, plus the ascension. And we're going to look at this and again, chapter 21 is one of those that, some significant things happen besides the one that you were talking about, the parable, there's going to be the issue of authority. And Alex, I found out a lot of people are, are more interested in power than they are truth. And we're going to get to that. But before we do, let me start reading in verse 18 here. And this I'll read 18 through 22 because it is the whole story concerning this miracle. Now, in the morning, as Jesus returned to the city, he was hungry and seeing a fig tree by the road, he came to it and found nothing on it but leaves, and said to it, let no fruit grow on you ever again. Immediately. And that's a key word. The fig tree withered away. Now, when the disciples saw it, they marveled. They wondered, saying, how did the fig tree wither away so soon? So Jesus answered and said to them, assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you'll not only do what was done to the fig tree. But also it. If you say to this mountain, be removed and be cast into the sea, it will be done. And all things, whatever you ask in prayer, believing you will receive. Alex. Now, before we get into Jesus teaching, I'm just amazed. His power over wind, over water, over death, over animals. He rode the donkey into the colt that had never been ridden into Jerusalem. you see this, and it's all in Matthew. And Matthew is showing us. One of the many things he shows us is the authority of the Lord Jesus Christ. And even in this miracle that you said has got some, negative part to it, but it's a negative that demonstrates, I think what people should do. his authority is complete and sufficient, isn't it?
Well, it really is. And it's been said that the withering of the fig tree is really Christ's saddest miracle. So there's no fruit. And he says in verse 19, there let no fruit grow on thee henceforth forever. And presently or immediately, the fig tree withered away. And when the disciples saw it, they marveled, saying, how soon is the fig tree withered away? And Jesus answered and said unto them, verily I say unto you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you shall do not only this which was done to the fig tree, but also if you shall say to this mountain, be thou removed and be thou cast into the sea, it shall be done. let's talk about the fig tree because. And what I'm about to say in no way is anti Semitic. I mean, if you listen to this program much at all, you realize how much we love the Jewish people. We support Israel. But in reality, as the Bible says, he came unto his own, and his own received him not. And shortly after this, not too many years later, there would be the dispersion. And for more than 1900 years, there would be no nation of Israel. And, now there have been throughout history many, many, many Jewish believers in Messiah. But, Bert, the fig tree representing Israel, it says Christ said, you know, your house is left desolate. That's the significance. And again, it's not anti Semitic, but it's just a fact. Christ came to the nation of Israel. He was Jewish himself, and he was not received. He was rejected. And that symbolizes that this, this moment, of decision resulted in the withering of the fig tree and the hand of God being lifted from Israel for that moment.
And it really does. And again, it just demonstrates the area of unfruitfulness, when everything's been given to you in order to do what God has called you to do as an individual, as a church, and you do not do that. God's given it to you. why, why keep it? And again, they rejected him. And so listen, and this going to get to the rest of the chapter and Even part of 2022 about how this works. And, and matter of fact, I'm going to read verse 45, and then we'll go back to 23. But this demonstrates what we're talking about, about what Jesus was teaching with his parables and even the miracle. And. And now when the chief priests and Pharisees heard Jesus parables, they perceived that he was speaking of them. they finally got it, okay, and so this is the idea, but he moves on. Now, again, these. When he came into the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people confronted him. This is their territory. And as he was teaching, and said, and I'm going to try to put the inflection on it, by what authority are you doing these things? And who gave you this authority? Again, power over truth. Now, here's the great thing about Jesus Christ. It's truth with power. He's going to tell them all power has been given unto you. And it's the truth of who Jesus is, what he did, what, where he is even today. And so here it is, what we want to do as believers and followers of Christ is make sure truth. But with that truth, the Holy Spirit of God and the word of God has authority. So, Alex, they want to know by what authority. So Jesus answered and said to them also, we ask you one thing. Which of you, if you tell me, I, likewise tell you by what authority I do these things. The baptism of Jon, where was it from? From heaven or from men? They reasoned, among themselves, saying, if we say from heaven, he'll say to us, why then do you not believe? But if we say from men, we fear the multitude, for all count Jon as a prophet. So they answered and said, we do not know. Wow. And Jesus said, then I will not tell you and answer your question. Alex. Here it is again. most of the time they tried to trick Jesus Christ with questions. And again, this is a little bit tricky, but honestly, by what authority does he do these things? Alex? Does he have authority to, do the things that he said concerning the temple, concerning what he said about the Jewish nation?
Well, Jesus Christ being God incarnate, the maker of the universe, the giver of written revelation, the one who called Abraham the voice from the burning bush. The one who has control the elements, the one who knows the hearts of all men, and the one, according to Colossians, who actually holds the matter of the universe together. By him all things consist. Almighty God is exactly that. Almighty and God. And so Jesus has all the authority. And m. Let me just say I've been asked this question before. To say that marriage is between a man and a woman, only to say that males cannot transition and become females. To say that Jesus Christ is the one and only savior. what authority does the church have to say such truths? Well, we are sanctioned by, assigned by, commissioned by God. And so, yeah, I'll grant you, in and of ourselves, we don't have authority. But there's two words, Bert. Exousia and dunamis. I'm sure many people have heard preachers preach about dunamis, from which we get the word dynamite. And that's ability, power. But exousia is authority. Power. And that word is in Matthew 28, 1820. but Jesus absolutely has the authority to pass judgment on the spiritual condition of all people. Jesus absolutely has authority. He made this world. He gave his life for our redemption. as has often been said, we are twice bought. We were created, we are redeemed, if you're a believer in him. And by the way, Bert, let me just say this, and we'll get back to Matthew 28. But Exousia is authority and dunamis is ability. Satan has a little bit of dunamis. Satan has some powers, but he has no exousia. He is a trespasser. And I think we should get great confidence in that. That, as the creation of God and the redeemed of the Lord, Satan has no authority in our lives. And let's not let him have one toehold of ground.
Amen. No authority here, Satan. No authority here. Now, what's going to happen now to the end of this, chapter, is Jesus parables concerning two sons and a landowner. And each one of these, and this is why it goes to verse 45. The Pharisees and scribes finally understand. The chief priests and Pharisees understand, hey, he's talking about us. And it is. He has two sons. And the Father tells them to go and do a, work. The first one he does not, but then he does. The other one says, yes, I'll do it. It looks good, but then doesn't do it. Alex, Jesus is kind of comparing this issue of. And we'll get to it even more, thoroughly when we get to chapter 22 with the wedding, and those who come to the wedding, but Jesus is talking about those that the Pharisees, the chief priests and scribes, had said, you know, you're no good. Sort of like the Pharisee and the publican. The publican wasn't accepted, but. But Jesus is letting them know, hey, they may not have been first on board, but they received Jon and they are receiving me and you have not. And the condemnation for them is pretty, very severe, isn't it?
Well, it really is. It really is. And these parables, like you said earlier, Matthew, is a book of action. There's so much going on here. The entry into Jerusalem, the miracle of the cursing of the fig tree, the interaction here with the chief priests and elders. And then these parables about a householder with a vineyard, and he hedged it roundabout and digged a winepress in it and built a tower, and he let it out to husbandmen and went into a far country. Bert, like in verse 33. this is like the church that's been entrusted with the work of the world, or people rather. And when the time of the fruit drew near, he sent his servants to the husbandman that they might receive the fruits. But the husbandman took his servants and beat one, killed another, in a way, world history, the coming of Christ, the church age is depicted in this somewhat brief parable.
It is. And again, the Pharisees, man, they understood it was them because they killed the prophets, and they would not let hear Jon and they would kill Jesus. We'll be back with more here on Exploring the Word right after this break. Hello, I'm Bert Harper. Did you know that this content is listener supported? Without people like you, this podcast would not exist. That's why we need you. A generous monthly gift of any amount will sustain American Family Radio and specifically this podcast. Please consider becoming a monthly financial partner today by visiting afr.net give that's afr.net give
the Lord is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. The Lord is good to everyone. He showers compassion on all his creation. Psalm 145, 8, 9.
I got stolen by the grave Pick me up from that rock bottom Watch my soul in that holy water Brought me back to life
One more stone
rolled away no more sin I've been saved by grace. This dead man, he ain't dead no longer all because of
Amen. We hope you know this Lord Jesus Christ he is Lord. Well, Alex, afa AFR loves the family and we have so much that's available to adults that they can go to our resource center and see. But we also have Activate. But something new that's being introduced is Activate for Kids. We had Kendra White on last week. On Thursday we interviewed her and she told us about it. We're excited about it as it starts talking about something that is really important that you have spent a lot of your ministry, involving and that is defending the faith. Apologetics. How you like that? Apologetics for children at Activate. This is exciting, isn't it?
Well, it really is. And I, I want to encourage people to go on and watch this trailer about Biblical worldview. Tr. It's called AFA Activate Activate Kids now the website and I'll give this a time or two, activate afa.net and in this biblical worldview, training for children and by the way the graphics, everything is world class and it is just thoroughly based on God's word. There's a biblical foundation for what we believe and how we live. That's worldview. The sanctity of human life imparting in children from a young age to value human life, the gift of life by God, marriage, family. Why this is just so foundational and important. And then even being a citizen, you know, I think about religious liberty and being engaged and being salt and light and yes, children can get this and they need to. And so go to AFA. I'm sorry, activate.afa.net and watch the trailer and you can get started. And Bert, the double blessing is yes, growing and nurturing our children in the word of God. But really the parents will grow as well. Any adult involved in this because the grownups and the children are getting God's word. And so these video lessons and the discussion guides, hands on activities. This is very important. And Bert, this, this counts for eternity. God's word in every little heart and mind. It does not return void, does it?
It does not. And it's called Again 101. It's, it's Bible 101. It's teaching why the Baba, the Bible has authority and you can get it for $40. And again go to activate kids.aca.net activate kids.aca.net and you'll find that. And honestly, we're excited about it. We talked about it this morning in a meeting that we were in and we're just pumped about what God is using and let me just share with you, more is to come. they already Got about four or five more of these ready to go as. As we, develop them as we send them out and make them available. So get started on the Bible 101. It activate kids. It will make a difference.
Amen. Amen. Well, we are in Matthew 21, and, sort of getting near the end of Matthew 28 chapters, but before the break, we were talking about when told the story of the husbandmen or the workers that were given the assignment, and they beat up the servants and they were taken over. And the landowner says, like in verse 37, I'm going to send my son. They will reverence my son. But when the husbandmen saw the son, they said among themselves, this is the heir. Come, let. It's just unthinkable. Let us kill him and seize on his inheritance. And they caught him and cast him out of the vineyard and slew him. Bert. What. What's so moving and touching is, as Christ is sharing this parable, very soon the. The son of the Father that would be executed, it would be Christ himself.
It is. And Jesus, put it on them in verse 41 asking, yes, he would. they said, he asked them, when the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to Those vinedressers? Verse 40, verse 41. They answered themselves, he'll destroy those wicked men miserably and lease this vineyard to other vinedressers who will render to him the fruits of their seasons. Listen. Looked like they'd have, picked up on it then, but they finally did that. He was referring to them. And Jesus used the scripture. And this is one of the greatest scriptures in Old Testament concerning Messiah. And it's found in again, Psalm 118, verses 22, 23. The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone. This was the Lord's doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes. Therefore, I say to you, the kingdom of God will be taken from you and given to a nation bearing the fruits of it. And whoever falls on this stone will be broken. But to whomever it falls, it will grind him to powder. Alex, What a pronouncement again. And the truth of this is not only with Israel, it is the truth for anyone. Listen. Do not reject that stone. That stone is Jesus Christ. He is the rock. He's the foundation. And if that happens, the stone will crush them. strong words, but true words as well, right?
That's true. And this is from Psalm 118, this quotation written about a thousand years before the birth of Christ. Now, here's the thing. Verse 45 and 46. When the chief priests and Pharisees heard his parables, they perceived that he spoke of them. But when they sought to lay hands on him, they feared the multitude because they took him for a prophet. You know, for one thing, Bert, you know, the crowds of people, that understood, okay, Christ is the Messiah, we're going to believe on him. And there were some of the, educated religious leaders I think about, like Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea. but here's the thing. Coming to Christ and getting it, understanding, okay, Christ is the only one who rose from the dead. I am a sinner. I need his forgiveness. I'm going to put my faith in Jesus, Bert. it's not about how educated a person is or isn't. It's certainly not about how much wealth or position a person may have or may not have. It's about the honesty and humility of the human heart before God and the fact that these religious leaders were scheming and plotting, and they wanted to kill Jesus. But they feared the multitude who, like Jon the Baptist, they believed Jon the Baptist was a prophet. And many and in growing numbers, they believed Jesus was the Messiah, the redeemer, and the scheming and looking for a way to get the Romans to kill Jesus. And they wanted Jesus executed, but they didn't want their hands dirtied by their crime. It just shows how deceitful, duplicitous, and darkened the human heart can be.
And he does not stop. He continues. Chapter 22. Again, Jesus answered and spoke to them again by parables and said this. The kingdom of heaven is like a certain king who arranged a marriage for a son and sent out his servants to call those who were invited to the wedding. And they were not willing to come. Wow, they were not willing. Again, he sent out servants saying, tell those who are invited, see, I have prepared my dinner, my oxen fatted, cattle are killed, and all things are ready. Come to the wedding. But they made light of it and went their ways, one to his own farm, another to his business, while the rest seized his servants, treated them spitefully, and killed them. Now, Alex, again, we'll get to the king's reaction in a moment. Jesus is painting the picture of how Israel has treated Christ. But again, there are some principles here, as you alluded to in the first segment, that look at our society today. Do not reject him. He's done it. He's ready. He's invited them. And people are saying, oh, I'm just going to Live my life on my farm. I'm going to live my life in my business. And matter of fact, they said there's nothing to this. They're mocking Christianity today. They're mocking the Bible as being myth and legend. But no, it is true, isn't it?
Well, it really is. And by the way, anybody who's ever been on church visitation, or we used to call it going out, soul winning, you have seen Matthew 22, verse 5. My translation says they made light of it. And the word really means to be dismissive of something or to pay no attention. And let me just say the call to come, to Christ while you have an opportunity. Don't make light of that. Don't be dismissive. Says they went their ways, plural. Bert, there's 10,000 ways to be lost. There's one way to be saved, and that's through faith in Jesus. But that, you know, when they said, I've got a banquet, a dinner, and you're invited, but they made light of it. and we've seen many, many, many people come to Christ. But I've seen a lot of people brush it off, too. And that reminds me of some of those times that, Isn't your heart heavy if somebody just kind of brushes it off? Because, you know, the one doing the visitation cares more about their soul than maybe even the listener does.
It is so true. And again, observed, been there. I remember being in a home years ago, and, they would not turn the television. They invited us in and didn't invite us to sit down. So I stood up and, I noticed his attention. And I did move purposely between he and the tv, thinking, well, I might get his attention that way. And he said, would you please move? And I, said, well, sir, I appreciate you letting us in. We had something we wanted to share with you. he said, no, I'm watching this TV program. Thank y' all for coming and see you later. Yeah, that. That was light compared to a lot that people have to do. But you, if you give your life to Christ, be ready to be mocked. If you give and you're serving him and you speak truth to others, get ready to say, oh, no. Get ready for that. That's part of it. And if they did that to Jesus, who do we think we are that that will not be treated, Will not be treated that way. And here again, they made light of it, went their ways. Now, there is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the ends thereof are the ways of death. Those of you who are listening, and you're saying, well, I'm going to do it my way. no, let me just tell you. The only way to do it is God's way. And he says, come unto me, all you who are weak and heavy laden. I'll give you rest. Take my yoke upon yourself and learn of me. For I'm meek and lowly in heart. I want to tell you Jesus Christ will change your life for. For the betterment for you. I didn't say it would be easy, didn't say it would be smooth sailing after that. But you'll have a friend that stays closer than a brother. So, Alex, we're saying to people who are listening, don't go your way, go God's way.
Amen. Amen. You know, I love how it says in verse, ten, you know, well, the Lord says, go into the highways and hedges, and as many as you find bid them to come to the marriage. So the servants went out into the highways, gathered together all the many as they found both bad and good. And the wedding was furnished with gifts. you know, there's an old song where it's very touching. There's room at the cross for you. Now, Heaven is going to be furnished the banquet table, the marriage supper of the lamb. It's going to be a grand gathering, but there is room for you, everybody listening. And, some of you might need to come to Christ today and make sure. Or maybe you need to come back to Christ. his arms are open. And Bert, aren't you glad that, the Bible says in Romans 10:13, whoever calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. that wedding, everyone's invited. Whosoever will may come. And maybe even somebody listening right now. The Holy Spirit is drawing you. You know, you need to get straight with God. He loves you. Jesus is as close by as a prayer. That wedding's going to be furnished with guests, and everybody's invited.
Everybody's invited. listen. And again, this is demonstrating why the church is today. Again, we're not preaching replacement theology, but the Jewish people placed in the right location, with the right message, with the right power. They did not fulfill it. And God says, hey, I'm going to share it with the nations. And the church was birthed there on Pentecost. And all these people from all the world would hear that gospel in their own language. And then the apostles would go out everywhere. And we see the message of Christ being shared, and it's everywhere, all the highways and gathering people in. And it says, notice this verse 10. And the wedding hall was filled with guests. But when the king came to see the guests, he saw one man in particular who did not have a wedding garment on. Now, again, I believe this is an individual. he just saw the crowd coming in and he joined them, but he wasn't a part of them. He didn't get the right, he did not have what was needed. Alex, with all my heart, you're not going to get into heaven just by saying, oh, yeah, I know about him. Yeah, I've joined the church. Yeah, I was baptized. No, it's got to have a relationship. God offers it, you must receive it. And he puts on us, quote, the robe of righteousness, doesn't he?
yeah, I like what you said. The robe of righteousness. Now, you might have a raincoat, you might have a, rugby shirt, or you might have ripped jeans. I'm thinking of things that start with R. There's one garment that you must own and possess, and you can't as the garment called righteousness. To get to the marriage supper and to know the bridegroom, that's what you have to be wearing. You can't be wearing good works. And we should live right and do right. But only the righteousness of Christ will get you into the door of heaven. But that righteousness can be yours today by calling on Jesus Christ. do you believe he is the son of God? He is. Do you believe he died for you? He did. If you trust him in your heart, he will save you.
Well, we're going to take questions, and we love the Q and A time we have at the end of each program. And so that number, if you would call us, is 888-5898-408885-88888. We'd love your question, friend. We're living in a defining moment today. A woman facing an unexpected pregnancy can order the abortion pill online, often before anyone has the chance to tell her she is loved, she's not alone, or that there is hope. That's why you are needed right now. You were made for this moment. At preborn network clinics, mothers are welcomed with compassion, practical support, and a free ultrasound. And when she sees her baby and hears that tiny heartbeat for the very first time, fear often gives way to hope. In fact, more than 80% of abortion vulnerable women choose life after seeing their baby on an ultrasound at a preborn network clinic. That one moment can save a baby's life and open a mother's heart to the hope of Jesus. Christ, this is our moment to stand. For those who cannot speak for themselves, just $28 provides one life saving ultrasound. $140 helps rescue five babies. Please don't wait. Dial 250. That's dial pound 250 and say the key word baby. That's pound 250 baby or gifts securely. Preborn.com Bert Harper that's preborn.com Bert Harper. Together we can save lives one heartbeat at a time. We feel this way.
Oh, we don't want dusty Bibles. Welcome back to Exploring the Word. Hey, the number, if you've got a Bible question, it's triple 8589-8840-8888-9840. And we certainly do appreciate the questions. You can also email us if you'd ever like to correspond with us. It's wordfr.net and you can also submit questions and prayer requests on our Facebook page. Exploring the Word is on Facebook, the American Family Radio Network. Exploring the Word Facebook page. And Brent Austin helps us keep track of all those. But Bert, are you ready to pick, up, a caller in Mississippi? How about that?
Let's do that. The great state of Mississippi. Go ahead.
We love Mississippi. Courtney is on the line there. Courtney, thank you for calling. Exploring the Word.
Hi, my dad recently told me that he feels like the Bible is just a book that we were given when we were kids and we were meant to just follow it. And he doesn't really know whether to believe it or not. And I've told him all of the historical, how it's all correct historically and, you know, all those things. But, but how do I answer that?
M. Well, let me, let me start this out. First of all, thank you for calling and may God bless you as you share the gospel with your dad. And let's encourage everybody to pray for the Holy Spirit of God to, begin to draw Courtney's dad to Jesus. Bert, I always pray that, for people, I'll say, lord, please keep them alive physically till they could be born spiritually. But, you know, the number one thing, one of the most brilliant scholars of our lifetime is a dear man named Gary Habermas. And I've heard people ask, you know, why should I believe the Bible is the word of God? And Habermas, he always says, the short answer is this. Jesus said so when he was raised from the dead. And if, if the only man that ever rose from the dead affirmed, scripture, and he did countless times, who are we to say Jesus assessment of The Bible was wrong. Now there are a lot of things that fulfill prophecy. The Bible's amazing, unity, indestructibility, scientific accuracy, historical accuracy, the Bible's worldwide influence and the Bible's amazing preservation and its life changing power. A lot of things compelling lines of evidence point to the fact that the Bible is of supernatural origin. Know the book, like it. But I think the most compelling thing is Matthew, 24, 35, Jon 10:35, Jon 5, 39, the only man that ever rose from the dead. And by the way, Christ's resurrection is a fact that even secular historians acknowledge. There's no other answer. He must have risen. Well, Christ affirmed that the Bible is the holy word of God. So what authority does a human have to say that it isn't? But Bert, what do you say?
I remember going to a Bible camp, Courtney, down in Louisiana, Ringgo, Louisiana, Bible Memory association. And we've mentioned that before and we had someone that was there was talking about the reliability of the scriptures and they gave many compelling reasons. But the one that I remember the most, and it really verified this while I was in college and having some professors say, you know, it's not true, but they said every one of the prophecies concerning Jesus birth, his life and death that were given in the Old Testament and every one of those was filled in the NewSong Testament. And the last one that was written in the old testament was 400 years before, before the birth of Christ. Now Courtney, that, that just confirmed it in my life and my and everything about me. One more thing. I'd say the word of God is called the sword. someone who doesn't believe the Bible, listen, it's still the Bible. So I'm not saying you preach to him, but don't be afraid when you're talking with him. And you don't have to say, okay, you find this In a certain scri, you know, chapter three, verse 16 was added to help us. But the scriptures themselves are powerful and using them is powerful. So don't be afraid to. I'm not talking about preaching and I'm not saying you got to identify every place you use. But the word of God is quick and powerful and sharp in any two edged sword. So let the word of God speak through you as you just have your conversation with your dad and just say it and see what God does. And we're going to be praying. Let's pray for that out there.
Amen.
Father, I thank you for Courtney calling. I have a feeling there's other people who are, who are listening today who have loved ones, dads, moms, children that are not believers. And they're saying, we just don't believe that God work, in their hearts. And may those of us that are witnessing to them, Father, may we just depend upon you and call upon you. As Alex said, keep them alive physically until they're born again spiritually. Father, we're praying this for Courtney's dad in Jesus name. Amen.
Amen. Thank you, Bert. And thank you, Courtney. we go over to Arkansas. Janet in Arkansas. Welcome to the American Family Radio Network.
Thank you for taking my call. In Matthew 1, when they go through the lineage of Jesus, it's actually the lineage of Joseph. Is that correct?
Go ahead, Alex.
Yeah. You know, these two lineages from Matthew, okay, Matthew goes Abraham, Isaac, all the way through David. And Matthew is really the paternal line that is, you know, all down through Solomon and on Joseph's side. and Luke has the genealogy from Abraham, David, really, the maternal line. And so you get in Matthew down to Joseph. And, Joseph was the son in law of Healy, and, Mary is the daughter of Healy. And so Matthew and Luke, you've got. And Bert, what this is doing, it's showing not only spiritually, but really ethnically and legally, Jesus Christ is qualified to be the savior of the world, the Messiah.
Amen. Go ahead, Janet. Complete your question.
Okay, so in Luke, lineage of Mary, is that correct?
Yes.
Okay. Because I was wondering, since Joseph is not, I guess, you use the word biologically Christ's father, then how does that. That's the lineage of Joseph, not, I guess, Jesus in that way.
Good question.
Yeah.
legally, in other words, to everyone that would know, we would know the truth because it was said, but it would go down to Joseph because of that. One more thing I'd say about it. Luke, Matthew was written mainly to Jews, for everybody. But concentrating on the Jews, that was what we call the target group. And he starts with Abraham, Luke, gentile, guess who goes down to Adam for all the world. So these genealogies, they are precious in every way in the word of God, but, yes, Mary and Joseph. But Mary, yes, biologically, Joseph, I would. You may use a better term legally, Alex, would there be a better, better term than that for Joseph?
Well, and you know what's so interesting is, in the lineage of Jesus, okay, Zerubbabel had two sons, Abiud or Abiyid, I'm not sure how to pronounce it. And Risa. And, Abiud is in the lineage of Joseph Rhysa is in the lineage of Mary. so you see, I mean, clearly it could only be Jesus. But part of the reason that while Joseph, was the daddy who helped raise Jesus, he wasn't the biological father. Mary was a virgin and it had to be that way. I love how Erwin Lutzer of Moody says that. He's a longtime friend and colleague. We, needed a sinless savior. Lutzer says this, Bert. We needed someone outside of our predicament. Not a sinner, but we needed someone who could intervene in our predicament and the incarnation, what C.S. lewis called the grand miracle. God took on a human body, fully human, but not fallen human, fully God and able to bear the sin debt of the world. And so we needed a virgin born Messiah who did not inherit the guilt of Adam and Eve.
Hallelujah. What a savior. And it is only Jesus.
Only Jesus. fascinating stuff. I mean the lineage of Jesus, and his qualification to die for the sins of the world, that in itself is a riveting topic.
It is, it is.
Let's go to, Texas. We love Texas. Banjo. am I saying that right? Is this banjo in Texas?
Yes.
Well, what you got?
Good afternoon, sir. So my question is about Matthew 24, about the events of the insights gives us a sequential order of things that will happen in last days. The Great Tribulation. But, from verse 36 and down talks about an event that sounds like the Rapture. I was calling to get, to get your point of view. From verse 36 and down. Is this the Rapture? If it is, won't that mean it happens after the Great Tribulation?
Okay, the, Rapture. And you're saying like verse 36 in Matthew 24, is that what you said, sir?
Yes.
Okay, thank you very much. Let's try to lay this out. And by the way, Bert and I did a book, almost a year ago, not quite a year ago, on 100 Bible Questions and answers. And this is our view. Although all Christians believe, all true Christians believe Christ is coming back victoriously to rule and reign. On that we all agree. And there's a lot in the Bible about eschatology or end times. As best we understand it, we believe there's going to be the Rapture, the catching away of the church. That's in First Thessalonians 4, the seven year tribulation, where, this evil person will emerge, the Antichrist. And that's also in First Jon, chapter two, verse 22 and following. And there will be Tribulation, there'll be many martyred, there'll be the battle of Armageddon. Christ returns. A thousand year millennium and then eternity proper. But now Matthew 24 and Bert, that's called the Olivet discourse, isn't it?
Yes. Yeah.
I'm not sure that you can really base the complete end times picture just based on Matthew 24. And I'm going to read verse 36 that the caller asks about. Jesus says, but that day or hour knoweth no man but the angels of heaven. but my Father only. So when Christ returns. And it says immediately after the tribulation of those days. For one thing, I don't think in light of all the known end time scriptures, we can take Matthew 24 completely sequentially.
That's right. That's the hard part.
Yeah, it is. And admittedly this is difficult. That's why I've got to say, while we have some very strong opinions about the end times, and we think those are arrived at pretty carefully again, the point of orthodoxy, on which we all agree is Christ is coming back. I do think the Rapture, the catching away is imminent. Could happen at any minute and we don't know when. I mean, that's why we need to come to Christ, get saved and walk with him and be ready. now, even the battle of Armageddon, I think. And we'll be watching from the grandstands of heaven. That's Hebrews 12, 1 2, Bert. the day or the hour, known only to God. When that trumpet will sound, the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. I think that's what Matthew 24:36 is saying.
Amen. As Alex said, here it is. Jesus Christ is returning visibly. Okay. Physically, he is coming. There are some disagreement on at what time that happens and what takes place before and after, but we do agree on that. So there's got to be some. Those of you that believe that Christ is coming back, you're in good stead now. You better have some grace when it comes to when and how. I think, I agree that we have the best pre trib, premillennial has more consistent answers. I do believe that, Alex. but chapter 24, I agree with you. It's not necessarily constant. It's not in consistency with time.
Yeah. thank you. God bless you, sir. let's go to Virginia. Harry in Virginia. Welcome to Exploring the Word.
Thank you. you Guys are so wise and you're such a great blessing. I listen to you in Mississippi when I go through and there's just so much wisdom. You're the very best. I, I am, I'm a born again Christian, 50 years. And I believe for a long time that I've been taught, I believe that when we get born again we're grafted into the Jewish benefits. when he says, you're part of the vine, that we get the Jewish benefits and the blessings, but we're not replacing them. We were just added to the people. And I'm going to hang up and listen to your answer. Thank you so much for all your wisdom and all your knowledge. I benefit from it every time I hear you. Thank you. I'm going to hang up and listen to you.
To God be the glory. Bert, I think he might be talking about Romans 11 and Jon 15. In Jon 15, Jesus says he is the true vine and indeed he is. And in Romans 11, 17 and following, it talks about being grafted in. Now I don't know if you've ever seen how a, great, you know, horticulturist can tape a limb to a tree and graft in and it'll grow. That's like we Gentiles, isn't it?
It is. We're not replacing. But the church comes along, ask this Alex to come complete God's plan for the world. Think about the Jews were they had that message, demonstrating it, living it power. But no, he said no, the church, you're not replacing them. But listen, I've, grafted you in so you can complete the message. And I think that does say that we're to take the message of Jesus salvation around the world. That's what we try to do do here at AFR on exploring the word. Well, Alex, we're going to be back tomorrow and we'll continue in chapter 22. Jesus has conflict after conflict. You don't want to miss it. Tell someone about this program, but more importantly, tell them about Jesus.
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The Bible, it's the word of God. Sharper than any two edged sword. This sacred book is living and active and contains all that's needed for life and godliness. Stay with American Family Radio for the next hour as we study God's word and take your Bible questions. Welcome to Exploring the Word.
In Matthew, chapter 21, there's a very famous miracle. It's an unusual miracle, frankly kind of a sad miracle, but it's, it's part of the journey of Christ entering into Jerusalem and it's the withering of the fig tree. Now, it's very significant. We're going to get into this and more, but we welcome you to today's edition of Exploring the Word and Praise God. Another week of looking at scripture and also taking your Bible questions, which, we'll do later on in the show. But if you're at a place where you can get a copy of scripture, turn to Matthew 21. Now Bert, when I'm on the road speaking, especially at our youth camps, and I always ask the audiences, especially youth, I'll say, now, Matthew, is that old or NewSong Testament? And of course everybody says NewSong Testament. And I say, good answer. But, it's good to be with you, brother Bert. And welcome to another week of Exploring the Word.
It is good and we're looking forward to continuing in Matthew. There's 28 chapters. We're in chapter 21, but this last few chapters is the last week of Jesus, plus the ascension. And we're going to look at this and again, chapter 21 is one of those that, some significant things happen besides the one that you were talking about, the parable, there's going to be the issue of authority. And Alex, I found out a lot of people are, are more interested in power than they are truth. And we're going to get to that. But before we do, let me start reading in verse 18 here. And this I'll read 18 through 22 because it is the whole story concerning this miracle. Now, in the morning, as Jesus returned to the city, he was hungry and seeing a fig tree by the road, he came to it and found nothing on it but leaves, and said to it, let no fruit grow on you ever again. Immediately. And that's a key word. The fig tree withered away. Now, when the disciples saw it, they marveled. They wondered, saying, how did the fig tree wither away so soon? So Jesus answered and said to them, assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you'll not only do what was done to the fig tree. But also it. If you say to this mountain, be removed and be cast into the sea, it will be done. And all things, whatever you ask in prayer, believing you will receive. Alex. Now, before we get into Jesus teaching, I'm just amazed. His power over wind, over water, over death, over animals. He rode the donkey into the colt that had never been ridden into Jerusalem. you see this, and it's all in Matthew. And Matthew is showing us. One of the many things he shows us is the authority of the Lord Jesus Christ. And even in this miracle that you said has got some, negative part to it, but it's a negative that demonstrates, I think what people should do. his authority is complete and sufficient, isn't it?
Well, it really is. And it's been said that the withering of the fig tree is really Christ's saddest miracle. So there's no fruit. And he says in verse 19, there let no fruit grow on thee henceforth forever. And presently or immediately, the fig tree withered away. And when the disciples saw it, they marveled, saying, how soon is the fig tree withered away? And Jesus answered and said unto them, verily I say unto you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you shall do not only this which was done to the fig tree, but also if you shall say to this mountain, be thou removed and be thou cast into the sea, it shall be done. let's talk about the fig tree because. And what I'm about to say in no way is anti Semitic. I mean, if you listen to this program much at all, you realize how much we love the Jewish people. We support Israel. But in reality, as the Bible says, he came unto his own, and his own received him not. And shortly after this, not too many years later, there would be the dispersion. And for more than 1900 years, there would be no nation of Israel. And, now there have been throughout history many, many, many Jewish believers in Messiah. But, Bert, the fig tree representing Israel, it says Christ said, you know, your house is left desolate. That's the significance. And again, it's not anti Semitic, but it's just a fact. Christ came to the nation of Israel. He was Jewish himself, and he was not received. He was rejected. And that symbolizes that this, this moment, of decision resulted in the withering of the fig tree and the hand of God being lifted from Israel for that moment.
And it really does. And again, it just demonstrates the area of unfruitfulness, when everything's been given to you in order to do what God has called you to do as an individual, as a church, and you do not do that. God's given it to you. why, why keep it? And again, they rejected him. And so listen, and this going to get to the rest of the chapter and Even part of 2022 about how this works. And, and matter of fact, I'm going to read verse 45, and then we'll go back to 23. But this demonstrates what we're talking about, about what Jesus was teaching with his parables and even the miracle. And. And now when the chief priests and Pharisees heard Jesus parables, they perceived that he was speaking of them. they finally got it, okay, and so this is the idea, but he moves on. Now, again, these. When he came into the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people confronted him. This is their territory. And as he was teaching, and said, and I'm going to try to put the inflection on it, by what authority are you doing these things? And who gave you this authority? Again, power over truth. Now, here's the great thing about Jesus Christ. It's truth with power. He's going to tell them all power has been given unto you. And it's the truth of who Jesus is, what he did, what, where he is even today. And so here it is, what we want to do as believers and followers of Christ is make sure truth. But with that truth, the Holy Spirit of God and the word of God has authority. So, Alex, they want to know by what authority. So Jesus answered and said to them also, we ask you one thing. Which of you, if you tell me, I, likewise tell you by what authority I do these things. The baptism of Jon, where was it from? From heaven or from men? They reasoned, among themselves, saying, if we say from heaven, he'll say to us, why then do you not believe? But if we say from men, we fear the multitude, for all count Jon as a prophet. So they answered and said, we do not know. Wow. And Jesus said, then I will not tell you and answer your question. Alex. Here it is again. most of the time they tried to trick Jesus Christ with questions. And again, this is a little bit tricky, but honestly, by what authority does he do these things? Alex? Does he have authority to, do the things that he said concerning the temple, concerning what he said about the Jewish nation?
Well, Jesus Christ being God incarnate, the maker of the universe, the giver of written revelation, the one who called Abraham the voice from the burning bush. The one who has control the elements, the one who knows the hearts of all men, and the one, according to Colossians, who actually holds the matter of the universe together. By him all things consist. Almighty God is exactly that. Almighty and God. And so Jesus has all the authority. And m. Let me just say I've been asked this question before. To say that marriage is between a man and a woman, only to say that males cannot transition and become females. To say that Jesus Christ is the one and only savior. what authority does the church have to say such truths? Well, we are sanctioned by, assigned by, commissioned by God. And so, yeah, I'll grant you, in and of ourselves, we don't have authority. But there's two words, Bert. Exousia and dunamis. I'm sure many people have heard preachers preach about dunamis, from which we get the word dynamite. And that's ability, power. But exousia is authority. Power. And that word is in Matthew 28, 1820. but Jesus absolutely has the authority to pass judgment on the spiritual condition of all people. Jesus absolutely has authority. He made this world. He gave his life for our redemption. as has often been said, we are twice bought. We were created, we are redeemed, if you're a believer in him. And by the way, Bert, let me just say this, and we'll get back to Matthew 28. But Exousia is authority and dunamis is ability. Satan has a little bit of dunamis. Satan has some powers, but he has no exousia. He is a trespasser. And I think we should get great confidence in that. That, as the creation of God and the redeemed of the Lord, Satan has no authority in our lives. And let's not let him have one toehold of ground.
Amen. No authority here, Satan. No authority here. Now, what's going to happen now to the end of this, chapter, is Jesus parables concerning two sons and a landowner. And each one of these, and this is why it goes to verse 45. The Pharisees and scribes finally understand. The chief priests and Pharisees understand, hey, he's talking about us. And it is. He has two sons. And the Father tells them to go and do a, work. The first one he does not, but then he does. The other one says, yes, I'll do it. It looks good, but then doesn't do it. Alex, Jesus is kind of comparing this issue of. And we'll get to it even more, thoroughly when we get to chapter 22 with the wedding, and those who come to the wedding, but Jesus is talking about those that the Pharisees, the chief priests and scribes, had said, you know, you're no good. Sort of like the Pharisee and the publican. The publican wasn't accepted, but. But Jesus is letting them know, hey, they may not have been first on board, but they received Jon and they are receiving me and you have not. And the condemnation for them is pretty, very severe, isn't it?
Well, it really is. It really is. And these parables, like you said earlier, Matthew, is a book of action. There's so much going on here. The entry into Jerusalem, the miracle of the cursing of the fig tree, the interaction here with the chief priests and elders. And then these parables about a householder with a vineyard, and he hedged it roundabout and digged a winepress in it and built a tower, and he let it out to husbandmen and went into a far country. Bert, like in verse 33. this is like the church that's been entrusted with the work of the world, or people rather. And when the time of the fruit drew near, he sent his servants to the husbandman that they might receive the fruits. But the husbandman took his servants and beat one, killed another, in a way, world history, the coming of Christ, the church age is depicted in this somewhat brief parable.
It is. And again, the Pharisees, man, they understood it was them because they killed the prophets, and they would not let hear Jon and they would kill Jesus. We'll be back with more here on Exploring the Word right after this break. Hello, I'm Bert Harper. Did you know that this content is listener supported? Without people like you, this podcast would not exist. That's why we need you. A generous monthly gift of any amount will sustain American Family Radio and specifically this podcast. Please consider becoming a monthly financial partner today by visiting afr.net give that's afr.net give
the Lord is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. The Lord is good to everyone. He showers compassion on all his creation. Psalm 145, 8, 9.
I got stolen by the grave Pick me up from that rock bottom Watch my soul in that holy water Brought me back to life
One more stone
rolled away no more sin I've been saved by grace. This dead man, he ain't dead no longer all because of
Amen. We hope you know this Lord Jesus Christ he is Lord. Well, Alex, afa AFR loves the family and we have so much that's available to adults that they can go to our resource center and see. But we also have Activate. But something new that's being introduced is Activate for Kids. We had Kendra White on last week. On Thursday we interviewed her and she told us about it. We're excited about it as it starts talking about something that is really important that you have spent a lot of your ministry, involving and that is defending the faith. Apologetics. How you like that? Apologetics for children at Activate. This is exciting, isn't it?
Well, it really is. And I, I want to encourage people to go on and watch this trailer about Biblical worldview. Tr. It's called AFA Activate Activate Kids now the website and I'll give this a time or two, activate afa.net and in this biblical worldview, training for children and by the way the graphics, everything is world class and it is just thoroughly based on God's word. There's a biblical foundation for what we believe and how we live. That's worldview. The sanctity of human life imparting in children from a young age to value human life, the gift of life by God, marriage, family. Why this is just so foundational and important. And then even being a citizen, you know, I think about religious liberty and being engaged and being salt and light and yes, children can get this and they need to. And so go to AFA. I'm sorry, activate.afa.net and watch the trailer and you can get started. And Bert, the double blessing is yes, growing and nurturing our children in the word of God. But really the parents will grow as well. Any adult involved in this because the grownups and the children are getting God's word. And so these video lessons and the discussion guides, hands on activities. This is very important. And Bert, this, this counts for eternity. God's word in every little heart and mind. It does not return void, does it?
It does not. And it's called Again 101. It's, it's Bible 101. It's teaching why the Baba, the Bible has authority and you can get it for $40. And again go to activate kids.aca.net activate kids.aca.net and you'll find that. And honestly, we're excited about it. We talked about it this morning in a meeting that we were in and we're just pumped about what God is using and let me just share with you, more is to come. they already Got about four or five more of these ready to go as. As we, develop them as we send them out and make them available. So get started on the Bible 101. It activate kids. It will make a difference.
Amen. Amen. Well, we are in Matthew 21, and, sort of getting near the end of Matthew 28 chapters, but before the break, we were talking about when told the story of the husbandmen or the workers that were given the assignment, and they beat up the servants and they were taken over. And the landowner says, like in verse 37, I'm going to send my son. They will reverence my son. But when the husbandmen saw the son, they said among themselves, this is the heir. Come, let. It's just unthinkable. Let us kill him and seize on his inheritance. And they caught him and cast him out of the vineyard and slew him. Bert. What. What's so moving and touching is, as Christ is sharing this parable, very soon the. The son of the Father that would be executed, it would be Christ himself.
It is. And Jesus, put it on them in verse 41 asking, yes, he would. they said, he asked them, when the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to Those vinedressers? Verse 40, verse 41. They answered themselves, he'll destroy those wicked men miserably and lease this vineyard to other vinedressers who will render to him the fruits of their seasons. Listen. Looked like they'd have, picked up on it then, but they finally did that. He was referring to them. And Jesus used the scripture. And this is one of the greatest scriptures in Old Testament concerning Messiah. And it's found in again, Psalm 118, verses 22, 23. The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone. This was the Lord's doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes. Therefore, I say to you, the kingdom of God will be taken from you and given to a nation bearing the fruits of it. And whoever falls on this stone will be broken. But to whomever it falls, it will grind him to powder. Alex, What a pronouncement again. And the truth of this is not only with Israel, it is the truth for anyone. Listen. Do not reject that stone. That stone is Jesus Christ. He is the rock. He's the foundation. And if that happens, the stone will crush them. strong words, but true words as well, right?
That's true. And this is from Psalm 118, this quotation written about a thousand years before the birth of Christ. Now, here's the thing. Verse 45 and 46. When the chief priests and Pharisees heard his parables, they perceived that he spoke of them. But when they sought to lay hands on him, they feared the multitude because they took him for a prophet. You know, for one thing, Bert, you know, the crowds of people, that understood, okay, Christ is the Messiah, we're going to believe on him. And there were some of the, educated religious leaders I think about, like Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea. but here's the thing. Coming to Christ and getting it, understanding, okay, Christ is the only one who rose from the dead. I am a sinner. I need his forgiveness. I'm going to put my faith in Jesus, Bert. it's not about how educated a person is or isn't. It's certainly not about how much wealth or position a person may have or may not have. It's about the honesty and humility of the human heart before God and the fact that these religious leaders were scheming and plotting, and they wanted to kill Jesus. But they feared the multitude who, like Jon the Baptist, they believed Jon the Baptist was a prophet. And many and in growing numbers, they believed Jesus was the Messiah, the redeemer, and the scheming and looking for a way to get the Romans to kill Jesus. And they wanted Jesus executed, but they didn't want their hands dirtied by their crime. It just shows how deceitful, duplicitous, and darkened the human heart can be.
And he does not stop. He continues. Chapter 22. Again, Jesus answered and spoke to them again by parables and said this. The kingdom of heaven is like a certain king who arranged a marriage for a son and sent out his servants to call those who were invited to the wedding. And they were not willing to come. Wow, they were not willing. Again, he sent out servants saying, tell those who are invited, see, I have prepared my dinner, my oxen fatted, cattle are killed, and all things are ready. Come to the wedding. But they made light of it and went their ways, one to his own farm, another to his business, while the rest seized his servants, treated them spitefully, and killed them. Now, Alex, again, we'll get to the king's reaction in a moment. Jesus is painting the picture of how Israel has treated Christ. But again, there are some principles here, as you alluded to in the first segment, that look at our society today. Do not reject him. He's done it. He's ready. He's invited them. And people are saying, oh, I'm just going to Live my life on my farm. I'm going to live my life in my business. And matter of fact, they said there's nothing to this. They're mocking Christianity today. They're mocking the Bible as being myth and legend. But no, it is true, isn't it?
Well, it really is. And by the way, anybody who's ever been on church visitation, or we used to call it going out, soul winning, you have seen Matthew 22, verse 5. My translation says they made light of it. And the word really means to be dismissive of something or to pay no attention. And let me just say the call to come, to Christ while you have an opportunity. Don't make light of that. Don't be dismissive. Says they went their ways, plural. Bert, there's 10,000 ways to be lost. There's one way to be saved, and that's through faith in Jesus. But that, you know, when they said, I've got a banquet, a dinner, and you're invited, but they made light of it. and we've seen many, many, many people come to Christ. But I've seen a lot of people brush it off, too. And that reminds me of some of those times that, Isn't your heart heavy if somebody just kind of brushes it off? Because, you know, the one doing the visitation cares more about their soul than maybe even the listener does.
It is so true. And again, observed, been there. I remember being in a home years ago, and, they would not turn the television. They invited us in and didn't invite us to sit down. So I stood up and, I noticed his attention. And I did move purposely between he and the tv, thinking, well, I might get his attention that way. And he said, would you please move? And I, said, well, sir, I appreciate you letting us in. We had something we wanted to share with you. he said, no, I'm watching this TV program. Thank y' all for coming and see you later. Yeah, that. That was light compared to a lot that people have to do. But you, if you give your life to Christ, be ready to be mocked. If you give and you're serving him and you speak truth to others, get ready to say, oh, no. Get ready for that. That's part of it. And if they did that to Jesus, who do we think we are that that will not be treated, Will not be treated that way. And here again, they made light of it, went their ways. Now, there is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the ends thereof are the ways of death. Those of you who are listening, and you're saying, well, I'm going to do it my way. no, let me just tell you. The only way to do it is God's way. And he says, come unto me, all you who are weak and heavy laden. I'll give you rest. Take my yoke upon yourself and learn of me. For I'm meek and lowly in heart. I want to tell you Jesus Christ will change your life for. For the betterment for you. I didn't say it would be easy, didn't say it would be smooth sailing after that. But you'll have a friend that stays closer than a brother. So, Alex, we're saying to people who are listening, don't go your way, go God's way.
Amen. Amen. You know, I love how it says in verse, ten, you know, well, the Lord says, go into the highways and hedges, and as many as you find bid them to come to the marriage. So the servants went out into the highways, gathered together all the many as they found both bad and good. And the wedding was furnished with gifts. you know, there's an old song where it's very touching. There's room at the cross for you. Now, Heaven is going to be furnished the banquet table, the marriage supper of the lamb. It's going to be a grand gathering, but there is room for you, everybody listening. And, some of you might need to come to Christ today and make sure. Or maybe you need to come back to Christ. his arms are open. And Bert, aren't you glad that, the Bible says in Romans 10:13, whoever calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. that wedding, everyone's invited. Whosoever will may come. And maybe even somebody listening right now. The Holy Spirit is drawing you. You know, you need to get straight with God. He loves you. Jesus is as close by as a prayer. That wedding's going to be furnished with guests, and everybody's invited.
Everybody's invited. listen. And again, this is demonstrating why the church is today. Again, we're not preaching replacement theology, but the Jewish people placed in the right location, with the right message, with the right power. They did not fulfill it. And God says, hey, I'm going to share it with the nations. And the church was birthed there on Pentecost. And all these people from all the world would hear that gospel in their own language. And then the apostles would go out everywhere. And we see the message of Christ being shared, and it's everywhere, all the highways and gathering people in. And it says, notice this verse 10. And the wedding hall was filled with guests. But when the king came to see the guests, he saw one man in particular who did not have a wedding garment on. Now, again, I believe this is an individual. he just saw the crowd coming in and he joined them, but he wasn't a part of them. He didn't get the right, he did not have what was needed. Alex, with all my heart, you're not going to get into heaven just by saying, oh, yeah, I know about him. Yeah, I've joined the church. Yeah, I was baptized. No, it's got to have a relationship. God offers it, you must receive it. And he puts on us, quote, the robe of righteousness, doesn't he?
yeah, I like what you said. The robe of righteousness. Now, you might have a raincoat, you might have a, rugby shirt, or you might have ripped jeans. I'm thinking of things that start with R. There's one garment that you must own and possess, and you can't as the garment called righteousness. To get to the marriage supper and to know the bridegroom, that's what you have to be wearing. You can't be wearing good works. And we should live right and do right. But only the righteousness of Christ will get you into the door of heaven. But that righteousness can be yours today by calling on Jesus Christ. do you believe he is the son of God? He is. Do you believe he died for you? He did. If you trust him in your heart, he will save you.
Well, we're going to take questions, and we love the Q and A time we have at the end of each program. And so that number, if you would call us, is 888-5898-408885-88888. We'd love your question, friend. We're living in a defining moment today. A woman facing an unexpected pregnancy can order the abortion pill online, often before anyone has the chance to tell her she is loved, she's not alone, or that there is hope. That's why you are needed right now. You were made for this moment. At preborn network clinics, mothers are welcomed with compassion, practical support, and a free ultrasound. And when she sees her baby and hears that tiny heartbeat for the very first time, fear often gives way to hope. In fact, more than 80% of abortion vulnerable women choose life after seeing their baby on an ultrasound at a preborn network clinic. That one moment can save a baby's life and open a mother's heart to the hope of Jesus. Christ, this is our moment to stand. For those who cannot speak for themselves, just $28 provides one life saving ultrasound. $140 helps rescue five babies. Please don't wait. Dial 250. That's dial pound 250 and say the key word baby. That's pound 250 baby or gifts securely. Preborn.com Bert Harper that's preborn.com Bert Harper. Together we can save lives one heartbeat at a time. We feel this way.
Oh, we don't want dusty Bibles. Welcome back to Exploring the Word. Hey, the number, if you've got a Bible question, it's triple 8589-8840-8888-9840. And we certainly do appreciate the questions. You can also email us if you'd ever like to correspond with us. It's wordfr.net and you can also submit questions and prayer requests on our Facebook page. Exploring the Word is on Facebook, the American Family Radio Network. Exploring the Word Facebook page. And Brent Austin helps us keep track of all those. But Bert, are you ready to pick, up, a caller in Mississippi? How about that?
Let's do that. The great state of Mississippi. Go ahead.
We love Mississippi. Courtney is on the line there. Courtney, thank you for calling. Exploring the Word.
Hi, my dad recently told me that he feels like the Bible is just a book that we were given when we were kids and we were meant to just follow it. And he doesn't really know whether to believe it or not. And I've told him all of the historical, how it's all correct historically and, you know, all those things. But, but how do I answer that?
M. Well, let me, let me start this out. First of all, thank you for calling and may God bless you as you share the gospel with your dad. And let's encourage everybody to pray for the Holy Spirit of God to, begin to draw Courtney's dad to Jesus. Bert, I always pray that, for people, I'll say, lord, please keep them alive physically till they could be born spiritually. But, you know, the number one thing, one of the most brilliant scholars of our lifetime is a dear man named Gary Habermas. And I've heard people ask, you know, why should I believe the Bible is the word of God? And Habermas, he always says, the short answer is this. Jesus said so when he was raised from the dead. And if, if the only man that ever rose from the dead affirmed, scripture, and he did countless times, who are we to say Jesus assessment of The Bible was wrong. Now there are a lot of things that fulfill prophecy. The Bible's amazing, unity, indestructibility, scientific accuracy, historical accuracy, the Bible's worldwide influence and the Bible's amazing preservation and its life changing power. A lot of things compelling lines of evidence point to the fact that the Bible is of supernatural origin. Know the book, like it. But I think the most compelling thing is Matthew, 24, 35, Jon 10:35, Jon 5, 39, the only man that ever rose from the dead. And by the way, Christ's resurrection is a fact that even secular historians acknowledge. There's no other answer. He must have risen. Well, Christ affirmed that the Bible is the holy word of God. So what authority does a human have to say that it isn't? But Bert, what do you say?
I remember going to a Bible camp, Courtney, down in Louisiana, Ringgo, Louisiana, Bible Memory association. And we've mentioned that before and we had someone that was there was talking about the reliability of the scriptures and they gave many compelling reasons. But the one that I remember the most, and it really verified this while I was in college and having some professors say, you know, it's not true, but they said every one of the prophecies concerning Jesus birth, his life and death that were given in the Old Testament and every one of those was filled in the NewSong Testament. And the last one that was written in the old testament was 400 years before, before the birth of Christ. Now Courtney, that, that just confirmed it in my life and my and everything about me. One more thing. I'd say the word of God is called the sword. someone who doesn't believe the Bible, listen, it's still the Bible. So I'm not saying you preach to him, but don't be afraid when you're talking with him. And you don't have to say, okay, you find this In a certain scri, you know, chapter three, verse 16 was added to help us. But the scriptures themselves are powerful and using them is powerful. So don't be afraid to. I'm not talking about preaching and I'm not saying you got to identify every place you use. But the word of God is quick and powerful and sharp in any two edged sword. So let the word of God speak through you as you just have your conversation with your dad and just say it and see what God does. And we're going to be praying. Let's pray for that out there.
Amen.
Father, I thank you for Courtney calling. I have a feeling there's other people who are, who are listening today who have loved ones, dads, moms, children that are not believers. And they're saying, we just don't believe that God work, in their hearts. And may those of us that are witnessing to them, Father, may we just depend upon you and call upon you. As Alex said, keep them alive physically until they're born again spiritually. Father, we're praying this for Courtney's dad in Jesus name. Amen.
Amen. Thank you, Bert. And thank you, Courtney. we go over to Arkansas. Janet in Arkansas. Welcome to the American Family Radio Network.
Thank you for taking my call. In Matthew 1, when they go through the lineage of Jesus, it's actually the lineage of Joseph. Is that correct?
Go ahead, Alex.
Yeah. You know, these two lineages from Matthew, okay, Matthew goes Abraham, Isaac, all the way through David. And Matthew is really the paternal line that is, you know, all down through Solomon and on Joseph's side. and Luke has the genealogy from Abraham, David, really, the maternal line. And so you get in Matthew down to Joseph. And, Joseph was the son in law of Healy, and, Mary is the daughter of Healy. And so Matthew and Luke, you've got. And Bert, what this is doing, it's showing not only spiritually, but really ethnically and legally, Jesus Christ is qualified to be the savior of the world, the Messiah.
Amen. Go ahead, Janet. Complete your question.
Okay, so in Luke, lineage of Mary, is that correct?
Yes.
Okay. Because I was wondering, since Joseph is not, I guess, you use the word biologically Christ's father, then how does that. That's the lineage of Joseph, not, I guess, Jesus in that way.
Good question.
Yeah.
legally, in other words, to everyone that would know, we would know the truth because it was said, but it would go down to Joseph because of that. One more thing I'd say about it. Luke, Matthew was written mainly to Jews, for everybody. But concentrating on the Jews, that was what we call the target group. And he starts with Abraham, Luke, gentile, guess who goes down to Adam for all the world. So these genealogies, they are precious in every way in the word of God, but, yes, Mary and Joseph. But Mary, yes, biologically, Joseph, I would. You may use a better term legally, Alex, would there be a better, better term than that for Joseph?
Well, and you know what's so interesting is, in the lineage of Jesus, okay, Zerubbabel had two sons, Abiud or Abiyid, I'm not sure how to pronounce it. And Risa. And, Abiud is in the lineage of Joseph Rhysa is in the lineage of Mary. so you see, I mean, clearly it could only be Jesus. But part of the reason that while Joseph, was the daddy who helped raise Jesus, he wasn't the biological father. Mary was a virgin and it had to be that way. I love how Erwin Lutzer of Moody says that. He's a longtime friend and colleague. We, needed a sinless savior. Lutzer says this, Bert. We needed someone outside of our predicament. Not a sinner, but we needed someone who could intervene in our predicament and the incarnation, what C.S. lewis called the grand miracle. God took on a human body, fully human, but not fallen human, fully God and able to bear the sin debt of the world. And so we needed a virgin born Messiah who did not inherit the guilt of Adam and Eve.
Hallelujah. What a savior. And it is only Jesus.
Only Jesus. fascinating stuff. I mean the lineage of Jesus, and his qualification to die for the sins of the world, that in itself is a riveting topic.
It is, it is.
Let's go to, Texas. We love Texas. Banjo. am I saying that right? Is this banjo in Texas?
Yes.
Well, what you got?
Good afternoon, sir. So my question is about Matthew 24, about the events of the insights gives us a sequential order of things that will happen in last days. The Great Tribulation. But, from verse 36 and down talks about an event that sounds like the Rapture. I was calling to get, to get your point of view. From verse 36 and down. Is this the Rapture? If it is, won't that mean it happens after the Great Tribulation?
Okay, the, Rapture. And you're saying like verse 36 in Matthew 24, is that what you said, sir?
Yes.
Okay, thank you very much. Let's try to lay this out. And by the way, Bert and I did a book, almost a year ago, not quite a year ago, on 100 Bible Questions and answers. And this is our view. Although all Christians believe, all true Christians believe Christ is coming back victoriously to rule and reign. On that we all agree. And there's a lot in the Bible about eschatology or end times. As best we understand it, we believe there's going to be the Rapture, the catching away of the church. That's in First Thessalonians 4, the seven year tribulation, where, this evil person will emerge, the Antichrist. And that's also in First Jon, chapter two, verse 22 and following. And there will be Tribulation, there'll be many martyred, there'll be the battle of Armageddon. Christ returns. A thousand year millennium and then eternity proper. But now Matthew 24 and Bert, that's called the Olivet discourse, isn't it?
Yes. Yeah.
I'm not sure that you can really base the complete end times picture just based on Matthew 24. And I'm going to read verse 36 that the caller asks about. Jesus says, but that day or hour knoweth no man but the angels of heaven. but my Father only. So when Christ returns. And it says immediately after the tribulation of those days. For one thing, I don't think in light of all the known end time scriptures, we can take Matthew 24 completely sequentially.
That's right. That's the hard part.
Yeah, it is. And admittedly this is difficult. That's why I've got to say, while we have some very strong opinions about the end times, and we think those are arrived at pretty carefully again, the point of orthodoxy, on which we all agree is Christ is coming back. I do think the Rapture, the catching away is imminent. Could happen at any minute and we don't know when. I mean, that's why we need to come to Christ, get saved and walk with him and be ready. now, even the battle of Armageddon, I think. And we'll be watching from the grandstands of heaven. That's Hebrews 12, 1 2, Bert. the day or the hour, known only to God. When that trumpet will sound, the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. I think that's what Matthew 24:36 is saying.
Amen. As Alex said, here it is. Jesus Christ is returning visibly. Okay. Physically, he is coming. There are some disagreement on at what time that happens and what takes place before and after, but we do agree on that. So there's got to be some. Those of you that believe that Christ is coming back, you're in good stead now. You better have some grace when it comes to when and how. I think, I agree that we have the best pre trib, premillennial has more consistent answers. I do believe that, Alex. but chapter 24, I agree with you. It's not necessarily constant. It's not in consistency with time.
Yeah. thank you. God bless you, sir. let's go to Virginia. Harry in Virginia. Welcome to Exploring the Word.
Thank you. you Guys are so wise and you're such a great blessing. I listen to you in Mississippi when I go through and there's just so much wisdom. You're the very best. I, I am, I'm a born again Christian, 50 years. And I believe for a long time that I've been taught, I believe that when we get born again we're grafted into the Jewish benefits. when he says, you're part of the vine, that we get the Jewish benefits and the blessings, but we're not replacing them. We were just added to the people. And I'm going to hang up and listen to your answer. Thank you so much for all your wisdom and all your knowledge. I benefit from it every time I hear you. Thank you. I'm going to hang up and listen to you.
To God be the glory. Bert, I think he might be talking about Romans 11 and Jon 15. In Jon 15, Jesus says he is the true vine and indeed he is. And in Romans 11, 17 and following, it talks about being grafted in. Now I don't know if you've ever seen how a, great, you know, horticulturist can tape a limb to a tree and graft in and it'll grow. That's like we Gentiles, isn't it?
It is. We're not replacing. But the church comes along, ask this Alex to come complete God's plan for the world. Think about the Jews were they had that message, demonstrating it, living it power. But no, he said no, the church, you're not replacing them. But listen, I've, grafted you in so you can complete the message. And I think that does say that we're to take the message of Jesus salvation around the world. That's what we try to do do here at AFR on exploring the word. Well, Alex, we're going to be back tomorrow and we'll continue in chapter 22. Jesus has conflict after conflict. You don't want to miss it. Tell someone about this program, but more importantly, tell them about Jesus.
The views and opinions expressed in this broadcast may not necessarily reflect those of the American Family Association or American Family Radio.
Join Alex McFarland and Pastor Bert Harper on Exploring the Word as they study Matthew 21 and 22, covering the withering of the fig tree, the parables of the vineyard and the wedding feast, and the vital importance of Christ's righteousness. This episode also features listener Q&A on the reliability of the Bible, Jesus' genealogy, and end-times prophecy.
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