The Gospel of Matthew // Jesus begins His Earthly Ministry

Masterclass: Ask, Seek, and Knock

Jesus invites us to approach God with confidence, continually asking, seeking, and knocking. Prayer is about trusting our good Father, who knows what we need, transforms us through every season, and calls us to share His goodness with others.

Masterclass: Judging Others

Jesus teaches that while we're called to exercise discernment, we're not called to sit in God's seat as judge. Judgment condemns people, while discernment lovingly evaluates actions and seeks restoration. Before pointing out the faults of others, Jesus challenges us to examine our own hearts and recognize our own need for grace. As followers of Christ, our calling is not to condemn but to humbly help others, trusting God to do the work of transformation.

Masterclass: Treasures in Heaven

In Matthew 6:19-24, Jesus cuts straight to the heart of where we place our trust. He warns us that earthly treasures are temporary, calls us to fix our eyes on what is eternal, and makes it plain that divided devotion is no devotion at all. Two treasures, two visions, two masters, but only one worthy of everything we have. Jesus alone is the treasure death cannot take, the light darkness cannot overcome, and the Master who never fails. He isn't asking for part of our hearts. He's worthy of all of it.

Masterclass: Jesus' Teaching on Prayer

Jesus teaches us to call God, “Father.” This was unheard of back in that time with Jewish and secular culture. The word Jesus uses is “Abba,” which is translated as “Daddy.” Our God is the perfect Father. He provides, protects, teaches, guides and will always love you. As His child, our desire becomes to live for His approval and to know that He is always with us. When we know God like this, we have a boldness, confidence and trust that changes our lives forever.

Masterclass: Fulfilling the Law

Jesus teaches that the Kingdom of Heaven is not simply behavior modification, but heart transformation. Jesus comes to fulfill the Law and to bring us true righteousness through His sacrificial death on the cross. Jesus exposes the motives behind what we do and calls us to perfection. We can never be perfect on our own, but only when we commit our lives to Jesus and allow His righteousness to cover our hearts. Real love then becomes the identifying mark of all Christ-followers. Give your heart fully to Jesus and then live in His love and offer His love to others today.