Following Jesus From Afar or Near?

N.T.#314 "Following Jesus From Afar or Near?"

May 28, 2024 

Matthew 27-Part 17

LET IT GLOW 

Seems to be days Jesus is so near to us and days He is far away. Recon it is us that has moved, not Him? How do we follow Jesus-from afar or near?

After witnessing three hours of darkness, an earthquake, rocks splitting, and dead saints rising from tombs, all this had an effect on the centurion. Fear, confession of sin and faith, which ever it was, the Roman official in charge of the soldiers who crucified Christ spoke up. 

Truly this was the Son of God. (verse 54b)

Pagans in Jerusalem saw the life of Christ and His character even when faced with death. What a contrast with the mocking religious leaders of the Jews. 

Gentiles believed Jesus was exactly who He'd claimed to be. (Tony Evans) 

Do you and your family believe Jesus is the Messiah, Savior, Redeemer, and Son of the Living God?

LET IT GROW 

Who else was observing the happenings surrounding Jesus' death? 

• Many women were there beholding afar off. (verse 55) Those women came from Galilee to take care of Him.
• Mary Magdalene was among the group. (She may have been the one whom Jesus cast 7 devils out of in Magdala, Galilee.
• Mary, the mother of James and Joses was there. She was the wife of Cleopas. (John 19:25)
• The mother of Zebedee's children was Salome attended. (Mark 15:40)

How close do we follow Jesus? Is it from afar? Is it only on Sunday's at worship time? Or is it daily?

Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you. (James 4:8)

LET IT GO

Help us to love You with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, Jesus.

Bless ;all who come to study Your Word today.