Memory Verse — Ephesians 2:16 14 For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility 15 by abolishing the law of commandments expressed in ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, 16 and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility.
Westminster Confession of Faith 14.3. This faith is different in degrees, weak or strong; may be often and many ways assailed, and weakened, but gets the victory: growing up in many to the attainment of a full assurance, through Christ, who is both the author and finisher of our faith.
Monday: Read Mt 8:1-16 and write down all the details of Jesus’ care and compassion for those he meets. Which character do you resonate with? Consider Heb 4:15. How can you mirror Jesus’ care and compassion for the broken this week?
Tuesday: Read Mark 1:40-45, Mt 8:1-4. What do you learn about lepers from Num 12:12, Kings 5:7, Lev 13:45-46? What does the leper believe about Jesus (Mt 8:2)? Why does he say “If you will”? What does Jesus restore the leper to (v 4)? What kingdom truth does this cleansing miracle make (1 John 1:7-9, Heb 13:11-15)?
Wednesday: Mt 8:5-9, 13. Who is this centurion? Why does he say “I am not worthy to have you under my roof” (5:3f)? What is the comparison between the centurion and Christ? What does he believe about Jesus’ authority? How is this word-authority evidenced in v 13? What practical authority does Jesus really have over your life?
Thursday: Mt 8:10-13. Why does Jesus marvel? Compare this to Mt 15:28. Are there degrees of faith? How do you grow in faith (Rom 10:14, 17, Luke 17:5, 1 Peter 2:2)? What warning is there for us in vv 11-12? Pray for specific unsaved people, for growth in trusting Jesus’ promises, and for greater obedience.
Friday: What is the main point of Isaiah 53:1-12? How does that, summarized in Mt 8:17, explain the purpose of these miracles, and include all of us in them (John 20:30f, Mt 9:12, Mk 2:17)? Pray through Isaiah 53, giving praise to God for his mercy.
Saturday: Ephesians 4:17-24. What is Jesus’ main charge here? What reasons does he give?