In part 1 of this article, we saw Herodians and Pharisees come together to challenge Jesus about Rome, about government oppression. They posed a question -- “Should we pay taxes to Caesar, or not?” -- hoping to catch Jesus in an answer that either maddened the masses or went against Roman law.
Read moreJesus Challenged about Government Oppression, Pt. 1 (Mark 12:13-17)
We find ourselves in a place in Mark's gospel where the hostility toward Jesus is reaching its peak. Soon, the religious leaders will conspire with the Roman authorities to put Christ to death. But these leaders and authorities feel a need to build their case against Jesus, and in the final week before his death, that's precisely what they set out to do. In this passage we find two enemy groups, the Pharisees and the Herodians, join together in an attempt to stop Jesus. They presented a challenge to Jesus about government oppression in Rome.
Read moreElection Year Encouragements for Our Congregation
As everyone is aware, we are in a divisive presidential election season. Though I love my country and consider myself blessed to be a citizen here, as a senior pastor, I grin and bear these seasons every four years. But this year, I thought it could be helpful to offer some pastoral counsel for this election. I want to point you afresh to Jesus and give you some biblical pillars during this disruptive time. (8 Minutes/2000 Words)
Read moreGood Citizens — Romans 13:1-14
This week at Calvary Monterey we studied Romans 13:1-14. Here are the four main takeaways:
- God instituted government (1-4)
- Christian’s are to live in subjection to their government (5-7)
- Owe only love (8-10)
- Live like Jesus’ government comes soon (11-14)