Definition: But when the Pharisees saw [it], they said unto him, Behold, thy disciples do that which is not lawful to do upon the sabbath day.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 12:2. It’s a really important passage about leadership and obedience in the early church. Here's a simple explanation: The Basic Idea: Jesus is telling his followers – the Pharisees – that they are acting strangely. They’re doing something that’s not allowed on the Sabbath day, which was a holy day of rest for Jewish people. Let’s unpack it word by word: “But when the Pharisees saw [it]” : The Pharisees were a group of leaders in the Jewish community who were very concerned with following religious rules and traditions. They believed that certain things had to be done on the Sabbath day, like washing hands or eating certain foods. “they said unto him, Behold, thy disciples do that which is not lawful to do upon the sabbath day.” : This is the core of the verse. The Pharisees are saying, “Jesus is doing something that’s against Jewish law – he's talking to his followers, and he’s allowing them to engage in activities that aren't permitted on the Sabbath." What does this mean in a broader sense? This isn’t just about one specific instance of Jesus’s actions. It’s a warning about: The importance of following God’s law: Jesus was teaching his followers to be obedient to God's laws, which were very important for them as Jews. Leadership and Authority: The Pharisees were in charge of the Jewish community. This verse suggests they might be acting in a way that’s confusing or disruptive to the established order. Why is this a big deal? Jesus was facing opposition from the religious leaders, and this verse highlights a conflict between his teachings and their own beliefs. It's a pivotal moment where he challenged their authority and began to set things on a different path. In short: The Pharisees are saying that Jesus is acting in a way that’s not allowed by Jewish law, which is causing trouble for the community. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage in more detail?

Definition: A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not quench, till he send forth judgment unto victory.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful and profound verse from Matthew 12:20. It's a really rich message about God’s plan for us. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is saying that God always wants to help people, even when they are struggling or making mistakes. He doesn’t give up on them until he has finished working through their situation and brought about a positive outcome. Let's unpack the parts: “A bruised reed shall he not break…” – Think of a reed as something that is easily damaged, like a branch that breaks under pressure. This suggests that people are vulnerable and can be harmed if they don’t receive help or guidance. “…and smoking flax shall he not quench…” - Flax is used for cloth and is often associated with new beginnings, growth, and potential. “Quench” means to extinguish, to put out a flame. So, this part suggests that God doesn't want to stop helping people from growing or moving forward. He’s not finished with them yet. “…till he send forth judgment unto victory.” – This is the key! "Send forth judgment" means to bring about a final, important outcome – often a positive one like forgiveness, healing, or restoration. “Victory” signifies a successful and fulfilling resolution of the problem. In simpler terms: God is committed to helping people through their challenges. He’s not going to give up on them until he has brought about a good ending for them. It's an ongoing process of support and guidance. Why is this important? It encourages us to: Be patient with others: Even when they make mistakes, God remains committed to helping them. Don’t give up on people: He will continue to offer grace and opportunity even in difficult times. Trust in God's plan: We shouldn’t be afraid to believe that God is working for our good, even if we don’t understand everything that’s happening. Does this mean God doesn't care about our problems? Absolutely not! It means He cares deeply enough to continue caring and helping us, regardless of the circumstances. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail with a specific example? Discuss its connection to other parts of the Bible?

Definition: And in his name shall the Gentiles trust.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this incredibly important verse from Matthew 12:21: “And in his name shall the Gentiles trust.” Here’s what it means, broken down: Matthew 12:21: This is a passage from the Gospels of Matthew. It’s a key part of Jesus’ teaching about how to preach and reach people. “The Gentiles”: This is a really important word! "Gentiles" in this context refers to non-Jews – people who are not Jewish, like Romans, Greeks, Egyptians, etc. It’s a phrase that was used in the Bible to refer to those living outside of Israel. “Shall the Gentiles trust?” This is the question at the heart of the verse. It means “Will the non-Jewish people trust in Jesus?” So, what's the big idea? Jesus is saying that through him , people from all different backgrounds – not just Jewish people – will eventually come to believe and trust in his message. He’s emphasizing that God’s love and invitation are open to everyone, regardless of their background or traditions. Why is this important? This verse speaks to the early church's mission: to spread the gospel (the good news about Jesus) to everyone – not just Jewish people. It’s a foundational statement about God’s universal love and invitation to salvation. It represents a shift from focusing solely on Jewish people to including all humanity in the plan of salvation. In essence, it's a hopeful message about God's grace and inclusivity. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you more context around this passage? Talk about its significance in the history of Christianity?

Definition: Then was brought unto him one possessed with a devil, blind, and dumb: and he healed him, insomuch that the blind and dumb both spake and saw.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Matthew 12:22. It's a really interesting story about healing someone who was experiencing a powerful and unusual experience. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Jesus is visiting a man who is completely overwhelmed by something – he’s feeling very strange, confused, and unable to speak or understand. He’s being controlled by something that’s making him act strangely. “Possessed with a devil” : This means he's experiencing a strong, possibly frightening, influence from something supernatural. It suggests he’s struggling with intense emotions or even a spiritual challenge. “Blind, and dumb” : He’s unable to communicate clearly. He can’t speak his thoughts or understand what's happening. “He healed him” : Jesus intervenes and helps him. This is a crucial part – it shows Jesus’ power and ability to bring relief from suffering. “Insomuch that he spoke and saw” : This is the really significant part. After Jesus heals him, he also starts to understand what's happening! He begins to speak clearly and see things in a new way – it’s like a breakthrough in his understanding. What It Means Figuratively: The story is often interpreted as a metaphor for: Jesus’ Healing Power: Jesus has the power to heal people from spiritual or emotional problems. Spiritual Breakthroughs: Sometimes, we experience a "devil" or a strong influence that makes it difficult to see things clearly. Jesus' healing can be like a breakthrough – a moment where we gain a new understanding and perspective. Key Takeaway: The story illustrates that Jesus’ ability to heal isn't just about physical wounds; it’s also about helping people overcome spiritual or emotional struggles, leading them to understand things they didn't before. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific aspect of the story in more detail? (e.g., the symbolism of the devil?) Discuss how this passage relates to other parts of the Bible? Answer any questions you have about it?

Definition: And all the people were amazed, and said, Is not this the son of David?

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this incredibly important passage from Matthew! Here’s an explanation in plain language: The Basic Story: This verse comes from a story about Jesus as a young man. Imagine Jesus is talking to some people and he says something that makes them all stop and look at him with surprise. What's Happening? Jesus Says Something Unexpected: Jesus is speaking, and he uses a metaphor – he’s comparing himself to David, a very important figure in the Old Testament Bible. The Crowd Reacts: The crowd that was listening is amazed . They’re looking at him with astonishment. They’re thinking, "Wow, this is incredible! Is this really Jesus?" "Is Not This the Son of David?" This is the key part. He says, “Is not this the son of David?” What Does it Mean? This phrase is a bit tricky, but here’s what it’s really saying: David Was a King: David was a hugely important king in Jewish history – he had many children and was known for his bravery and wisdom. Jesus is Connected to David: The verse suggests that Jesus is the son of David, meaning he's descended from this very famous king. It’s like saying “This person is part of the same lineage as a legendary hero.” Why is it Important? The significance of this verse goes beyond just a simple story. It's considered one of the most important moments in Jesus' life because: He was Identified: It shows that Jesus wasn’t just any ordinary young man; he was connected to a significant figure in Jewish history and tradition. It Shows His Divinity: The fact that he's being compared to David – a king, a prophet, and a Messiah (a person believed to be the one sent by God) - points towards his divine nature – his special relationship with God. In short, it’s a powerful statement about Jesus' identity and connection to the Old Testament. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about David in the Bible?

Definition: But when the Pharisees heard [it], they said, This [fellow] doth not cast out devils, but by Beelzebub the prince of the devils.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that verse from Matthew 12:24. It’s a really important part of understanding early Christian beliefs about Jesus. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Jesus is telling his followers (the Pharisees) that he doesn’t just perform miracles – like healing people or making things happen – but he’s also dealing with something much more powerful and potentially dangerous: demonic forces. Let's unpack it piece by piece: "But when the Pharisees heard [it]..." - This refers to a conversation between Jesus and his followers, specifically the Pharisees, who were very concerned about Jesus’s actions. "...they said, This [fellow] doth not cast out devils..." – This is the core of the verse. The Pharisees are accusing him of doing something that goes beyond just performing miracles – they believe he's actively summoning and controlling demons! They’re saying he’s casting out devils (which is a very old belief about demonic influence). "...but by Beelzebub the prince of the devils." - This is where it gets interesting. Beelzebub was a powerful, evil demon in Jewish folklore. The Pharisees believe Jesus has made a pact with this demon, granting him power over these forces. So, what does it mean? It suggests that Jesus’s actions – particularly his resurrection and the fact he's shown authority over death – might be connected to demonic influence. They were worried about the potential for evil to gain control over him. Important Context: This verse is a crucial moment in early Christian history because it highlights the growing concern among Jewish leaders about Jesus’s power and his connection with Satan. It was a key point of contention leading up to the Council of Jerusalem, where the issue of Jesus's divine status was debated intensely. In short, the verse warns against any action that could be seen as being controlled by evil. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible passage? Go into more detail about a specific aspect of this verse (like the history of demonology)?

Definition: And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this famous verse from Matthew 12:25. It's a really powerful message about conflict and the importance of unity. Here’s a simple explanation: What it means in plain English: “Jesus knew their thoughts, and said to them, ‘When two groups or factions within a community become divided against each other – like when people fight amongst themselves – then that community will fall apart and collapse.’ And if a city or house is broken apart by its own internal disagreements, it won’t stand.” Let's unpack the key parts: “Jesus knew their thoughts…” : This means Jesus understood what these people were thinking. He wasn't just observing them; he was actively trying to grasp what they were believing and feeling. “…and said unto them…” : This is a formal address, like when Jesus speaks to a group of people. “Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation…” : This is the core of the message. A “kingdom” in this context refers to a community – a nation, a group of people, or even a family. When these kingdoms are fractured and fighting amongst themselves, it leads to destruction. “…and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand:” : This is the consequence. “Cities or houses” are being likened to structures that need support and stability. When they’re constantly pulling at each other, they become unstable and ultimately fall down. What does this mean practically? This verse speaks to the dangers of: Division: When people disagree with each other, even in small ways, it can create problems. Conflict: Fighting or being antagonistic towards others undermines a community’s strength and stability. Disruption: When groups are divided, they lose their ability to work together effectively and achieve common goals. In short, Jesus is warning us that conflict and division are bad for communities – they weaken them and ultimately lead to failure. Why is this verse important? It’s a timeless reminder of the importance of unity and cooperation within groups. It encourages us to strive for harmony and peaceful resolution rather than letting disagreements fester. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible passage? Discuss a specific interpretation of this verse?

Definition: And if Satan cast out Satan, he is divided against himself; how shall then his kingdom stand?

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this famous Bible passage together! It’s a really thought-provoking one and it speaks to the ongoing battle between good and evil. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about the stability of God's kingdom – His plan for everything to work out well – when there’s a strong, disruptive force opposing it. It’s asking a really important question: How can a powerful and established kingdom (God’s rule) survive if there’s someone actively trying to undermine it? Let’s unpack the parts: “Matthew 12:26” : This is the verse itself. It's a passage from the Gospel of Matthew, which tells about Jesus’ first miracle – healing a man with a broken leg. “And if Satan cast out Satan…” : This refers to Satan, who is often portrayed as a powerful and rebellious force. He’s essentially trying to cause chaos and opposition. “…he is divided against himself” : This is the key part. When Satan successfully casts someone out (like he does in the story of the Prodigal Son – he gets lost and causes trouble), he's not just defeated; he's broken apart . Imagine a strong, well-built house being torn down by an earthquake – it’s unstable! So, what does this mean for our kingdom? The verse suggests that: God’s Kingdom is Strong: God’s kingdom isn’t just about a peaceful existence; it’s designed to be powerful and secure. Evil Can Disrupt It: Satan's actions, his attempts to challenge God and His plan, will eventually weaken the foundation of that kingdom. It Needs Protection: The verse implies that God needs a way to protect His kingdom from being undermined by evil forces. What’s the point? It’s a reminder that: Evil is a constant threat. We can't be complacent about opposition. God provides strength and protection. The verse isn't saying God can't be challenged, but it's highlighting the need for His power to overcome evil and maintain order. In short, the verse is a warning that constant opposition will ultimately weaken God’s kingdom – and we need to be vigilant against it! --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you another Bible passage with a similar theme?

Definition: And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by whom do your children cast [them] out? therefore they shall be your judges.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this famous verse from Matthew 12:27. It's a really important and complex passage with a lot of layers, but here’s the gist in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about Jesus challenging those who are casting out demons – essentially, those who are practicing witchcraft or dark magic. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by whom do your children cast them?” This is the core of the question. Jesus is asking: "If I were to completely eliminate these people who are casting out demons, who will be responsible for dealing with them?" “Therefore they shall be your judges.” This is where it gets interesting. Jesus isn't saying that he is the judge. He’s suggesting that those who are casting out demons – and potentially practicing dark magic – will become the ones to handle the situation. It implies that they have a responsibility, a role to play in dealing with this kind of activity. What does it mean? Historically, this verse has been interpreted as: Jesus’s Authority: It highlights Jesus's power and authority over those who practice evil. He is asserting his ability to take action against these individuals. The Church's Role: It suggests that the church (the community of believers) has a responsibility to intervene when people are engaging in harmful or deceptive practices. Protecting the Faithful: It emphasizes the importance of protecting those who are vulnerable to dark forces. Important Context – it’s not about Jesus being a judge! It's crucial to understand that this verse doesn't mean Jesus is judgmental in the way we typically think of judgment. He's saying he has the power to take action against those who are causing harm. In short, this verse establishes a challenge and responsibility for those involved in practices that are considered harmful or deceptive. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of the verse in more detail? Give you some historical context surrounding this passage? Discuss its significance within the broader story of Jesus's teachings?

Definition: But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this really important verse from Matthew 12:28. It's a statement about Jesus’ power and what it means for the future. Here’s a simple explanation: The Basic Idea: Jesus is saying that when he uses his power to cast out demons , that's a sign that He’s doing something significant – that the kingdom of God (which is a spiritual realm of peace, justice, and love) is finally coming to Earth. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: "But if I cast out devils..." : This refers to Jesus performing a powerful act of exorcism, which is essentially removing evil spirits from people. "...by the Spirit of God..." : This is crucial . It means Jesus isn't just doing this with his own power. He’s using divine help – the Holy Spirit – to do it. The Spirit of God is a key part of how Jesus has authority and power over evil. "...then the kingdom of God is come unto you." : This is the big takeaway. It means that because Jesus is casting out demons in this way, He’s bringing about the arrival of the Kingdom of God on Earth. The Kingdom isn't just a place; it's a state of being – a time when God's will is fully realized and justice prevails. In short: Jesus’ actions of exorcising evil are evidence that His coming is finally happening, and He's setting things into motion towards a better, more righteous world. Important Note: This verse is often misunderstood. It doesn’t mean Jesus controls the demons. It means He’s using His power to overcome evil and open the way for God’s kingdom to be established. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Give you some context about why this verse is significant in the Bible? Or do you have any other questions about it?