Be. Become. Do. - Day 14

Day 14 - Thursday, September 28
Read Matthew 16

Highlight
When we read the Gospels it comes from a place where we are already aware of the ending. Jesus suffered, died, and was raised to life again. But the disciples did not know the ending. So when Jesus predicts his death for the first time, it is not surprising that the disciples deny what he is saying. They knew the Old Testament prophecies that spoke of a messiah, like King David, who would sit on the throne and reestablish his kingdom. That was their idea of the messiah. They were not expecting the messiah to suffer, even though the prophets spoke of this.

Peter would have known the Old Testament. He misunderstood Jesus’ miraculous works to be the beginning of an earthly kingdom, not the establishment of his heavenly kingdom on earth. That is a reason why Peter is quick to claim Jesus as the messiah, yet then also rebuked Jesus for saying he would suffer. He only understood the earthly side.

Reflection & Prayer
For this reading plan we will be using a tool to guide our study of Scripture that’s called the S.O.A.P. Method.  It stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer.  We recommend you use a journal with this method and write out your thoughts on each of these areas for each day of reading.  It doesn’t have to be long-winded and you don’t need a fancy journal.  But for anyone that has not journaled before, the benefit is that it often helps us focus and avoid distractions during prayer and Bible study.

S.O.A.P. Method

Scripture - Pick a verse or two that stood out to you and write it in your journal.  Be looking for a “Holy Spirit Highlight.”  What did you read and think “I needed to hear that” or felt like it was written just for you?

Observation - Now write some observations about the verse(s) or passage. What is this passage or verse saying? About God? About people? How is Jesus revealed in these verses?

Application - Now write a few sentences on how this passage applies to your life. Is there truth about God that you are to believe? A promise to receive? Is the Holy Spirit convicting you of something you need to do or stop doing in light of God’s truth?

Prayer - Now write out a prayer to God in response to this Scripture. This is a way to turn God’s Word to you back to Him. Be honest and express your heart to Him. God always listens and He delights in your prayers. (Psalm 34:15; Proverbs 15:8)
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