It Is God’s World, Not Man’s

Jesus had just made the point that some of the people who were considered irreligious were in fact more interested I serving God, that the religious leaders.  Matthew 21:32 states, “For John came unto you in the way of righteousness, and ye believed him not: but the publicans and the harlots believed him: and ye, when ye had seen it, repented not afterward, that ye might believe him.”  He uses a parable in Matthew 21:33-40 to illustrate the point. 

“Hear another parable: There was a certain householder, which planted a vineyard, and hedged it round about, and digged a winepress in it, and built a tower, and let it out to husbandmen, and went into a far country: And when the time of the fruit drew near, he sent his servants to the husbandmen, that they might receive the fruits of it.  And the husbandmen took his servants, and beat one, and killed another, and stoned another.  Again, he sent other servants more than the first: and they did unto them likewise.  But last of all he sent unto them his son, saying, They will reverence my son.  But when the husbandmen saw the son, they said among themselves, This is the heir; come, let us kill him, and let us seize on his inheritance.  And they caught him, and cast him out of the vineyard, and slew him.  When the lord therefore of the vineyard cometh, what will he do unto those husbandmen?” 

The landowner had leased out his wine making business to others. But when he attempted to collect his rent, they repeatedly attacked his representatives, eventually killing even his own son.  Jesus asked what a landowner would do about their refusing to pay their bills and even killing his son.  Matthew 21:41 tells how the Pharisees responded.  “They say unto him, He will miserably destroy those wicked men, and will let out his vineyard unto other husbandmen, which shall render him the fruits in their seasons.”  No sensible person would allow people to steal his property or attack those who tried to protect it without repercussions.  The landowner would be well within his rights to have the leases executed for murder and lease it out to someone who would pay him what they owed.     

“Jesus saith unto them, Did ye never read in the scriptures, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner: this is the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes?  Therefore say I unto you, The kingdom of God shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof.  And whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken: but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder.” (Matthew 21:42-44)

Jesus then explained that God had set up his kingdom on earth, placing the priests and Levites in charge.  The entire kingdom was based on His son.  Because they refused to accept his son’s authority, God would remove them from authority and give it to people who would place their faith in him, and obey him.  Many of the Pharisees were descendants of the Levites and they and the Priests were already plotting to have Jesus killed.  He warned that initially their power over the people would be broken, and eventually their entire system would be destroyed.  On the day of Pentecost, the priest’s power began to be broken, with them steadily losing power until 70 AD, when the Roman Empire destroyed Jerusalem completely. 

The Priests and Pharisees understood what Jesus was saying, according to Matthew 21:45-46.  “And when the chief priests and Pharisees had heard his parables, they perceived that he spake of them.  But when they sought to lay hands on him, they feared the multitude, because they took him for a prophet.”  They wanted to kill him at the time, but were afraid to go against public opinion.  They would spend the next few days trying to change the public’s perception of Jesus.  His arrest and subsequent trial were intended to discredit him. 

God knew exactly what was going to happen, and was able to predict it precisely.  As Christians, we need to understand he has complete control and knows exactly what is going to happen.   He is not surprised by the various attacks on Christianity today, any more than he was surprised by the attacks on Jesus.  We can trust him to do what needs to be done to make things right.    Humanity has only has the privilege of taking care of their part.   It is God’s world, and he has the right to take away their land and punish those who abuse his trust.   

Look a Little deeper

As Christians, it is crucial we remember that Jesus said,  “…wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it,” In Matthew 7:13-14.   We need to understand a large percentage of the people we witness to will not get saved.  Even though he was God in the flesh, had twelve full time disciples to help him, did hundreds of miracles throughout Israel, and had spoken to many thousands of people in various cities, there were only about a hundred twenty believers gathered in the upper room.   Many are not willing to commit to following a less popular or more difficult lifestyle.  The Jews had had the Law, and prophets for about seventeen hundred years, and were well versed in it, yet only that very small group believed Jesus was the Messiah.  Those who were most versed in the scriptures were often the least willing to consider His message, because they were convinced they already knew everything.     

Jesus met such a group in Matthew 21:23.  “And when he was come into the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came unto him as he was teaching, and said, By what authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee this authority?”  What Jesus was teaching was different than what they were used to hearing, and they demanded to know what gave him the right to teach something different.  In modern terms, they were asking him what kind of degree he had, and where he got it.  If he held a prestigious degree, (for example, a doctorate from Harvard), they might consider what he said, but if not they would assume he didn’t know what he was talking about.  The same attitude has become popular in our day. 

Jesus took the focus of his educational qualifications, forcing them to question their own attitude, in Matthew 21:24-27.  “And Jesus answered and said unto them, I also will ask you one thing, which if ye tell me, I in like wise will tell you by what authority I do these things.  The baptism of John, whence was it? from heaven, or of men?

And they reasoned with themselves, saying, If we shall say, From heaven; he will say unto us, Why did ye not then believe him?  But if we shall say, Of men; we fear the people; for all hold John as a prophet.  And they answered Jesus, and said, We cannot tell…”  

Many of the Jews had generally John as being from God, even though he was not highly educated or a member of the elite priests.  If the chief priests said he was not from God, they would offend many of the people, possibly causing them to turn to Jesus because John had proclaimed Jesus to be the Messiah.  If they said he was from God, he would ask them why they didn’t believe what he said.  They refused to answer,, saying they couldn’t tell.  They deliberately chose to overlook the evidence to keep from having to change their position.   Frequently people commit themselves to a position, and refuse to consider anything that does not support their position.   

It is a waste of time trying to change such people’s minds, and Jesus knew that.   Instead of answering their question about his authority, he used a parable to make them stop and think about what they were doing, in Matthew 21:27-31.    “…And he said unto them, Neither tell I you by what authority I do these things.  But what think ye? A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work to day in my vineyard.  He answered and said, I will not: but afterward he repented, and went.  And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, I go, sir: and went not.  Whether of them twain did the will of his father?

They say unto him, The first.

Jesus saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you.”

As we mentioned, the Jews had known what God demanded for seventeen hundred years.  The Publicans and sinners, the ordinary people had ignored the command, but when Jesus came, they listened to what he said and followed God’s command.  The Pharisees and religious leaders had made a big show of obeying God but refused to believe when Christ came.  Jesus Asked which one they thought would be more satisfactory, the ones who initially rebelled but later obeyed, or the ones who made a show of obedience but didn’t follow through.  They agreed that the ones who finally obeyed would be the ones who were most satisfactory, and Jesus made the point that the ones they looked down on for not making the show would be the Ones God would be pleased with. 

Like the Pharisees and priests, many today are more concerned with making a show of serving god than actually obeying him.  I Samuel 15:22 tells us, “And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.”  God is concerned about our obedience, rather than the show we put on.  As Christians we need to not be deceived by glitzy shows, but to look at the reality, both in our own lives and in those who oppose us. 

Don’t Follow the Crowd

The New Testament repeatedly warns us against using the world’s standards of right and wrong to judge people.  The next three incidents Matthew relates illustrate the importance of this.  Matthew 20:30-33 describes the first incident.  “And, behold, two blind men sitting by the way side, when they heard that Jesus passed by, cried out, saying, Have mercy on us, O Lord, thou son of David.  And the multitude rebuked them, because they should hold their peace: but they cried the more, saying, Have mercy on us, O Lord, thou son of David.

And Jesus stood still, and called them, and said, What will ye that I shall do unto you?

They say unto him, Lord, that our eyes may be opened.  So Jesus had compassion on them, and touched their eyes: and immediately their eyes received sight, and they followed him.”

 In our world, there is a great deal of emphasis placed on “the greater good,” or what the most people will want.  As a result the needs and opinions of the minority tend to get overlooked in the effort to please the crowd.  After all, there were only two blind men, and they were not even part of the crowd.    The crowd considered their wishes as less important than those of the crowd and told them to shut up.  The parable of the lost sheep made the point of going after the individual lost sheep, and here we see Jesus applying the principle, addressing the concerns of the blind men rather than focusing on the desires of the multitude.  The crowd is made up of discrete individuals, and if we do not deal with their individual needs, it will fall apart. 

Matthew 21:1-11 describes Jesus triumphal entry into Jerusalem on palm Sunday.  “And when they drew nigh unto Jerusalem, and were come to Bethphage, unto the mount of Olives, then sent Jesus two disciples, Saying unto them, Go into the village over against you, and straightway ye shall find an ass tied, and a colt with her: loose them, and bring them unto me.  And if any man say ought unto you, ye shall say, The Lord hath need of them; and straightway he will send them.  All this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying,  Tell ye the daughter of Sion, Behold, thy King cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an ass, and a colt the foal of an ass.

And the disciples went, and did as Jesus commanded them, And brought the ass, and the colt, and put on them their clothes, and they set him thereon.  And a very great multitude spread their garments in the way; others cut down branches from the trees, and strowed them in the way.  And the multitudes that went before, and that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna to the son of David: Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the highest.  And when he was come into Jerusalem, all the city was moved, saying, Who is this?  And the multitude said, This is Jesus the prophet of Nazareth of Galilee.” 

On Sunday, the entire crowd was celebrating Jesus coming as being a great blessing from God.  Four days later, on Thursday the same crowd was making fun of him and calling for his crucifixion.   God’s plan and Jesus’ message had not changed, but because some religious leaders played on their emotions, the people’s mood had changed.  When people’s attitudes are controlled by their emotions rather than by the Holy Spirit, they can never be depended upon.  The Holy Spirit does not change every time circumstances change, but emotions frequently do. 

The third incident is described in Matthew 21:12-16.  “And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves, And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.

And the blind and the lame came to him in the temple; and he healed them. And when the chief priests and scribes saw the wonderful things that he did, and the children crying in the temple, and saying, Hosanna to the son of David; they were sore displeased, And said unto him, Hearest thou what these say?

And Jesus saith unto them, Yea; have ye never read, Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise?” 

The religious leaders had gotten caught up in trying to make extra money by selling religious items in the temple.  Jesus pointed out that the purpose was not to make money, but to worship God.  Their efforts to make money actually detracted from true worship, making people think the church was just about getting money.    The religious leaders were upset that he ‘wasted’ his time on the poor and needy, instead of living up to their religious ideals and standards.  Jesus responded that real praise and worship comes from the heart, rather than from following some ideal or standard we have learned from others.    Far too often, those who are held in highest religious esteem have little concern for God.   

In all three situations, Jesus demonstrated the need to stay focused on pleasing God rather than simply going along with what others were doing.   

Competition In The Church

We live in a world where there is constant competition, whether for food, or a mate, business, or political power.   Unfortunately, many times people reach a point where winning a competition becomes the most important thing.  A famous coach said, winning is not the most important thing, it is the only thing that matters.    People with such an attitude cheat, even crippling or killing a competitor who might beat them.  It is important for us to realize the competitiveness is a result of man’s sin.  It is not a spiritual gift, and when it comes into the church, it causes problems. 

We see an example in Matthew 20:20-23.  “Then came to him the mother of Zebedee's children with her sons, worshipping him, and desiring a certain thing of him.  And he said unto her, What wilt thou?

She saith unto him, Grant that these my two sons may sit, the one on thy right hand, and the other on the left, in thy kingdom.

But Jesus answered and said, Ye know not what ye ask. Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?

They say unto him, We are able.

And he saith unto them, Ye shall drink indeed of my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with: but to sit on my right hand, and on my left, is not mine to give, but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared of my Father.”

James and Johns mother was quite ambitious for her two sons, asking that they receive the highest positions in the heavenly kingdom.  Jesus asked if they thought they could fulfil his position and do what he was here to accomplish.  Like many competitive or ambitious people, they were not about to admit someone else might be able to do something better than they could, insisting they could do anything he could.  Jesus went on to warn them that they would experience some of same experiences he did, but that even when they did, it would not entitle them to the rewards they were asking for.  Those positions were reserved for the ones God the father had chosen.   Caligula became emperor in 37 Ad, and appointed Herod Agrippa I king over Judea.  Acts 12:1-2 describes Herod having James killed, and Herod died in 44 AD, as described in Acts 12:23.  John would be imprisoned on the Isle of Patmos as described in Revelation 1:9, which he wrote about 93 AD, some thirty years after Jerusalem had been destroyed. 

Ambition and competitiveness invariably causes conflicts in the church, and as Matthew 20:24 tells us, it caused conflict between the apostles.  “And when the ten heard it, they were moved with indignation against the two brethren. “  Jesus intervened, teaching a very important point about church leadership, in Matthew 20:25-28.  “But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them.  But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.” 

Jesus pointed out that in Gentile cultures such as the Roman Empire, there was a very strong hierarchy, with each person answering to their immediate superior.  Among Christians there is to be no such hierarchy.  Ultimately, each person is directly accountable to God, just as God had originally planned for Israel.  Judges 17:6 and 21:25 both tell us, “In those days there was no king in Israel, but every man did that which was right in his own eyes.”  Israel’s choosing a king was an act of rebellion against God as I Samuel 10:19 explains.  “And ye have this day rejected your God, who himself saved you out of all your adversities and your tribulations; and ye have said unto him, Nay, but set a king over us…”    Only after they rejected God’s plan did Israel begin to use a system like other “civilized” groups. 

Leaders were to be chosen because they served others, helping them accomplish things that were needed, rather than making the people do what they wanted.  It was the example Jesus set before the disciples, more concerned about his followers than about getting his own way.  As we see in Matthew 23:8 they were not even to use titles which set one above another, because we are equal before God.  “But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren.”  There is no place for competition or ambition in God’s church.  If they are serving the Lord as they should be, we should be playing on the same team.  If they are not, we are not playing the same game, and don’t need to worry about what they are doing. 

It Is God’s Kingdom

Jesus had just made it clear that a person who was willing to put christ ahead of everything else would be blessed, in Matthew 19:29-30.  “And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life.  But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first.”   He also warned them that the rewards would not be based on who was most respected, or who got saved first. 

He then used a proverb to illustrate his point, in Matthew 20:1-15 “For the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which went out early in the morning to hire labourers into his vineyard.  And when he had agreed with the labourers for a penny a day, he sent them into his vineyard.  And he went out about the third hour, and saw others standing idle in the marketplace, And said unto them; Go ye also into the vineyard, and whatsoever is right I will give you. And they went their way.  Again he went out about the sixth and ninth hour, and did likewise.

And about the eleventh hour he went out, and found others standing idle, and saith unto them, Why stand ye here all the day idle?

They say unto him, Because no man hath hired us.

He saith unto them, Go ye also into the vineyard; and whatsoever is right, that shall ye receive.

So when even was come, the lord of the vineyard saith unto his steward, Call the labourers, and give them their hire, beginning from the last unto the first.  And when they came that were hired about the eleventh hour, they received every man a penny.

But when the first came, they supposed that they should have received more; and they likewise received every man a penny.  And when they had received it, they murmured against the goodman of the house,  Saying, These last have wrought but one hour, and thou hast made them equal unto us, which have borne the burden and heat of the day.

But he answered one of them, and said, Friend, I do thee no wrong: didst not thou agree with me for a penny?  Take that thine is, and go thy way: I will give unto this last, even as unto thee.  Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good?  So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen.”

The householder had agreed to pay a penny a day for each man who worked in his field.  Unfortunately, there were not enough workers available when he started, so he had to go back to find additional workers several times in an effort to get the grapes picked before they started to spoil.  The last group the hired had been out looking for work, but had not found anyone to hire them, so he put them to work just an hour before quitting time.  At the end of the day he paid each man a full day’s pay even though some had only worked for an hour or so. 

Some of those who had worked the entire day felt that it was unfair that they didn’t get paid more than those who only worked an hour.  The owner pointed out they had been paid what they had agreed to work for.  It was his money, and he had the right to give the same pay to those who came later if he chose to.   He was not cheating those who came first by paying everyone the same amount for coming and helping him out.  Similarly, God will not be cheating anyone by giving the same salvation to those who got saved on their deathbed as those who got saved as a little child.  It is God’s kingdom and he has the right to make the rules as he sees fit.  He has made salvation available to everyone, but not everyone will accept Christ, and thus some will not receive it.  Judas had the same opportunity to be saved as the other disciples, but he chose not to believe, and was condemned. 

What Are The Rewards?

Jesus had just told the rich young man, “If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me.  But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions,” in Matthew 19:21-22.  The young man walked away, unwilling to do what Jesus said.  Jesus had then pointed out that people who were into physical things such as wealth rarely were willing to give them up for God’s sake, and as a result few would ever be saved or get into heaven. 

Unlike the rich young man, Peter, Andrew, James and John had given up their fishing businesses, and Matthew had given up a lucrative position as a tax collector.  Others had given up other careers and businesses, and left their families behind to follow Christ.    Matthew 19:27 tells us, “Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore?”    They had done what Jesus said would be necessary to get into heaven and now they wanted to know if it would get them into heaven.  Originally, the disciples had simply believed Jesus was the Messiah, with no thought of rewards for following him.  It just seemed like what they should do.  Jesus comments had made them think about what rewards there might be. 

Jesus reassured them in Matthew 19:28-30.  “And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.  And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life.  But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first.” 

Because they had followed him with no concern for their own benefit, they would be placed in authority over the nation of Israel when Christ sets up his earthly kingdom.  It is believed they will be part of the elders mentioned in Revelation 4:4-5 and 10-11, and again in Revelation 20:4.  The last passage not only refers to the twelve apostles, but also to every person who has made a similar commitment to Christ, willing to give up their earthly ambitions and possessions simply because they believe in Christ, and are not thinking about what the rewards will be. 

He went on to warn them that some of those who were most respected would miss out completely while some of those who were unknown would receive the greatest rewards.  A prime example is Judas Iscariot.  Judas was so highly respected among the disciples they had put him in charge of their finances. When Jesus announced in John 13:21-29 that one of them would betray him, none of them thought it could be Judas.    

“When Jesus had thus said, he was troubled in spirit, and testified, and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me.

Then the disciples looked one on another, doubting of whom he spake.   Now there was leaning on Jesus' bosom one of his disciples, whom Jesus loved.  Simon Peter therefore beckoned to him, that he should ask who it should be of whom he spake.  He then lying on Jesus' breast saith unto him, Lord, who is it?

Jesus answered, He it is, to whom I shall give a sop, when I have dipped it. And when he had dipped the sop, he gave it to Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon.  And after the sop Satan entered into him. Then said Jesus unto him, That thou doest, do quickly.  Now no man at the table knew for what intent he spake this unto him.  For some of them thought, because Judas had the bag, that Jesus had said unto him, Buy those things that we have need of against the feast; or, that he should give something to the poor.” 

Even after Jesus told them the one who will betray me is the one I give this piece of bread to, the disciples didn’t believe Judas would betray Jesus, but assumed he was being given some special job to do for the Lord.  They thought it more likely that they would personally betray Jesus than that Judas would.  He probably seemed like the most spiritual man among them.   Jesus’ statement reminds us of what God told Samuel in I Samuel 16:7,  “…for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.”  Often, all we see is the outward appearances and actions, but God knows a person’s heart.   We need to be careful not to follow people simply because others think they are above reproach or because they seem to be doing great things. 

II Corinthians 11:13-15 warns some of the best known and most respected are false teachers pretending to be from God.  “For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.   And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.  Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.”  God is not fooled, and they will be rewarded according to what they do.  Jesus is reinforcing what he told them in Matthew 7:21-23. 

What Is Required For Salvation?

A man came to Jesus in Matthew 19:16 asking a question that religious people have been asking for thousands of years.  “And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?”  Religion focuses on man’s actions, whether following some specific moral code, fasting and praying to obtain some spiritual sign or power, destroying other religions, or giving to some specific cause.  If they just do enough good things, surely they can earn eternal life.   Even many who are called Christians have this idea, often illustrating it with a scale comparing a person’s good deeds to their bad ones.  If the good outweighs the bad, they believe they will got heaven, and if the bad outweighs the good, they will go to hell. 

People can fool us with their words or actions as Solomon warned in Proverbs 23:6-8, their attitude determines what kind of person they really are, as Proverbs 23:7 states.  “For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he…”   This was the point Jesus was making in Matthew 19:17.  “And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.”   Human attitudes are inherently evil, as Genesis 6:5 tells us.  “And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.”   As a result, Romans 3:10-12 tells us, “As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God.  They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.” 

If a person were truly good enough to get into heaven they would naturally do the things God has commanded, as Jesus told him.   People nearly always understand they haven’t kept them all, and want to know which ones they have to keep, like the man in Matthew 19:18-19.  “He saith unto him, Which?

Jesus said, Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Honour thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.”  Thesew are all straightforward actions people can do even though they may resent having to do them, and Matthew 19:20 tells us the young man was confidant he had.  “The young man saith unto him, All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet?”  Despite his confidence in having done those things he knew something was lacking. 

To be good enough to get into heaven would require more than mechanically keeping the law, as Jesus told him in Matthew 19:21-22.  “Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me.  But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions.”   Jesus told the young man the same thing he told the multitude in Luke 14:26-33.  “If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple.  And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple.  

For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?  Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him, Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish. Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand?  Or else, while the other is yet a great way off, he sendeth an ambassage, and desireth conditions of peace.  So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.”

While he wanted eternal life, they young man did not want it enough to give up his earthly life to get it.  Jesus warned his disciples that most people who have a good life here will not be willing to give it up to get saved, in Matthew 19:23-24.  “Then said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven.  And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.”  The focus on material belongings and earthly attainments overrides most people’s concern about eternity, if they are forced to make a choice. 

The disciples were just as shocked by Jesus’ statement as many Christians are today at the idea that salvation requires more than simply praying the sinner’s prayer, as we see in Matthew 19:25-26.  “When his disciples heard it, they were exceedingly amazed, saying, Who then can be saved?

But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.”  If what Jesus said was true, how could anyone ever make such a commitment by faith?  It is hard to motivate people to give up today’s pleasure without some kind of short term rewards.  Jesus said only God could give people that kind of faith.  Ephesians 2:8 tells us, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.”  Salvation is a gift from God obtained through faith, but even that faith comes from God.  No amount of psychological tricks or motivational preaching will produce it.  John 6:44 tells us, “No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day.”  While God may use our witnessing to reach people, they only get saved as a result of his working, not our impassioned pleas.  Only God can change the heart attitude to make a person fit for heaven. 

Letting Children Come

“Then were there brought unto him little children, that he should put his hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them.  But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.  And he laid his hands on them, and departed thence.” (Matthew 19:13-15)

Several years ago, while on deputation, I was shocked at the number of campgrounds that did not allow children because the older people did not want to be disturbed.  When I looked around, I found that many neighborhood associations and apartments had similar policies.  I met grandparents who told me they rented a single bedroom apartment so that they would not have to put up with their grandkids overnight.  Hundreds of young women postpone having children, because they do not want anything to interfere with their career, and those who have children put them in daycare or hire babysitters as soon as possible so that they can enjoy their career.  Thousands of women have abortions because a child would interfere with their education or chosen lifestyle.  With such an attitude toward children, it is not surprising that so many of them have a selfish and rebellious attitude.

Sadly, the same attitude has come into the church.  Several years ago, I started a bus route to a small community to pick up kids for church because the pastor of a church in the community had told the people the children were too disruptive and should not be brought.  A rather famous pastor told the people not to bring children into the main service because they might cause a disturbance and quench the spirit.  Many times children’s church programs are primarily for keeping the kids from causing a disturbance.  As a result, the kids do not feel like they are an important part of the church and drop out when they start high school or college. 

Jesus was very specific in stating that the children were to be allowed to come along with the adults.  While we may assume they get very little out of it, Jesus said, “for of such is the kingdom of heaven.”  Though they may seem to pay little attention, it is amazing how much they pick up, and they are strongly influenced by the attitudes of the adults around them.   As a child, I remember feeling very important to be allowed to accompany my dad to a meeting even though I had little interest in the meeting at the time, and years later being allowed to go had a tremendous influence on my development as a pastor and missionary.  There need to be times when the children sit with the adults and learn they are part of the church, and the adults need to learn to show consideration for them as Romans 15:1 tells us.  “We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves.”  The adults ought to be mature enough to overlook or deal with a little childish behavior.   The Holy Spirit is God, and if a child is able to quench the spirit and prevent him from working the spirit involved must not be the Holy Spirit.  Jesus said we are not to forbid them to come.  When we become so selfish we cannot bear to have little children around we are definitely not walking in the Spirit or showing God’s love. 

Divorce and Remarriage

The Old Testament Law Had given very specific guidelines about marriage and divorce.  Over the centuries, the Jews had developed various schools of interpretation of that Law, leading to confusion as to what it actually meant.  The Pharisees hoped to use that confusion to entrap Jesus, in Matthew 19:3.  “The Pharisees also came unto him, tempting him, and saying unto him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause?”  Essentially, they were asking the question many ask today, as to what are the acceptable grounds for a divorce for those who serve God. 

In Matthew 19:4-6, Jesus answered the question by referring to God’s creation of mankind and the institution of marriage in Genesis 2.  “And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female, And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh?  Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” 

Contrary to popular religious or legal practice, a marriage is not the result of a legal or religious ceremony.  It is the result of God joining the man and woman together, and I Corinthians 6:16 makes it very clear this is accomplished through the sex act, even if is with a prostitute.  “What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for two, saith he, shall be one flesh.”  Since is is an act of God, no human entity, whether government, religious organization, parents, or the couple themselves have the right to break that marriage. 

Just as they do today, people were using all kinds of excuses for getting divorces because the Law had allowed it in certain instances.  If divorce was never acceptable, as Jesus said, the Pharisees wanted to know why the law permitted it, as Matthew 19:7 tells us.  “They say unto him, Why did Moses then command to give a writing of divorcement, and to put her away?” 

Jesus was very specific that divorce is never God’s will in Matthew 19:8-9.  “He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so.  And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.”  Because of man’s sinful rebellious nature the law permitted divorce under certain conditions, but it was never God’s intention.  Malachi 2:16 is very clear that God hates divorce.  “For the LORD, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away…”   Because people deliberately do wicked things there are times when divorce can be overlooked, as for example when the mate is physically abusive. 

He went on to say that if they separated for any reason other than a sexual affair by their mate, to remarry makes them an adulterer or adulteress, and the one who marries them is also an adulterer.  This is exactly the same thing he said in Matthew 5:32.  “But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.”  The separation exposes one’s mate to temptation, and one needs to realize they will be held accountable for tempting their mate.

Please understand that the word translated divorce refers solely to what we call a legal separation.  Before God, they are still married according to Romans 7:2-3.   “For the woman which hath an husband is bound by the law to her husband so long as he liveth; but if the husband be dead, she is loosed from the law of her husband.   So then if, while her husband liveth, she be married to another man, she shall be called an adulteress: but if her husband be dead, she is free from that law; so that she is no adulteress, though she be married to another man.”  Based on these facts, I Corinthians 7:10-11 is very clear.  “And unto the married I command, yet not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from her husband: But and if she depart, let her remain unmarried, or be reconciled to her husband: and let not the husband put away his wife.”  Incompatibility, an emotional affair, or even abuse does not free one to remarry. 

This teaching is unpopular today, and even Jesus’ disciples were bothered by it, according to Matthew 19:10.  “His disciples say unto him, If the case of the man be so with his wife, it is not good to marry.”  Jesus went on to explain that not everyone will be able to live up to this standard, in Matthew 19:11-12.  “But he said unto them, All men cannot receive this saying, save they to whom it is given.  For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from their mother's womb: and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it.”  Some people will marry an abusive mate or one who is determined to get divorce, and be forced to violate it, while others will simply lack the commitment.  Those who live up to this standard are to be commended, not condemned or considered abnormal because they put God first.

Forgiving Others

Many Christians find it hard to forgive others, because they seem to do the same things over and over.  Peter was struggling with the same things, in Matthew 18:21.  “Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times?”   Surely, to repeat the action seven times indicates he really doesn’t intend to change.   Unfortunately, we often forget how hard it is for people to break bad habits.  It may take them far longer than that to break the habit, as Jesus pointed out in Matthew 18:22.  “Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.”  Essentially, Jesus is saying we should not be trying to keep track.  Jesus then used a parable to demonstrate the reasons behind such forgiveness, In Matthew 18:23-32. 

 “Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants.  And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents.  But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made.  The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all.  Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt.

But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellowservants, which owed him an hundred pence: and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest.

And his fellowservant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all.  And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt.

So when his fellowservants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done.  Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee?  And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him.”

The first employee owed ten thousand talents.  A talent is about seventy pounds, so he owed seven hundred thousand pounds, probably of silver to his master.  It would amount to more than a hundred sixty million dollars at today’s prices for silver.  Though his boss had the right to take everything he owned and garnish his wages until the debt was paid, he agreed to drop his claim because the servant asked for mercy.   

The employee then filed a suit against a man who owed him about two hundred dollars, insisting that his property be seized and his wages garnished until he was paid off.   The other employees complained that the first one could get by with not repaying a hundred sixty million dollars yet would file criminal charges over a measly two hundred dollars that was owed to him.  His boss agreed and reinstated his claim against the employee, taking his belongings and garnishing his wages until the debt was paid.  Obviously, he wasn’t willing to extend the same courtesy to others that he had been given.  Matthew 18:35 warns, “So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.”  Jesus is simply saying we should not expect God to treat us better than we treat others. 

He has forgiven us for every sin we committed, and we ought to forgive others just as completely as he has forgiven us.  If we refuse, it because we are not willing to admit how much sin he had to forgive.  Like the servant, all we cared about was getting out of trouble, not about doing what was right.  Salvation is the result of a changed heart attitude, not just saying you’re sorry.   

Wayward Sheep

People tend to judge and put down others in an effort to make themselves look better and support their pride.  Jesus had just warned about the consequences of judging and turning others away.  In Matthew 18:11 he reminded them, “For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost.”  It was the same thing he had told them in Matthew 9:11-13.  “And when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto his disciples, Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners?

But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. Mt 9:13 But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”  Jesus did come to help those who were without fault.  He came to help those who were messed up and unable to help themselves.  These are the ones who realize their need and want his help.  He used another parable to help them understand what he meant, in Matthew 18:12-14. 

“How think ye? if a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray?  And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray.  Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.” 

To a good shepherd, every sheep matters, and a lost one is a serious matter.  If he realizes one is missing, he will make sure the others are safe, then go out and search for the lost one.  If he finds it safe, he will be more excited about having recovered it than he is about the ninety nine who were safe, because he cares just as much for its safety as for any of the others.  In the same way, Christ cares about that one who isn’t doing as well just as much as for those who are.  When we drive them away, we grieve him.  As he described in the parable of the tares and the wheat, sometimes it is better to just let them stay in the church until it is clear whether they are of God or of Satan. 

With this in mind, Jesus gave specific instructions as to how we should deal with people who are not doing w3hat is right, in Matthew 18:15-18.  “Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.  But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.  And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as a heathen man and a publican.  Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”

If someone is doing something that is not right and brings a reproach on the church, we should go to them privately first, because it is entirely possible they do not realize they are doing anything wrong, or that they need some help stopping.  If that resolves the problem it should not go any further.  He is trying to do what is right.  If the person doesn’t make any effort to change, then we should take two or three others with us to make it clear it not just our opinion but is in fact something that is truly wrong.  If he still makes no effort to change, then we are to bring him before the church as a whole to see if peer pressure will make him reconsider what he is doing.  If he doesn’t care what the church or God says about his actions we are to treat him like any unsaved person with no interest in God, because they may not be saved.  We are not to shun them. 

This does not contradict Paul’s teaching in I Corinthians 5.  The man described thare was doing something that even the unbelievers in Corinth considered unacceptable.  The man clearly knew what he was doing was unacceptable, and refused to stop.  At that point, they had no choice but to exclude him from the church if he refused to listen, in hopes it would get his attention.   Even the goal is to get him to acknowledge his sin and make changes, not just to get him out of the church.  Failure to follow the steps usually defeats the purpose of church discipline.  We need to do it the way Christ commanded so that we don’t lose any of God’s sheep. 

Spiritual Competition

Thanks to Adam’s and Eve’s sin in the garden, survival on earth became much harder, with mankind having to work to get their food.  As a result of that sin mankind’s nature changed, and they became selfish.  Competition for food or mate or control of an area became part of the human experience, and today competition is apparent in almost everything people do.  They may compete for jobs, for mates, for housing, for fame, or political power, for sports championships, or for control of a gang, a business, or a religious organization.  

As we see in Matthew 18:1, Jesus disciples still had that same competitive nature.  “At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?”  Mark 9:33-34 tells us there had been some argument over who would be the greatest.   “And he came to Capernaum: and being in the house he asked them, What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way?  But they held their peace: for by the way they had disputed among themselves, who should be the greatest.”  They asked Jesus who would be the greatest in heaven.   It was like asking what the rules were so they could know how to win. 

His answer in Matthew 18:2-4 completely destroys the idea of competition.  “And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.  Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”  He said that unless one was changed, developing an attitude like a little child, a person would not even get into heaven.  The greatest one would be the one with the most childlike attitude.    At first the child has no hesitation about sharing, but as he grows he becomes increasingly selfish and self-willed.   The greatest in heaven will be those who are least concerned about themselves and their own benefit. 

With our competitive attitudes, we begin to set some above others, picking some for our team and ignoring others.  In Matthew 18:5-7 Jesus warned against such an attitude.  “And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.  But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.  Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh!” 

They are God’s people.  If we accept them as such, we are honoring God.  When we refuse to accept them, and turn them away, we dishonor God.  Paul addressed this same issue in I Corinthians 12.  In I Corinthians 12:18-23, he wrote, “ But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.  And if they were all one member, where were the body?  But now are they many members, yet but one body.  And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.   Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary: And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness.”

God places the members in the local church according to his plan.  When we begin to treat them as inferior or drive them away, we indicate we are better qualified to decide who should be in the church than He is, and we will face his Judgment for the way we have offended them.  People are going to get offended and turn away from time to time, but we need to make sure we are not causing them to.  Romans 14:12-13 reminds us, “So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.  Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way.”   We need to remember God is the judge and we will be judged for our own actions.  

Instead of judging others, we need to judge ourselves, as Matthew 18:8-11makes very clear.  “Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire.  And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire.  Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven.  For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost.”

Christ came to save those who were lost.  He is going to hold those who hinder people accountable for hindering them.  It would be better to eliminate anything you cannot bring under control, whether it is a wandering eye, looking at other men or women; an addiction to porn; covetousness; addiction to alcohol or drugs leading you to bars or dealers or whatever else it might be, including your attitude toward other Christians, even if it requires a physical action such as amputating a leg or removing one’s eyes to stop.    Forget about competing with others, and concentrate on pleasing God yourself, making sure you are pleasing to him.    

Christianity and Earthly Laws

Many times laws are passed that people are uncomfortable with for one reason or another.  At what point should a Christian refuse to obey the law?  Matthew 17:24-26 addresses this issue.  “And when they were come to Capernaum, they that received tribute money came to Peter, and said, Doth not your master pay tribute?

He saith, Yes.

And when he was come into the house, Jesus prevented him, saying, What thinkest thou, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? of their own children, or of strangers?

Peter saith unto him, Of strangers.

Jesus saith unto him, Then are the children free.  Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee.” 

Under Roman law Territories outside Rome were required to pay tribute to support the Roman military and government for their region.  Citizens of Rome were largely exempt from this tribute.   Most Jews resented paying the Roman taxes and many refused to pay.   The tax collectors asked Peter if Jesus paid taxes.  Peter wasn’t sure, but he answered yes, not wishing to get Jesus into trouble. 

When he came into the house, Jesus stopped him, asking whether he thought rulers would be more likely to collect taxes from their own supporters and family, or from people from other lands doing business in a country.  It was obvious to Peter that the primary taxes would be made against foreigners who benefitted from living in the country.  The king’s own children and people around him serve as his representatives and ambassadors, receiving the benefit of the taxes he collects. 

The king’s ambassadors and representatives are responsible for promoting good relations between the king’s government and the people around them, and obeying the laws or paying the taxes would greatly improve such relationships.  Ambassadors who refuse to obey the countries laws may have their diplomatic immunity revoked and be forced to leave the country.  Their sending country may revoke their diplomatic immunity and allow them to be prosecuted for their crimes in an effort to preserve a peaceful relationship between the countries and promote cooperation.

Christians are God’s children, and they are his representatives  to the world.  To promote peace between God and the people on earth, it is necessary Christians show respect to the people of the world, obeying the same laws they obey.  It is with this in mind that Paul wrote Romans 13:1-7. 

“Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.  Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.  For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.

Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.  For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing.  Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.”

While God is ultimate ruler of the universe, he has authorized worldly governments.  As his children, we are to respect the authority he has given them, obeying the laws they have made.  We have not been granted diplomatic immunity, and they have the authority to enforce those laws.  We should obey the laws because it is the right thing to do and God has commanded us obey, not because we fear the punishment.   If we refuse, we are defying God. 

The only time we have the right to disobey the law is when the law clearly violates God’s commands, in which case, as Acts 5:29 states, “…We ought to obey God rather than men.”   We do not have the right to disobey because it contradicts our convictions or offends our conscience.  Our convictions or our conscience are not to be our God.

Powerful Faith

When Jesus went up on the mount of transfiguration, nine of his disciples had been left behind.  Because they were his disciples, the people came to them for help.  Matthew 17:14-16 describes what had happened.  “And when they were come to the multitude, there came to him a certain man, kneeling down to him, and saying, Lord, have mercy on my son: for he is a lunatic, and sore vexed: for ofttimes he falleth into the fire, and oft into the water.  And I brought him to thy disciples, and they could not cure him.” 

Everyone, including the disciples had expected them to be able to cast out the demon, because when the twelve went out they had been excited about being able to cast out demons.  The father of the child was really concerned that they could not do it, and asked Jesus if he could help him.  He was concerned that the boy was insane and frequently did self- destructive things.  Sooner or later he would probably die of one of them. 

Jesus wondered how long it would be before they finally believed in him.   He had no problem healing the child, in Matthew 17:17-18.   “Then Jesus answered and said, O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him hither to me.  And Jesus rebuked the devil; and he departed out of him: and the child was cured from that very hour.”  He was frustrated that the people had no doubt of his power cast out demons and heal the child, yet refused to believe he was the Messiah.   What would it take to convince them?  

“Then came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, Why could not we cast him out?

And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.  Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.” (Matthew 17:19-21)

The disciples were concerned that they had been unable to cast out this demon when others had been no problem.  Jesus responded that the problem was a lack of faith on their part.  Even a small amount of faith would enable them to do anything.   Jesus was not scolding them for the lack of faith, but pointed out that such faith can only be obtained through prayer and fasting. 

Unfortunately most people are more concerned with casting out the demon or obtaining a desired result than they are with growing their faith.  As a result they fast and pray trying to get God to act.  Their fasting becomes no more than a hunger strike in an attempt to force God to give in, and their prayers are just nagging, in an attempt to wear him down. 

Isaiah 58:5-9 forbids fasting to try to get God to do something.  “Behold, ye fast for strife and debate, and to smite with the fist of wickedness: ye shall not fast as ye do this day, to make your voice to be heard on high.  Is it such a fast that I have chosen? a day for a man to afflict his soul? is it to bow down his head as a bulrush, and to spread sackcloth and ashes under him? wilt thou call this a fast, and an acceptable day to the LORD?  Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke?  Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh? Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the LORD shall be thy rereward.  Then shalt thou call, and the LORD shall answer; thou shalt cry, and he shall say, Here I am. If thou take away from the midst of thee the yoke, the putting forth of the finger, and speaking vanity.” 

Fasting that pleases God is focused on getting to know him better and doing what he has commanded.   The parable of the unjust Judge points out that God is not like the unjust judge and does not need to be nagged to get a response.  When we pray in such a manner, it is because we lack faith, as we see in Matthew 6:7-8, and our praying becomes sinful.  “But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.  Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.”   I John 5:14-15 tells us, “And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.” 

When our prayers and fasting are focused on getting to know the Lord rather than on getting what we want, then the Holy Spirit produces faith in us that can face any challenge.   When we only pray for results, our faith does not grow.