Daily Bible Reading, January 2023 - God’s Saving Word: Unity in Christ JesusSample

January 18

Introduction

When some Pharisees and Sadducees ask Jesus to perform a miracle, he challenges the legitimacy of their request. He then warns his disciples to guard themselves against the dishonest teachings of these religious leaders.

Scripture Reading

Matthew 16:1-12

Today’s Key Verse: Matthew 16:11

[Jesus said:] “How is it that you don’t understand that I was not talking about bread? Guard yourselves from the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees!”

Reflect

Why did some Pharisees and Sadducees ask Jesus to perform a miracle? How did Jesus respond? The reference to bread in verses 8-11 recalls the earlier two feedings of thousands of people as recorded in Matthew 14:13-21 and 15:32-39. Why did Jesus chide the disciples about their faith? What was it that they didn’t understand? What warning did Jesus give his disciples concerning the Pharisees and Sadducees? By employing the metaphor of yeast, Jesus was teaching that the dishonest teachings of these religious leaders were affecting the whole people of Israel the way a little bit of yeast makes a whole batch of dough rise. What “yeast” do we need to watch out for today?

Pray

Lord Jesus, help me to be on guard against false teachings and to discern the truth by listening to your voice and following you. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Matthew 16:13-28:Peter declares Jesus to be the Messiah.