Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
November 25. 2024: SOAP #5471: Matthew 20-22

(re worked from 2021)

SCRIPTURE:  Matthew (NIV) 22:29 Jesus replied, “You are in error because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God.

OBSERVATION:   Jesus was speaking to the Sadducees, who not believing in the resurrection, were trying to trick Him by asking a question about the resurrection!  Jesus answered their question about being married in heaven, and then from the scriptures proved the fact of the resurrection.  God, who is the God of the living, claims to be the God of those who had died long ago. 

If they had known the scriptures and the power of God, they would have no trouble believing in the resurrection!  

APPLICATION:  It is easy to get stumped on the issues of life when I do not know, or forget what the scriptures say.  For then I cannot rely on what the Bible says; I cannot rely on the greatness of God.  I cannot rely on His omnipotence (all powerful).  I cannot rely on His omnipresence (present everywhere).  I cannot rely on His omniscience (all knowing).  In my thoughts, my problems become greater than my God.  I take more time thinking about my problems than about my God.  I forget that He works through ALL things for good!  I forget that He loves me enough to send Jesus to die for my sins.  How could I ever forget that!  

We cannot overemphasize the value of the scriptures and having a personal relationship with God.  God uses the scriptures to keep us from error.  The scriptures need to be a part of our active memory, always the dominant thought in our minds.  We need to see everything in relationship to our all-powerful God! 

Note: These SOAPs go to many places where people do not have Bibles, or even may not be able to read.  Pastors, it is your priority to get the Word to them.  Set up times during the day or several times each week, that they can gather in the home of someone who has a Bible to hear the scriptures read.  If you give out Bibles, assign places where they can be read publicly.  Assign them passages to be read.  There is power in God’s Word! 

PRAYER:  Holy Spirit, continue to remind me of what the Bible tells me.  Remind me of the power of God.  Remind me that God is for me!  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!   
On Facebook:  Today’s SOAP from Pastor Leon