Devotional Reflections on the Teachings of Jesus from the Four Gospels
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Devotional Reflections
on the Teachings of Jesus
from the
Four Gospels
Part One
The Gospel of Matthew
Christian Worship
Jesus said: “It is written, ‘Worship the Lord your God.’” (Matthew 4:10)
Abraham Heschel, the great Jewish religious leader, made an observation beneficial to Jews and Christians alike: “God may be of no concern to man, but man is of much concern to God. The only way to discover this is the ultimate way, the way of worship. For worship is a way of living, a way of seeing the world in the light of God.”
In what form does Christian worship manifest those distinctive qualities that make it truly Christian in nature? Through the centuries, two elements have continued together. They are the preaching and hearing of the Word, and the celebration of the Eucharist (the Lord’s supper). Although they differ in actual presentation, one being spoken and the other being acted, they are identical in their essential function. They both exist to proclaim the gospel of Christ’s redeeming grace in all its power and glory.
So the command remains: “You shall worship the Lord your God.” Why? Worship is the dynamic, personal involvement of the Christian in the kingdom of God. In other words, our worship here is a faint echo of the celebration in heaven.
Questions for Reflection
• At times, do you feel that you are of no concern to God or anyone else?
• What effort have you made to remedy the problem?
• Have you considered talking it over with a friend?
• Have you sought the help of a professional counselor?
• Most important, have you discussed the matter with God?
• Have you given worship a chance in your life? When and with what frequency?
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About the Book
Based on the singular conviction of the divine inspiration of the scriptures, Devotional Reflections on the Teachings of Jesus from the Four Gospels, by author Charles Lee Holland Jr., helps Christians appropriate, assimilate, and apply the words of Christ to the challenges of daily living.
Through the teachings of Jesus in the gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, Holland offers a clearer understanding of how the words of the Bible are pertinent to the rapidly evolving issues emerging in the twenty-first century. The commentaries provide answers to many frequently asked questions for those eager to hear a fresh word from the Lord, demonstrating that the teachings of Jesus remain God’s word to all people.
Designed for personal devotion time as well as group or class study, Devotional Reflections on the Teachings of Jesus from the Four Gospels invites Christians to hear the winsome words of Jesus of Nazareth.
About the Author
Charles Lee Holland Jr. is a retired Methodist minister active in interim pastorates, Bible teaching seminars, classes, and group studies. In addition, he continues his ministry of interpretive writing of books, articles, and sermons. Holland pastored churches in several states and Washington, DC, and has also served as adjunct professor in several seminaries and universities. He and his wife, Jeanette, have three daughters, nine grandchildren, and several great-grandchildren. They live in Fort Worth, Texas.