Lord of the Sabbath

This morning we continue in our study through the gospel according to Matthew as we consider Matthew 12:1-14. In the text we see that Jesus is the Son of Man who is Lord of the Sabbath. Jesus is the greater David, the greater Priest, and the greater Temple. Jesus says, "If you had known what this means, 'I desire mercy, and not sacrifice,' you would not have condemned the guiltless" (Matthew 12:7).

Jesus is our Great High Priest, who worked on our behalf and took our sins upon himself. Jesus was profaned that we might be declared guiltless. Jesus is the once and for all sacrifice for sinners to be shown mercy. Jesus is the one who heals us as his hands were stretched out upon the cross. Jesus was destroyed that we might be built up. Jesus was killed that we might find life. Would God give us grace to experience the mercy of God in Jesus that we would show mercy to others. Jesus is the Lord of the Sabbath. We can find rest for our souls in Jesus. This rest starts now and will find fullest fulfillment when Jesus comes again.