1/10/10 Matthew 12 – Something Greater
I relish in the fact that the “something greater” in Mt 12:6, 41, 42 is Jesus. The Pharisees questioned Jesus and the disciples for not doing what is lawful on the Sabbath. What they were saying is that you and your followers are not greater than the law. You are not greater than the priests, who are the only ones that are permitted to “work” under the Sabbath restrictions. Jesus’ response takes their logic to its inevitable conclusion. Jesus states “something greater than the temple is here” in verse 6. What Jesus means is that He takes precedent over the temple worship. Localized worship is not part of the new covenant. Yea! (Jn 4:21-24). He also takes precedent over the Sabbath restrictions. Yea! (Mt 12:8) He also takes precedent over the priests and the Law. He fulfills the Law (Mt 5:17), something a priest could not do. Therefore, Jesus is “something greater” He is the great High Priest. Yea!
In verse 42 Jesus and Jonah are compared because both were delivered from death as a sign and confirmation of the message that they preached. Jonah’s sign and message impacted the Gentile city of Nineveh. Jesus’ sign and message impacts all nations for all times. Therefore, Jesus is “something greater” He is the greatest Prophet. Yea!
Finally, verse 43 compares Solomon because of his wisdom and his kingship. The Queen of the South heard about Solomon’s great wisdom and traveled from afar to verify it. Jesus has greater wisdom and there is no need to travel anywhere to verify it. (Rom 10:6-13) Therefore, Jesus is “something greater” He is the greatest King. Yea!
So the questioning Pharisees, who now have been angered and silenced, will not find anyone who has the credentials to serve in the three sacred offices of Priest, Prophet, and King.
Prayer: Our Father, thank you for the Lord Jesus Christ being “something greater”; our Priest, Prophet, and King. Amen