The Glory of Jesus in Matthew 11

Last night our home group loved exploring the fascinating contrasts of Matthew 11.

The one who 'prepares the way' for Jesus, has a wobble when the 'way of Jesus' (suffering) hits.

Jesus is the fulfilment of Isaiah 61, but doesn't release the captives (i.e. John!)

The Lord of new creation does not fix everything in the old.

John the Baptist is the greatest of men and least in the Kingdom.

Those most prepared for the King are least responsive to His coming.

The Kingdom is too serious and too joyous for the 'children' of Christ's generation.

One kind of 'child' is fickle (v16), but Jesus wants us to be 'little children' in a different sense (v25)

Joy-filled Jesus (v19) shows He is a Jealous Judge (v20)

The best of the best according to the flesh (Chorazin, Bethsaida, Capernaum) are the worst spiritual Sodomites.

They reject a Jesus who is only bringing life, healing, blessing, restoration!

Judge Jesus turns instantly back to joy in v25.

God delights to hide Himself... on full display to the world. (v25-27)

Jesus is God's open secret, inviting the world into the most intimate family mystery.

Jesus Himself is unknown to any but the Father, even as He freely reveals the Father.

Jesus claims to hold all divine power and to be 'lowly in heart.'

He has mighty hands (v27) and a meek heart (v29).

There is a "yoke" that gives "rest"

The Judge of all has come to give the world an easy life.