The Amazement Caused by Christ
Let us explore the profound and recurring theme of amazement that surrounded Jesus Christ, a testament to His divine nature and power.
1. The Amazement of Jesus' Wisdom (Matthew 13:54)
“And when he came to his own country, he taught them in their synagogue, insomuch that they were astonished, and said, Whence hath this man this wisdom and these mighty works?” (Matthew 13:54). Even those who knew Jesus from childhood were astounded by His wisdom. Yet, while many marveled, few truly embraced Him as Lord.
2. Amazement at the Miracles of Jesus (Matthew 15:31)
“Then the multitudes marveled when they saw the mute speaking, the maimed whole, the lame walking, and the blind seeing: and they glorified the God of Israel.” (Matthew 15:31). Jesus’ miracles were not mere spectacles; they were tangible demonstrations of God’s power, inspiring awe and leading people to glorify His name.
3. Amazement at His Teachings (Matthew 22:22,33)
“And when they heard it, they marveled, and left him, and went their way.” (Matthew 22:22). “And the multitude, when they heard this, were greatly astonished at his doctrine.” (Matthew 22:33). Jesus’ teachings, filled with wisdom and truth, challenged the status quo and revealed the kingdom of God. His words left a lasting impact, even on those who ultimately rejected Him.
4. The Amazement After the Healing of the Paralytic (Mark 2:12)
“And he arose immediately, and took up his bed, and went out in the sight of them all: so that they were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, We never saw anything like this.” 1 (Mark 2:12). The healing of the paralytic was a powerful display of Jesus’ authority over both physical and spiritual ailments, prompting awe and worship.
5. Amazement at the Power Over Nature (Mark 4:41)
“And they were filled with great fear, and said among themselves, What manner of man then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?” (Mark 4:41). Jesus’ calming of the storm revealed His dominion over creation, leaving even His closest disciples in awe and wonder.
6. The Amazement of Jesus' Power in Healing and Deliverance (Mark 7:37)
“And they were exceedingly astonished, saying, He doeth all things well: he maketh the deaf to hear, and the dumb to speak.” (Mark 7:37). Jesus’ healing power extended beyond physical ailments, bringing restoration and wholeness to lives shattered by sickness and despair.
7. Amazement at Christ's Words on Salvation (Mark 10:24)
“And the disciples were astonished at his words: but Jesus answered them again, and said unto them, Children, how hard it is for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God!” (Mark 10:24). Jesus’ teachings challenged the world’s values, revealing the true nature of the kingdom of God and the path to salvation.
8. The Amazement at the Wisdom of the Child Jesus (Luke 2:48)
“And when they saw him, they marveled: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee anxiously.” (Luke 2:48). Even as a child, Jesus displayed extraordinary wisdom, foreshadowing His divine nature and purpose.
9. Amazement at Jesus' Gracious Words (Luke 4:22)
“And all bare him witness, and marveled at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth, and said, Is not this Joseph's son?” (Luke 4:22). Jesus’ words were filled with grace and authority, captivating His listeners, yet many failed to recognize His true identity.
10. Amazement at the Power Over Spirits (Luke 4:36)
“And they were all amazed, and they talked among themselves, saying, What is this word, that with authority and power he commandeth even the unclean spirits, and they come out?” (Luke 4:36). Jesus’ authority over the spiritual realm demonstrated His power to break the chains of darkness and set captives free.
11. Amazement at Jesus' Control Over Nature (Luke 8:25)
“And he said unto them, Where is your faith? And they were afraid, and marveled, saying one to another, Who then is this, that he commandeth even the winds and the water, and they obey him?” (Luke 8:25). Jesus’ mastery over the elements left His disciples in awe, prompting the crucial question: “Who is this?” He is the Son of God, the Lord of all creation.
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Conclusion
Let us not merely marvel at Jesus, but let us embrace Him as our Lord and Savior. Let His amazing power and wisdom transform our lives, and lead us into His eternal kingdom. Amen.