Matthew, 4
17. From that time on, Jesus began to preach and say, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."
17. From that time on, Jesus began to preach and say, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."
St. Matthew 4 reports Jesus' temptation in the desert after his baptism. In this chapter, Jesus is tempted three times by the devil, but resists and strengthens to begin his ministry in Galilee. Moreover, the chapter also highlights the importance of the Holy Scriptures and how Jesus began to gather his first disciples.
James 4:7: "Therefore, subject to God, resist the devil, and he will run away from you." This verse highlights the importance of resisting the devil's temptations, just as Jesus did in the desert.
2 Timothy 3:16-17: "Every scripture is divinely inspired and profitable to teach, rebuke, to correct, to instruct in righteousness; so that the man of God may be perfect, and perfectly prepared for every good work." Just as Jesus used Scripture to resist temptations, this verse emphasizes the importance of Scripture for spiritual growth.
Matthew 10:38: "And who does not take his cross, and does not follow after me, is not worthy of me." This verse highlights the importance of renunciation and sacrifice in the Christian life, a theme that is also addressed in Jesus' temptation.
Luke 5:10: "And Jesus said to Simon, Do not fear; from now on you will be fisherman of men." Just as Jesus called his first disciples to follow him, this verse highlights how Jesus still calls people to become disciples and work for the Kingdom of God.
Acts of the Apostles 10:38: "As God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power; which he has been doing good, and healing to all the oppressed of the devil, because God was with him." This verse highlights how Jesus began his ministry doing good and healing the oppressed, just as He still continues to do through the Holy Spirit acting in the lives of Christians.
“Esforce-se, mesmo se for um pouco, mas sempre…” São Padre Pio de Pietrelcina
