Matthew Quotes

“We can learn much by valuing the contributions of children and seeing their spiritual growth and development not only in terms of their future development but also in what they can also contribute now. Often, children endorse attitudes and insights that we lose as we grow in discipleship.”
― Michael J. Wilkins, The NIV Application Commentary: Matthew

“Before hardness of heart sets in from experiencing the hurts of this life, vulnerable children can learn to trust the message of hope and salvation that is found in the gospel.”
― Michael J. Wilkins, The NIV Application Commentary: Matthew

“Scripture is not only timely but timeless. Just as God spoke to the original audience, so he still speaks to us through the pages of Scripture. Because we share a common humanity with the people of the Bible, we discover a universal dimension in the problems they faced and the solutions God gave them. The timeless nature of Scripture enables it to speak with power in every time and in every culture.”
― Michael J. Wilkins, The NIV Application Commentary: Matthew

“The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak” (). This famous saying is clear in its meaning. The disciples want to obey Jesus and do what is right in the depths of their spirit, but their external flesh lacks the strength (note the “not strong”/“weak” development from v. 40 to v. 41). This and John 6:63 are the only instances of spirit vs. flesh dichotomy in the gospels, but it is developed further in Paul, who uses “spirit” () for the Holy Spirit in Rom 8, thereby contrasting life in the Spirit with life in one’s own strength.”
― Clinton E. Arnold, Matthew

“Jesus’ deep personal desire is for God to take away the necessity of this vicarious sacrifice. However, his greater desire is to see God’s will accomplished, and this is where Jesus’ victory over himself occurs.22”
― Clinton E. Arnold, Matthew