Now some were constantly watching for an opportunity to accuse Jesus (2,6). Jesus was not intimidated by their hostility and went on with his messianic ministry. He healed a man with a shriveled hand on the Sabbath under the watch of the accusers. Jesus revealed the heart of God, doing what is good and saving people on the Sabbath (4). The leaders needed to understand God gave the law with a good intention to save sinners.

While the religious leaders tried to discredit Jesus' work, people followed him as a large crowd (8). Despite the hindrance, Jesus revealed the glory of God through his ministry so that anyone would see who he was (11).

Away from all distractions, Jesus went up to a mountain and called twelve men from among his followers (13). They were to stay with Jesus and learn from him and go out to preach the gospel with spiritual authority (14,15). Jesus' time on earth was limited (2:20), but the work of God's ministry would continue through his disciples as they preached the gospel to the whole world.


Application: Father, thank you for sending Jesus, who is our Messiah. Help us to come to know you better every day as we follow Jesus and do your will.
One Word: Jesus came to save lives