Reformation Sunday (GA)

Matthew 11:12-19
12 From the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven has suffered violence, and the violent take it by force. 13 For all the Prophets and the Law prophesied until John, 14 and if you are willing to accept it, he is Elijah who is to come. 15 He who has ears to hear, let him hear.
16 “But to what shall I compare this generation? It is like children sitting in the marketplaces and calling to their playmates,
17 “ ‘We played the flute for you, and you did not dance;
we sang a dirge, and you did not mourn.’
18 For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, ‘He has a demon.’ 19 The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Look at him! A glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ Yet wisdom is justified by her deeds.”
The Holy Bible : English standard version. 2001 (Mt 11:12-19). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

Jesus compares his ministry with John the Baptist ministry. I think many pastors over the years have compared their ministry with others, but these seem to be complete opposites. Jesus comes drink and eating but the people reject him for his actions. John the Baptist did the exact opposite and the pharisees said he had a demon. Which is correct?

John the Baptist had a Spirit of Great power putting words in his mouth to prepare the way for the Son of Man. The Son of Man has the road prepared for him and becomes a friend of sinners so he can release them from their sins. But first you have to be reminded you are sinners. You are the idle people. You are the ones who seek after the wind. You are the one who seeks to fill your belly but can not find sleep.

God has sent many ministers into the world to point us to the redemption of our sins. Some had ministries that clashed with the leaders of their day. Some of them affirmed the truth of God in the midst of Lost people. But who would you compare yourself to? Do you listen to the Law and prophets proclaiming the good news to you? Do you proclaim that good news to others?

The Kingdom continues to suffer violence as it goes forth. It does not matter how hard we try to accommodate the people of this world. The truth must be spoken. The Truth here is do you have ears to hear or not. Jesus and John both call people to repent and believe but what did you hear. Jesus died and rose so people could see new Life but what did you hear. Hear the word of God in your heart and mind: Jesus Christ died for your sins and claimed you to be his own.