FORGET WHAT YOU KNOW
 “Is this not the carpenter’s son? Is not His mother called
Mary? And His brothers, James, Joses, Simon, and Judas?
Matthew 13:55
 
Scripture Focus:  Matthew 14:54-58
 
We are normally very confident about what we know, but there are times when we need to consider other factors than what we know.
 
It is humbling to become aware that things are not working or causing a problem.  Proud people refuse to adjust to new information.  Can you remember when you accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior.  Spiritual growth is a slow process.  Growth is only possible when we are willing to learn and look at new information.
 
The residents of Nazareth were unable to see Jesus clearly because of what they knew.  Jesus came into his own hometown to be a blessing to his people.  He taught in the synagogue and they were aware of the wisdom in which he taught.  In fact, they were astonished at both His teaching and His mighty works.
 
Instead of looking at Jesus afresh, in light of the wisdom and deeds he accomplished, they chose to hold on to what they knew about him.  How often do we do this?  When a new believer begins to exercise his/her gifts, many refuse to accept that God has His hand on this life. The older believers remember all the deeds and actions of the past, with little or no consideration of recognizing God’s hand.
 
There is a problem with holding on to only what we know.
  • Jesus came to his own country to share His wisdom and performed works.
  • The people were astonished by Jesus’ wisdom and His work.
  • They remembered His father was a carpenter and his mother Mary. They knew His brothers and sisters. What they did not know was He was their Savior.
  • They refused to see God at work and would not receive Jesus Christ.
  • Because of their unbelief, Jesus was unable to do mighty works.
 
What can we learn about this problem?
  • There must be a willingness to acknowledge the wisdom and good deeds of new believers who have not demonstrated them before.
  • Our unbelief in the work of the Lord and the individuals He desires to share with us could keep God from accomplishing His will in the lives of people.
 
DETERMINE TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE WORK OF THE LORD.
BE ALERT, ALWAYS LEARNING MORE ABOUT JESUS.