Jesus’ ministry at home

“And they were offended in him. But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country, and in his own house. And he did not many mighty works there because of their unbelief.” - Matthew 13v57-58

I really enjoy the human side of the Scriptures. I like the fact that God lets us see the human side of what He is doing. It seems to make the Bible more “real” somehow.

Here Jesus returns home to minister. One would think that there would be a grand homecoming, with bands and banners and plenty of speeches about the home town boy made good.

This however was not the case with Jesus. When He came home the people responded with dismay. “How can this be a great prophet? We all know Him. He is the carpenter’s son. We have furniture in our homes that He made. His mom is here as well as His brothers and sisters.” They just couldn’t accept that He was anyone special.

Jesus made the point that prophets rarely are given any honour in their own homes. It may almost be a case of “familiarity breeds contempt.” As a result of their unbelief Jesus did not do many great works among them. When it comes right down to it, people have to respond – it is up to them.

Lets not be surprised when people don’t believe – they did not even believe when Jesus was among them.