Matthew 16 - Part I: The Demand for a Sign (NIV)

Summary:

The Demand for a Sign
Verses 1-4

The Pharisees and Sadducees tested Jesus by asking for a sign from heaven.  Jesus said that they could interpret the appearance of the sky for the weather, but could not interpret the signs of the times.  Only wicked and adulterous people look for a miraculous sign, but none will be given to them, except for the sign of Jonah.  Jesus then went away.

The Yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees
Verses 5-12

The disciples forgot bread when they crossed the lake.  Jesus warned them to be on their guard for the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees.  The disciples thought He said so because they had forgotten the bread.  Jesus heard their discussion and said that they had little faith and understanding.  He reminded them of the 5 loaves for the 5,000; the 7 loaves for the 4,000; and their leftovers.  He was not talking about bread.  Then, He repeated for them to be aware of the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees.  The disciples then understood that He was speaking of their teachings.

Lori's Thoughts:

Although they asked for a sign, the Pharisees and Sadducees did not want to see one.  They wanted to find holes in Jesus' gospel and errors in His ways.  You will find what you look for.  The crowds looked for a Savior.  They knew they were helpless and dying without God.  They didn't have to ask for a sign. Some of them knew that Jesus was the Messiah.  This is how God speaks to us.  Amidst the noise and the doubt, He speaks and we just know.  Learn to recognize His voice.

What is the sign of Jonah?  Jesus said that as Jonah was in the belly of a large fish, for 3 days, so would the Son of Man be in the heart of the earth for 3 days.  (See Matthew 12)  Jesus became human to die for us and fulfill the Old Testament covenant, which none of us could fulfill.  "...for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God."  (Romans 3:23)

The disciples had focused on earthly things.  They had had bread when Jesus multiplied it for the crowds.  They assumed that the bread was the key.  Not so.  Jesus is the key.  He created bread and all things.  Of course, He could have manifested food if He so desired.

When Jesus spoke of yeast, He warned us to look out for the legalistic teachings of religious leaders.  Anyone that does not teach that Jesus is the Son of God, or that we need Him, does not know God or understand the plan of salvation.  Do not depend on humans for a spiritual relationship with your Lord and Savior.

Listen to your heart.  The Holy Spirit knocks upon it, gently, and speaks to you when you answer.