The Conflicted Kingdom (Luke 9:1-17)

Jesus sends out the twelve disciples, giving them power to heal and cast out demons. He tells them to preach about God’s kingdom and rely on the hospitality of those who welcome them. If they’re rejected, they should leave and show that the town is excluded from the kingdom by wiping their feet.

Luke then mentions that John the Baptist has been killed by Herod, which seems like a major setback for God's kingdom. This raises doubts about whether the Lord can truly establish His rule.

Later, in a remote area, the disciples find themselves without enough food, even for their small group of thirteen. But despite the huge crowd of over 5,000, Jesus miraculously feeds everyone with just five loaves and two fish. This shows that God's kingdom is not limited by our obstacles or lack of resources. The Lord's power and provision ensure that His kingdom will prevail.

Blessing the Nations (Matthew 15:29-39)

Christ feeds his people as they come out to receive his teaching.  This is literally accomplished when Christ feeds the 5000 people.  Christ primarily feeds Israel .  Christ clearly communicates through this feeding that we will be satisfied in the Lord.  Why does the Lord perform this feeding a second time? Is Christ affirming that the first feeding was insufficient?  Why feed two crowds? 

Filled in God’s Mercy Feast (Matthew 14:13-21)

Our Lord creates within us a survival instinct that we call fight of flight. This is triggered when something stressful threatens our life or our well being. Matthew assures us that Christ has come to save us from our sins which implies that Christ is undertaking a difficult mission, but he is going to be successful. So, why does Christ run away from Herod when he hears the news of John’s death? Is Christ a coward or are we being short sighted in our discerning Christ’s mission?

Purposely Defiled by Sinners? (Mark 8:1-21)

You would think that Christ would figure out that if he just worked with the leaders of Israel a little bit then His life would be easier.  So, why does Christ purposely dine with unclean people after having been rebuked?  Why not just give a little sign when he is asked for a sign?  Why such a harsh warning for His disciples?

Everlasting Nourishment (Mark 6:30-44)

We might wonder from time to time why Jesus does all these miracles and theatrics.  Why not just tell us the point?  Why not just live, die, and be raised?  Why these miracles for a time?  What is the purpose behind these miracles?  Why does Jesus feed 5000 people with 5 loaves and two fish?