365 Ways to Know God by Elmer Towns September 13

365 Ways to Know God by Elmer Towns

(Devotional Readings on the Names of God)

September 13

JESUS: A PROPHET WITHOUT HONOR

So they were offended at Him. But Jesus said to them, "A prophet is not without

honor except in his own, country and in his own house."

MATTHEW 13:57

When Jesus returned to His hometown, the people did not receive Him; He was the Prophet Without Honor. The people of Nazareth knew Him as a boy growing up among them. As a young carpenter, Jesus worked among them. But when Jesus first returned and announced that He was fulfilling Scripture (see Luke 4:21), they rejected Him and "were filled with wrath" (v. 28). They ran Jesus out of town, and some tried to throw Him off a cliff (see v. 29). As a result, Jesus said, "A prophet is honored everywhere except in his own hometown and among his own family" (Matthew 13:57, NLT).

Jesus, I accept You, no matter who won't recognize You. I honor You,

even though many reject You. You are my Lord and Savior.

How could those closest to the child Jesus end up rejecting Him? Some were spiritually blinded because of unbelief; they couldn't see the Child who didn't sin. Some were spiritually prejudiced; they were looking for a political Messiah to deliver them. Some were sinfully blinded; they looked at everything through their sinful lusts. As a result, "He did not do many mighty works there because of their unbelief" (Matthew 13:58).

Lord Jesus, I know You as my Savior from sin; come into my life. I

know You as my Guide and Protector; come lead me today. I know You

as my Friend and Helper; come dwell in my heart. I know You as my

coming King; come, Lord Jesus, in power and glory. Amen.

Reading: Matthew 13:54-58; Luke 4:16-30

Key Thought: You must honor Jesus even when some will not.