Tuesday, 17th of July 2018

Matthew 11:20-24

Jesus began to denounce the cities in which He had performed most of his miracles, because the people there did not change their ways, «Alas for you Chorazin and Bethsaida! If the miracles worked in you had taken place in Tyre and Sidon, the people there would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. But I assure you, for Tyre and Sidon it will be more bearable on the day of judgment than for you. And you, Capernaum, will you be lifted up to heaven? You will be thrown down to the place of the dead! For if the miracles which were performed in you had taken place in Sodom, it would still be there today! But I tell you, it will be more bearable for Sodom on the day of judgment than for you».

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/

Analysis

Today's passage is quite the harsh and strict passage, similar to yesterday's passage. Though today's passage is shorter is more of a scold rather than a warning. Jesus was upset at the cities where He performed most of His miracles, that is the cities of Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum, because they did not change their ways. He then compared them to the cities of Tyre, Sidon, and Sodom, which Jesus claimed would've repented and changed their ways if the miracles were performed there. Jesus also said that those cities would fare better in the day of judgement than for the miracle cities.

This passage is quite the proof of Jesus' humanity, showing He can get disappointed and upset as well. That is natural, after all, who wouldn't be mad if their efforts did not bear fruit? The three miracle cities didn't change their ways even after Jesus performed miracles, why do you think is that? In my opinion, that happened because the people there are already too blind to see the truth. They are so busy and distracted with their materialist desires and needs that even if the bare truth is held in front of their eyes, they won't care. So why does the people of Sodom, Tyre, and Sidon would repent? Because these cities are known for their absolute depravities, and the people there are in despair, seeking for hope and light. As such, when such light is exposed, they would surely be more willing to accept the truth and repent. Regardless, that is all I have to say for now, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.