A story can be told in more than one way. Two witnesses may see events in a significantly different way.

I think sometimes preachers, commentators, and theologians give in too easily to the temptation to get behind the story of Jesus rather than reading it for what it is . The way the story is told cues us to the meaning the gospel writers saw in the story. It is story-telling that we encounter in the Gospels, not some kind of scientific history writing. The story has a point. That’s why the gospel writers tell it.

In addition, people often too quickly attempt to harmonize and explain. And, I think the temptation is strong in this passage. (more…)

Tags: Adam Clarke | disciples | discipleship | evangelism | Gospel of Matthew | John Wesley | repentance