Day 244 - Matthew 16–18 Psalm 50

Why did Jesus teach with parables? Jesus taught with parables because everyday stories can carry eternal truths. A parable uses familiar images like seeds or sheep to invite people to think and discover meaning for themselves. Its power is that it stays in the heart, slowly opening the mind to God’s kingdom in a way plain words cannot. In Matthew 16, the leaders asked Jesus for a sign, but He told them they could not see what was already before them. Peter declared that Jesus was the Christ, and Jesus taught that following Him meant denying self and carrying the cross. Faith is not about chasing miracles but about recognizing Him and choosing a life of sacrifice. In Matthew 17, on the mountain, Jesus was transfigured, and the disciples fell in fear until He calmed them. Later He healed a boy when the disciples could not, teaching that even faith as small as a mustard seed has power. In Matthew 18, the disciples argued about greatness, but Jesus taught that the greatest are humble like children. He warned against harming little ones and told of the shepherd seeking the lost sheep. He taught His followers to forgive without limit. In God’s kingdom real greatness is humility, and real love keeps searching and forgiving. Psalm 50, God spoke as judge, reminding His people that He does not need sacrifices because He owns everything.