I have already told you that you have fallen for the second lie that man is Autonomous a law and ruler unto himself.. sATAN fell because of pride - shall we join him.. you go first !
Ge 3:5 For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.
Mark for just a brief moment can you imagine being a simple fisher man a tad proud because you are young and strong and idealistic.. none the less not without moral conviction and just a cut above the rest.
Now this Jesus fellow shows and you say "hey What the heck" I will see where this may go.... but you make a small mistake and begin to love him.
one day some of those who seem to hate Him in a rather rude and unreasonable way ask you:
Doth not YOUR Master pay Tribute and have any respect at all.
Matthew 7:24 And when they were come to Capernaum, they that received tribute money came to Peter, and said, Doth not your master pay tribute?
You are on the spot - you give the only answer that will appease them. "YES of course"
25 He saith, Yes.( Jesus knew what had happened to Peter under the pressure ) And when he was come into the house, Jesus prevented him, saying, What thinkest thou, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? of their own children, or of strangers?
26 Peter saith unto him, Of strangers. Jesus saith unto him, Then are the children free.
Jesus has declared freedom from the will and kingdom of men !
Now , if you can , imagine that this Jesus, the son of the living God bothers to take the time to say to Mark.. I want you to go fishing... {You like fishing.} and the very first fish you catch ..look into it's mouth.. take out the solid gold coin ..and appease these detractors.
We need not offend them for nought !
Mt 17:27 Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee.
Does God then care for those who ask for tribute or for sons.
Who hath the greatest reward ?
Why does God do these kinds of things with those whom He loves:
God is FUN
God is LOVE.
I pray God love you Mark .. from the bottom of my Heart ! |
