Jesus constantly faced opponents looking to catch him in a contradiction or inconsistency. One day after a bout with one group another gang showed up. When the Pharisees heard that he silenced the Sadducees with his reply, they met together to question him again. One of them, an expert in religious law, tried to trap him with this question: “Teacher, which is the most important commandment in the law of Moses?

Jesus replied, You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind. Then he added, A second is equally important: Love your neighbor as yourself.

Jesus quieted this fresh group of skeptics by answering a question designed to frustrate him. Constantly probed and goaded, Jesus extended his wisdom not only to his followers, but to those out to do him harm.

Jesus put up with a lot of grief. He answered trick questions about taxes and marriage and the Scriptures, doing so with calmness and good humor. Today while many mock Jesus and ignore his teachings, Jesus remains patient. He wants none to perish, but all to turn to him.

Patience is a virtue, and Jesus exemplifies it at its best.

Matthew 22 in Through the Bible in 2024

Photo by Clément Falize