Matthew in Rhyme, Chapters 3-4

Text amd image by Rick McVicar

Chapter 3 v. 1 John the Baptist Began his immersing habit To prepare the way, Often stopping to pray. 

John wore clothes of camel’s hair, Causing all kinds of people to stare. In the wilderness John would present All the reasons why people must repent. 

He called out the Pharisees For their blatant hypocrisy. John’s baptism is only of water. A more powerful baptism will be hotter, 

Brought by someone with power Who will usher in the final hour. 

Click on image to go to website of First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Mansfield, Ohio.

v. 13 Jesus left Galilee to seek out John. Was it so his sin could be gone? John asked Jesus, “Why be baptized?” Jesus answered, “Let’s not rationalize.” 

In Jordan River, Jesus was immersed. He had no reason to rehearse. Time for the Holy Spirit to say, God is here to stay

After flying like a dove, “This is my Son, With whom I am well pleased,” After Jesus left Galilee (RSV, v. 17).

Chapter 4 v. 1 Jesus then hid out with the devil. After fasting, Jesus’ head was not level. Devil said, “I will turn stones into bread Just by the words Jesus said.” 

Jesus: “‘One does not live by bread alone (NRSV, v. 4a).’ The devil will never own my soul.” Then the devil took Jesus up above, Telling Jesus, “You can fly like a dove.” 

Jesus told the devil, “Give it a rest. I will not put God to the test.” The devil said, “You can rule over kings If you will kiss my ring.” 

Jesus: “I worship only the one true God, Who gives the devil the rod.” The devil then soon left. Jesus had shown he was the best. 

v. 12 John the Baptist was arrested. Jesus’ anger became festered. Jesus settled next to the Sea of Galilee To begin healing and to preach, 

Advocating to restrain and repent Away from the shadow of death, “For the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” (RSV) Jesus then walked on coastal sand. 

v. 18 Jesus told two fishermen to “follow me” (RSV, v. 19). Peter and Andrew started a team. Before they were gone, They added James and John. 

They were the sons of father Zebedee, Who they would abruptly leave, To journey through the region of Galilee, Performing miracles and curing disease