Sermon Notes For 2026

Please see "Archived Wednesday Sermon Notes" for previous topics - Thank you!

Sermon Notes For 1-7-26 Part 1 For The Gospel Of Matthew Chapter 6: Vs. 25 Thru 34, For This Will Be (The 5th Out Of 5) Corrective Topics From Our Lord Jesus Which Will Be Life-Changing, (But) It Will Also Reveal How Superficial Or Serious Our Commitment To Obey The Lord Jesus The Messiah King Really Is!

Please have some paper, or your Wednesday Noon Bible Study notebook, and a pen or pencil

Now, let’s turn to The Gospel of Matthew Chapter 6.

Now, let’s continue with The Gospel of Matthew Chapter 6: verses 25 thru 34 and this will be our 5th Corrective Topic that our Lord Jesus Addresses which is a deep-seated problem that existed then, and it still exists now! And what would that be? “The Fear Within Us Of Not Having Enough!”

Now, this fear within us of not having enough will manifest itself in our lives in either 2 different extreme actions or reactions.

The first extreme actions or reactions can manifest itself in our lives if it isn’t dealt with according to the Scriptures.

Then it can lead us into a lifetime of greediness or selfishness in which our Lord Jesus revealed such concerns in Matthew 6:19 thru 24.

On the other hand, the second extreme actions or reactions can also manifest itself in our lives if it isn’t dealt with according to the Scriptures.

This can lead us into a lifetime of insecurities about our daily survival living in an uncertain world, in which our Lord Jesus revealed such concerns in Matthew 6:25 thru 34.

So today, with God’s help, we want to begin to closely examine our Lord’s instructions and guidance given here in Matthew 6:25 thru 34, that can change our thinking and our attitudes, so that we are-not so easily defeated by the fears and the insecurities about our daily survival living in an uncertain world! Show you what I mean!

Now, notice Matthew Chapter 6. 25 Therefore, I say unto you, take no thought or do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? 26 For example, Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap, or plant or harvest, nor gather into barns. And yet, your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more valuable than they? 27 And which of you taking thought or worrying can add one cubit to their stature or height? (Note) In Biblical times one cubic was typically between 17.5 and 21 inches. This was based upon the distance from a person’s elbow to the tip of their middle finger. 28 So why do you take thought or worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field how they grow. But they neither toil nor spin. 29 And yet, I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory or splendor was not arrayed like one of these lilies of the field. 30 Now if God so clothes the grass or flowers of the field which today is and tomorrow is thrown into an outdoor oven for kindling.Will He, your Heavenly Father mentioned vs 32. Will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?31 Therefore, take no thought or do not worry, saying, What shall we eat? Or what shall we drink? Or what shall we wear? 32 For after all these things the Gentiles seek after. For your heavenly Father knows that you need of all these things. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. 34 Therefore, take no thought or do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will take thought or worry about it’s own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble. (Stop here)

So then, our Lord Jesus clearly addresses the deep-seated problem that existed then, and it still exists now, the fear within us of not having enough!

(Question) What are there, different kinds of worries that You and I may struggle with from time to time? (Repeat) Because, “Worry” isn’t just one thing it shows up in different forms, some more subtle than others.

Now, here are 8 different kinds of worries that You and I may struggle with from time to time. 1. Daily Needs Worry! Concern about basic necessities of life. Food, water clothing, shelter, healthcare, transportation, employment, retirement income, safety and protection. This kind of worry assumes that God may not provide what is truly needed so I better have another plan! 2. Worrying about the Future! Worrying or overly anxious about what might happen in the days ahead? What if things go wrong?” The worrying over a loss or a death, uncertainty “Do not worry about tomorrow…” — Matthew 6:34 Listen, This kind of worrying pulls our hearts out of the present and imagines a future without God’s care and help. Worrying about the future! 3. Control-Based Worry! *The fear of not being in charge. *Worrying that comes from wanting certainty and control. *The need we have to manage every outcomes in order that it might be favorable and positive. 4. Worrying about Providing for Others! Children, parents, grandparents, siblings friends, or those we feel responsible for. Listen, This worry feels loving, but when it becomes consuming, it replaces trust with fear. 5. Performance or needing Approval Worry! Fear of failure or being rejection.
• “Am I good enough?” • “What will others think?” This worry ties identity to human approval instead of God’s acceptance. 6. Moral or Spiritual Worry Fear of not being pleasing unto God! • “Am I doing enough?” • “What if I fail God?” This can be healthy conviction, but unhealthy worry turns grace into fear and forgets God’s mercy. 7. Guilt-Based Worry! Anxiety over past mistakes •Replaying sins, regrets, or failures •Fear that the past defines the future Psalm 103:12 — God removes transgressions “as far as the east is from the west” This worry doubts forgiveness and restoration. 8. Comparative Worry Measuring life against others • “Why do they have more?” • “Am I falling behind?” This kind of worry breeds envy and steals contentment.

Now, let’s notice again Matthew Chapter 6. 25 Therefore, I say unto you, take no thought or do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? (Stop here)

Now again, notice Matthew Chapter 6:25. Therefore, I say unto you, Take no thought or do not worry, (Stop here)

First and foremost, our Lord Jesus is not criticizing nor condemning the normal concerns or occasional anxieties that can occur depending upon a circumstance or a situation at occurs from time to time.

Nor is our Lord Jesus saying: Don’t have a plan. Don’t seek a solution.

Actually, the real problem is an anxious preoccupation, instead of prayerful and thoughtful preparation.

Perhaps, A deeper issue is at the core of this kind of worry that our Lord Jesus is talking about and that is, “Who really controls our lives?”

Because when our Heavenly Father is trusted then worry will loses its authority and power in our lives!

But here in vs. 25, 28, 31 & 34, our Lord’s admonishment unto us when He says; “Take no thought,” Or “don’t worry” is from A Greek word Merimnáō, which can mean: *To be pulled apart or divided in one’s mind. *Or, to be distracted in the mind or to be totally worrisome.

So then, “worry” is not simply thinking about a particular circumstance or the situation at the time.

Instead, this kind of “worry” that our Lord Jesus is talking about distracts the mind making one totally worrisome and consumed about a matter or matters. And why is this kind of worry so wrong? Because of what it does to us spiritually.

In fact, our Lord Jesus ties this kind of worrying directly to a lack of trust when it comes to God. *For example, this kind of worrying assumes God may not be faithful! *This kind of worrying quietly says to our minds “Not sure God will provide this time.” And therefore, it shifts dependence from God-to oneself! *This kind of worrying: •Adds nothing. •Solves nothing. •Changes nothing. But instead, it drains your peace and your joy!

Now, let’s see Luke 10: 38 Now, it happened as they went that He entered a certain village; and a certain woman named Martha welcomed Him into her house. 39 And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at Jesus' feet and heard His word. 40 But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she approached Him and said, Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Therefore, tell her to help me. 41 And Jesus answered and said to her, Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. 42 But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her."

Sermon Notes For 1-14-26 Part 2 For The Gospel Of Matthew Chapter 6: Vs. 25 Thru 34, For This Will Be (The 5th Out Of 5) Corrective Topics From Our Lord Jesus Which Will Be Life-Changing, (But) It Will Also Reveal How Superficial Or Serious Our Commitment To Obey The Lord Jesus The Messiah King Really Is!

Please have some paper, or your Wednesday noon bible study notebook, and a pen or pencil.

Now, let’s turn to The Gospel of Matthew Chapter 6. And let’s continue with The Gospel of Matthew Chapter 6: verses 25 thru 34 and this will be our 5th Corrective Topic that our Lord Jesus addresses which is a deep-seated problem that existed then, and it still exists now! And what would that be? “The Fear Within Us Of Not Having Enough!”

Now, notice Matthew Chapter 6:25. Therefore, I say unto you, take no thought or do not worry about your life. What you will eat or, what you will drink, nor about your body what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? (Stop here)

Now, throughout certain times in history and in certain parts of the world even within the United States, the fear of not having enough was and is a reality! •Due to wars or a foreign government take over. Or due to a conflict or a civil disorder uprising, or a foreign or domestic terrorist attack.

Now, throughout certain times in history and in certain parts of the world even within the United States, the fear of not having enough was and is a reality! •Sometimes it was due to a local or regional famine or water shortages. •Sometimes it was due to a local or regional natural disaster. •Sometimes it was due to a local or regional job shortage, or a layoff, or stores or businesses, going out of business. •Sometimes it was due to a Local or regional Inflation the prices for things continues to go up in cost or sometimes it was due to a major collapse of their economy or their currency.

So again, now throughout certain times in history and in certain parts of the world even within the United States, the fear of not having enough was and is a reality!

Listen, as God’s people if we don’t deal with our feelings, our attitudes our thinking about such matters according to the scriptures.

Then it’s inevitable we will experience a life time of insecurities about our daily survival because we are living in an uncertain world.

Fortunately, our Lord Jesus who also lived at a certain time in history and in a certain part of the world, the concern of daily survival because of living in an uncertain world.

Therefore, our Lord graciously revealed unto us a better way to overcome this deep seated problem that existed then, and it still exists now, “The Fear Of Not Having Enough!”

Now, notice Matthew Chapter 6:25. Therefore, I say unto you, take no thought or, do not worry, (Stop here)
The words, “Take no thought,” or “do not worry” are from a Greek word Merimnáō, which can mean: *To be pulled apart or divided in one’s mind. *Or, to be distracted in the mind or to be totally worrisome.

So then, “worry” is not simply thinking about a particular circumstance or the situation at the time. Instead, this kind of “worry” that our Lord Jesus is talking about distracts the mind making one totally worrisome and consumed about a matter or matters.

And why is this kind of worry so wrong? Because of what it does to us spiritually.

*This kind of worrying: •Adds nothing. •Solves nothing. •Changes nothing. But instead, it drains your peace and your joy! So then, here are a couple things to consider when struggling with worry.

First, everything in our life is subject to change, and therefore, we must be willing to accept such changes because change is inevitable within this life! And secondly, your will being done must be secondary to the will of The Lord being done!

If we think about it, worry is a conversation you have with yourself influenced by the devil about things you cannot really change although he makes you think you can!

On the other hand, prayer unto God is a conversation you have with God about things that He can change if it is according to His will, plan, and purpose to do so!

And by the way, is there a difference between “worry” and “being “concern,” and if so, what’s the difference? Actually, there is an important difference between “worry” and “concern,” especially in everyday use and in the way the Scripture often treats this area.

1. Concern: thoughtful care that leads to action. Concern can mean, responsible awareness or care about something that matters. •It involves thinking clearly. •It often leads to wise constructive action. •But it will never dominate our hearts with worry and anxiety. Example, You’re concerned about your health, so you eat better and exercise regularly.

Also, the apostle Paul used the word concern when one of his companion was sent to help out. “I have no one else like Timothy or Timotheus, who will show genuine concern for your welfare.” (Philippians 2:20) In this case, “Concern” was an expression of love, stewardship, and responsibility we are to have our others.

But “Worry” goes beyond a thoughtful “Concern” instead it becomes anxious, fearful, and worrisome. •It fixates on what might go wrong. •It drains your peace and your joy. •It assumes that the burden of a matter belongs entirely upon you!

Example, You lie awake at night replaying the worst-case scenarios, even though you can’t control the outcome. Worry actually can fracture trust in God by acting as though everything depends upon you only! Listen, the Bible does not condemn being “concern,” but it consistently warns against “worry.”

Here is a simple test to tell them apart when it comes to “concern” or “worry.” Ask yourself: •Does a particular thought move you toward prayer, planning, and God’s peace? •Or Does a particular thought controls me with fear, sleeplessness, or loss of trust in God?

Acknowledge the concern don’t deny it. Ask is this matter driving me to God or is it trying replacing Him? “Concern” should bring us to God. While “Worry” will pull us away from resting in Him.

(Question) Did Our Lord Jesus became worried at Gethsemane. (Matthew 26:36–46) “Then Jesus came with them to a place called Gethsemane…He began to be sorrowful and deeply distressed.” (v. 36–37)

The words here are very strong: •“Sorrowful” = weighed down with grief •“Deeply distressed” = overwhelmed, pressed from all sides

Jesus was not calm in the human sense. Jesus experienced: •Emotional anguish •Mental pressure •Physical stress (His sweat became like drops of blood – Luke 22:44) Yet He did not sin.

The difference between Our Lord Jesus’ anguish and worry. What worry does: •Turns inward •Tries to control the future •Separates us from trust

What Jesus did: •Turned outward to the Father •Surrendered control •Anchored Himself in obedience “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.” (Matt. 26:39) That sentence is the death of worry.

JESUS MODELED THE CORRECT RESPONSE TO DISTRESS 1.He prayed honestly. •He did not suppress fear. •He named it. 2. He submitted the outcome.•He did not demand escape. •He surrendered control. 3. He stayed obedient•He got up and went forward. Worry says: “I can’t go on unless this changes.” Jesus said: “I will go on even if it doesn’t.”

Worry is wrong when it: •Replaces prayer with panic. •Replaces trust with control. •Replaces obedience with paralysis. Distress becomes sin only when it refuses surrender.

We should ask ourselves, “Is this driving me to pray and obey… or driving me to spiral and control?” That question reveals everything.

A SHORT DAILY PRAYER AGAINST WORRY. Heavenly Father, You already know what I need before I ask. I give You this worry that has been weighing on my mind. I release what I cannot control and trust You for the outcome. Help me walk in obedience today and leave tomorrow in Your hands. I receive Your peace through Jesus Christ. Amen.”

This prayer does three things: •Names the burden •Releases control •Receives peace

Also, in Matthew 6:25C. Jesus asked a very important question that could be easily overlook or misunderstood. “Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?” (Stop here) This question goes to the heart of His teaching about worry and trust in God. Jesus is redefining what “life” really is.

Food and clothing are necessary, but they are not the essence of life. •Life is not merely surviving. •The body is not merely something to be maintained or decorated.

Jesus is saying: If life were only about food, and the body only about clothes, then worry would make sense. But life is far richer and deeper than that. God gives life first — therefore, He can provide what sustains it. This is a logic of trust: •God gave you life (something far greater). •God formed your body (something far more complex).

So, Jesus is implying: If God has already done the greater thing, will He fail to do the lesser? This echoes Romans 8:32: “He who did not spare His own Son… how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?”

Jesus is challenging misplaced focus. Worry reverses priorities: •It treats food and clothing as ultimate. •It treats life and God’s purpose as secondary.

Jesus is saying: Don’t let survival concerns eclipse your calling, your relationship with God, and your spiritual life.

Life has purpose beyond material needs. In the larger context (Matthew 6:19-34), Jesus contrasts: •Earthly treasure vs heavenly treasure •Anxious striving vs trusting dependence So, this statement means: •Life is meant for knowing God •Living out His will •Reflecting His kingdom Food and clothing serve life — life does not serve food and clothing.

Jesus might be saying it this way today: “Is your life really just about paying bills and keeping yourself fed? Isn’t it about something far greater than that?”

Jesus is not dismissing physical needs. He is teaching freedom from anxiety by restoring proper perspective •God is the giver of life •Life has divine meaning •Trust replaces worry when God is put first (Matthew 6:33)

The Birds of the Air (Matthew 6:26) “Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?”

What Jesus is not saying •He is not saying: “Do nothing.” •Birds work hard—they search, fly, gather. What He is saying •Birds do not live anxiously about the future. •They do not hoard or obsess over tomorrow.

Jesus’ point: Provision flows from the Father, not from anxiety. If God sustains creatures with no spiritual awareness, how much more will He care for humans made in His image?

This ties back to verse 25: •If God sustains life itself (birds), •He can sustain your needs.

The Lilies of the Field (Matthew 6:28–30)“Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin…” Why lilies? Lilies were: •Temporary (wildflowers burned as fuel) •Beautiful yet short-lived Yet, Jesus says: “Even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.”

The meaning •God clothes what will soon fade •With beauty far beyond human effort So, Jesus asks: “Will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?” The issue isn’t clothing — it’s faith vs anxiety.

Paul’s expansion of Jesus’ teaching. In Philippians 4:6–7. “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

Paul uses the same Greek idea for anxiety that Jesus did. He shows us what to do instead of worrying. The Bible never just says “stop” — it says replace. Worry fills the mind; prayer redirects it.

Worry God’s Replacement Anxiety Prayer Fear Trust Mental spiraling Thanksgiving Loss of peace God’s guarding peace

So then, how does Biblical peace differs from the world’s idea of peace?

Jesus said: “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you.” (John 14:27) Worldly peace = absence of problems. But Biblical peace = presence of God in the problem!

That’s why Paul says God’s peace will guard your heart and mind—like a sentry posted at the door. What actually triggers worry (Biblically) Worry often begins when: •We try to control outcomes God never asked us to control. •We imagine futures God has not revealed. •We carry burdens God did not assign. “Cast all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7) The word cast means to throw upon—not to gently place and then pick back up.

Here are some practical, biblical way to replace worry within daily life Step 1: Identify the worry. Ask yourself: “What am I afraid of losing or not having?” This exposes what the heart is clinging to.

Step 2: Turn it into a prayer immediately. Instead of replaying the fear: “Father, You already know this need. I place it into Your hands.” This is obedience, not denial. Step 3: Add thanksgiving before the outcome. Thank God before the answer: “Thank You that You are faithful, whether the outcome is what I expect or not.” This is where faith matures. Step 4: Return to today’s obedience Jesus said: “Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” (Matt. 6:34) Ask: “What has God asked me to do today?” Peace usually returns when obedience resumes. A gentle but important truth. Worry is not just emotional-it is spiritual. It quietly says: “I must carry this because God might not.” That’s why Jesus addresses it so directly—not to condemn us, but to free us.

A question for reflection (not to answer out loud) What is one worry that has been trying to take God’s place as the controller in your life?

Alright—let’s take a real-life, everyday example, the kind Jesus was addressing directly. I’ll use finances, because that is the exact context of Matthew 6.

A REAL-LIFE EXAMPLE: WORRY ABOUT MONEY The situation Bills are due. Income feels uncertain. The mind starts running: •“What if I can’t cover this?” •“What if something else breaks?” •“What if I fall behind?”This is not laziness. This is anxious pressure.

Concern says: “I need wisdom and provision.” Worry says: “If I don’t mentally carry this constantly, everything will fall apart.” That’s the moment worry becomes a substitute savior. Jesus says: “Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?” (Matt. 6:25) In other words: “Your life is not sustained by money alone.”

Now, Jesus points to: •Birds (they gather, but do not obsess) •Lilies (they grow, but do not strain) “Your heavenly Father feeds them… Are you not of more value than they?” (Matt. 6:26)

Worry forgets value. Faith remembers Fatherhood. When the anxious thought comes: Instead of replaying it, interrupt it: “Father, You already know this need. I choose to trust You with what I cannot control.” This is obedience, not pretending.

Then do what God did assign: •Budget honestly •Work diligently •Seek wise counsel if needed Faith is not passive-but peace comes from leaving the outcome with God.

Why thanksgiving matters BEFORE provision Paul says: “With thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Phil. 4:6) Thanksgiving before the answer says: “God is good even if the outcome stretches me.” That is mature faith.

Paul promises: “The peace of God… will guard your heart and mind through Christ Jesus.” (Phil. 4:7)

Notice: •The situation may not change immediately •But the inner guard does Peace stands watch over your thoughts so worry doesn’t storm back in.

Jesus does not say “don’t worry” because He is minimizing your need. He says it because He refuses to let fear rule what He already governs.

Worry is wrong not because it’s human— but because it robs you of rest God intends you to have. “Give us this day our daily bread.” (Matt. 6:11) Not monthly. Not five-year plans. Daily. God specializes in daily faithfulness.

Sermon Notes For 1-21-26 Part 3 For The Gospel Of Matthew Chapter 6: Vs. 25 Thru 34, For This Will Be (The 5th Out Of 5) Corrective Topics From Our Lord Jesus Which Will Be Life-Changing, (But) It Will Also Reveal How Superficial Or Serious Our Commitment To Obey The Lord Jesus The Messiah King Really Is!

Please have some paper, or your Wednesday noon Bible study notebook, and a pen or pencil.

Now, let’s turn to The Gospel Of Matthew Chapter 6. And let’s continue with The Gospel Of Matthew Chapter 6: verses 25 thru 34.

And this will be our 5th Corrective Topic That Our Lord Jesus Addresses Which Is A Deep- Seated Problem That Existed Then, And It Still Exists Now!

And what would that be, “The Fear Within Us Of Not Having Enough!”

Now, notice Matthew 6: 30 Now, if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? 31 Therefore, do not worry saying, 'What shall we eat? or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32 For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. (Stop here)

Now remember, I said, that throughout certain times in history and in certain parts of the world even within the United States, the fear within us of not having enough was and is a reality! •Due to wars or a foreign government take over. Or due to a conflict or a civil disorder uprising. •Sometimes it was due to a local or regional famine or water shortages. •Sometimes it was due to a local or regional natural disaster. •Sometimes it was due to a local or regional job shortage, or a layoff, or stores or businesses, going out of business. •Sometimes it was due to a local or regional Inflation the prices for things continues to go up in cost Or sometimes it was due to a major collapse of their economy or currency.

So again, throughout certain times in history and in certain parts of the world even within the United States, the fear within us of not having enough was and is a reality!

And as God’s people, if we don’t deal with these possibilities according to the Scriptures. Then this can lead us into a lifetime of insecurities about our daily survival living in an uncertain world.

Fortunately, our Lord Jesus who also lived at a certain times in history and in a certain part of the world.

Yet, He graciously revealed unto us a better way to overcome this deep-seated problem that existed then, and it still exists now, “the fear within us of not having enough!”

Now, notice Matthew Chapter 6.30. Now, if God so clothes the grass or flowers of the field which today is and tomorrow is thrown into an outdoor oven for kindling. Will (He) Your Heavenly Father mentioned vs 32. Will (He) not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? “O you of little faith!”

(Question) Was this a criticism or was an accurate evaluation of where the people Matthew 5: 1A. And seeing the multitudes, Jesus went up upon a mountain, a Hill slope.

And the first four chosen disciples. Matthew 5:1B said, And when He was seated His disciples came to Him. Also, Matthew 4:18-22. See later.

(Question) Was this a criticism or was an accurate evaluation of where the people and the first four chosen disciples were at the time?

Now, this phrase used here in Matthew 6:30 by our Lord Jesus is also used in other places in Gospels writings. “O you of little faith” about worry and trust in God. Matthew 8:26. “Why are you fearful, O you of little faith?” (storm on the sea). Matthew 14:31. “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” (Peter walking on water) Matthew 16:8. “O you of little faith, why do you reason among yourselves…?” Luke 12:28.

My worrying says something about the maturity of my faith as well as where my faith has not been firmly placed or is resting in.

“Weak faith” The exact phrase appears in Romans. Romans 14:1. “Receive one who is weak in the faith, but not to disputes over doubtful things.” Romans 14:2. “For one believes he may eat all things, but he who is weak eats only vegetables.” Meaning: Faith that is sincere but immature or sensitive, especially regarding conscience and liberty.

“Strong faith” The phrase is used explicitly by Paul. Romans 4:19–20. “And not being weak in faith… he did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God.”

“Great faith” Matthew 8:10 (Centurion) Matthew 15:28 (Canaanite woman)

Growing / Increasing faith. Luke 17:5 – “Increase our faith” 2 Thessalonians 1:3 – “Your faith grows exceedingly”

Now, back to Matthew Chapter 6. Now, notice Matthew Chapter 6.30B. O you of little faith?

(Question), So, what is faith? The Greek Word for Faith: πίστις (pístis) Basic Meaning πίστις (pistis) means: •believe or believing. •Confidence. •Reliance.

Faith, πίστις (pístis) is more relational than intellectual. It is not merely believing facts but placing trust in someone.

Related Greek Words (Same word family)

Understanding these together is important: 1. πιστεύω (pisteúō) — to believe / to trust This is the verb form. “Whoever believes (πιστεύων) in Him shall not perish…” — John 3:16. It means to entrust oneself to. 2. πιστός (pistós) — faithful / trustworthy Often describes God or a faithful person. “God is faithful (πιστός).” — 1 Corinthians 1:9. This shows that faith is connected to reliability and loyalty, not just belief.

How Faith Was Understood in the 1st Century In the Greco-Roman and Jewish world, πίστις commonly meant: •Loyalty •Allegiance •Commitment •Trust demonstrated by action For example: •A servant’s pistis toward a master meant loyal obedience •A citizen’s pistis toward a ruler meant allegiance

So, when the New Testament speaks of “faith in Christ,” it implies trusting loyalty, not mere agreement.

Faith as Relationship, Not Just Belief This is why: •Demons can “believe” facts (James 2:19) •But saving faith involves personal trust and commitment

Faith is relational and covenantal, not abstract. Faith in Key Passages Mark 11:22 “Have faith in God” Greek: ἔχετε πίστιν θεοῦ.

This can mean: •“Have faith in God” •Or “Have God’s kind of faith” (faith grounded in God’s character) Either way, the focus is God, not the believer’s inner strength.

Hebrews 11:1 (Expanded Sense) “Faith (πίστις) is confidence in what God has promised, and assurance concerning what is not yet seen.”

A Helpful Summary πίστις is active trust rooted in relationship, expressed through loyalty and obedience, grounded in the faithfulness of God.

Faith is less about how strongly you believe, and more about who you trust. Now, let’s define more what faith is, but also what is not!

Again, What Faith Is! Faith is trust in God’s character. Faith is not just believing something will happen but trusting Someone.

“He who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” Hebrews 11:6

Faith rests in who God is, He is faithful, good, wise, and sovereign. Faith is confidence in God’s promises. Faith believes God will do what He has said He will do. “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1.

It treats God’s word as reliable, even before results are visible. Faith is active trust that leads to obedience. True faith moves a person to act.

“By faith Abraham obeyed…” Hebrews 11:8 “Faith without works is dead.” James 2:17 Faith does not remain theoretical - it shows itself in action.

Faith is dependence on God, not self. Faith admits, “I cannot do this on my own; I need God.” “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,” says the Lord. Zechariah 4:6.

Faith is submission to God’s will. Faith trusts God even when the outcome differs from expectations. “Nevertheless, not My will, but Yours, be done.” Luke 22:42

Now, What Faith Is Not! Faith is not positive thinking or spoken words Faith is not optimism, visualization, or mental persuasion. Biblical faith is God-centered, Faith is not forcing God. Faith does not demand or manipulate God into acting. “You do not put the Lord your God to the test.” Matthew 4:7

Faith prays with confidence and humility. Faith is not denying reality. Faith does not pretend problems don’t exist.

John 16:33. These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation but be of good cheer I have overcome the world.

Faith is not self-faith. Faith is not believing in yourself. “Have faith in God.” Mark 11:22. The object of faith matters more than the strength of faith.

See let’s Hebrews 11: 1 Now, faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. 2 For by it the elders obtained a good testimony. 3 By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible. 4 By faith Abel offered to God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, through which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts; and through it he being dead still speaks. 5 By faith Enoch was taken away so that he did not see death, "and was not found, because God had taken him"; for before he was taken he had this testimony, that he pleased God. 6 But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he or she who comes unto God must believe that He is, And that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.

Now, here is a Biblical pathway for growing and developing in faith, grounded in Scripture. Faith grows by hearing and knowing God’s Word.(Note) Faith does not grow in a vacuum.

See Romans 10:17. “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. •Not just reading, but receiving God’s word •Seeing God’s character, not just promises. •Letting Scripture correct false ideas about God. Mature faith knows who God is, not just what He can do.

Faith matures through obedience in small things. Faith grows as it is lived out, not imagined.

James 2:22. “Faith was working together with his works, and by works faith was made perfect (mature).” •Obedience strengthens trust •Small, faithful steps prepare us for larger ones •God rarely skips the ordinary Faith is strengthened by faithfulness, not hype. Faith deepens through testing and trials

This is unavoidable—and intentional. James 1:2–4. “The testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete.”

1 Peter 1:6–7. Faith is refined like gold through fire •Trials reveal where faith rests •Endurance produces maturity. •Faith becomes steady, not fragile. Untried faith is unproven faith.

Faith matures by learning to wait on God. Waiting is a major biblical classroom. Isaiah 40:31. “Those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength.” Hebrews 6:12. “Through faith and patience inherit the promises.” •Impatience weakens faith •Waiting purifies motives •Trust deepens when outcomes are delayed Waiting teaches us to trust God’s timing, not control outcomes.

5. Faith grows through prayer and dependence Mature faith prays honestly. Mark 9:24. “Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!” Philippians 4:6–7. Prayer guards the heart and mind. •Mature faith admits weakness •Prayer keeps faith God-centered •Dependence replaces self-reliance

6. Faith matures in community. God never intended faith to grow alone. Hebrews 10:24–25. “Exhort one another… encouraging one another.” Romans 1:12. Mutual strengthening of faith. •Teaching protects from error •Encouragement stabilizes faith •Accountability keeps faith grounded

7. Faith matures by fixing its focus on Christ This is the centerpiece. Hebrews 12:2. “Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.” •Faith begins with Christ •Faith grows by staying centered on Him •Faith matures by trusting His faithfulness Faith matures not by focusing on faith, but by focusing on Christ. A simple biblical summary Faith matures when we: 1.Hear God’s Word 2.Obey faithfully 3.Endure trials 4.Wait patiently 5.Pray honestly 6.Walk with others 7.Fix our eyes on Jesus

Colossians 2:6–7. “As you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him… established in the faith.”

Now, notice Again Matthew 6:30. Now, if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, (O you of little faith?) Jesus does not say: •“You have no faith” •“You are faithless” He says “little faith.” The Greek word oligopistos means: •Small •Underdeveloped •Immature or incomplete

So, this is not a condemnation, but a diagnosis. They do believe in God. They do follow Jesus. But their trust has not yet grown to match their knowledge of God.

An accurate evaluation of their spiritual condition Yes - it is a true assessment of where they were at that moment. They believed: •God exists •God provides But they still felt anxious about: •Food •Clothing •Tomorrow So, their faith was real, but thin under pressure.

This mirrors many Biblical examples: •Israel trusted God for manna daily, yet worried about tomorrow. •The disciples followed Jesus yet panicked in storms. Faith existed - but anxiety exposed its limits.

Why Jesus says it here Jesus has just said: •God feeds birds •God clothes flowers •You are more valuable than both

So, when anxiety remains, Jesus points out the disconnect: If you truly trust the Father’s care, why is fear still governing your thoughts? Not to shame them —but to invite them into deeper trust.

Jesus often uses this phrase with His disciples. Notably, Jesus says “little faith” only to His followers, never to outsiders. Examples: •During the storm (Matt 8:26) •When Peter sinks while walking on water (Matt 14:31) •When they worry about bread (Matt 16:8)

This tells us: “Little faith” is a family correction, not a public rebuke. Correction, not rejection. Jesus does not: •Send them away •Withdraw His care •Say they don’t belong Instead, He continues teaching, guiding, and reassuring.

So the tone is:•Corrective •Pastoral •Hopeful Think of it as: “You trust Me… but not as much as you could.”

Why Jesus must say it Unchecked anxiety: •Competes with trust •Distorts God’s character •Keeps believers spiritually immature Jesus exposes the issue so it can be healed.

Faith grows when: •Fear is named •Perspective is restore •Trust is practiced A balanced conclusion

So, was it criticism or evaluation? ✔ An accurate evaluation of their present faith ✔ A gentle correction, not condemnation. ✖ Not an insult or rejection.

Now, let’s see Mark 11: 22 So Jesus answered and said to them, Have faith in God! 23 For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, be removed and be cast into the sea, and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. 24 Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.

The setting matters (Mark 11:12–21) Jesus had just •Cursed the fig tree (a symbol of fruitless religion) •Cleansed the Temple, confronting corruption and empty worship

When the disciples later saw the fig tree withered from the roots, Jesus used it as a teaching moment. So, His words are not a random promise about unlimited power they are tied to faith, prayer, and God’s purposes. “This mountain” — not a random mountain

When Jesus said, “whoever says to this mountain…,” He was likely pointing to: •The Mount of Olives, overlooking the Temple •Or symbolically referring to something immovable, obstructive, and overwhelming

In Jewish teaching, a “mountain” often meant: •A seemingly impossible obstacle •A deeply rooted spiritual problem •An entrenched system opposing God’s will

So, Jesus was not encouraging spectacle, but trust in God to remove what blocks His purposes. Faith is not mental force or positive speech Jesus says: “does not doubt in his heart, but believes…”

Biblical faith is not: •Trying to will something into existence •Using words as a formula •Naming and claiming whatever we want

Biblical faith rests in God’s authority, not our own. Compare this with: •1 John 5:14 – “If we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.” •James 4:3 – “You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss…”

Faith is confidence in God, not confidence in ourselves. Whatever you ask in prayer” — with one major condition Verse 24 must be read with verse 25: “And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him…”

This shows that Jesus is talking about: •A right heart before God •Prayer flowing from repentance, humility, and forgiveness Unforgiveness and pride block faith.

What Jesus was really saying In plain terms, Jesus was teaching this: When God’s people trust Him fully, pray with sincere faith, and live in right relationship with Him and others, no obstacle that opposes God’s will is too great for God to remove. This includes: •Spiritual bondage •Hard hearts •Seemingly impossible situations •Barriers to God’s kingdom work

A helpful paraphrase You could paraphrase Jesus’ teaching like this: “When you pray, trust God completely. Don’t let unbelief or bitterness rule your heart. If what you ask aligns with God’s will, He has the power to remove even what seems impossible.”

Why this mattered to the disciples. The disciples would soon face: •Persecution •The collapse of the Temple system (fulfilled in AD 70) •The impossible task of spreading the gospel to the world, Jesus was preparing them to depend on God, not appearances.