And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease among the people. Then His fame went throughout all Syria; and they brought to Him all sick people who were afflicted with various diseases and torments, and those who were demon-possessed, epileptics, and paralytics; and He healed them. Great multitudes followed Him—from Galilee, and from Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judea, and beyond the Jordan. — Matthew 4:23-25 NKJV
The life and ministry of Jesus was so radical and popular that He attracted the rich, the powerful, the poor, the sick, children, religious and political leaders from all over. He drew crowds from all regions specifically to introduce them and invite them to the Kingdom of God, and He is still in the business today.
Jesus’ teachings, preaching, healings and miracles attracted and drew all manner of people from every direction. His authority and popularity during His earthly ministry are evidenced by the large crowds that followed Him. His teaching is shown by His speeches, e.g. the Mount of Olives discourses in Matthew 5. His preaching is illustrated by His call for people to repent – “From that time Jesus began to preach and to say, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand’” Matthew 4:17 (NKJV). And His healing is evidenced by the many miracles He performed.
Jesus’ earthly ministry was not done in secret, in obscurity, or in some closed-door secret society meetings or “members only” club gatherings. His ministry was done in full public view, and He was largely accessible to all who heard and knew about Him.
Jesus’ fame and popularity became a matter of tension and offence to some people, especially with the Pharisees, who feared His growing influence. This led to hatred, persecution and ultimately to His death.
After over 2,000 years since He first came on the scene, Jesus is still pulling crowds; His fame and popularity remain a mystery and wonder to many. He is still changing lives, still turning lives around, and tens of thousands come to know Him every day, all over the world.
Fame and popularity were never Jesus’ goal. The multitudes sought Him for many different reasons, some sincerely and some just to cause Him trouble. Jesus, however, was focused on His mission by consistently redirecting people’s attention to the Father and the Kingdom of God, not to Himself as a celebrity figure.
So, what do you know or have you heard about Jesus? Do you know a lot about Him, but don’t really know Him? You can get to know Him for real if you give your heart and invite Him into your life today.
“Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.” Jeremiah 33:3 (NKJV)
Stay blessed,
LaraLex
Hills and Valleys 