Matthew

Unexpected King cover image

Every Wednesday until March 29, 2023

6:30pm – 8:00pm

Category: Super Wednesday | Coordinator: Greg Smith
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Unexpected: Exploring the Kingdom of God in the Gospel of Matthew

Sermon series: January 8 - March 26, 2023

Super Wednesday Matthew study class: January 11 - March 29, 2023 at 6:30 pm in the Kinloch Room

Charles Wesley wrote this amazing Advent hymn, Come Thou Long Expected Jesus:

Born thy people to deliver,
born a child and yet a King,
born to reign in us forever,
now thy gracious kingdom bring.


The only challenge is that it becomes increasingly clear in the Gospel of Matthew that Jesus is either not what people expected – or worse – not what they wanted in a King.

His mannerisms, expectations, promises and even miracles all seemed just a little different than the people had hoped for. Looking for a battle King to save them from political tyranny they are disappointed when Jesus wants to heal hearts and fight a different enemy. To the point of death they just don’t see him. Well, most people don’t see him. The ones who do are surprising and unexpected themselves. The Unexpected King comes for the least expected people.

As you journey through this Gospel you will have a special guide. The Rt. Rev. J.C. Ryle was the Anglican Bishop of Liverpool in 1880 and was a prolific evangelical writer. But most of all, he was a profound student of the Gospel and loved Jesus. Each week of this guide will end with excerpts from his “Expository Thoughts” which will serve as a commentary and guide for your heart.

Our hope is that by engaging with the text of Matthew’s Gospel and reading J.C. Ryle’s thoughts you will come to see this long-expected Jesus and welcome His gracious Kingdom.

Get a copy of the study guide on Amazon here: Matthew study guide