To build a church you need a leader who preaches the Gospel, disciples who commit themselves to the church, and ministries that preach, teach, and serve a wide cross-section of the community.

Geography plays an important role in today’s reading. Verses 4:24-25 tell us that Jesus attracted crowds from Syria, Galilee, the Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judea, and the Jordan. The first three areas are Gentile (non-Jews). The last three are Jewish areas.

Now, compare those areas to 3:5, the areas from where John was attracting crowds. It lists only Jerusalem, Judea, and the Jordan.

John’s message was only reaching the Jews. Jesus’ message is reaching both Jew and Gentile. This is a point Matthew is making. The Gospel is for all people.

Call to Action:
1. Find a church where the Bible is authoritative and the Gospel is preached.
2. Commit to the mission and ministry of that church. Be “all in.”
3. Commit to a ministry of the church and find a way to serve all people.