In the latest installment of “The Week That Changed the World,” Pastor Adam Ranney and Pastor Dave Ansell sit down in the Scottsdale lobby to discuss the specific weight of the Tuesday before Easter. While Monday was marked by the chaotic cleansing of the temple, Tuesday was defined by Jesus’ deep, intentional teaching during His final days.
Opening the Way for All
Reflecting on the previous day’s events, Pastor Dave notes that by clearing the temple, Jesus wasn’t just expressing anger; He was removing obstacles so that healing, truth, and freedom could reach those who were previously excluded. On Tuesday, with the atmosphere cleared and the people’s attention captured, Jesus took the opportunity to pour out His most profound wisdom.
Kingdom Parables and the “Upside-Down” Way
The discussion dives into the teachings found in Matthew 22 and 25. Pastor Dave explains how Jesus described the Kingdom of God as a “different way of thinking,” where the last shall be first and the first shall be last. These parables were meant to prepare the disciples—and us—for a life of readiness and fruitfulness.
The “Fitness” of Our Faith
In a relatable and witty moment, Pastor Dave shares a personal analogy about his workout equipment. He lists his Peloton, rowing machine, and dumbbells, admitting they haven’t transformed his life physically because he doesn’t actually use them.
He applies this directly to our spiritual lives:
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Possessing the Word of God is not enough; we must exercise and apply it.
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When we apply His teachings, we become the “living stones” of a new temple.
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The goal is a functioning body of Christ that reaches out to build others up.
You Were on His Mind
Perhaps the most moving takeaway from this Tuesday teaching is the realization of Jesus’ focus. Even as He looked toward the cross on Friday, He was teaching with you in mind. His passion for lost people and His desire for us to use our talents to serve “the least of these” remained His priority until the very end.
As we move through this week, we are challenged to look at what we have “in our hands”—whether it’s a simple smile, a kind word at work, or our unique professional talents—and use them to bring the Kingdom of Heaven to Earth.
