Interpreting the actions of Jesus

Jun 22, 2025    Fr Seraphim Saleeb
This sermon analyzing a single event from the Gospel of Matthew, where Jesus heals a demon-possessed blind and mute man, leading to two radically different interpretations: some wondered if he was the Messiah, the Son of David, while others, the Pharisees, accused him of casting out demons by the power of Beelzebul, the ruler of demons. The sermon draws two key remarks from this contrast: first, that the meaning is not in the message itself but in the receiver's interpretation, suggesting that the same event (like current world unrest) can be read spiritually as a sign of the end times or politically; and second, that one’s own actions and words can become a stumbling block to others' faith. The three final conclusions emphasize the need to pray for a sensitive heart that correctly understands God’s message, to keep one's spiritual compass directed toward heaven, and to guard one's speech and behavior because of their potential to hinder or help others’ belief.