Scott Allen leads today's lesson from Matthew 17:1-13. Three disciples went with Jesus to the mountain top. There, Jesus full glory was shown as He took on the white light of a heavenly presence. Two key figures, Moses and Elijah, appeared as well, representing the Law and the Prophets (that is, the entire Old Testament). But most of all, the voice of God the Father affirmed Jesus (as at Jesus' baptism) and directed the disciples to listen to Him. Post-resurrection, all believers are invited to rest in the glorious presence of Jesus, treasuring His words to us and expressing thankfulness for all that Jesus intentionally fulfilled on our behalf at the cross.

Scott Allen leads today's lesson from Matthew 16:13-26. Who is Jesus? People have their opinions, but believers recognize what Peter realized, that Jesus is the Christ (Messiah), the Son of God. As we recognize who Jesus is, we also learn what it means to serve under His authority and submit to His priorities, because in the economy of heaven, nothing compares to the riches of knowing Christ in this life and the assurance of eternal life ahead.

Scott Allen leads today's lesson from Matthew 15:1-11, 15-20. The Pharisees, by reputation the most religious and zealous of all Jews, accused Jesus' disciples of a legal violation when they ate without immediately washing their hands first. Jesus in turn pointed out the hypocrisy of those who focus on external and superficial human rules but disobey God's moral law. The Pharisees encouraged Jews to abandon their duty toward their parents and instead devote all of their gifts to the temple treasury. In their greed for more material donations, the Pharisees were in disobedience to God's moral commandment to honor one's father and mother. Believers must always guard against the hypocrisy of following man-made rules instead of God's timeless instructions.