Jesus said: “Show me the coin used for paying the tax. . . . Whose image is this? And whose inscription?” Matthew 22:19,20
TOPIC: Jesus used object lessons.
BACKGROUND: Jesus often connected his lessons to familiar objects.
Anyone who has studied education knows that a person retains information better when using more than one of their senses during the learning process. Listening is good. Listening and taking notes is better. Add to that an optical aid and the retention increases. That’s why teachers are taught to use object lessons in their classrooms.
Jesus as the great teacher, often used objects in his teaching. By doing so he heightened the learning experience and made it more memorable.
Some examples of Jesus using objects are:
- Matthew 22:15-22: Jesus used a coin to make a point about giving to Caesar what is due him and to God what is due him.
- Matthew 18:1-4: Jesus took a child and showed who was greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
- John 4:7-14: Jesus spoke to the Samaritan woman about the water of life while seated at a well.
- Mark 12:41-44: Jesus and the disciples watched a widow give her last penny.
- John 13:3-7: Jesus made a point about servanthood while he washed his disciples’ feet.
Many other teaching moments were likely enhanced with an object such as a mustard seed, grape vines, bread, sheep, and fish.
PRAYER THOUGHT: by Leander W. Munhall
Teacher, comforter, and guide,
In our hearts do Thou abide;
And in life, whate’er betide,
Help us evermore. Amen.
PAUL WRITES ABOUT JESUS: “Because of the undeserved grace of God and our Lord Jesus Christ, you will bring honor to the name of our Lord Jesus, and he will bring honor to you.” 2 Thessalonians 1:12 CEV
From At the Feet of Jesus by Reynold R. Kremer