Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum

Bible Reading: Matthew 11:20-24

We do not have a record of the miracles Jesus did or the sermons He preached in Chorazin and Bethsaida, but we have plenty from His ministry in Capernaum. His earthly ministry was in and around the city of Capernaum. In Chorazin and Bethsaida, too, Jesus likely performed similar miracles. 

Jesus rebuked the cities of Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum. Jesus said, "Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! ... But I say to you, it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon in the day of judgment than for you." And yet, the people there did not repent. Jesus said that if He had done the miracles He had done in Capernaum in Sodom, they would have repented (Matthew 11:21-23).

When we think of these cities, we may think they were 'blessed' because they were personally able to witness the works of Jesus. However, the ministry of Jesus was not a blessing to them but a curse because they did not respond to His message. God's judgment was fulfilled against these cities. Bethlehem, Nazareth, and Jericho exist today, but Capernaum, Chorazin, and Bethsaida do not.

There is a profound principle in these words of Christ. 

Jesus said that to whom much is given, much will be required (Luke 12:48). This emphasizes that greater responsibility comes with greater blessings, opportunities, and knowledge. Those entrusted with more, whether it is gifts, knowledge, or resources, will be held to a higher standard of accountability. It means those of us who call ourselves Christians have a greater responsibility to live out the values. 

I am a fifth-generation Christian, and if my life does not reveal Christ and reflect His glory, woe to me. What a great challenge! 

Being unresponsive to God's voice will be our downfall. William Barclay observes, 'These cities did not attack Jesus Christ; they did not drive him from their gates; they did not seek to crucify him; they simply disregarded him. Neglect can kill as much as persecution can."

My friend, having heard many sermons, read the Bible many times, and received much instruction, if we do not live by His principles, we shall be committed to the lowest hell, far below the wickedest of the heathen! This is a great warning for us today. Let us repent today of the things that do not honor God in our lives and return to the Lord. 

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I understand the responsibility I have to be salt and light in this world. Lord, help me and empower me with a double portion of Your Holy Spirit. Amen.