
Who’s Right: The Translations or the Preachers?
Read: Matthew 28:16-20 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations (v. 19 NIV) When I was a new Christian in my teens, I heard more sermons on the Great
Have you ever read a passage in the Bible and thought, “What does that even mean?”
You’re not alone. Some parts of Scripture are deeply challenging—whether because of cultural distance, unfamiliar religious context, or just plain hard sayings from Jesus himself. Difficult Passages in Matthew is a devotional series designed to walk you gently but honestly through those tricky verses that often raise more questions than answers.
Written by scholar Craig Blomberg, these daily reflections blend theological insight with pastoral care. Each devotion engages one of Matthew’s tough texts—from Jesus’s genealogy, to confusing parables, to the meaning of the “unforgivable sin,” and more. Rather than skimming over these sections or twisting them to fit easy answers, Blomberg invites us to explore the richness, nuance, and ultimately the hope embedded in them.
Whether you’re a long-time Bible reader or someone still exploring faith, this series offers a safe space to bring your questions and doubts. With clarity and compassion, you’ll be encouraged to wrestle with Scripture—not to undermine your faith, but to deepen it. These aren’t just academic explanations; they are invitations to trust Jesus more fully—even when we don’t fully understand.
If you’ve ever wondered how to make sense of hard sayings or why certain passages are even in the Bible, this devotional will offer insight, encouragement, and a renewed appreciation for the depth of God’s Word. Come and discover how faith grows in the wrestling.

Read: Matthew 28:16-20 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations (v. 19 NIV) When I was a new Christian in my teens, I heard more sermons on the Great
Craig L. Blomberg is the Distinguished Professor Emeritus of New Testament at Denver Seminary. He has written or edited more than 30 books, including a recently revised and expanded commentary on Matthew. He teaches regularly in churches, including his home church of Centennial Covenant in Littleton, CO. He and his wife Fran have two daughters and three grandchildren.