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Matthew 12 – The Example of David
Reading this complicated text, one easily sees the reasoning behind the example of the Priests having to “work” on the Sabbath. It is the example of David (1 Samuel 21) that makes us scratch our heads. So the question is why?
1. Personal – Apparently the Pharisees approved of the example of David and it was far more questionable than Jesus’s disciples plucking the grain.
2. Narrative – David claimed to be on a mission for the king, and Jesus’ disciples were – Jesus.
3. Narrative – Saul was trying to kill David, and after this the Pharisees would plot to destroy Jesus (Matthew 12.14).
4. Theological – Mercy trumps ritual (12:7).
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