Matthew 13:53-58 A Prophet Rejected Through Unbelief.

After finishing his discourse on the parables, Jesus departed for his own country, and as was his custom he entered the synagogue to teach (vv. 53-54a Cf. Ps. 22:22; 2:23; Mk. 6:1; Lk. 4:16). The people knew him as a one who was born and raised by a carpenter, the son of Mary, with brothers and sisters whom they all knew as their neighbours (vv. 55-56a Cf. Mk. 6:3-4; Lk. 3:23). Therefore they were astonished at his wisdom and the “mighty works” they saw him perform (v. 54b). However, because they regarded him as a common person, they were also offended, envy and jealousy going hand in hand with their unbelief (vv. 57-58 Cf. Is. 49:7; Mk. 6:5-6; Lk. 4:24; Jn. 4:44; 5:44-47; 7:15). They were offended that he was regarded as so high and mighty (Cf. Jn. 6:42), but all are blessed who are not offended (11:6). “Jesus’ refusal to do many miracles in Nazareth was not because He needed the faith of people to empower Him, but because miracles are of little value to those without faith” (NGSB 1529).