Our Great Savior

Matthew 12:42

Adrian Rogers


Sermon Overview

Scripture Reference: Matthew 12:42

In the Old Testament, King Solomon was the apex of all greatness, wealth, and wonder.

In Matthew 12, Jesus was criticized and judged by the Pharisees. In response, He said, “The queen of the South will rise up in the judgment with this generation and condemn it, for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and indeed a greater than Solomon is here.”

By all appearances of class, wealth, and status, Jesus, a carpenter’s son, did not compare to Solomon, son of King David. But the truth is, our great Savior is infinitely greater than Solomon.

First, Jesus is greater than Solomon in wisdom.

Having written the Book of Proverbs, Solomon was a man known for his wisdom, but it did not satisfy him. Solomon’s wisdom about life, nature, and direction did not compare to Jesus’ lordship over life, nature, and direction.

Adrian Rogers says, “You can have a full head and an empty heart.”

Jesus is also greater than Solomon in His works.

Solomon built a temple for the Lord and hosted feasts. But Jesus is building the Kingdom, setting a table, and turning us, His people, into living temples of God.

Third, Jesus is greater in His workers.

Solomon’s servants were notably happy, dressed, and nourished like wealthy men. But as workers of Jesus Christ, we’ve received infinitely more, therefore, we are greater in joy and dedication.

Jesus is greater than Solomon in His wealth.

No one had ever seen a man as wealthy as Solomon. Yet, the cattle on a thousand hills belong to Jesus; every star in the sky is His. This is His world; and as His followers, He has left us great spiritual riches no money can buy.

Jesus is greater in worth and worship.

Solomon built the temple to lead his people in worship. Jesus sits upon the eternal throne in Heaven and He will never dispossess it.

Finally, Jesus is greater than Solomon in His wonder.

When the queen of Sheba saw everything Solomon had done, she was filled with awe and amazement. Jesus is even more wonderful; we could never articulate or describe His wonder.


Apply it to your life

Do you worship our great Savior, who is greater than any before Him, who reigns for all eternity? Spend some time in Scripture today and thank Him for saving you.