In Matthew chapter 13, we find where Jesus returned to His hometown of Nazareth. While He was there, He taught the people of His hometown in their synagogue. His teaching was so anointed and so much different compared to what they were used to hearing that some even said, “Where did this Man get this wisdom and these mighty works?” (vs. 54).

This statement by itself would seem complimentary. However, they continued on and said, “Is this not the carpenter’s son? Is not His mother called Mary? And His brothers James, Joses, Simon, and Judas? And His sisters, are they not all with us? Where then did this Man get all these things?” (vs. 55,56).

Then in verse 57 we find the result of their questioning. The Bible says that they became offended at Him. Because they were offended, they did not believe Him. In Mark’s account of this incident, he said that Jesus could not do any mighty works there except that He laid hands on a few sick people and healed them.

Because the people of Nazareth became offended at Jesus, they restricted themselves from receiving great and mighty miracles in their city.

Let’s take a look at the reason they became offended. They became offended because they were familiar with Jesus and His family. As modern day Christians we must not fall into this same trap.

From time to time I will receive a phone call from someone who wants to make an “appointment” for me to lay hands on them for their healing or for some other type of ministry. When I ask them if they’ve asked the head of their household to do this, many times the reply is, “No, I would rather have you do it.”

I do understand that there are times when we need our pastor or spiritual mentor to anoint us or lay hands upon us. However, we cannot allow the familiarity that we have with our spouses to restrict us from receiving from God through them.

Great deliverance from the bondages of life can take place in your own home through the laying on of hands or prayer of agreement by one of the members of your own family. Don’t allow the spirit of familiarity to hinder you from receiving the blessings of God.

Reject the spirit of familiarity and receive ministry in your own home.

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