I am Jesus pusher!!! Jesus moved His ministry from Judea to Galilee upon hearing John the Baptist was imprisoned. Matthew clearly states this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Isaiah the prophet (Matthew 4:14). The main verb of this statement (fulfilled) is in the subjunctive mood. This suggests the idea of “if” or “maybe.” Matthew is highlighting the “choice” or “free will” of men; he is not undermining the certainty of prophecy. What God speaks is as certain as the very character and nature of God. Sometimes God speaks; therefore, it is true. But often God speaks because it is true. God speaks; worlds are created. But God also recognizes the responsibility of man. God speaks not to cause man’s actions, but knowing man’s actions. This is true for the Scriptures. Things are not true because they are in the Scriptures. They are in the Scriptures because they are true. God is speaking the Scriptures through His knowledge of all things. There is no doubt about the certainty of the Scriptures or prophecy.
This declares God’s plan is secure. Jesus is this plan. The Jewish leaders can plot against Him; the Roman soldiers can crucify Him; John the Baptist can be imprisoned; you and I can disbelieve Him. It simply does not change the plan. The certainty of the plan does not rest upon my choice or response; it depends upon the character of God. Jesus, the plan, is the declaration of the character of God. He is the plan for my life; I will not miss Him. I am a Jesus pusher!!!