Tag: Matthew 23
Beware of putting on a show.
Scripture reading for January 31: Matthew 23
“They do all their deeds to be seen by others. For they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long, and they love the place of honor at feasts and the best seats in the synagogues and greetings in the marketplaces and being called rabbi by others. But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers. And call no man your father on earth, for you have one Father, Who is in heaven. Neither be called instructors, for you have one Instructor, the Christ. The greatest among you shall be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” Matthew 23:5-12
Jesus warned His disciples about the religious showmen of His day, the Pharisees and scribes. Their religious deeds were meant to be seen by others so that their reputation might be enhanced. Pride and desire for glory was behind their showmanship. They wanted approval of men and places of honor and people looking upon them for their prestigious titles. These people were setting themselves up for a humbling experience.
But followers of Jesus would find true greatness in becoming servants of God and others. The titles of ministry or leadership were not to be sought after. Each follower had One Rabbi and Teacher, Jesus Christ, Who Alone was worthy of praise and exaltation. No man was to be called ‘father’ because all have One Father, God Almighty. The posture of assuming the lowest place of a servant would bring reward.
Do you see any aspects of your life today where you are seeking the approval of men rather than God? Are titles and places of honor something you crave? What is one thing you could do to humble yourself?
Prayer: Father God, thank You for this plain warning concerning the pride of life and seeking man’s approval. I know that I have fallen into that trap at times in my life. Thank You for the correction and direction that comes from Your Word and the Holy Spirit. Have Your way in me, Lord! Amen.
Stay open to Christ’s compassion!
Scripture reading for February 2nd: Matthew 23
Key Scriptures for over-comers: Matthew 23:37-38 “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing. Look, your house is left to you desolate. For I tell you, you will not see Me again until you say, ‘Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the Lord.'”
Over the ages of time, the Bible records many times where God tried to warn and protect His people from coming disaster and judgment. Many times they were stubborn and unwilling to listen, wanting to go their own way. They sometimes killed or mistreated the messengers that God sent to them. In New Testament times, they would kill the Son of God, Jesus Christ and similarly mistreat His disciples.
Over-comers must always welcome Jesus’ direction and protection. They must welcome the messengers of God and be a willing bearer of the good news themselves! They must walk in awareness that not all will receive the good news and that persecution may come.
Observations for over-comers: Jesus longs to gather and protect His people! He would rather show mercy than judge! “The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and he delivers them. Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him.” (Psalm 34:7-8)
Practice what you preach!
Scripture reading for February 2nd: Matthew 23
Jesus had the hardest words for religious leaders who taught the Law of God. His principle was that those that had received much were responsible for much. “Then Jesus said to the crowds and to His disciples: “The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. So you must obey them and do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach. They tie up heavy loads and put them on men’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them. Everything they do is done for men to see: . . .” (Matthew 23:1-5a)
Jesus taught the people to obey their religious authorities. When we disrespect authority, we disrespect God Himself. (Romans 13:1-2) These authorities were bad examples! They did not live what they taught and their deeds were done to impress men and not God! This would bring “woe” upon them! They liked the titles and positions of authority, but were not humble before God or man. (Matthew 23:8-12)
They tithed religiously even down to every tenth leaf of their spices, but neglected the more important matters of justice and mercy and faithfulness. Jesus warned them that they ought to tithe, but not neglect the more important matters of treating people with dignity. They washed their hands and dishes religiously, but inside they were full of hypocrisy and wickedness! (Matthew 23:25-28) Jesus even went so far as to call them snakes and vipers for killing the prophets that God had sent to warn them and turn them back! He, the Christ, was doing so right then! When we read these woes, we must open our own lives to the Word! Hypocrisy is a deadly sin!