Tag: Matthew 23:1-5
Putting on a show!
Scripture reading for August 17th: Isaiah 4-6, Matthew 23
Key Scriptures: Matthew 23:1-5 “Then Jesus said to the crowds and to His disciples, “The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat, so do and observe whatever they tell you, but not the works they do. For they preach, but do not practice. They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on people’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to move them with their finger. They do all their deeds to be seen by others. . .”
One of Jesus’ teachings in the last week of His life involved warning the people about the practice of the Pharisees and scribes. They were preachers who sat in the seat of authority in Israel and taught the Word of God. Jesus encouraged them to listen to them because of their position but not to follow their practice! They were play-actors, putting on a show for others to see but not practicing what they preached! This would bring God’s judgment on those involved!
Faith confession and prayer: Lord Jesus, deliver me from any hidden hypocrisy–preaching but not practicing–Your Word. Empower me with the Holy Spirit to help people know You by preaching practicing Your Word.
Isaiah 5:20 “Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter.”
Please God Alone!
Scripture reading for January 31st: Matthew 23, Psalm 23, Proverbs 23
Key Scriptures: Matthew 23:1-5 “Then Jesus said to the crowds and to His disciples, “The scribes and Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat, so do and observe whatever they tell you, but do not the works they do. For they preach, but do not practice. They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on people’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to move them with their finger. They do all their deeds to be seen by others.””
Jesus never taught rebellion against God’s established authority, but humble submission. He called out leaders who were not submissive to God’s authority and Word. Here He called out those who preached but did not practice what God’s Word instructed. These leaders were play actors, putting on a performance for others to see while forgetting that God knew their hearts! Those who are called to leadership and those under leadership must listen to God and apply His Word.
Faith Confession: Lord, I believe Your Word and ask for Your help to apply it to my life, attitudes and actions. May I perform for an audience of One because I love You with all my heart.
Proverbs 23:22-23 “Listen to your father who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old. Buy truth, and do not sell it; buy wisdom, instruction, and understanding.”
Don’t put on a show!
Scripture reading for January 31st: Exodus 28-30, Matthew 23
Key Scriptures: Matthew 23:1-5 “Then Jesus said to the crowds and to His disciples, “The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat, so do and observe whatever they tell you, but no the works they do. For they preach, but do not practice. They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on people’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to move them with their fingers. They do all their deeds to be seen by others.”
Jesus was preparing to return to heaven and was giving His final instructions. He warned the disciples about imitating the current religious leaders of the day. Their example was not one to follow in that they preached one thing and did another. They also performed religious works to be seen by others, not focusing on pleasing God. We must walk in obedience to please our Father!
Exodus 28:1-2 “Then bring near to you Aaron your brother, and his sons with him, from among the people of Israel, to serve Me as priests–Aaron and Aaron’s sons, Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar. And you shall make holy garments for Aaron your brother, for glory and for beauty.”
Prayer: Lord, Help me to wear the holy garment of Your righteousness in all that I do. May I please you and not perform for men. Amen