Hypocrites say one thing and do another and the religious leaders were all about exalting themselves. They looked good on the outside but were not good at all within.
Not acknowledging you need help keeps you from getting better.
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Matthew 23 Notes:
At the temple after his bold journey to Jerusalem where he came in on a donkey, ran off the corrupt money changers, and healed people, Jesus speaks directly and bluntly to the religious leaders. Jesus warns those who would listen that the Pharisees, “do not practice what they preach.” (verse 4) He is not happy with them because they are getting in the way of others knowing God.
A great summarizing passage from Matthew 23 is in verses 11 – 12. “The greatest among you will be your servant. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”
Hypocrites say one thing and do another and these religious leaders were all about exalting themselves. They looked good on the outside but were not good at all within.
Interestingly enough Jesus affirms tithing – giving to God 10% but doing so out of gratitude to God and not to be noticed.
This was a tough message which actually worked on some. We know of at least 2 of the 70 Sanhedrin came to believe Jesus was the Messiah – Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimethea who donated his family tomb for the burial of Jesus.
This spirit of religious arrogance was responsible for the deaths of others persecuted over the years. This reality broke Jesus’ heart as he said he longed to gather the children of Jerusalem together like a mother hen would gather her chicks.
Not acknowledging you need help keeps you from getting better.
What are ways you want to become more faithful, more consistent, more in line with your faith and your actions?
