Scripture:
Vs. 12 “And they (Pharisees) were seeking to arrest him but feared the people”
Vs. 14 “And they (Pharisees) came and said to him, “Teacher, we know that you are true and do not care about anyone’s opinion. For you are not swayed by appearances, but truly teach the way of God.”
Vs. 38 “And in his teaching He said, “Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes and like greetings in the market places and have the best seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at feasts, who devour widow’s houses and for a pretense make long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation.”
Observation:
The people who were currently in power felt threatened by Jesus. At the same time they knew Jesus was a person of striking difference from them. Jesus taught truth regardless of peoples opinions of him or his words. The current teachers, the Pharisees, cared more about power and prestige than truth.
Application:
“Long robes” and “long prayers” … what might be the equivalent of that for me today?
I think it’s anything that says “Look at me! I’m worthy of your attention … more than Jesus!”
The pharisees and scribes gave Jesus false flattery.
They did this for attention and fear of people’s opinion.
Where do I give Jesus false flattery?
Do I use scripture to make myself sound good or to make Jesus look good?
In my relationships do I tell people what they want to hear or do I tell people what they need to hear?
Am I seeking popularity or truth?
“Long robes” and “long prayers” ….
I need to have a steady awareness of where I am tempted to lift my own stature at the expense of Jesus.
Prayer:
Father God thank you again for your word.
Help me keep it in front of mind today.
Help me lift you up, raise you up.
Help me see where I want to flatter myself.
Show me your truth and give me the courage to share it.
In Jesus name, Amen!