Daily Word Of God
Matthew 23:1-3, 8-12
Addressing the crowds and his disciples Jesus said, ‘The scribes and the Pharisees occupy the chair of Moses. You must therefore do and observe what they tell you; but do not be guided by what they do, since they do not practise what they preach.
‘You, however, must not allow yourselves to be called Rabbi, since you have only one Master, and you are all brothers. You must call no one on earth your father, since you have only one Father, and he is in heaven. Nor must you allow yourselves to be called teachers, for you have only one Teacher, the Christ.
‘The greatest among you must be your servant. Anyone who raises himself up will be humbled, and anyone who humbles himself will be raised up.’
Today's Pointers on God's Word
As you read the passage what words, phases or meanings caught your attention?
- We must not simply use Bible quotations to put others off from following Jesus, e.g. by imposing rules on them. External “holiness” is hypocrisy if we do not practice what we preach.
- Strife to have more Christ-like qualities of humility, forgiveness and love in your daily living when serving the community. Do you look for recognition in your services?
- Self-centeredness leads to pride which prevents the Holy Spirit from working in us. Be open to the Spirit and let God work through us.