Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.
Children find many ways to amuse themselves. Sometimes they play church. Acting out what they have seen and experienced in worship services.
It’s harmless fun. But here the Teacher condemns adults who play act at church. This isn’t harmless, it’s hypocrisy!
The Teacher lets His students know that nothing is hidden from God. What men try to conceal from others will be revealed. Ultimately, every religious actor will be unmasked.
Playing church to look good before others is pointless. God sees all. He knows what is done in secret. What is in the heart!
God is prescient. He even knows every little sparrow. In fact - the very hairs of your head are all numbered.
God knows everything about everyone! Jesus understands this might be discouraging - even frightening - because not everything we do or think is good.
That’s why the Teacher says - Don't be afraid.
God doesn’t use this information against us. If we’re not playing church, that is! If we’re not attempting to wear a religious mask to hide our faults instead of confessing our need for Him!
I tell you, whoever acknowledges me before men, the Son of Man will also acknowledge him before the angels of God. But he who disowns me before men will be disowned before the angels of God.
Interesting that he doesn't seem too concerned about them trampling one another! I guess hypocrisy was a greater problem than being trampled on! However, this does show us the desire of the people there to get close to Jesus.
ReplyDeleteWould we be that eager to hear?
Are we that eager to be close to Jesus?
How much do we truly desire to listen to the teacher?