Matthew 24:29-31 The Rapture

"But immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will fall from the sky, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. “And then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky with power and great glory. “And He will send forth His angels with a great trumpet and they will gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of the sky to the other." [Matthew 24:29-31 NASB]

There are a couple of things to keep in mind when reading this passage. First, it is intended to prepare Jesus' disciples (which includes us) for the end times. Jesus isn't giving us any information that doesn't pertain to us. Second, everything that happens in this passage happens after the Tribulation.

He said, "they will gather together His elect from the four winds," which is an apt description of the rapture.

I know there are some churches that don't teach about the rapture, or deny that it is in the Bible. Lets look at a couple of verses. 

"For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore comfort one another with these words." [1 Thessalonians 4:15-18 NASB]

"Behold, I tell you a mystery; we will not all sleep, but we will all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet; for the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed." [1 Corinthians 15:51-52 NASB]

So the concept of being changed in a moment, and caught up to meet the Lord in the air is a scriptural teaching. As for the word "rapture", it is not found in most English translations. It is a theological term derived from the Latin "raptura", and means, "to be caught up" (see 1 Thessalonians 4:17).

One of the big questions regarding the rapture is, "when will it happen?" The three main schools of thought are pre-trib, mid-trib, and post-trib. Meaning we will be caught up to meet Jesus either before, during, or after the tribulation.

Paul wrote:

"Now we request you, brethren, with regard to the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him, that you not be quickly shaken from your composure or be disturbed either by a spirit or a message or a letter as if from us, to the effect that the day of the Lord has come. Let no one in any way deceive you, for it will not come unless the apostasy comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction, who opposes and exalts himself above every so-called god or object of worship, so that he takes his seat in the temple of God, displaying himself as being God." [2 Thessalonians 2:1-4 NASB]

This is a description of the abomination of desolation that Jesus mentioned earlier in the chapter. The man of lawlessness is the Antichrist. We know from Daniel's prophecies that this event takes place in the middle of the seven years, and that the rapture will take place after this event.

I think one of the stumbling blocks to understanding is the definition of "the great tribulation". Many, if not most, evangelical preachers define the tribulation as encompassing the entire seven year period of Daniel's prophecy. I disagree.

The seven years will begin with a treaty that will bring unprecedented peace to the Middle East. In the middle of the seven years, the man of lawlessness will be revealed, "then" Jesus says, "there will be a great tribulation, such as has not occurred since the beginning of the world until now, nor ever will." [Matthew 24:21 NASB]

How long will the tribulation last? I don't know. Long enough for many Christians to be martyred. There is a passage in Revelation that mirrors Jesus' words. 

"I looked when He broke the sixth seal, and there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth made of hair, and the whole moon became like blood; and the stars of the sky fell to the earth, as a fig tree casts its unripe figs when shaken by a great wind. The sky was split apart like a scroll when it is rolled up, and every mountain and island were moved out of their places. Then the kings of the earth and the great men and the commanders and the rich and the strong and every slave and free man hid themselves in the caves and among the rocks of the mountains; and they said to the mountains and to the rocks, “Fall on us and hide us from the presence of Him who sits on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb; for the great day of their wrath has come, and who is able to stand?”" [Revelation 6:12-17 NASB]

1 Thessalonians says that the Lord will appear to catch us up to be with Him. In this Revelation passage people are hiding in caves and under rocks (bad idea during an earthquake) to hide themselves from the the presence of the Lord. 

Immediately after, in chapter seven, we are told, "After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no one could count, from every nation and all tribes and peoples and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, and palm branches were in their hands;" [Revelation 7:9 NASB] Then, "These are the ones who come out of the great tribulation, and they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb." [Revelation 7:14 NASB]

While the rapture event is not described in Revelation, the tribulation saints appear in Heaven immediately after the events that mirror Jesus' description.

Revelation goes on to describe the wrath of God poured out on the earth, until Jesus comes again. The tribulation has ended, and the wrath of God has begun.

To summarize, the rapture is an event prophesied in the Bible. I believe it will take place after the tribulation, at some unknown time after the mid-point of Daniels's 70th week of years, and before the wrath of God is poured out on the earth.

A Christians, we need to be prepared for the Lord's return. We also need to be prepared to endure tribulation and die for His sake. Even now, there are many Christians in the world who are being persecuted for their faith, to the point of death. They are choosing to die, rather than give up their faith in Jesus. Would we do the same? Let us ask ourselves, seeking the Lord, "Is my faith strong enough to face persecution and death?"

Matthew 24:15-28 Great Tribulation

"“Therefore when you see the ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION which was spoken of through Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place (let the reader understand), then those who are in Judea must flee to the mountains. “Whoever is on the housetop must not go down to get the things out that are in his house. “Whoever is in the field must not turn back to get his cloak. “But woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing babies in those days! “But pray that your flight will not be in the winter, or on a Sabbath. “For then there will be a great tribulation, such as has not occurred since the beginning of the world until now, nor ever will. “Unless those days had been cut short, no life would have been saved; but for the sake of the elect those days will be cut short. “Then if anyone says to you, ‘Behold, here is the Christ,’ or ‘There He is,’ do not believe him. “For false Christs and false prophets will arise and will show great signs and wonders, so as to mislead, if possible, even the elect. “Behold, I have told you in advance. “So if they say to you, ‘Behold, He is in the wilderness,’ do not go out, or, ‘Behold, He is in the inner rooms,’ do not believe them. “For just as the lightning comes from the east and flashes even to the west, so will the coming of the Son of Man be. “Wherever the corpse is, there the vultures will gather." [Matthew 24:15-28 NASB]

Jesus is talking about the time that we call the Great Tribulation.

He refers to the prophecy of Daniel, "Forces from him will arise, desecrate the sanctuary fortress, and do away with the regular sacrifice. And they will set up the abomination of desolation." [Daniel 11:31 NASB] Daniel had prophesied about seventy weeks of years to fulfill all things. He prophesied 69 weeks of years from the issuing of a decree to rebuild Jerusalem to the coming of Messiah. That is 483 years from the time Artaxerxes issued the decree for Nehemiah to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem to the time of Jesus.

At the end of the 69th week, Messiah would be killed for others, and not for Himself, and Israel would be destroyed. This was fulfilled when Jesus was crucified (thank God He rose again from the dead!) and Rome destroyed Israel and burned the temple.

We can see Daniel's prophecies fulfilled through historical events. We therefore know that there is a pause between the 69th and 70th week of years (because the 70th week hasn't yet been fulfilled.) Daniel describes the 70th week, "And he will make a firm covenant with the many for one week, but in the middle of the week he will put a stop to sacrifice and grain offering; and on the wing of abominations will come one who makes desolate, even until a complete destruction, one that is decreed, is poured out on the one who makes desolate." [Daniel 9:27 NASB]

So, in the middle of this seven year period (generally referred to as "the day of the Lord") the abomination of desolation will stand in the holy place. After this will come a time tribulation for Israel and the church such as has never been seen. False prophets and false messiahs will be able to show great signs and miracles. Jesus has said, "At that time many will fall away and will betray one another and hate one another." [Matthew 24:10 NASB]

Why is this important to us? Because Jesus is addressing His disciples (us) to be prepared for that time. Paul said, 

"Now we request you, brethren, with regard to the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him, that you not be quickly shaken from your composure or be disturbed either by a spirit or a message or a letter as if from us, to the effect that the day of the Lord has come. Let no one in any way deceive you, for it will not come unless the apostasy comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction, who opposes and exalts himself above every so-called god or object of worship, so that he takes his seat in the temple of God, displaying himself as being God." [2 Thessalonians 2:1-4 NASB]

In other words the rapture will not happen until after these events take place. Those believers who are alive at the coming of the Lord will be witness to the abomination of desolation, and will see the identity of the Antichrist revealed.

The teaching that the rapture will take place before all of this happens makes for warm and happy feelings. But Jesus never promised that we would avoid tribulation (just the opposite). It is no wonder that "many will fall away". If they believe they will be raptured before the tribulation, then find themselves in the midst of it, their faith will be shaken.

I don't know if the Lord will return in your lifetime or not, but either way, be prepared.

Matthew 24:3-14 Don't Be Misled

As He was sitting on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things happen, and what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?” And Jesus answered and said to them, “See to it that no one misleads you. “For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will mislead many. “You will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not frightened, for those things must take place, but that is not yet the end. “For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and in various places there will be famines and earthquakes. “But all these things are merely the beginning of birth pangs. “Then they will deliver you to tribulation, and will kill you, and you will be hated by all nations because of My name. “At that time many will fall away and will betray one another and hate one another. “Many false prophets will arise and will mislead many. “Because lawlessness is increased, most people’s love will grow cold. “But the one who endures to the end, he will be saved. “This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come." [Matthew 24:3-14 NASB]

Jesus' public ministry is over. From now on His teaching is reserved only for His disciples. It is worth keeping in mind that everything Jesus teaches from this point on is reserved for His disciples and not for the crowds. His goal is not to convict them of sin, nor to convince them of the reality of the Kingdom, but to prepare His followers. He is speaking to His disciples in front of Him, and to us, and to any who are alive at the time of His coming.

After Jesus predicted the destruction of the temple, the disciples asked about the end of the age. Being Jews in that age, the temple was the centerpiece in their lives, as much as anyone else. In their minds, the destruction of the temple must coincide with the end of all things. We know from history that they were mistaken. Jesus doesn't correct this misapprehension, but rather, he directly answers their question.

Before saying anything else, Jesus warns us to not be misled. Over the centuries there have been many false prophets arise, perverting the scriptures, and opposing Christ.

The most prominent false prophet was Mohammed. As a young boy he heard the Jews relate stories from the Bible. Because of his hatred for the Jews and Christians, Mohammed twisted the scriptures to suit himself. For example, he retold the story of Abraham taking his to Mount Moriah to sacrifice him. Only instead of Isaac, Mohammed said he took Ishmael. The quran repeatedly says that Allah has no son.

A more recent voice was that of Joseph Smith who, through his "visions" rewrote Christianity. The Mormon views are more subtle that Islam. Most Mormons will say that they are a Christian denomination, and believe in the Bible, salvation, and in the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. However, they believe the Bible is imperfect, and can be improved upon by subsequent revelation (i.e. Joseph Smith's "visions".) They believe God is not a triune God (or Trinity), but three distinct people. The Father was once a man who ascended to perfection, and each one of us can also become perfect and ascend to godhood. Salvation is not by grace, but by a combination of Jesus' atonement and legalistic good works.

A common theme among most any false religion is to attack the Trinity. The last thing Satan wants is for you to know who God is, so he strikes at God's identity. Some of the deceptions are blatant, while others are more subtle. They may deny God altogether, or teach that the Father, Son and Holy Spirit are three separate gods.

It is so important to study the scriptures and know for yourself who God is, and what the Bible teaches about Him. Don't let yourself be misled.

False prophets, wars, rumors of wars, famines and natural disasters. These have been around since the time that Jesus walked the earth, and will continue. But no matter how bad things seem, these things are not the end.

Take heart and pray for strength. Things are going to get much worse before the end.

Matthew 24:1-2 Destruction of the Temple

"Jesus came out from the temple and was going away when His disciples came up to point out the temple buildings to Him. And He said to them, “Do you not see all these things? Truly I say to you, not one stone here will be left upon another, which will not be torn down.”" [Matthew 24:1-2 NASB]

The Jerusalem temple was one of the wonders of the world. By the time it was finished, it was about 500 yards long and 400 yards wide. 

After the fall of Solomon's temple, the second temple was built by Zerubbabel and Ezra. Herod the Great expanded upon and improved the temple. He began construction in 19 BC, using a work force of 10,000 men for eight years to complete the basic structure. Actual construction continued after his death, and was finished in 63 AD. That's 82 years of construction.

The stones were enormous; fifty feet long, twenty-four broad, and sixteen thick, and so heavy that modern cranes and construction equipment would not be able to lift them. An engineering marvel, it is not known how they were lifted into place. The details are lost to history. They were cut so precisely that they fit together without mortar, and so tight that a knife could not be slipped between them. The stones were a gleaming white marble, and much of it was plated with gold.

About 70 AD, only seven years after the temple was completed, the Jews rebelled against Rome. The emperor, Titus, sent soldiers to quash the rebellion. The last holdout of rebellious Jews, hid themselves in the temple, since it was the strongest and most fortified building in Israel.

Titus had given orders that the temple was not to be harmed, as he admired the architecture and beauty of the building. But it is said that a drunken soldier shot a flaming arrow that ignited in the temple. The fire spread, burning to death all of those who had fled there for safety. The fire was so hot that the gold plating melted and seeped between the stones. In order to get to the gold, the Romans tore down the temple stone by stone, so that not one was left standing.

For over 1,000 years the temple was the center of Jewish society. What was to be a place sanctified and reserved for the worship of God, became a marketplace, and a refuge for corrupt leaders. That which was designed to bring people together for the worship of God, took Gods' place in the minds and hearts of many.

When Solomon built the first temple, the glory of God filled the temple. Ezekiel saw, in a vision, the glory of God depart the first temple before its destruction. When Jesus left the second temple for the last time, he was - in a sense - the glory of God leaving the temple, and predicting its destruction.

In the Christian world, we can find cathedrals - both ancient and modern - that are wondrous to behold. Marvels of architecture and beauty, often ornamented with stained glass, jewels and gold. The example of the temple should remind us that a building is just a building. There is nothing inherently holy about a church, cathedral, or Vatican.

God doesn't live inside a building. He lives in the hearts of those who enter the building. If the hearts of the people are pure, holy and seeking after God, then God will be there in their midst. If the hearts of the people are corrupt, then God will not be present, regardless of location.

It is okay for God's people to have a nice place to come together and worship, but let us never forget that it is Jesus who brings us together and is worthy of our worship. A building is just a building.

Matthew 23:37-39 Sorrowful Wrath

"Jerusalem, Jerusalem, who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, the way a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were unwilling. “Behold, your house is being left to you desolate! “For I say to you, from now on you will not see Me until you say, ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!’" [Matthew 23:37-39 NASB]

Jesus told them, "From now on you will not see Me until you say, ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!" In fact, this was Jesus' last visit to the temple. He continued His teaching on the mount of Olives, and in the upper room where he held Passover. The next time Jesus steps on the temple mount, it will be at His return when He will be hailed by all as King.

Jesus has just pronounced His scathing eight woes against the scribes and Pharisees. Throughout His ministry, when dealing with all manner of sinners, Jesus has shown Himself to be loving and compassionate. With the hypocrites, Jesus shows Himself to be a God of judgment and wrath. Yet even in His wrath, He is sorrowful, wanting them all to be saved, though He knows that they are not willing to be.

Of all things, I believe it saddens God whenever anyone refuses the salvation that He so freely offers, but choose instead to mock the gospel, and the righteous standards contained within the scriptures.

"Know this first of all, that in the last days mockers will come with their mocking, following after their own lusts, and saying, “Where is the promise of His coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all continues just as it was from the beginning of creation.” ...But by His word the present heavens and earth are being reserved for fire, kept for the day of judgment and destruction of ungodly men. But do not let this one fact escape your notice, beloved, that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years like one day. The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance." [2 Peter 3:3-9 NASB]

Whenever I read the news, I realize that the America I grew up in is not the same America I live in today. We are generally moving from valuing godliness to valuing perversion and licentiousness. Not only do men and women openly sin, but they take pride in their sin, and encourage others to join with them.

God is openly opposed and mocked in all levels of government. We used to start each day of public school with a prayer. Now teachers are forbidden by law to pray with a student, and even students are opposed if they gather to pray for themselves.

There is a growing animosity towards the gospel. Businesses are being targeted by local governments because the owner is a Christian. Atheists choose to go to a Christian owned business and insist that the owner perform a service that will violate his conscience. If he complies, the atheists win by forcing the Christian to violate his principles. If he doesn't comply, they take him to court to destroy his business.

Of course there are a number of churches that meet no opposition of any kind. They preach a social message that ignores the gospel of salvation and instead teach that men are noble and full of potential. They use terms like "self-realization" or "self-actualization". Emphasis on "self". They ignore scriptures that say, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God," [Romans 3:23 NASB] Or Jesus' words, "If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me." [Matthew 16:24 NASB]

Instead of putting our self first, we should be considering others first. "Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves;" [Philippians 2:3 NASB]

We need to pray for our nation. We need to repent on its behalf.

Heavenly Father, we have strayed far from You. We are traveling down a road that leads to destruction. We have become a sinful and rebellious nation. Lord, please have mercy on us. Forgive us of our sinful ways, and lead us into righteousness. Turn us around, so that we become a people dedicated to You. I pray that Your Spirit will move among the people, and also through our leaders in government, drawing them to You. We give you thanks and praise. In Jesus name.

Matthew 23:29-36 Self-righteousness

"Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you build the tombs of the prophets and adorn the monuments of the righteous, and say, ‘If we had been living in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partners with them in shedding the blood of the prophets.’ “So you testify against yourselves, that you are sons of those who murdered the prophets. “Fill up, then, the measure of the guilt of your fathers. “You serpents, you brood of vipers, how will you escape the sentence of hell? “Therefore, behold, I am sending you prophets and wise men and scribes; some of them you will kill and crucify, and some of them you will scourge in your synagogues, and persecute from city to city, so that upon you may fall the guilt of all the righteous blood shed on earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zechariah, the son of Berechiah, whom you murdered between the temple and the altar. “Truly I say to you, all these things will come upon this generation." [Matthew 23:29-36 NASB]

The self righteous don't see their own sin. They said, "we would never have persecuted the prophets." But they persecuted John the Baptist. They persecuted Jesus, and had Him crucified. They continued to persecute the apostles, disciples and followers of Jesus, going from town to town all over the world.

Notice Jesus said, "I am sending you prophets and wise men and scribes." In speaking to the Jewish leaders, He is using familiar terms to refer to His disciples.

Jesus worded it in the form of a question, but the meaning was emphatically clear. "You are going to hell, and you will not escape. Their sentence has already been passed.

It's easy for us to look back and say, "I would never have done that." I think about Peter on the night Jesus was betrayed. Peter had said, "Even though all may fall away because of You, I will never fall away." [Matthew 26:33 NASB] But just a few hours later, Peter denied Him. Could I have denied Jesus if I were in Peter's place? Yes. It is within my nature to give in to fear, and to deny Jesus. My only hope is that, if faced with that choice, the Holy Spirit would empower and embolden me to stand up and confess my Lord. Without the Holy Spirit, I would surely fail. I cannot judge Peter.

I think it's that way whenever we are judgmental. In our self-righteousness, we can see sin in others, but overlook the sin in ourselves. Paul said, "Therefore you have no excuse, everyone of you who passes judgment, for in that which you judge another, you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things." [Romans 2:1 NASB]

We need to examine our hearts, and ask the Lord to reveal them to us.

Ask yourself, "Is there anything in which I judge others?" Do you make snide, sarcastic remarks about others? Do you think or say "What an idiot" (or something similar)? Do you shake your head in annoyance?

The poor man who says of the rich, "What a snob" is actually acting as a snob in reverse by rejecting a rich person on account of his money. The rich man who looks down on the poor as "low class" is projecting a "low class" attitude, condemning him for has lack of opportunity instead of being gracious.

I get annoyed when people step in front of me in a line, or when a driver pulls out in front of me. I want to be first. I want preferred treatment. And that's the problem. Instead of wanting to be preferred, I should prefer others before myself - not grudgingly, but gladly. We have been taught, "Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves;" [Philippians 2:3 NASB]

The thing that annoys us the most in others may well be the thing that we have hidden in our own hearts. Ask God to reveal it to you. Seek His forgiveness for whatever it is that you have been holding back, and for the hypocrisy. And trust God to take it away.

Matthew 23:27-28 Whitewashed Tombs

"Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs which on the outside appear beautiful, but inside they are full of dead men’s bones and all uncleanness. So you, too, outwardly appear righteous to men, but inwardly you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness." [Matthew 23:27-28 NASB]

Jesus was referring to the practice of whitewashing the tombs before the feast of Passover, so that the city would look good for all of the people who were visiting Jerusalem for the celebration.

A Pharisee would never touch a dead body, or its bones because that would make them ceremonially unclean. A Pharisee could boast that he had gone his entire life without being unclean.

For Jesus to compare them to whitewashed tombs is to say that they, the Pharisees, were full of dead men's bones, so that they exist in a perpetual state of uncleanness. He could not have devised a more cutting comparison.

Jesus is telling them that all of their ceremonial cleanings, sacrifices, and abstinence are worthless because they give the appearance of righteousness, but don't change the impure heart.

I have known men with great willpower. If they want something in life, they find a way and get it. If they see something in themselves that they don't like, they squash it. Yet they continue to deny God. So no matter how much they appear to be in command of themselves, it is only an illusion.

There is a principle in the Bible found in Ephesians:

"Lay aside the old self, which is being corrupted in accordance with the lusts of deceit, and that you be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth. Therefore, laying aside falsehood, speak truth each one of you with his neighbor, for we are members of one another. Be angry, and yet do not sin, do not let the sun go down on your anger, and do not give the devil an opportunity. He who steals must steal no longer; but rather he must labor, performing with his own hands what is good, so that he will have something to share with one who has need." [Ephesians 4:22-28 NASB]

The principle is to replace undesirable behavior with desirable behavior. I have heard this preached in churches, and repeated by secular psychologists. But there is a problem with the way this is generally taught. We are told to exercise our own will to replace bad habits with good habits. Put this way it is just another form of trying to work for your own sanctification. 

The use of willpower to control your behavior is an attempt to follow the Law, and is an act of the flesh. The more your flesh tries to make you holy, the stronger your flesh becomes, and less holy. Even if you manage to change your behavior, you haven't change who you are on the inside.

We become more holy in the same way that we were saved. By the grace of God, and faith in Him. 

The principle is sound, "put off the old and put on the new", but only within the context of faith and grace. If I were an habitual liar, I could tell myself, "don't lie, but tell the truth". Even if I exert a great deal of willpower to tell the truth, my nature will still be that of a liar. But if I stop trying to change myself, and pray to God to change me into His image, the Spirit of Truth that lives within me will change my nature from "liar" to "truth teller".

God doesn't want you to change yourself. He wants to be the One to change you. He wants to renew your mind and make you to be like Him.

"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect." [Romans 12:2 NASB]

Matthew 23:25-26 Inside the Cup

"Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you clean the outside of the cup and of the dish, but inside they are full of robbery and self-indulgence. “You blind Pharisee, first clean the inside of the cup and of the dish, so that the outside of it may become clean also." [Matthew 23:25-26 NASB]

The Pharisees were like the cup. They gave the appearance of goodness and holiness, but their heart was far from God. It is not always easy for us to tell the difference, because "God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." [1 Samuel 16:7 NASB]

Sunday morning church is a lot like Facebook. We post pretty pictures of happy people, all dressed up with their hair brushed and their smiles on. We never post pictures of ourselves just crawling out of bed, or in mid-argument with our spouse. We never post videos of ourselves throwing a tantrum because we didn't get our way. And we do our best to hide the shameful acts that we don't want anyone to see.

It's the same with church; we smile and act like a saint when we are at a church meeting. But they don't see what you are like at home.

If you are to live a life free of hypocrisy, then your behavior when you're at home and nobody is watching should be the same as your public behavior in a Sunday morning church service. Even the most vile sinner can maintain a facade for a couple of hours, when in public. But the facade must eventually fall, because the inner man must be revealed.

Jesus said, "But the things that proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and those defile the man. For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, slanders." [Matthew 15:18-19 NASB]

I recently met a church leader in a small group setting. Less than five minutes into the meeting, he let slip the F-bomb. He laughed about and said, "It's okay, we're all men here." Essentially what he said was (my paraphrase), "I can prove I'm a real man because real men cuss".  I didn't judge his salvation. Although, by his words, he revealed a weakness in his sanctification. Perhaps he was a new Christian just come from an environment where profanity was expected (in which case he should not have been in a leadership position). By the way, I'm not just being prudish. The Bible teaches, "Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear." [Ephesians 4:29 NASB]

The point is, whether it be words or deeds, you can't just clean up your act and expect to be clean in God's sight. God looks at the heart, whether it be for judgment; "But because of your stubbornness and unrepentant heart you are storing up wrath for yourself in the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God," [Romans 2:5 NASB] Or salvation; "If you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved;" [Romans 10:9 NASB]

It is hard for us to know our own hearts. We are capable of great self-deceit. I pray with Paul, "that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints," [Ephesians 1:18 NASB]

I urge you to pray that God will reveal your heart to you. Be open to His Spirit, and allow Him to conform you to His image.

Matthew 23:23-24 Tithing

"Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cummin, and have neglected the weightier provisions of the law: justice and mercy and faithfulness; but these are the things you should have done without neglecting the others. “You blind guides, who strain out a gnat and swallow a camel!" [Matthew 23:23-24 NASB]

Tithing was a part of the Law of Moses. "You shall surely tithe all the produce from what you sow, which comes out of the field every year." [Deuteronomy 14:22 NASB] The Pharisees were so diligent in their legalism that they would even tithe out of their little herb gardens (which almost everyone had).

In comparing their tithing to swallowing a gnat, Jesus evokes a common visual. It was the practice of the Pharisees to strain their wine through a gauze to keep out the gnats because if they accidentally swallowed a gnat while drinking the wine, they would become unclean. But neglecting the "weightier provisions of the law," is like swallowing a camel.

The Pharisees could quote all 613 laws plus the oral tradition that they kept. They were perfectionists when it came to keeping the letter of the Law - except when tradition allowed them to break it. For example - 

"And He answered and said to them, “Why do you yourselves transgress the commandment of God for the sake of your tradition? “For God said, ‘HONOR YOUR FATHER AND MOTHER,’ and, ‘HE WHO SPEAKS EVIL OF FATHER OR MOTHER IS TO BE PUT TO DEATH.’ “But you say, ‘Whoever says to his father or mother, “Whatever I have that would help you has been given to God,” he is not to honor his father or his mother.’ And by this you invalidated the word of God for the sake of your tradition." [Matthew 15:3-6 NASB]

In their legalism, the Pharisees kept the outward appearance of the Law. But Jesus was speaking of the heart: "justice and mercy and faithfulness." 

Jesus told the Pharisees, "these are the things you should have done without neglecting the others." In tithing, they were following the Law of Moses, which is what they should have been doing. But in keeping the letter of the Law, they neglected the spirit and intent of the Law.

As Christians, we are not under the Law. "For sin shall not be master over you, for you are not under law but under grace." [Romans 6:14 NASB] But when we start following a set of rules to govern our behavior, we create our own law. "For when Gentiles who do not have the Law do instinctively the things of the Law, these, not having the Law, are a law to themselves," [Romans 2:14 NASB]

So, when we follow a set of church doctrines and rules, we are placing ourselves under a law instead of grace. Some of the rules in a legalistic church include what kind of clothes to wear, requirements to tithe, designating the pulpit and/or communion table as "holy", and reserved for the use of only a few chosen people, crossing yourself and/or bowing when entering the sanctuary, and so on. 

The list is endless, but there are some principles at work. Certain behaviors are required of the members. Certain people are elevated, and given greater status or privileges than others. The facilities are more important than the people who use them. Emphasis is placed on enforcing church rules and doctrine rather than grace.

In many churches, some provisions of the Old Covenant Law are taught as Christian requirements. Such as the ten commandments. Although the law of the Sabbath is conveniently redefined as the first day instead of the seventh.

The law of tithing is also taught as a requirement in many Christian churches. But if this one provision of the Law is a requirement, then why not all of them, such as animal sacrifice?

When Paul wrote to the Galatians, he addressed the Old Covenant requirement to be circumcised. He said, "And I testify again to every man who receives circumcision, that he is under obligation to keep the whole Law." [Galatians 5:3 NASB] The principle holds that if you tithe as an obligation, then you are obliged to keep the whole law.

We are not under law but under grace. We do not have to fulfill the requirements of the Old Covenant because Jesus has done that for us, and we are under a New Covenant.

"FOR THIS IS THE COVENANT THAT I WILL MAKE WITH THE HOUSE OF ISRAELAFTER THOSE DAYS, SAYS THE LORD:I WILL PUT MY LAWS INTO THEIR MINDS,AND I WILL WRITE THEM ON THEIR HEARTS.AND I WILL BE THEIR GOD,AND THEY SHALL BE MY PEOPLE. “AND THEY SHALL NOT TEACH EVERYONE HIS FELLOW CITIZEN,AND EVERYONE HIS BROTHER, SAYING, ‘KNOW THE LORD,’FOR ALL WILL KNOW ME, FROM THE LEAST TO THE GREATEST OF THEM." [Hebrews 8:10-11 NASB]

The only requirement we have is to obey the Holy Spirit who lives within us. That doesn't mean that we ignore the Bible. It is the inspired Word of God. From it, we learn who God is, and our relationship to Him. To the Christian, the Bible is made to bring us closer into relationship with Him, and not as a legal document.

These are the things God loves: "justice and mercy and faithfulness". These are matters of the heart, not requirement. They grow out of a spirit that is united with the Spirit of God.

Matthew 23:16-22 Oaths

“Woe to you, blind guides, who say, ‘Whoever swears by the temple, that is nothing; but whoever swears by the gold of the temple is obligated.’ “You fools and blind men! Which is more important, the gold or the temple that sanctified the gold? “And, ‘Whoever swears by the altar, that is nothing, but whoever swears by the offering on it, he is obligated.’ “You blind men, which is more important, the offering, or the altar that sanctifies the offering? “Therefore, whoever swears by the altar, swears both by the altar and by everything on it. “And whoever swears by the temple, swears both by the temple and by Him who dwells within it. “And whoever swears by heaven, swears both by the throne of God and by Him who sits upon it." [Matthew 23:16-22 NASB]

According to the tradition of the Pharisees, oaths were completely and irrevocably binding - if they were binding oaths. Any oaths made in the name of God were binding, but others were not. So the practice was to swear an oath by the Temple, which was not a binding oath. Then they could break the oath without penalty.

By using these duplicitous practices, they could give the front of religious devotion, while lying, cheating and stealing. Jesus has previously said, "“Again, you have heard that the ancients were told, ‘You shall not make false vows, but shall fulfill your vows to the Lord.’ “But I say to you, make no oath at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God, or by the earth, for it is the footstool of His feet, or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great king. “Nor shall you make an oath by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black. “But let your statement be, ‘Yes, yes’ or ‘No, no’; anything beyond these is of evil." [Matthew 5:33-37 NASB]

A Christian's life should be so far above reproach that he can simply make a statement and be believed. It used to be the practice in court to place a hand on the Bible, and swear "to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help me God." The anti-Christian lobby had the Bible and "so help me God" removed, because it was considered discriminatory. For once, I agree with their result, if not their motives. If we follow Christ, our word alone should be evidence that we are telling the truth, without swearing an oath.

It should go without saying, although Paul said it anyway, "Do not lie to one another, since you laid aside the old self with its evil practices," [Colossians 3:9 NASB]

Whenever you lie, you are giving authority to Satan in your life. Jesus said, "You are of your father the devil, and you want to do the desires of your father. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth because there is no truth in him. Whenever he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own nature, for he is a liar and the father of lies." [John 8:44 NASB] Whenever you speak a lie, you are taking on the nature of the devil.

It should be our goal to lay aside falsehood, and speak the truth. Paul wrote, "if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught in Him, just as truth is in Jesus, that, in reference to your former manner of life, you lay aside the old self, which is being corrupted in accordance with the lusts of deceit, and that you be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth. Therefore, laying aside falsehood, speak truth each one of you with his neighbor, for we are members of one another." [Ephesians 4:21-25 NASB]

James echoed Jesus' words when he said, "But above all, my brethren, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or with any other oath; but your yes is to be yes, and your no, no, so that you may not fall under judgment." [James 5:12 NASB]

Matthew 23:15 Proselytes

"Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites, because you travel around on sea and land to make one proselyte; and when he becomes one, you make him twice as much a son of hell as yourselves." [Matthew 23:15 NASB]

The time from just before to just after Christ' time on earth, marked the greatest era of Jewish evangelism in history. They went to great lengths to convert Gentile pagans to Jewish monotheism. The problem is that they didn't preach faith in God, but a formalistic adherence to the Law. This was a Law that the Jews were unable to keep (thus the continual sacrifices for sin).

These proselytes were taught about tithing, ritual cleansing, adherence to the Sabbath, and such. But they were never taught the weightier matters, such as faith, righteousness, and mercy. How could they learn these traits when the Pharisees never modeled them?

Jesus condemned these false missionaries as well as the people who were converted by them.

When we are talking to non-Christians about Jesus, it is important that we don't talk about our religious beliefs, or doctrinal differences. Unbelievers don't need to know the difference between free will and predestination. The timing of the rapture - pre, mid, or post tribulation - isn't their concern. Paul said, "For I determined to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified." [1 Corinthians 2:2 NASB]

Jesus should be the focus of our message. How He was born of a virgin, lived a perfect sinless life, died on the cross to pay the penalty for our sin, then rose again on the third day. He lives today, seated at the right hand of the Father, and He lives in our hearts through His Spirit.

Salvation is found, not by joining a religion, nor by being good enough. On the contrary, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus;" [Romans 3:23-24 NASB] "Justified" simply means that our sins are forgiven. We have been tried in God's court and found "Not Guilty". "Redemption" means that whatever guilt we might have had was paid for by Jesus.

He said, "that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved;" [Romans 10:9 NASB]

This, in a nutshell, is the Gospel. 

Our concern shouldn't be the number of people who walk through the church door, but the salvation of their souls.

Matthew 23:14 Widow's Houses

"Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites, because you devour widows’ houses, and for a pretense you make long prayers; therefore you will receive greater condemnation." [Matthew 23:14 NASB]

The Pharisees would move themselves and their attendants into the houses of these widows, commandeering the home. They would also use guile and deceit to become stewards of the home, and having gained full legal rights, they would sell the house out from under the widow, pocketing the prophet. This was all considered "good stewardship" in the name of religion. In the midst of their evil dealing, they would put on a holy front with their long prayers.

This is the same as some televangelists on TV who promise God's blessings if you will send your money to them. "The more you send, the bigger the blessing".

I once had a neighbor who was a widow. She didn't get out much, so she would sit at home and watch religious programming on the TV. She was particularly taken with one minister, and, being in a vulnerable state, sent him her savings. The only "blessing" she got back was a tax receipt. While she should have been able to live comfortably and independently for many more years, she lost everything, and depended on her children to take care of her every need.

I don't watch a lot of religious programming, having a low tolerance for showmanship in the pulpit, but I have seen enough to want to avoid it.

There are some preachers who have a broad popularity, not only in the Christian community, but also in the world. Think about why that is.

Jesus said, "If the world hates you, you know that it has hated Me before it hated you." [John 15:18 NASB] And Paul said, "but we preach Christ crucified, to Jews a stumbling block and to Gentiles foolishness," [1 Corinthians 1:23 NASB]

If the world loves the message a preacher is preaching, How much of Jesus is in that message?

One of the world's most popular preachers these day is Joel Osteen. I even heard good things about him from someone I know who is generally antagonistic towards anything Christian. Curious, I tuned into his show. What I heard was a half hour commercial for his "ministry", an long appeal for money, and a promise of wealth for those who "sow their seeds". I did not once hear the name of Jesus.

The "prosperity doctrine" is popular because it promises wealth to the believers. But it seems like the only ones becoming wealthy are the prosperity preachers who prey on the weak and vulnerable. They point to there own wealth as proof of God's blessing, somehow equating wealth with holiness.

By that reasoning, Elon Musk should be about the holiest man in America, but I have never heard any evidence that He has any kind of relationship with God.

The Pharisees were wealthy, and put a great deal of money into the temple treasury. But it was the poor widow who received Jesus' praise.

Money isn't evil, although "the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil, and some by longing for it have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs." [1 Timothy 6:10 NASB]

If you have a good business sense, and can make money, that's fine. Use it for the glory of God, and to help others in need. But don't fall into the trap of thinking you have greater faith than the person who needs help.

The rewards you seek should be in heaven, and not in this life, "for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." [Matthew 6:21 NASB]

Matthew 23:13 Shutting Off the Kingdom

"But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites, because you shut off the kingdom of heaven from people; for you do not enter in yourselves, nor do you allow those who are entering to go in." [Matthew 23:13 NASB]

 The Greek word, "hypocrite",  was originally used to refer to a stage actor. By calling the scribes and Pharisees "hypocrites", Jesus is saying that they are they are just playing a role, pretending to be something that they are not.

Here and in the following verses, Jesus offers eight woes, with accusations, against the scribes and Pharisees. What is remarkable about this passage isn't that Jesus condemns hypocrisy, but that the tone of His condemnation shows heartfelt anger. Whenever Jesus confronted sinners, he was gentle, offering grace, and leading to repentance. But when it came to religious hypocrisy, He proved to have a spine of steel.

His first condemnation of the religious leaders is that they "shut off the kingdom of heaven from people". From the very beginning of Jesus' ministry, the opposed the gospel. They did everything in their power to discredit Jesus and His followers.

As keepers of the Law, they knew the scriptures; they could quote the Messianic prophecies. The scribes and Pharisees should have been the ones to point out that Daniel's seventy weeks were winding down. They should have recognized that all of the prophecies concerning the Messiah were being fulfilled. But they chose their traditions over truth.

Even worse, not only did they not follow Jesus themselves, they did all they could to influence others to not follow Him as well.

People are the same today.

I know a pastor who made the bold, scriptural statement that not only is salvation by grace, without works, but sanctification is also by grace, apart from works. He went on to teach that you cannot become more holy by keeping rules and traditions, but by being led by the Spirit of God.

"Are you so foolish? Having begun by the Spirit, are you now being perfected by the flesh?" [Galatians 3:3 NASB]

 "But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh." [Galatians 5:16 NASB]

Some in the church received the message with joy. Others lashed out. They argued that without rules and commandments, we won't know right from wrong. They claimed it was an open door to licentiousness. Their arguments might have some merit if not for the promise of the Holy Spirit.

In one breath, they accused the pastor of hyper-spirituality. In the next, they accused him of sin. Leaders rose up to oppose the pastor and any who agreed with him. After a campaign of gossip and accusation, more than half of the congregation left the church, choosing tradition over truth.

They didn't deny Jesus, and I don't question their salvation. But they are choosing to not live according to the kingdom of God in this world. They are robbing themselves and others of this joy.

One day, we will stand before the judgement seat of Christ. Will He praise us for faithfully following Him, or will he condemn us for our hypocrisy? Paul said, "Now if any man builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, each man’s work will become evident; for the day will show it because it is to be revealed with fire, and the fire itself will test the quality of each man’s work. If any man’s work which he has built on it remains, he will receive a reward. If any man’s work is burned up, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire." [1 Corinthians 3:12-15 NASB]

Will you face Jesus in joy, or in tears? It's not too late while we yet live to make the choice to live in the freedom of His grace, and to be an encourager of others, not tearing down, but lifting them up.

Matthew 23:1-12 Titles

"Then Jesus spoke to the crowds and to His disciples, saying: “The scribes and the Pharisees have seated themselves in the chair of Moses; therefore all that they tell you, do and observe, but do not do according to their deeds; for they say things and do not do them. “They tie up heavy burdens and lay them on men’s shoulders, but they themselves are unwilling to move them with so much as a finger. “But they do all their deeds to be noticed by men; for they broaden their phylacteries and lengthen the tassels of their garments. “They love the place of honor at banquets and the chief seats in the synagogues, and respectful greetings in the market places, and being called Rabbi by men. “But do not be called Rabbi; for One is your Teacher, and you are all brothers. “Do not call anyone on earth your father; for One is your Father, He who is in heaven. “Do not be called leaders; for One is your Leader, that is, Christ. “But the greatest among you shall be your servant. “Whoever exalts himself shall be humbled; and whoever humbles himself shall be exalted." [Matthew 23:1-12 NASB]

The tradition in the synagogues was for the Rabbi to stand for the reading of the Torah, then he would sit down to expound upon and explain the reading. This seat of honor was called the chair of Moses. When Jesus said "they have seated themselves in the chair of Moses", He provided a visual that the crowd could relate to. With his next words He makes it clear that he is also referring to the symbolic meaning of sitting in the chair of Moses: that they have made themselves to be judges and interpreters of the Law.

But they were like corrupt judges who pass down judgments, but fail to keep the law themselves. It is not the Law that they love, but the position, the power, and the appearance of righteousness that goes with it.

Phylacteries are small leather boxes with scripture in them. The idea of the phylacteries came from the Law of Moses, "You shall therefore impress these words of mine on your heart and on your soul; and you shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontals on your forehead." [Deuteronomy 11:18 NASB] Of course, they were intended to be small and unobtrusive; a reminder to the wearer, not a display of holiness to the observer.

The tassels are also from the Law, "Speak to the sons of Israel, and tell them that they shall make for themselves tassels on the corners of their garments throughout their generations, and that they shall put on the tassel of each corner a cord of blue. “It shall be a tassel for you to look at and remember all the commandments of the LORD, so as to do them and not follow after your own heart and your own eyes, after which you played the harlot, so that you may remember to do all My commandments and be holy to your God." [Numbers 15:38-40 NASB]

And, of course, they loved their titles. As does the church today. We easily condemn the Pharisees because they wanted to be called Rabbi (which literally translates as "My great one"). Protestants condemn Catholics because their priest call themselves "father". But it is no different when protestant preachers call themselves "Reverend" (or one who is revered or worshiped). Or if they really want to be officious, they call themselves "The Right Reverend" or "The Most Reverend" (as if they are saying "I am loved and worshiped more than anyone).

While studying this passage, I read a commentary by one of the high church people who explained away this passage by say that Jesus didn't actually mean that we shouldn't use these titles because we need to distinguish those who rule the flock. He missed the point entirely! Jesus said, "for One is your Teacher, and you are all brothers." No one should rule the church because we are all equally brothers, and God alone rules the church.

Beware of anyone who says that Jesus didn't really mean what He clearly said.

In light of the whole of Scripture, we know that there are good teachers in the church. "And He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers," [Ephesians 4:11 NASB] The difference is taking up the title of "Teacher" vs. fulfilling the role of one who teaches. Not in an exalted role, looking down on others, but as an equal, both giving and taking, teaching and learning.

The position of pastor is an honorable thing. A pastor should be compassionate, one of the people. But when the title of "Pastor" causes you to lord it over others, it is taking what is good and making it offensive. Those who "rule" over their congregation will share the fate of the Pharisees.

But Jesus's words were not only for pastors and leaders. He was also speaking to the crowds. Those who do not hold a position or title in a church are still accountable for how we respond to those who do. He said, "Do not call anyone on earth your father; for One is your Father, He who is in heaven." We are not to revere the ministers nor exalt them higher than any other brother in Christ, even as we respect their ministry.

Remember who we are in Christ. "For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brethren;" [Romans 8:29 NASB] If Jesus calls himself our brother, then none of us should be called master. Our treatment of all, regardless of gifting or position should be the same. "Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor;" [Romans 12:10 NASB]

Matthew 22:41-46 Son of Man, Son of God

Now while the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them a question: "What do you think about the Christ, whose son is He?" They said to Him, " The son of David." He said to them, "Then how does David in the Spirit call Him 'Lord,' saying, 'The Lord said to my Lord, "Sit at My right hand, until I put Your enemies beneath Your feet"'?  If David then calls Him 'Lord,' how is He his son?"  No one was able to answer Him a word, nor did anyone dare from that day on to ask Him another question. [Matthew 22:41‭-‬46 NASB]

 The rulers in Israel had conspire together, taking turns asking Jesus questions about the Law in an effort to discredit Him. Jesus turned the tables by asking them one question, not based on the Law, but on a promise. Unlike His adversaries, Jesus' goal was not to shame or discredit the Pharisees, but to teach them - if they would be taught.

The natural answer to Jesus question was "The son of David". This is a scriptural truth, and the Pharisees were correct in their answer.

It was prophesied, "There will be no end to the increase of His government or of peace, On the throne of David and over his kingdom, To establish it and to uphold it with justice and righteousness From then on and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will accomplish this." [Isaiah 9:7 NASB]

Also, "“Behold, the days are coming,” declares the LORD, “When I will raise up for David a righteous Branch; And He will reign as king and act wisely And do justice and righteousness in the land. “In His days Judah will be saved, And Israel will dwell securely; And this is His name by which He will be called, ‘The LORD our righteousness.’" [Jeremiah 23:5-6 NASB]

And again, "Then a shoot will spring from the stem of Jesse, And a branch from his roots will bear fruit." [Isaiah 11:1 NASB]

In the eyes of the Jews, the Messiah was to be a man from the offspring of David. They had no concept of His Deity. In fact they tried to kill Him for making this claim, "Jesus answered them, “I showed you many good works from the Father; for which of them are you stoning Me?” The Jews answered Him, “For a good work we do not stone You, but for blasphemy; and because You, being a man, make Yourself out to be God.”" [John 10:32-33 NASB]

Therefore, when Jesus quoted Psalm 110:1 to them, they, having gone on record denying the divinity of the Messiah, had no answer.

That He is, in fact, God is born out in the prophecies:

"“I will surely tell of the decree of the LORD: He said to Me, ‘You are My Son, Today I have begotten You." [Psalm 2:7 NASB]

"For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace." [Isaiah 9:6 NASB]

"“Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, a virgin will be with child and bear a son, and she will call His name Immanuel." [Isaiah 7:14 NASB]

It is important for us to know who Jesus is. He is the Son of David, fully man, tempted in all ways as we are, yet without sin.

He is also Immanuel, God with us. Fully God, all powerful, all knowing, and living within the heart of each one of us who believe through the Holy Spirit.

As man, he died on the cross in the weakness of His flesh, a sacrifice without sin, and taking on the sins of the world. As God, He rose from the dead in power, having defeated death and Satan.

This is the God we serve. This is the Son we worship.

Matthew 22:34-40 The Great Commandment

But when the Pharisees heard that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, they gathered themselves together. One of them, a lawyer, asked Him a question, testing Him, "Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?" And He said to him, "'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.' This is the great and foremost commandment.  The second is like it, 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' On these two commandments depend the whole Law and the Prophets." [Matthew 22:34‭-‬40 NASB]

Jesus was well aware that with His impending death and resurrection, He would be ushering in a New Covenant, making the requirements of the Old Covenant (the Law and the Prophets). We are told:

For if that first covenant had been faultless, there would have been no occasion sought for a second. For finding fault with them, He says, "Behold, days are coming, says the Lord, when I will effect a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah; not like the covenant which I made with their fathers on the day when I took them by the hand  to lead them out of the land of Egypt; for they did not continue in My covenant, and I did not care for them, says the Lord." For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord: I will put  my laws into their minds, and I will write them on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they shall be My people. "And they shall not teach everyone his fellow citizen, and everyone his brother, saying, 'know the  Lord,' for all will know Me, from the least to the greatest of them. "for I will be merciful to their iniquities, and I will remember their sins no more."  When He said, "A new covenant," He has made the first obsolete. But whatever is becoming obsolete and growing old is ready to disappear. [Hebrews 8:7‭-‬13 NASB]

Therefore, all of the sacrifices, rituals and regulations have been done away with. What remains are these two principles that are not based on rituals, but on the condition of the heart. Love God with everything you are, and love your neighbor.

In an ideal Christian society, each person would seek God and allow himself to be taught by the Holy Spirit who lives in each of us. In this idyllic world, there would be no crime or jealousy. Each one of us would walk in the Spirit, putting God first as our priority in all things. And we would treat one another fairly and compassionately, putting the needs of others before ourselves.

One day, we will be changed. Whether that be through death, or being caught up to meet Him, we will have new bodies that are free of the weaknesses and temptations of the flesh. In that day, we will live up to the ideal.

In the mean time, join me in the challenge to live in the Spirit right now in this world. Let's do our part to create an ideal society in our own little sphere of influence. We may not have the power to change the world, but we, at least, can live in peace, and, perhaps, influence the people around us.

Matthew 22:23-33 Doctrinal Mockery

On that day some Sadducees (who say there is no resurrection) came to Jesus and questioned Him, asking, "Teacher, Moses said, 'If a man dies having no children, his brother as next of kin shall marry his wife, and raise up children for his brother.' Now there were seven brothers with us; and the first married and died, and having no children left his wife to his brother; so also the second, and the third, down to the seventh. Last of all, the woman died. In the resurrection, therefore, whose wife of the seven will she be? For they all had married her."  But Jesus answered and said to them, "You are mistaken, not understanding the Scriptures nor the power of God.  For in the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven.  But regarding the resurrection of the dead, have you not read what was spoken to you by God: 'I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob'? He is not the God of the dead but of the living."  When the crowds heard this, they were astonished at His teaching. [Matthew 22:23‭-‬33 NASB]

The Sadducees were the elite, ruling class in Israel, and served in the temple as priests and officers. They were few in number, but held a great deal of power and influence because of their position and wealth. They recognized only the Torah, that is, the first five books of the Old Testament, as scripture, rejecting the books of history and prophecy. They didn't believe in angels or spirits. Since, in their minds, people didn't have a spirit to resurrect, they didn't believe in the resurrection of the dead.

The Sadducees weren't looking for truth from Jesus. The point of the question was to attempt to outwit Jesus. By asking a ridiculous question, they were mocking the concept of the resurrection, and hoped to make it appear foolish and impossible.

This is common tactic which I have seen used over the years by people who disagree with another persons viewpoint. If you want to see a good example of this, just scroll through Facebook. Most of us have a political friend who posts about their opposition. Very few use well reasoned, sound argument to make a case for what they believe, but instead choose to use hyperbole and mockery to denigrate their opponent/victim.

I have seen the same type of thing in the church from those who don't understand another's belief. Take the gifts of the Spirit for example. The gifts are described by Paul:

"But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. For to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, and to another the word of knowledge according to the same Spirit; to another faith by the same Spirit, and to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, and to another the effecting of miracles, and to another prophecy, and to another the distinguishing of spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, and to another the interpretation of tongues. But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually just as He wills." [1 Corinthians 12:7-11 NASB]

I believe that all of the gifts of the Spirit described in 1 Corinthians 12 are a gift to the church, and are active and available today for those who believe. I understand that not everybody believes in the gifts, although I think that they are denying the power of God in their unbelief.

Healing is often mocked by the person affecting the manner of the stereotypical tent preacher/televangelist in the worst way. They compare the gift of prophecy to fortune-telling. And they dismiss speaking in tongues as gobbledygook.

Another example is the rapture. For those who believe in the rapture, there are various theories about the timing, whether pre-trib, mid-trib, of post-trib. I had a college professor who dismissed the post-tribulation rapture by mockingly calling it "the bounce theory". He said, "You get caught up and then bounce right back for the Lord's return." Having so firmly mocked the opposing viewpoint, no further scriptural argument was needed.

Those who don't believe there will be a rapture ridicule the whole concept as a flight of fancy, invariably concluding with "the word's not even found in the Bible." Which is half true. The word "rapture" while not found in most translation means, "to be caught up". As in, "For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord." [1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 NASB] (By the way, the word, "theology" is not found in the Bible, but we believe in God.)

They love to point out the cults that have prophesied the rapture on a certain date, then have sold everything and sat on a mountain top waiting. By pointing to an extreme, they hope to discredit the entire teaching.

Yes, there have been abuses, as well as some confusion. If you see abuse, then point out the abuse and teach the truth. If you see confusion, then study the scriptures to clarify them.

Beware of mocking another person's doctrine, lest you be found guilty of mocking the Holy Spirit.

Matthew 22:15-22 Republicans and Democrats

Then the Pharisees went and plotted together how they might trap Him in what He said. And they sent their disciples to Him, along with the Herodians, saying, "Teacher, we know that You are truthful and teach the way of God in truth, and defer to no one; for You are not partial to any. Tell us then, what do You think? Is it lawful to give a poll-tax to Caesar, or not?" But Jesus perceived their malice, and said, "Why are you testing Me, you hypocrites?  Show Me the coin used for the poll-tax." And they brought Him a denarius. And He said to them, "Whose likeness and inscription is this?"  They said to Him, "Caesar's." Then He said to them, "Then render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's; and to God the things that are God's."  And hearing this, they were amazed, and leaving Him, they went away. [Matthew 22:15‭-‬22 NASB]

It is significant that the Pharisees joined with the Herodians against Jesus. They were political enemies. The pharisees were very pro-Israel. They resented any Roman interference and despised the Roman taxes. The Herodians were pro-Rome, believed that the Roman roads and building projects improved Israel, and supported the Roman taxes as a fair way to pay for those improvements.

These political enemies were brought together in a spirit of unity and cooperation because of Jesus. That is, they each saw Him as a threat, and joined forces to discredit Him. So they devised a question with no right answer.

The poll tax (also known as the census tax) was one denarius, paid yearly. A denarius is one day's wage for the average worker. If Jesus agreed that it was okay to pay the poll tax, He would be condemned by the vast majority of Jews who hated the tax. If He said that it was wrong to pay the tax, the Herodians would report Him for teaching sedition against Rome. If He said, "I don't know" He would have lost credibility for evading the question.

Jesus answer was, of course, brilliant. "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's; and to God the things that are God's."

The political climate in the United States is tense right now. The line dividing the liberal left from the conservative right is no longer a line, but a canyon. The middle ground has all but disappeared. The last time I engaged in political discussion (something I try to avoid) it was to try to point out the truth of both sides on an issue, and that there was room for agreement. It was made perfectly clear to me that there is no agreement and no compromise. Each side is fully convinced that they are right and that the other side is wrong.

I have friends who like to publish their political opinions on Facebook. Some of the most hateful content I have read has come from Christian friends. According to my Republican friends, all Democrats are evil, and are in league with the devil. Their goal, apparently, is to corrupt and ultimately enslave the masses. According to my Democrat friends, all Republicans are evil. The President is the embodiment of all things evil, and can do no right. If something appears to look good, then it must be a lie.

The truth is that we have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God, but He pours out His grace on us, and forgives us when we come to Him in faith.

There are both Republicans and Democrats who are lost and do the work of their father, the devil. They are power hungry political opportunists who are caught up in their sin. There are also Republicans and Democrats who are Christians, saved by the grace of God, and doing their best to live for Him.

As citizens in a republic we have the right to express our opinion. As citizens of the kingdom of God, we should express our opinion in a way that is uplifting and positive; that brings unity and not division; that promotes respect and honor, and not hate.

We have been taught, "Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether to a king as the one in authority, or to governors as sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and the praise of those who do right. For such is the will of God that by doing right you may silence the ignorance of foolish men. Act as free men, and do not use your freedom as a covering for evil, but use it as bondslaves of God. Honor all people, love the brotherhood, fear God, honor the king." [1 Peter 2:13-17 NASB]

We have a president instead of a king. But the meaning and application is clear. It is our obligation as Christians to submit ourselves to government authorities and honor them. He does not add the caveat "if you agree with them."

Paul said, "First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior," [1 Timothy 2:1-3 NASB]

Don't post hateful comments online about your political enemies. Pray for them instead. Don't worry about the results; they are in God's hands. Even if the person you are praying for fails to respond to God, you will be changed by praying for them. In this, you will find peace.

Matthew 22:1-14 The Wedding Feast

Jesus spoke to them again in parables, saying, "The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a wedding feast for his son.  And he sent out his slaves to call those who had been invited to the wedding feast, and they were unwilling to come.  Again he sent out other slaves saying, 'Tell those who have been invited, "Behold, I have prepared my dinner; my oxen and my fattened livestock are all butchered and everything is ready; come to the wedding feast."'  But they paid no attention and went their way, one to his own farm, another to his business,  and the rest seized his slaves and mistreated them and killed them.  But the king was enraged, and he sent his armies and destroyed those murderers and set their city on fire.  Then he said to his slaves, 'The wedding is ready, but those who were invited were not worthy.  Go therefore to the main highways, and as many as you find there, invite to the wedding feast.'  Those slaves went out into the streets and gathered together all they found, both evil and good; and the wedding hall was filled with dinner guests.   "But when the king came in to look over the dinner guests, he saw a man there who was not dressed in wedding clothes,  and he said to him, 'Friend, how did you come in here without wedding clothes?' And the man was speechless.  Then the king said to the servants, 'Bind him hand and foot, and throw him into the outer darkness; in that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.'  For many are called, but few are chosen." [Matthew 22:1‭-‬14 NASB]

A little over a year ago, Prince Harry married Meghan Markle. It was the event of the year in England, and was even televised throughout the United States. The invitees to the wedding were the great and noble, the rich and famous. People flew from around the world to attend, because of the honor and prestige of being invited to a princes wedding.

A princes wedding feast would have been just as prestigious in Jesus' day as is today. Receiving an invitation would have been a great honor, and would have been of great benefit to the attendees socially and in business. To refuse such an invitation makes no sense. And that's the point.

Jesus is still speaking to the priests and elders of Israel. They are the ones invited to the feast, God is the king, and Jesus is the Son. Through His parable, Jesus is prophesying that Israel will reject the Messiah, and be destroyed, and that God's favor would turn elsewhere.

God extends His grace to everyone, including those whom society deem good or evil. All are invited equally.

This parable exposes three types of people who will not attend the wedding feast (enter the kingdom of heaven). First there are those who ignore the invitation. They go back to their farms or back to their business. The most common response to the gospel is to ignore it. "That's just religious talk. Let me get back to my ball game." They think that if they ignore it, it will go away.

The second group are those who mistreated and killed the kings slaves. They represent the people who are antagonistic to the gospel. In many countries around the world, Christians endure tremendous persecution. They are beaten, tortured and killed because of their faith in Jesus. Here in America, things aren't that bad. But there are powerful groups who would strip away our rights to worship freely. There are articles almost daily about the antagonism directed at Chick-fil-A because the owner is a Christian who believes in the Biblical definition of marriage. That is only one example of the attacks that are coming at Christians in America. It's not outright persecution. Yet.

The third group really messes with the minds of some theologians. In the parable, he heard and accepted the invitation, and was ushered into the banquet hall. Then he was found unworthy. There is a pithy Christian expression, "Once saved, always saved." Some people believe that once they have accepted the invitation to make Jesus their Lord, they can then live their life as they see fit. It's like they have a free pass. But Hebrews makes it very clear that this is not the case. "For in the case of those who have once been enlightened and have tasted of the heavenly gift and have been made partakers of the Holy Spirit, and have tasted the good word of God and the powers of the age to come, and then have fallen away, it is impossible to renew them again to repentance, since they again crucify to themselves the Son of God and put Him to open shame." [Hebrews 6:4-6 NASB]

Jesus said, "For many are called, but few are chosen." The invitation has been issued to everyone. The chosen are those who accept His invitation and live their lives for Him.

Matthew 21:33-46 Vine Growers

"Listen to another parable. There was a landowner who planted a  vineyard and put a wall around it and dug a wine press in it , and built a tower , and rented it out to vine-growers and went on a journey.  When the harvest time approached, he sent his slaves to the vine-growers to receive his produce.  The vine-growers took his slaves and beat one, and killed another, and stoned a third.  Again he sent another group of slaves larger than the first; and they did the same thing to them.  But afterward he sent his son to them, saying, 'They will respect my son.'  But when the vine-growers saw the son, they said among themselves, 'This is the heir; come, let us kill him and seize his inheritance.'  They took him, and threw him out of the vineyard and killed him.  Therefore when the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those vine-growers?"  They said to Him, "He will bring those wretches to a wretched end, and will rent out the vineyard to other vine-growers who will pay him the proceeds at the proper seasons."  Jesus said to them, "Did you never read in the Scriptures, 'The stone which the builders rejected, this became the chief corner stone; this came about from the Lord, and it is marvelous in our eyes'?  Therefore I say to you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people, producing the fruit of it.  And he who falls on this stone will be broken to pieces; but on whomever it falls, it will scatter him like dust."   When the chief priests and the Pharisees heard His parables, they understood that He was speaking about them. When they sought to seize Him, they feared the people, because they considered Him to be a prophet. [Matthew 21:33‭-‬46 NASB]

In their arrogance the priests and elders thought that they were without reproach. In their national pride, they thought Israel was the only nation that God would choose. When they first heard the parable, they self-righteously condemned the vine-growers. When they understood that it was about them, they became offended on several levels.

Jesus challenged their perception of themselves as righteous. They followed the traditions, and offered all the right sacrifices in their time. They could not conceive of themselves as wicked wretches subject to the judgement of God.

Jesus reminded them of the prophets who had been sent to Israel, and who were subsequently killed. No doubt, the religious leaders condemned the actions of their forbears, but they failed to see that they were about to do even worse. Their ancestors had killed the servants, but they were about to kill the Son.

Jesus applied a well known Messianic prophecy to Himself. He quotes Psalm 118:22-23 referring to the cornerstone, an image which is used repeatedly as a metaphor of the Messiah. The priests and scribes have already rejected Jesus, therefore any allusions to the Messiah are equally and automatically rejected.

Jesus made the statement, "the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people, producing the fruit of it." This is perhaps the most offensive thing He could have said to one of Israel's leaders. They based much of their identity as "God's Chosen People", uniquely graced by Him, alone in the world. The very idea that God would take their chosen status and give it to another was unthinkable.

In fact, Israel was cut off for a time, and the blessing of God was given to the predominately Gentile body of believers. But Israel continues to hold a special and unique place in both history and prophecy. And one day, all of Israel will be saved, as it is written, "For I do not want you, brethren, to be uninformed of this mystery—so that you will not be wise in your own estimation—that a partial hardening has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in; and so all Israel will be saved; just as it is written," [Romans 11:25-26 NASB]

It is important that we not become arrogant towards Israel. As Paul said, "But if some of the branches were broken off, and you, being a wild olive, were grafted in among them and became partaker with them of the rich root of the olive tree, do not be arrogant toward the branches; but if you are arrogant, remember that it is not you who supports the root, but the root supports you. You will say then, “Branches were broken off so that I might be grafted in.” Quite right, they were broken off for their unbelief, but you stand by your faith. Do not be conceited, but fear; for if God did not spare the natural branches, He will not spare you, either." [Romans 11:17-21 NASB]

As Americans, we often think of ourselves as a Christian nation, blessed by God. I believe that God has blessed us greatly. But as time goes on, we are becoming less and less Christian. More and more pagan religions are being embraced. And many so-called Christian churches have abandoned the gospel in favor of social reform. If God rejected Israel, how much more likely is He to reject America.

We need to intercede on behalf of our nation. Let us pray that the kingdom of God will come, that the Spirit of God will draw the nation to Him, and that righteousness will prevail.

Matthew 12:28-32 Sin in the Pulpit

"But what do you think? A man had two sons, and he came to the first and said, 'Son, go work today in the vineyard.'  And he answered, 'I will not'; but afterward he regretted it and went.  The man came to the second and said the same thing; and he answered, 'I will, sir'; but he did not go.  Which of the two did the will of his father?" They said, "The first." Jesus said to them, "Truly I say to you that the tax collectors and prostitutes will get into the kingdom of God before you.  For John came to you in the way of righteousness and you did not believe him; but the tax collectors and prostitutes did believe him; and you, seeing this, did not even feel remorse afterward so as to believe him. [Matthew 21:28‭-‬32 NASB]

This is a follow up to the priests and elders challenge to Jesus' authority. Jesus had asked them, "The baptism of John was from what source, from heaven or from men?” And they began reasoning among themselves, saying, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ He will say to us, ‘Then why did you not believe him?’ “But if we say, ‘From men,’ we fear the people; for they all regard John as a prophet.” And answering Jesus, they said, “We do not know.” He also said to them, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I do these things." [Matthew 21:25-27 NASB]

I was recently talking with my sister about heaven. We agreed with no doubt that our mother is in heaven now, enjoying the presence of Jesus. The fate of a certain other man we know is...less certain. The fruit of this man's life did not show any spiritual goodness. Nor did he ever acknowledge Jesus (that we know of). However, since we are both familiar with the Bible, we agreed that it is not our place to judge his eternal state. God's grace is enough to make a deathbed conversion wipe away a lifetime of sin, just as the thief on the cross was promised, “Truly I say to you, today you shall be with Me in Paradise.” [Luke 23:43 NASB]

I know another man who has spent his entire life carousing, drinking and using drugs. I have seen this man confess faith in Jesus. And, even now, I see evidence of the Holy Spirit strengthening him to overcome his addictions. I fully expect to meet him one day in heaven.

On the other hand, there are preachers and church leaders who think their status will guarantee them a place in heaven. But they preach lies and false doctrines, leading their followers astray. They teach that homosexuality is a normal and healthy lifestyle. Many engage in the lifestyle themselves, and teach others to do the same in the name Jesus. This in spite of the Biblical teaching that homosexuality is sin (see Romans 1:26,27).

Homosexuals should be welcomed in church, where they can meet Jesus, hear sound teaching, and turn from their sins. The Bible teaches that we have all sinned. None of us comes to Christ guilt-free. He calls us all to turn away from our sins. Just as the woman caught in adultery was told, “I do not condemn you, either. Go. From now on sin no more.” [John 8:11 NASB]

There are others who teach a gospel of greed. "If you just do these things, God will make you rich". Funny how "these things" always seem to involve donating to the preacher or buying his books. Of course, Jesus never taught any such thing. If wealth was a measure of spirituality, why did he praise the poor widow who gave a penny, and condemn the wealthy who gave much more? Jesus said, "Truly I say to you, it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven." [Matthew 19:23 NASB]

Unfortunately, there are many more examples of heresies, of pastors using their church as a power base for their own little fiefdom, and of sin being practiced by the clergy and promoted from the pulpit. These are those of whom Jesus said, "Let them alone; they are blind guides of the blind. And if a blind man guides a blind man, both will fall into a pit." [Matthew 15:14 NASB]

One day, it will be up to God to judge them. For now, we need to have our own relationship with God through the Holy Spirit. We need to study and know the Word of God, so that we will recognize error when we hear it. 

Most importantly, if we find ourselves being led by a blind guide, we need to open our eyes and get out of line.

If you recognize that your pastor or leader is teaching false doctrine, or that sin is being promoted as normal, then you need to get out of that church. Do not remain under that leadership, lest you be dragged down into hell with them.