February 5, Matthew 23:1-22

Scripture: Matthew 23: 11-12..."And don't let anyone call you 'Master,' for there is only one master, the Messiah. The greatest among you must be a servant. But those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted."


Observation: This passage is a part of Jesus ripping into the Pharisees after his series of exchanges with them and other jewish leaders in chapter 22. He's basically explaining to his disciples that even though the Pharisees set themselves up as moral/spiritual guides for the people, the Pharisees are mainly interested in their image rather than being truely righteous. He warns his disciples to not be like them. In verses 11 and 12, he summarizes the heart of the problem that he will go on to develop in the rest of the chapter: The Pharisees have put themselves in the place of God. They are eager to be called "master" ("kathegetes" in greek meaning guide/master/teacher), make up rules that override the heart of God's law, and even prevent sincere seekers of God from finding Him. Jesus says, by contrast, the real leader in God's kingdom, a leader worthy of following, is one who is a servant.

Interestingly, Jesus was getting ready to humble himself and die for these people he came to serve. Unlike the Pharisees whose leadership oppressed, discouraged, and alienated people, Jesus frees, uplifts, and embraces people.

Application: As a "leader" in the church, to my children, and among my friends, I am convicted to be more humble and to be a servant who seeks to uplift and encourage.

Prayer: Father, thank you for teaching me through Jesus' example and warning. Help me to serve you and yours and to seek your righteousness rather than trying to impress people with mine. You are the only messiah. Help me serve them by pointing them to you.