Pastor Barry's  "Chapter & Verse"  Day 214

August 2;       Luke 16:15;       60/260(III);       ‘God Knows Your Heart’

 

Luke 16:15 And He said to them, "You are those who justify yourselves before men, but God knows your hearts. For what is highly esteemed among men is an abomination in the sight of God. 

 

The Pharisees were hypocrites.  How this must have disappointed and angered Jesus.  These religious leaders made an outward show of righteousness, but their hearts were filled with pride and greed.  They loved for the people to watch them pray their long prayers.  They loved to give their tithe, literally having someone blow a horn as they were about to give, getting the attention of everyone.  Their hypocrisy may have won the admiration of those who erroneously thought how holy these men were, but the Lord Jesus saw their hearts and knew it was just an act.  This does not mean that there were some religious leaders who were sincere, Jesus was not referring to them.  The power of Christianity is humility.  Manifesting the character of Jesus, treating whoever you encounter with courtesy and respect, praying and giving your tithes and offerings in private are Christ like.  Looking to be a blessing, not a ‘showoff’ wherever you go.  The ministry of the Lord Jesus spoke for itself.  His teaching though powerful and authoritative, was spoken so that the common person could understand.  His love for the people was so evident, so very different from the arrogant Pharisees, when He would begin to heal all of those in need of healing.  We have God’s nature, the Word and the power of the Holy Spirit.  These incredible gifts impress and bless others without our trying to advertise them.  Christianity is love and humility.  Religion is an abomination.