HYPOCRITES
Matthew 15:7-9
Hypocrites! Well did Isaiah prophesy about you, saying:
‘These people draw near to Me with their mouth,Personal challenge
And honor Me with their lips,
But their heart is far from Me.
And in vain they worship Me
Teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.’
The challenge in the body of God that Jesus had to deal with in His time here on earth was not what was going on in the world but what was happening within the ranks of God's chosen people, the church of the old covenant. Legalism had become the norm. Rules and traditions were established by the leaders and they elevated them to being above God. Clericalism was well established and the common participant, the lay person, was delegated to the role of just being an observer. People were falling away and the leaders, the priests, did not care, as long as they could attract new ones that wanted legalism, clericalism, and just clear steps to follow. God was pushed out just as those who loved Him and His ways. This is happening again today in many of our churches, parishes, and Christian faith practices. Even Jesus is becoming pushed into the role of being an observer. Lord, have mercy! Lord, have mercy! Lord, have mercy!
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