TO BE EXALTED

Passage: Matthew 23:1-12

Key verse: 11,12

NIV

Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
Source: BibleGateway

ESV

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.
Source: BibleGateway

1. Obey God's word (1-3)

The Pharisees were Bible scholars. They studied the Bible diligently, but they did not obey its teachings. Instead of humbly repenting before God's word, they burdened other people with many rules and enjoyed the honor and prestige of being Bible teachers. Jesus told his disciples to study the Bible so that they might obey God's word; but Jesus' disciples must not become like the Pharisees.

2. Do not exalt yourself (4-12)

God's servants must live before God. They must exalt God, not themselves. We are all brothers and sisters in Christ. We must all love and obey our Father God, and learn from our Teacher, Christ. One who stops learning and growing cannot be called a disciple. Jesus' disciples must be servants who respect and honor others. We must learn from each other and encourage one another.

Prayer: Lord, transform my proud heart into a humble and learning heart. Help me to grow in love.

One Word: Seek God's glory