The Pharisees devoted themselves to the rules of ritual purity and to turning the nation to righteousness—something they believed would prompt God to deliver them from the Romans.
Jesus’ purpose in his teaching was to reveal the heart of God. He distilled the entire law into two principles: to love God supremely and to love others as much as we love ourselves. While the Pharisees looked for outward conformity, Jesus looked for inward change.
Read More rules, righteousness, heartThe Christian life is difficult, even with God’s Word to guide us. Not only does our own sinfulness get in the way, but his guidance is so easily abused by those we look to as leaders.
This was certainly the case in ancient Israel as the Pharisees, zealous to lead the people of God, distorted the meaning and purpose of Scripture. Sabbath observance was at the core of Jewish faith.
Read More life, Sabbath, rules, missing the point
Read Reflect Very conservative Christians are notorious for their harsh judgment of those whose spiritual or moral (or, alas, political) convictions differ from their own. Perhaps their only rivals for prideful exclusivity are those very liberal Christians whose tolerance extends to everyone – except those whose convictions are rigorous and clearly defined. Paul points out […]
Read More judgment, freedom, rules, convictions, being right
A Christian view of the world encourages high standards of conduct. It demands a refined conscience and a keen sense of appropriate behaviour. The lists of do’s and don’ts do not spring from rigid rule-making, but, rather, from a desire for relational harmony. “All of you should agree and have concern and love for each other. You should also be kind and humble” (v 8).
Read More forgiveness, rules, behaviour, righteousness, harmony