September 23

Written by Bill Grandi on September 23rd, 2019

My title for this devotion is Do as I say vs Not as I Do.

In all of the Gospels, particularly Matthew, you will be hard-pressed to find a more scathing rebuke of the scribes and Pharisees than in Matthew 23. It is known as the “7 Woe” passage for obvious reasons. But the groundwork for that chapter is laid in verses 1-7. For the sake of time and space you can find it here.  In verses 2-3 Jesus says, “So do and observe what they tell you, but not the works they do. For they preach but do not practice.” He goes on to give examples of that fact.

To sum it up: their hypocrisy knows no bounds. Whether it be putting burdens on others but being unwilling to help carry them or seeking glory for their deeds, they are pieces of work. They are also rebuked harshly, hence the 7 woes. Jesus tells His disciples the proper attitude His followers should have: “The greatest among you shall be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself shall be exalted.” (verses 11-12)

Jesus’ rebuke lies in the fact that the religious leaders were those who said, “Do as I say, but what I say is not for me. I’m above that.” Their cold, hard-hearted approach to the teachings of the Scriptures is a misrepresentation of a servant of the Father.

How do I represent Jesus and the Scriptures? Do I approach it as “do as I say not as I do” or am I consistent with “what’s good for the goose is good for the gander”? Do I practice what I preach? Or do I tell people one thing and do the opposite? Do I load expectations on people but not willing to lend a hand if needed?

“Father, help me to be true in all things. To be the one who says and does what is true, one who acts as he says. Help me not to allow my life not back up my teaching.”

 

7 Comments so far ↓

  1. Oh, Bill, this was great! Oh, I pray that too! May my words match my actions! I too desire to be true in all things. Great post!

  2. Ryan S. says:

    As parents, as teachers, as employees, as employers, as family, as friends…
    As Christians…

    This is so important to grasp. So important to adhere to.

    Words can be heard and forgotten, but my actions will be felt and remembered.

    • Bill Grandi says:

      You’re absolutely right Ryan. As all of those and more it is important for our actions to be there.

  3. Such a powerful reminder here today, Bill. Our actions speak volumes where words fail. May we be true to our Christian calling.
    Blessings!

  4. floyd says:

    It’s so easy to judge others that don’t share our same weaknesses and tendencies. It takes the humility demonstrated by our Savior to be able to see us and the truth for what it is.

    Nothing uglier than a hypocrite…