Ash Wednesday - Matthew 23

Wednesday, February 13 - Ash Wednesday - Matthew 23

This chapter comprises a sharply worded discourse by Jesus, criticizing the religous practices and lifestyle of the Pharisees and Saducees, the religious leaders of Jesus' day. These words serve as a caution to all of us not to use religion as a basis for judging others or for lording one's position over others.

23:1-12 What is Jesus warning against in this section? The religious leaders created many rituals and extraneous laws which went beyond God's intentions. Does anyone do that today?

The religous leaders sometimes used their religion for "show" -- have you ever done this?

Who are those in our world today who see titles in prideful fashion? When have you experienced "greatness" by being the servant of others?

23:13-32 This section contains seven "woes". What does each "woe" warn against?

13-14

15

16-22

23-24

25-26

27-28

29-32

What does Jesus mean when He calls the religious leaders "whitewashed tombs?" (v. 27)

23:37-39 Note Jesus' deep love for His people despite their failings and faults. He years to gather them as a mother bird gathers her chicks. How are these words both a worning and a comfort?

Join us for church this evening at 7 pm.