Who’s in Moses’ Chair?
Jesus said, “The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. Therefore, whatever they tell you to observe, that observe and do, but do not do according to their works.” (Matthew 23:2-3a) Why did Jesus say that
to His followers about the religious leaders? Because they were hypocrites! Matthew 23:1-12 reveals four characteristics of hypocrites. First, what they say doesn’t match what they do—“for they say, and do not do.” (v. 3b) Second, what they expect of others they won’t do themselves—“For they bind heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on men’s shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers.” (v. 4) Third, their faith is all show and no substance—“But all their works they do to be seen by men.” (v. 5) This sounds like a lot of Christians today: a lot of real spiritual talk, but not much action to back it up. Fourth, they maintain an air of superiority—“They love the best places at feasts, the best seats in the synagogues, greetings in the marketplaces, and to be called by men, ‘Rabbi, Rabbi.’” (vv. 6-7) If there’s no applause, they’re disappointed. How does a person keep from becoming a hypocrite as a Christian? Jesus gave some instruction. He warned against pride—“Do not be called ‘Rabbi’; for One is your Teacher, the Christ, and you are all brethren. Do not call anyone on earth your father; for One is your Father, He who is in heaven. And do not be called teachers; for One is your Teacher, the Christ.” (vv. 8-10) He was instructing not to give undue spiritual authority to anyone. Yet, don’t neglect giving proper respect to leaders. Then, Jesus gave a call to humility—“He who is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” (vv. 11-12) It’s not those who think they are all that who are great. It’s those who humble themselves and serve others.
Sin cera, Erik
Erik O. Garthe is Associate Pastor at Canton Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland.