Gleanings (12/7/11) – Follower or Fan?
Matthew 23:1-12
“They do all their deeds to be seen by men.”
Deeds? What is in view here? Things like kosher foods, sacrifices, tithing, the proper washing of pots and pans, fasting on prescribed days, and other religious observances. They did these things to be noticed by men.
Have you ever attended church because that is what good people do? That is what in is in question. Religion. Cultural religion. Observation without submission.
What the Holy Spirit births in us is a relationship in which we call Jesus Master and we submit as servants if not slaves. That cannot be captured in religious observance and of course therefore can be practiced without any such observation. I know, I know. We are not to forsake assembling together. Agreed!
Here is the thing. Jesus wants followers before he wants fans. Are we on the field or in the stands?