• New Testament Reading: Matthew 23:1-39
• Old Testament Passage: Isaiah 5:8, 11, 18-23
• Points to Ponder

“How Often I Have Longed”

When we read Matthew 23, Jesus’ strongest and clearest denunciation of the
Pharisees, what tone do we hear in his voice? Are these the rantings and
ravings of a man who has been pushed over the edge, whose frustration level
has reached its limit, who has finally had enough and who is going to have the last word before his
enemies crucify him? Do we see in Matthew 23 a justification for harsh rebukes? No! In all his
interactions with the Pharisees, Jesus’ ultimate purpose was to save their souls. He was not trying to
win an argument or put them in their place. He was trying to open their hearts and win them over
to God.

Notice Jesus’ lament in Matthew 23:37-39. We must never read the “seven woes” without
understanding the context of love in which they were spoken. Jesus shows us that “Pharisees” must
be, at times exposed, at times challenged, and always loved with the unconditional love that God has
for every soul. His strong words to people who felt they were the “true church” are a sharp reminder
to us of how easy it is to cross the line from righteousness that honors God to self-righteousness that
disgusts him. May God help us to stay humble servants, always grateful for grace and always open to
correction.

• Questions to Consider: Do you know any “Pharisees”? Jesus was not only a friend of tax
collectors and sinners, but he also loved and reached out to the Pharisees. Do you?