Matthew 23: 1-12 (NRSV)
Read Matthew 23: 1-12 on biblegateway.com
Chapter 23Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, Verse 2"The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses' seat; Verse 3therefore, do whatever they teach you and follow it; but do not do as they do, for they do not practice what they teach. Verse 4They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on the shoulders of others; but they themselves are unwilling to lift a finger to move them. Verse 5They do all their deeds to be seen by others; for they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long. Verse 6They love to have the place of honor at banquets and the best seats in the synagogues, Verse 7and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, and to have people call them rabbi. Verse 8But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all students. Verse 9And call no one your father on earth, for you have one Father-the one in heaven. Verse 10Nor are you to be called instructors, for you have one instructor, the Messiah. Verse 11The greatest among you will be your servant. Verse 12All who exalt themselves will be humbled, and all who humble themselves will be exalted.
Devotion
“[Jesus said,] ‘They [the scribes and Pharisees] tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on the shoulders of others; but they themselves are unwilling to lift a finger to move them.’” Matthew 23:4 (NRSV)
What were these burdens that the scribes and Pharisees laid on the shoulders of others? These teachers of Israel demanded strict observance of the Jewish purity laws, tithing and the Sabbath. Under them, the Law became an ever-increasing burden to bear.
Jesus also demands much from his disciples. Yet while the yoke of the scribes and Pharisees was heavy, that of Jesus is light. Are you burdened by the belief that your relationship with God depends on your perfect obedience to God’s commands? Come to Jesus. You will find that he has already lifted the burden for you!