February 6, 2006 - Exodus 39-40 and Matthew 23:23-39
As we finish reading Exodus, we see how the Tabernacle materials are completed and how the Tabernacle is constructed. I believe it is another good lesson in unity of purpose and vision on the part of the Hebrews that we can apply today. God gave the vision for the Tabernacle to Moses on the mountain, since God had called Moses to lead His people to the Promised Land. Then, Moses communicated the vision to the skilled workmen, and they along with other people completed all of the work. (39:42) That process left Moses and the judges free to lead the people while the work was being done. It also shows that the people bought into the vision, because they readily followed the instructions and did the work in a quality manner. When the work was done, Moses inspected it to assure it was done correctly. (39:43) He blessed them for the excellent work, and then, Moses constructed the Tabernacle. The instant result was that God's glory filled the Tabernacle. Why? God was pleased with their obedience, so He came to show His glory. Then, He continued to lead them by the cloud and the fire. The people continued to follow the Lord and Moses. Isn't this a great picture of unity of vision and cooperation to do the will of God? I believe that God is looking for us to do the same things today in our churches.
In Matthew 23 Jesus continues to speak to the multitude about the Jewish leaders to warn them about their hypocrisy. What is hypocrisy? It is acting one way on the outside, while feeling a different way on the inside. It is being two-faced with people. It is putting the emphasis on the outside appearance, instead of taking care of the heart. Jesus condemns all of these things. These are the kinds of things that prevent God's will from being done. They are the sins of the flesh that cause disunity and personal ambition, instead of cooperation to do God's will. They will destroy people, instead of helping them. We must hear this message and listen to Jesus. He is calling us just like He called Jerusalem. (v.37) We must respond, because He will not force us to act against our will. Do you want to see God's glory in your life and in your church? You must get rid of the hypocrisy and embrace the will of God in your heart.
Tomorrow, I intend to read Leviticus 1-3 and Matthew 24:1-28.
In Matthew 23 Jesus continues to speak to the multitude about the Jewish leaders to warn them about their hypocrisy. What is hypocrisy? It is acting one way on the outside, while feeling a different way on the inside. It is being two-faced with people. It is putting the emphasis on the outside appearance, instead of taking care of the heart. Jesus condemns all of these things. These are the kinds of things that prevent God's will from being done. They are the sins of the flesh that cause disunity and personal ambition, instead of cooperation to do God's will. They will destroy people, instead of helping them. We must hear this message and listen to Jesus. He is calling us just like He called Jerusalem. (v.37) We must respond, because He will not force us to act against our will. Do you want to see God's glory in your life and in your church? You must get rid of the hypocrisy and embrace the will of God in your heart.
Tomorrow, I intend to read Leviticus 1-3 and Matthew 24:1-28.