SUMMARY: Duplicitous
OVERVIEW: The religious leaders challenged the authority of Jesus, and Jesus questioned the intentions of the religious leaders.
BIG IDEA: Don’t live a double life.
KEY VERSE: Luke 20:46–47 (Jesus to disciples)
Beware of these teachers of religious law! For they like to parade around in flowing robes and love to receive respectful greetings as they walk in the marketplaces. And how they love the seats of honor in the synagogues and the head table at banquets. Yet they shamelessly cheat widows out of their property and then pretend to be pious by making long prayers in public. Because of this, they will be severely punished.
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
There’s no need to pretend to be someone you’re not. Don’t waste time carefully constructing a public image. Be real. People relate to you when they see you for who you are. A self-important attitude is destructive becomes a barrier between you and others. Don’t play that game. No one wins when you do. And you play a role in how people see me. Others see me best when you are yourself.
Being my child affords you specific blessings and freedoms in life, but don’t let those gifts become more important than your relationship with me or your purpose of reaching others. Don’t hide your weaknesses, hoping others will think more highly of you. Be honest with me and others about your struggles. Your openness will encourage others to share their life experiences. Your humility will point others toward me. Being real will make you a valuable friend. Everyone wins when you do that.
NEXT STEP
Are you taking advantage of anyone to elevate yourself? Are you making unfair business decisions, getting a laugh by insulting someone else, pushing people around because of your title or position, gloating over victories? Apologize today.
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