Scripture
17 Now you, if you call yourself a Jew; if you rely on the law and boast in God; 18 if you know his will and approve of what is superior because you are instructed by the law; 19 if you are convinced that you are a guide for the blind, a light for those who are in the dark, 20 an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of little children, because you have in the law the embodiment of knowledge and truth— 21 you, then, who teach others, do you not teach yourself? You who preach against stealing, do you steal? 22 You who say that people should not commit adultery, do you commit adultery? You who abhor idols, do you rob temples? 23 You who boast in the law, do you dishonor God by breaking the law? 24 As it is written: “God’s name is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you.”
Reflection
Some people think very highly of themselves and our friend Paul is here to warn us to not get too big headed. Even the best of us have broken the law, told a lie, or idolized something in way or another. When you begin to think too highly of yourself spiritually, you are beginning to tread into some dangerous territory. Paul states that hypocrisy in your faith is the equivalent of blaspheming the name of God, and it seems, no one is safe from this. That is a pretty serious accusation. Paul is setting us up for something big here because he has been painting a pretty grim picture of our unrighteousness (Josh)
Thoughts for the day
- In which area in your life do you feel you are too big headed??
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- What is one way you can apply this truth to your life today?
- Who can you encourage with this story/message?
Prayer
Ask the Holy Spirit to help you create a space in your calendar and a place in your life for prayer. Where?
