02/05/22 Praying With JESUS: 40 Days Toward Church Revitalization — Day 22

Matthew 23:1-12 (ESV)
1 Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples,
2 “The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat,
3 so do and observe whatever they tell you, but not the works they do. For they preach, but do not practice.
4 They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on people’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to move them with their finger.
5 They do all their deeds to be seen by others. For they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long,
6 and they love the place of honor at feasts and the best seats in the synagogues
7 and greetings in the marketplaces and being called rabbi by others.
8 But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all brothers.
9 And call no man your father on earth, for you have one Father, who is in heaven.
10 Neither be called instructors, for you have one instructor, the Christ.
11 The greatest among you shall be your servant.
12 Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.

FOLLOW WHO?... “The scribes and the Pharisees have seated themselves in the chair of Moses; therefore all that they tell you, do and observe, but do not do according to their deeds, for they say things and do not do them” (Matthew 23:2-3). Those who are worthy of being followed, lead others by their own example of humility. They do not strive for their own honor, but to honor others. Those who practice such a lifestyle have earned your confidence; follow their lead as they follow Christ in the process of church REVITALIZATION. Paul told the Corinthian church, “Follow my example as I follow the example of Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1, NIV).

PRAY… Heavenly Father, our church family often has differing opinions about how to address all of the areas in our fellowship that need Your renewing touch. Please unify us around the cross of Jesus, and by Your sovereign grace, to follow those whom You have appointed to lead us through this challenging journey. Help us to walk in love, just as Christ also loved us and gave Himself up for us. Do not allow a single word of criticism or filthiness or silly talk or coarse jesting escape from our mouths, but only the giving of thanks and words of appreciation for those who are guiding us to follow You. In the mighty name of Jesus, I ask, Amen.