Admonishment is difficult to accept. Our initial reaction can often result in a defensive response, or even an offensive rebuttal. Comparing our sin with others, or pointing to a seemingly worse offense, indicates an attitude of denial and a lack of humility. The Sermon on the Mount continues to expose the idols of our hearts, especially when it comes to self-contrived righteousness. Jesus points out in Matthew 7:1-5 how backwards our thinking is when we judge the lives of others yet fail to recognize our very own lifestyle of sin. This blatant inconsistency is not so obvious when we make a habit of elevating our good works as a way of ignoring our faults. Jesus describes such persons as “workers of lawlessness” (Matt. 7:23). Even our own righteousness will ultimately condemn us.
We may do many good works in the name of Christ, but if we fail to acknowledge our sin, and respond with a heart of authentic obedience, we will not enter the Kingdom of heaven (7:21-23). So take hope in the work of Christ and embrace His righteousness that is made possible through His gracious act of justification. – Pastor Nate Wagner
Sunday at Liberty
- BTH: Pastor Rory–Ecclesiology–Communion vs the Mass (Lord’s Table)
- AM: Pastor Rory–Matthew 5-7–The Messiah’s Authoritative Expectations, 3 (sermon notes)–Communion
- PM: Pastor Rory–Colossians 1:24-29–What Is a Pastor? Member/Counselor
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