February 11, 2022
What does it say?
Jesus traveled to Capernaum near the Sea of Galilee, teaching and healing. The Pharisees criticized Jesus because He did not follow Jewish law and tradition.
What does it mean?
The Jewish religious leaders watched Jesus’ every move and examined His every word. These experts in Jewish law and tradition opposed some of Jesus’ conduct because it was in conflict with their strict rules. It’s good to hold teachers accountable, but the Pharisees had allowed their traditions to become more important than God’s Word itself. This obsession completely blinded them not only to the fact that Jesus is God, but also to their spiritual needs for forgiveness and freedom. Because of the Pharisees’ hard and critical hearts, they missed out on the generous gifts that Jesus was willing to give.
How should I respond?
It is so easy to jump to conclusions about someone who doesn’t follow the same rules that you do. Speculating about their motives just makes it harder to do what God has called us to do: love them. We must be careful not to add anything to the scriptural commands for Christ-like living or use our convictions to judge. Our own need for moment-by-moment grace is easily forgotten when we’re focused on finding fault in someone else. How will you use the gifts and opportunities you have to share your freedom in Christ rather than argue over controversial issues that cause division?