Bible Text: Proverbs 22:1-5; Matthew 23:1-13 | Pastor: Dr. Tom LaBonte | The most challenging expectation of Jesus for those who heard him preach and for us is to “Walk the Talk” of his Gospel. Then, as now, this is a message often not well received. Jesus preaches an honest message causing some to get angry and confrontational. He does not tailor his Gospel to the opinions of his audience. He does not soft sell the commands and expectations of God for those calling themselves believers. Jesus never seeks favor with the rich and powerful including Temple Officers. He knows who he is, what he stands for, and he is not a pleaser. Jesus has little patience with the arrogance, self-righteousness and hypocrisy of those calling themselves religious but not living like it.

The Apostle Paul writes of these concerns to the Churches he organized. In 2nd Timothy 4, Paul prophesies 2000 years ago on the condition of the Church you may find applicable today. “For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching but have itching ears. They will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own likings, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander into myths. As for you, always be steady, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.” Paul encourages believers to stay the course, and not be swayed by those who manipulate or reject the Gospel of Christ. He reminds us to fulfill our baptismal and membership vows and obligations by loving God and our neighbor instead of following the ways of the world.