What steps can we take to avoid rejecting Jesus' teachings like the Pharisees? The Danger Highlighted in John 8:37 “I know you are Abraham’s descendants, but you are trying to kill Me because My word has no place within you.” (John 8:37) The Pharisees’ pedigree did not protect them; the issue was that Jesus’ word found no room in their hearts. Their example warns us to make deliberate, ongoing space for the Lord’s teaching. Step 1: Clear Space for the Word Within • Remove competing clutter—sin, bitterness, pride (James 1:21). • Daily read, meditate, and memorize Scripture (Psalm 119:11). • Abide, not merely sample: “If you abide in My word… you will know the truth” (John 8:31-32). Step 2: Pursue True Spiritual Heritage • Physical or cultural labels never substitute for personal faith. “Understand, then, that those who have faith are sons of Abraham” (Galatians 3:7). • Regular self-examination keeps heritage authentic (2 Corinthians 13:5). Step 3: Let Truth Pierce Pride • God’s Word exposes motives (Hebrews 4:12). • Choose humility: “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled” (Luke 18:14). • Confess quickly when conviction comes (Proverbs 28:13). Step 4: Choose Obedience over Tradition • Test every custom by Scripture (Matthew 15:8-9). • When tradition collides with clear command, joyfully surrender tradition. • Offer your whole life as a living sacrifice (Romans 12:1-2). Step 5: Walk in the Spirit’s Illumination • Fleshly effort breeds legalism; Spirit-led living brings freedom (Galatians 5:16). • Stay sensitive: a seared conscience cannot welcome Christ’s word. Step 6: Keep Love Central • Jesus rebuked the Pharisees for neglecting “justice, mercy and faithfulness” (Matthew 23:23). • Anchor every action in love for God and neighbor (Micah 6:8; John 13:34). Step 7: Stay Teachable to the End • Encourage one another daily so hearts do not harden (Hebrews 3:13). • Remain eager for correction through sermons, studies, and fellow believers (1 Peter 5:5). • Hear His knock and open promptly (Revelation 3:20). Putting It All Together Give Jesus unrestricted residence in your heart, assess traditions by His Word, walk humbly in the Spirit, and let love govern every choice. These habits keep His teaching alive within and guard against the tragic rejection modeled by the Pharisees. |
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