photo #8983113

1. Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples,Matthew 23:1. Jesus began to denounce the Pharisees earlier 15:7, to His disciples, about their teaching the traditions of men, before God's commands. Now He is telling the crowds to break free from the legalism of the religious rulers, and follow Him. For without Christ, we have nothing. Barclay, describes 7 types of Pharisees. The Shoulder Pharisee, wearing all good deeds on his shoulder for all to see. The Wait-a-Little, who always found a reason for doing good later. The Bruised, who turned his head from every evil, in public showing he was holy, bumping and falling in the way. The Hump-Backed, who walked bent over barley lifting his feet to show all how humble he was. The Always-Counting, who kept track of his good deeds, thinking God was in debt to him. The Fearful, who was terrified, that God would strike him with judgment if he did not do good. The God-Fearing, this man loves God, and does good, because it is pleasing to God, and his will is to please God. That is why Christ's reward is so glorious and precious, because He rewards, those who love Him. Amen.