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NASB | Matthew 23:1 Then Jesus spoke to the crowds and to His disciples, |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Matthew 23:1 Then Jesus spoke to the crowds and to His disciples, |
Bible Question:
I am seeking understanding of Matthew 23:1-36; which is summarized in Mark 12: 38-40 regarding Jesus’ teaching about how we should be aware of false teachers. How can we identify false “religious keepers” when most clergy people “38…walk around in long robes…like to have the respect of men as they stand in the center of town where people gather….39…have important seats in the places of worship and the important places at big suppers.”? What character traits, behaviors, etc. are most indicative of false religious law-keepers who have found a secure title and position within the church? Is the answer to the above is found in the fact that most clergy do not “40 … take houses from women whose husbands have died….” ? Mark 12: 41-44 infers that a poor widow who willingly gives all to the church will be rewarded for being the most giving. What’s the difference between taking widows’ houses and accepting the gift of widows’ houses? How does a widow know if she’s giving or “being taken?” Your willingness to take the time to help me understand is more appreciated than you can know. God Bless you and yours, |
Bible Answer: THANKS EVERYBODY-PLEASE KNOW... I can't thank you all enough for the incredible insight and direction I've received. I am going to further my study by following up on all the guidance you've given and am looking forward to being more involved in this study group forum - hopefully as a contributor as well as a student. In the meantime, I want you all to know how important your input has been and how much it means to me and many others. I believe God did lead me here to you all and I feel like He's working through me to help stop this insidiousness. My intent is to continue praying for guidance as I approach the day when I speak with the priest face-to-face. Now that you all have helped my confidence by confirming my interpretations and by leading me in so many good directions for furthering my studies - I feel empowered enough not to be intimidated, and I believe God's Will will be done. Love and Blessings to you all - in God's Wisdom and Grace, Cheri |