“Everything they do is done for people to see: They make their phylacteries wide and the tassels on their garments long; they love the place of honour at banquets and the most important seats in the synagogues; they love to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces and to be called ‘Rabbi’ by others.” (Matthew 23 v 5-7)
Knowing what we do not want to become is as important as what we do want to become.
Jesus provides a list:
- Phylacteries (small boxes containing Scriptural verses tied to wrists and the forehead): We may want to be known as being a Bible-believer but we do not want to boast of our Bible obedience.
- Tassels (On the 4 corners of the garments reminding people to obey God): We may want to be holy but we don’t need to make people feel unholy.
- Honour: We may like to go out for dinner but we do not need to sit at the centre of the table.
- Seats: We may like to sit down but we do not insist on a VIP seat.
- Greetings: We may like to be welcomed but we do not chase after the praise of men.
Missions Paul 