21 Well the, if you teach others, why don't you teach yourself? You tell others not to steal, but do you steal?
Paul is warning the church to beware of those teachers who are teaching the law yet they do not have a true relationship with Christ. Without communion with Jesus and relationship there is no "right" way to live. Paul is telling them that they must study, they must know the truth to be able to discern those around them. We must arm our selves with the word of truth and hold it in our hearts, only then will we be able to see the wolves in sheep's clothing. He is also making a statement about righteousness, how can we help others see their sin if we are going around sinning. Our lives are a testimony to the good work Christ is doing in it. Yes we are weak and we are guilty of sin all the time but we are called to confess and repent of it.
22: You say it is wrong to commit adultery, but do you do it? You condemn idolatry, but do you steal from pagan temples?
Again we see the sins. Haven't we all looked at a handsome man and had thoughts of him in a non pure way? Our culture does this all the time with media figures and stars. Have we not pursued riches or praise instead of humbleness and Godly honor. I see this everywhere, the quest for riches. It is sad that so many believe that their problems will be solved purely by money. I am guilty of these I admit it. I want to put God first yet he comes in second or third all the time.
23-24 You are so proud of knowing the law, but you dishonor God by breaking it. No wonder the Scriptures say, "The world blasphemes the name of God because of you."
This verse stings when I read it. Paul is giving us a talking to here. I hate to think I am dishonoring God when I break the law. I have to remember grace here, I am covered with Christ and I am trying to keep my heart pure and devoted to him. When I read some commentary on these verses it said that the teachers were teaching the Gentiles about law and about making themselves right with God and they were not living for God in private. They were condemning many and leading lives filled with sin, they were stealing and lying, and worshiping other Gods. There are so many examples of verse 24 in our world today, people calling themselves Christians and yet there is no fruit to show for it. If the world sees those who are insincere in faith I fear it cancels out the many they may have seen before who were sincere. We are a walking, breathing, living representation of Christ to everyone who see us. We need to remember that and let our lights shine to everyone around us.
Dear God,
I know Angela is going through some very hard times right now. I pray that you would fill her up with your love, faith and joy. Lord bless her beyond measure, let her life be a testimony to your faithfulness. I ask this in Jesus' name. Amen
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