We all know what sin is, and that all sin is equally bad in God’s sight. However, Christians in different ages and cultures tend to focus on some sins as worse than others. Today we single out sexual sins, addictions, theft, murder, etc. as especially bad while overlooking sins such as gluttony, gossip, greed, self-righteousness, worry, coveting, etc. But what sins did Jesus condemn most harshly? Which did He focus on? Shouldn’t those be ones we emphasize as well? We concentrate on things like love, forgive, help, worship and serving others which Jesus told us to do. But what about the things He strongly tells us to not do? Let’s look at some of them.
SELFISHNESS: Jesus was very humble and wants us to be that way as well. He said: “the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many”(Matthew 20:28, Mark 10:45). The story of the rich man and Lazarus shows the great punishment selfish people will receive (Luke 16:19-31). We are to focus on others, not ourselves (Matthew 20:25-28). Are you selfish? Would Jesus say you are selfish?
PRIDE: Closely connected to selfishness is pride. It often disguises itself in more socially acceptable ways, but at its bottom it is still thinking more of ourselves than others. Jesus warned against the consequences of pride as well (Luke 20:45-47). The parable of the Pharisee and tax collector reveals how God sees spiritual pride (Luke 18:9-14). Remember, “All those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” (Luke 18:9-14) Are you proud? Would Jesus say you are proud?
LACK OF FAITH: Jesus was often disappointed at the lack of faith in his disciples and followers. He probably is today as well. They missed out on many blessings because of not having faith in Him (Matthew 16:1-4). So do we. We can clearly see our lack of faith when look at the things we fear and worry about. Do you sometimes lack faith? Would Jesus say your faith is often weak?
HYPOCRISY: Criticizing Christians as being hypocrites is a popular way for unbelievers to excuse their unbelief. Unfortunately, though, it can be easy to see sin and inconsistency in the lives of many who claim to be Christians. Jesus repeatedly condemned hypocrisy in the strongest possible terms. Outwardly the religious rulers did everything right, but their hearts were filthy. They were just going through the motions. Jesus called them ‘blind guides’ and ‘a brood of vipers’ (Matthew 22:13-19). What would He say about you? Are you a hypocrite? Does Jesus see hypocrisy in your life?
GREED: Jesus talked about money and material possessions more than any other topic. He made it clear no one can serve two masters. We either life for God or material possessions (Matthew 6:24). If money and belongings are the most important things in our life, Jesus cannot be first. We know that the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil (1 Timothy 6:10), yet we live in a culture that emphasizes its importance in multiple ways. We grow up with many possessions and still we want more. Wealth is the yardstick used to define our status and our success in life. Jesus pleaded with His followers to put the Kingdom of God first (Matthew 6:33). When we lay aside our greed, we are able to give what we have with joy. Jesus honors this virtue as seen in the poor widow who gave all she had as an offering (Mark 12:41-44). She gave out of her poverty rather than her wealth. Are you materialistic and greedy, always wanting a little more? Would Jesus say you are?
We will look at more sins that Jesus emphasized in our next blog.
Psalm 139:23-24 Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
Do you struggle with any of these sins? If so, confess any sin that hasn’t been confessed and ask God to help you have victory over the sin. Ask him make you alert of it from now on.
cto Rev. Dr. JERRY SCHMOYER
Christian Training Organization
Jerry@ChristianTrainingOrganization.org
(India & Africa Outreach, Spiritual Warfare, Family Ministries, Counseling, World View)
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