This chapter contains ‘seven woes’ for the scribes and Pharisees. Jesus repeatedly calls them out for their behaviors do not match their (or God’s) teachings (He calls them “hypocrites”).
” ‘The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat, so do and observe whatever they tell you, but not the works they do. For they preach, but do not practice. They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on people’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to move them with their finger. They do all their deeds to be seen by others.’ ” (v2-5a)
Jesus calls out the religious leaders of Israel and rebukes their behaviors. Jesus addresses them seven times saying “woe to you… hypocrites”. I think He’s saying they should be mourning and repenting of their vast sin. He makes many strong accusations against these leaders including pride, misdirection, and even murder (they kill prophets, the true messengers of God).
God has granted these religious leaders spiritual authority over the people, and Jesus commands people to obey them, but in the same breath says not to act like them (having false hearts, motives and behaviors).
This warning is also true for us today. If a human authorities’ teaching is in alignment with God’s teaching, we should obey it, otherwise we need to obey God as the ultimate moral authority. In other words, we should compare all teaching to God’s, relying on the Spirit’s discernment, and only follow that which is in alignment with Him. Note – I encourage you to exercise this discernment with everything I write as well.
Father God, our Sovereign and Most High Lord, You are the ultimate authority in all realms. May we learn to bow to You alone, and prayerfully bring matters before You to discern Your will. May we submit to reliable teaching, and humble our hearts to heed Your voice. In the name of Jesus our Redeemer and Instructor we praise Your holy name, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training