We now turn to chapter 23 of Matthew verses 1-12.

Here Jesus speaks to the crowds and His disciples who were following Him.

As He speaks to His disciples he uncovers the attitudes and practices of the Pharisees.

The problem was the hypocrisy of these leaders. Their motives were not right -- as Dr. Mitchell explains.

He also points out that Jesus was speaking, not to the church, but to the Jews of His day, who were under the laws of Moses. The church had not yet come into existence.

He then challenge you and me with being aware of one’s motives in the things of God. Why do we serve the Lord? Is God’s glory at the heart?

Jesus teaches about seeking special recognition from people. This too reveal the motives of the heart.

In Matthew 23:12, here’s Dr. Mitchell on the Unchanging Word Bible Broadcast.