They claimed to be guides into God’s Kingdom — but they were standing on the outside, slamming the gate shut on those who would enter.

The hypocrisy of Israel’s false shepherds was undeniable — men who didn’t love the people, didn’t know the way, and yet presumed to speak for God. Jesus’ first woe in Matthew 23 isn’t mere condemnation; it’s the opening line of a covenantal divorce decree.

The light of the world would no longer shine through national Israel. But make no mistake — the Kingdom from heaven is still invading the earth. “The kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people producing the fruit of it” (Matthew 21:43).

With that transfer came new gatekeepers… and a new stewardship of the Keys.Christ has given those keys to His Church.

Listen as Pastor Matt Cooke traces this theme through the Old Testament and the Gospel of Matthew — and calls believers to stop bowing to those outside the gate.