Church notes - 2nd March 2025

[fardell24]

John 3:16, 17

Matthew 23:1 - 24:2

Cosmetic Fixation
Not just a problem back then.
Outward focused.

The religious leaders were obsessed with their image.
They were the elite.

The authority doesn't come from the person up the front. It comes from Scripture and from God.
vs 16 - 18

Jesus was pointing out that oaths and finicky rules don't work.

vs 25, 25
Don't be legalistic. Focus on what's inside; on motives and the heart.

Deuteronomy 14:22, 28
Generosity to the poor.

The teachers of the Law were not being generous (using loopholes to avoid being so).

vs 27, 28
Jesus was pointing out their hypocracy and insulting them; daring them to kill Him.

He was prophesying the persecution of the disciples and the destruction of the Temple in 70 AD.

Psalm 118

Judgement, but also forgiveness.
Judgement and mercy.