In the midst of the joyous celebration of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, there were those who could not see the truth standing before them. The Pharisees, blinded by their pride and religious mindset, failed to recognize the Messiah. This serves as a cautionary tale for us today. At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we strive to “Be the change as Jesus has changed us,” and this requires humility and a genuine relationship with Christ.
The Pharisees’ Pride: Missing the Messiah
The Pharisees were entrenched in their religious pride, unable to accept a Savior who came in humility. Their hearts were hardened, and their eyes were blinded by their own expectations. Isaiah 29:13 warns, “These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.” Jesus wept for them, knowing the tragedy of their rejection.
Share: Proclaiming the True King
Our mission is to share the true message of Jesus with others, breaking through misconceptions and revealing His love and grace. In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus commissions us to “go and make disciples of all nations.” This involves sharing our faith stories, living out the Gospel, and inviting others to experience the transformative power of Jesus. By sharing His love, we help others move from spectatorship to discipleship.
Nicodemus: A Pharisee Transformed
Not all Pharisees remained blind. Nicodemus, a Pharisee who sought Jesus, found transformation through a personal encounter with Him (John 3:1-21). His story reminds us that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace. When we focus on a relationship with Jesus rather than religious piety, we open ourselves to the life-changing power of His love.
Conclusion: Cultivating a Heart of Humility
The story of the Pharisees serves as a warning against pride and a call to cultivate a heart of humility. At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we are committed to “Be the change as Jesus has changed us” through “Just 3” – Study, Share, Serve. Let us seek a genuine relationship with Jesus, allowing His love to transform us and guide us in sharing His message with the world.
