Bible Study 07 FEB

<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p> </o:p>Matthew 23:1: Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples,
   2: Saying, The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat:
   3: All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not.
   4: For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers.
   5: But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments,
   6: And love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues,
   7: And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi.
   8: But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren.
   9: And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven.
   10: Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ.
   11: But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.
   12: And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.<o:p></o:p><o:p> </o:p>

Jesus spent a great deal of his ministry teaching the disciples the importance of humility.  It was pride and arrogance that had drove the hearts of the Jewish leaders away from God.  They were more interested in position and the praise of men then worship of God.  If they had truly knew the scriptures they would of recognize who Jesus was.  The disciple had a tough mission ahead of them and for them to be successful they had to put their own ambition and desires aside and submit wholly to the will of God.  They same is true of us.  To be a true servant of Christ we have to submit wholly to the will of God.