Day 30 - When Religion NEeds a Reset

by Grace Outlaw

Matthew 22-23

     One thing I think many Christians tend to forget, is that Jesus saved his harshest words not for the prostitutes or tax collectors, but for the Jewish religious leaders! To the Sadducees who challenged him, he responded, “You are in error because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God” (Matthew 22:29). To the Pharisees who tested him, wanting to trap him by his own words, Jesus called them out directly, saying, “You hypocrites! Why are you trying to trap me?” (Matthew 22:18).

     His critique of the religious leaders wasn’t about failed theology exams. He didn’t rebuke them for not praying enough or tithing enough… He condemned their hearts. The Pharisees and Sadducees were so busy pretending to be holy and righteous, that they missed the message of Jesus all together: Love one another. The religious leaders used their faith – a mask of perfect piety – to hide the rotting foundations beneath.

     Their story is not one relegated to ancient history – it is a mirror for anyone who has ever prioritized rules over people, appearances over authenticity, or personal gain over sacrificial service.

     But Jesus also invited us to turn religion as the Pharisees knew it upside down. “The greatest among you will be your servant. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted” (Matthew 23:11-12). This inversion ethic made frequent appearances in Jesus’ teachings, and was a big part of what infuriated the religious leaders about him! The path to spiritual vitality isn’t climbing higher (over others) – it’s kneeling lower.

     And just like the religious leaders of Jesus’ day, this truth can sometimes feel as countercultural now as it did then, because honestly? Loving others can be hard. 

     So what are some things we can do today to ensure we don’t fall into the same behavior as the Pharisees?

1. Audit your ‘altars’ – What ‘minor idols’ distract you from loving others? It could be something internal (busyness and prioritizing your to-do list over taking time for someone), or something about them (*cough cough* to the guy who cuts me off in traffic).

2. Serve in secret – It can be a small act of kindness as simple as praying for someone or writing an encouraging note – but whatever it is, do it anonymously! “When you pray, go in your room, shut the door and pray…” (Matthew 6:6).

3. Reconciliation rounds – Check in with yourself and see if you’ve been harboring some resentment towards anyone. If there is any tension or conflict in a relationship, address it! “If you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember your brother has something against you… first go and be reconciled” (Matthew 5:23-24).

     The religious leaders’ flaw wasn’t a lack of zeal, but one of misdirected worship of themselves and their own reputation. Instead of racing for the best seats in the church on a Sunday morning, I want us to challenge ourselves to make sure we don’t prioritize projects to the extent that we miss the people.

     After all, the Greatest Commandment is “Love the Lord your God with all your heart… and the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:37-39).