Often appearances can be deceiving. We may be impressed by someone’s outer appearance as they say long prayers or receive respectful greetings, but what are they really like? Not everyone who gives the appearance of following God and loving others truly does so. In fact, sometimes, they are complete hypocrites.
38In His teaching He was saying: “Beware of the scribes who like to walk around in long robes, and like respectful greetings in the market places, 39and chief seats in the synagogues and places of honor at banquets, 40who devour widows’ houses, and for appearance’s sake offer long prayers; these will receive greater condemnation.”
Do not focus too much on the appearance someone may portray that makes them look important. Seek instead to judge them by their actions and motives. A pastor of a large church may seem impressive in his slick suit and big smile, but is he teaching scripture correctly or is he just tickling peoples ears with what they want to hear so he can feel important and popular and respected?
Not only should we pay attention to this scripture as we seek to identify genuine leaders from false ones, but also we must challenge ourselves to focus on what is important to God rather than just putting up good appearances before people… lest we be the ones who receive greater condemnation.
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