Matthew 23:2-12;
In this Matthew text, what is true of the Pharisees? Is God impressed with their works? Why did they do all the work? Did they love others? Why did Christ tell His disciples to not follow their example? What happens when we put on people loads that Christ never made? How does Christ want us to act? Today, be a servant to someone who normally you are over.
Leviticus 17:10-14
Why does the letter written to the Gentile church in Acts 15 include abstaining from eating blood? What does it mean that God sets his face against such a person? What does it mean that the life is in the blood? What is the blood for in sacrifice? What do these concepts mean in the context of Christ shedding His blood on the cross? Today thank Him for giving you life through His atonement on the cross.
John 15:1-5
What is the imagery of Christ saying here? Who is the vine? Who are the branches? Are there other vines out there in your life trying to attach themselves to you? What are they? What makes Christ the true vine? Are you attached to Him today? In what way are you fully attached? How is Christ’s presence in you being seen in your life? What evidence of fruit that fits God’s vision for your life is evident? If there is no fruit, either God is putting down your spiritual roots, maturing your branch to be able to bear the weight of fruit or you are a cut off branch – totally outside of God’s will and vision for you. Which of these might be true for you? What is the promise offered in vs. 5 about bearing fruit? Ask God to make you a branch that bears much fruit.