Jesus defines the hypocrite as one who chooses to “see the speck in your neighbor’s eye but does not notice the log in your own eye.” The hypocrite is fond of saying to your neighbor, “‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,'” while the log is in your own eye” Matthew 7:3 & 4.
“1 Do not judge, so that you may not be judged. 2 For the judgment you give will be the judgment you get, and the measure you give will be the measure you get. 3 Why do you see the speck in your neighbor’s eye but do not notice the log in your own eye? 4 Or how can you say to your neighbor, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ while the log is in your own eye? 5 You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your neighbor’s eye” Matthew 7:1-5.
This is one of many texts where Jesus clearly wants every church to welcome everyone into their church. Jesus died on the cross and rose from the dead — FOR EVERYONE! Our churches, including communion, is a grace from God — FOR EVERYONE.
The point is that our focus, our love, must be in Jesus Christ. There isn’t anyone who has ever entered a church who is without sin. That’s why Jesus instituted the church, so that all of us sinner could come and receive the grace mercy of Jesus Christ. Every worship service I have ever led always begins these words: "May the grace of Our Lord Jesus Christ, the Love of God, and the Unity of the Holy Spirit be with you all.” I have never wished for the grace and love and unity of God “for just a few of you.” We pray that God may — BE WITH YOU ALL!
The next time you find yourself thinking that so-and-so doesn’t belong here, correct yourself and welcome them in the Name of Christ. “1 Do not judge, so that you may not be judged” Matthew 7:1.
Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the Living God, have mercy on me a sinner.
From the Bible:
“47 Jesus said, ‘Therefore, I tell you, this prostitute’s many sins have been forgiven, because she has shown great love. But the one to whom little is forgiven loves little.” 48 Then Jesus said to her, ‘Your sins are forgiven’” Luke 7:47-48.
“7 When they kept on questioning Jesus, he straightened up and said to them, ‘Let anyone among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.’ 8 And once again he bent down and wrote on the ground. 9 When they heard it, they went away, one by one, beginning with the elders, and Jesus was left alone with the woman standing before him. 10 Jesus straightened up and said to her, ‘Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?’ 11 She said, ‘No one, sir.’ And Jesus said, ‘Neither do I condemn you. Go your way, and from now on do not sin again’” John 8:7-11.
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