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This week, we commence looking at Luke Chapter 12. Please read verses 1-12 every day this week and, if possible use a different translation each day, asking God to open your eyes to fresh revelation from His Word.
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Luke 12:1-4 (NIV)
‘Meanwhile, when a crowd of many thousands had gathered, so that they were trampling on one another, Jesus began to speak first to his disciples, saying: “Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in the ear in the inner rooms will be proclaimed from the roofs. “I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more.’
As we begin our studies of chapter 12, I’m going to discuss these first 4 verses over two separate devotions.
It’s amazing to see what God is doing here at Oasis Community Church. We are incredibly blessed in so, so many ways and we see God at work every time we meet. It’s also quite clear that God is doing something quite remarkable in the lives of the congregation. We have recently heard people share their life story and we can do nothing more than just to sit back, say ‘wow’ and then release our praise to God. We are seeing so many lives being transformed by God’s power and we are in awe of the way God is then releasing this people into service. God is so good.
We have also seen a huge increase in the number of people attending the church. We are more than aware that church growth isn’t just about having more people fill the chairs but it is staggering to see so many people attending week after week.
In our verses this morning, perhaps there is a warning to us as leaders and mature Christians. As the crowds get bigger, Jesus specifically gives warnings to the disciples. Previously, Jesus was talking to the Pharisees, now He’s talking about them to the disciples.
What is causing the crowds to grow so large? Perhaps they’re following Jesus because of the miracles He’s performing, perhaps some are even following to see what happens between Him and the continued conflict with the Pharisees. There are some people who like to keep up to date with arguments. Facebook has its fair share of conflicts and there are always people who throng to watch what’s happening.
If a fight breaks out in the street, there is never a shortage of onlookers. No-one helps, but they’re happy to watch.
Jesus warns about the ‘yeast of the Pharisees which is hypocrisy’. Essentially this means ‘play-acting’. It’s all about hiding the real self behind a mask. It smacks of insincerity, dishonesty and deception.
God forbid in Oasis, that we see the rise of hypocrisy as the ‘crowds get bigger’. May our focus be entirely on the Lord, on His work and on our whole-hearted service to Him.
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