Wrap-Up

It’s easy to criticize religious leaders for their hypocrisy, right? Jesus contrasted those who pray or give for public display with those whose righteousness is found in private sincerity. 

But there’s something here for all of us to consider. What does a deeper righteousness really look like? And where are we likely to be at risk for empty ritual and self-serving abuse in the name of religion? Does that mean that organized religion is the problem in and of itself? I think you heard the answer. Jesus said mercy is more important than ritual, that we should do the more important things while not neglecting the less important things. 

In the next lesson we’ll turn to a familiar topic, the Kingdom of God. Matthew has something important to add to what we’ve already learned.