Someone has said, "Temper is what gets most of us into trouble. Pride is what keeps us there."
It was a Sabbath day and Jesus had been invited to the house of a ruler among the Pharisees. Jesus healed a man on that occasion and denounced those present for their hypocrisy, saying, "Which one of you shall have a son or an ox fall into a well, and will not immediately pull him out on a Sabbath day?" Jesus received no
answer (14:1-6). Jesus then took the opportunity to address those in attendance and the host. To the guests He empha- sized the importance of humility. Instead of seeking prominence and position He emphasized the humble spirit that should make up the heart of those who are citizens of His kingdom (14:7-11). To the host He taught that motive is important. Even in extending an invitation for dinner, one may be concerned with what they can gain in return, and how men perceive them instead of pleasing the heavenly Father (14:12-14). Hypocrisy, pride, seeking positions of honor, and being overly concerned with pleasing their peers are things still keeping many from accepting the truth of the gospel.
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