Main Verse: Isaiah 51, Matthew 23:1-36)

Good morning!

            There are two types of lineages referred to in scripture: ancestral and Spiritual (Romans 9:6-9). Ancestral ancestry is proven by census information, birth records, and DNA; in the Old Testament imparts the inhabitants of Israel would go to their hometown to submit his family information and would pay a half shekel coin for each member in the family 20 years or older who could serve in the military (Exodus 30:11 – 16). The spiritual lineage is established by our attitude and behaviors which are indicative of our true spiritual lineage (Isaiah 44:1-5); consider the case of Jesus who is called the son of David (Mark 10:46 – 52). The Sanhedrin called themselves “disciples of Moses” and claimed, “Abraham is our father.” Yet Jesus called them “sons of the devil” because they were liars and complicit in the deaths of the prophets and the death of Jesus Christ (Acts 7:52), just like their spiritual father, “The Devil” (John 8:39 – 44). The Pharisees complied with the strictest requirements of an observant Jew but neglected key ingredients which would connect the heart of the Pharisees to the heart of Spiritual Israel – kindness, justice, mercy, faith, and obedience (Matthew 23:1-36- emphasis on verse 23-24).

As Gentiles, we do not have an ancestral connection to Israel. However, because of the blood of Jesus Christ shed on Calvary, we are spiritually connected to the “Branch” (Isaiah 11:1-5) if we accept him into our lives (Romans 11:17-24). In America and across the globe there are people who call themselves, “Christians” who are as far from the Lord as the apex of a mountain is from the valley. My encouragement for today is, for you to examine your life to see what your true spiritual lineage is (Matthew 3:7-12). If you need prayer, feel free to respond to this writing.

I. H. S.

MK