Woe - Gnats and Camels

1. Read Matthew 23:23-24

2. How is focusing our attention on the wrong priorities a form of hypocrisy before God?

3. Jesus claimed the pharisees would strain out a gnat referring to a focus on their traditions and ornate laws. Today, what “gnats” could we be straining out? Give examples.

4. Jesus also claimed the pharisees would, in turn, swallow a whole camel referring to the neglect of the more important things of God. What important (weightier) things of God could we focus rather than neglect?

5. Consider the additional text Nathan shared from Matthew 15:1-9. Read and discuss the problem(s) that Jesus pointed out here and how this is a similar problem pointed out in Matthew 23.

6. Nathan made the assertion that we are so easily distracted and this is, in part, the work of Satan in our realm. Read the scriptural references warning this and discuss. (1 Peter 5:8-9 and James 4:7-8)

7. After reading 1 Peter 5:8-9 and James 4:7-8, discuss certain words and phrases put forth in those verses: alert, sober-minded, standing firm, resist, draw near to God, purify, double-minded.

8. Consider the more important matters Jesus described in our scripture: justice, mercy and faithfulness. Explain in your own words what you think those entail.

9. Read Micah 6:8 and discuss what the prophet said the Lord requires of us.

10. Discuss further the clear indication of what our focus should be: justice, mercy and faithfulness. Look up definitions of these words for yourself.

11. Discuss the quote from Charles Spurgeon: “Every Christian is either a missionary or an imposter” What does Spurgeon imply here?

12. Consider the list of more important matters that Nathan listed: your children’s spiritual development, your employees, the widow, the orphans, the poverty stricken family, the addict, the homeless, the co-worker. Which one hits home to you? Which example could be your “important matter” to attend to?

13. The “important matters” are difficult, require more sacrifice and more time. How do we make sure we focus on them?