Sunday, July 18, 2010

"REND YOUR HEART"...or Don't be a hypocrite!

"Rend your hearts and not your garments." Return to the LORD your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love.'...Joel 2:13 (ESV).


Leviticus 21:10 carries the command from God which says the High Priest of Jerusalem should NOT tear his clothes and keep himself up to mark in appearance. But in Matthew 26:65, the obtuse Caiaphas proceeded to do just precisely the same thing, when he accused Jesus of "blasphemy".
It is a known fact that some of the Pharisees used to wear pre-torn garments to make it appear they were outraged about something, or even, super-religious. John 19:23-24 carries the account of the Roman soldiers dividing up Jesus' clothing after they executed Him (to fulfill Scripture). One thing stood out - His seamless, full length undergarment. This one they left intact.  Clothing had special significance in Bible times and Jesus' inner garment had no pretear and in fact was the tunic of a High Priest! (He is our High Priest and ever lives to make intercession for us.)
Again, this fact alone show Christ to be the embodiment AND the fulfillment of the Law....while hypocrites violate it. Joel 2 is a directive from Holy God to"kawrah" or tear up your own heart or come broken hearted with your sin or shortcoming before the Lord...and He will be merciful.

In other words - don't be a show-boating hypocrite like Caiaphas, simply and humbly stand before Him, who loves you and is full of Grace! 
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2 comments:

Nikole Hahn said...

I did not know that. I'm using this as a guest spot for August 5. Hope you don't mind. :o)

The Bernie Lutchman Blog said...

:-)) I am most honored you would do that my sister!! Thank you!! Blessings and joy in the Lord!!

Feel free to use anything at anytime!
bernie