Matthew 15:1-20

15:12 "Then the disciples came and said to Him, 'Do You know that the Pharisees were offended when they heard this statement?' "

This verse cracked me up! I find this especially amusing in light of those who distort Jesus to be some kind of hippie preaching "make love, not war!" Jesus preached truth. Truth in love, of course, but always the truth. And if the truth offends, then so be it.

Now, I will be the first to admit that I personally can get carried away with this idea of preaching truth no matter what and step on some toes unnecessarily, but it is important to see Jesus' priority here. In matters of fundamental doctrine, preaching truth is what matters most. What was Jesus confronting in this scene? Faulty understanding of sin propagated by false teaching! The Pharisees were indoctrinating their congregations with the idea that outward obedience constituted righteousness. This false teaching was creating in them a stumbling block because it completely ignored and covered up the reality of sin harbored in their hearts!

Jesus could have done the considerate thing. He could have ordered up a "how to eat bread" debate and convention, implemented some focus groups to see what the people thought, and hired some public relations professionals to figure out how to roll out suggestions for improving the current traditions. All the while, though, people would be dying not understanding that they are sinful and need a savior. In light of that fact, does that second option really sound considerate?

Jesus was considerate. He was concerned about people's sin! People have to know that they are sinful before they can understand they need a savior! That is what is most important, and faced with offending someone or lovingly telling them the truth, I hope I choose the truth. Many times, I do opt to dance around the harsh truth or continually "wait for a better opportunity." I need to tell the truth.

*"Tell the Truth" is a great book, by the way, by Will Metzger*

Lord, help me to tell the truth. Help me to tell the truth in love, and always with a goal to glorify Your name and make Your plan of salvation known to all. Help me to be more bold in this matter.