I’m really enjoying reading through Scot McKnight’s translation of the New Testament. The choice of wording has consistently sparked my imagination and helped me to “see” certain aspects of familiar stories in fresh ways.

One example comes from Matthew 23: 3.

In that verse, Jesus points to the Jewish scribes and Pharisees and tells his audience that they should avoid emulating those two groups, and here’s his reasoning:

“Therefore, do and observe whatever they say, but don’t do consistent with their works, for they say and don’t do.”

“They say and don’t do.”

Ouch!

With that phrase, Jesus reminds us that, when it comes to God’s will and way, the expectation is to do it, not just recite it.

We are also reminded, by Jesus’ assessment of the scribes and Pharisees, that when we don’t do what we say – or live out our beliefs – we forfeit our right to be teachers, role models, and advisors/mentors. And this is a practical reality more than anything else, because people won’t follow those who don’t practice what they preach.

I don’t want to be included in the “they say and don’t do” group…which means that I need to become more consistent in certain areas of my walk with Christ.

What about you?