Analyzing Spiritual Commitment: Actor or Authentic?

This is “Oscar Sunday.”   Tonight actors await the unveiling of those whom are considered most successful at their trade.  Did you know the word Jesus used for “hypocrite” was the Greek word used of an actor?  The ancient theaters made use of masks and voice alterations so that a single actor could play multiple roles.  The better the actor the more characters they could play.

When it comes to spiritual commitment “acting” (or hypocrisy) does not reward one with golden streets.  Jesus pronounced serious consequences on those whose spiritual service was simply an act.

Conversely, authenticity is one of the greatest building blocks to spiritual commitment!   This lesson will examine six characteristics of “actors” from Matthew chapter twenty-three.  Then use a character from the New Testament to illustrate some outstanding traits of authenticity.