reading through my online bible (new american standard) this morning. this verse bowled me over. felt like i had been thirsting for something, and this drop was soaked up inside me right away...this verse hit me because months removed from much things ex-gay, i still ache...
matthew 12:7 (nav) ...I DESIRE COMPASSION, AND NOT A SACRIFICE...
the words in the verse are actually capitalized. wow. taken together with previous verses, He commanded us to use our compassion to rule, not sticking black and white to the old laws...
The reason why that the words are in capitals is because Jesus is quoting the Old Testament book of Hosea chapter 6 and verse 6:
"For I desire and delight in dutiful steadfast love and goodness, not sacrifice, and the knowledge of and acquaintance with God more than burnt offerings." (AMPLIFIED VER.)
Jesus was criticizing the religious leaders for being so cold and hypocritical in their worship and teaching of the Law, which had become so much centered upon the outward appearance rather than the inward heart. The religious leaders of Jesus day had put their traditions on the same level as God's law. THIS is why Jesus seemed to have been "re-writing" the Law in His sermon on the mount: He was actually bringing it back and what the Law of God REALLY meant...that it was supposed to help man have a relationship with God, NOT to make himself AS GOOD AS Him...which is impossible for anyone to do, except for Jesus Himself.
Dearest Jeffry; Thank you very much for that post dear. I agree with you that rather than walk in faith too many walk in sight and try to make Gods out of themselves. You blessed me with your explanation dear. Love, Samantha.
