Back to Basics

Jesus’ way of thinking and style reversed that of the scribes, Pharisees, and priests. When they wanted to speak with authority, they said, “As Rabbi Nicodemus taught…” They referred to a regulation, precept, or teaching by a famous predecessor.

Jesus, on the other hand, made statements like this one in the Sermon on the Mount: “You have heard that it was said… But I say to you…” (Matthew 5:27-44). He was not contradicted Moses’ laws or destroyed what God had commanded in the past, rather, He showed that the religious leaders had made gods out of the commandments that were supposed to guide them to live in community and worship God.

In Jesus’ day the religious leaders and leading scholars debated endlessly the question, “What is the greatest commandment?” Jesus clarified that easily enough when they asked Him (probably trying to trick Him): “Which is the first commandment of all?” (Mark 12:28).

Jesus answered by quoting from Moses’ laws:

“’You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength…’ The second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbour as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” (v. 30-31).

Jesus had a “Back to Basics” thinking and attitude. He knew God’s laws were meant to help – not hinder – people in living fulfilled lives. He puts the emphasis where it belonged – on compassion, love, faithfulness to others and to God – not on outward behaviour. So, I'm asking, do you have "Back to Basics" thinking and attitude? I'm not asking do you have "Back to Basics" t-shirt or slogan or huddle - but are you inside out "Back to Basics" like Jesus? 

THINK BIG. START SMALL. GO DEEP.