First Baptist Church

Have you ever thought about what is really important?  Jesus taught about the important things and the Pharisees continually tried to trip him up.  Jesus wanted to clarify the end, keep the focus. The Pharisees preferred to flex their spiritual muscles and theological intellect. (Great distraction even for us - from doing what we know we should do)  After Jesus silenced the leaders in Matthew 22, they got together and asked, "Teacher which is the greatest commandment in the Law?" We know Jesus gave the Pharisees the answer,"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.  This is the first and greatest commandment."  Everyone paused for a moment - Jesus had done it.  He handled the Pharisees, but then Jesus added, "and".  The disciples were probably thinking, "Oh no, what is he going to add."  What can you add to the Shema? Jesus said, "The second is like it, Love your neighbour as yourself."  Jesus is saying to everyone listening, your relationship with God affects everything else, including loving your neighbour and yourself.  No wonder Augustine is quoted as saying, "Love God and do what you like."  Our love for God affects everything!!  Now that is important!