POOR LEADERSHIP: Matthew 15:1-14
©2003 by Gene Brooks Home

Notes partially from Chuck Swindoll

1. When human opinion is valued above the Word of God. (v. 3-6)
2. When hypocrisy prevails over authenticity (v. 7-11)
3. When money is being handled to suit oneself and not to honor the Lord (v. 5)
4. When trusted, capable leadership is not honored (v. 4-6)
5. When rules and policies are put in place without consulting those who will be affected (v. 3, 9)
1. Jesus is railing against the rules laid down by the rabbis called the "Tradition of the Elders," which is an interpretation and policy manual on how to live a holy life. For example, since priests are required to ritually wash before entering the Temple, and since a man's body is his Temple, a man (like a priest) should wash ritually before sitting down at his table (the altar) to eat his food (sacrifice).
2. See Colossians 2:20-23 on legalism.
6. When things are done for the sake of appearance and are not from the heart (v. 8)
7. When outward behavior is honored more than inner heart life and having a good appearance is enough to cover black deeds done behind the scenes (v. 7-10).
8. When personal offense is taken if anyone asks for accountability (v. 12)

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOU FIND YOURSELF UNDER POOR LEADERSHIP?

1. Remember that positional leadership is not necessarily God-ordained, Spirit-anointed leadership.
2. Be confident that God will take them out with impunity at His timing. His discipline will be severe.
3. "Leave them. They are blind guides" (v. 14). If you don't, you will find regret it and waste the time you have left on this earth for the Kingdom's work.