"It is easier for heaven and earth to disappear than for the least stroke of a pen to drop out of the Law." Luke 16:17
Manipulating the Word of God for our own purposes is not a modern invention. So many in our day have attempted to replace the requirements of the Law with the gift of grace. Yet grace doesn't release us from the pursuit of righteousness. In fact, it requires more of us.
Now... we know better.
Jesus faced the issues of the people picking and choosing which laws to follow as He dealt with the Pharisees. Although they were strict in their tithing, they loved money - just as we do. Like today, divorce had apparently become commonplace; otherwise, Jesus may not have stated that a man who divorces and remarries commits adultery. Materialism and selfish greed left no room for generosity. He walked among a people who were corrupt - despite all appearances of propriety. They didn't learn the truth from Him - even after seeing Him rise from the dead.
When will we?
Lord, we live in a country that continues its shrewd distortion of the truth for personal gain. What You have always said to be wrong is being made right in the eyes of the people. Protect me - protect my family from the distortions of the enemy.
Give me compassion for the lost.