Luke 11:37-54 "Wolves in Sheep's Clothing?"

39. Then the Lord said to him, "Now then, you Pharisees clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside you are full of greed and wickedness."

42. "Woe to you Pharisees, because you give God a tenth of your mint, rue and all other garden herbs, but you neglect justice and the love of God. You should have practiced the latter without leaving the former undone."

I'm reminded of a man who was once part of one of the three largest criminal organizations in the country, making headlines with his notorious activities. I recall how he emerged from prison carrying a Bible, claiming to have experienced conversion. He studied theology and became a pastor, but was later defrocked and went through cycles of reimprisonment and release.

Recently, another person was released from detention claiming to have read the Bible extensively while incarcerated. Despite all this Bible reading, there was no evidence of transformation. No apology, no seeking forgiveness—just sheer shamelessness.

Carrying a Bible or reading Scripture doesn't automatically mean someone is living under God's authority or following His Word. For some, the Bible is merely an accessory for self-presentation—a prop to make themselves look good in certain settings. When a different accessory becomes more useful, the Bible will disappear as if it never mattered.

We must be Christians not just outwardly but inwardly. We should never become wolves in sheep's clothing.

Righteous God, help us to be people who read the Bible and grow to resemble Jesus—living honestly and faithfully. Make us the same on the inside as we appear on the outside. Holy Spirit, grant us strength and courage. Amen.