Spiritual Leadership | Oshkosh | October 05, 2025

This sermon on Matthew 23 highlights Jesus’ final public warning about spiritual leadership, exposing the failures of the scribes and Pharisees while instructing both followers and leaders of Christ today. Jesus condemns leaders who possess outward authority but lack integrity, compassion, and humility—men who preach truth without living it, burden others without helping them, seek recognition rather than service, and elevate themselves instead of God. The message calls believers to be discerning about who they allow to shape their spiritual lives, since eternity is influenced by spiritual leadership, and also reminds every Christian that discipleship is a shared responsibility. True spiritual leaders are called and sent by God, live what they teach, shepherd people with compassion, and lead with humility, serving rather than seeking status. Ultimately, Christ alone is the true Teacher, and godly leadership reflects His heart by pointing people to Him, not to self.