This episode initially highlights the misplaced morality of the Pharisees and then applies the Biblical standard of "goodness" to the worldview of unbelievers confident in their own goodness. Christ took issue with the overemphasis of the Pharisees on issues such as tithing combined with neglect of the "weightier provisions of the law" like "justice, mercy and faithfulness." (Mt 23:23) Christ was likely alluding to Micah 6:8, a succinct description of mankind's obligation to God, doing justice, loving mercy and walking humbly with God. Many Pharisees focused on external matters like tithing instead of the essence of the Law. The episode applies Micah 6:8 to the worldview of most unbelievers, noting that justice, mercy and humility before God are redefined or thrown out. The Biblical standard of justice or righteousness is entirely wrapped up in love of God and neighbor. The world at best gives lip-service to God but then proceeds to redefine "justice" and "goodness" in terms of social norms where God is not remotely in view. "Mercy" for most moderns means tolerance of other people and practices without reference to an objective standard. Christians, by contrast, are called to extend mercy, and this mercy presupposes not executing judgment or being judgmental despite people's failure to meet God's absolute standards. Finally, Biblical humility naturally doesn't describe unbelievers since they don't acknowledge God's Lordship.
“Don’t Let Sin Issues Go to Waste!”mourn
This final episode centers on the process of sanctification, the ongoing experience of the Holy Spirit conforming believers into the image of Christ. Once a believer becomes a temple of the Holy Spirit, the Indwelling Spirit has much to say about our living conditions. And while the Paraclete comforts us, reminding us of our secure position in Christ as heirs of Christ, He also makes us miserable and anxious over unconfessed sin, driving us back to Christ as the source of grace. He works "godly sorrow that leads to repentance." (2 Corinthians 7:10) The episode highlights the Holy Spirit's confrontation with David over his sin in Psalm 32, leading to his restoration where he is "surrounded by songs of deliverance." The episode closes with the admonition to cooperate with the Holy Spirit in our struggles with sin, as this is paradoxically the means by which we draw closer to God and receive His comforting grace.