Matthew 15:7-9
Friday, July 18th, 2008Jesus said to the Scribes and Pharisees (the legalists and the self-righteous):
“Hypocrites! Well did Isaiah prophesy about you, saying:
‘These people draw near to Me with their mouth,
And honor Me with their lips,
But their heart is far from Me.
And in vain they worship Me,
Teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.’ “
Matthew 15:7-9
Have a blessed weekend!
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July 18th, 2008 at 10:47 am
Yes, SOME were self-righteous. No doubt - as all of tend to be at times. However, let us not forget that it was the Pharasaic tradition, which pre-dated the Messiah, that was instrumental in preserving the Scriptures, passing down traditions (many of which Jesus participated in) and keeping much of Judaism in tact through many years of captivity and revolt and oppression by Persians and others.
Sometimes, the Pharisees thoughtlessly get a bad report. BTW - it was a majority of the Sadducees, who denied the resurrection, who ruled the council that put Jesus under false accusation and to the death sentence.
Let us remember Nicodemus who came to Jesus and also Caiphas who basically staved off persecution against Jesus when he said that if “this movement is from God, we would be fighting aginst God.”
Let’s not paint them all with the same brush. The Pharisees contributed greatly to the legacy that we have as believers. We should have more of their commitment to the Scriptures and obedience. Doctrinally speaking, Jesus would have held most closely to Pharasaic doctrine - especially the resurrection!
Thank you for the opportunity.
Blessings to you and your ministry.