(J.D. King) Due to distorted purposes and identity, first-century religious leaders within Judaism implemented a misguided approach to things. Twisted forms of religion not only affected their understanding of faith, but also marred their efforts to expand the “community of faith.” Confronting this problem on one occasion, Jesus declared the following,
“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! You travel sea and land to make one proselyte, and when he becomes one, you make him twice as much a son of hell as yourselves” (Matt. 23:15)
Fierce forms of proselytism and critique were continually being expressed by the Pharisees. They were restless in their efforts. Yet their zeal was in vain. Just because there’s scriptural knowledge and a desire to share one’s beliefs doesn’t mean God’s kingdom is actually advancing. In this instance, it’s clear that the Pharisees were causing more harm than good. READ MORE
