Jesus always seemed to be picking fights with the Pharisees. But who were they, anyway?
Talking Points:
- The Pharisees were a powerful Jewish sect, exercising considerable influence over the Sanhedrin (Jewish high council).
- The populist Pharisees often fought with the aristocratic Sadducees – most notably fighting over the doctrine of resurrection.
- The Pharisees were committed to ritual purity – and often missed the point behind God’s Law. Matthew 23:2-4
- Jesus warned that no one can be saved by their own works – not even a die-hard Pharisee. Matthew 5:20
- Even the most hard-hearted Pharisees can be redeemed – if they’ll trust Jesus for salvation. Philippians 3:6-7
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Read Acts 23:8. How did Pharisees and Sadducees view resurrection differently? Which group would have been more open to the Christian message?
- Is ritual purity good or bad? Explain your answer.
- Read Matthew 5:20. What does it mean to have a righteousness that surpasses the Pharisees?
- Read Philippians 3:5-8. How do you think a Pharisee like Saul could have come to this position on Jesus?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
