Getting Started

Jesus came to love and care for people, and eventually to die for us. But His message was more than “love your neighbor.” It had a “bite” to it, especially when He addressed religious leaders. I’m sure you’ve heard about Pharisees and Sadducees and probably have a stereotype in your mind of the kind of hypocrites Jesus often faced.

But as we go into this lesson, remember that the religious leaders of Jesus’ day were not unlike those in our own churches. They were promoting godly living and believed they were the voice of God in a society often compromising with pagan values. So, let’s see if we can be realistic about the message of judgment, even if it hits close to home.