If our goal is looking for hidden sin in others—or finding a flaw in their logic—or revealing their financial blunder—we best beware. There is a good chance we’re no longer seeking truth.
It may even mean we feel threatened—that we’re looking for problems in others so we can hide our own guilt.
This was the case of the Pharisees or the religious authorities of Jesus' time. Jesus confronted their deceit. He spoke of how they strictly followed legal requirements while failing to show mercy. He spoke of their desire for public recognition. Then He expanded His indictment to include Scribes and Lawyers as well.
That Jesus was speaking truth was obvious to everyone. The only defense for these leaders was to find fault in Jesus. That might take the attention away from themselves. So, the scribes and the Pharisees began to assail Him vehemently, and to cross-examine Him about many things, lying in wait for Him, and seeking to catch Him in something He might say, that they might accuse Him. (Lk. 11:53b,54) They weren’t seeking truth.
If they had taken Jesus’ words to heart they could have received from Him. They didn’t want to hear someone who would challenge their comfortable world.
Originally published September 18, 1992.
Picture: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2008. Photo by Solveig.
It may even mean we feel threatened—that we’re looking for problems in others so we can hide our own guilt.
This was the case of the Pharisees or the religious authorities of Jesus' time. Jesus confronted their deceit. He spoke of how they strictly followed legal requirements while failing to show mercy. He spoke of their desire for public recognition. Then He expanded His indictment to include Scribes and Lawyers as well.
That Jesus was speaking truth was obvious to everyone. The only defense for these leaders was to find fault in Jesus. That might take the attention away from themselves. So, the scribes and the Pharisees began to assail Him vehemently, and to cross-examine Him about many things, lying in wait for Him, and seeking to catch Him in something He might say, that they might accuse Him. (Lk. 11:53b,54) They weren’t seeking truth.
If they had taken Jesus’ words to heart they could have received from Him. They didn’t want to hear someone who would challenge their comfortable world.
Originally published September 18, 1992.
Picture: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2008. Photo by Solveig.
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