Topical Encyclopedia In the context of the Bible, "malice" refers to the intention or desire to do evil or cause harm to others. This concept is often explored in relation to the behavior and attitudes of certain groups, including the scribes, who were influential religious leaders and scholars in Jewish society during the time of Jesus.Scribes in the Bible Scribes were experts in the Law of Moses and played a crucial role in Jewish religious life. They were responsible for copying, teaching, and interpreting the Scriptures. As such, they held significant authority and were often associated with the Pharisees, another prominent religious group. Despite their esteemed position, the New Testament frequently highlights instances where the scribes exhibited malice, particularly towards Jesus and His teachings. Malice of the Scribes 1. Opposition to Jesus: The scribes are often depicted as opposing Jesus, seeking to undermine His authority and discredit His teachings. In Mark 3:22 , it is recorded, "And the scribes who had come down from Jerusalem were saying, 'He is possessed by Beelzebul,' and, 'By the prince of demons He drives out demons.'" This accusation reflects their malicious intent to tarnish Jesus' reputation and influence among the people. 2. Conspiracy and Deception: The scribes, along with the chief priests, plotted against Jesus, demonstrating their malice through deceit and conspiracy. In Mark 14:1 , it is noted, "Now the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread were two days away, and the chief priests and scribes were looking for a way to arrest Jesus covertly and kill Him." Their willingness to resort to covert actions highlights their deep-seated animosity. 3. Hypocrisy and Legalism: Jesus frequently rebuked the scribes for their hypocrisy and legalistic tendencies, which were often rooted in malice. In Matthew 23:27-28 , Jesus declares, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men’s bones and every kind of impurity. In the same way, on the outside you appear to be righteous, but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness." This condemnation underscores their malicious nature, as they prioritized outward appearances over genuine righteousness. 4. Testing and Trapping Jesus: The scribes frequently attempted to trap Jesus with difficult questions, hoping to find grounds to accuse Him. In Luke 11:53-54 , it is recorded, "As Jesus went on from there, the scribes and Pharisees began to oppose Him bitterly and to ply Him with questions about many things, waiting to catch Him in something He might say." Their persistent efforts to ensnare Jesus reveal their malicious intent to discredit Him. Theological Implications The malice of the scribes serves as a cautionary example of how religious authority can be corrupted by pride, hypocrisy, and a desire for power. Their actions remind believers of the importance of humility, sincerity, and a genuine commitment to God's truth. The scribes' opposition to Jesus ultimately fulfilled God's redemptive plan, as their malice led to the crucifixion, which was central to the salvation narrative. In summary, the scribes' malice is a recurring theme in the New Testament, illustrating the dangers of religious hypocrisy and the rejection of divine truth. Their interactions with Jesus provide valuable lessons on the importance of aligning one's heart and actions with the teachings of Scripture. Torrey's Topical Textbook Mark 11:18And the scribes and chief priests heard it, and sought how they might destroy him: for they feared him, because all the people was astonished at his doctrine. Torrey's Topical Textbook Luke 11:54 Library Whether Christ Should have Preached to the Jews Without Offending ... The Anger and Grief of Jesus The Folly and Danger of Parting with Christ for the Pleasures and ... The Demoniac Boy Jesus Before the Jewish Rulers. Ch. 22:63-71 The God of the Rain The Teacher with Authority Christ's People --Imitators of Him Acts xxiii. 8-Jun An Attempt to Account for Jesus Resources What does the Bible say about war? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about conflict resolution? | GotQuestions.org Dealing with mean people-what does the Bible say? | GotQuestions.org Malice: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Malfeasance in office: The Leasees of the Vineyard, in One of the Parables of Jesus Malfeasance in office: The Steward Mentioned in One of the Parables of Jesus Malice: A Hindrance to Growth in Grace Malice: Ahithophel Toward David Malice: Ammonites Toward the Israelites Malice: Brings Its own Punishment Malice: Christian Liberty not to be a Cloak For Malice: General Scriptures Concerning Malice: Herod Antipas Toward Jesus Malice: Incompatible With the Worship of God Malice: James and John Toward the Samaritans Malice: Joseph's Brothers Toward Joseph Malice: Masters of the Sorcerous Damsel Toward Paul Malice: Nebuchadrezzar Toward Zedekiah Malice: Philistines Toward Isaac Malice: Potiphar's Wife Toward Joseph Malice: Pray for Those Who Injure You Through Malice: Samaritans Toward the Jews Malice: Springs from an Evil Heart Malice: The Jewish Leaders Toward Jesus Malice: The Wicked: Filled With Malice: The Wicked: Speak With Malice: The Wicked: Visit Saints With Related Terms Unrighteousness (57 Occurrences) |
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