Topical Bible: Scorning and Mocking: Pharisees

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Topical Encyclopedia

The Pharisees, a prominent religious group during the time of Jesus, are frequently depicted in the New Testament as engaging in scorning and mocking, particularly towards Jesus and His teachings. Their actions and attitudes are illustrative of a broader theme of spiritual blindness and hypocrisy, which Jesus often rebuked.

Biblical Context

The Pharisees were known for their strict adherence to the Law of Moses and the oral traditions that had developed around it. They were influential in the synagogues and among the Jewish people, often seen as authorities on religious matters. However, their focus on external observance often led to a neglect of the heart's true condition, which Jesus highlighted in His interactions with them.

Scorning and Mocking in the Gospels

The Gospels provide several instances where the Pharisees scorned and mocked Jesus. In Matthew 9:11, the Pharisees questioned His disciples, "Why does your Teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?" . This question was not merely inquisitive but carried a tone of disdain, as they could not comprehend why a supposed holy man would associate with those they deemed unworthy.

In Matthew 12:24, after Jesus healed a demon-possessed man, the Pharisees said, "It is only by Beelzebul, the prince of demons, that this man drives out demons" . This accusation was a direct mockery of Jesus' divine authority and power, attributing His miraculous works to demonic influence.

Hypocrisy and Spiritual Blindness

Jesus often rebuked the Pharisees for their hypocrisy and spiritual blindness. In Matthew 23, He pronounced a series of "woes" upon them, highlighting their external religiosity devoid of genuine righteousness. In verse 27, He declared, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, 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" . This vivid imagery underscored their focus on outward appearances while neglecting inner purity.

The Pharisees' Role in Jesus' Crucifixion

The scorn and mockery of the Pharisees culminated in their role in the events leading to Jesus' crucifixion. They were instrumental in plotting against Him, as seen in John 11:53, "So from that day on they plotted to kill Him" . Their disdain for Jesus' message and His challenge to their authority fueled their desire to see Him silenced.

During the crucifixion, the mocking continued. In Matthew 27:41-43, the chief priests, scribes, and elders, likely including Pharisees, mocked Jesus, saying, "He saved others, but He cannot save Himself! He is the King of Israel; let Him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in Him" . This mockery was a final attempt to discredit His claims and mission.

Lessons from the Pharisees' Scorn

The Pharisees' scorn and mocking serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride, self-righteousness, and spiritual blindness. Their inability to recognize the Messiah in their midst, despite their extensive knowledge of the Scriptures, highlights the importance of humility and openness to God's truth. Jesus' interactions with them remind believers to prioritize genuine faith and love over mere external observance.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Luke 16:14
And the Pharisees also, who were covetous, heard all these things: and they derided him.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

A Few Sighs from Hell;
... long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? And the scorners delight
in their scorning? And fools hate knowledge?' 'Turn you at ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a few sighs from hell.htm