Matthew: 23:1-12
Does God desire obedience or sacrifice? For the Pharisee, sacrifice is preferred! For example, in one particular ruling, the Pharisees saw it as righteous to deny helping parents so long as the offering to one’s parents was dedicated the temple! Which honors God more?
Being hypocrites, the Pharisees fall desperately short of the glory of God. They become men that stand as the bulwark outside the gates of heaven, preventing people from entering into heaven, while themselves not being allowed in – although they are convinced that they are citizens of heaven.
Jesus tells us not to be like them; do not be hypocritical, but be washed by the blood of Jesus Christ. Our salvation does not come from our obedience to the Law, but the obedience of Jesus Christ!