1) Jesus calls out the hypocrisy of the Pharisees and Scribes, who preach God's law but do not practice it themselves. They place heavy burdens on others through extra legalistic rules but do not follow these rules. 2) The Pharisees and Scribes seek positions of power, praise, and prominence through outward displays of devotion like wearing large phylacteries and long fringes, and taking the best seats. 3) Jesus warns his followers not to act like the Pharisees, but to live humbly and genuinely practice what they preach.

1. MATTHEW 23:1-13: “CALLING OUT THE COUNTERFEITS”
The Recap of Chapter 22 that sets up Chapter 23:
 In Chapter 22, after telling His parable, we see Jesus being tested twice by the Pharisees.
Their intentions were of malice as they were trying to find ways to entangle Him. The
Herodians joined forces (although they hated and opposed the Pharisees) with them in
attempt to oppose, intimidate, and discredit Jesus.
 The Two Traps the Pharisees asked:
1) THE CIVIL TRAP: Question asked along with the Herodians: Paying Taxes to Whom?
Caesar or God?
2) THE SPIRITUAL TRAP: Question asked by them only: What is the greatest
commandment of all?
 Jesus knew their true intentions (He is God-for He knew what was in the hearts of men)
and answered them in such a way that both amazed and silenced them.
 Sadducees asked Jesus a question regarding the resurrection (even though they did not
believe in the resurrection). Yet Jesus answered their question so greatly that it left
them amazed and silenced by His answer.
 Jesus counters the Pharisees by asking them a question regarding “Whose Son is the
Christ”? However, the Pharisees were not able to answer the question and none of
them dared to ask another question that day.
 We see 3 groups who posed a question to Jesus:
THE LOYALISTS THE LEGALISTS THE LIBERALSTS
THE HERODIANS THE PHARISEES THE SADDUCEES
LOYAL TO HEROD AND
ROME
LOYAL TO MOSES AND THE LAW LOYAL TO THE LAW AND
HELLENISM (GREECE)
QUESTION POSED:
PAY TRIBUTE TO CAESAR
OR GOD?
QUESTION POSED:
WHAT IS THE GREATEST
COMMANDMENT OF ALL?
QUESTION POSED:
WILL THERE BE MARRIAGE IN
THE RESURRECTION?
 Now we focus on Jesus speaking to the crowds and the disciples regarding the hypocrisy
of the Pharisees.
 As we examine the verses, we will see and learn 4 essential points:
1) Reveal the source of a Counterfeit
2) Recognize the signs of a Counterfeit
3) Respond by giving remedies for a Counterfeit
4) Rebuke and refute the system of a Counterfeit

2. 1. Reveal the Source of a Counterfeit
(Verses 1-3): “Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, “The scribes and the
Pharisees sit on Moses' seat, so do and observe whatever they tell you, but not the works
they do. For they preach, but do not practice.”
 Moses’ Seat was the place of spiritual authority. The Pharisees and Scribes both taught
the Law of Moses. The Pharisees taught and interpreted the Law while the Scribes were
scholars who wrote the Law. They were known for being experts of knowing the Law
(they knew the Ins and Outs) but they were also infamous of being experts of not
practicing the Law (they did not live it out and in).
 The Greek Word for “Seat” was “Cathedrus” of which we get both the Latin word
“Cathedra” and English word “Cathedral.”
 This word literally means “A seat of ecclesiastical authority.”
 Jesus told the crowds and disciples to obey what they teach but do not practice how they
live. Believe what they tell you but do not behave the way they live.” The famous motto
holds true then and now: “Do what I say but not do what I do”!
 Jesus was not against them for preaching and teaching the Law to the masses but He was
against them for not obeying the Law (the same Law they taught and preached). Anytime
someone speaks the truth that is aligned with the Word of God, we ought to believe it!
Otherwise, if they speak something that is contrary or questionable, then we ought to
discern and avoid it!
 The source of a counterfeit is hypocrisy. This is the very thing that Jesus was revealing to
the crowds and disciples about the Pharisees and Scribes.
 They appeared to be holy outwardly to the public but lived like sinners inwardly (even in
private). It was the hypocrisy of the Pharisees and Scribes that made Jesus very angry (yet
Jesus never sinned in His anger). In fact, Jesus never got angry at them when they called
Him names, when they rejected Him as the Messiah, when they try to seize and kill Him,
and or try to trap Him with questions (as we mentioned in the introduction).
 Jesus never got angry at:
1. Those who had little faith
2. Those who rejected His claim of deity and oneness with the Father
3. Those who sought after signs and miracles from Him to believe
4. Those who had misconceptions about Him
5. Those who followed Jesus for political reasons
6. The disciples for betraying or abandoning Him when He needed them most
7. The Sanhedrin for falsely accusing Him of blasphemy against God, giving Him an
unfair trial, and condemning Him like a sinner.
8. Pontius Pilate for releasing the murderer Barabbas and handing Him over to the Jews
to be executed (in the form of crucifixion) even though He was innocent and
righteous.

3. 9. The Roman soldiers who beat, flogged, mocked, and crucified Him.
10. Those disciples who still doubted when He resurrected from the dead.
 Religion breeds Hypocrisy! Religion is opposed to real Saving Faith! Thus, Jesus hates and
is angry with religious people (those then and now)! Those hypocrites who think they are
holy! Those Christians who were counterfeits.
 Those who are religious love and affirm:
 Traditions over Truth
 Goodness over Grace
 Legalism over Christian Liberty
 Rule-keeping rather than Relationship
 Personal Preferences over the Interests of others
 Decisions over Discipleship
 Policies over People
 Behavior over Belief
 Condemnation over Mercy
 Penance over Repentance
 Pride over Humility
 Self-glorification over God’s Glory
 Vice over Virtue
 Those who are religious seek:
 Influence over Impotence
 Authority over Submission
 Positions over Lowliness
 Being Recognized over Being Discreet
 Greed over Contentment
 Acceptance over Rejection
 Earthly Prosperity over Spiritual Blessings
 Success over Failure
 Being Educated over Being Uneducated
 Jesus called out the Pharisees and Scribes and called them names such as:
Blind-Guides White-Washed Tombs Brood of Vipers
Fools Hypocrites Barriers and Stumbling blocks To
the Kingdom
Robbers of Widows Murderers Of the Prophets Making Their Converts into Two-
Fold Children of the Devil
 What does this mean for us today?
1. Jesus is angered when:
 We do not practice what we preach or teach! We are full of talk but no walk
(living out the Christian faith)! We are not consistent in our faith both privately
and publicly! We live a double-standard lifestyle having one foot in the Christian
faith and having one foot planted in the World.

4.  We become prideful (puffed up) in the knowledge of God! Having Knowledge of
God can corrupt us if it is not accompanied with love and edification. When we
begin to think highly or think wiser of ourselves, the more we begin to look down
and condemn others who are not wise. Theology goes beyond knowing Christ! It
is living out our lives for Him daily and constantly being conformed into His Son’s
likeness. A changed life is not measured on how much you know the truth but
how much you live out the truth.
 We lead others away from the truth by teaching a false doctrine and convincing
them to believe it. We lead them in such a way that prevents them from entering
the Kingdom and coming to Christ.
 We create a moral standard for others to keep but we ourselves break. We make
a personal preference or conviction become a divine principle and force it upon
others to adhere to it.
2. Living holy one day Sunday and living Monday through Saturday like an unsaved person is
what Jesus hates and condemns. Simply put, living as a one-day Saint, and living as an
ongoing “Ain’t” the rest of the week is totally unacceptable in Jesus’ eyes.
3. If your faith does not change you inwardly, then you may not be saved at all! If your
conduct does not change, then stop calling yourself a Christian!
2. Recognize The Signs of a Counterfeit
(Verses 4-10): “They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on people's shoulders, but
they themselves are not willing to move them with their finger. They do all their deeds to be seen
by others. For they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long, and they love the place of
honor at feasts and the best seats in the synagogues, and greetings in the marketplaces and being
called rabbi by others. But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all
brothers. And call no man your father on earth, for you have one Father, who is in heaven. Neither
be called instructors, for you have one instructor, the Christ.”
 The greatest defense for Christianity is a true and genuine Born-Again Christian! The
greatest argument against Christianity is a Counterfeit Christian.
 How to spot a Counterfeit Item: The Earthly Illustration
1) The price of item is too good to be true
2) The difference in design and details
3) The quality of the product
4) The certification and seal of authenticity of that item
 How to spot a person who is a Counterfeit: The Spiritual Significance
1) The person looks too good to be true- Is this person truly a born again Christian or just
claims to be a Christian? We cannot assume everyone is! Just because a person says
they are Christian, they love Jesus, and they believe in God does not mean they are
Christian.

5. 2) The difference in their conduct and profession of faith- Is their conduct consistent or
does it contradict their profession of faith? We must exercise discernment by what
fruit they display in their lives! The proof is in the fruit (how they live out their lives-
whether pursuing and living for God or pursuing and living like the world).
3) The quality or genuineness of their faith- Are they truly saved? Do they have a
testimony to share? If so, is it genuine? Is their testimony all about them and what
they did or is it all about Christ and what He did for them?
4) The certification and seal of the Holy Spirit- Do they have the Spirit of God or is it their
flesh (sinful nature) residing in them? Is He evident in their lives (love, joy, peace, long-
suffering, self-control, gentleness, faithfulness, goodness, and kindness)?
The Tell-Tale Signs of a Counterfeit: Power, Praise, Position, and Prestige
They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and
lay them on people’s shoulders, but they
themselves are not willing to move them
with their finger.
Pharisees and Scribes added their own laws unto God’s
written Law to not break them! However, what meant
to safeguard and to avoid breaking such laws became a
burden for others to keep or obey. The original purpose
of adding laws was in good intentions but overtime it
eventually became highly revered and elevated to be as
equal to God’s Law itself (which became a burden to
themselves and others).
Additions to God’s Law (Torah): Jewish Rules and
Traditions
Mishnah + Gemara= The Talmund (over 1,500 laws
added on top of the original 613 commandments of
God)
Note: The Torah include 613 recorded commandments
248 Commandments on what a Jew should do
365 Prohibitions on what a Jew should not do
Note: God wrote and gave the Law to Moses
Moses was instructed by God to give the Law to the
people of Israel and commanded them to obey it.
#1-POWER & CONTROL: Beware of those
who enforce rules and put burdens upon
others to be right with God
They make up rules for others to keep but they
themselves do not keep. Even though they did not keep
them, they demanded others to keep them. This gave
them power and control over their followers. However,
the hypocrisy behind this is that they would enforce it
upon others but they would not enforce it upon
themselves. It would be “Law for you, grace for me” in
that the followers would be judged and punished for
disobeying such rules. On the contrary, they would
exempt themselves to conceal their sins and
disobedience to such rules. Legalism is the burdensome
addition of rules and regulations that God does not
require of us and the condemnation of those who do
not adhere to the added rules and regulations. Legalism
is pettiness over holiness. It disguises itself as holiness
when in fact it is not.
The Pharisees and Scribes were the burden bringers but
Christ was the burden taker. They were lawless more
than lawful. They made people’s souls heavy laden with
rules but Christ gives rest (for his yoke is easy to bear
and his burden is light). Beware of those (including false
teachers and cult leaders) who do such things who
coerce people in putting burdens upon people to
produce fear and control over them.
For they make their phylacteries broad and their
fringes long…
#2-PRAISE & RECOGNITION: Beware of those
who want to show off how spiritual and holy
they are.

6. Phylacteries was a tiny box made of leather that is
worn by Jewish men at morning prayer as a reminder
to keep God’s Law.
Fringes were tassels worn on the four corners of their
garments.
The Israelites were commanded by God to have the
Law written upon their right hand, foreheads, and upon
their hearts. This literally meant that God wanted them
to carry the Law wherever they go. However, they took
a spiritual command of God and made it into a literal
Law to obey. The problem is that the Pharisees and
Scribes would wear phylacteries that were so big, and
their fringes to be so long, it was noticed by everyone.
This type of flaunting made people think the Pharisees
were spiritual elites and were highly regarded for their
devotion to God. However, Jesus was calling them out
for putting on a show to be seen by others. They were
literally wearing their religion on their sleeves! They
valued human applause rather than divine approval
from God!
The same can be said about those who flaunt scripture
tattoos, have Christian bumper stickers on the back of
their cars, and wear Christian T-shirts claiming to be
Christian. They make an emphasis on looking like a
Christian outwardly to be accepted and praised by
other Christians (they look and talk like a Christian) but
they neglect the importance of change from within. The
way they live out their lives privately daily does not
prove their claim as a Christian. Going to church and
acting like a Christian one day a week and sinning and
living for the world the rest of the week is both a
disgrace to the name of Christ and a complete mockery
towards the transforming power of the Gospel.
God is concerned more about change from within
(inner man) than outward appearance. He does not
want fans but rather followers who obey Him. He is not
all that impressed with those who put on a show (as a
Christian) to fool others but He Himself cannot be
fooled! He knows our hearts more than we know it! He
exposes our intentions and judges our secret motives!
Nothing is hidden in God’s eyes!
And they love the place of honor at feasts and the
best seats in the synagogues…
Synagogue- It was a place where Jews would gather to
be instructed in the Law and to worship God during the
time of Jesus. In Jewish custom, those who were closest
to Moses’ seat (stone seat at the front of the synagogue
where the authoritative teacher sat on and taught)
#3-POSITION AND PROMINENCE: Beware of
those who love to be highly exalted and
honored by others
Not only were they highly recognized and accepted for
being teachers of the Law (sounding spiritual) and
being praised for their outward devotion to God
(looking spiritual), they were also given special
privileges by their followers and fellow Pharisees and
Scribes.

7. were considered highly esteemed and well-honored.
The Pharisees and Scribes believed “the closest you are
to Moses’ seat, the closest you are to God.”
Feasts- These were often wedding feasts, special
banquets held at the homes of the prestige and the
privileged, and at Jewish festivals that held
entertainment venues in the public places
(marketplace).
The best seats- In Roman and Jewish customs, the
highest and honorable place at the table were either
the upper end or in the middle. Usually, the master or
host would sit at the lower end of the table while his
guests of honor would either sit in the upper end and
or middle of the table. It is said that the master or host
and his guests of honor would be given the privilege to
sit first before the feast is prepared and would be the
first ones to be excused from the table when the feast
was done.
They were often given places of honor at feasts and
were also given the best seats of the synagogues. Not
only did the Pharisees and Scribes love to be praised by
others but they love to be “front and center” of
everything. Having this privilege made them feel special
and highly regarded. The seats they highly desired were
never faced along with the congregation but rather it
was looking upon the congregation and had given them
the impression they had prominence and authority
over the congregation.
Beware of those who feel entitled or covet positions of
authority within the Church and would stop at anything
to achieve it with sinful motives and malicious
intentions. Like the Pharisees and Scribes, they love to
be highly exalted and treated with the highest privilege
among others. They love others to serve their needs
rather than being a servant to serve the needs of
others. They love to be praised by men rather receiving
praises from God. They love it when others give them
the special treatment rather than giving others special
treatment. They think only about self-interests rather
than thinking of the interests of others. They love it
when others bless them rather them being a blessing to
others. They love it when people go above and beyond
for them but in turn they do not go above and beyond
for the sake of others. They love it when people roll out
the red carpet for them to walk on rather for them to
roll out the red carpet for others.
And greetings in the marketplaces and being
called rabbi by others. But you are not to be
called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you
are all brothers. And call no man your father on
earth, for you have one Father, who is in
heaven. Neither be called instructors, for you
have one instructor, the Christ.
The word “Rabbi” means “Great Teacher” or “Master.”
Rabbis in those days were considered the modern
equivalence to pastors in the church.
The Latin word for rabbi is “Docere” which the English
word “Doctor” derives from.
#4-PRESTIGE & HONOR: Beware of those
who love being called by special titles
The Pharisees and Scribes loved being called and
greeted with special titles such as “rabbi.” Although
Pharisees and Scribes were often called “rabbi,” they
were blinded to spiritual truths and were often rebuked
by Jesus for not practicing the very things they have
taught and instructed others to do.
Jesus is not speaking in the sense that a child calls his
biological father by that title. Jesus is speaking against
the Pharisees and Scribes for using and abusing that
title to elevate themselves above others. They loved it
when people call them “Father” because they believed
that they were the source of all truth rather than God
(who is the God of all truth). Those that followed them
believed they were the ones who can give them true
life and meaning through their teachings. However,

8. The role of a Rabbi is as follows:
-Preside and consummate Jewish weddings
-Pronounce blessings upon public feasts.
-Preach, teach, and interpret the Law to their followers
-Officiate the ordination of other upcoming rabbis
-Engage and collect charity among their followers
-Lead and preside over religious rituals
-Provide godly counsel to their followers
Being called a rabbi made the Pharisees and Scribes feel
superior!
-They often looked down upon on those who were
considered outcasts and dogs of society (i.e., Tax
Collectors, The Poor, Prostitutes, Samaritans, Lepers,
Blind, Lame, Deaf, etc.). They saw them as lost causes
for salvation and therefore chose to neglect them.
-They saw themselves as righteous rather than sinners.
They often accuse, judge, and condemn people of their
sins but failed to recognize their sins.
-They would associate themselves with those who were
social outcasts or sinners.
-They believed they were highly blessed or favored by
God because of their religious piety while sinners were
punished in the form of suffering (poverty, sickness,
disease, women being barren, etc.).
-They saw themselves highly educated than the
common folk.
-They were always guests of honor in the homes of the
noble and prestige.
-They saw themselves more as teachers rather than
students. They did not need to be taught anything for
they believed they knew everything regarding the Law
(which led to being haughty and prideful).
Jesus called them out of their hypocrisy as they rejected
Him as being one with God the Father (deity) and did
not believe in Him as their promised Messiah.
We are not to seek honor for ourselves. We should
avoid being called by special titles and elevating
ourselves above other believers. Rather to be served,
we should have the posture and attitude of being a
servant and serving others. Likewise, we should not
elevate or highly-esteem bible teachers and pastors
more than God. We should avoid and rebuke those in
church leadership who exalt themselves and who love
to be called or addressed by special titles for the sole
purpose of being elevated above others. Those who
hold positions in the church should remember that they
were put there by God’s grace alone. That is the bottom
line!
-It does not matter how many degrees you have,
-It does not matter how many times you pray a day (it
does not make you that special or over-spiritual),
-It does not matter how much you give to the church,
-It does not matter how much you have fasted in your
lifetime,
-It does not matter how well you can preach and teach,
-It does not matter about how long you have held the
position that you are now in,
-It does not matter if you had a long Christian family
heritage (born and raised in a Christian home),
-It does not matter how much you know about the
Word of God,
-It does not matter how well-known you are in the
church (reputation wise),
-It does not matter your accomplishments or
contributions to the church,
-It does not matter how much you make or how well
you dress to impress others,
It is by God’s grace you have been put in the position
you are now in! You are called to lead the flock to follow
Jesus and not lead the flock to follow you!
 A counterfeit desires power, praise, position, and prestige to gain a following. They want
others to follow them rather than following Christ. However, a real Christian will cause
others to follow Christ and not have followers.
 A counterfeit will always tell you to follow them. However, a real Christian will always tell
you to follow Christ. As the apostle Paul once stated, “Imitate me as I imitate Christ”
(1 Corinthians 11:1).
 The attitude of a counterfeit will always be pride and arrogance. Their focus is on being
served by others for self-glory. However, the attitude of a real Christian will always be
humility. Their focus is serving others (others-focused) for the glory of God.

9. 3. Respond by giving remedies for a Counterfeit
(Verses 11-12): “The greatest among you shall be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be
humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.
 Jesus gave us the two remedies for a counterfeit:
1. The one with a servant attitude is considered the greatest in the Kingdom.
2. Those who exalt themselves will be humbled (The way of the Pharisees and Scribes)!
But the one who humbles himself will be exalted (The way of Jesus)!
 Those who exalt themselves will be humbled. To be humbled means to be “put to shame.”
 Those who humble themselves will be exalted. To be exalted means to be “highly
honored.”
 Greatness in the eyes of God is totally different than in the eyes of men.
 Ever since the fall, every person has an innate sinful desire to become great. To become
great in the world, one must exhibit the greatest ability to exploit and manipulate others
to bend others to their will (to be served and honored). Throughout history, those
considered great were prominent and powerful men such as CEO (Chief Executive
Officers), military generals, presidents, politicians, kings, queens, princes, princesses,
priests, high priests, popes, celebrities, and any other prominent figure. These so called
“great” people demanded absolute honor, glory, and were often demanding tribute from
their people.
 The contrast between Two Kingdom Perspectives: The Kingdom of God (Heavenly) vs. The
Kingdom of the World (Earthly)
1. The Kingdom of this World Perspective (Self-Focused): Believe in yourself and rise to
power! Be the greatest to have power and authority to rule over others for them to
serve you.
2. The Kingdom of God Perspective (Selfless-Focused): Fear and Submit to God alone!
Be the greatest by humbling yourself before God and having a servant attitude to
serve others (For God considers this person great in the Kingdom of God).
 Jesus is demanding His disciples (then and now) to not seek to be great in the Kingdom of
this world (by exalting themselves) like the Pharisees and Scribes but to be great in the
Kingdom of God (by humbling themselves).
 Jesus was the greatest example of humility and servant-hood. He is the greatest example
of the One who humbled Himself and is now highly exalted in Heaven! No servant is
greater than His master (Jesus)! In God’s Kingdom, none shall rule over others but God
only!
 He reigned and had glory in Heaven but laid it aside and humbled Himself (by taking on
human flesh) and took a role of a servant to suffer and die on the cross for the sins of all
mankind. However, He rose from the grave on the third day and ascended back into
Heaven and reclaimed His glory and is reigning in Heaven (sitting at the right hand of the
Father). He will come again to rapture His bride (the church), will carry out the wrath of

10. God during the Great Tribulation, will judge the Living and the Dead, and will establish His
millennial reign on Earth. Every knee shall bow and every tongue shall confess that Jesus
is Lord!
 What is Humility?
 Humility is seeing God as high and mighty and seeing ourselves as not! We accept who
we truly are: sinful, fallen, and helpless without God.
 THE HUMILITY TEST: Be Honest with Yourself
 Are you seeking recognition from others by appearing to be holy and spiritual?
 Are you seeking places of honor to get the praises of men? Whether it is in church or at
work?
 Are you putting yourself above others (your self-interests and personal ambitions)
rather than putting others above you?
 Do you find yourself not practicing what you preach daily?
 Do you live a double-minded lifestyle? God and the World?
 If these are all true of you, repent and humble yourself!
 You have heard it said, “God helps those who help themselves”! This is a false and silly
cliché! Rather, “Those who humble themselves, God helps!” (1 Peter 5:6; James 4:10).
 It takes only humility to overcome hypocrisy! Humility is not thinking less of yourself but
rather thinking of yourself less (more about God and others).
 Jesus did not expect moral perfection! He expects humility and servant-hood! Yet the
Pharisees missed this! They thought that keeping the Law made them perfect! They
thought that gaining power and having others serve them was the greatest in God’s
kingdom! However, they were astonished that it was the exact opposite! They were so
blinded and obsessed with perfection and power, they became hypocrites!
 Jesus expects His followers to be blameless believers and consistent Christians! He does
not want His followers to be blasphemous believers and counterfeit Christians!
4. Rebuke and refute the system of a Counterfeit
(Verse 13): “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You shut the door
of the kingdom of heaven in people's faces.”
 The word “woe” can mean grief, anguish, affliction, wretchedness, calamity, or trouble.
 Here, Jesus uses the word “woe” to pronounce divine judgment upon the Pharisees and Scribes.
 Why did Jesus pronounce such a harsh judgment upon them? The answer is simple! They were
truly not seeking after God as though they acted like they were (hence why Jesus called them
hypocrites). He rebuked them for their empty and vain religion as it was also preventing others
from coming to Him to be saved.
 Two Grave Errors of Hypocrisy:
1. The Pharisees and Scribes will not enter the Kingdom of God themselves.

11. They clearly rejected and hated Jesus for many reasons. Such reasons included:
i. They were jealous of Him because He drew more crowds than they would (and
the people loved Him and were astonished of His teachings). They were
appalled out how Jesus drew the outcasts of the Jewish society to Himself as
well (i.e., poor, lepers, tax collectors, Samaritans, Gentiles, prostitutes, blind,
lame, the deaf, the sick, the afflicted, and the demon possessed).
ii. They hated Him for publicly exposing their sinful ways and hypocrisy.
iii. They hated Him because they believed Him to be a blasphemer. They rejected
His claim to be God, that God was His Father, and that He was equal or one
with God.
These were some of the reasons they would not receive Jesus and therefore
would not enter the Kingdom of God.
2. The Pharisees and Scribes will not let others enter in the Kingdom of God as well.
What are some ways they were keeping others from entering the Kingdom of God?
i. They taught their followers that for them to enter Heaven, they must adhere
to the Law and the rules they have added onto the Law as well.
ii. They preached and taught that faith in the Law gives eternal life.
iii. They were trying to discredit Jesus’s claim of deity and attributing His miracles
and healings as demonic in nature.
iv. They were trying to taint the reputation of Jesus as a drunkard and glutton
who ate with sinners and tax collectors.
v. They were trying to dismiss His teachings and authority as a rabbi as He was
not under any rabbinical authority and that He was a son of a poor carpenter
(Joseph)
 It is bad for one to not enter Heaven themselves, but it is even worse when you prevent
others from entering in.
 What do world religions of today and Pharisees and Scribes have in common?
i. They all deny faith in Christ alone (being God and His atoning work on the cross)!
ii. They all deny grace alone!
iii. They all deny the only Savior of mankind and that is Jesus Christ!
iv. They all deny repentance!
 All world religions say salvation is not a free gift but a goal that you can achieve on your
own merit.
 All world religions say there’s truth in all religions. Therefore, none is wrong! However,
Christianity teaches the opposite! It proclaims to be the one and only truth and therefore
all religions are wrong!
 All world religions today consist of 3 things: This determines your salvation!
i. Rules (What you must follow or obey)
ii. Regulations (What you must avoid)
iii. Rituals (How you should worship)

12.  The Kingdom of God was shut against men:
i. The people who really need God saw all the rules they needed to follow and saw
the hypocrisy of the Scribes and Pharisees and completely turned away from
coming to God. How true it is today when people who call themselves Christians
do this during those who need Christ. Jesus had to expose them for their hypocrisy
so that many will come to Him to be saved.
ii. The response to such hypocrisy: “Forget you and Forget God! If Your Jesus has not
changed your life more than what I can see, I do not understand why I would need
Him”?
iii. Out of the four gospel writers, who wrote more about the Pharisees?
It was Matthew! Before He became a disciple and an apostle of Christ, he was a
former tax collector (Matthew 9:9-13).
iv. The Pharisees and Scribes saw Matthew and the other Tax Collectors as:
 They were traitors among their people (they were considered by the Jews
to be sell outs for the Roman Empire). Being a Tax Collector meant you
were known to collect taxes from the Jewish people more than what was
required (Luke 3:12-13). Even the family members of tax collectors would
disown them or excommunicate them for pledging allegiance and working
for the Roman Empire. They would do this out of fear of not being cut off
or mistreated by the Jewish community they were affiliated with.
 They were called dogs, Dogs in those days were not domesticated but wild
and rabid. Dogs were also considered unclean animals in the O.T. (Leviticus
11:27-28). Calling someone a dog or associating them with a dog was the
most offensive word in the Jewish culture. The Pharisees and Scribes used
this word regularly as a derogatory to refer to unspiritual people or sinners.
 They were the greatest sinners of all. Not only were they traitors to their
own people, they were making a living out of their extortion from
collecting taxes from their own people (by offering loans to people who
could not pay the tax and then charge them with high interest rates). They
were infamous for harassing people wherever they could and they would
tax them on the spot. Most if not some tax collectors had Roman Soldiers
escort and guard them when collecting taxes (to neutralize any possibility
of assaults or threats made on them by the Jewish people). They were also
shown as unmerciful to those who could not pay taxes or the debt they
have been loaned and would often send them to prison.
 Their profession was as equal to the profession of prostitutes. Tax
collecting was seen as being a profession equal to that of prostitution.
Prostitutes would offer themselves up for sex with a client in an exchange
for money while Tax collectors offered their loyalty to work for the Romans

13. (enemies of the Jewish people) in an exchange for safety, security, and
money.
v. Matthew was hated and despised by the Pharisees and Scribes. Even Zacchaeus
was Chief Tax Collector who was also despised by them. Yet, He had faith in Jesus
and humbled himself to the Savior and received grace (Luke 19:1-9). It is believed
that he was cheating people through extortion.
vi. What do prostitutes and Tax Collectors have in common? Jesus came to save
them and they would enter the Kingdom of God ahead of the Pharisees and
Scribes (Matthew 21:31). Jesus did not come for the righteous but He came only
for sinners unto repentance (Luke 5:31-32). These two classes of people who were
deemed as social outcasts of the Jewish society of that day needed a Savior (to
save them from their sins).
vii. If it was not for Jesus saving and calling Matthew for a greater purpose, Matthew
would still be lost and would have lived a miserable life as a Tax Collector.
viii. If you claim to be a follower of Jesus, are you a window or mirror to unbelievers?
The Test of Conduct #1: What do unbelievers see in you?
 A Mirror/Splitting Image- If your conduct and character does not reflect a changed life, then they would
see a direct reflection of themselves in you. If you live, think, and talk like them, then they would think
you have not changed at all and they will see how less Christ means to you. If they see that, they will be
compelled to be drawn away from Christ and gives them the opportunity to blaspheme God.
 A Window/Image of Christ- If your conduct and character reflect a changed life, then they would see
Christ living inside you. If you live, think, and talk like Christ, then they would see how much Christ
means to you. If they see that, they will be drawn to know Christ and glorify God because of your
changed life.
The Test ofConduct: What donew believers see in you (Matthew 18:6-8, Mark 9:42-48; Luke 17:1-4)?
THE GREATEST ARUMENT FOR
CHRISTIANITY IS A TRUE BIBLE-BELIEVING
AND GOSPEL AFFIRMING CHRISTIAN!
THE GREATEST ARGUMENT AGAINST
CHRISTIANITY IS A COUNTERFEIT
CHRISTIAN! -JAMES MERRITT

14. If you claim to be a follower of Jesus, are you a guide or a barrier to new believers?
The Test of Conduct #2: What do new believers see in you?
 A Guide/Role Model- If your conduct and character is constantly being conformed into the image of
Christ, then they would be inspired to follow your example. If you live, think, and talk like Christ, then
they would see how much Christ means to you in which they would want to know and love Christ more.
 A Barrier/Rebel- If your conduct and character does not reflect a changed life, then you may cause them
to stumble in their faith. If you live, think, and talk like them, then they would think you have not
changed at all and they will see how less Christ means to you. If they see that, they will either doubt
that you are even saved or worse they depart from the faith entirely.
ix. “It is all in vain to preach the truth,
To the eager ears of the trusting youth,
If whenever the lad is standing by,
He sees you cheat and hears you lie.” –Edgar Guest (Self-Examine Test Poem)
x. Exhortation to Unbeliever: Do not get bit by the hypocrite! Do not get led astray
or turned off by the hypocrisy in the church but come to Christ in humility
(repentance and faith) and receive His amazing grace! There’s always room for
one more hypocrite in the church to be redeemed and transformed!
xi. Exhortation to Believer: Do not be a fit for a counterfeit! Because there is nothing
more that makes Jesus angry than holy hypocrisy and a counterfeit Christian. God
helps us to live out our faith in Jesus more than just mere profession of faith!
 We need to be blameless in our witness for Jesus (both privately and publicly)
CHRISTIAN LIBERTY SHOULD NOT BE ABUSED:
1. To cause another brother or sister in Christ to
stumble in their faith
2. To flaunt it with arrogance
3. To be used as a cloak or license to sin
Jesus said you are better off dead if you cause
another brother or sister in Christ to stumble!

15.  We need to live humbly before God and others (especially unbelievers)!
 We need to grow in our faith in knowing and living for Jesus before we tell
others how to know and live for Him!
 Our witness consists of both Word (what we profess and believe in) and
Deed (what we live by-obedience to God’s Word)
Consistency
Leads To
Conviction
Ends In
Conflict
Consistency
Leads To
Curiosity
Ends In
Conversion
Contradiction
Leads To
Confirmation
Ends In
Criticism
and
Constant Rejection
TWO RESPONSES FROM BEING A WINDOW TO THE
GOSPEL
THE GOOD RESPONSE THE BAD RESPONSE
RESPONSE FOR BEING A
MIRROR FOR THE WORLD
THE UGLY (WORST
RESPONSE)
BEING A FAITHFUL WITNESS (WINDOW)
GOOD RESPONSE BAD RESPONSE
YOUR CONSISTENCY
(BY WORD AND DEED)
WILL CAUSE THE
UNBELIEVER TO BE
CURIOUS ABOUT THE
GOSPEL IN SUCH A
WAY THAT IT LEADS
THEM TO CONVERSION
(REPENTANCE AND
FAITH IN CHRIST).
AS NEW CONVERTS,
CONTINUE TO BE
CONSISTENT (WORD
AND DEED) AND
DISCIPLE THEM SO
THEY GROW IN THEIR
FAITH IN CHRIST.
YOUR CONSISTENCY (BY
WORD AND DEED) WILL
CONVICT THE UNBELIEVER
WHO DOESN’T WANT TO GIVE
UP THEIR SIN AND WHO
REJECTS THE GOSPEL WILL
LEAD TO CONFLICT
(OPPOSITION,
RATIONALIZATION, AND
PERSECUTION).
IF THEY REJECT THE GOSPEL,
CONTINUE TO BE CONSISTENT
(WORD AND DEED) AND PRAY
FOR THEIR SALVATION
(HOPING ONE DAY THEY COME
TO CHRIST IN REPENTANCE
AND FAITH).
BEING AN
UNFAITHFUL
WITNESS (MIRROR)
WORST
RESPONSE
YOUR CONTRADICTION
(BEING INCONSISTENT
WITH WORD AND DEED)
WILL CAUSE THE
UNBELIEVER TO
CONFIRM YOUR
HYPOCRISY WHICH
RESULTS IN HARSH
CRITICISM AND
CONTINUAL REJECTION
TOWARDS THE
GOSPEL.

16. *NOTE: A FALSE CONVERSION/CONFESSION OF FAITH CAN BE THE ROOT OF A COUNTEFEIT!
Contradiction
Leads To
Compromise
Ends In
Counterfeit
Christianity
LIVING OUT YOUR FAITH IN
CONTRADICTION (BOTH WORD AND
DEED) ONLY COMPROMISES YOUR
WITNESS TO THE GOSPEL WHICH
RESULTS IN LIVING OUT A
COUNTERFEIT CHRISTIANITY!
THE PATH OF A COUNTERFEIT
CHRISTIAN
CONTRADICTORY LIFESTYLE
INCLUDES:
1. CONCERNED WITH THE CARES OF THIS
WORLD
2. BEING CONFORMED TO THIS WORLD
(ACT, TALK, AND THINK)
3. AFFIRMING AND ENDORSING SIN IN THE
WORLD
4. LOVING THE THINGS OF THIS WORLD
5. DESIRE FOR DECEITFUL RICHES IN THE
WORLD
6. FELLOWSHIP WITH THE WORLD
(UNBELIEVERS)
7. BEING AGAINST HOLY AND RIGHTEOUS
LIVING
8. TAINTED/BAD REPUTATION AMONG
UNBELIEVERS
9. BEING AGAINST THE TRUTHS OF
SCRIPTURE
10. REFUSE TO REPENT OF SINS (KNOWN
THE PATH OF A TRUE CHRISTIAN
Consistency
Leads To
Conformity
That Produces
Character
(True Christianity)
CONSISTENT LIFESTYLE INCLUDES:
1. BEING CONCERNED WITH THE LORD’S WORK
IN THE WORLD
2. PROCLAIMING AND SHARING THE GOSPEL
TO THE WORLD
3. LOVING THE THINGS OF GOD (HIS WILL AND
WAYS)
4. LIVING A HOLY AND RIGHTEOUS LIFE
BEFORE GOD
5. FELLOWSHIPPING AND SUBMITTING TO
OTHER BELIEVERS
6. RESISTING SIN BY THE POWER OF THE HOLY
SPIRIT
7. BEING CONTENT IN ALL CIRCUMSTANCES
8. BLAMELESS REPUTATION AMONG
UNBELIEVERS
9. OBEYING AND DEFENDING THE TRUTHS OF
SCRIPTURE
LIVING OUT YOUR FAITH IN CONSISTENCY
(BOTH WORD AND DEED) LEADS TO A
FAITHFUL WITNESS TO THE GOSPEL WHICH
RESULTS IN TWO THINGS:
1. SOUL WINNING FOR CHRIST
2. GIVING GLORY TO GOD