Different Types of Pharisees

Scripture: At that time some Pharisees came and told Him, “Go, get out of here! Herod wants to kill You!” Luke 13:31

Observation: It seems clear that, throughout Jesus' ministry, there are three distinct groups of Pharisees. There are those who oppose Jesus - they are against his teaching, jealous of his authority, and plotting his death. There are Pharisees who are intrigued by Jesus - they invite him for dinner and pose questions not as traps, but in an almost philosophical exercise of debate for intellectual purposes. And there is a small minority of Pharisees who border on belief ... they genuinely explore the possibility that Jesus is at least a prophet if not the Messiah.

So when Pharisees warn Jesus that Herod is out to kill him, we can only understand why if we can put that in context. Are they seeking to protect Jesus? Are they merely informing Jesus of a rumor? Or are they wishing to trick Jesus away from Jerusalem for some nefarious purpose? In context - given the very next thing that happens is an apparently not-too-confrontational dinner at a Pharisees' house - it is probably the second choice ... these are neutral Pharisees who seek to explore Jesus' unique teaching and are informing him of the rumor they have heard.

Application: How will I treat Jesus today in my life? Will I stand opposed to him by knowingly violating his teaching? Will I consider him as an intellectual study to see how his life applies to my life? Will I decide he is the Messiah and follow him?

In my mind, I clearly choose the latter. However, the choice about Jesus is a moment-by-moment, act-by-act decision. I am a different type of Pharisee hour by hour throughout the day. The greatest and most obvious battle in our hearts is to not be the type of person who opposes and rejects Jesus' teaching. However, being a "student" who seeks only an intellectual understanding is also a dangerous position, as it can appear to involve discipleship when it actually is just another Pharisee engaging in debate.

I do want to learn from Jesus as a disciple, and not as a Pharisee. This starts by ensuring every thought begins with one idea ... I believe Jesus is my Lord and Messiah. From that position, learning isn't about debate, but discovery. It isn't about exploring ideas, it's about hearing truth. And actions aren't based on ponding options, they are based on obedience.

Prayer: Dear Lord, I say again today, Jesus is my Lord and savior. I will obey and trust in him alone. Please forgive me of my disobedience, sin, and evil thoughts, as I too look to forgive others and deal kindly with all. Guide me today so that I may do you will alone. Amen.