Confronting Power

Confronting Power

Matthew 12:14, NLT

Then the Pharisees called a meeting to plot how to kill Jesus.

Mark 3:6, NLT

At once the Pharisees went away and met with the supporters of Herod to plot how to kill Jesus.

Luke 6:11, NLT

At this, the enemies of Jesus were wild with rage and began to discuss what to do with him.

Setting the Scene

Putting these three Gospel accounts together, we see that the Pharisees were furious with Jesus. At first these religious leaders had been merely curious about Jesus, but their curiosity turned to hatred. They were “wild with rage” because Jesus had openly confronted their authority and placed himself above them. Jesus had looked them in the eyes, flouted their laws, and exposed the hatred in their hearts to the entire crowd in the synagogue.

These Jewish religious leaders were so jealous of Jesus’ popularity, his miracles, and his authority that they missed who he was—the Messiah for whom they had been waiting. They refused to acknowledge Jesus because they were not willing to give up their treasured positions and power. When Jesus exposed their attitudes, he became their enemy, and they began looking for ways to destroy him. Ironically, they began planning on the Sabbath to kill him. Their hatred drove them to plot murder—an act clearly against the law.

The Pharisees “met with the supporters of Herod.” This was an unlikely (and unholy) alliance. This group, also called the “Herodians,” was made up of Jews who hoped to restore Herod the Great’s line to the throne, so they usually stood in direct conflict with the Jewish religious leaders. But Jesus threatened the authority of both groups, so they began working together to rid themselves of this threat.

Getting Personal

When have you encountered opposition because of your desire to follow Jesus’ example and teachings in your lifestyle?

How will you respond the next time you are “persecuted for doing right” and for following Jesus (Matthew 5:10-12)?

Either Jesus is who he said he is, or he is a fraud. The Pharisees chose the latter. We who follow Jesus can also be seen as threats. When we stand up for compassion and justice, we will be opposed by many who profit from oppression and discrimination. We may even encounter opposition from religious leaders who see their grip loosening. Jesus turns the world’s values upside down, but his way is true and right. It is the only path to eternal life.

Talking to God

Express to the Lord your whole-hearted commitment to Jesus and his teachings, no matter what consequences arise from your obedience and loyalty.