43-44 “You’re hopeless, you Pharisees! Frauds! You love sitting at the head table at church dinners, love preening yourselves in the radiance of public flattery. Frauds! You’re just like unmarked graves: People walk over that nice, grassy surface, never suspecting the rot and corruption that is six feet under.”

45 One of the religion scholars spoke up: “Teacher, do you realize that in saying these things you’re insulting us?”

46 He said, “Yes, and I can be even more explicit. You’re hopeless, you religion scholars! You load people down with rules and regulations, nearly breaking their backs, but never lift even a finger to help.

Read full chapter

Bible Gateway Recommends

The Message Gift and Award Bible, Softcover, Black
The Message Gift and Award Bible, Softcover, Black
Retail: $7.99
Our Price: $6.49
Save: $1.50 (19%)
1.5 of 5.0 stars
Message REMIX 2.0, Hardcover
Message REMIX 2.0, Hardcover
Retail: $29.99
Our Price: $15.49
Save: $14.50 (48%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
The Message, Large Print Edition: Deluxe Charcoal Linen  Hardcover
The Message, Large Print Edition: Deluxe Charcoal Linen Hardcover
Retail: $49.99
Our Price: $32.49
Save: $17.50 (35%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars
The Message Large-Print Devotional Bible, hardcover
The Message Large-Print Devotional Bible, hardcover
Retail: $39.99
Our Price: $29.99
Save: $10.00 (25%)