Counsel #2 — Breaking Illusions

Picture: Counsel #2 — Breaking IllusionsCSI 115.1

In their zeal to uphold the law of Moses, the Pharisees considered themselves as the ultimate interpreters and enforcers of God's commands. Acting as judges, they imposed burdensome regulations that were impossible to fulfill. However, Jesus, with deep understanding and wisdom, revealed the genuine essence and purpose of the law. He demonstrated its true meaning not only by His words, but in how He treated others; by the way He sacrificially lived and died. He shattered the facade of the Pharisees' empty piety and exposed their self-righteousness and hierarchical schemes.CSI 115.2

"It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." Galatians 5:1 NIVCSI 115.3

“Jesus impressed upon the people that they were to give no man a title of honor indicating his control of their conscience or their faith.” Ellen White in The Desire of Ages, p.613CSI 115.4

Reflect: How can we promote a culture of equality, transparency, and ethical conduct within religious and organizational structures, guarding against the misuse of authority and preserving the freedom Christ has given us?^{[164]https://www.libertymagazine.org/article/the-scripturally-informed-conscience}CSI 115.5