Topical Encyclopedia Flattery, in the biblical context, often refers to insincere praise or commendation, typically used to manipulate or deceive. The Pharisees, a prominent religious group during the time of Jesus, are frequently depicted in the New Testament as engaging in such behavior, particularly in their interactions with Jesus Christ.The Pharisees were known for their strict adherence to the Law of Moses and their emphasis on oral traditions. They held significant influence over the religious and social life of the Jewish people. However, their encounters with Jesus often revealed a tendency towards hypocrisy and self-righteousness, which Jesus openly criticized. One notable instance of flattery by the Pharisees is recorded in the Gospel of Matthew. In Matthew 22:15-17 , the Pharisees, along with the Herodians, approached Jesus with a question about paying taxes to Caesar. They began by flattering Him, saying, "Teacher, we know that You are truthful and teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. You seek favor from no one, because You do not show partiality." Despite their seemingly respectful words, their intent was to trap Jesus in His response. Jesus, perceiving their malice, called them out for their hypocrisy and provided a wise answer that left them amazed. This incident highlights the Pharisees' use of flattery as a tool to ensnare Jesus, attempting to use His own reputation for truthfulness against Him. Their insincere praise was a facade, masking their true intentions of undermining His authority and discrediting His ministry. In another encounter, recorded in Luke 20:20-21 , the Pharisees sent spies who pretended to be righteous in order to catch Jesus in His words. They addressed Him with flattery, saying, "Teacher, we know that You speak and teach what is right, and that You show no partiality but teach the way of God in accordance with the truth." Again, their words were not genuine but were intended to deceive and trap Jesus. The Pharisees' use of flattery is a cautionary example of how insincere praise can be employed as a weapon of manipulation. Their actions serve as a reminder of the dangers of hypocrisy and the importance of sincerity in speech and conduct. The Bible consistently warns against flattery, as seen in Proverbs 26:28 : "A lying tongue hates those it crushes, and a flattering mouth causes ruin." In the broader biblical narrative, the Pharisees' behavior underscores the tension between outward religious observance and the inward condition of the heart. Jesus' interactions with them reveal His deep concern for genuine faith and integrity, as opposed to mere external compliance with religious norms. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 12:14Then the Pharisees went out, and held a council against him, how they might destroy him. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Matt. xxii. 15 Nicodemus. Matt. xii. 38, 39 Hypocrisy One Argument which Has Been Much Relied Upon but not More than Its ... Matt. Ix. 27-30. John i. 19 To the Disciples - Two Events and their Moral. Paul Before Felix. G. The Warning against the Scribes. Ch. 20:45-47 Resources Who was Daniel in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho is the king of the South in Daniel 11? | GotQuestions.org What is apostasy and how can I recognize it? | GotQuestions.org Flattery: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Flattery by Darius's Courtiers Flattery by the Woman of Tekoah Flattery: Avoid Those Given To Flattery: False Prophets and Teachers Use Flattery: General Scriptures Concerning Flattery: Hypocrites Use, to God Flattery: Hypocrites Use, to Those in Authority Flattery: Ministers should not Use Flattery: Paul Correctly Informs Felix Flattery: Saints should not Used Flattery: Seldom Gains Respect Flattery: Tertullus Flatters Felix Flattery: The Wicked Use, to Others Flattery: The Wicked Use, to Themselves Flattery: Wisdom, a Preservative Against Flattery: Worldly Advantage Obtained By Related Terms |
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