March 23 Reflections

Parables of Justice and Mercy

• Do you see any themes in the parables of Jesus?

• Why does Jesus appear so harsh to the religious elites of Jerusalem, yet so compassionate toward the “sinners”?

• Do you relate to any of the parables more than others?

• Consider: Jesus often expressed frustrations with the temple practice and the religious teachers of His day. The Pharisees, Sadducess, and Priests had perfected outward righteousness while ignoring the posture of their heart. Additionally, they despised those who were unclean or considered unrighteous. Jesus showed pity to the outcasts because they knew they could not achieve righteousness without His grace and mercy, while the religious teachers ignored their own depravity. Scripture cautions us against a works based righteousness that ignores our need for repentance. When we confess our sin, Christ is faithful to forgive us in His great mercy.