The disgust to RELIGIOUS PEOPLE

Scribes are those people who know so well the Law and the Holy Scriptures. They have authority of understanding and interpreting the Word of God in the temple. But according to Jesus, they are dangerous, one has to be mindful and be smart in looking at them and in imitating them. On this gospel of Mark chapter 12, verse 38 - 40, there are serious accusations that Jesus made clear:

1. These religious people, expert of the Word of God, like to be seen by the way they dress that gives the claim of authority from the people.

2. They love to be greeted in the public places. - where people might see them and really admire how influential and respected they are by the society.

3. They always want to have the important places: "seats of honor in syngogues", places of honor at banquets.

But.....
4. They devour the houses of widows - the helpless ones who can't defend themselves.

5. As a "pretense" they recite "LONG PRAYERS"... as if God will listen them more coz they pray with so many words.

The conclusion of Jesus is His consideration: THEY WILL RECEIVE A VERY SEVERE CONDEMNATION.


Mark 12:38-40

Denunciation of the Scribes.^* 38In the course of his teaching he said,^p “Beware of the scribes, who like to go around in long robes and accept greetings in the marketplaces, 39seats of honor in synagogues, and places of honor at banquets. 40They devour the houses of widows and, as a pretext, recite lengthy prayers. They will receive a very severe condemnation.” 

The Poor Widow’s Contribution.^* 41He sat down opposite the treasury and observed how the crowd put money into the treasury.^q Many rich people put in large sums. 42A poor widow also came and put in two small coins worth a few cents. 43Calling his disciples to himself, he said to them, “Amen, I say to you, this poor widow put in more than all the other contributors to the treasury. 44For they have all contributed from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has contributed all she had, her whole livelihood.”