What Jesus critics said about him

Jesus had many critics. They continually spoke to him, about him, and behind his back. The amazing thing is that they struggled to fault him. So they asked him questions to try and trap him. Here’s what they said about him:

Matthew 22:15–17
Then the Pharisees went out and laid plans to trap him in his words. 16 They sent their disciples to him along with the Herodians. “Teacher,” they said, “we know that you are a man of integrity and that you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. You aren’t swayed by others, because you pay no attention to who they are. 17 Tell us then, what is your opinion? Is it right to pay the imperial tax to Caesar or not?”

you are a man of integrity
Although the Pharisees were trying to trap Jesus with their questioning, they ironically spoke what was true about Jesus. The first thing they said was that Jesus was a man of integrity. He devastating thing here is that the disciples of the Pharisees (those asking the questions) were trying to please their masters rather than aligning heir hearts to one they saw as having true integrity. We must remember that critics are just acting under the influence of another’s prejudice. Although their loyalty may lie with someone else at he time, they can still see your integrity shining through. This is why it is so important not to react — but to be gracious to critics.

You teach the way of God… with truth
Secondly, the critics recognised that Jesus taught ‘the way of God’. Although their perspective was lose bed against him, they saw something genuine in his teaching. You see, critics don’t like what you say because of their current perspective or methodology. But they can still recognise truth in you.

You aren’t swayed by others…
Finally and most importantly Jesus’ critics noted that he was not easily swayed. What they were experiencing was a man of deep conviction and courage. They recognised that Jesus was not partial to a persons role but rather saw who they were in God. As a leader we need to not be swayed by those in power around us! This will attract respect even from our biggest critics.

Application

1. What would your critics say to trap you?
2. How do you usually respond?
3. What is remarkable about what Jesus critics acknowledged about him?

Prayer

Lord I find it amazing that even your critics could not fault you. And even more amazing that they still couldn’t see you for who were are. Their prejudices and role play blocked their view of you. And yet you were gracious and exemplary in your responses. Lord please help me be like you when being criticised.