17th June 2025
In Scripture, leaven often represents sin that silently spreads and corrupts. Jesus warned His disciples to beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of Herod. The Pharisees, though respected religious leaders, were steeped in legalism and hypocrisy. They focused on outward rituals, masking hearts filled with pride, self-righteousness, and wickedness. Herod, on the other hand, was a political ruler driven by a desire for popularity and power. He sought to please people, not God, manipulating others to serve his own interests.
Today, the spirit of both the Pharisees and Herod still lingers. We too can fall into the trap of putting on a show of religion while our hearts are far from God. Or we may live to gain the approval of people, using charm and influence for selfish ends. Outward success may deceive others, but God sees the heart. Let us seek to please Him alone, walking in humility and truth.