In Matthew Chapter 15, the Gospel writer painted a vivid picture of the growing resentment against Jesus.

Up to this point, Jesus' popularity among the masses was ascending, but a storm was brewing

behind the scenes as religious zealots and local politicians felt threatened by his fame.

Today on Insight for Living Chuck Swindall resumes a message that started on our previous program.

Today, we're turning at our Bibles a few pages ahead

to Matthew chapter 23.

In this passage, we witnessed the intensifying conspiracy

against Jesus.

Chuck titled his message, The Gathering Storm.

Understand men and women, that regardless of all that has been passed around about Jesus of

Nazareth, understand that he saw the war as it was growing and intensifying.

Understand he was never unaware of the enemy's presence.

Understand that when opposition was growing, albeit hidden,

it was to him real, exposed, and therefore occasionally acknowledged.

And when push came to shove, it was time for him to speak, and he spoke, as few have ever spoken. I love it that he wasn't politically

correct. I love it that he didn't concern himself with what they thought. I love it that he stood before his God and was able to say

at the end, I have done what you sent me to do. He never lost sight of the mission regardless of who had offended, regardless of what it

meant for him personally. I love that about him. Having said all of that, Matthew 23,

verse 5, referring to the Pharisees,

they do all their deeds to be noticed by men, for they broaden

their philactories and lengthen the tassels of their garments.

They love the place of honor at banquets

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