It is interesting how God (the Holy Spirit) reveals certain things that we are then impressed to share. I have read this many times and have shared it elsewhere often, but never in this forum. Today, I was impressed to share this here. Speaking of John the Baptist.
John had not recognized the authority of the Sanhedrin by seeking their sanction for his work; and he had reproved rulers and people, Pharisees and Sadducees alike. Yet the people followed him eagerly. The interest in his work seemed to be continually increasing. Though he had not deferred to them, the Sanhedrin accounted that, as a public teacher, he was under their jurisdiction.
This body was made up of members chosen from the priesthood, and from the chief rulers and teachers of the nation. The high priest was usually the president. All its members were to be men advanced in years, though not aged; men of learning, not only versed in Jewish religion and history, but in general knowledge. They were to be without physical blemish, and must be married men, and fathers, as being more likely than others to be humane and considerate.
There are two important points I feel are "present truth". First, John was not under the authority of the Sanhedrin. They thought they could compel him, but it was not their position to control the teaching of God. So it is today. The church is to exercise control over what is taught in the church, but not outside of it. The false gospels we hear and read in the church are an abomination. The church is guilty for allowing it.
The second point of importance is to recognize the Pharisee of Pharisees (Saul), was a member of the Sanhedrin, thus he had been married, and had children. There are many who rush to conclusions thinking they understand theological truth, when in fact they misunderstand. It is good that we have strong opinions, but we need to take care we do not persecute others when they do not adhere to what we think is truth.
