By Elimu Assistant Team 
Reasons why the Pharisees were referred to as hypocrites by Jesus
- They considered themselves self-righteous
- They despised others/looked down upon others
- They lacked humility/exalted themselves
- They knew the commandments but did not apply them appropriately (observed them for their gain/they were shy)
- They followed Jesus intending to find faults/trap him
- They followed rules made by human beings/traditions of elders as opposed to God’s rule.
- They emphasized outward cleanliness as opposed to purity of heart
- They altered the Law of Moses to suit their selfish motives
- They were a bad influence on the people /misled others
- Their effect on the people was hidden yet widespread (like yeast in the dough)
