Our readings in this series are from the book, The Church Captive. Here is a brief excerpt from page 15:
“The religious leaders of Jesus’ day had settled into a convenient and pragmatic relationship with their Roman overlords. Each scratched the other’s back, and thus together they kept the peace in Jerusalem and its environs. The religious leaders continued teaching, watching over the people, and conducting services in the temple; and the Romans watched as it were from a distance, ever ready to wield impressive force should an occasion arise that seemed to threaten their authority.
“The Jewish leaders of the first century were captives. But either they could not see it, or they refused to admit it. They had become comfortable in their roles as the offspring of Abraham, keepers of the traditions of the elders, religious leaders of an ancient people, and the beneficiaries of the people’s dependence and the Romans’ deference to them – in most matters, at least.“Jesus saw their situation as it really was…”
We’re happy to let you know that, beginning March 1 and for a limited time, you can order The Church Captive together with the next book in our Read Moore series, Revived!, at no cost. Order copies for yourself and for a study group or companion. Watch this space for additional information and to download a free discussion guide for both books.
T. M. Moore
