The Pharisees have, on the whole, had a bad press, but we have to be careful about blanket condemnation of the group. Nicodemus was a pharisee and Joseph of Arimathea may have been one. Gamaliel (Acts 22:3) was highly respected and Paul, apostle of the gentiles, was also one. Thus when they were acting honourably, their contribution was of great importance. There was, however, a temptation to abuse their positions. This was true in the time of Jesus and perhaps more so when the temple was destroyed and they were the mainstay of authority for the Jewish people. Matthew’s gospel was written at a time when there was conflict between the followers of Christ and those attending the synagogues, who did not accept him.
Jesus was trying to emphasize that the only authority was God and that he was God’s Word: therefore those who were versed in the Law had the responsibility to teach it but not to glorify themselves by their position. Unfortunately, throughout history many leaders of the church have enriched themselves and abused their power. The people of God have been deprived of a voice. Hopefully now under the leadership of Pope Francis we are moving to a more collaborative ministry, where clergy and people can work together under the guidance of the Spirit, using their manifold God-given gifts to his greater honour and glory.