The Rejection of Jesus by the Elders, Chief Priests, and Scribes: Who are they in the modern Times?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season: Thursday after  Ash Wednesday*

*Gospel : Lk 9:22-25*

*First Reading : Dt 30:15-20*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 1:1-2, 3, 4 and 6*

*The Rejection of Jesus by the Elders, Chief Priests, and Scribes: Who are they in the modern Times?*

*1) Three Categories of People*

The Gospel clearly tells us that Jesus was rejected and made to suffer by three categories of people 

The Elders, Chief Priests, and Scribes

Who are they in the present day context?. What is their significance to us?

*2) The Elders (Community Leaders, Cultural Influencers)*

In Jesus’ time, the elders were respected leaders of society who upheld traditions.

Today, they can represent cultural influencers, opinion leaders, or even family elders who resist the radical call of Christ in favor of societal norms.

Are we more influenced by cultural trends and public opinion than by the Gospel?

*3) The Chief Priests (Religious Authorities, Institutional Church Leaders)*

The chief priests were religious leaders who maintained the temple system. 

Some rejected Jesus because He challenged their power and traditions.

Today, they may represent religious authorities who focus more on rituals, control, or legalism rather than genuine faith and transformation.

Do we sometimes prioritize religious structures over a living relationship with Christ?

*4) The Scribes (Intellectual and Academic Authorities, Theologians, Media Personalities)*

The scribes were scholars of the Law, often more concerned with intellectual interpretations than with recognizing the living Word.

Today, they may be theologians, educators, or media figures who reject Christ’s message, promoting secularism, skepticism, or relativism.

Are we overly reliant on human wisdom and reason while neglecting faith and divine revelation?

*5) Rejection of Christ Continues Today*

Just as Jesus was rejected by the leaders of His time, modern institutions, societies, and even religious communities can reject Christ’s radical call.

This rejection can take subtle forms—compromising truth for convenience, diluting the Gospel, or resisting genuine spiritual renewal.

*6) A Call to Examine Our Hearts*

The rejection of Jesus was not only by the leaders but also by the people influenced by them. 

Do we ignore His teachings when they challenge our comfort or status?

*7) Faithfulness Despite Rejection*

Jesus remained faithful despite rejection.

As His followers, we too may face rejection from modern *elders, chief priests, and scribes.*

But like Christ, we are called to endure, knowing that God’s truth will prevail (John 16:33).

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*