The term "Sons of the Pharisees" is not explicitly found in the Bible; however, it can be understood as a reference to the descendants or followers of the Pharisaic tradition. The Pharisees were a prominent Jewish sect during the Second Temple period, known for their strict adherence to the Law of Moses and the oral traditions. They played a significant role in the religious and social life of Israel during the time of Jesus Christ.

Historical Context

The Pharisees emerged during the intertestamental period, a time of significant religious and political upheaval for the Jewish people. They were known for their emphasis on purity laws, tithing, and the observance of the Sabbath. The Pharisees believed in the resurrection of the dead, the existence of angels and spirits, and the coming of the Messiah. They were often in opposition to the Sadducees, another Jewish sect that denied these beliefs and held a more aristocratic and priestly influence.

Biblical References

While the specific phrase "Sons of the Pharisees" is not used, the New Testament provides insight into the influence and characteristics of the Pharisees and their followers. In Acts 23:6, the Apostle Paul identifies himself as a Pharisee, stating, "Brothers, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee. I stand on trial because of my hope in the resurrection of the dead" . This indicates that Pharisaic beliefs and traditions were often passed down through generations, suggesting a lineage or continuation of their teachings.

Teachings and Influence

The Pharisees were known for their dedication to the Torah and the oral law, which they believed was equally authoritative. They sought to apply the law to every aspect of daily life, which sometimes led to legalism and a focus on external observance rather than internal righteousness. Jesus frequently criticized the Pharisees for their hypocrisy and self-righteousness, as seen in Matthew 23:27-28: "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men’s bones and every kind of impurity. In the same way, on the outside you appear to be righteous, but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness" .

Legacy and Impact

The Pharisees' emphasis on the law and tradition had a lasting impact on Judaism, particularly after the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 AD. Their teachings laid the groundwork for Rabbinic Judaism, which became the dominant form of Jewish religious practice. The "Sons of the Pharisees," in a broader sense, can be seen as those who continued to uphold and develop these traditions.

In the Christian context, the Pharisees serve as a cautionary example of the dangers of legalism and the importance of genuine faith and humility before God. The New Testament encourages believers to seek a righteousness that surpasses that of the Pharisees, as Jesus taught in Matthew 5:20: "For I tell you that unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven" .