Definition: Then Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 16:6. It’s a really important passage about spiritual things and how to protect yourself from temptation. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: Jesus is telling his disciples – the followers of him – to be careful about something that’s going to change their way of thinking and behaving, and it’s a little bit disruptive. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Jesus said…” : This tells us this isn't just random talk; Jesus is giving instruction. “…Take heed…” : This means “be careful” or "pay attention." It’s a warning. “…and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the Sadducees.” : This is the key part. Pharisees: These were Jewish leaders who believed in strict adherence to religious law, often focusing on tradition and interpretation. They weren't necessarily evil, but they could be very rigid and resistant to new ideas or changes. Sadducees: These were another group of Jewish leaders, also focused on tradition, but with a more hierarchical view. They emphasized the old ways and weren’t as open to new interpretations. So, what's the big deal? Jesus is warning his disciples about something that will change their way of thinking and acting. Think of it like this: “Leaven” – This refers to a special kind of yeast used in baking bread. It makes the dough rise. When you use it, the bread becomes light and fluffy. The "leaven" represents something that's changing your spiritual life. It’s not just about a new belief or practice; it's about a shift in your mindset, values, or way of living – things that can make you complacent, resistant, or even tempted to do things that go against God's will. Why is this important? Jesus was warning his disciples about the dangers of: Distraction: The Pharisees and Sadducees were focused on old rules and traditions, which could pull their attention away from God’s truth. Resistance to Change: They weren't open to new ideas or ways of thinking that could lead to a deeper relationship with God. In short, the verse is telling us to stay true to our faith and resist things that might try to distract us from God. --- Do you want me to explain any of this in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Give a simple analogy? Explain the historical context (where did this verse come from)?