The Paul Tripp Podcast 1022. The Gospel of the Pharisees | Mark 2:18-27
Jan 20, 2026
The discussion highlights the subtle dangers of a counterfeit gospel rooted in self-righteousness. Paul Tripp contrasts legalism and traditionalism with the true power of the gospel. He explains how Pharisees’ prideful fasting became a means of judgment rather than a true act of worship. Using metaphors of wine and weddings, he illustrates Jesus’ call for celebration over rigid rule-keeping. The insights into the Sabbath reveal the importance of mercy over legalistic boundaries. Listeners are urged to embrace Christ's grace and resist self-righteousness.
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Counterfeit Gospel Within The Church
- The most dangerous threat to the gospel is a counterfeit that looks like the real thing and doesn't need Christ.
- This counterfeit lives inside committed religious people and substitutes self-righteousness for dependence on Christ.
Barnhouse's Satanic Philadelphia
- Donald Gray Barnhouse imagined a Satan-ruled Philadelphia where outward morality thrives but Christ is not preached.
- Paul Tripp uses this story to show how religious-looking goodness can hide a gospel-less society.
Danger Of Faithful-Sounding False Teachers
- False teachers often use the same language and locations as true gospel preachers, making them especially dangerous.
- They can preach a different Christ while still sounding Christian and calling him 'Jesus.'