Matthew 16:5–12 discusses the yeast of the Pharisees, a metaphor Jesus uses to warn his disciples.
A little deception goes a long way if you don’t stay spiritually sharp. The yeast of the Pharisees represents this deception that permeates slowly.
In this next interaction, Jesus issues a powerful warning about the unseen but dangerous influence of false teaching, which he likens to the yeast of the Pharisees.
Matthew 16:5–12 (NASB 2020)
5 And the disciples came to the other side of the sea, but they had forgotten to bring any bread. 6 And Jesus said to them, “Watch out, and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” 7 They began to discuss this among themselves, saying, “He said that because we did not bring any bread.” 8 But Jesus, aware of this, said, “You men of little faith, why are you discussing among yourselves the fact that you have no bread? 9 Do you not yet understand nor remember the five loaves of the five thousand, and how many baskets you picked up? 10 Nor the seven loaves of the four thousand, and how many large baskets you picked up? 11 How is it that you do not understand that I did not speak to you about bread? But beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” 12 Then they understood that He did not say to beware of the leaven used in bread, but of the teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees.
Who Was Jesus Speaking To?
- His disciples—men still growing in faith and understanding
- He used a metaphor that they initially misunderstood regarding the yeast of the Pharisees.
- He clarified His meaning to teach spiritual discernment
What Happened?
- The disciples worried about physical bread
- Jesus used the moment to give a spiritual warning by referencing the yeast of the Pharisees.
- He reminded them of the recent miracles of provision
- He rebuked their shallow thinking and taught them to beware of the influence of corrupt religious leaders
The Mood: Instructional, Frustrated, Urgent
Jesus shows gentle frustration, but His goal is to teach:
- He wants them to think beyond the physical
- He urgently warns them not to fall for false spiritual leadership, as represented by the yeast of the Pharisees.
The Principle: Influence Is Subtle but Powerful
Leaven (yeast) works quietly, but changes everything it touches. Likewise:
- False teaching creeps in slowly
- What you believe shapes how you live
- Spiritual laziness invites spiritual deception
- We must be awake and alert to influence
Audience Response (Then)
The disciples were confused at first, but then they understood.
- Their faith was still growing, but Jesus didn’t leave them in the dark
- He wanted them to think deeply and discern spiritually
What This Means for Us in 2025
In a time of false prophets, internet gurus, and spiritual confusion:
- Don’t assume every spiritual leader is healthy
- Learn to test teaching through Scripture, especially to spot the yeast of the Pharisees.
- Don’t get so focused on physical needs that you miss spiritual warnings
- Be slow to follow trends, fast to follow truth
Discernment is not optional in a deceptive age.
Action Steps for Today
- Guard your inputs. What podcasts, books, or voices shape your thinking?
- Return to the Word. Let God’s truth be your filter.
- Ask the Holy Spirit for discernment daily.
- Beware spiritual pride. Even the disciples misunderstood Jesus at times.
- Stay alert to influence. It’s not just what you hear—it’s what you absorb.
Final Prayer
Jesus, thank You for warning us when we drift toward deception. Help me discern what’s true and what subtly leads me astray. Give me the humility to admit when I’m wrong, and the hunger to pursue Your Word above all else. Amen.
Discernment sharpens when your hunger for truth outweighs your appetite for comfort.
