'Teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites!'

How could Jesus call such people who are well versed in the Scriptures 'hypocrites'?

To Jesus, the word "hypocrite" equally denotes what is superficial as well as people who are dismissive of the Word of God.

Jesus denounces the corrupt religious elite. These leaders possess wealth and culture, and want to be in command, but never learn from the truth nor practice humility and compassion.

On the one hand, they have the prophets, but on the other hand, they are killers of the prophets (cf. Mt 23:37). Such leaders are not defenders of the Faith; they only follow their social prejudices and readily condemn those who tell the truth or challenge their mediocrity.

Lord Jesus, in your company, I want to look at my inner self. Please help me to see what is hidden there even from myself.

Help me to come out from what I have lived unrealistically and from the unquestioned certitudes that I have been enclosed in.