In Luke 20:27-40 the Sadducees confront Jesus about a core doctrine of the Christian faith — life after death. In this third confrontation in the Temple, Jesus responds to an influential group who twists the Scriptures to make a particular belief look ridiculous. A few lessons we can learn as we confront scoffers in our day are: (1) be biblical, (2) be gentle and respectful, and (3) be direct. Christians should respond to those who misinterpret the Bible by being well-grounded in Scripture, confident in both Jesus’ and Scripture’s authority, convinced of the truth of the resurrection, and characterized by gentleness and respect in all discussions.
Without the resurrection, concepts of judgment, accountability, and eternal life lose their meaning. The call is to trust in the authority of God and to present the truth boldly and lovingly, ensuring that our defense of the gospel remains rooted in Scripture.