From Heaven With Love

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The Resurrection, a Subject of Controversy

Between the Pharisees and Sadducees the resurrection was especially a subject of controversy. The Pharisees had been firm believers in the resurrection, but their views in regard to the future state became confused. Death became an inexplicable mystery. The discussions between the two parties usually resulted in angry disputes. HLv 403.4

The Sadducees had not so strong a hold on the common people, but many had the influence which wealth imparts. From among them the high priest was usually chosen. The fact that they were eligible to such office gave influence to their errors. HLv 403.5

The Sadducees rejected the teaching of Jesus; His teaching in regard to the future life contradicted their theories. It was their belief that, having created man, God had left him to himself, independent of a higher influence. They held that he was free to control his own life and to shape the events of the world; his destiny was in his own hands. HLv 404.1