Jesus' problem with the Pharisees was not that they were religious. It was that they were focused on the wrong things. They were focused on outward appearances more than inward holiness. They were focused on judgment more than mercy. And they were focused on pride more than humility.
Jesus' teachings remind us that true religion is not about following rules or performing rituals. It is about having a relationship with God and living a life of love and service to others.
