Irritating the Pharisees identifies the miracle stories of the Gospels as intentional disruptions of the religious, cultural, and political systems of first-century Judaism. Each miracle isn’t just supernatural, it’s strategic. Each healing, exorcism, and act of provision directly challenges purity laws, temple control, and legalistic interpretations of God's character.
This book peels back centuries of sentimentalism and shows what religious leaders of the time knew all too well: Jesus's miracles weren’t just merciful, they were dangerous. And that’s why they wanted Him dead.
Whether you're a pastor, student, or thoughtful reader of Scripture, Irritating the Pharisees will challenge you to see the miracles with new eyes; through the lens of the people they offended most.
“He didn’t just heal bodies. He upended systems. And everyone watching understood exactly what He was doing.”
James Harris is a researcher, data scientist, author and former church leader with a passion for uncovering the historical and theological foundations of the Christian faith. His work explores deep questions at the heart of Scripture, bringing scholarly rigor and accessible insight to complex biblical themes.
Bringing a research-driven approach, he is committed to helping readers engage thoughtfully with the Bible's most enduring mysteries. His writing is shaped by a desire to illuminate, not complicate, and to guide others into greater understanding through clarity, context, and careful study.