Emphasis Preaching Journal

Webster's New Collegiate Dictionary defines "scrupulous" as "having moral integrity" or being "highly principled." These are good things. However, since the Middle Ages the Roman Catholic church has recognized that "scrupulosity" can be taken to such extremes that it becomes detrimental. Scrupulosity is even considered a sin, since it denies the love and grace of God.

If, like the Pharisees, we focus on practicing the minutia of religion, but ignore the call to love God and neighbor, we are putting the good ahead of the best, and are heading for