Accidental Pharisees

Avoiding Pride, Exclusivity, and the Other Dangers of Overzealous Faith

By: Larry Osborne

Narrated by: Tommy Cresswell

Zealous faith can have a dangerous, dark side. While recent calls for radical Christians have challenged many to be more passionate about their faith, the down side can be a budding arrogance and self-righteousness that “accidentally” sneaks into our outlook.

In Accidental Pharisees, bestselling author Larry Osborne diagnoses nine of the most common traps that can ensnare Christians on the road to a deeper life of faith. Rejecting attempts to turn the call to follow Christ into a new form of legalism, he shows you how to avoid the temptations of pride, exclusivity, legalism, and hypocrisy,

Larry reminds us that attempts to fan the flames of full-on discipleship and call people to Christlikeness should be rooted in love and humility. Christians stirred by calls to radical discipleship, but unsure how to respond, will be challenged and encouraged to develop a truly Christlike zeal for God.

Discussion questions are available in the audiobook companion PDF download.

So convicting!

Such a great book every Christian should read! Very convicting and challenging to my faith and how I view others

Another good book

I attend North Coast Church and I hear stuff like this all the time from Larry. It is a good reminder that we can all fall into this trap. It’s a good read.

Wow

I am lovingly chastised by this book. I believe I was led to this book at the necessary season in my life. Thank you Mr. Osborne.

Must-Read for Ministry…or just Christianity!

Accidental Pharisees was one of those books that challenged me in the best way. Larry Osborne does a great job addressing something that many Christians wrestle with but don't always recognize in themselves, which is the slow drift from grace into performance and rule-keeping. The book isn't harsh or condemning, but it is honest. It forces you to look at your motives and ask whether you're helping people move toward Jesus or unintentionally putting obstacles in their way.

I really love how this book shows how good intentions can slowly turn into unhealthy expectations, especially in church culture, and how easy it is to confuse spiritual maturity with personal preference. The examples are relatable, and the writing stays accessible without oversimplifying the message.

As Christians...we ARE called to speak truth. We are just called to do it gently and humbly. So you can imagine how grateful I am that this book doesn't dismiss any convictions or holiness, but it also does continually bring you back to grace as the starting point. That balance made the message feel both corrective and encouraging rather than heavy. I truly found myself reflecting on my own attitudes and conversations in a way that felt productive instead of discouraging.

This is a book I would recommend to church leaders, longtime believers, and, honestly, anyone who wants to make sure their faith is still being built by God's grace instead of pride or pressure. It's so needed in today's church culture. I consider it a must-read for those who want to do vocational ministry, as well.
Read it!

Great book!

I will recommend this book to many people. Very wise words indeed. Thank you! Peace :)