In the temple, which had been hallowed by daily sacrificial offerings, prefiguring his coming, and symbolizing his death, no preparations are being made to welcome the Saviour of the world. The Pharisees continue to repeat their long, meaningless prayers in the streets, to be heard of men, in order to obtain the reputation of great piety and devotion. {2SP 16.2}

I templet, som har været helliget af daglige brændofrene, der symboliserer hans komme, og symboliserer hans død, gøres der ingen forberedelser for at byde verdens frelser velkommen. Farisæerne fortsætter med at gentage deres lange og meningsløse bønner i gaderne, for at blive hørt af mennesker, for at få et omdømme om stor dydighed og helligelse.