…and beware of the yeast… Matthew 16:1-12  Some believe that the earliest winemaking was probably by accident. Not until the 1800’s do we understand that enzymes secreted by yeast cells in the fermentation process of breaking down sugar, plays a significant part in contributing to its flavor. Likewise evidence of baking bread goes as far back as 4000+years, but not until the 19th century did we understand the process of yeast in causing dough to rise. Either way research has shown us that yeast is this microscopic organism, a fungus that reproduces by budding, grows very quickly and whose DNA can be easily manipulated. However, over time, the yeast loses its activity. We know from the passage that Jesus is comparing the yeast to the Pharisees’ teaching of doctrine. Isn’t it interesting that Jesus’ use of the word yeast is still appropriate for us today in light of its characteristics of which we’ve only fully known and understood since the 19th century? Let us not be easily manipulated. God’s truth is eternal; always active in all places and at all times.