The Pharisees: Slithering Snakes

John the Baptizer's blunt words to the Pharisees when they come to witness him baptizing the people, as paraphrased in The Message:  "Brood of snakes! What do you think you’re doing slithering down here to the river? Do you think a little water on your snakeskins is going to make any difference? It’s your life that must change, not your skin! (Matt 3.8)