Matthew 12:2
But when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto him, Behold, thy disciples do that which is not lawful to do upon the sabbath day.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
Pharisees held significant religious authority in first-century Judaism. Their interpretations, though not binding like Scripture, carried community weight. Violating Pharisaic tradition brought social and religious consequences: exclusion from synagogue, loss of status, ostracism. Jesus' persistent defiance of their traditions while upholding Scripture challenged their authority structure. This conflict would escalate to crucifixion. Early church faced similar pressure: Judaizers insisted Gentile Christians adopt Jewish traditions (Acts 15). Paul fought this legalism vigorously (Galatians).
Questions for Reflection
- How do we distinguish between God's commands and human traditions?
- What dangers arise when religious traditions gain authority equal to Scripture?
- How should we respond to accusations of breaking rules that aren't actually biblical?
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Analysis & Commentary
Pharisees accuse: 'Behold, thy disciples do that which is not lawful to do upon the sabbath day' (ιδου οι μαθηται σου ποιουσιν ο ουκ εξεστιν ποιειν εν σαββατω). They charge Jesus with tolerating Sabbath violation. 'Not lawful' (ουκ εξεστιν) refers to their tradition, not Torah. Mosaic law didn't prohibit what the disciples did; Pharisaic tradition did. This reveals legalism's method: elevate human tradition to divine status (Mark 7:8-9), then condemn those violating it. The accusation targets Jesus' leadership—He permits unlawful behavior. Jesus will respond by appealing to Scripture itself (12:3-8), showing Pharisees violate Scripture's spirit while obsessing over traditional details.