Matthew 23:1
Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples,
Original Language Analysis
Τότε
Then
G5119
Τότε
Then
Strong's:
G5119
Word #:
1 of 10
the when, i.e., at the time that (of the past or future, also in consecution)
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
2 of 10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Ἰησοῦς
Jesus
G2424
Ἰησοῦς
Jesus
Strong's:
G2424
Word #:
3 of 10
jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites
τοῖς
G3588
τοῖς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ὄχλοις
to the multitude
G3793
ὄχλοις
to the multitude
Strong's:
G3793
Word #:
6 of 10
a throng (as borne along); by implication, the rabble; by extension, a class of people; figuratively, a riot
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
7 of 10
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Cross References
Luke 12:1In the mean time, when there were gathered together an innumerable multitude of people, insomuch that they trode one upon another, he began to say unto his disciples first of all, Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.Luke 12:57Yea, and why even of yourselves judge ye not what is right?
Historical Context
This address occurred during Passion Week (Tuesday, April AD 30) in the Temple courts, where Jesus had been teaching daily. The scribes (Torah scholars) and Pharisees (lay religious party emphasizing oral tradition) held immense social and religious authority, though they lacked the Sadducees' political power.
Questions for Reflection
- Why does Jesus deliver this harsh critique publicly rather than privately correcting the leaders?
- How does addressing both crowds and disciples simultaneously serve different purposes?
- What does Jesus's willingness to confront powerful religious authorities teach about prophetic courage?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples—the Greek verb elalēsen (ἐλάλησεν) indicates a formal, authoritative discourse. This transitional verse introduces Jesus's most searing public denunciation of religious hypocrisy, delivered not privately but before ochlos (ὄχλος, the crowds) and mathētais (μαθηταῖς, disciples). The dual audience is strategic: Jesus warns believers while unmasking the scribes and Pharisees' corruption before those they misled.
This discourse (Matthew 23:1-39) represents Jesus's final public teaching before the Passion narrative, positioned immediately after His silencing of the religious leaders in debate (Matthew 21-22). The timing underscores the irrevocable breach between Jesus and the Temple establishment—they will respond by crucifying Him within days.