Matthew 23:25
Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
4 of 22
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Φαρισαῖοι
Pharisees
G5330
Φαρισαῖοι
Pharisees
Strong's:
G5330
Word #:
5 of 22
a separatist, i.e., exclusively religious; a pharisean, i.e., jewish sectary
ὑποκριταί
hypocrites
G5273
ὑποκριταί
hypocrites
Strong's:
G5273
Word #:
6 of 22
an actor under an assumed character (stage-player), i.e., (figuratively) a dissembler ("hypocrite"
ὅτι
! for
G3754
ὅτι
! for
Strong's:
G3754
Word #:
7 of 22
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 22
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
11 of 22
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ποτηρίου
of the cup
G4221
ποτηρίου
of the cup
Strong's:
G4221
Word #:
12 of 22
a drinking-vessel; by extension, the contents thereof, i.e., a cupful (draught); figuratively, a lot or fate
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
13 of 22
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τῆς
G3588
τῆς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
14 of 22
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἔσωθεν
within
G2081
ἔσωθεν
within
Strong's:
G2081
Word #:
16 of 22
from inside; also used as equivalent to g2080 (inside)
ἐξ
of
G1537
ἐξ
of
Strong's:
G1537
Word #:
19 of 22
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
Historical Context
The historical setting involved complex religious and political dynamics. Jewish leaders maintained authority through Roman tolerance while common people sought deliverance. Jesus' teaching addressed both immediate concerns and eternal truths.
Questions for Reflection
- What does this text reveal about human nature and God's grace?
- How can you apply this teaching to current struggles or questions?
- What changes in thinking or behavior does this passage require?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
This text illustrates key Reformed principles: sola Scriptura, sola gratia, and sola fide. The passage demonstrates how God's Word speaks authoritatively to human need, revealing both our depravity and God's merciful provision through Christ.