Matthew 23:3

Authorized King James Version

All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
πάντα
G3956
All
all, any, every, the whole
#2
οὖν
G3767
therefore
(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly
#3
ὅσα
G3745
as (much, great, long, etc.) as
#4
ἂν
G302
whatsoever
whatsoever
#5
εἴπωσιν
G2036
they bid
to speak or say (by word or writing)
#6
ὑμῖν
G5213
you
to (with or by) you
#7
τηρεῖτε
G5083
observe
to guard (from loss or injury, properly, by keeping the eye upon; and thus differing from g5442, which is properly to prevent escaping; and from g2892
#8
τηρεῖτε
G5083
observe
to guard (from loss or injury, properly, by keeping the eye upon; and thus differing from g5442, which is properly to prevent escaping; and from g2892
#9
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#10
ποιοῦσιν
G4160
do
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)
#11
κατὰ
G2596
ye after
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
#12
δὲ
G1161
but
but, and, etc
#13
τὰ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#14
ἔργα
G2041
works
toil (as an effort or occupation); by implication, an act
#15
αὐτῶν
G846
their
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
#16
μὴ
G3361
not
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#17
ποιοῦσιν
G4160
do
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)
#18
λέγουσιν
G3004
they say
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
#19
γὰρ
G1063
for
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
#20
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#21
οὐ
G3756
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#22
ποιοῦσιν
G4160
do
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Matthew, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Matthew.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of Jewish biographical literature presenting Jesus as the fulfillment of Scripture shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Matthew Understanding a worldview expecting divine intervention through a promised Messiah helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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