Matthew 15:4
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 15:4
4 For God commanded, saying, Honour thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death.
Chapter Context
Matthew 15 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of righteousness, discipleship, redemption. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-39: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 15:4
4 For God commanded, saying, Honour thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death.
Analysis
Jesus quotes the fifth commandment, 'Honour thy father and mother,' linking it to divine authority. This commandment carries both promise and threat—long life for obedience, death penalty for disobedience (Exodus 21:17). Reformed theology emphasizes the Ten Commandments' continuing moral authority. Jesus uses Scripture to expose how Pharisaic tradition violated God's law. The appeal to 'God commanded' establishes divine authority over human tradition.
Historical Context
The fifth commandment appears in Exodus 20:12 and Deuteronomy 5:16. It was the first commandment with promise and bridged duties to God (commands 1-4) and duties to neighbor (commands 6-10). Jewish tradition highly valued parental honor, yet the Corban loophole undermined this. Jesus' citation shows His allegiance to biblical law over rabbinic tradition.
Reflection
- How do you honor your parents in ways that reflect God's command?
- What modern practices might undermine the fifth commandment?
- How does respecting parental authority relate to respecting God's authority?
Word Studies
- God: Θεός (Theos) G2316 - God
Cross-References
- References God: Exodus 20:12, Leviticus 19:3, Deuteronomy 5:16, Romans 3:31
- Curse: Exodus 21:17, Leviticus 20:9, Proverbs 20:20
- Parallel theme: Matthew 19:19, Proverbs 23:22, Ephesians 6:1