Matthew 23:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 23:20
20 Whoso therefore shall swear by the altar, sweareth by it, and by all things thereon.
Chapter Context
Matthew 23 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of worship, faith, grace. 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 23:20
20 Whoso therefore shall swear by the altar, sweareth by it, and by all things thereon.
Analysis
Whoso therefore shall swear by the altar, sweareth by it, and by all things thereon—the particle oun (οὖν, therefore) introduces Jesus's logical conclusion from verses 18-19. The phrase omnuei en autō kai en pasin tois epanō autou (ὀμνύει ἐν αὐτῷ καὶ ἐν πᾶσιν τοῖς ἐπάνω αὐτοῦ, swears by it and by all things upon it) establishes an inseparable unity: altar and offerings form one sacred whole.
Jesus dismantles Pharisaic casuistry by showing its internal contradiction. If the altar sanctifies what's on it, then swearing by the altar implicitly invokes everything associated with it, including the gifts. Their artificial distinction collapses under scrutiny. More fundamentally, Jesus is preparing the final blow (verse 22): all oaths ultimately invoke God Himself, making evasive distinctions meaningless. The Pharisees' elaborate oath hierarchy was theological fraud, allowing them to lie while appearing righteous.
Historical Context
Jewish oath-taking developed complex traditions beyond biblical commands. The Mishnah (compiled AD 200 but reflecting earlier oral traditions) devoted entire tractates (Shebuot, Nedarim) to oath regulations. Jesus's teaching cut through this complexity, insisting on simple honesty that needs no oaths (Matthew 5:33-37).
Reflection
- Why does complexity in religious rules often serve dishonesty rather than righteousness?
- How does Jesus's logic expose the hollowness of the Pharisees' oath system?
- What does this verse teach about the interconnected nature of sacred things?
Word Studies
- Altar: θυσιαστήριον (Thusiastērion) G2379 - Altar