Matthew 23:3
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 23:3
3 All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not.
Chapter Context
Matthew 23 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of worship, love, 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 foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 23:3
3 All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not.
Analysis
All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not—Jesus commands obedience to Torah teaching (tēreite kai poieite, τηρεῖτε καὶ ποιεῖτε, keep and do) while forbidding imitation of hypocritical conduct. The stark contrast legousin kai ou poiousin (λέγουσιν καὶ οὐ ποιοῦσιν, they say and do not) exposes the fundamental flaw: orthodoxy without orthopraxy, right doctrine without right living.
This is not blanket endorsement of Pharisaic oral tradition (which Jesus often challenged) but recognition that when they correctly teach Scripture, it must be obeyed. The verse establishes a crucial hermeneutical principle: truth remains true regardless of the teacher's character, yet teachers will be judged more severely (James 3:1) for failing to live what they teach.
Historical Context
First-century Pharisees added extensive oral traditions to Torah (the 'tradition of the elders' in Mark 7:3-13), creating hundreds of detailed rules. Jesus distinguished between biblical commands (which He upheld) and human traditions that often contradicted Scripture's spirit while claiming to protect it.
Reflection
- How do you discern when religious leaders teach Scripture accurately versus imposing human tradition?
- Why does Jesus command obedience to their teaching despite condemning their hypocrisy?
- What dangers arise when believers focus on doctrinal correctness while neglecting personal transformation?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: 2 Chronicles 30:12, Acts 5:29, Romans 13:1, 2 Timothy 3:5, Titus 1:16