Matthew 5:33
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 5:33
33 Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths:
Chapter Context
Matthew 5 is a ethical teaching chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, judgment, wisdom. 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 21-48: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it presents Jesus' ethical teaching in the Sermon on the Mount. 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 5:33
33 Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths:
Analysis
Jesus addresses oath-taking, which Jewish law regulated carefully. Oaths invoked God's name or substitutes to guarantee truthfulness. But the practice had become corrupted—people used lesser oaths they felt free to break while claiming only God-oaths were truly binding.
Historical Context
The Third Commandment prohibited taking God's name in vain. Jewish tradition developed elaborate rules about which oaths were binding. Some teachers said oaths 'by heaven' or 'by Jerusalem' were non-binding, creating loopholes for dishonesty.
Reflection
- How do we create 'loopholes' in our speech to justify dishonesty or exaggeration?
- What does the need for oaths reveal about human untrustworthiness?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master
Cross-References
- References Lord: Exodus 20:7, Leviticus 19:12, Deuteronomy 5:11, 23:21, 23:23, Psalms 76:11
- Parallel theme: Psalms 50:14