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Matthew 23:3
Verse
Context
Woes to Scribes and Pharisees
2“The scribes and Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat.3So practice and observe everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach. 4They tie up heavy, burdensome loads and lay them on men’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them.
Sermons
Zac PoonenZac Poonen
Bill McLeod
Erlo StegenZac Poonen
Joshua Daniel
Roy DanielSummary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
All therefore--that is, all which, as sitting in that seat and teaching out of that law. they bid you observe, that observe and do--The word "therefore" is thus, it will be seen, of great importance, as limiting those injunctions which He would have them obey to what they fetched from the law itself. In requiring implicit obedience to such injunctions, He would have them to recognize the authority with which they taught over and above the obligations of the law itself--an important principle truly; but He who denounced the traditions of such teachers (Mat 15:3) cannot have meant here to throw His shield over these. It is remarked by WEBSTER and WILKINSON that the warning to beware of the scribes is given by Mark and Luke (Mar 12:38; Luk 20:46) without any qualification: the charge to respect and obey them being reported by Matthew alone, indicating for whom this Gospel was especially written, and the writer's desire to conciliate the Jews.
John Gill Bible Commentary
All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe,.... This must be restrained to things that were agreeable to the chair of Moses, in which they sat, to the law of Moses, which they read and explained, to other parts of Scripture and truth in general; for otherwise many of their glosses and traditions were repugnant to the law, and ought not to be observed, as appears from Mat 5:1. The word "observe", in this clause, is omitted by the Vulgate Latin, Arabic, and Ethiopic versions, and in Munster's Hebrew Gospel; and Beza says, it is wanting in one ancient copy, but is in others; and is retained in the Syriac and Persic versions that observe and do; hearken to what they say, give diligent heed unto it, take notice of it, and act according to it: but do not ye after their works; let their doctrine be the rule of your lives, so far as it agrees with the law of Moses; but let not their actions be drawn into an example by you; conform to their instructions, but do not imitate their practices: for they say, and do not; they talk of good works, but do none; they bid others do them, but do not practise them themselves; they very strictly and severely enjoin them on others, but are very careless themselves to observe them; and of this the Jews are so conscious, that they suggest the same doctrine (n). "The daughter of Ahar (a wicked man) came before Rabbi; she said to him, Rabbi, supply me with the necessaries of life: he replied to her, daughter, who art thou? she answered him, the daughter of Ahar: he said to her, is there any of his seed in the world? for lo! it is written, Job 18:19. "He shall neither have son, nor nephew, among his people, nor any remaining, in his dwellings": she replied to him, , "remember his law, or doctrine, but do not remember his works."--Says R. Jochanan, what is that which is written, Mal 2:7. "For the priest's lips should keep knowledge, and they should seek the law at his mouth; for he is the messenger of the Lord of hosts." If the doctor is like to an angel, or messenger of the Lord of hosts, they should seek the law at his mouth; and if not, they should not seek the law at his mouth. Says Resh Lekish, R. Meir found and explained that Scripture, Pro 22:17. "Bow down thine ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply thine heart to my knowledge": to their knowledge it is not said, but to my knowledge. R. Chanina says, hence, Psa 45:10. "Hearken, O daughter! and consider, incline thine ear, forget thine own people, and thy father's house": on which the gloss is, forget their works, and do not learn them: he that knows how to take care not to learn their works, may learn the law from their mouths.'' --And a little after, "the disciples of the wise men are like to a nut; as a nut, though it is defiled with mire and filth, yet that which is within it is not to be rejected; so a scholar, or a disciple of a wise man, though he act wickedly, his law, or doctrine, is not to be despised.'' Good doctrine is not the worse for being taught by bad men; nor are good works to be slighted and neglected, because they are not done by all that teach them; but it must be owned that examples are very useful and forcible, and practice greatly recommends doctrine; and it is to be wished, that they both always went together. (n) T. Bab. Chagiga, fol. 15. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
23:3 practice and obey: This was not a blanket endorsement of all that the Pharisees teach (see 15:1-20; 16:5-12; 23:13-39). It might refer only to what was in accord with the law of Moses, or it might be bitter irony or sarcasm. Jesus might also have been counseling conformity to the Pharisees’ teachings to avoid giving offense (17:24-27).
Matthew 23:3
Woes to Scribes and Pharisees
2“The scribes and Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat.3So practice and observe everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach. 4They tie up heavy, burdensome loads and lay them on men’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Danger of Pharisaism
By Zac Poonen5.7K52:59PharisaismMAT 6:33MAT 23:3LUK 1:1LUK 12:42LUK 12:452CO 3:9JAS 1:5In this sermon, the preacher focuses on Luke chapter twelve, verse forty-five, which talks about a slave who becomes abusive towards other slaves because he believes his master will be delayed in returning. The preacher emphasizes the importance of ministers giving people the spiritual nourishment they need at the right time, rather than using their position to criticize and condemn others. He warns against comparing oneself to others and despising them based on external appearances or behaviors. The preacher also highlights the danger of creating a culture of guilt and condemnation within churches, instead of offering hope and assurance of God's love and forgiveness. He references the parable of the laborers in the vineyard to illustrate the idea that even those who have wasted much of their lives can still give themselves to God and receive His grace.
(Basics) 45. God and Money Are Opposites
By Zac Poonen3.4K13:01PRO 22:7ECC 5:10MAT 6:24MAT 23:3LUK 16:131TI 6:10HEB 13:5In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of making a choice between serving God or serving money. He compares money to fire, stating that while it can be a useful servant, it can also be a destructive master if not handled carefully. The speaker encourages listeners to be cautious and responsible in their handling of money, as it can have a significant impact on their lives. He uses Jesus as an example, highlighting that Jesus worked as a carpenter and earned a living, but was not attached to material possessions.
Christ Is All - in Scripture
By Bill McLeod1.6K46:28Fulness Of ChristPSA 2:10PSA 40:7PSA 41:9MAT 1:21MAT 28:19MRK 14:62COL 3:11TIT 3:7PHM 1:1In this sermon, the speaker begins by referencing Mark 16 and Luke 1 from the Bible. He highlights how Jesus reproached his disciples for their lack of belief in his resurrection and then commanded them to preach the gospel to the world. The speaker also mentions that some versions of the Bible omit miracles and end with Jesus' death on the cross, portraying him as a good man and advocate of peace. However, the speaker emphasizes that the Bible is truly all about Jesus and explores the significance of his ministry and his role as the Son of God.
Both God and Man
By Erlo Stegen1.4K1:06:34Deity Of ChristMAT 16:28MAT 23:3JHN 13:34In this sermon, the preacher starts by emphasizing the importance of the Bible as the source of good news about God. He then reads from Matthew 16:28 and 17:1-9, where Jesus predicts his coming in the kingdom and is transfigured before Peter, James, and John. The preacher highlights the significance of Jesus' words and actions, urging Christians to align their beliefs and behaviors with what Jesus teaches in the Bible. He also mentions the book of Revelation, where Jesus is seen among the churches, and encourages listeners to examine their relationship with Jesus and strive to obey his commands.
Freedom From Legalism
By Zac Poonen1.2K1:01:45MAT 23:3This sermon emphasizes the need to break free from legalism and embrace the true spirit of Christianity, which values people over rules. It highlights the danger of being trapped in a cage of strict regulations and the importance of adorning gifts and doctrines with a Christ-like life to draw others to God. The message calls for repentance, especially for leaders, to manifest the love and beauty of Jesus in their interactions and to focus on genuine transformation through the Holy Spirit.
Deferred Obedience 2 - Part 3
By Joshua Daniel1.2K06:15PRO 28:13ISA 1:23MAT 21:31MAT 23:3
This sermon addresses the issue of dishonesty and corruption, highlighting the consequences of cheating and unethical practices, especially during times of crisis. It emphasizes the importance of repentance and obedience to God's word, contrasting the actions of societal outcasts who turn to God with the indifference of religious individuals. The message warns against rejecting righteousness and the need for immediate obedience to avoid severe consequences.
Overcoming Spiritual Pressure
By Roy Daniel1.1K1:15:37PressureMAT 23:3In this sermon, the preacher begins by acknowledging that life is not always fair, but emphasizes the amazing grace of God that brings people together in different circumstances. He then directs the congregation to Matthew 23:3-4 and encourages them to open their Bibles and follow along. The preacher mentions his current focus on prayer and prays for God to reveal His truth through His word. He shares a personal anecdote about running in his kitchen and his mother's humorous reaction. The sermon also briefly touches on the topic of courtship and the importance of learning about it to avoid unnecessary problems.
Compared View of the First Three Gospels, Etc.
By John Nelson Darby0The GospelsChrist's MinistryMAT 1:1MAT 4:17MAT 5:1MAT 9:35MAT 11:28MAT 28:19MRK 1:14LUK 3:23LUK 4:18John Nelson Darby discusses the distinct characteristics and purposes of the first three Gospels, emphasizing that Mark presents a chronological account of Christ's service, while Matthew focuses on the presentation of Jesus as the Messiah and the implications of His rejection. He notes that Luke, while generally following Mark's order, includes moral teachings that are unique to his Gospel. Darby highlights the importance of understanding the genealogies and the context of Christ's ministry, particularly in relation to Israel's expectations and the establishment of the church. He concludes that the Gospels collectively reveal the nature of Christ's mission and the unfolding of God's plan for humanity.
Colossians 1:15-18
By St. John Chrysostom0MAT 18:10MAT 23:3JHN 14:27ACT 23:51CO 3:102CO 5:18EPH 2:14COL 1:15HEB 2:17John Chrysostom preaches about the exalted nature of Jesus Christ as the Image of the invisible God and the Firstborn of all creation. He emphasizes that Jesus, as God's Son, is the exact likeness of God and superior to all, including Angels. Chrysostom explains that Jesus, as the Firstborn from the dead, is the Firstfruits of the Resurrection, reconciling all things to Himself through His sacrifice on the Cross. He highlights the importance of peace, unity, and reconciliation among believers, pointing out that Christ's work brought harmony between heaven and earth, even reconciling Angels and humans.
The Monastic Life
By Archbishop Chrysostomos0MAT 23:3PHP 2:3COL 3:231TI 4:8JAS 1:22Archbishop Chrysostomos addresses the misunderstandings and challenges presented by Abbot Laurence regarding Orthodox monasticism, emphasizing the importance of traditional practices and the true essence of monastic life. He highlights the dangers of focusing on external appearances and superficial practices rather than the internal transformation and spiritual growth that monasticism should cultivate. Archbishop Chrysostomos defends the Prayer of Jesus as a central aspect of Orthodox monasticism, refuting accusations of idolatry and emphasizing its profound spiritual significance. He also stresses the significance of obedience, simplicity, and humility in the monastic life, contrasting it with the misconceptions and misinterpretations presented by Abbot Laurence.
Homily 6 1 John 3:19-4:3
By St. Augustine0MAT 5:19MAT 23:3JHN 15:13ROM 2:211JN 4:1St. Augustine preaches about the importance of discerning the spirits and testing them to see if they are from God. He emphasizes the need to look beyond words and examine deeds, particularly in relation to confessing that Jesus Christ came in the flesh. Those who have charity and love one another demonstrate the Spirit of God, while those who divide the Church, lack unity, and go against Christ's teachings are considered antichrists. St. Augustine urges believers to question their own hearts, seek unity, and abide in the love of God to discern the true Spirit.
Pharisees Do Not Practise What They Preach
By Zac Poonen0PRO 19:2JER 23:17JER 23:30MAT 7:21MAT 23:3ACT 1:1COL 3:17JAS 1:221JN 3:18Zac Poonen delivers a powerful sermon contrasting the Pharisees who taught but did not practice what they preached with Jesus who did first and then taught. He emphasizes the importance of living out the Word before preaching it, highlighting that true anointing and life in preaching come from personal experience. Poonen warns against seeking honor for oneself by preaching secondhand sermons and urges preachers to only share what they have first practiced in their own lives.
Some Wickedly Act Independently of the Bishop
By Ignatius of Antioch0MAT 7:21MAT 23:3JAS 1:221JN 3:18Ignatius of Antioch emphasizes the importance of not just being called Christians, but living out the true essence of Christianity. He warns against mere lip service and hypocrisy, stressing the need for genuine actions that align with one's faith. Ignatius highlights the discrepancy between professing faith and living it out, pointing out that true blessedness comes from authentic Christian living and obedience to the teachings of Christ.
Epistle 20
By George Fox0PSA 36:9MAT 23:3JHN 8:36JHN 14:62CO 4:10EPH 2:61TH 5:5JAS 1:22JAS 3:171JN 1:7George Fox preaches to his brethren about walking in the pure light of God, being children of the light and of the day, and not being swayed by worldly influences or false liberties. He emphasizes the importance of waiting upon God in fear and having the Son made manifest within each individual to experience true freedom and unity. Fox urges his listeners to let their light shine before others, leading them to the fountain of light and life, where unity and cleansing from sin are found through Jesus Christ.
(A Spiritual Leader) 9. Serving by God's Power
By Zac Poonen0MAT 15:12MAT 23:31CO 3:122CO 3:5GAL 1:10Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of spiritual leaders doing all their work in the will of God, by the power of God, and for the glory of God. He highlights that true servants of the new covenant are equipped and made adequate by God, and therefore cannot take credit for their labors. Poonen stresses the significance of recognizing whether what is being shared is produced by God or by human effort, cautioning against pride in ministry. He warns against relying solely on human abilities and methods in ministry, emphasizing the necessity of the Holy Spirit's power for lasting impact.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
All therefore--that is, all which, as sitting in that seat and teaching out of that law. they bid you observe, that observe and do--The word "therefore" is thus, it will be seen, of great importance, as limiting those injunctions which He would have them obey to what they fetched from the law itself. In requiring implicit obedience to such injunctions, He would have them to recognize the authority with which they taught over and above the obligations of the law itself--an important principle truly; but He who denounced the traditions of such teachers (Mat 15:3) cannot have meant here to throw His shield over these. It is remarked by WEBSTER and WILKINSON that the warning to beware of the scribes is given by Mark and Luke (Mar 12:38; Luk 20:46) without any qualification: the charge to respect and obey them being reported by Matthew alone, indicating for whom this Gospel was especially written, and the writer's desire to conciliate the Jews.
John Gill Bible Commentary
All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe,.... This must be restrained to things that were agreeable to the chair of Moses, in which they sat, to the law of Moses, which they read and explained, to other parts of Scripture and truth in general; for otherwise many of their glosses and traditions were repugnant to the law, and ought not to be observed, as appears from Mat 5:1. The word "observe", in this clause, is omitted by the Vulgate Latin, Arabic, and Ethiopic versions, and in Munster's Hebrew Gospel; and Beza says, it is wanting in one ancient copy, but is in others; and is retained in the Syriac and Persic versions that observe and do; hearken to what they say, give diligent heed unto it, take notice of it, and act according to it: but do not ye after their works; let their doctrine be the rule of your lives, so far as it agrees with the law of Moses; but let not their actions be drawn into an example by you; conform to their instructions, but do not imitate their practices: for they say, and do not; they talk of good works, but do none; they bid others do them, but do not practise them themselves; they very strictly and severely enjoin them on others, but are very careless themselves to observe them; and of this the Jews are so conscious, that they suggest the same doctrine (n). "The daughter of Ahar (a wicked man) came before Rabbi; she said to him, Rabbi, supply me with the necessaries of life: he replied to her, daughter, who art thou? she answered him, the daughter of Ahar: he said to her, is there any of his seed in the world? for lo! it is written, Job 18:19. "He shall neither have son, nor nephew, among his people, nor any remaining, in his dwellings": she replied to him, , "remember his law, or doctrine, but do not remember his works."--Says R. Jochanan, what is that which is written, Mal 2:7. "For the priest's lips should keep knowledge, and they should seek the law at his mouth; for he is the messenger of the Lord of hosts." If the doctor is like to an angel, or messenger of the Lord of hosts, they should seek the law at his mouth; and if not, they should not seek the law at his mouth. Says Resh Lekish, R. Meir found and explained that Scripture, Pro 22:17. "Bow down thine ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply thine heart to my knowledge": to their knowledge it is not said, but to my knowledge. R. Chanina says, hence, Psa 45:10. "Hearken, O daughter! and consider, incline thine ear, forget thine own people, and thy father's house": on which the gloss is, forget their works, and do not learn them: he that knows how to take care not to learn their works, may learn the law from their mouths.'' --And a little after, "the disciples of the wise men are like to a nut; as a nut, though it is defiled with mire and filth, yet that which is within it is not to be rejected; so a scholar, or a disciple of a wise man, though he act wickedly, his law, or doctrine, is not to be despised.'' Good doctrine is not the worse for being taught by bad men; nor are good works to be slighted and neglected, because they are not done by all that teach them; but it must be owned that examples are very useful and forcible, and practice greatly recommends doctrine; and it is to be wished, that they both always went together. (n) T. Bab. Chagiga, fol. 15. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
23:3 practice and obey: This was not a blanket endorsement of all that the Pharisees teach (see 15:1-20; 16:5-12; 23:13-39). It might refer only to what was in accord with the law of Moses, or it might be bitter irony or sarcasm. Jesus might also have been counseling conformity to the Pharisees’ teachings to avoid giving offense (17:24-27).