←
Explanation for:
Matthew
23
:
3
All things therefore whatsoever they shall say to you, observe and do: but according to their works do ye not; for they say, and do not.
12
more explanations
& daily audio-books
spoken by
– enjoy in Theosis App –
Start your
Bible-journey
with explanations
& daily audio-books
only 4$* per month
{"arr":[{"author-name":"Jerome of Stridon","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88dcd3432c6dd41375498_Jerome%20of%20Stridon.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"Despite their priestly role and the honor associated with their ministry, he encourages the people to heed them, focusing not on their actions but on the teachings they proclaim."},{"author-name":"John Chrysostom","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88ea76859f9f8e2ffd3ee_John%20Chrysostom.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"When the term ‘all’ is mentioned, it should not be understood as pertaining to the entirety of the law, such as the regulations regarding food and sacrifices. How could He refer to those aspects which He had previously set aside? By ‘all,’ He indicates the principles designed to refine moral conduct, enhance one's way of living, which align with the teachings of the new covenant, and which free individuals from the burdensome regulations of the law. Why does He address these matters not from the perspective of grace, but in the context of the Mosaic law? It was not yet the appropriate moment to clarify this prior to the crucifixion. Moreover, it appears that He had a different intention when He spoke. He aimed to admonish the Pharisees, ensuring that the uninformed would not mistakenly believe He was vying for the authority they possessed, or that He acted out of animosity. Therefore, He first dispels such notions, and then He proceeds to confront them. Why does He challenge them and bring forth so many criticisms? To safeguard the people from succumbing to the same faults. Indeed, it is not merely a matter of prohibiting wrongdoing and identifying those who commit it, just as it is not equal to commend good actions and highlight virtuous individuals. This is why the Saviour, prior to reprimanding the Pharisees, states, \\"But by their works ye do not do them.\\" To prevent the people from thinking that listening to them equates to emulating them, the Saviour adds these remarks, transforming their perceived respect into shame. What could be more tragic than a teacher whose students can only attain salvation by disregarding his example? Thus, the perceived honor of these leaders becomes their ultimate downfall when their way of life leads their followers to moral decay. Consequently, the Lord now turns His rebuke upon them. Yet, His motivations extend beyond this; He also seeks to reveal that their prior disbelief and the act of crucifying Him cannot be laid at the feet of the One whom they did not believe, but are instead a reflection of their own wickedness and ingratitude. Observe how He begins and intensifies His accusations. He states, \\"They speak, and do not do.\\" Anyone who breaks the law deserves to be rebuked, and this applies even more to those entrusted with the responsibility of teaching. Such individuals warrant even greater condemnation: first, for their own transgressions; second, because, failing in their duty to correct others while being themselves in error, they merit further punishment according to their elevated position; and third, because they lead others into vice by violating the law while purporting to be its guardians. To add to this, the Saviour condemns them for their harshness towards the people they are meant to shepherd."},{"author-name":"Anonymous Commentary (Opus Imperfectum)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":4,"exegesis-text":"What message does He convey to His followers? Therefore, all that they instruct you to uphold, you should uphold and practice; however, do not emulate their actions. This indicates that those of you who attend church are not merely listeners but also evaluators of the clergy. You may perceive certain behaviors that are not right. Your assessment of the priests is based on a comparison to your own actions. Just as you absorb everything yet do not enact all that you hear, so too do priests convey all teachings, though not everyone adheres to their messages. Humanity, while fundamentally alike, varies significantly in behavior and disposition. All people are created in the same way from the outset, but distinctions among them arise for your benefit. Thus, their inherent nature remains individual, while their hierarchical positions serve a purpose for your advantage."},{"author-name":"Isidore of Pelusium","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88d94130e668938c9ae9d_Isidore%20of%20Pelusium.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":5,"exegesis-text":"Every idle word is lifeless and without purpose, particularly the words uttered by those esteemed in the priesthood. The more adeptly they seem to speak, the less credible they appear to those who observe their conduct. Thus, if they desire to draw attention to their message, they must undergo profound transformation, traversing a path of humility and silence, eschewing personal gain. If they succeed in this, not only will the actions of those beneath them begin to flourish, but they too will attain glory. It has been stated for the sake of accountability: “On Moses’ seat sat the scribes and Pharisees; all things therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not.” This serves to emphasize that their commands should not be offered as justification for themselves or as an excuse to judge others. Such false justifications only amplify their accountability, bringing forth inevitable consequences and highlighting their folly. \\n\\nWhile it benefits students to hear these truths, instructors must not call attention to failings that expose their own negligence. For it is said, \\"But according to their works ye shall not do: for they speak, and do not do.\\" In his wisdom, Christ commanded that one should not focus on the lives of leaders when such lives warrant criticism, nor on their personal actions if they stand in contrast to heavenly principles; rather, the emphasis must be on the singular doctrine shared within the churches. This brings us back to the seat of Moses; for here the scribes convey not their own thoughts but the teachings of Scripture, illustrating their hypocrisy. They ought to strive to eliminate any grounds for scandal. Yet, if those who lead righteously fail to benefit others, this cannot be laid at their feet. Just as the unrighteous will not partake in the rewards destined for the just, the righteous shall also escape the penalties meant for the sinful. Therefore, let each of you strive to better that which pertains to you, both in thought and in action. This is my expectation: do good, and I will celebrate with you; fail to do good, yet I will not strip you of honor, but will still acknowledge your efforts; for every individual will receive their appropriate recompense based on their deeds and not merely on the result of those deeds. Bearing this in mind, let both instructors and learners earnestly pursue virtue, leaving no space for excuses."},{"author-name":"Theophylact of Bulgaria","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8989296bafed9104677d7_Theophylact%20of%20Bulgaria.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":11,"exegesis-text":"He advises His followers to pay attention to the law teachers, regardless of their immoral behavior. Simultaneously, the Lord makes it clear that He does not oppose the Mosaic law; rather, He desires its principles to be upheld, despite the unworthiness of its instructors. He asserts that one should regard the teachings of the law as coming from Moses, or more accurately, from God Himself. It may be questioned whether one is obligated to follow everything these teachers command, even if it is unjust. To this, I reply that a true teacher would never lead another towards wrongdoing. Furthermore, even in the unlikely event that a teacher might attempt to prompt others towards sin, such a teacher would not do so while speaking from the 'seat of Moses,' meaning not under the authority of the law. The Lord is referring to those who occupy the seat of Moses—those who disseminate God’s law. Therefore, we should heed the teachings of those who expound on God's law, even when their actions do not align with their words."},{"author-name":"Euthymios Zigabenos","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":11,"exegesis-text":"Hence, everything they instruct you to follow, you should adhere to and implement, for their teachings are not from themselves but ordained by God through Moses. When he refers to all things, he does not indicate every single commandment, such as sacrifices or dietary regulations, as these were not abolished previously. Rather, he signifies all that is intended to guide moral correction, enhance living, and align with the teachings of the Gospel. However, their actions do not reflect adherence to this doctrine, but instead undermine it. Thus, he emphasized that we should not oppose our instructors, even if their conduct is questionable; we are to follow their teachings while refraining from mimicking their inappropriate behaviors. They merit trust in their teachings, yet their lives are not examples to follow. \\n\\nAlternatively, to clarify his intent of exposing the known transgressions of the Pharisees for the people's caution against any assumption that his criticisms stemmed from a desire for authority, he preemptively counters such beliefs by stating, \\"All things whatsoever they say to you to observe, observe and do,\\" emphasizing that we should uphold their teachings not based on their personal conduct, but because of their position and the authority of their teaching. To ensure his listeners would not mirror their lives, he adds, \\"But according to their works you shall not do them.\\" With this, he removes any doubts regarding his motives and begins his admonition. For they speak but do not act. Note the foundation from which he begins: any individual who breaks the law deserves judgment, but a teacher is accountable for three reasons: their own transgressions, their duty to guide others, and the harm they inflict on their students."},{"author-name":"Michail (Lusin)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c89550c567e172d15b3055_Michail%20(Lusin).png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"“Observe everything they tell you to obey”: the term “everything” certainly implies limitations since the Savior frequently admonished the Jews, particularly the scribes and Pharisees, for their misconceptions and misinterpretations of the law’s directives. Such erroneous interpretations should not be adhered to. The scope of “everything” must be understood in two ways: one must follow (1) all that aligns with the law, and (2) what remains valid within this law. The expression “everything” refers specifically to aspects of the law that the scribes do not distort. When hearing “everything,” do not take it to mean the entirety of the law, such as regulations regarding dietary practices or sacrifices. How could He refer to those things which He had previously abolished? Instead, by “everything,” He refers to principles that reform character, enhance one's lifestyle, and align with the ethos of the New Testament, providing liberation from the burdensome law. So why does He instruct us to be guided by the Mosaic law rather than the law of grace? Because the timing before His crucifixion did not permit a clear declaration of this (Chrysostom). \\n\\n“However, do not follow their actions”: do not emulate their conduct, as they merely “speak” of what the law requires while failing to “do” it themselves, meaning they do not live by what they preach. The overarching message is: Do not focus on their sinful ways or imitate them; instead, whatever they instruct you to do in accordance with the law, you should pursue. (Christ) emphasizes respect for the law, urging us to adhere to it despite the moral failings of those who teach it. He calls for observance of what is most beneficial for salvation, specifically not to dismiss the teachers or rebel against the priests. He maintains the respect owed to these teachers, even when flawed, which serves to heighten their guilt; and He removes any justification for disobedience from those who hear His teachings, ensuring that no one can claim, “I am complacent because my teacher is complacent.” Thus, the Savior, despite the failings of the scribes, ardently protects the integrity of their authority. Every wrongdoing deserves to be reprimanded, especially from those entrusted with teaching. Such individuals merit even greater condemnation: firstly, because they violate the law; secondly, because, obligated to guide others, their own shortcomings lead to more severe punishment due to the significance of their role; and thirdly, as they, in their role as educators, more profoundly lead others into sin through their poor examples (Zlat.). “Therefore, it is essential to heed the one teaching in accordance with divine law, even if he himself does not practice it” (Theophilus)."},{"author-name":"Abbot Panteleimon about the Trinity","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Observe and carry out whatever they command you to uphold, as long as they do not distort the Law of Moses. St. Chrysostom notes, when you hear the term 'all', do not interpret it as meaning the entire Law, such as dietary laws and sacrifices. How could He refer to what He had previously abolished? The term 'all' pertains to the principles intended to reform morals, enhance our way of living, align with the teachings of the New Covenant, and liberate us from the burden of the Law. So why does He instruct us to adhere to the Law of Moses rather than the Law of Grace? It was not fitting to make this clear prior to the cross. He shows reverence for Moses to demonstrate how His teachings align with the Old Testament, stating that the scribes should be respected because 'They sat down on Moses’ seat.' Unable to regard their lifestyles as trustworthy, He provides legitimate motivation by referencing Moses’ teaching authority. The Savior aims to exhibit His complete unity with the Father. If He contradicted the Father, He would speak against the Law. Yet, He emphasizes such respect for the Law that He instructs us to hold fast to it, even amid the corruption of its teachers. Specifically, He directs us to honor those whose teachings lead to salvation, urging us not to disdain the teachers or rebel against the priests. Furthermore, He practices what He preaches. Even amidst corruption, He preserves the respect due to these authorities, thereby exposing them to even greater condemnation, while removing any excuse for those who receive His teachings to disobey. No one can claim, 'I am inactive because my teacher is flawed.' This is why even after issuing a stern rebuke, the Savior still asserts, 'All that they command you to observe, observe and do.' They do not provide their own teachings, but God's commandments as revealed through Moses. To ensure that the people understand not to emulate the corrupt conduct of the teachers, He adds, 'THOU SHALL NOT DO THEIR THINGS.' Indeed, what could be more unfortunate than a teacher whose students are saved by turning a blind eye to his life? The supposed respect afforded to these instructors transforms into their ultimate condemnation when their lives necessitate a complete departure from goodness. St. Philaret encourages us to earnestly seek soul-saving guidance, preparing ourselves to embrace it with faith: trustworthy and faithful is God, who wills all to be saved, even through an unworthy teacher providing sound instruction. Some, seeking not enlightenment but justification for their negligent lives, believe they can find excuses in the poor conduct of others who teach. Yet, self-appointed critics of their mentors shall not find their justification in our judgment. We shall be condemned if we live unworthy of the doctrine we profess, but you too will face condemnation—both for judging your neighbor in contradiction to Jesus Christ's command and for failing to adhere to the holy doctrine that remains sacred despite being conveyed by sinful mouths. St. Chrysostom remarks on how the Lord begins and intensifies His criticism of the Pharisees: 'For they speak, and do not do.' Every transgressor deserves censure, especially those entrusted with the authority to teach. Such individuals merit even greater condemnation: first, for violating the law; second, for failing to correct others while themselves being flawed, which subjects them to intensified punishment due to the significance of their role; and third, as teachers, they lead others into vice through their poor example."},{"author-name":"Gladkow B.I.","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88bf0ceef8c96e09a6521_Gladkow%20B.I..png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Comply with all the commandments they instruct you to follow, unless they distort their meaning and importance. However, do not emulate them; do not mirror their deeds, for their words convey one message while their actions convey another."},{"author-name":"Paul Matwejewski","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8969f5be0d592d5a10576_Paul%20Matwejewski.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"After He concluded His discourse with the Pharisees, rendering them speechless, He recognized that His adversaries were afflicted by a terminal malady. He discerned the hidden motives and aspirations of the hypocritical and envious, and as He approached the culmination of His earthly ministry, He delivered a message in which He condemned the flaws of the scribes and Pharisees, masked by superficial piety. The ominous woes that these misguided leaders had previously encountered from Him (Luke 11:42-44, 47-51; 13:34, 35) were reiterated with even greater emphasis, now devoid of any expectation for the unrepentant, as He aimed ‘to safeguard the people from falling into the same vices’ (St. John Chrysostom). Understanding the infectious nature of hypocrisy towards the innocent, the Savior used vivid imagery familiar to the audience to elucidate the genuine character and motivations of those who falsely portrayed themselves as exemplary adherents and infallible interpreters of the law. With words imbued with righteous anger, the self-existent and hypostatic truth declared its judgment upon the most audacious and blasphemous acts of pretense and hypocrisy ever witnessed among humanity, cursing not only the ancient scribes and Pharisees but also all their successors with enduring disgrace. As the crowd listened attentively, He addressed His disciples, warning them to be vigilant against the scribes, who don long robes, delight in greetings in the public squares, take prominent positions in synagogues, and recline at banquets, while exploiting widows' homes and engaging in lengthy hypocritical prayers: these shall incur unnecessary judgment. Then He began to speak to the people and His disciples, stating, ‘On the seat of Moses sit the scribes and Pharisees; they have claimed the exclusive authority to interpret the law. However, while they instruct you to adhere to the law of Moses, they do not practice what they preach. If the Savior instructs His listeners to follow not the law of grace but rather the law of Moses, it is, as St. John Chrysostom notes, because ‘the time had not yet come to reveal it clearly before His crucifixion.' By eliminating any grounds for temptation or criticism of the law itself, the Lord instructs, according to the interpretation of the holy father, ‘such respect for the law that He commands it to be honored, notwithstanding the corrupt nature of its teachers, and even these corrupt figures are not stripped of due reverence, which leads them to face greater condemnation, while providing His listeners with no justification for disobedience."},{"author-name":"Bogolepow D.P.","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Jesus Christ begins by acknowledging the enduring influence and authority of the Pharisees and scribes as the educators of the people, as interpreters of the Law of Moses, and as guides for the community in adhering to God's commandments. He instructs them to follow and practice all that they are instructed to observe. However, He quickly alerts His listeners to the moral decay among the Pharisees, warning them not to emulate their conduct, which starkly contradicts the teachings laid out in the Scriptures. While the Pharisees are meticulous in their demands upon the people, they neither embrace nor enact those same demands themselves. Jesus condemns the hypocrisy and self-serving nature of the Pharisees, who insist on strict compliance to the Law from others, yet make no effort to uphold it themselves. When they do act, it is solely to seek recognition and glory from others, presenting a false front of piety without genuine devotion. In contrast, Jesus emphasizes the importance of humility to His disciples."},{"author-name":"Alexander Gorsky","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8884037c1e1c51e1332e2_Alexander%20Gorsky.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"After these events, the Lord departed from the temple, issuing a stern indictment against the Pharisees and temple priests who had led the people astray. He warned them about the impending judgment of God. Concluding His earthly mission, He proclaimed that He would persist in His work among them through His messengers. Yet, the Pharisees would harass these messengers, as well as those who had previously borne witness to the truth. In doing so, they would further compound the transgressions of their ancestors, leading to the manifestation of God's judgment upon the wickedness of Jerusalem."}]}
Support this project and get full access for only 4$/month
Commentarie text can’t be scrolled on PC at the moment. Please use your phone. We’re working on a fix.
