Matthew·Chapter 23

How to Apply

Want to put this verse into action? Start by paying attention to your words this week. When you make a promise or commitment, take a moment to think about what that means to you and to the person you’re promising. Maybe it’s telling a friend you’ll help them with something important, or committing to follow through on a plan. Before you say ‘I promise,’ ask yourself if you’re ready to stand behind it fully. Try writing down a few commitments you want to honor, and then make sure to follow through this week. It’s all about being mindful of the promises you make and the values you’re backing them up with!

Chapter Context

Now, zooming out to the broader scene, this verse is part of a gripping moment where Jesus is calling out the religious leaders of His time. They had turned the sacred act of making promises into a game, where the rules were all twisted. This specific moment comes after a series of critiques Jesus has about how they were missing the heart of faith. So, when He talks about swearing by the altar versus what’s on it, He’s highlighting their hypocrisy and pushing them to reconsider what really matters. It’s like the climax of a movie where the hero confronts the villains, and it’s here that you can feel the tension rise—something needs to change, and this verse is a pivotal point in that story.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• and - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• if - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• anyone - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• swears - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• by - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• altar - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• is - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• nothing - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• but - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• if - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

When you think about the things you commit to, are there promises you’ve made that you need to reflect on more deeply? What do those promises say about what you value?

Related Verses

• Matthew 5:34 - Here Jesus talks about not swearing at all, emphasizing that your word should be enough.
• James 5:12 - This verse encourages honesty in what you say, reinforcing the importance of keeping your word.
• Ecclesiastes 5:5 - This verse warns against making promises lightly, highlighting the seriousness of vows.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Matthew 23:18. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Hypocrisy of leaders, Burden on the people, Servanthood over status, Blind guidance, Inversion of values, Spiritual authority, Kingdom of heaven

Key Verses

Matthew 23:4, Matthew 23:11, Matthew 23:13, Matthew 23:15, Matthew 23:23

Historical Context

Matthew 23 is part of a larger discourse where Jesus publicly confronts the religious authorities in Jerusalem. This chapter is significant as it represents one of the final public teachings of Jesus before His crucifixion. The context of this confrontation reveals the growing tension between Jesus and the Jewish leaders, as He challenges their authority and exposes their failures. Written primarily for a Jewish audience, Matthew emphasizes how Jesus fulfills the Law and the Prophets, and this chapter illustrates a critical moment where He delineates true righteousness from the corrupted practices of the leaders. The timing is crucial, as it occurs shortly before His Passion, marking a decisive point in His ministry.