Matthew 22:33

And when the multitude heard [this], they were astonished at his doctrine.

And {G2532} when the multitude {G3793} heard {G191} this, they were astonished {G1605} at {G1909} his {G846} doctrine {G1322}.

When the crowds heard how he taught, they were astounded;

When the crowds heard this, they were astonished at His teaching.

And when the multitudes heard it, they were astonished at his teaching.

Matthew 22:33 captures the profound impact of Jesus' teaching on the multitudes in Jerusalem, particularly after His masterful handling of a challenging question posed by the Sadducees.

Context

This verse immediately follows Jesus' brilliant refutation of the Sadducees, a Jewish sect that denied the resurrection of the dead, angels, and spirits. They attempted to trap Jesus with a hypothetical scenario about a woman married to seven brothers, asking whose wife she would be in the resurrection (Matthew 22:23-28). Jesus' response, drawn from the Pentateuch (which the Sadducees revered as authoritative Scripture) and emphasizing God's nature as "the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob," definitively proved the reality of the resurrection (Matthew 22:31-32). The phrase "when the multitude heard this" refers to their hearing Jesus' profound and unassailable argument.

Key Themes

  • Divine Authority of Jesus: The crowd's astonishment highlights Jesus' unparalleled authority and wisdom. Unlike the scribes and Pharisees, Jesus taught with an inherent power that resonated deeply, as noted elsewhere in the Gospels (Matthew 7:29). His "doctrine" or teaching was not merely interpretation but divine revelation.
  • The Power of Truth: Jesus' words, rooted in Scripture and divine truth, had a transformative and awe-inspiring effect. He exposed the error of the Sadducees' human-centric logic and revealed God's eternal plan.
  • Astonishment as a Common Reaction: Throughout the Gospels, people are frequently "astonished" or "amazed" by Jesus' miracles, His parables, and His ability to silence His opponents. This reaction underscores the extraordinary nature of His person and ministry.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "astonished" is ekplēssomai (ἐκπλήσσομαι), which means to be utterly struck out of one's senses, to be overwhelmed with amazement, or to be dumbfounded. It signifies a profound shock and wonder, indicating that Jesus' teaching went far beyond their expectations or previous understanding. The word "doctrine" comes from the Greek didachē (διδαχή), which refers to teaching, instruction, or a body of precepts.

Practical Application

Matthew 22:33 serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of Jesus' words. His teachings continue to challenge human wisdom, reveal profound spiritual truths, and inspire awe in those who genuinely seek understanding. For believers, it encourages a deeper study of His doctrine, trusting in its divine origin and transformative power. For those exploring faith, it invites them to consider the unparalleled wisdom and authority of Jesus Christ, whose words continue to astound and enlighten generations.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • John 7:46

    The officers answered, Never man spake like this man.

  • Matthew 22:22

    When they had heard [these words], they marvelled, and left him, and went their way.

  • Mark 6:2

    And when the sabbath day was come, he began to teach in the synagogue: and many hearing [him] were astonished, saying, From whence hath this [man] these things? and what wisdom [is] this which is given unto him, that even such mighty works are wrought by his hands?

  • Luke 20:39

    ¶ Then certain of the scribes answering said, Master, thou hast well said.

  • Luke 20:40

    And after that they durst not ask him any [question at all].

  • Luke 2:47

    And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.

  • Mark 12:17

    And Jesus answering said unto them, Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's. And they marvelled at him.

Add TrulyRandomVerse to your Home Screen for quick access!

← Back