Matthew 23:20

Matthew 23:20 is part of Jesus' strong condemnation of the scribes and Pharisees, specifically addressing their distorted teachings regarding oaths. Here, Jesus clarifies that an oath made by the altar inherently includes all offerings placed upon it, exposing their attempts to circumvent the binding nature of vows.

Context

This verse is embedded within Jesus' fierce denunciation of the religious leaders in Matthew 23. Prior to verse 20, Jesus had already challenged their casuistry in Matthew 23:16-19, where they taught that swearing by the Temple or the altar was not binding, but swearing by the gold of the Temple or the gift on the altar was binding. Their intention was to create loopholes that allowed them to break less "binding" oaths while upholding those that benefited them financially or socially. Jesus systematically dismantles this deceptive logic, asserting that the sanctity of the 'gold' or the 'gift' derived from the sacredness of the 'Temple' or the 'altar' itself.

Key Themes

• Integrity of Oaths and Vows: Jesus emphasizes that an oath, even if seemingly indirect, ultimately connects to what makes it sacred. Swearing by the altar implies swearing by God, to whom the altar and its sacrifices are dedicated. This highlights the importance of truthfulness and the solemnity of promises made, whether to God or man. The principle is that all oaths, if genuine, are ultimately before God, who is truth itself.
• Spiritual Blindness and Hypocrisy: The Pharisees' intricate distinctions revealed their spiritual blindness and hypocrisy. They were more concerned with legalistic interpretations that served their own interests than with genuine truth and devotion. Jesus' words expose their attempt to manipulate divine law for personal gain, revealing a deep lack of integrity. This echoes His broader warnings about those who honor God with their lips but whose hearts are far from Him (Matthew 15:8).
• The Sanctity of Sacred Objects: The altar, as the place of sacrifice and atonement, was consecrated to God. By extension, everything placed upon it became holy. Jesus' teaching reinforces the idea that sacred objects derive their holiness from their connection to God, and therefore, an oath involving such an object cannot be trivialized.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for 'swear' here is ὀμνύω (omnȳō), meaning 'to take an oath' or 'to vow.' Jesus' argument isn't about the specific word used in an oath, but the underlying intent and the ultimate authority invoked. The phrase 'all things thereon' (πᾶσι τοῖς ἐπ’ αὐτοῦ - pasi tois ep' autou) underscores the comprehensive nature of the altar's sanctity; it's not just the altar itself, but everything connected to its sacred function.

Practical Application

For believers today, Matthew 23:20 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of integrity and truthfulness in all our words and commitments.

• Speak with Integrity: Jesus' teaching here, along with His more direct command in Matthew 5:37 to 'let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay,' encourages simplicity and honesty in speech, eliminating the need for elaborate oaths. Our 'yes' should mean yes, and our 'no' should mean no.
• Avoid Deception: This verse cautions against seeking loopholes or making subtle distinctions to avoid personal responsibility or deceive others. God values a sincere heart over outward religious performance.
• Reverence for the Sacred: It reminds us to treat all things associated with God and His worship with reverence, understanding that their significance comes from their connection to Him.

Ultimately, this passage calls us to live lives characterized by truth and transparency, reflecting the character of God Himself.