Matthew 23:3

All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, [that] observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not.

All {G3956} therefore {G3767} whatsoever {G302}{G3745} they bid {G2036} you {G5213} observe {G5083}, that observe {G5083} and {G2532} do {G4160}; but {G1161} do {G4160} not {G3361} ye after {G2596} their {G846} works {G2041}: for {G1063} they say {G3004}, and {G2532} do {G4160} not {G3756}.

So whatever they tell you, take care to do it. But don't do what they do, because they talk but don't act!

So practice and observe everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach.

all things therefore whatsoever they bid you, these do and observe: but do not ye after their works; for they say, and do not.

Context

Matthew 23:3 is part of Jesus' severe denunciation of the Scribes and Pharisees, delivered to the crowds and His disciples in Jerusalem. Preceding this verse, Jesus acknowledges their legitimate, albeit self-appointed, authority by stating they "sit in Moses' seat" (Matthew 23:2). This position implied they were the authoritative interpreters of the Law of Moses. Jesus' instruction here is a critical distinction: listen to their accurate interpretations of the Law, but do not emulate their unrighteous conduct.

Key Themes

This verse highlights several profound themes:

  • Distinction Between Teaching and Conduct: Jesus commands obedience to their teachings *when those teachings align with God's Law*, but strongly warns against imitating their actions. This underscores the principle that the validity of truth is not always negated by the flaws of the messenger.
  • The Peril of Hypocrisy: The core of Jesus' critique is the Pharisees' profound hypocrisy. They 'say, and do not,' presenting an outward show of piety while their hearts and deeds betray their words. This is a recurring theme in Jesus' ministry, where He often contrasted outward observance with inward transformation (Matthew 15:8).
  • Integrity in Leadership: The passage serves as a timeless warning for all those in positions of spiritual or moral authority. True leadership is characterized by consistency between one's proclaimed beliefs and one's actual lifestyle.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "Moses' seat" (Greek: kathedras Mouseos) is not a literal chair, but a metaphorical expression signifying the authoritative position of teaching and interpreting the Law of Moses. It implies a recognized, though often self-proclaimed, spiritual authority. Jesus acknowledges this position but immediately exposes the moral bankruptcy of those occupying it. The emphasis on 'they say, and do not' powerfully conveys their lack of integrity, highlighting the chasm between their verbal pronouncements and their practical living.

Practical Application

Matthew 23:3 remains highly relevant for believers today:

  • Discernment is Key: We are called to be discerning. While respecting positions of authority, we must always test teachings against God's Word (Acts 17:11). If a teaching aligns with Scripture, it should be followed, regardless of the teacher's imperfections. However, we are never to emulate ungodly behavior.
  • Call to Authenticity: This verse is a powerful reminder for all followers of Christ to live authentically. Our faith should not be merely a matter of words or outward religious observance, but should be genuinely reflected in our actions and character. As James 1:22 says, we must 'be doers of the word, and not hearers only.'
  • Accountability for Leaders: For those in spiritual leadership roles, this passage is a sober warning against hypocrisy and a call to live lives of integrity. Leaders are entrusted with guiding others, and their example carries immense weight.
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.

  • 2 Timothy 3:5

    Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

  • Romans 2:19

    And art confident that thou thyself art a guide of the blind, a light of them which are in darkness,

  • Romans 2:24

    For the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles through you, as it is written.

  • Titus 1:16

    They profess that they know God; but in works they deny [him], being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.

  • Acts 5:29

    Then Peter and the [other] apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.

  • Psalms 50:16

    ¶ But unto the wicked God saith, What hast thou to do to declare my statutes, or [that] thou shouldest take my covenant in thy mouth?

  • Psalms 50:20

    Thou sittest [and] speakest against thy brother; thou slanderest thine own mother's son.

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