Matthew 23:1

¶ Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples,

Then {G5119} spake {G2980} Jesus {G2424} to the multitude {G3793}, and {G2532} to his {G846} disciples {G3101},

Then Yeshua addressed the crowds and his talmidim:

Then Jesus spoke to the crowds and to His disciples:

Then spake Jesus to the multitudes and to his disciples,

Commentary

Matthew 23:1 KJV serves as a crucial introductory verse, setting the stage for one of Jesus Christ's most significant and powerful discourses. It highlights His audience and the solemn nature of the message He is about to deliver.

Context of Matthew 23:1

This verse immediately precedes Jesus' strong condemnation of the scribes and Pharisees, the religious leaders of His day. It takes place in Jerusalem during the final days leading up to His crucifixion, likely within the temple precincts. Earlier in Matthew 22, Jesus had skillfully answered various challenges from these same religious authorities, demonstrating His divine wisdom and authority. Now, He turns from defensive answers to an offensive declaration, addressing both the general public and His closest followers. This public setting underscores the importance and universal relevance of His forthcoming warnings against religious hypocrisy and misguidance.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Jesus' Authority as Teacher: By speaking to both the "multitude" and "his disciples," Jesus asserts His role as the ultimate authority in spiritual matters. His words are not private counsel but public truth for all to hear and heed.
  • Distinction in Audience: While the message is for everyone, the inclusion of "his disciples" indicates that the lessons on true righteousness versus religious pretense are particularly vital for those who seek to follow Him genuinely. This distinction suggests that the disciples, unlike the multitude, were expected to internalize and apply these truths more deeply.
  • Preparation for Rebuke: This simple introductory statement signals a shift in Jesus' ministry from parables and general teachings to direct, severe warnings against spiritual leaders who mislead the people. It prepares the listener for the harsh but necessary truths about outward religiosity without inward devotion, a theme also touched upon in Matthew 6:5.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "spake" (elalesen - ἐλάλησεν) implies a deliberate and formal address, not just casual conversation. It indicates that Jesus was about to deliver an important teaching. The "multitude" (ochlos - ὄχλος) refers to the common people, often drawn by Jesus' miracles and teachings, while "his disciples" (mathētas - μαθητάς) signifies those who had committed to learning from Him and following His way. The fact that both groups are present means the message is comprehensive, addressing both the general public who might be influenced by false teachers and the committed followers who need to discern true spiritual leadership.

Practical Application

Matthew 23:1 reminds us of the importance of listening attentively to Jesus' teachings, recognizing His supreme authority over all matters of faith and life. It challenges us to discern between genuine spiritual leadership and outward displays of religiosity that lack true heart transformation. Just as Jesus addressed both the curious crowd and His devoted followers, His words today are relevant for everyone – whether new to faith or a long-time believer. We are called to heed His warnings against hypocrisy and to seek true, inward righteousness, understanding that His teachings are universal and timeless. For more on discerning true teaching, consider Matthew 7:15.

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Cross-References

  • Matthew 15:10 (4 votes)

    ¶ And he called the multitude, and said unto them, Hear, and understand:

  • Matthew 15:20 (4 votes)

    These are [the things] which defile a man: but to eat with unwashen hands defileth not a man.

  • Luke 20:45 (4 votes)

    Then in the audience of all the people he said unto his disciples,

  • Luke 20:46 (4 votes)

    Beware of the scribes, which desire to walk in long robes, and love greetings in the markets, and the highest seats in the synagogues, and the chief rooms at feasts;

  • Luke 12:1 (4 votes)

    ¶ In the mean time, when there were gathered together an innumerable multitude of people, insomuch that they trode one upon another, he began to say unto his disciples first of all, Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.

  • Luke 12:57 (3 votes)

    Yea, and why even of yourselves judge ye not what is right?

  • Mark 7:14 (2 votes)

    And when he had called all the people [unto him], he said unto them, Hearken unto me every one [of you], and understand: