Legalism

Matthew 23:23-24

I. The general woe & condemnation of this series.

Like the other seven presented in this chapter, Jesus pronounces the condemnation based upon the overall hypocrisy of the Pharisees and scribes.

As one commentator says…

Hypocrisy is the real enemy of this pericope, not the scribes, the Pharisees, or the Jews. If, on the model of this pericope, a bitter woe is to be pronounced against anyone today, it must be directed solely against hypocrisy in the church (cf. 1 Peter 2:1).”844[1]

II. The accusation. Vs.23-24

A. They pay tithes of the smallest matter.

| Demonstrative of lawful practices with the absence of, gladness, honor, or privilege. |

B. They have been negligent in the heart of the law.

1. Judgment – As Moses judged Israel, ruling over their affairs, executing fairness and honesty.

2. Mercy – Not only of mercy towards one another, but the mercy of God toward man.

3. Faith – As Habakkuk 2:4 says, “The just shall live by faith”, not law!

C. They strain at the insignificant, and forget the important. Vs.24

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844 844. Hagner, Matthew 14–28, p. 673.

[1]Tom Constable, Tom Constable's Expository Notes on the Bible (Galaxie Software, 2003; 2003). Mt 23:33.