“Matthew 23: Jesus Condemns Hypocrites,” New Testament Seminary Student Study Guide (2003)
“Matthew 23,” New Testament Student Study Guide
Matthew 23
Jesus Condemns Hypocrites
The word hypocrite comes from a Greek word that means “play actor.” A hypocrite is someone pretending to be something that he or she is not in order to receive recognition or gain. Hypocrisy is a result of pride. Humble followers of God seek to live according to His laws because they love God and other people—not because they will be recognized or honored for it. When it is pointed out that a humble follower of God is in the wrong, he or she immediately works toward doing what is right. The hypocrite seeks to cover sins and make excuses for them.
Throughout your study of the book of Matthew you have read about the hypocrisy of the Jewish leaders in Jesus’ day and how Jesus taught His believers to live the gospel without hypocrisy. Matthew 23 contains Jesus’ final testimony and condemnation against those who refused His teachings and testimonies of the true gospel and plan of eternal happiness.
As you read, consider what you would think about this speech if you were a Pharisee and heard it in person. How might you have felt if you were a person in those days trying to decide whether to continue following the Pharisees or to follow Jesus?
Other Accounts of What You Read in Matthew 23
Studying the Scriptures
Do either activity A or B as you study Matthew 23.
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Make a Comparison
Divide your notebook page in half. From what you read in Matthew 23:1–12, list on one side of the paper what the Pharisees thought made them great. On the other side, list what Jesus said made a person great.
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Stepping Stones of Woe
Woe is a word that refers to sorrow and suffering. Jesus said eight times in Matthew 23:13–16, 23–32 that woe would come to the scribes, Pharisees, and hypocrites. Each time, he described why they would experience this woe.
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Make two “paths” in your notebook, such as in the accompanying illustration. One path leads to sadness and damnation (see v. 33) and the other leads to happiness and glory. First, fill in the path of woe by describing in your own words the eight things Jesus said the scribes, Pharisees, and hypocrites did. (The first is already written on the chart.) Then fill in the “Pathway to Happiness” by writing what a person who follows Christ would do instead.
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Although Jesus chastised the Pharisees, He gave them many chances to listen to Him, and many witnesses were given to help them believe His gospel. Read Matthew 23:37 and explain what Jesus hoped He could do for those Jewish leaders.
Matthew 23:13—We should live the gospel and help others to know and live the truth.
Matthew 23:13—They taught false doctrine and kept themselves and others from entering heaven.
Happiness and Eternal Life
Pathway to Happiness
Stepping Stones of Woe
Sadness and Damnation
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