King James Version

What Does Matthew 15:9 Mean?

Matthew 15:9 in the King James Version says “But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.” — study this verse from Matthew chapter 15 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.”

Matthew 15:9 · KJV

Context

7

Ye hypocrites, well did Esaias prophesy of you, saying,

8

This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me.

9

But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.

10

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

11

Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The indictment culminates: they worship 'in vain' (Greek 'maten'—uselessly, to no purpose). When human commandments replace divine doctrine, worship becomes empty ritual that God rejects. The Reformed understanding of worship's regulative principle emerges here: we worship God according to His prescribed will, not human invention. Teaching 'doctrines the commandments of men' perverts truth, leading others into vain worship. This has massive implications for church practice—tradition must bow to Scripture.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Jewish tradition had developed extensively during the intertestamental period, attempting to apply Torah to every life situation. While some traditions aided devotion, others (like Corban) contradicted Scripture's intent. Jesus distinguishes between helpful custom and authoritative doctrine, the latter requiring divine origin.

Reflection Questions

  1. What worship practices in your church are biblical versus traditional?
  2. How can traditions enhance worship without replacing scriptural mandates?
  3. What 'commandments of men' might you be teaching as doctrine?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 8 words
μάτην1 of 8

“in vain”

G3155

folly, i.e., (adverbially) to no purpose

δὲ2 of 8

“But”

G1161

but, and, etc

σέβονταί3 of 8

“they do worship”

G4576

to revere, i.e., adore

με4 of 8

“me”

G3165

me

διδάσκοντες5 of 8

“teaching”

G1321

to teach (in the same broad application)

διδασκαλίας6 of 8

“for doctrines”

G1319

instruction (the function or the information)

ἐντάλματα7 of 8

“the commandments”

G1778

an injunction, i.e., religious precept

ἀνθρώπων8 of 8

“of men”

G444

man-faced, i.e., a human being

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Matthew 15:9 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Matthew 15:9 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Isaiah 29:13Mark 7:7Titus 1:141 Timothy 1:4Colossians 2:18-221 Timothy 4:6-7

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