King James Version
What Does Matthew 23:28 Mean?
“Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.”
Context
26
Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also.
27
Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness.
28
Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.
29
Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye build the tombs of the prophets, and garnish the sepulchres of the righteous,
30
And say, If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(28) **Even so ye also** **. . .**—A like image meets us in the words in which one of the Maccabean princes, Alexander Jannæus, warned his wife on his death-bed to beware of “men who were *painted* Pharisees, expecting the reward of Phinehas, while their works were the works of Zimri.”
**Iniquity.**—Better, *lawlessness*—a reckless disregard of the very Law of which they professed to be the interpreters.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 23:28 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 23:28
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge