King James Version

What Does Matthew 23:5 Mean?

Matthew 23:5 in the King James Version says “But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their ... — study this verse from Matthew chapter 23 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments, phylacteries: pieces of parchment containing sentences of the law

Matthew 23:5 · KJV


Context

3

All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not.

4

For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers.

5

But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments, phylacteries: pieces of parchment containing sentences of the law

6

And love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues,

7

And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This verse reveals profound theological truth central to Reformed understanding of Scripture. The passage demonstrates God's sovereignty and grace working through human circumstances. Christ's teaching here challenges contemporary religious assumptions while pointing to deeper spiritual realities.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

The historical setting involved complex religious and political dynamics. Jewish leaders maintained authority through Roman tolerance while common people sought deliverance. Jesus' teaching addressed both immediate concerns and eternal truths.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this verse deepen your appreciation for Christ?
  2. What false beliefs or practices does this text correct?
  3. How should you share this truth with others?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 23 words
πάντα1 of 23

all

G3956

all, any, every, the whole

δὲ2 of 23

But

G1161

but, and, etc

τὰ3 of 23
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἔργα4 of 23

works

G2041

toil (as an effort or occupation); by implication, an act

αὐτῶν5 of 23
G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

ποιοῦσιν6 of 23

they do

G4160

to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)

πρὸς7 of 23

for

G4314

a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,

τὸ8 of 23
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

θεαθῆναι9 of 23

to be seen

G2300

to look closely at, i.e., (by implication) perceive (literally or figuratively); by extension to visit

τοῖς10 of 23
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἀνθρώποις·11 of 23

of men

G444

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

πλατύνουσιν12 of 23

they make broad

G4115

to widen (literally or figuratively)

δὲ13 of 23

But

G1161

but, and, etc

τὰ14 of 23
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

φυλακτήρια15 of 23

phylacteries

G5440

a guard-case, i.e., "phylactery" for wearing slips of scripture texts

αὐτῶν16 of 23
G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

καὶ17 of 23

and

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

μεγαλύνουσιν18 of 23

enlarge

G3170

to make (or declare) great, i.e., increase or (figuratively) extol

τὰ19 of 23
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

κράσπεδα20 of 23

the borders

G2899

a margin, i.e., (specially), a fringe or tassel

τῶν21 of 23
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἱματίων22 of 23

garments

G2440

a dress (inner or outer)

αὐτῶν23 of 23
G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons


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 23:5 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 23:5 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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