This study is part of our series of verse by verse studies of Matthew, the 40th book in the Bible. Taught by our pastor, Simeon Forder, at our Sunday morning service on the 15th June 2025.

About this book

The gospel of Matthew was aimed primarily at the Jew who was familiar with the Old Testament, quoting it more than any other of the gospels. And in its 28 chapters it presents Jesus as the Messiah, the King of the Jews, with Matthew wasting no time, starting with Jesus’ royal lineage back to king David of Israel in the opening chapter. But as well as looking back, it looks forward too, being the only gospel to mention the church by name. And so make no mistake, this is a very necessary book for us to read too.

About this passage

In this study of the remainder of this chapter, we first see that the Pharisees respond to what Jesus has been saying by plotting against Him, how they might trip Him up in what He was saying, that they might have something to accuse Him of — and we see their first attempt (in a rare collaboration with the Herodians), recorded in verses 15-22, as their disciples try and put Jesus in a no-win situation.

Then, in verses 23-33, the more liberal group of religious leaders at that time — the Sadducees — also come to Jesus, to try and catch Him out in regard to their beliefs.

However, with both attempts unsuccessful the Pharisees themselves then come to Jesus, trying once more to trip Him up — only to find that they can’t, and that He responds with a question to them that they are unable to answer, and as result are unwilling to ask Him any more questions.

Application questions

• Are you paying your taxes as you should? Are you giving to God as you should? 
• Is your view of marriage, or anything, based on the Bible?
• Are you loving God as you should? Are you loving others as you should?
• Do you have a right view of who Jesus is? Is He your Lord?