What is the meaning of Matthew 22:35? One of them - The phrase narrows the spotlight to a single representative from a larger group of Pharisees who had just regrouped after Jesus “silenced the Sadducees” (Matthew 22:34). - It shows the organized, almost tactical nature of the opposition: one spokesperson steps forward while the others watch, similar to the pattern in Matthew 9:3, 11 and John 8:3–6 where a crowd relies on a front-man to challenge Jesus. - The singular “one” also highlights accountability: even amid corporate resistance, every individual must decide how he will respond to Christ (compare Acts 5:34–39, where Gamaliel’s lone voice differs from his peers). an expert in the law - This man is not a casual questioner but a trained scribe (Luke 10:25). His credentials suggest he should recognize Messiah when He sees Him (John 5:39). - His expertise implies: • He knows the Torah and the prophets inside out (Ezra 7:6). • He is accustomed to debating fine points of commandment-keeping (Mark 7:5–9). - Ironically, the more he prides himself on knowledge, the more he misses the Author of that Law standing in front of him (Romans 10:2–4). tested Him - The verb points to motive, not curiosity. Like Satan in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1), the Pharisees’ agenda is to trip Jesus up. - Earlier tests: • “Is it lawful to divorce…?” (Matthew 19:3) • “Show us a sign from heaven” (Matthew 16:1). - Each trial ends with Jesus exposing hearts (John 2:24-25). This scene is no different; the test will become a teaching moment on the greatest commandment. with a question - Questions can be sincere (John 3:4; Acts 16:30) or sly (Matthew 21:23). Here it is the latter, yet Jesus still answers, revealing grace even toward challengers (Luke 20:21-25). - The tactic: • Frame a theological dilemma. • Force Jesus to choose a side. • Discredit Him whichever way He answers (Mark 12:13). - Instead, the question (“Teacher, which commandment is the greatest in the Law?” Matthew 22:36) becomes a doorway for Jesus to affirm Deuteronomy 6:5 and Leviticus 19:18, summarizing the entire Law and Prophets. summary Matthew 22:35 shows one Pharisee, credentialed and confident, stepping out from his peers to test Jesus with a calculated question. The verse exposes motives—testing rather than seeking—but also sets the stage for Jesus to reveal the heart of God’s Law. What begins as an attempt to entangle Christ becomes an opportunity for Him to declare that love for God and neighbor is the pinnacle of every command. |
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