What does Matthew 23:21 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 23:21 is part of a larger discourse in which Jesus criticizes the Pharisees and teachers of the law for their hypocrisy.

In this particular verse, He explains the principle that swearing by the temple is not just swearing by the building itself, but also by God, who dwells within it.

The core message is that the temple, considered God's dwelling place, cannot be separated from God Himself.

Therefore, taking an oath by the temple is a serious commitment that invokes God as a witness to the vow being made.

Historical Context

Matthew 23 is set during the week leading up to Jesus' crucifixion.

The temple in Jerusalem was the Jewish people's holiest site, believed to be where God's presence resided in a special way.

In this period, taking oaths by swearing on something sacred was a common practice, which Jesus criticizes, especially when it is done hypocritically or deceitfully.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse speaks to the holiness of God and the respect that is due to Him.

By asserting that an oath by the temple includes God Himself, Jesus emphasizes His divine authority and presence.

This correlates with the understanding of God's omnipresence and the sanctity of religious commitments.

Different theological perspectives would highlight the importance of sincerity in vows (Protestant), the sacred nature of oaths (Catholic), or might focus on the presence of God beyond physical structures (Eastern Orthodox).

Practical Applications

From a practical standpoint, Matthew 23:21 can remind believers to consider the weight of their words and commitments.

It advises against making oaths lightly and encourages integrity, reminding individuals to be mindful that God is the ultimate witness to all promises and actions.

In daily life, this might translate to behaving authentically, keeping one's word, and honoring commitments with the seriousness they deserve.

Cross-References

• Matthew 5:33-37 - "But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil."
• Hebrews 6:16 - "For men verily swear by the greater: and an oath for confirmation is to them an end of all strife."
• Exodus 20:24 - "An altar of earth thou shalt make unto me, and shalt sacrifice thereon thy burnt offerings, and thy peace offerings, thy sheep, and thine oxen: in all places where I record my name I will come unto thee, and I will bless thee."

Language Study

The key phrase in this verse is "swear by the temple." The original Greek word for "swear" used here is "ὀμνύω" (omnyo), implying a solemn oath or vow.

The idea is that one is invoking something sacred as a guarantee of their truthfulness or commitment.

When referring to the "temple" ("ναὸς" or "naos" in Greek), it indicates not just the physical building but the dwelling place of God, signifying a sacred space.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In many ancient cultures and religions, temples and similar sacred structures were considered the dwelling places of deities.

Taking oaths by such holy sites was a common practice, as it is believed that doing so invoked the deity's power and presence.

Comparatively, in the Greco-Roman world, oaths were often made before gods or at temples.

Similarly, in the Hebrew tradition, the temple held a unique place as the focal point of God's presence among His people.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, there isn't a direct correlation since the verse deals with religious practices and theological concepts.

However, modern psychology could contribute to the understanding of how the perceived sanctity of a location or object affects human behavior and the seriousness with which one might approach making oaths or commitments.

commentaries

Commentators like William Barclay suggest that Jesus' point in this verse is to expose the artificial and casuistic distinctions the Pharisees used to evade the true spirit of an oath.

John Calvin emphasizes that Jesus is not just criticizing external rituals but pointing to the need for integrity and truthfulness.

Matthew Henry's commentary expands on the idea that God's presence in the temple makes oaths sworn by it more solemn and that Jesus is underscoring the sincerity such oaths should express.