Matthew 23:9 And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven.

Matthew 23:9 "And do not call [anyone] on earth your father; for One is your Father, He who is in heaven.

9. And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven, &c.--To construe these injunctions into a condemnation of every title by which Church rulers may be distinguished from the flock which they rule, is virtually to condemn that rule itself; and accordingly the same persons do both--but against the whole strain of the New Testament and sound Christian judgment. But when we have guarded ourselves against these extremes, let us see to it that we retain the full spirit of this warning against that itch for ecclesiastical superiority which has been the bane and the scandal of Christ's ministers in every age. (On the use of the word "Christ" here, see on Mt 1:1).

JFB.

Matthew 23 Images and Notes

Brief Summary: In the foregoing chapter, we had our Saviour's discourses with the scribes and Pharisees; here we have his discourse concerning them, or rather against them. I. He allows their office (v. 2, v. 3). II. He warns his disciples not to imitate their hypocrisy and pride (v. 4-12). III. He exhibits a charge against them for divers high crimes and misdemeanors, corrupting the law, opposing the gospel, and treacherous dealing both with God and man; and to each article he prefixes a woe (v. 13-33). IV. He passes sentence upon Jerusalem, and foretels the ruin of the city and temple, especially for the sin of persecution (v. 34-39). MHC

Outline
Jesus reproves the scribes and Pharisees. (1-12)
Crimes of the Pharisees. (13-33)
The guilt of Jerusalem. (34-39)

Painted Illustration of a Pharisee During the time of Jesus

Important Topics for Bible Study

Quick Reference Map

Map of Judea in the Time of Jesus (Click to Enlarge)

Painted Illustration of a Scribe During the time of Jesus

Painted Illustration of a Rabbi During the time of Jesus

Ancient Customs

Geography
Jerusalem
Judaea

Matthew Resources

The New Testament

Matthew 23:9 "And do not call [anyone] on earth your father; for One is your Father, He who is in heaven.

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