New Testament
Matthew 15:1
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, we see a group of religious leaders, specifically the scribes and Pharisees, coming from Jerusalem to confront Jesus.
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Then scribes and Pharisees from Jerusalem came to Jesus and said,
Then came to Jesus scribes and Pharisees, which were of Jerusalem, saying,
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a group of religious leaders, specifically the scribes and Pharisees, coming from Jerusalem to confront Jesus. Their arrival signifies a challenge to His authority and teachings. The scribes were experts in the Jewish law, while the Pharisees were a prominent religious group known for their strict adherence to the law and traditions. By coming to Jesus, they are likely seeking to question Him about His practices and beliefs, particularly regarding the law of Moses. This encounter sets the stage for a deeper discussion about the nature of true righteousness and the importance of inner purity over mere external observance of the law. The tension between Jesus and these leaders highlights the conflict between traditional religious practices and the new teachings that Jesus was bringing, which emphasized love, mercy, and the spirit of the law rather than just the letter of it.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Matthew 15:1 to your life
This verse reminds us to examine our own motivations and beliefs. Are we holding onto traditions that may not align with the core teachings of love and compassion? It's essential to prioritize our relationship with God over mere rule-following, ensuring our faith is genuine and heartfelt.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 15:1 mean?
Matthew 15:1 describes a confrontation between Jesus and religious leaders, specifically the scribes and Pharisees from Jerusalem. Their visit indicates a challenge to Jesus' authority and teachings, particularly regarding Jewish law.
Who are the scribes and Pharisees in Matthew 15:1?
In Matthew 15:1, the scribes are experts in Jewish law, while the Pharisees are a religious group known for their strict adherence to traditions. Together, they represent the established religious authority questioning Jesus.
What does this verse reveal about Jesus' relationship with religious leaders?
This verse highlights the tension between Jesus and the religious leaders of His time. It sets the stage for a conflict over interpretations of the law and the nature of true righteousness.
How does Matthew 15:1 relate to the themes of tradition and innovation?
Matthew 15:1 illustrates the clash between traditional religious practices upheld by the Pharisees and the innovative teachings of Jesus, which emphasize love and inner purity over strict rule-following.

The Book of Matthew
Matthew 1: The Generation and Birth of Jesus Christ
The book begins with the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. It records the generations from Abraham to David, from David until the carrying away into Babylon, and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ, each being fourteen generations. The genealogy concludes with Jacob begetting Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.
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