New Testament
Matthew 22:16
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
They sent their disciples to him along with supporters of Herod. "Teacher," they said, "we know you're an honest man who teaches God's way truthfully. You don't play favorites or care about anyone's status.
Compare translations
And they sent out unto him their disciples with the Herodians, saying, Master, we know that thou art true, and teachest the way of God in truth, neither carest thou for any man: for thou regardest not the person of men.
What Matthew 22:16 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a group of people, including the disciples of the Pharisees and supporters of Herod, approach Jesus with flattery. They acknowledge His honesty and His commitment to teaching God's truth without bias. This statement is meant to set a trap for Jesus, as they intend to ask Him a controversial question about paying taxes to Caesar. Their praise highlights Jesus' integrity and impartiality, which contrasts with their ulterior motives. This moment illustrates the tension between Jesus and the religious leaders of the time, who often sought to undermine His authority. The verse emphasizes the importance of truthfulness and the dangers of insincere flattery, as well as the challenges faced by those who stand for righteousness in a politically charged environment.
How to apply Matthew 22:16 to your life
This verse reminds us to be cautious of flattery and to seek genuine truth in our interactions. We should strive to emulate Jesus' integrity by being honest and impartial in our dealings with others, regardless of their status or influence.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Questions in the Temple (Matthew 22:15–46)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Matthew 22:16
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Matthew 22:16
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 22:16 mean?
Matthew 22:16 describes a group of people, including Pharisees and Herodians, who approach Jesus with flattering words about His honesty and impartiality. Their intention is to trap Him with a question about paying taxes, highlighting the tension between Jesus and the religious leaders.
What is the significance of flattery in Matthew 22:16?
In Matthew 22:16, flattery is used as a deceptive tactic by the Pharisees and Herodians to manipulate Jesus. This moment serves as a warning about the dangers of insincere praise and the ulterior motives that can lie behind seemingly respectful words.
How does Matthew 22:16 illustrate political tension?
Matthew 22:16 illustrates political tension by showing how the Pharisees and Herodians, who typically opposed each other, unite to challenge Jesus. Their collaboration reflects the complex political landscape of the time and the threat Jesus posed to their authority.
What can we learn about integrity from Matthew 22:16?
Matthew 22:16 teaches us the importance of integrity by showcasing Jesus' honest character and impartiality. It encourages us to be truthful and fair in our interactions, regardless of others' status or influence.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.