New Testament
Matthew 22:35
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Then one of them, who was a lawyer, asked him a question, trying to tempt him, and said,
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Then one of them, which was a lawyer, asked him a question, tempting him, and saying,
What Matthew 22:35 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a lawyer, who is knowledgeable in Jewish law, approaches Jesus with a question. His intention is not to seek genuine understanding but to challenge and test Jesus, hoping to catch him in a mistake. This reflects a common theme in the Gospels where religious leaders often try to trap Jesus with tricky questions. The lawyer's role signifies the importance of the law in Jewish culture, and his question sets the stage for a deeper discussion about the greatest commandments. Jesus' response will reveal his authority and understanding of the law, emphasizing love and relationship over mere rule-following. This interaction highlights the tension between Jesus and the religious authorities, showcasing their attempts to undermine him while also illustrating Jesus' wisdom and insight into the true essence of the law.
How to apply Matthew 22:35 to your life
When faced with challenging questions or situations, we can learn from Jesus' example of responding with wisdom and clarity. Instead of getting defensive, we should seek to understand the heart behind the questions and respond in a way that reflects love and truth.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Questions in the Temple (Matthew 22:15–46)
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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.
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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 22:35 mean?
Matthew 22:35 describes a lawyer who questions Jesus with the intent to challenge him. This interaction highlights the tension between Jesus and religious leaders, as they often sought to test his knowledge and authority.
What is the significance of the lawyer in Matthew 22:35?
The lawyer represents the Jewish legal system and the importance of the law in Jewish culture. His question to Jesus sets the stage for a deeper discussion about the greatest commandments.
Why did the lawyer ask Jesus a question in Matthew 22:35?
The lawyer asked Jesus a question to test him, not to seek genuine understanding. This reflects the broader theme of religious leaders attempting to undermine Jesus' authority.
How does Matthew 22:35 relate to the greatest commandments?
Matthew 22:35 sets up a discussion where Jesus will explain the greatest commandments, emphasizing love for God and neighbor as central to the law, contrasting with mere rule-following.
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