New Testament
Matthew 23:20
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So when someone swears by the altar, they're swearing by it and by everything on it.
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Whoso therefore shall swear by the altar, sweareth by it, and by all things thereon.
What Matthew 23:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is addressing the seriousness of oaths and the significance of what people swear by. When someone swears by the altar, they are not just making a promise; they are invoking the altar itself and everything associated with it, including the sacrifices and offerings made there. This highlights the importance of the altar in Jewish worship and the weight of the commitment being made. Jesus is emphasizing that swearing by the altar is not a trivial matter; it connects to the sacredness of the worship practices and the presence of God. By swearing by the altar, one is also acknowledging the holiness of the items placed on it, which further elevates the gravity of the oath. This teaching serves to remind us that our words and promises carry weight and should be treated with respect and integrity, as they reflect our relationship with God and our commitment to truth.
How to apply Matthew 23:20 to your life
When making promises or commitments, consider the weight of your words. Approach your vows with seriousness and integrity, recognizing that they reflect your values and relationship with God. Avoid casual promises and strive to be truthful in all your dealings.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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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 23:20 mean?
Matthew 23:20 emphasizes the seriousness of making oaths. When someone swears by the altar, they are invoking not just the altar itself but everything associated with it, highlighting the weight of their commitment.
What is the significance of swearing by the altar in Matthew 23:20?
Swearing by the altar signifies a deep commitment, as it connects to the sacredness of worship and the presence of God. It shows that promises made in this context carry great importance.
What does the phrase 'by all things thereon' mean in Matthew 23:20?
The phrase 'by all things thereon' refers to everything associated with the altar, including sacrifices and offerings. It indicates that swearing by the altar involves acknowledging the holiness of these items.
How can I apply Matthew 23:20 to my life?
You can apply Matthew 23:20 by taking your promises seriously and being truthful in your commitments. Recognize that your words reflect your values and relationship with God.
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