New Testament
Matthew 23:21
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When someone swears by the temple, they're swearing by it and by God who lives in it.
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And whoso shall swear by the temple, sweareth by it, and by him that dwelleth therein.
What Matthew 23:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the significance of the temple in Jerusalem, which was not just a building but also the dwelling place of God. When someone swears by the temple, they are invoking the authority of both the temple itself and God who resides there. This highlights the seriousness of making oaths and the importance of honoring commitments. Jesus is pointing out that swearing by sacred things carries weight because it connects the person to God’s presence. It serves as a reminder that our words and promises should reflect our integrity and respect for the divine. The temple symbolizes a sacred space where people encounter God, and swearing by it implies a deep responsibility to uphold truth and righteousness. Therefore, this teaching encourages believers to be mindful of their words and the commitments they make, recognizing that they are ultimately accountable to God.
How to apply Matthew 23:21 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 character and relationship with God. Strive to be truthful and reliable 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 23:21 mean?
Matthew 23:21 explains that when someone swears by the temple, they are not only swearing by the temple itself but also by God who resides there. This highlights the seriousness of making oaths and the connection between sacred spaces and divine authority.
What is the significance of swearing by the temple in Matthew 23:21?
Swearing by the temple signifies invoking the authority of both the temple and God. It emphasizes the weight of promises made in the presence of the divine, reminding individuals of their responsibility to uphold truth.
How does Matthew 23:21 relate to integrity?
Matthew 23:21 relates to integrity by emphasizing that swearing by sacred things, like the temple, carries a responsibility to be truthful. It encourages individuals to reflect on the seriousness of their commitments and the impact of their words.
What lesson can we learn from Matthew 23:21?
The lesson from Matthew 23:21 is to approach promises and commitments with seriousness and integrity. It reminds us that our words should reflect our character and our relationship with God, highlighting the importance of being truthful.
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