New Testament
Matthew 23:28
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That's exactly what you're like. On the outside you look righteous to everyone, but on the inside you're full of hypocrisy and wickedness.
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Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.
What Matthew 23:28 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is addressing the religious leaders of His time, pointing out a significant flaw in their character. They appear righteous and morally upright to the public, but their true nature is filled with hypocrisy and evil intentions. This contrast between outward appearance and inner reality highlights the danger of being more concerned with how one is perceived rather than being genuinely good and honest. Jesus emphasizes that true righteousness comes from within and cannot be faked. The leaders' actions are a warning against superficial faith and the importance of integrity in one's beliefs and actions. This verse serves as a reminder that God sees beyond our outward actions and looks at the heart, urging us to cultivate genuine faith and righteousness rather than merely maintaining a facade.
How to apply Matthew 23:28 to your life
This verse challenges us to examine our own lives for authenticity. Are we living in a way that reflects our true beliefs, or are we merely putting on a show for others? Strive for honesty in your actions and thoughts, ensuring they align with your values and faith.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; 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 23:28 mean?
Matthew 23:28 means that Jesus is criticizing the religious leaders for being hypocritical. They appear righteous on the outside, but inside, they are filled with hypocrisy and wickedness, highlighting the importance of genuine character over mere appearances.
What is the meaning of hypocrisy in Matthew 23:28?
In Matthew 23:28, hypocrisy refers to the act of pretending to be morally upright while hiding true intentions that are corrupt. Jesus points out that the religious leaders are more focused on how they are perceived by others than on their actual moral integrity.
How does Matthew 23:28 apply to our lives today?
Matthew 23:28 encourages us to reflect on our authenticity. It challenges us to ensure that our actions and beliefs align genuinely, rather than just putting on a facade to impress others.
What does Jesus teach about righteousness in Matthew 23:28?
In Matthew 23:28, Jesus teaches that true righteousness comes from within a person, not just from outward appearances. He emphasizes that God values inner integrity and honesty over superficial displays of faith.
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