Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes. Jesus warned about outward religion, pride, and strict traditions that hinder spiritual growth. Pharisee attitudes seek praise, focus on appearances, and place burdens on others. True greatness is humble service. We must avoid hypocrisy by letting God change our hearts, not just our actions. Examine yourself honestly and seek sincere faith. Reject legalism and live with justice, mercy, and absolute devotion to Christ.
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
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Scriptures used in this lesson:
Matthew 23:1, Matthew 5:20, Matthew 12:24, Luke 5:21, James 5:14-15, Matthew 12:14, Matthew 21:46, Matthew 23:2-4, Mark 7:13, 1 Thessalonians 4:17, Matthew 16:18, Psalm 47:1, Psalm 149:1, Psalm 149:3, Matthew 23:5-7, Matthew 23:8-12, Matthew 23:11, Matthew 20:25-27, Matthew 5:5, Matthew 18:1-4, Luke 22:27, John 13:1-5, Philippians 2:5-7, 1 Peter 5:5-6, James 4:5-10, Matthew 23:13, Matthew 23:15, Romans 14:17, Psalm 24:1, Matthew 23:19, Matthew 23:33, Matthew 25:21, Matthew 23:30-33, Matthew 23:34-35, Genesis 4:10, Matthew 23:36, Revelation 5:10, Revelation 6:9-11, Revelation 17:5-6, Revelation 17:18, Revelation 18:24, Revelation 11:8, Matthew 24:2, Matthew 24:21, Revelation 3:21, Matthew 23:37-39, Matthew 23:39, Revelation 1:7, Luke 21:20-24, Luke 21:18-19, Luke 19:41-44,
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
Introduction to the Lesson
This lesson is one of the main reasons we’re studying the book of Matthew. I have notes for all 39 verses in chapter 23. Usually, I have not covered so many verses in one session, and I am not planning to go through every single note tonight. I know what I want to highlight, and I believe the Lord has shown me key points that will be meaningful for you.
Today’s teaching is unique. The reason I wanted to explore Matthew’s gospel is to help us see what a Pharisee really is and what they do. The main focus of this lesson, however, will be the great tribulation. I believe many listeners have a desire to know more about this topic.
Some of you might be hearing certain things for the first time. Others may have learned about them before but have not really thought them through. This teaching will help us remove scales from our eyes and see these passages in a new light. For those who already know about these things, today’s lesson will provide a foundation for deeper scriptural understanding—a solid addition to your spiritual house.
When is or was the great tribulation, and why did or will it come? Are you ready?
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
Jesus’ Final Public Message and the Olivet Discourse
Verse 1 of chapter 23 says, then spake Jesus to the multitude and to his disciples.
“Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples,” (Matthew 23:1)
Jesus’ final public message to the crowds was delivered in the temple. After this, in chapter 24, Jesus speaks only to his disciples on the Mount of Olives. This latter teaching is known as the Olivet discourse, where he explains to the disciples what is going to happen in the near future. The public discourse in chapter 23 is the last time Jesus speaks openly to the people about the kingdom of God.
It is significant that Jesus did not use his final opportunity with the crowds to speak about sin, the devil, or the flesh. Instead, he focused on warning about false religious teachers, the Pharisees and scribes. This emphasis shows how important it was for him to address the dangers of spiritual deception.
Matthew 23 is organized into three main parts. First, it describes the sins of the scribes and Pharisees in verses 1–12. Second, it lists the seven woes that Jesus pronounced over them in verses 13–36. Finally, the chapter ends with a lament over Jerusalem in verses 37–39.
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
The Pharisees—False Righteousness and Its Dangers
Throughout his ministry, Jesus increasingly confronted the scribes and Pharisees. Beginning with the Sermon on the Mount, he made it clear that true righteousness must go beyond that of these religious leaders, or one could not enter the kingdom of God.
“For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:20)
The Pharisees appeared to be very righteous. They fasted twice a week, repeated long prayers, and tithed even their smallest herbs. Jesus said that kind of outward righteousness was not enough. He reminds us that true righteousness must exceed theirs.
Contemporary Relevance of Jesus’ Confrontation with Pharisees
The story of Jesus and the Pharisees is not just from the past. It applies to us today. As we proclaim the message of the kingdom, we will likely come into conflict with those who prioritize tradition over truth. As we confront false teachings, we may be falsely accused or even slandered, just as Jesus was.
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
People might mock or call us names. Some will say we are extreme, or even call us cults. They once accused Jesus of using the power of the devil. This proves that the battle against religious opposition is ongoing, especially for those who take a stand for God’s word and kingdom.
“But when the Pharisees heard it, they said, This fellow doth not cast out devils, but by Beelzebub the prince of the devils.” (Matthew 12:24)
Jesus’ Miracles and Accusations
They said that he got his power through the devil Beelzebub. The Pharisees and religious leaders decided to spread this rumor. Like rumors do, it snowballed.
“And the scribes and the Pharisees began to reason, saying, Who is this which speaketh blasphemies? Who can forgive sins, but God alone?” (Luke 5:21)
People accused Jesus of blasphemy because he forgave sins. They asked how anyone could forgive sins except God. If we go around forgiving people, we might face similar criticism. Some may question our authority or intentions, but can you forgive sins?
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
James 5:14–15 teaches us that believers can pray the prayer of faith for the sick. When the elders of the church pray and anoint someone with oil, the Lord will heal them. If a person has sinned, the elders can forgive those sins. Scripture shows that God works through prayer and faith to restore and forgive.
“Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.” (James 5:14-15)
Church Leadership, Tradition, and Spiritual Burdens
Can you forgive sin? And they’ll say you blasphemed when you do that.
Jesus was with publicans and sinners. They say he gets his power through the prince of the devils—he must be a cult leader. He breaks the Sabbath, and he doesn’t worship like we do. They held counsel on how they might destroy him.
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
“Then the Pharisees went out, and held a council against him, how they might destroy him.” (Matthew 12:14)
You have not really experienced life until you have faced judgment from a “council.” Being voted on is a unique experience. I have had people hold council and decide my fate. I have been voted on with the intention of destroying me. It is difficult, but it happens.
Traditions Versus the Word – Burdens Placed by Leaders
People accused Jesus of casting out devils by the power of Beelzebub. They also said his disciples broke the traditions of the elders. Jesus said his disciples would always break those traditions. Then they tried to trap him by asking questions about divorce, taxes, and the resurrection. Matthew 21:46 says they wanted to seize him, but they feared the crowds.
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
“But when they sought to lay hands on him, they feared the multitude, because they took him for a prophet.” (Matthew 21:46)
Jesus was always in conflict with the religious leaders of his time. These leaders believed they were descendants of Abraham and destined for heaven. In reality, Jesus called them vipers, serpents, and sons of hell.
The religious leaders saw Jesus as a threat to their traditions and doctrines. Many today are the same—they fear those who challenge their beliefs. When engaged in honest discussion, they quickly defend their doctrines. People will go to great lengths to protect their personal religious views.
Matthew 23 describes how the scribes and Pharisees sat in Moses’ seat and told the people what to do. Jesus warned to follow their words but not their actions. They placed heavy burdens on others but would not lift a finger to help.
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
“Saying, The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat: All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not. For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men’s shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers.” (Matthew 23:2-4)
Authority and Tradition
The first thing to understand is that when Jesus says the scribes and Pharisees “sit in Moses’ seat,” he means they hold a position of authority. They are responsible for teaching the Word of God. Every pastor today plays a similar role when teaching and leading their church. They have the duty to teach God’s Word faithfully.
Jesus tells us to obey what these leaders teach because they represent the authority of Moses. However, he also warns us not to follow their example or imitate their actions. The problem is that many religious leaders impose heavy burdens on the Word through tradition. These traditions can weigh people down and detract from the valid message of scripture.
Jesus emphasizes that we should do the Word of God, but reject the extra traditions that nullify it. The key lesson is to follow the teachings from Moses’ seat, but not the hypocritical behaviors or legalistic traditions of those who teach.
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
“Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye.” (Mark 7:13)
The Pharisees and religious leaders would teach the Scripture, but they did not practice what they taught. Instead, their traditions became a burden, turning the Word into bondage instead of freedom.
As an example, the Bible teaches us to dress modestly. Yet tradition sometimes sets extreme, specific expectations—requiring certain hairstyles or strict dress codes that go beyond Scripture. There is nothing wrong with dressing conservatively if it comes from genuine conviction, but it becomes legalism when rules are used to judge or restrict others.
Many restrictions that people feel about dress and appearance have been passed down through tradition, not the Bible. These added burdens can make people feel they never measure up or can never look right. Similarly, other doctrines like the teaching about being “caught up” or raptured are rooted in Scripture itself, as shown in 1 Thessalonians 4:17: “Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.” Tradition should never overshadow the clear teaching of God’s Word.
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
The False Promise of Escape and Biblical Teaching on Praise
But will there be a secret rapture? No. Is it an escape? No. Jesus didn’t create the church to escape; he created the church to defeat the gates of hell (Matthew 16:18).
What about praise? Is praise singing two hymns out of a hymnal? Is it? Could be, it’s good—but is that what the Bible teaches that praise is? Is that what the traditions of men have put down on us? I want you to see that—do what the Word says to do, but don’t do what the Pharisees say to do. Do what the Pharisees say to do, but don’t do what the Pharisees do. Does the Word say praise the Lord with a shout?
“O clap your hands, all ye people; shout unto God with the voice of triumph.” (Psalm 47:1)
Clap? Sing?
“Sing unto the LORD a new song, and his praise in the congregation of saints.” (Psalm 149:1)
Dance?
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
“Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp.” (Psalm 149:3)
Does the Pharisee today say to dance in church? That’s what I want you to see. Do what the Word says to do, but don’t do what they do.
Identifying the Pharisee Spirit and Outward Religion
Never let these kinds of religious leaders be your examples. Jesus warns in verses 5-7 that everything they do is to be seen by others. Their primary motivation is to gain attention and respect from people around them.
Many traditions, like strict dress codes, are passed down by religious leaders. Sometimes people follow these rules to appear holy to others. The Pharisee spirit wants to be noticed for being outwardly devout and righteous.
These leaders wore special garments and enjoyed high positions at gatherings and in the synagogue. They loved the greetings and wanted to be called by religious titles. Their actions were driven by a desire for human praise, not by a heart for God.
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
“But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments, And love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues, And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi.” (Matthew 23:5-7)
Modern Examples and Jesus’ Teaching on True Greatness
The Living Bible says that everything the Pharisees do is for show. The Today’s English Bible says they do everything just so people will see them, and the Jerusalem Bible says they do things to attract attention. They are so focused on appearing holy and devout before others that all they want is to be noticed.
Jesus gives a list to help identify Pharisees. The truth of God’s Word, changing lives, and moving with the Spirit are not vital to them. What matters most is being seen by men. For example, someone might boast, “Look at my church and how well it’s doing,” focusing on numbers and reputation rather than genuine spiritual growth.
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
One sign is that they make their phylacteries broader. Phylacteries are small boxes mentioned in Exodus 13:16, Deuteronomy 6:8, and Deuteronomy 11:18 that contain scripture verses. This was meant as a reminder of God’s law, but Pharisees would exaggerate these to display their supposed piety. This is a clear mark of the Pharisee spirit—doing things to be seen and praised by others rather than out of actual devotion.
The Pharisees used little leather boxes called phylacteries, which they tied to their foreheads and left wrists. These boxes held scripture verses to remind them of God’s law. Instead of simple obedience, they would make these boxes larger so everyone could see them. The goal was to appear more holy and devout.
Next, the Pharisee would enlarge the borders of his garment. This was another way to show off his religiosity. Everything he wore and did was to be noticed by others.
Pharisees also loved to sit in the prominent places at feasts and sought the best seats in the synagogue. They wanted everyone’s attention and thrived on public recognition and respect.
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
They loved being greeted in the marketplace and enjoyed being called by honored religious titles like “rabbi.” The real issue is that everything they did was centered around being exalted by men. They wanted to occupy positions of importance and be seen as spiritually superior.
Jesus teaches that all this is unimportant to God. Instead, he says not to seek these special titles or places. Only Christ is our true master. True greatness, according to Jesus, is shown by serving others and practicing humility. Those who exalt themselves will be brought low, but those who humble themselves will be lifted up.
“But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren. And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven. Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ. But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.” (Matthew 23:8-12)
What matters most to Jesus is not whether I carry my Bible into public places or whether I gain public recognition. True greatness in the kingdom of God is not about outward appearances or numbers. It is not about sitting in the front, exalting myself, or having large attendance.
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
Greatness in God’s kingdom comes only through serving others. If I do not serve others, I cannot be great. Service is the clear path to greatness that Jesus taught. He says if I choose to exalt myself, I will be brought low. But if I choose to serve and humble myself, God will lift me up.
The objective measure of greatness before God is how well I serve. Only those who become servants are truly great in His kingdom.
“But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.” (Matthew 23:11)
Carrying my Bible does not make me great in the kingdom of heaven, nor does the way I dress, sitting at the head table, sitting in front, or being called pastor—none of these mean anything. What does mean everything is my being a servant, and thus humbling myself to God. And I know who is great in the kingdom of God, by who humbles himself and by who is a servant.
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
In the passages of scripture, you find that humbling and servanthood go together – Matthew 20:25-27, Matthew 5:5, Matthew 18:1-4, Luke 22:27, John 13:1-5, Philippians 2:5-7, 1 Peter 5:5-6, James 4:5-10. You gotta be a servant, not a Pharisee. The Lord doesn’t like Pharisees—he loves servants.
Seven Woes – The Condemnation of Hypocrisy
The seven woes of the scribes and the Pharisees, and I’m just going to give you these real quickly, and then I’m going to get on over to what I want to emphasize. The seven woes of the scribes and the Pharisees are verses 13 through 36.
“But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in.” (Matthew 23:13)
This was the last time Christ spoke publicly to the people. He did not use the moment to warn them about sin, the devil, or the desires of the flesh. Instead, he focused on warning about religious enemies—the so-called righteous who oppose the truth.
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
Jesus was deeply concerned because religious enemies corrupt people. They enter lives and make them even more lost. Their influence can lead people further from God, turning them into even greater sons of hell than before.
“Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye compass sea and land to make one proselyte, and when he is made, ye make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves.” (Matthew 23:15)
False Doctrine and Its Impact
False religious doctrine can poison a person’s soul. When religious leaders get inside someone’s life, they may teach dogmas that double spiritual bondage. Their teachings can deny the power of God and say the gifts of the Spirit ended with the apostles. They tell people God does not act today and that evil really rules.
This kind of religion leads people to feel powerless and hopeless. It turns hearts away from faith and makes them think God is not in control. In reality, the kingdom of God is defined by righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17).
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
“The earth is the LORD’S, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.” (Psalm 24:1)
You need to know that God owns the earth and everything in it. God is always in control, not Beelzebub. Power comes from God, not from any force of evil. God is sovereign and rules over all creation.
Summary of the Woes and Spiritual Application
Jesus went on to denounce religious leaders for their harmful actions. Many people have suffered under legalistic leadership. Such leaders put their followers in bondage and drain them spiritually. If you were under such a system, you may have felt you could receive nothing from God. The heavy rules and false doctrines poison spiritual life. Looking back, you recognize how much that bondage hindered you—and you thank God for freedom from it.
This is a very, very stern review. The term hypocrites is used six times. Speaking to the religious leader, he says You fools ” twice.
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
“Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gift, or the altar that sanctifieth the gift?” (Matthew 23:19)
He says you serpents and you generation of vipers in verse 33.
“Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell?” (Matthew 23:33)
Jesus’ Righteous Anger and the Accountability of Leaders
Yes, Jesus was angry because of how the religious leaders treated his people. He was deeply upset by the way they placed heavy burdens on people and led them away from God. If Jesus came today, would he find us faithful and say, “Well done, good and faithful servant”? That is a serious question. Would he see faithfulness, or would he see the same problems that made him angry long ago?
“His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.” (Matthew 25:21)
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
Jesus strongly rebuked the religious leaders for their hypocrisy and the harm they caused. He called them hypocrites, fools, vipers, and serpents. He warned they would face the damnation of hell because of their actions.
Judgment and Consequences – Blood of the Prophets
Jesus asked us to reflect: What would He do if He came today? Would He commend us or confront us for the same poison these leaders spread? He said these leaders work hard to convert others, but then make those new converts “twice the child of hell,” they are themselves. Sometimes, people were better off before they met such false teachers.
This is a severe warning to examine whether our faith and leadership draw people closer to God or push them away through heavy burdens and hypocrisy. Jesus desires sincerity and truth, not empty appearances or damaging traditions.
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
“Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye compass sea and land to make one proselyte, and when he is made, ye make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves.” (Matthew 23:15)
In the first woe, Jesus rebukes the scribes and the Pharisees because they pretend to open doors to the kingdom of heaven, but they actually shut the door to the kingdom of heaven to men.
“But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in.” (Matthew 23:13)
Religious leaders often make big promises about leading people to Jesus. They promise blessings and acceptance, but their actions can actually keep people out of God’s kingdom. Jesus said, “You hypocrites, for you shut up the kingdom of heaven against men, for you neither go in yourselves, nor suffer ye them that are entering to go in.”
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
The Pharisees believed they were the sons of Abraham, and sure, they were going to heaven. But Jesus made it clear—they were not entering the kingdom themselves, and they prevented others from entering too. Their hypocrisy blocked the way for those who truly wanted to find God. This is a strong warning that spiritual leaders must not allow their attitudes or traditions to hinder others from coming to God.
“But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in.” (Matthew 23:13)
Those who want to go in, you won’t let them. Those that want the baptism of the Holy Spirit—no, no, oh no. Those that want to understand the—oh no, you can’t have the kingdom of God, that’s when Jesus comes again, you can’t have all these things. They won’t tell you that the kingdom of heaven is now. It is the reign of God through Christ—it is righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.
“For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.” (Romans 14:17)
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
True Kingdom Life Versus Legalistic Burdens
To truly help people enter the kingdom of heaven, I must teach that God reigns above all. Beelzebub, humanism, or our own families are not in charge—God alone is in control. When people believe this truth, they can break free from the lie that the devil runs everything or that life is hopeless.
Instead, they discover true righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. This is the real kingdom of God, not a kingdom of rules and fear.
The Harm of False Conversion and Legalism
The problem with the scribes and Pharisees was that, though they claimed to lead people to God, their traditions and teachings shut the door in people’s faces. They loaded people down with burdens and made them believe defeat was inevitable, while promising escape as the only hope.
But that is not the truth. God reigns and offers life and spiritual gifts to those who trust Him. Our goal is to help people find freedom by turning to God and living in His presence, not to bind them with traditions that keep them out.
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
The second woe Jesus pronounced shows just how damaging the scribes and Pharisees were. They traveled everywhere to win converts, but once someone followed them, he was worse off than before. Jesus said these leaders made new followers “twofold more a child of hell” than themselves. Instead of leading people into the fullness of Christ, their influence doubled the spiritual harm. This is a powerful warning about the destructive power of religious hypocrisy and false teaching.
“Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye compass sea and land to make one proselyte, and when he is made, ye make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves.” (Matthew 23:15)
The Jews put a lot of effort into converting, or proselytizing. They tried to convert Gentiles by baptizing them, accepting their sacrifices, letting them give money, and having the men circumcised. They even gave converts new Jewish names. But their real goal was not just to make someone Jewish. The Pharisees wanted these converts to become full-fledged legalists, focused on rituals, rules, and rigid traditions.
Hendrickson explains that the Pharisees didn’t just want to save people. They tried to make converts into zealous followers of their rules—a salvation based on works and legalism. Jesus said the result was even worse for the convert: “when he is made, you make him twice the child of hell as yourselves.”
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
Doctrine Over Word – Authentic Leadership
The heart of the problem was doctrine, not the Word. Jesus said to do what the Word says, but not to imitate these leaders’ actions. Don’t let their burdens and rules weigh you down. Get free from traditions that make you spiritually stuck. Jesus emphasized that spiritual life should bring freedom, not turn people into followers of empty practices.
What matters is not how many converts are made, but what happens afterward. Are people truly entering the kingdom, living in freedom, or are they just being made into followers of human rules? A Pharisee is anyone whose goal is to make others exactly like themselves, dependent on strict traditions, rather than helping them grow into God’s truth and freedom. Authentic spiritual leadership points people to liberty and life, not to religious bondage.
The Third and Fourth Woes – Oaths and Tithes
The third woe shows that the scribes and Pharisees played games with their oaths and promises. They invented rules about which oaths had to be kept and which could be broken. This allowed them to make promises and then avoid keeping them by claiming their oath was not binding. Jesus called this plain dishonesty.
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
In truth, every vow we make should be honored. All our words are important to God. God expects us to keep our promises, and His own faithfulness is our example. Jesus’ message is clear: don’t play games with your words; keep your commitments.
The fourth woe denounced the Pharisees and scribes for obsessively paying tithes on small things but neglecting justice, mercy, and faithfulness. They counted every herb and seed to give a tenth, but missed the big picture of loving others and doing what is right. Religion became an outward performance without a changed heart. Jesus said true faith means practicing justice, mercy, and faithfulness—these are the things that matter to God.
The Weightier Matters – Justice, Mercy, and Faith
“Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone. Ye blind guides, which strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel.” (Matthew 23:23-24)
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
Jesus is clear in Matthew 23:23 that tithing is good. The Pharisees actually did that part right. But he also says tithing alone is not enough. God requires justice, mercy, and faithfulness. It is possible to pay tithe and still live in sin, be unjust, hard-hearted, and unfaithful to God, family, and church. That is precisely what these leaders were doing. They were exact with money, but completely careless with people. They focused on tiny details and ignored the significant issues of the heart. Jesus calls that straining out gnats while swallowing camels.
The fiThe Fifth, Sixth, and Seventh Woes – The Condition of the Heartfth woe exposes their greed and lack of self-control. They looked clean on the outside, but inside, they were full of extortion and excess. They took money and property violently and showed no restraint. Jesus compares them to a cup washed only on the outside while the inside is filthy. That picture still fits much of what we see today.
The sixth woe is about appearances. Jesus calls them whitewashed tombs—beautiful on the outside, but full of dead bones and uncleanness on the inside. They looked holy and respectable, but their hearts were full of hypocrisy and lawlessness. God hates lawlessness and wants a people and a church in His order, not just looking religious.
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
The seventh woe targets their speech and self-righteous attitude. They claimed that if they had lived in the days of the prophets, they would have acted better than their fathers. Jesus says they are fooling themselves. He tells them they would have done the same, and even worse. In fact, he says they are worse than the ones they condemn.
“If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets.” Wherefore ye be witnesses unto yourselves, that ye are the children of them which killed the prophets. Fill ye up then the measure of your fathers. Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell?” (Matthew 23:30-33)
This is a strong warning for all of us. Even faithful religious practice does not guarantee salvation. The Pharisees trusted in their religion, their heritage, and their routines, but they missed a real relationship with Jesus. It is possible to look holy on the outside while still being lost inside.
Jesus taught that religious traditions can deceive people. We might think we are close to God, but we could actually be living by habit rather than by faith. It’s easy to settle for appearances and forget about the condition of our hearts.
We must examine ourselves honestly. Is there something in us like the Pharisee spirit—pride, legalism, or hypocrisy? What matters most is being changed inside, not just looking good outside. Let God cleanse your heart so that your life matches what you say and show. True faith begins with a clean heart, not just religious actions.
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
Now, verse 34-35:
“Wherefore, behold, I send unto you prophets, and wise men, and scribes: and some of them ye shall kill and crucify; and some of them shall ye scourge in your synagogues, and persecute them from city to city: That upon you may come all the righteous blood shed upon the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel unto the blood of Zacharias son of Barachias, whom ye slew between the temple and the altar.” (Matthew 23:34-35)
The Judgment on That Generation
Jesus called the Pharisees serpents and vipers and said they would not escape hell. Even after saying that, he told them he would send prophets, wise men, and scribes. Some of these would be killed or persecuted by the Pharisees.
Jesus explained that all the righteous blood shed through history—from Abel to Zechariah—would come on them. The reason he sent more prophets was so that the guilt of all this innocent blood would fall on that generation. Each translation says the same: Jesus sent true teachers, but when they were rejected and killed, responsibility for the deaths of all godly people would rest on those refusing the truth.
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
In summary, Jesus warned that the cumulative consequences of centuries of killing God’s messengers would come on those who continued the same pattern. The judgment for all innocent blood would fall on the generation that rejected Christ and his messengers.
In every translation, Jesus made it clear that the guilt for all innocent blood would fall on “you,” meaning that generation of Pharisees. The Jerusalem Bible says they would draw down on themselves the blood of every holy man ever killed. The New English Bible says the guilt of all innocent blood would fall on them.
This group of people—those religious leaders in Jesus’ day—would be judged for all the blood of the prophets from Abel onward. Genesis 4:10 says that when Cain killed Abel, Abel’s blood cried out to God from the ground. That cry for justice would finally be answered in judgment against the generation that rejected Jesus and the prophets God sent.
“And he said, What hast thou done? the voice of thy brother’s blood crieth unto me from the ground.” (Genesis 4:10)
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
“I want vengeance!” Jesus declared that all the righteous blood ever shed—from righteous Abel onward—would be avenged. Jerusalem was going to be judged for it. The Pharisees would also face judgment because they had poisoned the people and killed the prophets. Jesus even said He would send more prophets, and they would kill them too.
That generation, the very people Jesus was speaking to, would bear the judgment for all the righteous blood that had been shed. God would avenge the blood of the prophets and the saints upon that generation.
Now this is important. You do not need to worry about the great tribulation. It already happened in AD 70 when Jerusalem was judged for all that blood. Praise God! Are you understanding this clearly? I’m trying my best to help this truth take root in us. Look at verse 36.
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
The Generation That Would See Judgment
“Verily I say unto you, All these things shall come upon this generation.” (Matthew 23:36)
This is important because it shapes how we understand the end times. Many traditions have taught believers to expect a future great tribulation, and this teaching can weigh people down. It can stop you from experiencing God’s goodness now, as you might be waiting for judgment or a catastrophe that is actually already finished.
Instead, Christians today are living in the goodness of God and within the kingdom of God. The Church is rising up with power, set to push back against evil and make way for Christ’s return as Lord and King—not just in heaven, but here on earth, as Revelation 5:10 teaches. This is the hope and confidence that believers have for the present and the future.
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
Revelation and the Fulfillment of Judgment
The book of Revelation, especially chapter 6, was not written to frighten people about a future tribulation. It reveals a tribulation that has already occurred, explaining why and to whom it happened. According to the teaching, all the blood of the righteous that Jesus mentioned would fall on the generation He was addressing. That event, the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70, fulfilled the prophecy and brought to an end the judgment Jesus spoke about. This message offers assurance and clarity: believers are not waiting for wrath or destruction, but are called to walk in God’s victory and promise now.
“And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held. They cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth? White robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellowservants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled.” (Revelation 6:9-11)
Also see Revelation 6:12-17
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
The city to be judged for the blood is Jerusalem, and the generation is the one Jesus was speaking to. If you understand that, you are following the path of this teaching. The Old Testament used the image of sacrifice, where the blood of the victim would collect around the altar.
Just like in these sacrifices, the souls of those who had been wronged cry out for justice. They ask God, “How long before you avenge our blood?” This connects to Genesis 4:10, where Abel’s blood cried out from the earth after he was killed. In Scripture, the shedding of blood is not just symbolic. It shows the seriousness of sin and the crying out for justice.
“And he said, What hast thou done? the voice of thy brother’s blood crieth unto me from the ground.” (Genesis 4:10)
Babylon, Jerusalem, and Symbolism in Revelation
Revelation chapters 17 and 18 talk about Babylon. This Babylon is not a future city ruled by the Antichrist. Instead, Babylon was destroyed in AD 70. In these passages, Babylon refers to Jerusalem.
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
The text shows that Jerusalem fits the description of Babylon given in the first verses of these chapters. For example, Jerusalem is portrayed as richly adorned but guilty of the blood of prophets and saints. Revelation uses symbolic language from the Old Testament and from Israel’s own history to identify Jerusalem as the city judged for its unfaithfulness.
You can read more details by looking at verses 5 and 6 yourself. But the main point is that the Babylon destroyed in Revelation was Jerusalem, and this took place in the first century, not in the future.
“And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH. And I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus: and when I saw her, I wondered with great admiration.” (Revelation 17:5-6)
And the woman is a city—look at verse 18:
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
“And the woman which thou sawest is that great city, which reigneth over the kings of the earth.” (Revelation 17:18)
Look at chapter 18 verse 24—Babylon in chapter 18 is destroyed. Verse 24 says,
“And in her was found the blood of prophets, and of saints, and of all that were slain upon the earth.” (Revelation 18:24)
Interpreting Babylon as Jerusalem
Let me make sure I’m clear. If we can truly understand this, it will change everything. I’ve never seen the passage in Matthew this way before. I’ve studied Revelation and always wondered how it connects. I struggled to teach on it. It felt like I was hitting a wall and couldn’t break through.
But when we see that Jerusalem is judged for all the prophets’ blood—when we grasp that Babylon is Jerusalem and its destruction was final and unique—then the fear of a great tribulation leaves us. We can stop wanting to escape. Instead, we’ll be encouraged to overcome and move forward in God’s work. We’ll attack the gates of hell, knowing nothing can stop us.
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
Jerusalem alone was guilty for all the righteous blood shed from Abel onward. If you want proof, look at Revelation 11:8. Which city was Jesus crucified in? Jerusalem. The scripture uses symbols, sometimes calling Jerusalem “Egypt” or “Sodom,” but it always points back to the city where Jesus died.
We must stop carrying heavy burdens handed down by tradition—teaching that keeps us afraid and distracted. Jesus said to listen to what they teach, but not to do what they do. Don’t let fear and traditions about the great tribulation take hold. Let’s be free from all that and focus on our mission.
“And their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great city, which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified.” (Revelation 11:8)
If you have understood what I have shared, it can bring absolute freedom. For years, I read these passages and struggled to connect Matthew and Revelation. It seemed like I was teaching but not breaking through.
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
If you grasp that Jerusalem is the city judged for all the blood of the prophets, and that Babylon in Revelation is really Jerusalem, you’ll see that the destruction already happened. This changes everything. We do not have to be afraid of the coming great tribulation. The fear can lift off us.
Instead, we can focus on overcoming and moving forward in God’s purpose. We don’t need to escape. We are meant to rise up and do what God has called us to do. The gates of hell cannot stop us.
Jerusalem alone was guilty for all the righteous blood from Abel onward. The Bible uses symbolic names for Jerusalem, but it always points to the city where Jesus was crucified. Don’t let old traditions and teachings keep you trapped in fear. Jesus said to listen to the teaching but not to follow their ways. Let’s leave fear behind and pursue our mission with boldness.
And we’re going to be in Matthew 24 next week, but he’s talking here in chapter 23, and they walk out of the temple in 24:1, and the disciples look at that thing, and they say, “Man, that thing is great—look at it.” It was great white limestone rocks and gold, gorgeous, huge, and beautiful. And they say, “Look at that thing,” and Jesus says,
“See ye not all these things? verily I say unto you, There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down.” (Matthew 24:2)
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
They say, “When is this going to happen?” And all of 24 is talking about when that’s going to happen.
Now tying up what we’ve looked at, verse 21:
“For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.” (Matthew 24:21)
Jesus said that everything He warned about would come upon that generation. He clearly spoke of a tribulation so great that nothing like it had ever happened before, nor would ever happen again. This tribulation took place when Babylon—meaning Jerusalem—fell in AD 70. There will never be a repeat of that level of judgment.
If you see what I’m sharing, it will set you free. You do not have to fear a future great tribulation. That time of judgment has already happened. Yes, we will still go through hard times, and we can take practical lessons from these scriptures for today. But the specific tribulation Jesus spoke of, which many have feared for generations, is already past. Jerusalem has already been judged.
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
For a long time, each generation has waited, thinking this destruction could come on them. The idea of escaping all the chaos and destruction has appealed to many. Who would want to be present for disasters, plagues, and wars? It is an understandable feeling.
But if we understand that this is already fulfilled, that fear disappears. The church doesn’t need to run away; instead, we can be strong and victorious. We are not waiting to escape but are called to be triumphant, just as Jesus has told us again and again.
“To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.” (Revelation 3:21)
Jerusalem’s Rejection and Jesus’ Lament
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
The man over Jerusalem—verses 37-39. He says,
“O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not! Behold, your house is left unto you desolate. For I say unto you, Ye shall not see me henceforth, till ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.” (Matthew 23:37-39)
Jesus was speaking directly to Jerusalem, the capital of Israel. When He addressed Jerusalem, He was also talking to the whole nation, because the people’s attitude was reflected in their capital. It is like how Washington, D.C., represents the mindset and condition of the United States.
He said He wanted to gather Jerusalem under His protection, just as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings. Jesus was calling out to them, warning them of coming danger, but they refused to come to Him. He desired to protect and make a covenant with them, but they rejected it.
I grew up on a farm with many chickens. When danger came, the mother hen would cluck to call her chicks, and they would run to her for safety. This picture shows what Jesus wanted to do for Jerusalem, but they would not listen.
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
Because Jerusalem and the nation of Israel rejected Christ, refused His protection, and ignored His prophets, their house was left desolate. This means their temple, their religious system, and the nation itself would be left empty and wasted. That is why Jerusalem was destroyed.
“For I say unto you, Ye shall not see me henceforth, till ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.” (Matthew 23:39)
After Passion Week, the people never saw Jesus again, and He never spoke to them in public again. The next time they would hear from Him would be in judgment.
Revelation’s Fulfillment and Application for Today
Let’s finish with Revelation chapter 1. I believe something new has been planted in people’s hearts. I was praying for this, that we could see the truth and let go of old traditions that have weighed us down. We don’t have to worry so much about end-times theories. Instead, we can focus on our true purpose here and now.
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
John writes in Revelation 1:7, reminding us to set our minds on what God is actually doing. If we embrace this, we can move forward with freedom and confidence.
“Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.” (Revelation 1:7)
Now understand this. Who is going to see him? It is those who pierced him. That generation was the one who pierced Jesus. My generation did not pierce him. My son’s generation did not pierce him. Our grandchildren’s generation did not pierce him.
It was that generation. He came in judgment in AD 70, and they saw him. All the families of the earth mourned because of him.
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
The Urgency of Heeding Jesus’ Words
I want you to know—in the Revelation, Babylon is Jerusalem. Babylon is the city. Jerusalem was encompassed in 70 AD; Jesus had told them, he says, “When you see are encompassed about…” he says
“But when ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies, then know that the desolation thereof is nigh. Then let them which are in Judaea flee to the mountains; and let them which are in the midst of it depart out; and let not them that are in the countries enter thereinto. For these be the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled. But woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck, in those days! for there shall be great distress in the land, and wrath upon this people. And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled.” (Luke 21:20-24)
He says, “I promise you if you’ll heed my words, not a hair on your head will be harmed.”
“But there shall not an hair of your head perish. In your patience possess ye your souls.” (Luke 21:18-19)
Jerusalem, Jerusalem, he says, “I would have drawn you in Luke and covered you, but you missed the day of your visitation.”
Matthew 23: How to Recognize Modern-Day Pharisee Attitudes
“And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it, Saying, If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes. For the days shall come upon thee, that thine enemies shall cast a trench about thee, and compass thee round, and keep thee in on every side, And shall lay thee even with the ground, and thy children within thee; and they shall not leave in thee one stone upon another; because thou knewest not the time of thy visitation.” (Luke 19:41-44)
Father, quicken this to us; take away the fears of…
Matthew 23
Matthew 23
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