Gospel of Matthew: Teachings of Jesus and the Pharisees

Religious commentaries explore key passages from the Gospel of Matthew regarding the teachings of Jesus and his interactions with the Pharisees.

One reflection focuses on the encounter where Pharisees attempt to trap Jesus with a question about paying taxes to Caesar. Jesus responds by instructing followers to ‘render to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s,’ a statement intended to defuse the political and religious trap set by his interlocutors.

Another discussion examines the ‘Great Commandment’ after Jesus silences the Sadducees. When questioned by a Pharisee about which commandment in the Law is the greatest, Jesus identifies two primary orders: loving God with all one's heart, soul, and mind, and loving one's neighbor as oneself. The text notes that all the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commands.