The man of St Matthew

THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW

TRADITIONS OF THE ELDERS: Mt 15,1-20

We have seen that this passage has a clear beginning and ending in verses 1 and 20. We can note as well how the initial question in verse 2 receives its answer in verse 20.
We have also noted that the passage is divided into two by the change of audience when Jesus summons the crowd in verse 10 which is followed by the disciples approaching him in verse 12.

Pharisees and Scribes: 15,1-9

The Pharisees were those who sought to apply the Torah to new circumstances through their traditions. These were later codified in a work known as the Misnah. The Sadducees as we will see (16,1) did not accept these additions to Torah.

Matthew has here adapted Mark (Mk 7,1-13) to the needs of his community. Take note of what he has cut out from Mark and consider why this might have been unnecessary.

What might be the significance of Jerusalem in verse 1?

In verse 2, the Pharisees ask a question, based perhaps on Ex 30,17-21. "Trangress" in this and the following verse is an alteration of Mark by Matthew.

Does Jesus reply (see verse 20) in verse 3? Where does his use of "transgress" take the conversation?

What are Jesus' priorities, contrasting verse 4 and verse 5?

For verse 4, see Exodus 20,12 as well as Proverbs 28,24 and 1st Timothy 5,4. Especially important is Ex 21,17.

Matthew has in verse 5 simplified Mark 7,11. The point is made clear in verse 6.

"Hypocrites" is a favourite term of Matthew, especially for the Pharisees, see chapter 23. Chapter 6 (6,2.5.16) makes the point clearly, especially in view of 15,11.

For the quotation in verses 8 & 9, see Is 29,13. Consider how Matthew has moved the quotation from its position in Mark.

Now look at my response.

The Crowd and the Disciples: 15,10-20

As I suggested earlier, discussion about the controversy continues but no longer as a direct confrontation with the Pharisees. We have seen in chapter 13 how Jesus makes general statements to the crowd and then gives a more specific response to the disciples.

In verse 10 then, Jesus addresses the crowd: see and understand (Is 6,10, see 13,14). What is the implication in the present context?

Verse 11 makes a general statement in the wisdom tradition which reflects on the Isaiah quotation in verses 8 & 9. Look back to verse 6.

Verses 12 to 13 are special to Matthew, an addition to Mark so as to introduce the disciples with their comments about the Pharisees. See Is 60,21. The pit is a common image in the Old Testament, Psalm 7,15 would be appropriate here. Also Proverbs 26,27 or Is 24,18.

In verse 15, we can note the increasing prominence in this Gospel of Peter acting as the spokesman for the disciples, see 14,28 or 16,16. Contrast Mk 7,17.

It is important to note with verse 17 what Matthew has omitted from Mark (Mk 7,19).

Lists of vices are common in the NT. Note how Matthew has trimmed Mark's list (Mk 7,21-22).

With verse 20, the whole controversy turns full circle. Note how Matthew has altered Mark's ending (Mk 7,23).

Back again to my response.

It is now time to meet the Canaanite woman, 15,21-28.