Matthew 23:29

"Even so you also outwardly appear righteous to men, but inwardly you are full of hypocrisy and iniquity."

Key Reflection

This verse highlights the contrast between superficial piety and inner corruption. Jesus warns the Pharisees that while they may seem righteous on the outside to others, their hearts are filled with hypocrisy and sin, emphasizing the importance of genuine righteousness rather than just external appearances.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 29. Ye build the tombs of the prophets. That is, ye build sepulchres or tombs over the prophets that have been slain. This they did professedly from veneration, and respect for their character. This is often done in the East at the present day, and indeed elsewhere. Among the Mohammedans it is a common way of showing respect for any distinguished man to build a tomb for him. By doing this they profess respect for his character, and veneration for his memory. So the Pharisees, by building tombs in this manner, professedly approved of the character and conduct of the prophets, and disapproved of the conduct of their fathers in killing them. And garnish, etc. That is, adorn or ornament.

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