Then came to Jesus scribes and Pharisees, which were of Jerusalem, saying,

MATTHEW 15:1KJV
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Matthew 15:1 (KJV)

What does Matthew 15:1 mean?

Matthew 15:1 describes a moment when a group of scribes and Pharisees from Jerusalem come to Jesus and begin to speak with Him. This sets up an encounter between Jesus and some of the leading religious authorities of His time.

The verse introduces a specific group—scribes (experts in Jewish law) and Pharisees (a religious party known for strict observance of traditions)—who have traveled from Jerusalem, the religious center, to meet Jesus. This signals that what follows is a significant confrontation, as these leaders represent the highest religious authority and are coming with questions or challenges for Jesus.

The Greek behind Matthew 15:1

  • "προσήλθον" (prosēlthon, "came"): This Greek word often means to approach with intention, not just to arrive. Here, it suggests the scribes and Pharisees are coming to Jesus with a purpose, likely to challenge or question Him.
  • "γραμματεῖς" (grammateis, "scribes"): These were not just any teachers but recognized legal experts, which highlights the seriousness of the delegation.
  • "Φαρισαῖοι" (Pharisaioi, "Pharisees"): This term refers to a prominent Jewish group known for their focus on ritual purity and tradition, which will be important in the coming discussion.
  • "ἀπὸ Ἱεροσολύμων" (apo Hierosolymōn, "from Jerusalem"): The mention of Jerusalem emphasizes that these are not local leaders but representatives from the central religious authority, adding weight to the encounter.

Why Matthew 15:1 matters

  • Matthew 15:1 shows that Jesus is being noticed and confronted by the highest religious authorities, not just local leaders, which raises the stakes of the conversation.
  • The verse sets the stage for a discussion about tradition and authority, themes that will be important in the verses that follow.
  • By noting the origin of the scribes and Pharisees as Jerusalem, Matthew highlights the growing tension between Jesus and the established religious leadership.

Where else these words appear

“Jerusalem” Greek G2414 · used in 59 verses

  • Matthew 2:1 Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem,
  • Luke 2:22 And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord;
  • Acts 8:14 Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John:

“scribes” Greek G1122 · used in 67 verses

  • Matthew 2:4 And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born.
  • Matthew 27:41 Likewise also the chief priests mocking him, with the scribes and elders, said,
  • Mark 15:31 Likewise also the chief priests mocking said among themselves with the scribes, He saved others; himself he cannot save.

“came” Greek G4334 · used in 85 verses

  • Matthew 4:3 And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread.
  • Matthew 21:23 And when he was come into the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came unto him as he was teaching, and said, By what authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee this authority?
  • Luke 9:12 And when the day began to wear away, then came the twelve, and said unto him, Send the multitude away, that they may go into the towns and country round about, and lodge, and get victuals: for we are here in a desert place.

“Pharisees” Greek G5330 · used in 95 verses

  • Matthew 3:7 But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?
  • Mark 2:24 And the Pharisees said unto him, Behold, why do they on the sabbath day that which is not lawful?
  • Luke 16:14 And the Pharisees also, who were covetous, heard all these things: and they derided him.