Matthew 15:7 (KJV)

What does Matthew 15:7 mean?

Matthew 15:7 records Jesus calling certain people "hypocrites" and saying that the prophet Isaiah (Esaias) spoke well about them. Jesus is pointing out that their outward religious behavior does not match what is truly in their hearts, as Isaiah had warned about long before.

In this verse, Jesus is speaking directly to the Pharisees and scribes who had challenged Him about His disciples not following certain traditions. By quoting Isaiah, Jesus highlights that these religious leaders are acting in a way that looks good on the outside but is empty or false inside. The verse sets up a strong contrast between genuine faith and mere appearance, showing Jesus' concern for sincerity over tradition.

The Greek behind Matthew 15:7

• ὑποκριταί (hypokritai, "hypocrites"): This word originally referred to actors on a stage, but by Jesus' time, it was often used for people who pretend to be something they are not. Here, it underscores the charge of spiritual insincerity.
• καλῶς (kalōs, "well"): This word means "rightly" or "accurately." Jesus is affirming that Isaiah's words fit the situation perfectly.
• προεφήτευσεν (proephēteusen, "prophesy"): This verb means to speak forth or declare under divine inspiration. Jesus is saying Isaiah’s words were not just about the past but are relevant to the present situation.

Why Matthew 15:7 matters

• Matthew 15:7 clarifies that Jesus is not just criticizing minor mistakes but is addressing a deep problem of pretending to honor God while actually missing the point.
• The verse connects Jesus’ teaching to the Old Testament, showing that the issue of empty religion is not new but has been a problem for generations.
• By using the word "hypocrites," Jesus draws attention to the danger of focusing on outward appearances rather than genuine devotion, a theme that runs throughout His ministry.