The impression produced on the multitudes. With the exception of the formula, "It came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings" (cf. Matthew 11:1 , note), the words are almost identical with Mark 1:22 ( Luke 4:31 , Luke 4:32 ), but the time is, as it seems, later. The oral statement of an impression which was probably often produced is affirmed of slightly different times. read more
For he taught them . Such was his constant habit ( ἦν ... διδάσκων ). As one having authority, and not as the scribes . Who, indeed, never claimed personal authority. Jewish teachers lean on the fact of their having received that which they expound. They professed]y sink their own personality in that of those of old time, to whom the teaching was first given ( Matthew 5:21 ). To this our Lord's personal claims stand in sharp contrast. The scribes ; Revised Version, their... read more
The distinguishing feature of Christ's teaching. "As a rule, the scribe hardly ever gave his exposition without at least beginning by what had been said by Hillel or Shammai, by Rabbi Joseph or Rabbi Meir, depending almost or altogether upon what had thus been ruled before, as much as an English lawyer depends upon his precedents." Geikie mentions one of the rabbis who "boasted that every verse of the Bible was capable of six hundred thousand different interpretations." But on such... read more
His doctrine - His teaching.As one having authority, and not as the scribes - The scribes were the learned people and teachers of the Jewish nation, and were principally Pharisees. They taught chiefly the sentiments of their Rabbis, and the traditions which had been delivered; they consumed much of their time in useless disputes and “vain jangling.” Jesus was open, plain, grave, useful, delivering truth as “became” the oracles of God; not spending his time in trifling disputes and debating... read more
Matthew 7:28-29. And the people were astonished at his doctrine Struck with wonder, having never heard such doctrine before, nor any doctrine on religious subjects, delivered with such solemnity and sweetness, or with such force and energy. Christ’s words, it appears, made a wonderful impression on their minds. For he taught them as one having authority With a dignity and majesty peculiar to himself, as the great lawgiver, and with the demonstration and power of the Spirit; and not as... read more
45. The two ways (Matthew 7:13-29; Luke 6:43-49)There are two ways of life. One is the easy way of pleasing self, which most choose and which leads to destruction. The other is the narrow way of denying self for Jesus’ sake, which leads to life (Matthew 7:13-14).One reason why many do not follow the narrow way is that they are deceived by those who teach their own views on how people can find meaning in life. Their teaching at first sounds reasonable, but in the end it proves to be destructive.... read more
ended. This marks the end of the first period and subject of the Lord's ministry. See the Structure, p. 1315, and App-119 . people = multitudes. doctrines = teaching. read more
taught = was continually teaching. having authority: i.e. possessing Divine authority. Greek. exousia. App-172 . In the current Hebrew literature of that time it denoted the Hebrew mippi hagg burah = from the mouth of God. See notes on Matthew 26:64 .Mark 14:62 , and Hebrews 1:3 . and not. Note the Figure of speech Pleonasm ( App-6 ). Jewish teachers always referred to tradition, or to what some other teacher had said; and do so to this day. read more
And it came to pass when Jesus had finished these words, the multitudes were astonished at his teaching: for he taught them as one having authority, and not as their scribes.The significance of this great sermon was not lost upon those who first heard it. They understood, although probably not all of them believed, that Jesus in this magnificent discourse laid claim to authority surpassing that of: (1) the scribes, (2) the Decalogue, (3) Moses, (4) the Holy Scriptures, and (5) all earthly and... read more
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The Pulpit Commentary - Matthew 7:28
Sayings; Revised Version, words ( Matthew 7:24 , note). The people; Revised Version, the multitudes ( οἱὄχλοι ) . In contrust to the scribes and ruling classes. Were astonished (cf. Acts 13:12 ). At his doctrine; at his teaching (Revised Version). read more