Matthew 15:4 - Exposition

Christ proceeds to give an instance of the evacuation of the Law by means of tradition. God commanded. Mark, in the parallel passage, has, "Moses said," which may be taken, in conjunction with our text, as conveying our Lord's testimony to the Divine origin of the Mosaic code. Christ cites the fifth commandment, because it more especially appealed to the conscience of every one, and was emphasized by the solemn enactment of death as the penalty of its infringement ( Exodus 20:12 ; Exodus 21:17 ). Honour ( τίμα ). This term includes the idea of succor and support, as in 1 Timothy 5:3 , "Honour widows that are widows indeed;" and in 1 Timothy 5:17 , where τιμὴ means "stipend." In Ecclesiasticus 38:1, "Honour a physician with the honours due unto him," the expression has reference to his proper fees, the honorarium paid for his services. In God's view honour to parents is not shown only in outward salutations, obedience, and respect, but also in material assistance, help provided for their needs, alms freely bestowed when necessary. This well known signification makes the tradition next given more inexcusable. Die the death. An Hebraism, equivalent to "shall surely be put to death". If words against parents are thus punished, shall not deeds be visited?