Matthew 22:16
And they sent their disciples to him, along with the Herodians, saying, “Teacher, we know that you are true and teach the way of God truthfully, and you do not care about anyone’s opinion, for you are not swayed by appearances.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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These religious leaders try to flatter Jesus by saying he teaches truth and doesn't care about appearances. This isn't just a compliment; it's a deliberate tactic to make him feel safe to give an answer that will trap him, playing on his known impartiality. Their intention is to use his integrity against him, revealing the depth of their malicious plot.
Having just confounded the chief priests and elders with a parable, the Pharisees now plot with the Herodians, a political faction that supported Roman rule, to trap Jesus. They approach him with an outwardly respectful but deceitful compliment, praising his truthfulness and impartiality, in order to entice him into making a statement that could be used against him by either the Romans or the Jewish people.
They start by buttering Jesus up, calling Him truthful and bold. But why the sudden flattery? Something's up.
Jesus’ opponents, the Pharisees and Herodians, don't start their attack with an accusation. Instead, they begin with seemingly sincere praise for Jesus’ character.
A Masterclass in Deception
This is a prime example of how insincere words can mask malicious intent. Their words are true about Jesus, but their hearts are far from it. They use truth against Him.
The Pharisees and Herodians usually despised each other, but they team up against Jesus. What brings such enemies together?
Here we see a fascinating, yet disturbing, alliance. The Pharisees, deeply committed to Jewish law and tradition, often clashed with the Herodians, a political party generally aligned with Roman rule and the Herodian dynasty.
Enemies Unite
Understand the original words
didaskalos · Greek Noun
One who instructs, specifically regarding the Law of God and its interpretation; often used as a respectful title for Jesus, recognizing his authority as a source of divine truth.
alethēs · Greek Adjective
Conformity to reality, faithfulness, and integrity; in a biblical context, it refers to God's nature and the alignment of one's speech and actions with His absolute standard.
hodos · Greek Noun
The prescribed manner of life, conduct, or spiritual path that conforms to the will and revealed character of God.
This encounter showcases the volatile political climate of Judea under Roman occupation, where religious and political factions like the Pharisees and Herodians sought to use Jesus to advance their own agendas.
c. 4 BC
Death of Herod the Great
Herod the Great, a client king of Rome, dies. His kingdom is divided among his sons, leading to further Roman involvement and unrest in Judea.
AD 6
Quirinius' Census
The Roman governor Quirinius conducts a census in Judea to assess taxes. This event sparks significant Jewish opposition and is a point of contention regarding Roman authority and taxation.
c. AD 26-36
Pontius Pilate's Governorship
Pontius Pilate serves as the Roman prefect of Judea. His tenure is marked by various clashes with Jewish religious sensitivities, particularly concerning Roman symbols and taxation.
c. AD 30-33— this verse
Jesus' Ministry in Judea
Jesus engages in his public ministry, teaching and performing miracles throughout Judea, drawing large crowds and challenging the religious authorities. This period sees increasing tension.
This passage describes the same group of adversaries approaching Jesus with a similar deceptive tactic, attempting to 'catch him in his words' by asking a question designed to trap him.
Matthew 16:6Here, Jesus warns his disciples about the 'leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees,' highlighting their corrupting influence and deceptive teachings, which is exactly what the Pharisees are employing in Matthew 22.
John 7:11-13This passage shows the crowds whispering about Jesus due to fear of the Jewish leaders, illustrating the atmosphere of intimidation and scrutiny that Jesus faced, and which his adversaries sought to exploit.
Romans 13:7Paul’s teaching here on rendering to Caesar what is Caesar's and to God what is God's directly addresses the core issue Jesus navigates in Matthew 22, emphasizing the balance between civic duty and divine allegiance.
barnesMatthew 22:16: "And they sent out unto him their disciples with the Herodians, saying, Master, we know that thou art true, and teachest the way of God in truth, neither carest thou for any man: for thou regardest not the person of men."
The Herodians - It is not certainly known who these were. It is probable that they took their name from Herod the Great. Perhaps they were first a political party, and were then distinguished for holding some of the special opinions of Herod. Dr. Prideaux thinks…
henryMatthew 22:15-22: "Then went the Pharisees, and took counsel how they might entangle him in his talk."
22:15-22 The Pharisees sent their disciples with the Herodians, a party among the Jews, who were for full subjection to the Roman emperor. Though opposed to each other, they joined against Christ. What they said of Christ was right; whether they knew it or not, blessed be God we know it. Jesus Christ was a faithful Teacher, and a bold reprover. Christ saw their wickedness. Whatever mask the hy…
These religious leaders try to flatter Jesus by saying he teaches truth and doesn't care about appearances. This isn't just a compliment; it's a deliberate tactic to make him feel safe to give an answer that will trap him, playing on his known impartiality. Their intention is to use his integrity against him, revealing the depth of their malicious plot.
Having just confounded the chief priests and elders with a parable, the Pharisees now plot with the Herodians, a political faction that supported Roman rule, to trap Jesus. They approach him with an outwardly respectful but deceitful compliment, praising his truthfulness and impartiality, in order to entice him into making a statement that could be used against him by either the Romans or the Jewish people.
Having just confounded the chief priests and elders with a parable, the Pharisees now plot with the Herodians, a political faction that supported Roman rule, to trap Jesus. They approach him with an outwardly respectful but deceitful compliment, praising his truthfulness and impartiality, in order to entice him into making a statement that could be used against him by either the Romans or the Jewish people.
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Their common enemy, Jesus, and the threat He posed to both their religious and political positions, forces them to set aside their deep-seated animosity. This alliance highlights how powerful opposition to Christ can unite even the most unlikely groups.
c. AD 30-33
Formation of the Herodians
The Herodians, a political faction supporting the Herodian dynasty and generally aligned with Roman rule, emerge as a distinct group, often in opposition to the Pharisees.
c. AD 30-33
Pharisees and Herodians Ally Against Jesus
The Pharisees and Herodians, despite their usual animosity, form a temporary alliance to trap Jesus with difficult questions concerning Roman taxation, aiming to discredit him with either the crowds or the Roman authorities.
"And they sent their disciples to him, along with the Herodians, saying, “Teacher, we know that you are true and teach the way of God truthfully, and you do not care about anyone’s opinion, for you are not swayed by appearances." — These religious leaders try to flatter Jesus by saying he teaches truth and doesn't care about appearances. This isn't just a compliment; it's a deliberate tactic to make him feel safe to give an ans…
