Matthew 22:24

Saying, Master, Moses said, If a man die, having no children, his brother shall marry his wife, and raise up seed unto his brother.

Matthew 22:24 (KJV)

Context

In this verse, the Sadducees, a Jewish sect that denied the resurrection, address Jesus as “Master” (Teacher) and cite the Mosaic law concerning levirate marriage. This law, found in Deuteronomy 25:5, required that if a man died without children, his brother should marry the widow to raise up offspring (seed) for the deceased, preserving his family line, name, and inheritance in Israel. The Sadducees use this law to construct a hypothetical scenario involving seven brothers, aiming to trap Jesus and discredit belief in the resurrection.

Meaning

Jesus begins His response by saying, “Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God.” He identifies two critical errors in the Sadducees’ thinking. First, they lacked a true understanding of the Scriptures. Though well-versed in the law, they failed to grasp the broader scope of God’s Word, including the prophecies and promises concerning the resurrection. Second, they underestimated the power of God, not comprehending that He can raise the dead and sustain life beyond the grave. Their materialistic view of the afterlife limited their perception of God’s capabilities.

Biblical connections

The practice of levirate marriage predates Moses, as seen in the earlier case of Er and Onan (Genesis 38). The Sadducees’ citation is not a verbatim quote of Deuteronomy 25:5 but accurately conveys its sense. This passage demonstrates the importance of understanding Old Testament law in its historical and cultural setting.

Application

This verse reminds believers to seek a deep understanding of the Scriptures and to recognize the power of God. It encourages us to study and meditate on God’s Word, so that we may grow in knowledge and faith, and avoid error and misconceptions.

Reflection

Consider how a limited view of God’s power might affect your own beliefs. Are there areas where you, like the Sadducees, rely on human reasoning rather than the full counsel of Scripture? Trust that the God who raised Jesus from the dead is able to accomplish what seems impossible.