Devine Scripture

Matthew 22:16

What does Matthew 22:16 mean?

A plain-English look at Matthew 22:16 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Matthew 22:16 means

To execute their plot, the Pharisees send their disciples, accompanied by the Herodians. This alliance is unusual, as these groups were typically opposed, but their shared animosity toward Jesus united them. They begin with disingenuous flattery, praising Jesus' truthfulness and impartiality, hoping to lower His guard. Their false accolades, saying He 'carest not for any one' and 'regardest not the person of men,' ironically speak truth about Jesus' character even as they attempt to manipulate Him.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

And they send to him their disciples, with the Herodians, saying, Teacher, we know that thou art true, and teachest the way of God in truth, and carest not for any one: for thou regardest not the person of men.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

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.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

And they send to him their disciples, with the Herodians, saying, Teacher, we know that thou art true, and teachest the way of God in truth, and carest not for any one: for thou regardest not the person of men.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And they sent to him their disciples, with the Herodians, saying, Master, we see that you are true, and that you are teaching the true way of God, and have no fear of anyone, because you have no respect for a man's position.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

and they send to him their disciples with the Herodians, saying, `Teacher, we have known that thou art true, and the way of God in truth thou dost teach, and thou art not caring for any one, for thou dost not look to the face of men;

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

And they sent to him their disciples with the Herodians, saying: Master, we know that thou art a true speaker and teachest the way of God in truth. Neither carest thou for any man: for thou dost not regard the person of men.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

And they send out to him their disciples with the Herodians, saying, Teacher, we know that thou art true and teachest the way ofGod in truth, and carest not for any one, for thou regardest not men's person;

Context

This verse directly details the Pharisees’ strategy, revealing their deceptive approach through an unlikely alliance with the Herodians. Their insincere flattery sets up the trap question perfectly, aiming to compel Jesus into an answer that would displease either Rome or the Jewish populace. This elaborate setup highlights the malicious intent behind their seemingly respectful inquiry.

v.15Then went the Pharisees, and took counsel how they might ensnare him in his talk.

v.16This passage

v.17Tell us therefore, What thinkest thou? Is it lawful to give tribute unto Cæsar, or not?

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Luke 7:40

    And Jesus answering said unto him, Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee. And he saith, Teacher, say on.

  • Matthew 22:26

    in like manner the second also, and the third, unto the seventh.

  • Mark 8:15

    And he charged them, saying, Take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod.

  • Matthew 22:24

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

  • James 3:17

    But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without variance, without hypocrisy.

  • Proverbs 29:5

    A man that flattereth his neighbor Spreadeth a net for his steps.

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