Bible Strands

Matthew 22:33

When the crowds heard this, they were astonished at His teaching.

Berean Standard Bible

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Study note

Setting — The text records that the crowds heard Jesus and were astonished at His teaching immediately after His response to the Sadducees regarding resurrection. The narrative then shifts to the Pharisees gathering together after Jesus silences them.

The words — The Greek ἀκούσαντες (akousantes, "having heard") and ἐξεπλὴσσοντο (exeplēssonto, "were astonished") describe the crowds' immediate reaction to Jesus' words. These terms emphasize a sudden, overwhelming response to the content of His instruction.

The thread — This reaction pattern repeats in Matthew 7:28 and Mark 6:2, where crowds express astonishment at Jesus' teaching. Matthew 22:22 also records a similar response of amazement from Jesus' opponents before they depart.

Why it lands — The text requires the reader to recognize that Jesus' instruction carries authority that commands immediate attention, regardless of the listener's background. It demands a clear-eyed assessment of whether one's own beliefs align with the reality of God's character.

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The Greek words

King James Version

And when the multitude heard this, they were astonished at his doctrine.

Cross-references