The man of St Matthew

THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW

Seven brothers, one widow: Mt 20,23-33

Three particular issues are treated in the three episodes that now follow up to the end of the chapter. Have a look at what the three have in common.

The Sadducees we are told in verse 23 say that there is no resurrection. See Dn 12,2. For this group, only the five books of the Law were authoritative.

They therefore try to ridicule and reduce to absurdity the whole idea of resurrection with their story, 22,24-28. The law behind their example is found in Dt 25,5-10. See also Genesis 38 (especially Gen 38,8) and Tobit 6,11-15.

Verse 28 therefore offers Jesus their conclusion. What does resurrection mean for them?

Note how in verse 29, Jesus makes two comments and then answers them in reverse order.

Verse 30 states Jesus' teaching about the resurrection. Who are the angels? What is Jesus saying here?

In verses 31 and 32, Jesus takes on the Sadducees' interpretation of Scripture. He refers to Exodus 3,6.15. What is Jesus implying? How has he bettered the Sadducees' understanding of the Law?

Note that the conclusion in verse 33 is special to Matthew. What has he done here?

Look now at my response.

We continue with the two final scenes in this chapter, Mt 22,34-46.

The Sunday Gospel

This scene is omitted in the Sunday Gospel. Luke's slightly more detailed version (Lk 20,27-38) is read instead (32nd Sunday, cycle C).