And so upon you will come all the righteous blood shed on earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zechariah son of Berechiah, whom you murdered between the temple and the altar. And so upon you will come all the righteous blood shed on earth,This phrase indicates a divine judgment pronounced upon the religious leaders of Jesus' time. The "righteous blood" refers to the innocent lives taken throughout history, emphasizing the gravity of their actions. The concept of blood crying out for justice is rooted in Genesis 4:10, where Abel's blood cries out to God from the ground. This judgment is a culmination of the sins of past generations, highlighting the continuity of sin and the collective responsibility of the leaders. Rev 18:24 And there was found in her the blood of prophets… from the blood of righteous Abel Abel, the son of Adam and Eve, is the first martyr recorded in the Bible, killed by his brother Cain out of jealousy (Genesis 4:8). Abel's righteousness is acknowledged in Hebrews 11:4, where his faith is commended. His murder marks the beginning of a long history of persecution against those who are righteous, setting a precedent for the suffering of the innocent. Gen 4:8-10 Then Cain said to his brother Abel, “Let us go out… to the blood of Zechariah son of Berechiah, Zechariah, son of Berechiah, is a more complex figure. He is often identified with the prophet Zechariah, who authored the book bearing his name. However, the reference here is likely to Zechariah, son of Jehoiada, who was stoned in the temple court as recorded in 2 Chronicles 24:20-22. This identification underscores the severity of the leaders' actions, as they are linked to the murder of a prophet within the sacred precincts of the temple. Luk 11:50-51 As a result, this generation will be charged with the blood… whom you murdered between the temple and the altar. This phrase highlights the sacrilege of the act, as the temple was considered the holiest place on earth, and the altar was central to Jewish worship and sacrifice. The murder of Zechariah in such a location underscores the depth of the leaders' corruption and their disregard for God's holiness. This act of violence within the temple precincts serves as a stark illustration of the leaders' hypocrisy and their failure to uphold the sanctity of God's house. 2Ch 24:21-22 But they conspired against Zechariah… Persons / Places / Events 1. AbelThe second son of Adam and Eve, known for his righteous offering to God, which led to his murder by his brother Cain (Genesis 4:1-10). Abel is often seen as the first martyr for righteousness. 2. Zechariah son of Berekiah A prophet who was murdered, as mentioned in 2 Chronicles 24:20-22. His death is cited as an example of the persecution of God's messengers. 3. Temple and Altar The location where Zechariah was murdered, symbolizing the sacred space that was violated by this act of violence. 4. Pharisees and Teachers of the Law The religious leaders to whom Jesus was speaking in this passage, condemning them for their hypocrisy and the bloodshed of the prophets. 5. Jesus Christ The speaker of this passage, who is pronouncing judgment on the religious leaders for their role in the history of persecuting God's messengers. Teaching Points The Consequences of Rejecting God's MessengersJesus highlights the serious consequences of rejecting and persecuting those who speak God's truth. This serves as a warning to remain open to God's message and messengers. The Continuity of Righteous Suffering From Abel to Zechariah, the suffering of the righteous is a recurring theme. Believers today should be prepared for opposition when standing for truth. The Sacredness of Life and Justice The shedding of innocent blood is a grave sin. Christians are called to uphold justice and protect the innocent. Hypocrisy and Accountability Jesus condemns the religious leaders for their hypocrisy. Believers must examine their own lives for consistency between their faith and actions. Historical Context and Prophetic Fulfillment Understanding the historical context of Jesus' words helps us see the fulfillment of prophecy and the continuity of God's plan through history. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the account of Abel's murder by Cain illustrate the theme of righteous suffering, and how can this be applied to modern-day situations of injustice?2. In what ways can we ensure that we are receptive to God's messengers today, avoiding the mistakes of the Pharisees and teachers of the law? 3. How does the account of Zechariah's murder challenge us to consider the sacredness of life and the importance of justice in our communities? 4. What are some practical steps we can take to avoid hypocrisy in our own lives, ensuring that our actions align with our professed beliefs? 5. How does understanding the historical context of Jesus' words in Matthew 23:35 enhance our appreciation of the continuity of God's plan throughout the Bible? Connections to Other Scriptures Genesis 4:1-10The account of Cain and Abel, highlighting the first act of murder and the concept of righteous blood being shed. 2 Chronicles 24:20-22 The account of Zechariah's murder, providing historical context for Jesus' reference. Hebrews 11:4 Abel is mentioned in the "Faith Hall of Fame," emphasizing his righteousness and faith. Luke 11:50-51 A parallel passage where Jesus reiterates the judgment on the generation for the blood of the prophets.
People Abel, Barachias, Berechiah, Hen, Jesus, Zachariah, Zacharias, ZechariahPlaces JerusalemTopics Abel, Altar, Barachiah, Barachi'ah, Barachias, Berechiah, Berekiah, Blood, Death, Fall, Guilt, Innocent, Killed, Murdered, Poured, Righteous, Sanctuary, Shed, Slew, Temple, Upright, Zachariah, Zacharias, Zechariah, Zechari'ahDictionary of Bible Themes Matthew 23:1-36 5379 law, Christ's attitude 5493 retribution Library The Morality of the Gospel. Is stating the morality of the Gospel as an argument of its truth, I am willing to admit two points; first, that the teaching of morality was not the primary design of the mission; secondly, that morality, neither in the Gospel, nor in any other book, can be a subject, properly speaking, of discovery. If I were to describe in a very few words the scope of Christianity as a revelation, [49] I should say that it was to influence the conduct of human life, by establishing the proof of a future state … William Paley—Evidences of Christianity Jesus' Last Public Discourse. Denunciation of Scribes and Pharisees. Christianity Misunderstood by Believers. First Attempts on Jerusalem. For which Cause Our Lord Himself Also with his Own Mouth Saith... Relation of the Pharisees to the Sadducees and Essenes, and to the Gospel of Christ Among the People, and with the Pharisees The General Service to a Prophet. Of the Power of Making Laws. The Cruelty of the Pope and his Adherents, in this Respect, in Tyrannically Oppressing and Destroying Souls. Hints to Teachers and Questions for Pupils On Attending the Church Service Machinations of the Enemies of Jesus. The Early Ministry in Judea The Crossing of the Jordan Subjects of Study. Home Education in Israel; Female Education. Elementary Schools, Schoolmasters, and School Arrangements. Letter Xliv Concerning the Maccabees but to whom Written is Unknown. Number and Order of the Separate Books. Elucidations. "The Carnal Mind is Enmity against God for it is not Subject to the Law of God, Neither Indeed Can Be. So Then they that Are We are not Binding Heavy Burdens and Laying them Upon Your Shoulders... Repentance and Impenitence. Second Sunday after Trinity Exhortation to Brotherly Love. Links Matthew 23:35 NIVMatthew 23:35 NLT Matthew 23:35 ESV Matthew 23:35 NASB Matthew 23:35 KJV Matthew 23:35 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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