A Simple Question

August 14th, 2025

Matthew 22:34-40.

The Pharisees were not allies of the Sadducees and they were even more against Jesus. When the Pharisees learned that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, they were more irritated that Christ had been honored then pleased that the Sadducees had been embarrassed.

Then a Pharisee lawyer asked Jesus a seemingly simple question: “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” (v. 36). The Pharisee wasn’t trying to test Jesus’ knowledge; rather, he looking to take advantage of the arguments about the most important law. By Jesus identifying the most important law, others would likely become upset with whatever Jesus answered. The Pharisee was trying to set a trap.

Jesus responded truthfully and swiftly, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind” (v. 37). He immediately followed this with: “And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself'” (v. 39).

Why was it so important for Jesus to talk about neighbors at such a significant time? Simple—it’s just that important! As much as we look out and care for ourselves, we are to do that for our neighbors. We must care for and respect all men and women.

Author: Kelly Brown