In the foregoing chapter, we had our Saviour’s discourses with the scribes and Pharisees; here we have his discourse concerning them, or rather against them. I. He allows their office, Matt. 23:2, 3. II. He warns his disciples not to imitate their hypocrisy and pride, Matt. 23:4-12. III. He exhibits a charge against them for divers high crimes and misdemeanors, corrupting the law, opposing the gospel, and treacherous dealing both with God and man; and to each article he prefixes a woe, Matt. 23:13-33. IV. He passes sentence upon Jerusalem, and foretels the ruin of the city and temple, especially for the sin of persecution, Matt. 23:34-39.