Mat 15:8-9 | Barnes | STEP | Verse 8. Draweth nigh unto me with their mouth , etc. That is, they are regular in the forms of worship. They are strict in ceremonial observances, and keep the law outwardly; but God requires the heart, and that they have not rendered. (f) "This people"

Matthew 15:8-9

Verse 8. Draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, etc. That is, they are regular in the forms of worship. They are strict in ceremonial observances, and keep the law outwardly; but God requires the heart, and that they have not rendered.

Mt 15:1 (f) "This people" Isa 29:13 Verse 9. In vain they do worship me. That is, their attempts to worship are vain, or are not real worship--they are mere forms.

Teaching for doctrines, etc. The word doctrines, here, means the requirements of religion--things to be believed and practised in religion. God only has a right to declare what shall be done in his service; but they held their traditions to be superior to the written word of God, and taught them as doctrines binding the conscience.

Mt 15:1

(g) "for doctrines" Col 2:22