Matthew 23:35: “And so upon you will come all the righteous blood that has been shed on earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zechariah son of Berekiah, whom you murdered between the temple and the altar.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Jesus condemns the Pharisees and religious leaders, holding them accountable for the long history of rejecting and murdering God’s righteous messengers. He begins with Abel, the first martyr in the Bible, and ends with Zechariah, who was killed in the temple courtyard. These two figures represent the span of biblical history, highlighting the consistent pattern of rebellion against God’s truth.
Jesus is not blaming the Pharisees for acts they did not personally commit but showing that they are part of the same legacy of rejecting God’s Word. By opposing Jesus and plotting His death, they prove themselves to be the spiritual heirs of those who killed the prophets.
Historical Context
Abel, the firstborn of Adam and Eve, was murdered by his brother Cain because Abel’s offering was accepted by God, while Cain’s was not (Genesis 4:1-10). Abel’s death represents the first act of unjust violence against righteousness.
Zechariah’s death is recorded in 2 Chronicles 24:20-22. He was a prophet who called the people to repentance, but they stoned him to death in the temple courtyard. By referring to these two figures, Jesus links the Pharisees to the ongoing rejection of God’s messengers throughout Israel’s history.
Theological Implications
This verse underscores humanity’s tendency to resist God’s truth, even when it is delivered through righteous messengers. It reveals the seriousness of rejecting God’s Word and the accountability that comes with such rebellion.
It also points to Jesus’ role as the ultimate righteous one who would soon be killed. His death would represent the culmination of this pattern of rejection but also the means by which God would offer redemption to the world.
Literary Analysis
The reference to Abel and Zechariah creates a powerful bookend, symbolizing the entirety of Israel’s history. The mention of “righteous blood” emphasizes the innocence of those who were killed and the gravity of the sin committed against them.
Jesus’ use of the phrase “upon you will come” ties the Pharisees’ actions to the larger narrative of rebellion against God. His words are both an indictment of their hypocrisy and a prophetic statement about the consequences they will face.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Genesis 4:10: God confronts Cain, saying Abel’s blood cries out from the ground.
- 2 Chronicles 24:20-22: Zechariah is stoned to death for speaking God’s truth, and his dying words call for God to hold the perpetrators accountable.
- Hebrews 11:4: Abel is commended for his faith, and his story serves as an example of righteousness.
- Luke 11:50-51: A parallel passage where Jesus reiterates the accountability for all righteous bloodshed.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a reminder of the cost of standing for righteousness. Abel and Zechariah are examples of faithfulness to God in the face of opposition, inspiring us to remain steadfast even when it is difficult.
It also challenges us to examine our hearts. Are we resisting God’s truth in any way? Just as the Pharisees rejected Jesus while claiming to honor God, we too can fall into the trap of self-righteousness if we are not careful.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in His persistent pursuit of His people. Despite humanity’s history of rejecting His messengers, God continued to send them, culminating in the sending of His Son. This relentless effort shows His deep desire for reconciliation and relationship with His creation.
This verse also reflects God’s justice. While He is patient and merciful, He holds people accountable for their actions, especially for rejecting His truth and harming His messengers.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the ultimate righteous one whose blood would be shed for the sins of the world. Unlike Abel and Zechariah, Jesus’ death was not just an act of martyrdom but the means by which God provided salvation for all who believe.
By pointing out the Pharisees’ role in continuing the rejection of God’s messengers, Jesus highlights the significance of His mission. His death would bring an end to the cycle of rebellion and open the way for forgiveness and reconciliation with God.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Are there areas in your life where you might be resisting God’s truth or His messengers?
- How can you remain faithful to God, even when facing opposition or rejection?
- What does this verse teach you about the seriousness of rejecting God’s Word?
- How does Jesus’ willingness to die for the sins of the world inspire you to live for Him?
- In what ways can you honor and support those who proclaim God’s truth in the face of opposition?