Matthew closed his account of this encounter by recording the reaction of the multitude, not the reaction of the Sadducees. Probably few of the Sadducees changed their theology as a result of this conversation since they continued to oppose Jesus. However the reaction of the crowd shows that Jesus" teaching had a powerful impact. To the unprejudiced observer, Jesus" arguments, authority, and understanding of the Old Testament were astonishing. Matthew undoubtedly hoped this would be the reaction of his readers too. [source][source][source]
This pericope reveals the intensity of the opposition to Jesus that existed among Israel"s leaders. This was the third group to try to trap Him in one day. It also shows the guilt of Israel"s leaders since they did not understand either the Scriptures or God"s power. Jesus had spoken of people entering the kingdom after death ( Matthew 22:10). To do so there would have to be a resurrection. Jesus also confirmed belief that the patriarchs would live in the kingdom by what He said. Thus Jesus" teaching about resurrection answered questions about participation in the kingdom because of its postponement. Not many in Jesus" immediate audience may have understood this, but Matthew"s readers could. [source][source][source]
Context Summary
Matthew 22:23-33 - The Scriptures Teach The Resurrection
The Sadducees professed themselves to be bound by the Pentateuch, and to have searched in vain for evidences of a life beyond. They were greatly startled, therefore, when our Lord proved human immortality from the book of Exodus. He had never passed through their schools and sat at the feet of their great teachers, but He showed them that "at the Bush" the voice of God attested eternal life.
The great I AM would never have spoken of Himself as the God of the patriarchs, centuries after their earthly career had closed, unless they had been living somewhere still. It was certain that they were all alive; otherwise God would have said, "I was their God." Death is not a chamber, but a passage; not an abiding-place, but a crossing over; not a state, but an act, an experience, a crossing of the bar, a going within the veil. Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and all the myriads who have warred and stormed over the earth, are living as intensely as ever. [source]
Chapter Summary: Matthew 22
1The parable of the marriage of the king's son 9The vocation of the Gentiles 12The punishment of him who lacked a wedding garment 15Tribute ought to be paid to Caesar 23Jesus confutes the Sadducees for the resurrection; 34answers which is the first and great commandment; 41and puzzles the Pharisees by a question about the Messiah
Greek Commentary for Matthew 22:33
They were astonished [εχεπλησσοντο] Descriptive imperfect passive showing the continued amazement of the crowds. They were struck out (literally). [source]
What do the individual words in Matthew 22:33 mean?
Andhaving heardthecrowdswere astonishedattheteachingof Him
Greek Commentary for Matthew 22:33
Descriptive imperfect passive showing the continued amazement of the crowds. They were struck out (literally). [source]