Matthew 16:6

Afrikaans 2020 (Die Bybel 2020-vertaling)

Jesus het vir hulle gesê: “Pasop, en wees op julle hoede vir die suurdeeg van die •Fariseërs en •Sadduseërs.”

What Does This Mean?

In Matthew 16:6, Jesus warns his disciples to be cautious of the teachings and influences of the Pharisees and Sadducees, likening them to leaven, which spreads through dough quickly.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a small piece of bad candy. If you mix it with your other candies, the whole bunch might taste yucky. Jesus is saying that the Pharisees' ideas are like this bad candy and can spoil everything if you're not careful.

Historical Background

Matthew wrote this account of Jesus's teachings around AD 80-90 to a primarily Jewish-Christian audience. At the time, the Pharisees and Sadducees were influential religious groups known for their strict interpretations and practices that often conflicted with Jesus' teachings.

Living It Out Today

Today, we might think about how certain ideologies or toxic behaviors can spread in our communities or workplaces. It’s important to be discerning and avoid negative influences that can undermine positive values and actions.

Topics

• discernment
• influence
• religious practices
• warning
• caution

Related Verses

• Mark 8:15
• Luke 12:1
• 1 Corinthians 5:6-7
• Galatians 5:9
• Deuteronomy 13:1-5

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Jesus use leaven as a metaphor?

Leaven spreads quickly and changes the whole dough. In this context, it symbolizes how false teachings can spread and corrupt others.

Who were the Pharisees and Sadducees in Jesus' time?

The Pharisees were known for strict adherence to Jewish law and oral traditions, while the Sadducees were more conservative and less focused on tradition, often holding positions of power.

What can we learn from this verse about our relationships with others?

We should be cautious and discerning in our interactions. Just as leaven affects dough, people's actions and words can influence us deeply.

How does this relate to modern life?

In today’s world, this warning applies to avoiding harmful ideologies or individuals who might lead you astray from your values or faith.