Book of Matthew - Chapter 9 - Verse 3

When the scribes said "This man blasphemeth" in reference to Jesus, they were expressing their belief that Jesus was speaking sacrilegiously or showing contempt for God. In Jewish law, blasphemy was considered a serious offense punishable by death. The scribes, who were experts in religious law, likely took issue with Jesus' claims and teachings that challenged traditional beliefs and practices. Their accusation highlights the growing tension between Jesus and the religious authorities of his time. By accusing Jesus of blasphemy, the scribes were attempting to discredit him and undermine his message. This verse serves as a reminder of the opposition Jesus faced during his ministry and the controversies surrounding his teachings.

Within this verse, the focus lies on the response of the scribes to Jesus' actions. The scribes were scholars well-versed in the Jewish scriptures and laws, holding a position of authority in the community. When they accused Jesus of blasphemy, they were asserting that he was speaking against God or claiming to be God himself, which was considered a grave offense according to Jewish law.

By examining the original Greek word for "blasphemeth" used in this verse, we can gain further insight into the significance of the scribes' accusation. The word in Greek is "βλασφημεῖ" (blasphemei), which means to speak irreverently or slanderously about God. This highlights the seriousness of the scribes' accusation towards Jesus and their perception of his teachings.

From a theological perspective, this verse raises questions about the nature of Jesus' identity and the reactions of those around him. It prompts readers to contemplate the significance of Jesus' words and actions, as well as the different interpretations of his message among various groups of people during his ministry.