Albert Barnes Commentary Matthew 15:8

"This people honoreth me with their lips; But their heart is far from me." — Matthew 15:8 (ASV)

Draws near to me with their mouth, etc. (Isaiah 29:13). 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.