Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Matthew 23:4

"Yea, they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men`s shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with their finger." — Matthew 23:4 (ASV)

This verse charges the leaders with putting “heavy loads” on “men’s shoulders”—laying down irksome rules—and then refusing “to lift a finger” to help. This does not mean they were unwilling to obey burdensome rules themselves but that they refused to help those who collapsed under their rules. Thus the Pharisees are not like Jesus, whose burden is light and whose promises to give rest (11:28–30); by their teaching they are doing more harm than good.

This interpretation of this verse means that Jesus’ words in vv.2–3a are an instance of biting irony, bordering on sarcasm. He is implying that the Jewish religious leaders have presumed to sit in Moses’ seat. He therefore warns the crowds and his disciples in the sharpest way possible.