John Gill Commentary Matthew 15:1

"Then there come to Jesus from Jerusalem Pharisees and scribes, saying," — Matthew 15:1 (ASV)

Then came to Jesus Scribes and Pharisees

After he had performed so many miracles, particularly that of feeding five thousand men, besides women and children, with five loaves and two fishes, the fame of which had reached Jerusalem and occasioned much talk there about him.

The Scribes and Pharisees, who were his inveterate enemies, hearing of this, came to him where he was in Galilee.

They came to know the truth of these things, to converse with him, and to watch and observe what he said and did.

which were of Jerusalem, saying .

There were Scribes and Pharisees throughout the land, but those of Jerusalem were the chief.

They were men of the greatest learning and abilities, and were more expert in their religion and customs.

These were either sent by the sanhedrim at Jerusalem or came of themselves, taking upon them a greater power and authority of examining, correcting, directing, and advising.