What is the context?
Two woes develop the difference between appearance and reality. First, Jesus compares the leaders to a cup and dish cleaned outside but filled inside with greed and self-indulgence. He calls for the inside to be cleaned first, so that the outside becomes clean as well.
Then He compares them to whitewashed tombs: attractive outside, but containing bones and uncleanness within. Numbers 19:11–16 explains the uncleanness associated with contact with a corpse or grave. A later Jewish text, Mishnah Shekalim 1:1, records the marking of graves in Adar. That supplies background for making graves visible; Matthew's own emphasis is the contrast between the tomb's appearance and its contents.
Jesus states the comparison plainly: outward righteousness conceals hypocrisy and wickedness. The two pictures expose a religious life concerned with how it appears while its inner character remains corrupt. Cleaning the outside cannot settle what is wrong within.
How is this passage commonly understood?
Christians commonly understand these pictures as a call for inner character to agree with outward conduct. Wesley on 23:25 connects the inner corruption with unjust gain and uncontrolled desires; the US Catholic bishops' notes on 23:25–28 emphasize appearances hiding impurity.
Where does this fit in God's plan?
Scripture gives a positive answer to the need for inward cleansing. Psalm 51:6–12 asks God for a clean heart and a willing spirit. In Ezekiel 36:24–28, He promises cleansing, a new heart, and His Spirit leading His people into obedience.
Titus 3:4–8 describes God's mercy bringing new birth and renewal through the Holy Spirit, poured out through Jesus Christ. It then calls those who believe to do good. The larger purpose reaches from the inward change God gives into the visible life of His people.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.