so do and observe whatever they tell you, but not the works they do. For they preach, but do not practice.
Christ limits this to what agrees with Moses' law itself, not their glosses and traditions which often contradict it. They say and do not: they command others strictly to obey while they themselves neglect what they teach. Their doctrine may guide you, but their works must not be your pattern.
AI summary
He means all they teach that is consistent with the law of Moses, the commands they read and properly explain. Their interpretation of the law is mainly sound, but their lives contradict their teaching. You are bound to obey God's law, not to frame your life by the example of wicked men.
AI summary
The word "therefore" is crucial: obey only what they draw from the law itself, not their traditions. Christ who condemned their traditions elsewhere cannot shield them here. Matthew alone reports this charge to respect them, showing his concern to conciliate Jewish readers.
AI summary