Matthew 23:3

Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not.

"Why do your disciples keep transgressing the tradition of the elders by not washing their hands before eating?"

But Peter and the apostles said in reply.

Every one should be in the higher authorities; for there is no authority apart from God. The authorities that now exist have been appointed by God.

"Then he went to the second, and said the same thing to him. "'I will not,' he answered; but afterward he changed his mind and went.

and are confident that you yourself are a darkness,

For although they keep up the outward form of religion, they deny its power.

They profess to know God, but by their deeds they disown him; in that they are detestable, disobedient, and reprobate for good work of any sort.