18 There came to him Sadducees, who say that there is no resurrection. They asked him, saying,
*Minor differences ignored. Grouped by changes, with first version listed as example.
See this passage fully explained in the notes at Matthew 22:23-33.
See this question, concerning the resurrection, explained in detail on Matthew 22:23-32 (note).
(3) Then come unto him the Sadducees, which say there is no resurrection; and they asked him, saying,
(3) The resurrection of the body is confirmed, opposed to the foolish ignorance and malice of the Sadducees.
Then came unto him the Sadducees,.... The same day, immediately after he had silenced the Pharisees and Herodians: these were a set of men distinct from the former, in some of their sentiments, especially in their religions ones, and particularly in the following:
which say there is no resurrection: of the dead, in a literal sense, either general or particular; See Gill on Matthew 22:23;
and they asked him, saying; as in the next verse.
A right knowledge of the Scripture, as the fountain whence all revealed religion now flows, and the foundation on which it is built, is the best preservative against error. Christ put aside the objection of the Sadducees, who were the scoffing infidels of that day, by setting the doctrine of the future state in a true light. The relation between husband and wife, though appointed in the earthly paradise, will not be known in the heavenly one. It is no wonder if we confuse ourselves with foolish errors, when we form our ideas of the world of spirits by the affairs of this world of sense. It is absurd to think that the living God should be the portion and happiness of a man if he is for ever dead; and therefore it is certain that Abraham's soul exists and acts, though now for a time separate from the body. Those that deny the resurrection greatly err, and ought to be told so. Let us seek to pass through this dying world, with a joyful hope of eternal happiness, and of a glorious resurrection.
Then come the Sadducees. For notes on this interview with the Sadducees, see Matthew 22:23-33. Compare Luke 20:27-40.
*More commentary available at chapter level.