Context
In Matthew 15:9 should be read within the flow of its chapter and the larger argument of In Matthew.
Common Interpretations
A third Greek verb translated worship is σέβομαι (sebomai, SEH-boh-my): to revere or show devotion. In Matthew 15:9 Jesus quotes Isaiah: “They worship Me in vain; they teach as doctrine the precepts of men” (BSB). The surrounding dispute concerns a tradition that sets aside God's command to honor parents. Jesus is not judging whether people held a moving service. He is exposing reverence made empty when human teaching displaces God's command.
Another verb, εὐσεβέω (eusebeō, yoo-seh-BEH-oh), can describe practicing devotion. In 1 Timothy 5:4, Paul applies it to children and grandchildren caring for widowed family members. The BSB says they must “show godliness to their own family.” Devotion appears here in care at home, not in the mood of a room. Acts 17:23 uses the same verb as Paul speaks to Athenians about their religious practice; he then tells them of the God they do not know. Sincere devotion still needs truth.
These words do not all describe the same thing. Bowing, serving, revering, and living out devotion can belong together in a faithful life, but each passage must be allowed to say which one it is speaking about. That is why collapsing them into worship costs us meaning.
Current Position
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.