The teachers of religious law broke the second command by failing to love their neighbors, as was seen in their cheating widows of their property. They clearly were cheating the most vulnerable and needy people despite God’s concern for widows (Deuteronomy 14:29; Psalms 68:5; 146:9; Isaiah 1:17; Jeremiah 7:6; 49:11) and his condemnation of those who mistreat them (Isaiah 1:23; Ezekiel 22:7; Zechariah 7:10; Malachi 3:5). The teachers of religious law showed false holiness through outward religious actions (see Matthew 6:5–6; Luke 18:11–12).
These men will receive greater condemnation: This refers to the final judgment (Mark 9:42–48; see Luke 14:11).