After reading chapters one and two, you might have noticed that the Nativity account in Matthew is not 'cozy.' There is the threat to Mary, when Joseph thinks she has committed adultery. There is the need to flee to Egypt (and, according to Matthew's account), find a new home in Nazareth.
With those crises in mind, read slowly through chapter 23. Keep in mind that "scribes and Pharisees" does not mean "all Jews." Jesus is contending with the religious leaders of his day, but he is doing it from within the Jewish tradition, not from the outside.
However, many of the issues raised here did become contentious in the early church - particularly as it welcomed the Gentiles to faith in Christ. The heart of the question is what is the real fulfillment of the Law - outside appearance or inner conversion?
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