Sure, here is a detailed commentary on Matthew 22:31:

Matthew 22:31 in the King James Version states, "But as touching the resurrection of the dead, have ye not read that which was spoken unto you by God, saying,"

This passage is part of a larger conversation between Jesus and the Sadducees, who did not believe in the resurrection of the dead. In this particular passage, Jesus is responding to the Sadducees' question about marriage in the afterlife, using the example of a woman who had been married to seven brothers in succession, all of whom died childless.

The verse draws on the authority of God's spoken word, quoting from the Old Testament to affirm the reality of the resurrection. By referring to God's words, Jesus seeks to establish the trustworthiness and reliability of the concept of resurrection, challenging the beliefs of the Sadducees.

In this exchange, Jesus addresses the theological debate about the afterlife, highlighting the importance of understanding and interpreting the scriptures accurately. By referencing the words spoken by God, Jesus emphasizes the authoritative nature of scripture, and implies that the Sadducees' disbelief in the resurrection is a misunderstanding of God's revelation.

Furthermore, this verse also underscores the continuity of God's message throughout history. By quoting from the Old Testament, Jesus highlights the consistency of God's teachings, showing that the concept of resurrection has been a part of God's plan for humanity since ancient times.

The broader context of this verse speaks to the overarching theme of the afterlife and the resurrection. Jesus' response to the Sadducees not only affirms the reality of the resurrection but also emphasizes the significance of understanding and interpreting the scriptures in light of God's truth. Through this dialogue, Jesus challenges the Sadducees' limited understanding of scripture and encourages them to reconsider their beliefs in light of God's revelation.

Symbolically, this verse represents the authority of scripture and the continuity of God's message. By quoting from the Old Testament, Jesus affirms the timeless truth of God's word and emphasizes the unchanging nature of God's plan for humanity. The reference to God's spoken word also underscores the divine nature of scripture, highlighting its infallibility and reliability as a guide for understanding spiritual truths.

In summary, Matthew 22:31 is a pivotal verse in the larger dialogue between Jesus and the Sadducees about the resurrection. Through this verse, Jesus affirms the reality of the resurrection, underscores the authority and continuity of God's message, and challenges the Sadducees' misunderstanding of scripture. This passage serves as a reminder of the importance of interpreting scripture accurately and recognizing the timeless truths found within God's word.