The Verse
King James Version (KJV): And they shall kill him, and the third day he shall be raised again. And they were exceeding sorry.
New International Version (NIV): They will kill him, and on the third day he will be raised to life. And the disciples were filled with grief.
English Standard Version (ESV): And they will kill him, and he will be raised on the third day. And they were greatly distressed.
Introduction
In the heart of the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus shares a powerful and prophetic message with his disciples. The verse Matthew 17:23 captures a moment of foretelling, where Jesus speaks of both death and resurrection, concepts that are central to the Christian faith. This verse offers a profound opportunity to reflect on the themes of sacrifice, hope, and eternal life. Join us as we delve into the meaning and significance of this pivotal scripture.
Jesus’s words were not just a prediction; they were a promise of victory over death, a cornerstone of Christian belief. The disciples’ reaction of sorrow reminds us of the human response to suffering and loss. Yet, within this sorrow lies a seed of hope, for the promise is not just of death, but of resurrection.
Historical Context
The Gospel of Matthew is traditionally attributed to Matthew, a tax collector who became one of Jesus’s apostles. This Gospel was likely written between 80-90 AD, aimed at a primarily Jewish audience. The setting of Matthew 17:23 is Jesus’s journey towards Jerusalem, where he would ultimately face crucifixion. This moment is part of Jesus’s effort to prepare his disciples for the events to come, emphasizing both the reality of his impending death and the triumph of his resurrection.
Key Word Analysis
Kill: In Greek, the word used is ‘apokteino,’ meaning to kill or put to death. It signifies the gravity and finality of Jesus’s sacrifice.
Raised: The Greek term ‘egeiro’ means to awaken or lift up, indicating not just a physical resurrection but a spiritual awakening.
Exceeding sorry: The Greek ‘lypeo’ conveys deep emotional pain, highlighting the disciples’ struggle to comprehend the impending loss and the hope beyond it.
Spiritual Insight
This verse reveals the dual nature of Jesus’s mission: sacrifice and victory. It underscores God’s plan for redemption through Jesus’s death and resurrection, offering a profound insight into the nature of divine love and the promise of eternal life. It challenges believers to trust in God’s promise even in the face of sorrow and uncertainty.
Life Application
Modern readers can draw comfort and strength from this verse, as it reminds us that sorrow is not the end of the story. In our daily lives, we face challenges and losses, but through faith in Jesus, we hold onto the promise of resurrection and new life. This verse encourages us to live with hope and assurance, knowing that God’s plan is one of ultimate victory and eternal joy.
What Jesus Might Say About This Verse
My beloved child, in moments of sorrow and doubt, remember this: I have overcome the world. Though you face trials and tribulations, know that I am with you, and I have prepared a place for you. Trust in my resurrection, for it is your assurance of life everlasting. Hold fast to my promise, and let your heart be filled with hope and peace.
Prayer Prompt
Heavenly Father, thank You for the promise of resurrection and eternal life through Jesus Christ. In times of sorrow, help us to remember the hope we have in You. Strengthen our faith and guide us in Your love. Amen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques: Why were the disciples filled with grief?
Ans: The disciples were filled with grief because they could not fully comprehend the necessity of Jesus’s death and were focused on the impending loss.
Ques: What does it mean that Jesus will be 'raised to life'?
Ans: Being 'raised to life' refers to Jesus's resurrection, indicating that death is not the end but the beginning of eternal life in God's kingdom.
Ques: How does this verse relate to the rest of the Gospel?
Ans: This verse is a precursor to the fulfillment of Jesus’s mission. It is central to the Gospel message of salvation and is fulfilled in the resurrection.
Ques: What is the significance of the third day?
Ans: The 'third day' is significant as it fulfills Old Testament prophecies and symbolizes completeness and divine intervention in Jewish tradition.
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