Bible

Introduction to the Gospel of Matthew

Overview

Matthew wrote certain things about Jesus in his gospel. These things helped people to know about Jesus. They helped them to know that Jesus was the Messiah even though he did not free the Jews from the Roman Empire.

See: Gospel; Messiah (Christ)

Who wrote this gospel?

The book does not give the name of the author. However, since early Christian times scholars have thought that the apostle Matthew wrote this gospel.

See: Apostle; Gospel

To whom did Matthew write?

Matthew wrote to Christians and non-Christians. Scholars think he was thinking more about the Jews when he wrote than the Gentiles.

See: Gentile

What did Mattew write about in this gospel?

The Gospel of Matthew is one of four books in the New Testament that describe some of Jesus’ life. The authors of the gospels wrote in different ways about who Jesus was and what he did. Matthew showed that Jesus is the Messiah and that God would save Israel through him. Matthew often explained that Jesus fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies about the messiah.

See: Messiah (Christ); Gospel; Israel;Fulfill (Fulfillment); Old Testament (Law and Prophets)

Why did Matthew write this gospel?

Matthew wanted his readers to know that Jesus is the messiah. He was different than the messiah they were expecting, but he is still their king. He wanted people to know why the Jews rejected him and the plans God has for Israel in the future.

Outline of the Gospel of Matthew

The birth of Jesus Christ and when he began to serve God in a certain way (1:1-4:25)
Jesus’ teaching on the side of the mountain (5:1-7:28)
Jesus illustrates the kingdom of God by healing people (8:1-9:34)
Jesus’ teaching about his the things God wanted him to do and the kingdom of God (9:35-10:42)
Jesus’ teaching about the gospel of the kingdom of God. The beginning of opposition to Jesus (11:1-12:50)
Jesus’ parables about the kingdom of God (13:1-52)
Further opposition to Jesus and misunderstanding of the kingdom of God (13:53-17:57)
Jesus’ teaching about life in the kingdom of God (18:1-35)
Jesus’ serving God in Jerusalem (19:1-23:39)
Jesus’ teaching on the end of the age (24:1-25:46)
The crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus (26:1-28:15)
The final instruction of Jesus to his disciples (28:16-20)

See: Kingdom of God; Parable; Crucify (Crucifixion); Resurrect (Resurrection) ; Disciple

Matthew

Chapter 1

¹ The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, son of David, son of Abraham.

² Abraham was the father of Isaac, and Isaac the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers.

³ Judah was the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar, Perez the father of Hezron, and Hezron the father of Ram.

⁴ Ram was the father of Amminadab, Amminadab the father of Nahshon, and Nahshon the father of Salmon.

⁵ Salmon was the father of Boaz by Rahab, Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth, Obed the father of Jesse.

⁶ Jesse was the father of David the king.

David was the father of Solomon by the wife of Uriah.

⁷ Solomon was the father of Rehoboam, Rehoboam the father of Abijah, Abijah the father of Asa.

⁸ Asa was the father of Jehoshaphat, Jehoshaphat the father of Joram, and Joram an ancestor of Uzziah.

⁹ Uzziah was the father of Jotham, Jotham the father of Ahaz, Ahaz the father of Hezekiah.

¹⁰ Hezekiah was the father of Manasseh, Manasseh the father of Amon, and Amon the father of Josiah.

¹¹ Josiah was an ancestor of Jechoniah and his brothers at the time of the deportation to Babylon.

¹² After the deportation to Babylon, Jechoniah was the father of Shealtiel, Shealtiel was an ancestor of Zerubbabel.

¹³ Zerubbabel was the father of Abiud, Abiud the father of Eliakim, and Eliakim the father of Azor.

¹⁴ Azor was the father of Zadok, Zadok the father of Achim, and Achim the father of Eliud.

¹⁵ Eliud was the father of Eleazar, Eleazar the father of Matthan, and Matthan the father of Jacob.

¹⁶ Jacob was the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, by whom Jesus was born, who is called Christ.

¹⁷ All the generations from Abraham to David were fourteen generations, from David to the deportation to Babylon fourteen generations, and from the deportation to Babylon to the Christ fourteen generations.

¹⁸ The birth of Jesus Christ happened in the following way. His mother, Mary, was engaged to marry Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant by the Holy Spirit. ¹⁹ But Joseph, her husband, was a righteous man and did not want to publicly disgrace her, so he intended to divorce her quietly.

²⁰ As he thought about these things, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, "Joseph son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, because the one who is conceived in her is conceived by the Holy Spirit. ²¹ She will bear a son, and you will call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins."

²² Now all this happened to fulfill what was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying, ²³ "Behold, the virgin will become pregnant and will bear a son, and they will call his name Immanuel"—which being translated is "God with us."

²⁴ Joseph got up from his sleep and did as the angel of the Lord commanded him, and he took her as his wife. ²⁵ But he did not know her until she gave birth to a son. Then he called his name Jesus.

Matthew Commentary

1:1-17

Why did Matthew write about Jesus’ ancestors?

[1:1]

Matthew wrote about Jesus’ ancestors so people would know that he rule Israel because he was a descendant of King David.

See: Covenant with David; Messiah (Christ); Ancestor and Descendant (Fathers, Forefathers, Patriarchs); Son of David

What does the name, “Jesus,” mean?

[1:1]

“Jesus” was the Greek form of the Hebrew name “Joshua.” The name “Joshua” meant “God saves.” Other men of the Israelites also had this name, but Jesus was unlike them because he was also the “son of David.” The title “son of David” was also a name for the messiah.

See: Messiah (Christ); Save (Salvation, Saved from Sins); Son of David

1:18-25

What did it mean “to be pregnant by the Holy Spirit”?

[1:18, 1:20]

Scholars think that “to be pregnant by the Holy Spirit” meant that the Holy Spirit caused Mary to become pregnant. It was a miracle.

See: Holy Spirit; Miracle; Incarnation; Virgin

What did it mean that Joseph was a “righteous man”?

[1:19]

When Matthew wrote that Joseph was a “righteous man” it meant that he was a man that obeyed the Law of Moses. Joseph thought that Mary must have committed adultery in order for her to become pregnant. Joseph thought he should end his engagement with Mary because this was taught in the Law of Moses. Other scholars think Matthew wanted people to know that Joseph was a righteous man because he wanted to end his engagement with Mary in a quiet way, so as not to dishonor Mary.

See: Righteous (Righteousness); Adultery; Law of Moses

What did the words, “disgrace her publicly” mean in Joseph’s day.

[1:19]

In ancient Israel, when a woman was disgraced publicly, she was brought to court because she did something wrong. This would have caused great shame and embarrassment for Mary. Perhaps she would also have been punished.

See: Ancient Trials (Lawsuit); Punish (Punishment)

What did Matthew mean with the words, “fulfill what was spoken”?

[1:22]

When Matthew wrote the words, “fulfill what was spoken,” he was speaking about prophecies being fulfilled. It was prophesied that Mary would become pregnant, and Jesus would be born.

See: Isaiah 7:14 See: Fulfill (Fulfillment); Prophecy (Prophesy)

What was meant by “he took her as his wife” when Matthew spoke about Joseph and Mary?

[1:24]

That Joseph took Mary as his wife meant that Mary became Joseph’s wife and he took her into his home. This showed everyone that Joseph accepted Mary as his wife.

Matthew 1:1

The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ

"This is the list of the ancestors of Jesus Christ"

Jesus Christ, son of David, son of Abraham

"Jesus Christ, a descendant of David, who was a descendant of Abraham"

son of David

Sometimes the phrase "son of David" is used as a title, but here it seems to be used only to identify Jesus's ancestry.

Matthew 1:2

Abraham was the father of Isaac

"Abraham became the father of Isaac" or "Abraham had a son Isaac" or "Abraham had a son named Isaac." There are different ways you could translate this. Whichever way you translate it here, it would be best to translate it the same way throughout the list of Jesus's ancestors.

Isaac the father ... Jacob the father

Here the word "was" is understood. Alternate translation: "Isaac was the father ... Jacob was the father"

Matthew 1:3

Perez the father ... Hezron the father

"Perez was the father ... Hezron was the father"

Matthew 1:4

Amminadab the father ... Nahshon the father

"Amminadab was the father ... Nahshon was the father"

Matthew 1:5

Salmon was the father of Boaz by Rahab

"Salmon and Rahab were the parents of Boaz"

Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth

"Boaz and Ruth were the parents of Obed"

Matthew 1:6

David was the father of Solomon by the wife of Uriah

"David was the father of Solomon, and Solomon's mother was Uriah's wife" or "David and the wife of Uriah were the parents of Solomon"

the wife of Uriah

"the widow of Uriah." Solomon was born after Uriah died.

Matthew 1:7

Rehoboam the father of Abijah, Abijah the father of Asa

"Rehoboam was the father of Abijah, and Abijah was the father of Asa"

Matthew 1:8

Joram

This man was called both Joram and Jehoram in the Old Testament.

Matthew 1:10

Amon

Sometimes this is translated "Amos."

Matthew 1:11

Josiah was an ancestor of Jechoniah

"Josiah was a grandfather of Jechoniah"

at the time of the deportation to Babylon

"when they were forced to move to Babylon" or "when the Babylonians conquered them and made them go live in Babylon."

Babylon

Here this means the country of Babylon, not just the city of Babylon.

Matthew 1:16

Mary, by whom Jesus was born

"Mary, who gave birth to Jesus"

who is called Christ

"whom people call Christ"

Matthew 1:18

His mother, Mary, was engaged to marry Joseph

"his mother, Mary, was promised in marriage to Joseph" or "His mother, Mary, was going to marry Joseph"

His mother, Mary, was engaged

Jesus was not already born when Mary was engaged to Joseph. Alternate translation: "Mary, who would be the mother of Jesus, was engaged"

before they came together

"before they got married." This may refer to Mary and Joseph sleeping together. Alternate translation: "before they had slept together"

she was found to be pregnant

"they realized that she was pregnant"

pregnant by the Holy Spirit

The power of the Holy Spirit had enabled Mary to have a baby before she had slept with a man.

Matthew 1:19

Joseph, her husband

"Joseph, who was supposed to marry Mary"

to divorce her quietly

"to quietly cancel their plans to get married"

Matthew 1:20

appeared to him in a dream

"came to him while Joseph was dreaming"

son of David

Here "son" means "descendant."

the one who is conceived in her is conceived by the Holy Spirit

"the Holy Spirit caused Mary to become pregnant with this child"

Matthew 1:21

you will call his name Jesus

"you must name him Jesus" or "you must give him the name Jesus."

for he will save

You may add a footnote that says, "The name 'Jesus' means 'the Lord saves.'"

Matthew 1:22

all this happened

The angel is no longer speaking. Matthew is now explaining the importance of what the angel said.

what was spoken by the Lord through the prophet

"what the Lord told the prophet to write long ago"

the prophet

"the prophet Isaiah"

Matthew 1:23

Behold ... Immanuel

Here Matthew quotes the prophet Isaiah.

Behold, the virgin will become pregnant

"Look, the virgin will become pregnant" or "Pay attention. The virgin will conceive"

Immanuel"—which being translated is, "God with us."

"Immanuel." This name means 'God with us.'"

Matthew 1:24

he took her as his wife

"he married Mary"

Matthew 1:25

he did not know her

"he did not have sexual relations with her"

to a son

"to a male baby" or "to her son." Make sure it is clear that Joseph is not portrayed as the actual father.

Chapter 2

¹ After Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, learned men from the east arrived in Jerusalem saying, ² "Where is he who was born King of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him." ³ When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.

⁴ Herod brought together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, and he asked them, "Where is the Christ to be born?" ⁵ They said to him, "In Bethlehem of Judea, for this is what was written by the prophet:

⁶ 'But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,

are not the least among the rulers of Judah,

for from you will come one who rules,

who will shepherd my people Israel.'"

⁷ Then Herod secretly called the learned men to ask them exactly what time the star had appeared. ⁸ He sent them to Bethlehem, saying, "Go and search carefully for the young child. When you have found him, bring me a report so that I also may come and worship him."

⁹ After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star that they had seen in the east went before them until it came and stood still over where the young child was. ¹⁰ When they saw the star, they rejoiced with very great joy.

¹¹ They went into the house and saw the young child with Mary his mother. They fell down and worshiped him. They opened their treasures and offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. ¹² God warned them in a dream not to return to Herod, so they departed to their own country by another way.

¹³ After they had departed, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, "Get up, take the young child and his mother, and flee to Egypt. Remain there until I tell you, for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him." ¹⁴ That night Joseph rose and took the young child and his mother and departed into Egypt. ¹⁵ He remained there until the death of Herod. This fulfilled what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying, "Out of Egypt I have called my Son."

¹⁶ Then Herod, when he saw that he had been mocked by the learned men, was very angry. He sent and killed all the male children that were in Bethlehem and in all that region who were two years old and under, according to the time that he had determined exactly from the learned men.

¹⁷ Then was fulfilled what had been spoken through Jeremiah the prophet, saying,

¹⁸ "A voice was heard in Ramah,

weeping and great mourning,

Rachel weeping for her children,

and she refused to be comforted,

because they were no more."

¹⁹ When Herod died, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt and said, ²⁰ "Get up and take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the child's life are dead." ²¹ Joseph rose, took the child and his mother, and came into the land of Israel.

²² But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning over Judea in the place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. After God warned him in a dream, he left for the region of Galilee ²³ and went and lived in a city called Nazareth. This fulfilled what had been spoken through the prophets, that he would be called a Nazarene.

Matthew 2

2:1-12

Where was Bethlehem?

[2:1]

See Map: Bethlehem

What were the days of Herod?

[2:1]

The days of Herod was the time when Herod the Great ruled the Jewish people. Herod ruled as a Jewish king when Jesus was born.

See: King Herod

Who were the learned men from the east?

[2:1]

The learned men were most likely scholars from Babylon who studied how the stars moved. In ancient times, people in the Middle East were often guided by how the stars appeared in the sky. Matthew wrote about the visit of these men so that people would be amazed. The birth of Jesus was more than just good news for the people in Israel. It was good news for the entire world. God guided Gentile scholars to see Jesus.

See: Babylon

See Map: Babylon

Who was “the king of the Jews”?

[2:2]

The term “king of the Jews” is a title which the Gentiles often used to speak about the messiah.

See: Messiah (Christ)

What was the “star in the east”?

[2:2]

Matthew wrote about a “star in the east.” This was a star people could see in the sky. The scholars lived west of Israel. These men studied the stars in the sky. Therefore, they saw the light to the east of them. They followed the star in some way. It took them to Bethlehem. The believed star would bring them to something they wanted to see. Why was all Jerusalem troubled? Matthew wrote that Herod was disturbed because of the news he heard. These scholars reported that the messiah had been born. Herod was afraid of this because the messiah was the king of the Jews. Herod believed there could only be one “King of the Jews” (See: Matthew 2:1). Herod was afraid that the people would no longer want him to be king. The people of Jerusalem were afraid that Herod would become angry and hurt them.

See: King Herod; Messiah (Christ)

What is a chief priest?

[2:4]

See: Chief Priest

What is a scribe?

[2:4]

See: Scribe

What is the Christ?

[2:4]

See: Messiah (Christ)

Why did Matthew write the same thing Micah wrote?

[2:5]

Matthew wrote the same thing Micah wrote (see: Micah 5:2). Micah said that the messiah would be born in Bethlehem.

See: Messiah (Christ)

How was Bethlehem least among the rulers of Judah?

[2:6]

Matthew and Micah wrote that Bethlehem were least among the rulers of Judah. Many cities were greater than Bethlehem. Bethlehem was a small town. People did not think the messiah would come from a place like Bethlehem.

See Map: Bethlehem; Judah

How old was Jesus when the learned men came to visit him?

[2:7]

Matthew does not say how old Jesus was when the learned men came. When Herod learned about the birth of Jesus he ordered the killing of all male children under two years of age living near Bethlehem. Jesus was younger than this.

Did Herod want to worship the young child?

[2:8]

Herod directed the learned men to go to Bethlehem to “search thoroughly” for the young child. He wanted them to talk to people in Bethlehem. However, Herod did not want to worship Jesus. Instead, he wanted these men to find Jesus for him. He wanted to kill Jesus so he could continue to rule Israel.

See: King Herod

What were the gifts the learned men brought to Jesus?

[2:11]

In ancient times, someone gave a gift to a person that was greater than them in order to honor the other person (see: Genesis 14:17-20 and Hebrews 7:1-7). The gifts which the learned men gave to Jesus were gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The gifts were very valuable and honored Jesus who they believed was a king. These gifts were very expensive.

Why did the learned men return to their country another way?

[2:12]

The learned men returned to their country in a different way than they came to Israel. They did not want Herod to be angry and kill them. God warned them by giving them a dream.

2:13-15

What is an angel of the Lord?

[2:13]

See: Angel

Would a Jew go to Egypt?

[2:13]

Egypt was about 100 kilometers south of Bethlehem. During this period, Egypt was not ruled by Herod. However, Egypt and Israel were part of the Roman Empire. At this time, Jews would often travel to Egypt. Many Jews lived in Egypt. Because there were so many Jews in Egypt, a Jewish temple had been built for them in Egypt. Because Herod did not rule Egypt, it was safe for Mary and Joseph to stay there.

See Map: Bethlehem; Egypt; Israel; Roman Empire

Why did Matthew write the same thing Hosea wrote?

[2:15]

Matthew wrote the same thing Hosea wrote (see: Hosea 11:1). Jesus fulfilled the prophecy Hosea made about the messiah.

See: Fulfill (Fulfillment); Prophecy (Prophesy) ; Messiah (Christ)

2:16-23

What are the land of Israel and the land of Judea?

[2:20, 2:21, 2:22]

When Matthew wrote about the land of Judea and the land of Israel, he was talking about the same place.

Why was Joseph afraid of Herod Archelaus?

[2:22]

Herod Archeaus was the son of Herod the Great. He put many people into prison and killed many people. This is why Joseph was afraid of him.

See: King Herod

How was Jesus a Nazarene?

[2:23]

Joseph and Mary took Jesus to the town of Nazareth to live. Jesus was a Nazarene.

Matthew 2:1

Bethlehem of Judea

"the town of Bethlehem in the province of Judea"

in the days of Herod the king

"when Herod the Great was king there"

learned men from the east

"knowledgable men from the east"

Matthew 2:2

Where is he who was born King of the Jews?

The men knew from studying the stars that the one who would become king had been born. They were trying to learn where he was. Alternate translation: "A baby who will become the king of the Jews has been born. Where is he?"

his star

"the star that tells about him" or "the star that is associated with his birth"

in the east

Possible meanings are 1) "as it came up in the east" or 2) "while we were in the east"

worship

Possible meanings are 1) they intended to worship the baby as divine, or 2) they wanted to honor him as a human king. If your language has a word that includes both meanings, you should consider using it here.

Matthew 2:3

he was troubled

"he was worried."

all Jerusalem

"many of the people in Jerusalem were also troubled"

Matthew 2:5

In Bethlehem of Judea

"In the town of Bethlehem in the province of Judea"

this is what was written by the prophet

"this is what the prophet wrote"

Matthew 2:6

General Information:

The chief priests and scribes of the people quote the prophet Micah to show that the Christ would be born in Bethlehem.

you, Bethlehem, ... are not the least among the rulers of Judah

"you, people of Bethlehem, ... your town is among the most important towns in Judah"

who will shepherd my people Israel

"who will lead my people Israel as a shepherd leads his sheep"

Matthew 2:7

men to ask them exactly what time the star had appeared.

"called the men, and he asked them, 'When exactly did this star appear?'"

Matthew 2:8

bring me a report

"report back to me" or "let me know"

Matthew 2:9

went before them

"guided them" or "led them"

stood still over

"stopped over"

where the young child was

"the place where the young child was staying"

Matthew 2:11

They fell down and worshiped him

"They knelt down and put their faces close to the ground." They did this to honor Jesus.

their treasures

Here "treasures" refers to the boxes or bags they used to carry their treasures. "the containers that held their treasures"

Matthew 2:12

in a dream not to return to Herod, so

"in a dream saying, 'Do not go back to King Herod.' So"

Matthew 2:13

appeared to Joseph in a dream

"came to Joseph while he was dreaming"

until I tell you

"until I tell you it is safe to come back"

Matthew 2:15

General Information:

Matthew quotes the prophet Hosea to show that the Christ would spend time in Egypt.

He remained

"They remained"

until the death of Herod

"what the Lord had said through the prophet; he said" or "what the Lord had told the prophet to say; he said"

Out of Egypt I have called my Son

"I have called my Son out of Egypt"

Matthew 2:16

he had been mocked by the learned men

"the learned men had tricked him"

He sent and killed all the male children

"He sent soldiers to kill all the baby boys"

according to the time that he had determined exactly from the learned men

based on what he discovered from the learned men about exactly when the star had appeared

Matthew 2:17

Then was fulfilled

"This fulfilled" or "Herod's actions fulfilled"

what had been spoken through Jeremiah the prophet

"what the Lord spoke long ago through the prophet Jeremiah"

Matthew 2:18

A voice was heard

"People heard a voice" or "There was a loud sound"

Rachel weeping for her children

Rachel lived many years before this time. This prophecy shows Rachel, who has died, weeping for her descendants.

she refused to be comforted

"no one could comfort her" or "she did not let anyone comfort her"

because they were no more

"because they were dead"

Matthew 2:19

behold

This word marks the beginning of another event in the larger story.

Matthew 2:20

those who sought the child's life

"those who were looking for the child in order to kill him"

Matthew 2:22

But when he heard

"But when Joseph heard"

Archelaus

This is the name of Herod's son.

Matthew 2:23

what had been spoken through the prophets

"what the Lord spoke long ago through the prophets"

he would be called a Nazarene

"people would say that the Christ is a Nazarene"

Chapter 3

¹ In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea saying, ² "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near." ³ For this is he who was spoken of by Isaiah the prophet, saying,

"The voice of one calling out in the wilderness,

'Make ready the way of the Lord,

make his paths straight.'"

⁴ Now John wore clothing of camel's hair and a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey. ⁵ Then Jerusalem, all Judea, and all the region around the Jordan River went out to him. ⁶ They were baptized by him in the Jordan River, confessing their sins.

⁷ But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to him for baptism, he said to them, "You offspring of vipers, who warned you to flee from the wrath that is coming? ⁸ Bear fruit worthy of repentance. ⁹ Do not think of saying among yourselves, 'We have Abraham for our father.' For I say to you that God is able to raise up children for Abraham even out of these stones.

¹⁰ Already the ax has been placed against the root of the trees. So every tree that does not produce good fruit is chopped down and thrown into the fire. ¹¹ I baptize you with water for repentance. But he who comes after me is mightier than I, and I am not worthy even to carry his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. ¹² His winnowing fork is in his hand to thoroughly clear off his threshing floor and to gather his wheat into the storehouse. But he will burn up the chaff with fire that can never be put out."

¹³ Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan River to be baptized by John. ¹⁴ But John kept trying to stop him, saying, "I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?" ¹⁵ Jesus responded and said to him, "Permit it now, for it is right for us to fulfill all righteousness." Then John permitted him.

¹⁶ After he was baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him. He saw the Spirit of God coming down like a dove and resting upon him. ¹⁷ Behold, a voice came out of the heavens saying, "This is my beloved Son. I am very pleased with him."

Matthew 3

3:1-12

Why did John the Baptist preach in the wilderness?

[3:1]

John the Baptist belonged to and spoke for God. He lived outside of the cities like a prophet from the Old Testament. John fulfilled the promise of the prophet Isaiah (Isaiah 40:3) that said that someone from the wilderness would tell the people that Jesus was coming. Many Jews believed that a deliverer would come from the desert to free them from their Roman oppressors (Ezekiel 20:33–38; Hosea 2:14–23).

See: Preach (Preacher); Prophet; Old Testament (Law and Prophets); Fulfill (Fulfillment)

Why did John say “repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near”?

[3:2]

John told the people to “repent” or “turn away from” (μετανοέω/g3340) their sinful thoughts and actions. By doing so they would be prepared for the Messiah who was about to come.

See: Repent (Repentance); Kingdom of God; Sin

Why did the author of Matthew write the same thing Isaiah wrote?

[3:3]

The author of Matthew wrote the same thing Isaiah wrote (see: Isaiah 40:3). The ancient Jews disobeyed God. God punished the Israelites and sent them to Babylon. God promised that he would forgive them and return them to their home in Israel (see: Isaiah 40:1-2). Matthew said that Isaiah also wrote about John the Baptist because John’s message announced the coming of Jesus the messiah.

See: Punish (Punishment); Messiah (Christ)

See Map: Babylon

Why did John live in the way that he lived?

[3:4]

John wore clothes made of camel’s hair and a belt made of leather. He ate locusts and wild honey. John lived in this way to show that he was a prophet like Elijah (See: 2 Kings 1:8). He lived simply and avoided luxuries in order to prepare God’s people for the coming of Jesus the messiah.

See: Prophet; Messiah (Christ); People of God

Why did John baptize people?

[3:6]

John prepared people for the messiah to arrive. He baptized in water those people who repented of their sins (3:6).

See: Baptize (Baptism); Confess (Confession); Sin; Messiah (Christ); Repent (Repentance)

Why did the Pharisees and Sadducees come to the baptism?

[3:7]

The Pharisees and Sadducees were religious and political leaders among the Jewish people. Some scholars think that the Pharisees and Sadducees to whom John spoke were coming to be baptized, too. They likely came to the baptism to learn about the things John taught. John was attracting many followers, and people were coming to him to be baptized. The Jewish leaders worried about people following John the Baptist.

See: Pharisees; Sadducees; Baptize (Baptism)

Why did John rebuke the Jewish leaders?

[3:7]

John understood that the Pharisees and Sadducees came to learn why John served God in the way he did. They did not want to repent of their sins. If the Pharisees and Sadducees actually came to be baptized it is likely that John believed they just wanted people to see them and think they honored God.

See: Pharisees; Sadducees; Repent (Repentance); Baptize (Baptism)

How does someone have Abraham as their father?

[3:9]

The Pharisees and Sadducees were the descendants of Abraham. However, they did not trust God in the way Abraham did.

See: Pharisees; Sadducees; Ancestor and Descendant (Fathers, Forefathers, Patriarchs)

Why did John talk about a tree?

[3:10]

John wrote about fruit and a tree (see: Matthew 3:10). This was a metaphor. He wanted people to know that Israel was about to be judged. John wanted them to know that God would quickly judge Israel. The Old Testament often used the axe as a symbol of judgement (See: Isaiah 10:15). God was often portrayed there as expecting good fruit from His people (see: Isaiah 5:2; Jeremiah 2:21; 11:16-17).

See: Metaphor; Judge (Judgment); Symbol; Fruit (Metaphor)

Who did John talk about when he talked about someone greater than him?

[3:11]

John spoke to a people group who wanted people to honor him. John wanted people to know that he needed to honor the messiah and he was unworthy to untie his sandals (See: Matthew 3:11). In ancient Israel, only servants untied the sandals of other people.

How will Jesus baptize people with the Holy Spirit and fire?

[3:11]

Some scholars think John’s was a prophecy. This was fulfilled by Christians and non-Christians. Non-Christians do not repent and God will judge them. Other scholars think the promise of fire was about Christians. The Holy Spirit purifies Christians.

See: Hebrews 12:29

See: Prophecy (Prophesy) ; Fulfill (Fulfillment); Repent (Repentance); Judge (Judgment); Fire; Holy Spirit; Purify (Pure)

Why did John talk about a winnowing fork?

[3:12]

John talked about a winnowing fork because this tool was used by farmers in the field to separate the wheat from the chaff. Field workers would use this big fork to toss the harvested wheat into the wind. The heavy kernels of wheat would then fall to the ground, and the chaff would blow away. The chaff was often burned by fire. John used this as a metaphor. John wanted people to know that the Holy Spirit makes Christians clean.

See: Holy Spirit; Clean and Unclean

3:13-17

Where were Galilee and the Jordan River?

[3:13]

See Map: Galilee; Jordan River

Why did Jesus want to be baptized by John?

[3:13]

Jesus told John that John needed to baptize him. Jesus wanted John to baptize him in order “for us to fulfill all righteousness.”

See: Righteous (Righteousness); Baptize (Baptism); Fulfill (Fulfillment)

Why did John think that he should not baptize Jesus?

[3:14]

John said that he needed to be baptized by Jesus. John believed that Jesus was greater than him. He knew Jesus did not need to repent of his sins. He did not understand that Jesus was baptized for a different reason than the reason John baptized people.

See: Baptize (Baptism); Repent (Repentance); Sin

Why did the Spirit come down on Jesus like a dove?

[3:16]

Many times in the Old Testament, human authors recorded the presence of doves in their stories. Doves were a sign of peace and new life.

See: Genesis 1:2; 8:8-12

See: Sign

Why did the voice from heaven say “this is my beloved son”?

[3:17]

God said that Jesus was his beloved son. Matthew wanted people to know that Jesus is holy and Jesus is God.

See: Son of God; Holy (Holiness, Set Apart); Jesus is God

Matthew 3:1

In those days

"In those times" or "Some years later"

Matthew 3:2

the kingdom of heaven is near

"our God in heaven will soon show himself to be king"

Matthew 3:3

For this is he who was spoken of by Isaiah the prophet, saying

"For John is the one Isaiah the prophet spoke about when he said"

The voice of one calling out in the wilderness

"The voice of one calling out in the wilderness is heard" or "They hear the sound of someone calling out in the wilderness"

Make ready the way of the Lord, make his paths straight

"Make the road ready for the Lord, prepare for him to come."

Matthew 3:4

wore clothing of camel's hair and a leather belt around his waist

This clothing symbolizes that John is a prophet like the prophets from long ago, especially the prophet Elijah.

Matthew 3:5

Then Jerusalem, all Judea, and all the region

"Then very may people from Jerusalem, Judea, and that region"

Matthew 3:6

They

This refers to the people coming from Jerusalem, Judea, and the region around the Jordan River.

They were baptized by him ... River, confessing their sins

"John baptized them ... River after they confessed their sins"

Matthew 3:7

You offspring of vipers, who

"You evil poisonous snakes! Who" or "You are evil like poisonous snakes! Who"

who warned you to flee from the wrath that is coming?

John rebukes the Pharisees and Sadducees. Alternate translation: "you cannot flee from God's coming punishment like this." or "do not think that you can flee from God's wrath just because I baptize you."

flee from the wrath that is coming

"run away from the punishment that is coming" or "escape because God is about to punish you"

Matthew 3:8

Bear fruit worthy of repentance

“Let your actions show that you have truly repented”

Matthew 3:9

We have Abraham for our father

"Abraham is our ancestor" or "We are descendants of Abraham." The Jewish leaders thought that God would not punish them since they were descendants of Abraham.

God is able to raise up children for Abraham even out of these stones

"God can make even these stones become children of Abraham"

Matthew 3:10

Already the ax has been placed against the root of the trees. So every tree that does not produce good fruit is chopped down and thrown into the fire

"God has his axe and he is ready to cut down and burn any tree that does not produce good fruit" or "As a person gets his axe ready to cut down and burn a tree that does not produce good fruit, God is ready to punish you for your sin"

Matthew 3:11

for repentance

"to show that you have repented"

he who comes after me

John was speaking about the Christ, although he probably did not know who that was.

is mightier than I

"is more important than I am"

He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire

This means John's baptism only symbolically cleanses people of their sins. The baptism by Holy Spirit and fire will truly cleanse people of their sins. If possible, use the word "baptize" in your translation to keep the comparison to John's baptism.

Matthew 3:12

His winnowing fork is in his hand

"He is like a man whose winnowing fork is in his hand"

winnowing fork

This is a tool for tossing wheat up into the air to separate the wheat grain from the chaff. The heavier grain falls back down and the unwanted chaff is blown away by the wind.

his threshing floor

"his floor" or "the ground where he separates the grain from the chaff"

fire that can never be put out

"fire that no one can put out" or "fire that will never burn out"

Matthew 3:13

to be baptized by John

"so John could baptize him"

Matthew 3:14

I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?

"I need you to baptize me, yet you want me to baptize you."

Matthew 3:15

John permitted him

"John allowed Jesus to be baptized" or "John agreed to baptize Jesus"

Matthew 3:16

behold

The word "behold" here alerts us to pay attention to the surprising information that follows.

the heavens were opened to him

"Jesus saw the sky open" or "God opened the heavens to Jesus"

coming down like a dove

Possible meanings are 1) the Spirit was in the form of a dove or 2) the Spirit came down gently, the way a dove would.

Matthew 3:17

a voice came out of the heavens saying

"A speaker said from heaven" or "God said from heaven"

Son

This refers to Jesus, the Son of God. It is best to translate “Son” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human son.

Chapter 4

¹ Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. ² When he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. ³ The tempter came and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become bread."

⁴ But Jesus answered and said to him, "It is written, 'Man does not live on bread alone, but by every word that comes out of the mouth of God.'"

⁵ Then the devil took him into the holy city and set him on the highest point of the temple building, ⁶ and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down, for it is written,

'He will command his angels to take care of you,'

and

'They will carry you in their hands,

so that you will not hit your foot against a stone.'"

⁷ Jesus said to him, "Again it is written, 'You must not test the Lord your God.'"

⁸ Again, the devil took him up to a very high hill and showed him all the kingdoms of the world along with all their glory. ⁹ He said to him, "All these things I will give you, if you fall down and worship me."

¹⁰ Then Jesus said to him, "Go away from here, Satan! For it is written, 'You will worship the Lord your God, and you will serve only him.'"

¹¹ Then the devil left him, and behold, angels came and served him.

¹² Now when Jesus heard that John had been handed over, he withdrew into Galilee. ¹³ He left Nazareth and went and lived in Capernaum, which is by the Sea of Galilee in the territories of Zebulun and Naphtali.

¹⁴ This happened to fulfill what was said by Isaiah the prophet:

¹⁵ "The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali,

toward the sea, beyond the Jordan,

Galilee of the Gentiles!

¹⁶ The people who sat in darkness

have seen a great light,

and to those who sat in the region and shadow of death,

upon them has a light arisen."

¹⁷ From that time Jesus began to preach and say, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near."

¹⁸ As he was walking by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. ¹⁹ Jesus said to them, "Come, follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." ²⁰ Immediately they left the nets and followed him.

²¹ As Jesus was going on from there he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and John his brother. They were in the boat with Zebedee their father mending their nets. He called them, ²² and they immediately left the boat and their father and followed him.

²³ Jesus went about in all of Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom and healing every kind of disease and sickness among the people. ²⁴ The news about him went out into all of Syria, and the people brought to him all those who suffered from various diseases and pains, those who were possessed by demons, the epileptics, and the paralytics. Jesus healed them. ²⁵ Large crowds followed him from Galilee, the Decapolis, Jerusalem, and Judea, and from beyond the Jordan.

Matthew 4

4:1-11

How was Jesus led by the Holy Spirit?

[4:1]

Jesus was led by the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit descended like a dove and rested on Jesus in Matthew 3:16. The Holy Spirit led Jesus into the wilderness to be tested to show Jesus completely obey God.

See: Holy Spirit; Test

Where was the wilderness?

[4:1]

The wilderness was not far from where John was baptizing. The wilderness area had few or no people living in it. There was not much food and water in the wilderness.

See: Baptize (Baptism); Wilderness

How was someone tempted?

[4:1]

The Greek word which Matthew used for “tempted” can mean “testing.” When Jesus was tempted, he completely obeyed God.

See: Tempt (Temptation); Test

Who is the devil?

[4:1]

See: Satan (The Devil)

What is fasting?

[4:2]

See: Fasting

What is the Son of God?

[4:3]

See: Son of God

Why did Jesus say that “man shall not live on bread alone”?

[4:4]

When Jesus said, “Man shall not live on bread alone,” he said the same thing Moses wrote (see: Deuteronomy 8:3). God gave manna to the people who followed Moses through the wilderness. This was a miracle which God used to teach the people that the word of God is more important than food.

See: Manna; Word of God; Miracle

What was the holy city?

[4:5]

The holy city is Jerusalem. It was a city that was different than other cities. It was the place where people worshipped God.

See: Holy (Holiness, Set Apart); Zion; Worship

What was the temple?

[4:5]

See: Temple

Why did Satan say, God “will command his angels to take care of you”?

[4:6]

When Satan said that God “will command his angels to take care of you,” he said the same things written in Psalm 91:11-12. He told Jesus that if he were to throw himself down from the highest place of the temple, God would protect him. Satan wanted Jesus to forget that God the Father cared for Jesus.

See: Satan (The Devil); Angel; Temple; God the Father

Why did Jesus tell Satan, “You must not test the Lord your God”?

[4:7]

Jesus told Satan, “You must not test the Lord your God” because he understood that Satan wanted Jesus to not trust God the Father and to disobey God the Father. Jesus only wanted to serve and obey God the Father.

See: Satan (The Devil); Test; Lord; God the Father

Why did Satan want Jesus to worship him?

[4:9]

Satan wanted Jesus to forget about his loyalty to God the Father. If Jesus became loyal to Satan, then Jesus could have the entire world as his reward. Satan wanted Jesus to disobey God.

See: Satan (The Devil); God the Father

Why did Jesus say that someone should only worship God?

[4:10]

Jesus said that someone should only worship God because God alone was worthy to be worshipped.

See: Worship

4:12-22

How had John been handed over?

[4:12]

John had been “handed over.” That is, John was arrested.

Where were Nazareth, Capernaum, Zebulun, and Naphtali?

[4:13]

See Map: Galilee; Nazareth; Capernaum; Zebulun; Naphtali

How was Isaiah’s prophecy fulfilled?

[4:14]

Isaiah’s prophecy was fulfilled when Jesus moved from Nazareth to Capernaum (see: Isaiah 9:1,2).

See: Prophecy (Prophesy) ; Fulfill (Fulfillment)

See Map: Galilee; Nazareth; Capernaum

Why did Jesus preach, “repent for the kingdom of heaven is near”?

[4:17]

Jesus preached, “Repent for the kingdom of heaven is near.” He was preaching the same thing John the Baptist preached.

See: Preach (Preacher); Repent (Repentance); Kingdom of God

Where was the Sea of Galilee?

[4:18]

See Map: Sea of Galilee

How will Peter and Andrew become “fishers of men”?

[4:19]

When Jesus said that Peter and Andrew would become “fishers of men,” this was a metaphor. He wanted them to know that they would help other people to believe in Jesus and obey Jesus.

See: Disciple; Metaphor

Why did Peter and Andrew immediately follow Jesus?

[4:20]

Peter and Andrew left their jobs fishing to become disciples of Jesus. Matthew wrote that they immediately left their nets to follow Jesus. Some scholars think that Peter and Andrew had heard about Jesus before this. Other scholars do not think they heard about Jesus before this.

See: Disciple

Why were James and John mending their nets?

[4:21]

James and John mended their nets. Fishermen always mended their nets after they finished fishing because the nets would have holes or garbage in them. James and John were getting their nets ready so that they could fish again later or the next day.

Advice to translators: When someone mended their fishing net, they fixed any holes in the net.

What was a synagogue?

[4:23]

See: Synagogue

How was someone possessed by demons?

[4:24]

See: Demon Possession (Casting Out Demons)

What is an epileptic?

[4:24]

The word translated “epiliptic” is a word which meant “moon-struck.” In ancient times, a popular belief was that when a person had seizures, his health was under attack by the moon. Jesus healed the epileptic person. He controlled the moon.

Advice to translators: A seizure is a type of illness that causes someone to shake violently and they cannot control it.

What was a paralytic?

[4:24]

A paralytic was a person who had no control over his body.

What was the Decapolis?

[4:25]

The Decapolis was a group of ten cities in ancient Syria. People in these cities spoke Greek and Latin. They were great cities in the Roman empire.

See Map: Decapolis; Syria

Why does Matthew speak of Galilee and the Decapolis, Jerusalem and Judea, and from beyond the Jordan?

[4:25]

Matthew said that great crowds followed Jesus from Galilee and the Decapolis, Jerusalem and Judea, and from beyond the Jordan river. Many different groups of people lived in these places. They spoke many different languages. Matthew wants us to know that many different groups of people loved Jesus. He also wants us to know that Jesus welcomed all people to follow him.

See Map: Galilee; Decapolis; Jerusalem; Judea; Jordan River

Matthew 4:1

Jesus was led up by the Spirit

"the Spirit led Jesus"

to be tempted by the devil

"so the devil could tempt Jesus"

Matthew 4:2

he had fasted ... he was hungry

These refer to Jesus.

forty days and forty nights

"40 days"

Matthew 4:3

The tempter

These words refer to the same being as "the devil" (as in verse 1).

If you are the Son of God, command

"You are the Son of God, so you can command" Alternate translation: "Prove that you are the Son of God by commanding"

the Son of God

This refers to Jesus, the Son of God. It is best to translate “Son” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human son.

command these stones to become bread.

"say to these stones, 'Become bread.'"

bread

"food"

Matthew 4:4

It is written

"The scriptures say" or "God said in the scriptures"

Man does not live on bread alone

This implies that there is something more important to life than food.

but by every word that comes out of the mouth of God

"but by every word that God speaks" or "but by listening to everything that God says"

Matthew 4:6

the Son of God

This refers to Jesus, the Son of God. It is best to translate “Son” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human son.

throw yourself down

"let yourself fall to the ground" or "jump down"

'He will command his angels to take care of you,' and

"'God will say to his angels, "Take care of him,"' and" or "'God will command his angels to take care of you,' and"

They will carry you

"The angels will hold you"

Matthew 4:7

You must not test

"One should not test" or "No person should test"

Matthew 4:8

Again, the devil

"Next, the devil"

Matthew 4:9

He said to him

"The devil said to Jesus"

All these things I will give you

"I will give you all these things."

fall down

"put your face near the ground." This was a common action to show that a person was worshiping.

Matthew 4:10

For it is written

"For Moses also wrote in the scriptures"

Matthew 4:11

behold

The word "behold" here alerts us to pay attention to the important new information that follows.

Matthew 4:12

John had been handed over

"the king had handed John over to the prison" or "the king had arrested John"

Matthew 4:13

in the territories of Zebulun and Naphtali

"Zebulun" and "Naphtali" are the names of the tribes that lived in these territories many years earlier before foreigners took control of the land of Israel.

Matthew 4:14

what was said

"what God said"

Matthew 4:15

General Information:

Matthew quotes the prophet Isaiah to show that Jesus's ministry in Galilee was a fulfillment of prophecy.

toward the sea

This is the Sea of Galilee.

Matthew 4:16

The people who sat in darkness have seen a great light

Here "darkness"means not knowing the truth about God. And "light" is God's true message

The people who sat

"In the territory of Zebulun and Naphtali ... where many Gentiles live, the people who sat"

to those who sat in the region and shadow of death, upon them has a light arisen

Here "those who sat in the region and shadow of death" represents those who did not know God. These people were in danger of dying and being separated from God forever.

Matthew 4:17

the kingdom of heaven is near

"our God in heaven will soon show himself to be king"

Matthew 4:18

casting a net into the sea

"throwing a net into the water to catch fish"

Matthew 4:19

Come, follow me

"Be my disciples"

I will make you fishers of men

"I will teach you to gather men to me like you used to gather fish"

Matthew 4:21

He called them

"Jesus called John and James." This phrase also means that Jesus invited them to follow him, live with him, and become his disciples.

Matthew 4:22

they immediately left

"at that moment they left"

left the boat ... and followed him

It should be clear that they immediately put their nets down and left that place with Jesus. If your language requires you to tell whether they were leaving for the rest of the day or for a long time or for the rest of their lives, you should probably translate as they were leaving for the rest of their lives.

Matthew 4:23

teaching in their synagogues

"teaching in the synagogues of the Galileans" or "teaching in the synagogues of those people"

preaching the gospel of the kingdom

"preaching the good news that God will show himself as king"

every kind of disease and sickness

The words "disease" and "sickness" are closely related but should be translated as two different words if possible. "Disease" is what causes a person to be sick. "Sickness" is the physical weakness or affliction that results from having a disease.

Matthew 4:24

those who were possessed by demons

"those whom demons controlled"

the epileptics

The word "epileptic" refers to people who have epilepsy and so sometimes become unconscious and move uncontrollably.

Matthew 4:25

the Decapolis

This name means "the Ten Towns." This is the name of a region to the southeast of the Sea of Galilee.

Chapter 5

¹ When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on the mountain. When he had sat down, his disciples came to him. ² He opened his mouth and taught them, saying,

³ "Blessed are the poor in spirit,

for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

⁴ Blessed are those who mourn,

for they will be comforted.

⁵ Blessed are the meek,

for they will inherit the earth.

⁶ Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,

for they will be filled.

⁷ Blessed are the merciful,

for they will obtain mercy.

⁸ Blessed are the pure in heart,

for they will see God.

⁹ Blessed are the peacemakers,

for they will be called sons of God.

¹⁰ Blessed are those who have been persecuted for righteousness' sake,

for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

¹¹ "Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you and say all kinds of evil things against you falsely for my sake. ¹² Rejoice and be glad, for great is your reward in heaven. For in this way people persecuted the prophets who lived before you.

¹³ "You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt has lost its taste, how can it be made salty again? It is never again good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet. ¹⁴ You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.

¹⁵ Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but rather on the lampstand, and it shines for everyone in the house. ¹⁶ Let your light shine before people in such a way that they see your good deeds and glorify your Father who is in heaven.

¹⁷ "Do not think that I have come to destroy the law or the prophets. I have come not to destroy them, but to fulfill them. ¹⁸ For truly I say to you that until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or the smallest part of a letter will in any way pass away from the law, until all things have been accomplished.

¹⁹ Therefore whoever breaks the least one of these commandments and teaches others to do so will be called least in the kingdom of heaven. But whoever keeps them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. ²⁰ For I say to you that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will in no way enter the kingdom of heaven.

²¹ "You have heard that it was said to them in ancient times, 'Do not murder,' and 'Whoever murders will be subject to judgment.' ²² But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment; and whoever says to his brother, 'You worthless person!' will be subject to the council; and whoever says, 'You fool!' will be subject to the fire of hell.

²³ Therefore if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has anything against you, ²⁴ leave your gift there in front of the altar, and go on your way. First be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift.

²⁵ Agree with your adversary quickly while you are with him on the way to court, or your adversary may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison. ²⁶ Truly I say to you, you will never come out from there until you have paid the last penny you owe.

²⁷ "You have heard that it was said, 'Do not commit adultery.' ²⁸ But I say to you that everyone who looks on a woman to lust after her has already committed adultery with her in his heart.

²⁹ If your right eye causes you to stumble, pluck it out and throw it away from you. For it is better for you that one of your members should perish than that your whole body should be thrown into hell. ³⁰ If your right hand causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away from you. For it is better for you that one of your members should perish than that your whole body should go into hell.

³¹ It was also said, 'Whoever sends his wife away, let him give her a certificate of divorce.' ³² But I say to you that everyone who divorces his wife, except on account of sexual immorality, makes her an adulteress. Whoever marries her after she has been divorced commits adultery.

³³ "Again, you have heard that it was said to those in ancient times, 'Do not swear a false oath, but carry out your oaths to the Lord.' ³⁴ But I say to you, swear not at all, neither by heaven, for it is the throne of God; ³⁵ nor by the earth, for it is the footstool for his feet; nor by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King.

³⁶ Neither swear by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black. ³⁷ But let your speech be 'Yes, yes,' or 'No, no.' Anything that is more than this is from the evil one.

³⁸ "You have heard that it was said, 'An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.' ³⁹ But I say to you, do not resist one who is evil. Instead, whoever strikes you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also.

⁴⁰ If anyone wishes to bring a lawsuit against you and takes away your tunic, let that person also have your cloak. ⁴¹ Whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. ⁴² Give to anyone who asks you, and do not turn away from anyone who wishes to borrow from you.

⁴³ "You have heard that it was said, 'You must love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' ⁴⁴ But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, ¹ ⁴⁵ so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the just and the unjust.

⁴⁶ For if you love those who love you, what reward do you get? Do not even the tax collectors do the same thing? ⁴⁷ If you greet only your brothers, what do you do more than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same thing? ⁴⁸ Therefore you must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

¹The best ancient copies do not have Bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you .

Matthew 5

5:1-12

What is the “Sermon on the mount”?

[5:1]

In Matthew 5-7, Jesus taught people on the side of a mountain. Scholars call this the “sermon on the mount.” Scholars disagree about why Jesus taught these things.

Some scholars think Jesus was teaching Christians how to live.
Some scholars think Jesus was talking about how to make the whole world live in a way that honors God.
Some scholars think Jesus was teaching people how to live in a way that honors God. If they did not live in this way, then they needed to believe in Jesus so they could be at peace with God.
Some scholars think Jesus was teaching Christians how to live when he rules on the earth for 1000 years (see: Revelation 20:1-7).

See: Kingdom of God

Why does Jesus say “blessed” many times?

[5:3, 5:4, 5:5, 5:6, 5:7, 5:8, 5:9, 5:10, 5:11]

Jesus said the word “blessed” many times. He was talking about different people whom God blessed. God favored these people in some way.

Advice to translators: Some scholars call Matthew 5:3-7 the “Beatitudes.”

See: Luke 6:20-26

See: Bless (Blessing)

Who are the poor in spirit?

[5:3]

Jesus taught that God approved of those who were “poor.” Scholars think Jesus spoke of the spiritually poor (see: Matthew 5:3). That is, they knew their great need for God. These people trusted in Jesus and because of this were at peace with God. Because of this, they will inherit the kingdom of God.

See: Inherit (Inheritance, Heir); Kingdom of God; Spirit (Spiritual)

Who are those who mourn?

[5:4]

Jesus taught that God approved those who mourn. Some scholars think that Jesus spoke about people being sorry for their sins or the sins of other people. This sorrow caused them to weep. They repented. Other scholars think Jesus spoke about the evil of the world. This also caused Christians to weep. These scholars think Jesus spoke about the day when God gathers his people into his kingdom. There will be no mourning in the kingdom of God.

See: Sin; Kingdom of God

Who are the meek?

[5:5]

The meek are people who know they cannot do certain things without help. They know they cannot be at peace with God by themselves. They need Jesus. Because of this, they will inherit the earth. Some scholars think they will reign with Jesus on the earth (see: 2 Timothy 2:12). Other scholars think this was a metaphor. They will inherit the promises God gave to other people.

See: Inherit (Inheritance, Heir); Metaphor; Kingdom of God

Who are the people who hunger and thirst for righteousness?

[5:6]

Jesus taught that God approved of those who were hungry. He wanted to say that those who were hungry and thirsty really wanted to do the things that God wanted them to do. Scholars think the words, “they will be filled” spoke about God’s promise to approve those who hungered for him in this way.

See: Righteous (Righteousness)

Who are the merciful?

[5:7]

The merciful are people who forgive other people. They forgive other people because God forgave them.

See: Mercy; Forgive (Forgiveness, Pardon)

Who are the pure in heart?

[5:8]

The pure in heart are those whom God has made clean. These people will live together with God in heaven forever.

See: Clean and Unclean; Heaven; Heart (Metaphor)

Who are the peacemakers?

[5:9]

The peacemakers are people who try to be at peace with other people. They love other people because God loves all people. Because of this, they try to help people be at peace with God and with other people. They will be sons of God because they will be adopted into God’s family.

See: Adopt (Adoption); Family of God

Who has been persecuted for righteousness’ sake?

[5:10]

Christians are persecuted by non-Christians. This is because they try to do the right things, things that honor God. People who reject Jesus do not like this and persecute Christians. Christians will inherit the kingdom of God.

See: Persecute (Persecution) ; Inherit (Inheritance, Heir); Kingdom of God

How does God favor Christians when others persecute them?

[5:11]

Jesus said that God blesses people when other people do evil things to them. This is because God blesses Christians when they are persecuted. They are rewarded when they honor God and evil people punish them for it. They will be rewarded.

See: Bless (Blessing); Persecute (Persecution) ; Reward; Punish (Punishment)

What is a prophet?

[5:12]

See: Prophet

5:13-16

Why did Jesus compare Christians to salt?

[5:13]

Jesus compared Christians to salt. This was a metaphor. If salt stops being salt, then it does not do any good. Instead, it is thrown out. In the ancient world, salt was used to preserve food. Some scholars think Jesus wanted to say that if Christians do not do things that honor God, then they too are useless. Salt also makes people thirsty. Other scholars think Jesus wanted to say that Christians made people thirsty. This was a metaphor. They made non-Christians want to know more about God.

See: Metaphor

Why did Jesus compare Christians to light?

[5:14, 5:15, 5:16]

Jesus said that Christians were like light in some way. This was a metaphor. In ancient times, a light helped people know where to go. Christians are to help non-Christians know how to live in a way that honors God and how to be at peace with God. This is how they let their light shine before people. If non-Christians saw Christians loving other people and living in a way that honors God, then they would want to do the same.

See: Metaphor; Light and Darkness (Metaphor)

Why can a city on a hill not be hidden?

[5:14]

When a city is on the top of a hill. People can see it from far away. This is because there are lights in the city that cannot be hidden.

See: Metaphor; Light and Darkness (Metaphor)

Why do people not put a lamp under a basket?

[5:15]

People do not put a light under a basket because it would hide the light. If they did this, then people could not see the light. Therefore, they put the light on a lampstand so that other people can see the light.

See: Metaphor; Light and Darkness (Metaphor)

Who is your father in heaven?

[5:16]

Christians have a father in heaven. This is God. He lives in heaven.

See: Family of God; Heaven

5:17-20

How did Jesus come to fulfill the law and the prophets?

[5:17]

Jesus said that he did not come to destroy the law and the prophets. Rather, he came to fulfill them. Jesus was speaking about the Old Testament. He did not reject the things taught in the Old Testament. Instead, he fulfilled the many prophecies about the messiah in the Old Testament.

See: Fulfill (Fulfillment); Old Testament (Law and Prophets); Prophecy (Prophesy) ; Messiah (Christ)

Did Jesus say that the Law of Moses will remain until the end of the world?

[5:18]

Jesus said that the Law will not pass away until all things have been accomplished. He was speaking about the Law of Moses. Nothing in the Law of Moses would “pass away” until certain things were fulfilled. He was not saying that the heaven and the earth will end before these things happen. Instead, the Law of Moses would remain until he lived a perfect life and died for the sins of those who believe in him. Some scholars think that after this, the Law of Moses ended. Other scholars think that Christians obey certain parts of the Law of Moses.

See: Law of Moses; Fulfill (Fulfillment); Heaven; Sin; Atone (Atonement)

What is a jot and tittle?

[5:18]

When Jesus spoke about the jot and tittle, he was talking about Hebrew letters. He wanted to say that not one letter will change of the Old Testament until certain things happened.

Who taught other people to break certain commandments?

[5:19]

Jesus taught that certain people taught other people to break certain commandments in the Law of Moses. In ancient Israel, there were Jewish teachers who taught these things. However, Jesus said that, at this time, the Jews must obey every commandment in the Law of Moses.

See: Command (Commandment); Law of Moses

How are people least and greatest in the kingdom of God?

[5:19]

Jesus said that certain people will be least in the kingdom of heaven and other people will be greatest in the kingdom of heaven. They will be rewarded. However, he does not say how certain people will be rewarded and other people will not be rewarded.

See: Kingdom of God; Reward

How does someone enter into the kingdom of heaven?

[5:20]

People will enter into the kingdom of heaven. However, they need to be righteous to enter the kingdom of God. They need to be more righteous than the scribes and pharisees. People thought the scribes and pharisees were the most righteous. The righteousness that Jesus talked about was not something that people could do. Rather, it could only be given. Jesus lived a perfect life. After he did this, he gave this to Christians in some way so they could be at peace with God and enter into the kingdom of heaven.

See: Kingdom of God; Scribe; Pharisees; Righteous (Righteousness)

5:21-26

What did the Jewish teachers teach the people?

[5:21]

The Jewish teachers taught people that it was evil to kill other people. Jesus explained to them that it was wrong to kill someone. However, there were many other wrong things that happened before someone killed another person. Before they killed someone, they were angry with the other person. This was sin. God judges this sin too.

See: Sin; Judge (Judgment)

Why did someone say “you worthless person”?

[5:22]

When someone said, “you worthless person,” this was a great insult. The Jewish leaders might judge this person. However, if someone said a small insult, Jesus said they might go to hell. This is because everyone who sins deserves to go to hell and live there forever. However, if someone believes in Jesus their sins are forgiven and they will not go to hell.

See: Hell; Sin; Judge (Judgment)

How did Jesus want people to make sacrifices to God?

[5:23, 5:24]

Jesus did not want someone to offer a sacrifice to God if they were angry with someone else. He wanted people to be at peace with others before they made a sacrifice to God. This is because God wanted people to love one another more than he wanted a sacrifice. After they were at peace with other people, then they should make a sacrifice to God.

See: Offer (Offering); Sacrifice

Why did Jesus talk about going to court?

[5:25]

Jesus talked about going to court. This was a type of parable. People should be afraid to go to court when someone is angry with them. If they do this, then the judge may punish them greatly. Because of this, they should make peace with the other person before they are judged. In the same way, people should make peace with other people before God judges them. They should also make peace with God before God judges them.

See: Parable; Ancient Trials (Lawsuit); Judge (Judgment); Punish (Punishment)

5:27-32

How does someone commit adultery?

[5:27]

Jesus spoke about committing adultery. Someone commits adultery when they have sex with someone they are not married to. However, Jesus said that people also commit adultery before they have sex with someone else. They do this when they think about and want to have sex with this person. They sin when they desire to have sex with this person.

See: Adultery; Sexual Immorality

Did Jesus want people to pluck out their eyes?

[5:29]

Jesus said that people should pluck out their eyes. This was a metaphor. He wanted to say that it was better for them to not have eyes than to sin with their eyes.

See: Metaphor; Sin

Who will be thrown into hell?

[5:29]

Certain people will be sent to hell. Everyone who sins will be sent to hell unless they believe in Jesus.

See: Hell; Sin

What is a certificate of divorce?

[5:31]

In ancient times, a certificate of divorce is a piece of paper that was given to a woman after she was divorced. This helped her to marry another man. Many people did this in ancient Israel. However, if people did this, then they caused the woman and the man who remarried her to commit adultery. This is unless the husband committed sexual immorality.

See: 1 Corinthians 7:15

See: Divorce; Adultery; Sexual Immorality

5:33-37

What is false oath?

[5:33]

A false oath is a promise someone makes but they do not do the things they promised to do.

See: Swear (Oath)

How does someone carry out an oath to the Lord?

[5:33]

Jesus spoke about carrying an oath to the Lord. He was speaking about making a promise as if someone was making a promise to God.

See: Swear (Oath); Lord

Why did Jesus not want people to make oaths?

[5:34, 5:35]

Jesus did not want people to make oaths. In ancient times, people swore to many different things. The Jewish teachers had many rules about how someone could make an oath and break an oath. However, Jesus did not want people to swear by anything. If they made any promise and did not do it, then they sinned. He wanted people to do the things they promised to do.

See: Swear (Oath); Sin

Who is the evil one?

[5:37]

The evil one is Satan, or the devil (see: Matthew 4:1).

See: Satan (The Devil)

5:38-48

What is an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth?

[5:38]

In the Law of Moses, it said that people were to be punished in a certain way (see: Exodus 21:23-24). People were not supposed to punish people more than the wrong they did to be punished. The Law of Moses protected people from being punished too much. However, Jesus taught that Christians do not need to punish people when people wrong them. Instead, they can forgive other people because God forgave them.

See: Law of Moses; Punish (Punishment)

Who said that people were supposed to hate their enemies?

[5:43]

The Pharisees taught that people were supposed to love other people, but to hate their enemies. However, Jesus taught that Christians are to pray for those who persecute them. This is because God will reward Christians for honoring God when they are persecuted. However, they should pray for the people who persecute them so they can come to believe in Jesus.

See: Persecute (Persecution) ;Pharisees; Reward

What did Matthew say in verse 44?

[5:44]

Some ancient copies of the Greek New Testament contain the words, “bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you.” More and older copies of the Greek New Testament do not have these words. Scholars do not think Matthew wrote these words.

See: Bless (Blessing)

How is someone a son of the Father in heaven?

[5:45]

Christians are children of God. They are sons of God the Father in heaven. Here, Jesus was saying that Christians do the things that God the Father wants them to do when he said they were sons of the Father in heaven.

See: Family of God; God the Father; Heaven

Why did Jesus talk about the sun and the rain?

[5:45]

Jesus talked about the sun and the rain. He wanted to say that God is gracious to Christians and non-Christians. He shows everyone some favor. Because of this, Christians should do the same.

See: Grace

What were tax collectors?

[5:46]

People in Israel hated the tax collectors because they thought they were evil. Tax collectors were Jews who worked for the Roman government. They paid the Romans so they could collect taxes from other people. If they collected more taxes than they paid the Roman government, then they were allowed to keep it. Because of this, many tax collectors became rich. The Jews thought a Jewish tax collector betrayed the Jewish people because they took money from the Jews and gave it to the Romans. They thought tax collectors were evil because they took money from people who honored God and gave it to people who rejected God.

See: Tax (Tax Collector, Toll)

What did Jesus want Christians to do?

[5:47]

Jesus wanted Christians to do more good things than other people. They needed to do more good things that evil people.

See: Gentile

How does God want people to live?

[5:48]

God wants people to be perfect. That is, he wants people to always do good things. While no one is able to do this except Jesus, this is what God wants.

Matthew 5:1

General Information:

This is the beginning of a new part of the story in which Jesus begins to teach his disciples. This part continues through the end of chapter 7 and is frequently called the Sermon on the Mount.

Matthew 5:2

He opened his mouth

"Jesus began to speak"

Matthew 5:3

the poor in spirit

"those who know they need God"

for theirs is the kingdom of heaven

"for God in heaven will be their king"

Matthew 5:4

those who mourn

Possible reasons they are sad are 1) the sinfulness of the world or 2) their own sins or 3) the death of someone. Do not specify the reason for mourning unless your language requires it.

they will be comforted

"God will comfort them"

Matthew 5:5

the meek

"the gentle" or "those who do not rely on their own power"

they will inherit the earth

"God will give them the entire earth"

Matthew 5:6

those who hunger and thirst for righteousness

"those who desire to live right as much as they desire food and drink"

they will be filled

"God will fill them" or "God will satisfy them"

Matthew 5:8

the pure in heart

"those who only want to serve God"

they will see God

"God will allow them to live with him"

Matthew 5:9

the peacemakers

These are the people who help others to have peace with one another.

for they will be called sons of God

"for God will call them his children" or "they will be children of God"

sons of God

It is best to translate "sons" with the same word your language would naturally use to refer to a human son or child.

Matthew 5:10

those who have been persecuted

"those people whom others treat unfairly"

for righteousness' sake

"because they do what God wants them to do" or "because they do what God wants them to do"

theirs is the kingdom of heaven

Here "kingdom of heaven" refers to God's rule as king. This phrase is only in the book of Matthew. If possible, keep "heaven" in your translation.

Matthew 5:11

for my sake

"because you follow me" or because you believe in me"

Matthew 5:13

You are the salt of the earth

"You are like salt for the people of the world" or 2) just as salt preserves food, disciples of Jesus keep people from becoming totally corrupt."

if the salt has lost its taste

Possible meanings are 1) "if the salt has lost its power to do things that salt does" or 2) "if the salt has lost its flavor."

how can it be made salty again?

"it cannot become useful again."

except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet

"except for people to throw it out into the road and walk on it"

Matthew 5:14

You are the light of the world

"You are like a light for the people of the world"

A city set on a hill cannot be hidden

"no one can hide the lights that shine from a city on a hill" or "Everyone sees the lights of a city on a hill"

Matthew 5:15

put it under a basket

"place the lamp under a basket." This is saying it is foolish to create light only to hide it so people do not see the light of the lamp.

Matthew 5:16

Let your light shine before people

"Let your lives be like a light that shines before people"

your Father who is in heaven

This refers to God the Father. It is best to translate “Father” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human father.

Matthew 5:17

the prophets

"what the prophets wrote"

I have come ... to fulfill them

"I have come ... to do the things that are in the law and the writings of the prophets

Matthew 5:18

truly I say to you

"I tell you the truth." This phrase adds emphasis to what Jesus says next.

until heaven and earth pass away

"as long as the universe lasts"

until all things have been accomplished

"until all things have happened" or "until God causes all things to happen"

all things

"everything in the law" or "all that is written in the law"

Matthew 5:19

whoever breaks

"whoever disobeys" or "whoever ignores"

the least one of these commandments and teaches

"any of these commandments, even the least important one, and teaches"

whoever ... teaches others to do so will be called

"if anyone ... teaches others to do so, God will call that person"

least in the kingdom of heaven

"the least important in the heavenly kingdom" or "the least important under the rule of our God in heaven"

keeps them and teaches them

"obeys all these commandments and teaches others to do the same"

Matthew 5:21

it was said to them in ancient times

"God said to those who lived long ago" or "Moses said to your ancestors long ago"

will be subject to judgment

Possible meanings are 1) "will have to go to the judge" or 2) "will be in danger of punishment."

Matthew 5:22

But I say to you

Jesus agrees with God and his word, but he does not agree with the way the religious leaders have applied God's word. The "I" is important. This indicates that what Jesus says is just as important as the original commands. Try to translate this phrase in a way that shows that emphasis.

brother

This probably refers to a fellow believer.

worthless person ... fool

Both of these insults represent a person who does not think correctly. "Worthless person" is close to "brainless," where "fool" adds the idea of disobedience to God.

council

This was likely a local council, not the main religious council in Jerusalem.

Matthew 5:23

offering your gift

"giving your gift" or "bringing your gift to God"

at the altar

"at God's altar"

and there remember

"and while you are standing at the altar you remember"

your brother has anything against you

"another person is angry with you because of something you did"

Matthew 5:24

First be reconciled with your brother

"First make peace with the person"

Matthew 5:25

your adversary

This is a person who takes someone to court to accuse him of doing something wrong.

may hand you over to the judge

"will let the judge deal with you"

the officer

a person who has authority to carry out the decisions of a judge

you may be thrown into prison

"the officer might put you in prison"

Matthew 5:26

from there

"from the prison"

Matthew 5:27

that it was said

"that God said" or "that Moses said." See how you translated a similar phrase in Matthew 5:21.

Matthew 5:28

But I say to you

See how you translated this in Matthew 5:22.

everyone who looks on a woman to lust after her has already committed adultery with her in his heart

This teaches that a man who lusts after a woman is as guilty of adultery as a man who actually commits the act of adultery.

to lust after her

“and lusts after her” or “and desires to sleep with her”

in his heart

“in his mind” or “in his thoughts”

Matthew 5:29

If your right eye causes you to stumble

“if looking at something with your right eye tempts you to sin” or “if you are tempted to sin with your right eye”

your right eye

The Jews thought of the right hand as more important than the left hand, so the phrase “right eye” represents the more important eye. You may need to translate “right” as “better” or “stronger.”

pluck it out

“pluck out your eye” or “destroy it”

one of your members should perish

“one part of your body should perish” or “you should lose one part of your body”

than that your whole body should be thrown into hell

“than for God to throw your whole body into hell”

Matthew 5:30

If your right hand causes you to stumble

"If what you can do with your right hand causes you to sin" or "if you are tempted to sin with your right hand"

right hand

This means the important hand, as opposed to the left hand. You may need to translate "right" as "better" or "stronger."

cut it off

"cut off your hand"

Matthew 5:31

sends his wife away

"divorces his wife."

let him give

"he must give"

Matthew 5:32

makes her an adulteress

It is the man who divorces the woman improperly who "causes her to commit adultery." In many cultures it would be normal for her to remarry, but if the divorce is improper, such a remarriage is adultery.

marries her after she has been divorced

"marries her after her husband has divorced her" or "marries the divorced woman"

Matthew 5:33

Again, you have heard

"Also, you have heard" or "Here is another example. You have heard"

Do not swear a false oath, but carry out your oaths to the Lord.

"Do not swear that you will do something and then not do it. Instead do whatever you have sworn to the Lord that you will do"

Matthew 5:34

General Information:

In Matthew 5:34-37, some people were teaching that if a person swears by God that he will do something, then he must do it, but if he swears by something else, then it is less offensive if he does not do what he swore to do. Jesus says that swearing by heaven or earth or Jerusalem is just as serious as swearing by God because those things all belong to God.

swear not at all

"do not swear at all" or "do not swear by anything"

neither by heaven

"Do not swear by heaven"

it is the throne of God

"it is from here that God rules"

Matthew 5:35

nor by the earth ... nor by Jerusalem

"do not swear by the earth ... and do not swear by Jerusalem." Jesus continues to name things that people should not swear by.

it is the footstool for his feet

"it is like a footstool where a king rests his feet"

for it is the city of the great King

"for it is the city that belongs to God, the great King"

Matthew 5:36

Neither swear by your head

"And do not swear by your head." See how you translated "swear" in Matthew 5:34.

Matthew 5:37

let your speech be 'Yes, yes,' or 'No, no.'

"if you mean 'yes,' say 'yes,' and if you mean 'no,' say 'no.'"

Matthew 5:38

that it was said

See how you translated this in Matthew 5:27

eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth

The law of Moses allowed a person to harm a person in the same way he had harmed him, but he could not harm him more than that..

Matthew 5:39

one who is evil

"an evil person" or "someone who harms you"

strikes

hits with the back of an open hand

turn to him the other also

"let him hit your other cheek also"

Matthew 5:40

tunic ... cloak

The "tunic" was worn close to the body, like a heavy shirt or a sweater. The "cloak," the more valuable of the two, was worn over the "tunic" for warmth and also used as a blanket for warmth at night.

let that person also have your cloak

"give that person your cloak, too"

Matthew 5:41

Whoever compels you to go one mile

"If someone forces you to walk one mile with him"

one mile

This is one thousand paces, the distance a Roman soldier could legally force someone to carry something for him. If "mile" is confusing, it can be translated as "one kilometer."

go with him two

"go with him twice as far" or "go with him two miles"

Matthew 5:42

do not turn away from

"do not refuse to lend to."

Matthew 5:43

General Information:

God taught in the law that people must love their neighbors. Some people said that God taught that people should hate their enemies.

your neighbor

"your countrymen" or "those who belong to your people group"

Matthew 5:44

I say to you ... your enemies ... pray ... persecute you

All instances of "you" and "your," as well as the command to pray, are plural.

Matthew 5:45

you may be sons of your Father

It is best to translate "sons" with the same word your language would naturally use to refer to human sons or children.

Matthew 5:46

what reward do you get?

"you will get no reward."

Do not even the tax collectors do the same thing?

"Even the tax collectors do the same thing."

Matthew 5:47

what do you do more than others?

"you do nothing more than others."

greet

This is a general term for showing a desire for the well-being of the hearer.

Do not even the Gentiles do the same thing?

"Even the Gentiles do the same thing."

Matthew 5:48

Father

This refers to God the Father. It is best to translate “Father” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human father.

Chapter 6

¹ "Watch out that you do not do your acts of righteousness before people to be seen by them, or else you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. ² So when you give alms, do not sound a trumpet before yourself as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, so that they may be glorified by people. Truly I say to you, they have received their reward in full.

³ But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing ⁴ so that your alms may be given in secret. Then your Father who sees in secret will reward you.

⁵ "When you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and on the street corners so that they may be seen by people. Truly I say to you, they have received their reward. ⁶ But you, when you pray, enter your inner chamber. Shut the door and pray to your Father, who is in secret. Then your Father who sees in secret will reward you. ⁷ When you pray, do not make useless repetitions as the pagans do, for they think that they will be heard because of their many words.

⁸ Therefore, do not be like them, for your Father knows what things you need before you ask him.

⁹ Therefore pray like this:

'Our Father in heaven,

may your name be honored as holy.

¹⁰ May your kingdom come.

May your will be done

on earth as it is in heaven.

¹¹ Give us today our daily bread.

¹² Forgive us our debts,

as we also have forgiven our debtors.

¹³ Do not bring us into temptation,

but deliver us from the evil one.' ¹

¹⁴ For if you forgive people their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. ¹⁵ But if you do not forgive their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

¹⁶ "When you fast, do not have a sad face as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces so that they may appear to people to be fasting. Truly I say to you, they have received their reward in full. ¹⁷ But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face ¹⁸ so that you may not appear to people to be fasting, but only to your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.

¹⁹ "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on the earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. ²⁰ Instead, store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in and steal. ²¹ For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

²² The eye is the lamp of the body. Therefore, if your eye is good, your whole body is filled with light. ²³ But if your eye is bad, your whole body is full of darkness. Therefore, if the light that is in you is actually darkness, how great is that darkness! ²⁴ No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth.

²⁵ Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; or about your body, what you will wear. For is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? ²⁶ Look at the birds in the sky. They do not sow or reap or gather into barns, but your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not more valuable than they are?

²⁷ Which one of you by being anxious can add one cubit to his lifespan? ²⁸ Why are you anxious about clothing? Think about the lilies in the fields, how they grow. They do not labor, and they do not spin cloth. ²⁹ Yet I say to you, even Solomon in all his glory was not clothed like one of these.

³⁰ If God so clothes the grass in the fields, which exists today and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will he clothe you, you of little faith? ³¹ Therefore do not be anxious and say, 'What will we eat?' or 'What will we drink?' or 'What clothes will we wear?'

³² For the Gentiles search for these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. ³³ But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you. ³⁴ Therefore, do not be anxious for tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Each day has enough evil of its own.

¹The best ancient copies do not have For yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen .

Matthew 6

6:1-4

Why did Jesus not want people to do good things in certain ways?

[6:1]

Jesus did not want people to do good things so that other people could see them doing good things. If they do this, other people will reward them. They received their full reward when other people saw them and praised them for it. However, God will not reward them.

See: Reward; Praise

Why did people give alms?

[6:2, 6:3, 6:4]

When someone gave alms, they gave money to people who needed it. When people did this, they should not sound a trumpet. That is, they are not to announce they are giving money to poor people when they do this.

What is a hypocrite?

[6:2]

A hypocrite is someone who says one thing but does something else.

See: Hypocrisy (Hypocirte)

What is a synagogue?

[6:2]

See: Synagogue

How is someone not supposed to let their left hand know what their right hand is doing?

[6:3]

Jesus spoke about having someone’s left hand not know what their right hand is doing. When he said this, he wanted people to do things secretly, that is, without other people knowing about it. If they did this, then only God would know. Then God would reward them.

See: Reward

6:5-15

Who are the hypocrites?

[6:5]

Jesus spoke about hypocrites. He was speaking about certain Jewish teachers. These teachers did things so that many people could see them and think that they greatly honored God. This was their reward, other people thought these Jewish teachers honored God. However, they did not honor God when they did this and God did not reward them.

See: Hypocrisy (Hypocirte); Reward

What is an inner chamber?

[6:6]

Jesus spoke about an inner chamber. This is a place inside a person’s home. He wanted people to go to a place where no one else could see them. When people do this, God will reward them.

See: Reward

What is a useless repetition?

[6:7]

In ancient times, people who worshipped many gods would pray in a certain way. When they prayed, they would say the same things over and over again. They did this so that their false gods would pay attention to them so they could tell these gods what they need. This was not how Jesus wanted people to pray. God knows what people want when they pray. However, Jesus still wanted people to pray.

See: False gods; Pray (Prayer)

What is the Lord’s prayer?

[6:9]

Jesus taught people to pray in Matthew 6:9-13. Scholars call this the “Lord’s prayer.”

Who is “our father in heaven”?

[6:9]

Jesus spoke about “our father in heaven.” God is the father of Christians and he lives in heaven.

See: God the Father; Heaven; Family of God

What is holy?

[6:9]

See: Holy (Holiness, Set Apart)

Why did Jesus say, “may your kingdom come”?

[6:10]

Jesus prayed for the kingdom of God to come. He wanted Christians to pray for this to happen soon.

See: Kingdom of God; Pray (Prayer)

What is the will of God?

[6:10]

See: Will of God

Why did Jesus pray for daily bread?

[6:11]

God gave the disciples daily bread by providing for everything they needed. Bread was a metaphor for food. That is, it included any food the disciples needed. Some scholars say it also included everything else the disciples needed for living. That is, God provided clothing, housing, and everything else they needed. Other scholars say bread was a metaphor for the things in heaven God will give to them.

See: Disciple; Metaphor; Heaven

Why should Christians pray to have their debts forgiven?

[6:12]

In ancient Israel, people thought that sins created a kind of debt where someone owed someone else. God’s forgiveness of the disciples’ sins was related to the disciples forgiveness of sins people did against them because God wanted the disciples to love other people. God did not forgive the disciples’ sins because they did good things. God forgave them because of his mercy. However, when the disciples prayed and asked God to forgive their sins, they needed to be ready to forgive sins people did against them.

See: Sin; Disciple; Redeem (Redemption); Forgive (Forgiveness, Pardon); Mercy; Pray (Prayer)

How did Jesus use the word “temptation”?

[6:13]

Some scholars say Jesus when he used the word “temptation”(πειρασμός/g3986) he was thinking about sin. Other scholars say Jesus was thinking about testing. That is, persecution or suffering the disciples had.

See: Sin; Tempt (Temptation); Test; Persecute (Persecution)

Who is the evil one?

[6:13]

Satan, or the devil (see: Matthew 4:1), is the evil one.

See: Satan (The Devil)

What did Matthew write in verse 13?

[6:13]

Some ancient copies of the Greek New Testament contain the words “for yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.” More and older ancient copies of the Greek New Testament do not have these words. Therefore, scholars do not think Matthew wrote these words.

See: Kingdom of God; Glory (Glorify)

Why did Jesus speak about trespasses?

[6:14, 6:15]

In verses 14 and 15, Jesus spoke about trespasses. He was saying the same thing he said in verse 12. A trespass is something someone does that goes against the law or against God in some way. It is sin.

See: Sin

6:16-18

What is fasting?

[6:16, 6:17, 6:18]

See: Fasting

Who were the hypocrites?

[6:16]

Jesus spoke about hypocrites. He was speaking about Jewish teachers. They fasted so that people could see them fast and think these teachers did things to honor God.

See: Hypocrisy (Hypocirte); Fasting

Why did Jesus tell people to wash when they fasted?

[6:17]

Jesus wanted people to anoint or wash their face and head when they fasted. This was the opposite of what the Jewish leaders did. If they did this, they did not look like they were hungry. He did not want other people to know they were worshipping God in this way. If they did this, God would reward them.

See: Fasting; Anoint (Anointing); Reward; Worship

6:19-34

Why did Jesus talk about treasures?

[6:19, 6:20, 6:21]

Jesus talked about treasures. Treasures are things people keep that are very valuable. Jesus did not want people to collect things that were valuable on the earth. This is because they did not last long. They were destroyed or someone took them. He wanted people to not care very much about the things they had on the earth. They only have these things while they are alive. Instead, they should store treasures in heaven. This is a metaphor. They should collect rewards from God. These rewards will last forever.

See: Reward; Metaphor; Heaven

Why did Jesus talk about someone’s eyes?

[6:22, 6:23]

Jesus talked about a person’s eye. He said it was like a lamp. A person uses their eyes to see, which helps them know where they are going. A lamp shines a light so that a person can see where they are going. A person’s eye shows what is important to them because it will be the thing they look at the most. In this way, the eye works like a lamp to show a person what is most important to them.

See: Light and Darkness (Metaphor)

Why did Jesus talk about serving God and wealth?

[6:24]

Jesus talked about serving God and wealth. He wanted to say that people could only truly serve one master. He wanted people to serve God completely. However, many people served money instead. This was a metaphor. For these people money was a type of false god. They could not serve God and this false god at the same time.

See: False gods

How long is a cubit?

[6:27]

Jesus spoke about adding a cubit to how long one lives. This was a short length of time. He wanted to say that no one could make themselves live any longer. This is because only God can do this.

See: Cubit

How is someone anxious?

[6:27, 6:28]

A person is anxious when he is worried about something. A person can be anxious about things like not having enough money or food. Who was Solomon?

Solomon was the most powerful king of ancient Israel. He had a lot of money and built many great things in Israel.

Why did Jesus ask so many questions?

[6:31]

Jesus asked many questions, but he did not expect anyone to answer him. He wanted people to know that God cares more for people than anything else he created. He would care for them and give people everything they need. He corrected them and said they have “little faith.” That is, they did not trust in God very much.

See: Faith (Believe in)

Why did Jesus talk about the Gentiles?

[6:32]

Jesus talked about the Gentiles being anxious about getting the things they need to live. This was because they did not know God and they did not know He would provide for them. Jesus wanted Christians to trust in God for these things because he promised to give them the things they need. Instead, they are to be concerned about other things. That is, they were to think about how to honor God and teaching other people about Jesus.

See: Gentile

How do people seek first the kingdom and God’s righteousness?

[6:33]

Jesus spoke about seeking first the kingdom of God and God’s righteousness. He wanted Christians to think about how they could serve God and his kingdom and how they could do things that honor him.

See: Kingdom of God; Righteous (Righteousness)

Matthew 6:1

Connecting Statement:

Jesus continues to teach his disciples in his Sermon on the Mount, which began in Matthew 5:3.

Watch out

"Be careful" or "Beware"

before people to be seen by them

"in front of people just so that they can see you and think well of you"

Father

This refers to God the Father. It is best to translate “Father” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human father.

Matthew 6:2

So when you give alms

"So when you give to poor people"

do not sound a trumpet before yourself

"do not draw attention to yourself like someone who plays a loud trumpet in a crowd"

Truly I say to you

"I tell you the truth." This phrase adds emphasis to what Jesus says next.

Matthew 6:3

do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing

“do it so secretly that even your left hand does not know that your right hand is giving alms”

Matthew 6:4

your alms may be given in secret

"you can give to the poor without other people knowing"

Matthew 6:5

so that they may be seen by people

"so that people will see them and give them honor"

Matthew 6:6

enter your inner chamber. Shut the door

“go into room alone. Close the door” or “go where you can be alone”

Father, who is in secret

“Father, who is with you in private” or 2) no one can see God. Alternate translation: “Father, who is invisible”

#your Father who sees in secret

“your Father will see what you do in private and”

Matthew 6:7

do not make useless repetitions

"do not keeping repeating meaningless words"

they will be heard

"their false gods will hear them"

Matthew 6:9

Our Father in heaven

This is the beginning of the prayer and how Jesus teaches the people to address God.

may your name be honored as holy

Here "your name" refers to God himself. Alternate translation: "may people honor you as holy" or "may people honor you because you are holy"

Matthew 6:10

May your kingdom come

"May you rule over everyone and everything completely"

May your will be done on earth as it is in heaven

"May everything on earth happen in accordance with your will, just as everything in heaven does"

Matthew 6:11

daily bread

Here "bread" refers to food in general.

Matthew 6:12

debts

A debt is what one person owes another.

our debtors

A debtor is a person who owes a debt to another person.

Matthew 6:13

Do not bring us into temptation

"Do not let anything tempt us" or "Do not let anything make us want to sin"

Matthew 6:14

their trespasses

"when they trespass against you" or "when they do you wrong"

Matthew 6:15

their trespasses ... your trespasses

"them when they trespass against you ... you when you trespass against God" or "them when they do things that harm you ... you when you do things that make your Father angry"

Matthew 6:16

they disfigure their faces

"they make their faces look dirty" or "they put ashes on their faces"

Truly I say to you

"I tell you the truth." This phrase adds emphasis to what Jesus says next.

Matthew 6:17

anoint your head

Jesus means that people should look the same whether they are fasting or not.

Matthew 6:18

who sees in secret

"who sees what you do in private."

Matthew 6:19

treasures

"riches" or "valuable things"

where moth and rust destroy

"where moths and rust ruin things"

moth

a small, flying insect that destroys cloth

Matthew 6:20

store up for yourselves treasures in heaven

This means to do good things on earth so God will reward you in heaven.

Matthew 6:21

there will your heart be also

Here "heart" means a person's thoughts and desires.

Matthew 6:22

The eye is the lamp of the body

"A person's eyes are like a lamp for his body"

if your eye is good

"if your eye is noble" or "if your eyes see clearly."

the whole body is filled with light

Possible meanings are 1) "you are full of righteousness" or 2) "you understand what is truly good"

Matthew 6:23

if your eye is bad, your whole body is full of darkness

Possible meanings are 1) "if your eye does not see clearly, it fills your body with darkness" or 2) "if your eye is bad, it shows that your body is full of darkness."

your whole body is full of darkness

Possible meanings are "you are full of evil" or 2) "you will understand nothing about what is right."

how great is that darkness!

"then that darkness is extremely dark"

Matthew 6:24

You cannot serve God and wealth

"You cannot love God and money at the same time"

Matthew 6:25

I say to you

This adds emphasis to what Jesus says next.

is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?

"life is more than what you eat, and your body is more than what you wear." or "there are things in life that are more important than food, and there are things concerning the body that are more important than clothes."

Matthew 6:26

gather into barns

"store food in barns"

Are you not more valuable than they are?

"Obviously you are more valuable than birds."

Matthew 6:27

Which one of you by being anxious can add one cubit to his lifespan?

This question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "None of you can add a cubit to your lifespan by worrying." or "Worrying will not help any of you make your life even one hour longer."

one cubit

A cubit, a measure of a little less than half a meter, is used here to refer to a short period of time. Alternate translation: "one hour" or "one minute"

Matthew 6:28

Why are you anxious about clothing?

This question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "There is no reason to be worried about clothing."

lilies

A lily is a kind of wild flower.

they do not spin cloth

"they do not spin thread for cloth" or "they do not make cloth"

Matthew 6:29

even Solomon ... was not clothed like one of these

Jesus speaks about the lilies as if they were people who wore clothes. The lilies were plants having beautiful and colorful flowers.

was not clothed like one of these

"did not wear clothes that are as beautiful as these lilies"

Matthew 6:30

so clothes the grass in the fields

"makes such beautiful flowers to be like clothing for the grass in the field"

is thrown into the oven

"someone throws it into a fire" or "someone burns it"

how much more will he clothe you ... faith?

"he will certainly clothe you ... faith."

you of little faith

"you who have such little faith." Jesus addresses the people this way because their anxiety about food and clothing shows they have little faith in God.

Matthew 6:31

What clothes will we wear

"What possessions will we have"

Matthew 6:32

For the Gentiles search for these things

"For the Gentiles are concerned about what they will eat, drink, and wear"

your heavenly Father knows that you need them

Jesus is implying that God will make sure their basic needs are met.

Matthew 6:33

seek first his kingdom and his righteousness

"concern yourselves first with serving God, who is your king, and doing what is right"

all these things will be given to you

"God will provide all these things for you"

Matthew 6:34

tomorrow will be anxious for itself

"tomorrow there will be other things to be anxious about"

Each day has enough evil of its own

"Each day has enough trouble of its own"

Chapter 7

¹ "Do not judge, and you will not be judged. ² For with the judgment you judge, you will be judged, and with the measure that you measure, it will be measured out to you.

³ Why do you look at the tiny piece of straw that is in your brother's eye, but you do not take notice of the log that is in your own eye? ⁴ How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take out the piece of straw that is in your eye,' while the log is in your own eye? ⁵ You hypocrite! First take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take out the piece of straw that is in your brother's eye.

⁶ Do not give what is holy to the dogs, and do not throw your pearls in front of the pigs. Otherwise they may trample them underfoot, and then turn and tear you to pieces.

⁷ "Ask, and it will be given to you. Seek, and you will find. Knock, and it will be opened to you. ⁸ For everyone who asks, receives; everyone who seeks, finds; and to the person who knocks, it will be opened. ⁹ Or which one of you, if his son asks for a loaf of bread, will give him a stone? ¹⁰ Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake?

¹¹ Therefore, if you who are evil know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask him? ¹² Therefore, whatever things you want people to do to you, you should also do to them, for this is the law and the prophets.

¹³ "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many people who go through it. ¹⁴ But the gate is narrow and the way is difficult that leads to life, and there are few who find it.

¹⁵ "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but are truly ravenous wolves. ¹⁶ By their fruits you will know them. Do people gather grapes from a thornbush or figs from thistles? ¹⁷ In the same way, every good tree produces good fruit, but the bad tree produces bad fruit.

¹⁸ A good tree cannot produce bad fruit, nor can a bad tree produce good fruit. ¹⁹ Every tree that does not produce good fruit is chopped down and thrown into the fire. ²⁰ So then, you will recognize them by their fruits.

²¹ Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter into the kingdom of heaven, but only those who do the will of my Father who is in heaven. ²² Many people will say to me in that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, in your name drive out demons, and in your name do many miracles?' ²³ Then will I openly declare to them, 'I never knew you! Get away from me, you who practice lawlessness!'

²⁴ "Therefore, everyone who hears my words and obeys them will be like a wise man who built his house upon a rock. ²⁵ The rain came down, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat upon that house, but it did not fall down, for it was founded on the rock.

²⁶ But everyone who hears my words and does not obey them will be like a foolish man who built his house upon the sand. ²⁷ The rain came down, the floods came, and the winds blew and struck that house, and it fell, and its destruction was complete."

²⁸ It came about that when Jesus finished speaking these words, the crowds were astonished by his teaching, ²⁹ for he taught them as one who had authority, and not as their scribes.

Matthew 7

7:1-14

Why did Jesus not want Christians to judge one another?

[7:1, 7:2]

Jesus did not want Christians to judge one another. That is, Christians should not condemn other people. This is something that God does. Scholars think that when Christians do this, God will condemn them. God will condemn Christians as severely as Christians condemn other people. However, he did not say that Christians should not judge other Christian’s actions to know whether they were doing right or wrong. Also, this does not mean that these Christians will not get to live forever in heaven with God.

See: Condemn (Condemnation); Heaven

Why did Jesus speak about a piece of straw and a log?

[7:3, 7:4, 7:5]

Jesus said that Christians should remove the log from their own eye before they try to remove a piece of straw from their brother’s eye. A log is a large piece of wood. This was a metaphor. He wanted Christians to judge themselves before they judge other people. That is, they should know they are doing the right things before they say other people are doing the wrong things.

See: Family of God; Metaphor; Judge (Judgment)

Why should people not give holy things to dogs and pearls to pigs?

[7:6]

Jesus said that people should not give holy things to dogs and pearls to pigs. That is, they should not give holy things to unholy people. This was a metaphor. In ancient Israel, dogs and pigs were unclean animals. Jesus was not just talking about not condemning other people. Here, some scholars think he wanted the Christians to stop teaching the truth of the gospel to those who were condemning them and rejecting the gospel, the messiah, and the kingdom of God. These people may kill those who tell them about Jesus.

See: Holy (Holiness, Set Apart); Metaphor; Clean and Unclean; Gospel; Messiah (Christ); Kingdom of God; Condemn (Condemnation)

Will Jesus give anything that is asked for to Christians?

[7:7, 7:8]

Jesus talked about God wanting to give things to Christians. He wanted Christians to ask God for things they wanted. However, God would not give them everything they asked. Instead, he would give it to them if it was his will.

Christians were to trust that God would give them what they need and whatever was best for them. Evil people still help their children. God loves Christians more than evil people love their children. Because of this, Christians can trust that God will give them whatever he knows is best for them.

See: Will of God; Family of God

What things should Christians do for others if they want others to do things for them?

[7:12]

Jesus said that Christians should do things for others in the same way they want others to do things for them. This meant that a Christian must treat people in the way they themselves want to be treated. This included Jesus’ command that Christians must love their neighbor.

See: Matthew 22:35-40

What is the law and the prophets?

[7:12]

See: Old Testament (Law and Prophets)

Why did Jesus say about wide and narrow gates?

[7:13, 7:14]

Jesus talked about wide and narrow gates. Wide gates were easy to get through and narrow gates were hard to get through. This was a metaphor. Jesus wanted to say that it was difficult to do things to honor God, but it is easy to sin and do things that dishonor God. He also wanted to say that it was easy for people to reject him, and difficult for people to believe in him.

See: Metaphor; Sin

7:15-23

How were false prophets like wolves in sheep’s clothing?

[7:15]

Jesus compared false prophets to wolves dressed to look like sheep. This was a metaphor. These wolves dress like sheep to make the sheep think they were also sheep so they could eat them. Jesus wanted to say that false prophets tried to do things that made people think they were Christians who honored God. However, they really were false teachers and trying to harm these Christians.

See: False Prophet; Metaphor

How will people know the false prophets?

[7:16]

Jesus said that people will know the false prophets by their fruit. They are like a tree that produces bad fruit. This was a metaphor. People will know they are false prophets because they live in a way that dishonors God. In the same way, true prophets will live in a way that honors God.

Jesus also talked about destroying the bad tree. He wanted people to know that the false prophets would die and be punished. They would live in hell forever.

See: False Prophet; Metaphor; Fruit (Metaphor); Prophet; Hell; Punish (Punishment)

Who will enter into the kingdom of Heaven?

[7:21]

Jesus said that everyone who calls Jesus their master in that day will enter the kingdom of heaven. Some scholars think Jesus was talking about a future time when Jesus will judge the false prophets. They will not be allowed to enter into the kingdom of heaven. While they said they did many things to serve Jesus, Jesus knew why they did the things they did and that they did not do anything to serve Jesus. Instead, they did lawlessness. That is, they did things Satan wanted them to do.

See: Kingdom of God; Demon Possession (Casting Out Demons); Miracle; Satan (The Devil)

7:24-29

Why did Jesus talk about someone building their house?

[7:24]

Jesus spoke about someone building a house. This was a metaphor. In ancient Israel, people wanted to build their houses on rocks. This protected their houses from falling. If they built their houses on sand, they would be destroyed by the wind and rain. This was a metaphor. People who do the things the false prophets taught would be punished. However, people who did things God taught in the word of God were not punished.

See: Word of God; False Prophet

Why did the scribes teach without authority?

[7:29]

When Jesus taught these things, he knew they were true. The scribes taught many different things and did not agree with one another. Therefore, when they taught, they did not teach as if they knew the things they taught were true. Therefore, people did not know whether to believe them.

See: Scribe

Matthew 7:1

Do not judge

"Do not condemn others"

you will not be judged

"God will not judge you" or "God will not condemn you"

Matthew 7:2

with the judgment you judge, you will be judged

"God will judge you in the same way you judge others"

measure

Possible meanings are 1) this is the amount of punishment given or 2) this is the standard used for judgment.

it will be measured out to you

"God will measure it out to you"

Matthew 7:3

Why do you look ... brother's eye, but you do not take notice of the log that is in your own eye?

"You look ... brother's eye, but you do not notice the log that is in your own eye." or "Do not look ... brother's eye and ignore the log that is in your own eye."

the tiny piece of straw that is in your brother's eye

This refers to the less important faults of a fellow believer.

tiny piece of straw

"speck" or "splinter" or "bit of dust." Use a word for the smallest thing that commonly falls into a person's eyes.

brother

All occurrences of "brother" in 7:3-5 refer to a fellow believer, not to a literal brother or a neighbor.

the log that is in your own eye

This is refers to a person's serious faults. Jesus is saying that a person should pay attention to his own serious faults before he deals with another person's less important faults.

log

the largest part of a tree that someone has cut down

Matthew 7:4

How can you say ... your own eye?

"You should not say ... your own eye."

Matthew 7:6

dogs ... pigs

Jews considered these animals dirty, and God told the Jews not to eat them. Jesus used these words to refer to wicked people who do not value holy things. It would be best to translate these words literally.

pearls

These are similar to round, valuable stones or beads. Jesus used this word to refer to the knowledge of God or precious things in general.

they may trample

"the pigs may trample"

then turn and tear

"the dogs will then turn and tear"

Matthew 7:7

Ask ... Seek ... Knock

These are word pictures of praying to God. The verb form shows that we are to keep praying until he answers.

Ask

"Ask for what you need" or "Ask God for what you need"

it will be given to you

"you will receive it" or "he will give it to you"

Seek

"Look for what you need"

Knock

"Call at the door"

it will be opened to you

"the door will be opened for you" or "God will open it for you"

Matthew 7:9

Or which one of you ... a stone?

"There is not one person among you ... a stone."

a loaf of bread

"some food"

stone

This word should be translated literally.

Matthew 7:10

Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake?

"And there is not one person among you, if his son asks for a fish, will give him a snake."

fish ... snake

These words should be translated literally.

Matthew 7:11

how much more will your Father in heaven give ... him?

"then your Father in heaven will most certainly give ... him."

Father

This refers to God the Father. It is best to translate “Father” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human father.

Matthew 7:12

for this is the law and the prophets

"for this is what Moses and the prophets teach in the scriptures"

Matthew 7:13

Enter through the narrow gate ... many people who go through it

This is an image of people traveling on a road and going through a gate into a kingdom. One kingdom is easy to enter; the other is hard to enter.

Wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction

"The gate is wide and the road is broad that leads to destruction" or "The wide gate and the broad road lead to destruction"

to destruction

"to the place where people are destroyed"

Matthew 7:14

the gate is narrow and the way is difficult that leads to life

"the narrow gate and the difficult path lead to life"

to life

"to the place where people live"

Matthew 7:15

Beware of

"Be on guard against"

who come to you in sheep's clothing but are truly ravenous wolves

"who look like sheep but are really ravenous wolves" or "who appear to be harmless like sheep, but are really like ravenous wolves"

ravenous wolves

wolves that are extremely hungry and that consume or destroy everything they touch

Matthew 7:16

By their fruits you will know them

"Just as you know a tree by its fruit, you will know false prophets by how they act" or "You will know them by the results of their teaching”

Do people gather ... thistles?

"People do not gather ... thistles."

Matthew 7:17

every good tree produces good fruit

Jesus refers to good prophets who produce good works or words.

the bad tree produces bad fruit

Jesus refers to bad prophets who produce evil works.

Matthew 7:19

is chopped down and thrown into the fire

"people chop down and throw into the fire" or "people chop down and burn"

Matthew 7:20

you will recognize them by their fruits

"You will know what they are really like by their fruits"

Matthew 7:21

Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter

"Some who say to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will not enter"

will enter into the kingdom of heaven

"will live with God in heaven when he shows himself to be king"

only those who do the will of my Father who is in heaven

"only those who do what my Father in heaven wants will enter"

Matthew 7:22

in that day

"on judgment day"

did we not prophesy ... drive out demons ... do many miracles?

"we prophesied ... we drove out demons ... we did many miracles."

in your name

Possible meanings are 1) "by your authority" or "by your power" or 2) "because we were doing what you wanted us to do" or 3) "because we asked you for the power to do it"

Matthew 7:23

I never knew you

"You are not my follower" or "I have nothing to do with you"

Matthew 7:24

Therefore

"For that reason"

my words

"What I Say"

rock

This is the bedrock below the topsoil and clay, not a large stone or boulder above the ground.

Matthew 7:25

it was founded on the rock

"its foundation was on the rock" or he built it on the firm rock"

Matthew 7:26

like a foolish man who built his house upon the sand

Jesus compares those who do not obey his words to foolish house-builders. Only a fool would build a house on a sandy place where rain, floods, and wind can sweep the sand away.

Matthew 7:27

fell

collapsed

its destruction was complete

:It was completely destroyed"

Matthew 7:28

It came about that when

"When" or "After"

were astonished by his teaching

"were amazed by the way he taught"

Matthew 7:29

as one who had authority

"with authority"

Chapter 8

¹ When Jesus had come down from the hill, large crowds followed him. ² Behold, a leper came to him and bowed before him, saying, "Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean."

³ Jesus reached out his hand and touched him, saying, "I am willing. Be clean." Immediately he was cleansed of his leprosy.

⁴ Jesus said to him, "See that you say nothing to any man. Go on your way, show yourself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a testimony to them."

⁵ When he was coming into Capernaum, a centurion came to him, begging him ⁶ and saying, "Lord, my servant lies at home paralyzed and in terrible agony."

⁷ Then Jesus said to him, "I will come and heal him."

⁸ The centurion answered and said, "Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof. Only say the word and my servant will be healed. ⁹ For I also am a man under authority, and I have soldiers under me. I say to this one, 'Go,' and he goes, and to another one, 'Come,' and he comes, and to my servant, 'Do this,' and he does it."

¹⁰ When Jesus heard this, he was amazed and said to those who were following him, "Truly I say to you, I have not found anyone with such faith in Israel.

¹¹ I tell you, many will come from the east and the west, and they will recline at the table with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven. ¹² But the sons of the kingdom will be cast out into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and grinding of teeth." ¹³ Jesus said to the centurion, "Go! As you have believed, so may it be done for you." And the servant was healed at that very hour.

¹⁴ When Jesus had come into Peter's house, he saw Peter's mother-in-law lying sick with a fever. ¹⁵ Jesus touched her hand, and the fever left her. Then she got up and started serving him.

¹⁶ When evening had come, the people brought to Jesus many who were possessed by demons. He drove out the spirits with a word and healed all who were sick. ¹⁷ This was to fulfill what was spoken through Isaiah the prophet, saying,

"He took our illnesses

and bore our diseases."

¹⁸ Now when Jesus saw the crowd around him, he gave instructions to leave for the other side of the Sea of Galilee. ¹⁹ Then a scribe came to him and said, "Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go."

²⁰ Jesus said to him, "Foxes have holes, and the birds of the sky have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head."

²¹ Another of the disciples said to him, "Lord, allow me first to go and bury my father."

²² But Jesus said to him, "Follow me, and leave the dead to bury their own dead."

²³ When Jesus had entered a boat, his disciples followed him into it. ²⁴ Behold, there arose a great storm on the sea, so that the boat was covered with the waves. But Jesus was asleep. ²⁵ The disciples came to him and woke him up, saying, "Save us, Lord; we are perishing!"

²⁶ Jesus said to them, "Why are you afraid, you of little faith?" Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the sea. Then there was a great calm.

²⁷ The men marveled and said, "What sort of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him?"

²⁸ When Jesus had come to the other side and to the country of the Gadarenes, two men who were possessed by demons met him. They were coming out of the tombs and were very violent, so that no traveler could pass that way. ²⁹ Behold, they cried out and said, "What do we have to do with you, Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before the set time?"

³⁰ Now a herd of many pigs was there feeding, not too far away from them. ³¹ The demons kept pleading with Jesus and saying, "If you cast us out, send us away into that herd of pigs."

³² Jesus said to them, "Go!" The demons came out and went into the pigs; and behold, the whole herd rushed down the steep hill into the sea and they died in the water.

³³ Those who had been tending the pigs ran away and they went into the city and reported everything, especially what had happened to the men who had been possessed by demons. ³⁴ Behold, all the city came out to meet Jesus. When they saw him, they begged him to leave their region.

Matthew 8

8:1-9

Why did the leper bow before Jesus?

[8:2]

A leper bowed before Jesus. He did this to honor Jesus. He believed that Jesus could heal him and make him clean.

See: Leprosy (Leper); Clean and Unclean

Why did Jesus touch the leper?

[8:3]

Jesus touched the leper. This would have been shocking. When someone touches a leper, they can become a leper too. When someone touched a leper, they became unclean (see: Leviticus 5:3). However, Jesus healed this man when he touched him and made him clean.

See: Leprosy (Leper); Clean and Unclean

Why did Jesus tell the leper not to tell anyone he had been healed?

[8:4]

See: Messianic Secret

Why did the leper go to the priest?

[8:4]

According to the Law of Moses, the leper needed to go to the priest after he was healed to be declared clean (see: Leviticus 14:2-8). He wanted this man to go to the priest so they priest would see him and know that Jesus healed the leper. No one had been healed of leprosy in a very long time (see: Numbers 12). When they saw this man, the priests should have known that Jesus is the messiah.

See: Law of Moses, Leprosy (Leper); Clean and Unclean; Priest (Priesthood); Messiah (Christ)

Where was Capernaum?

[8:5]

See Map: Capernaum

What was a centurion?

[8:5]

A centurion was a type of Roman soldier. They led 100 soldiers.

Why did the centurion think that he was not worthy to have Jesus in his home?

[8:8]

This centurion believed that Jesus deserves great honor. He deserved so much honor, that he thought he was too great to enter into his home. He thought that this would dishonor him in some way. This man knew that God gave Jesus permission to do many things. He even believed that his servant could be healed when Jesus spoke.

8:10-17

Why was Jesus amazed at the centurion?

[8:10]

Jesus was amazed at the centurion man. He was a powerful man and he was a Gentile. Despite this, he trusted in Jesus and believed he had great power from God. This is what the Jews should have believed about Jesus, but they did not.

See: Gentile

Who will eat at the table in the kingdom of heaven?

[8:11]

Jesus said people from all over the world will eat at the table with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven. That is, Gentiles from all over the world will believe in Jesus and be in the kingdom of heaven with the Jews who believe in Jesus. However, the sons of the kingdom, that is, the unbelieving Jews, would not be in the kingdom of heaven. That is, many Jews would not be in the kingdom because they reject Jesus.

See: Gentile; Kingdom of God

Who was Peter’s mother-in-law?

[8:14]

Matthew wrote about Peter’s mother-in-law, that is, the mother of Peter’s wife. Some scholars think Peter was married at this time. Fewer scholars think Peter was married before he began to follow Jesus and his wife died before he met Jesus.

Why did Matthew write that this woman got up and started serving Jesus?

[8:15]

Matthew wrote that this woman got up and served Jesus after he healed her. When he wrote this, people knew that Jesus healed her immediately and completely when he touched her. She did not get better over a long period of time.

What was demon possession?

[8:16]

See: Demon Possession (Casting Out Demons)

How did Jesus drive out spirits?

[8:16]

Matthew wrote that Jesus drove out spirits. That is, Jesus cast out demons from people by speaking to them.

See: Demon Possession (Casting Out Demons))

Where did Isaiah say these words?

[8:17]

Isaiah said these words many years before Jesus was born (see: Isaiah 53:4). When Jesus healed people, Matthew wrote that it fulfilled Isaiah’s prophecy.

See: Fulfill (Fulfillment); Prophecy (Prophesy)

8:18-34

Where was the sea of Galilee?

[8:18]

See Map: Sea of Galilee

Why did Jesus speak in this way to the scribe and the person who followed him?

[8:19, 8:20]

Jesus spoke in a certain way to the scribe. This is because Jesus knew what the scribe thought and believed. He said that because he served God, Jesus was always moving from one place to another place. He told this man he must be willing to give up everything to follow him.

The other person, who was a follower of Jesus, wanted to wait to completely follow Jesus. Jesus knew that by him wanting to wait, the follower of Jesus did not really believe in Jesus. If he did, then he would have immediately followed Jesus.

Advice to translators: In this verse (Matthew 8:21), Matthew wrote about a disciple. This was a man who followed Jesus. He was not one of the twelve disciples.

See: Son of Man; Scribe

How were the dead to bury the dead?

[8:22]

Jesus told a man to let the dead bury the dead. This was a metaphor. Jesus spoke about the people who rejected him as being dead in some way. That is, they were spiritually dead. This meant that they could not know or understand things about God. Jesus wanted this man to let these dead people bury his father so that he could follow Jesus.

See: Die (Death); Metaphor

Why did Jesus rebuke the disciples?

[8:26]

Some scholars think Jesus rebuked the disciples because they were afraid that the boat would sink and they would die. They did not trust that God would protect Jesus and them.

See: Disciple

Why were the disciples amazed?

[8:27]

The disciples were amazed that Jesus rebuked the wind and the seas. In ancient Israel, people believed the no one could control the seas. No one can control the weather except God. This amazed the disciples because they saw Jesus do something only God could do.

See: Disciple

Where was the country of the Gadarenes?

[8:28]

See Map: Gadarenes

Why did the demon possessed man call Jesus the Son of God?

[8:29]

The demon possessed man called Jesus the Son of God. This is because the demon knew that Jesus is the Son of God.

See: Demon Possession (Casting Out Demons); Son of God; Demon

What was the set time?

[8:29]

The demons talked about a set time. They knew that there was a time when Jesus would judge them. They also knew that it was not time for Jesus to judge all of the demons.

See: Demon; Judge (Judgment)

Why did the demons want to go into a herd of pigs?

[8:30, 8:31]

The demons asked Jesus to be sent into a herd of pigs. According to the Law of Moses, pigs were unclean. Matthew did not say why they wanted to go into the pigs. Perhaps the demons wanted to have control of the pigs in the same way as they controlled the two men.

See: Matthew 12:43

See: Demon; Law of Moses; Clean and Unclean

Why did the pigs kill themselves?

[8:32]

Matthew wrote that the pigs killed themselves after the demons entered into them. He did not say why they did this.

See: Demon

Why did the people want Jesus to leave Gadarenes?

[8:34]

After the pigs died, the people who cared for the pigs went into the city and told people about what happened. They told them that the two men had been healed. They did not have demons in him anymore.

After they heard what happened to the pigs, the people in Gadarenes wanted Jesus to leave. The demons caused many pigs to die. These pigs were worth a lot of money. They worried that something else would happen and they would lose a lot more money. They did not care that Jesus healed the demon possessed men. They rejected Jesus after they saw that he did these things.

See: Demon Possession (Casting Out Demons); Demon

Matthew 8:2

Behold

The word "behold" alerts us to a new person in the story. Your language may have a way of doing this.

a leper

"a man who had leprosy" or "a man who had a skin disease"

bowed before him

This is a sign of humble respect before Jesus.

if you are willing

"if you want to"

you can make me clean

"you can heal me" or "please heal me"

Matthew 8:3

he was cleansed of his leprosy

"At that moment the leprosy left him" or "the leprosy ended" or "he became well"

Matthew 8:4

say nothing to any man

"do not say anything to anyone" or "do not tell anyone I healed you"

show yourself to the priest

Jewish law required that the person show his healed skin to the priest, who would then allow him or her to return to the community, to be with other people.

offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a testimony to them

The law of Moses required that someone healed of leprosy give a thanksgiving offering to the priest. When the priest accepted the gift, people would know that the man had been healed.

to them

This can possibly refer to 1) the priests or 2) all the people or 3) the critics of Jesus. If possible, use a pronoun that could refer to any of these groups.

Matthew 8:5

When he was coming into Capernaum

"When Jesus was coming into Capernaum"

Matthew 8:6

paralyzed

unable to move because of disease or stroke

Matthew 8:7

I will come and heal him

"I will come to your house and make your servant well"

Matthew 8:8

under my roof

"into my house"

say the word

"give the command"

will be healed

"will become well"

Matthew 8:9

I also am a man under authority, and I have soldiers under me

"I also have to obey my leaders, and I have soldiers who have to obey me"

Matthew 8:10

Truly I say to you

"I tell you the truth." This phrase adds emphasis to what Jesus says next.

I have not found anyone with such faith in Israel

Jesus's hearers would have thought that the Jews in Israel, who claim to be children of God, would have greater faith than anyone. Jesus is saying they are wrong and that the centurion's faith was greater.

Matthew 8:11

you

Here "you" is plural and refers to "those who were following him" in Matthew 8:10.

from the east and the west

"from everywhere" or "from far away in every direction"

recline at the table

"sit at the feast"

in the kingdom of heaven

"when our God in heaven shows that he is king"

Matthew 8:12

sons of the kingdom will be cast out

"God will throw the sons of the kingdom out"

the sons of the kingdom

"the citizens of the kingdom"or "those who should have allowed God to rule over them"

the outer darkness

"the distant dark place"

weeping and grinding of teeth

"weeping and showing their extreme suffering"

Matthew 8:13

so may it be done for you

"so may it happen to you" or "so I will do it for you"

the servant was healed

"the servant became well"

at that very hour

"at the exact time Jesus said he would heal the servant"

Matthew 8:14

Peter's mother-in-law

"the mother of Peter's wife"

Matthew 8:15

the fever left her

"the fever ended"

Matthew 8:16

many who were possessed by demons

"many people whom demons possessed" or "many people whom demons controlled"

He drove out the spirits with a word

"By speaking, he made the spirits go away" or "He commanded the spirits to leave and they left"

Matthew 8:17

This was to fulfill

"Jesus did this to fulfill"

what was spoken through Isaiah the prophet

"what Isaiah the prophet had spoken"

He took our illnesses and bore our diseases

"Truly he took our illnesses"

Matthew 8:18

Now

This word is used here to mark a change in the main story. Here Matthew starts to tell a new part of the story.

he gave instructions

"he told his disciples"

Matthew 8:19

Then

This means after Jesus "gave instructions" but before he could get into the boat.

Matthew 8:20

Foxes have holes, and the birds of the sky have nests

This means even wild animals have somewhere to rest.

Foxes

Foxes are animals like dogs. make holes in the ground to live in.

the Son of Man

"I, the Son of man" or "the man from heaven" or "the One who became a human"

nowhere to lay his head

"no place of his own to sleep"

Matthew 8:21

allow me first to go and bury my father

It is unclear whether the man's father has died and he will bury him immediately, or if the man wants to wait until his father dies so he can bury him before he follows Jesus.

Matthew 8:22

leave the dead to bury their own dead

"let spiritually dead people bury their own people who have died." The main point is that a disciple must not let anything delay him from following Jesus.

Matthew 8:24

Behold

"Suddenly" or "Without warning"

there arose a great storm on the sea

"a powerful storm arose on the sea"

so that the boat was covered with the waves

"so that the waves covered the boat"

Matthew 8:25

woke him up, saying, "Save us

Possible meanings are 1) they first woke Jesus and then they said, "Save us" or 2) as they were waking Jesus up, they were saying "Save us."

we are perishing

"we are going to die" or "we are about to die"

Matthew 8:26

Why are you afraid ... faith?

This question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "You should not be afraid ... faith!" or "There is nothing for you to be afraid of ... faith!"

you of little faith

"you who have such little faith." Jesus addresses his disciples this way because their anxiety about the storm shows they have little faith in him to control it. See how you translated this in (Matthew 6:30).

Matthew 8:27

What sort of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him?

"This man is unlike any other person! Even the wind and the waves obey him!"

Matthew 8:28

to the other side

"to the other side of the Sea of Galilee"

the Gadarenes

This name refers to the people who lived in the town of Gadara.

They ... were very violent, so that no traveler could pass that way

The demons that were controlling these two men were so dangerous that no one could go through that area.

Matthew 8:29

Behold

This word introduces something surprising. Your language may have a way of doing this.

What do we have to do with you, Son of God?

"You have nothing to do with us, Son of God!" or "You have no right to bother us, Son of God!"

Son of God

This is an important title for Jesus, which describes his relationship to God.

Have you come here to torment us before the set time?

"You have no right to punishment us before the time for that!"

Matthew 8:30

Now

This word is used here to mark a pause in the story. Here Matthew tells background information about a herd of pigs that had been there before Jesus arrived.

Matthew 8:31

If you cast us out

"Because you are going to cast us out"

Matthew 8:32

The demons came out and went into the pigs

"The demons left the men and entered the pigs"

behold

This alerts us to pay attention to the surprising information that follows.

rushed down the steep hill

"ran quickly down the steep slope"

they died in the water

"they fell into the water and drowned"

Matthew 8:33

tending the pigs

"taking care of the pigs"

Matthew 8:34

Behold

This word introduces another surprising event.

all the city

The word "city" here refers to the people of the city. The word "all" is probably an exaggeration to emphasize that very many people came out. Not necessarily every person came out.

Their Region

"their area"

Chapter 9

¹ Jesus entered a boat, crossed over, and came into his own city. ² Behold, they brought to him a paralyzed man lying on a mat. Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralyzed man, "Son, be encouraged. Your sins have been forgiven."

³ Behold, some of the scribes said among themselves, "This man is blaspheming." ⁴ Jesus knew their thoughts and said, "Why are you thinking evil in your hearts? ⁵ For which is easier, to say, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Get up and walk'? ⁶ But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins, ... " he said to the paralytic, "Get up, pick up your mat, and go to your house."

⁷ Then the man got up and went away to his house. ⁸ When the crowds saw this, they were afraid and glorified God, who had given such authority to people. ⁹ As Jesus passed by from there, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax collector's tent. He said to him, "Follow me." He got up and followed him.

¹⁰ As Jesus sat down to eat in the house, behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and dined with Jesus and his disciples. ¹¹ When the Pharisees saw it, they said to his disciples, "Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?"

¹² When Jesus heard this, he said, "People who are strong in body do not need a physician; only those who are sick do. ¹³ You should go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy and not sacrifice.' For I came not to call the righteous to repent, but sinners."

¹⁴ Then the disciples of John came to him and said, "Why do we and the Pharisees often fast, but your disciples do not fast?"

¹⁵ Jesus said to them, "Can the sons of the wedding hall mourn while the bridegroom is still with them? But the days will come when the bridegroom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast.

¹⁶ No man puts a piece of new cloth on an old garment, for the patch will tear away from the garment, and a worse tear will be made.

¹⁷ Neither do people put new wine into old wineskins. If they do, the skins will burst, the wine will be spilled, and the wineskins will be destroyed. Instead, they put new wine into fresh wineskins, and both will be preserved."

¹⁸ While Jesus was saying these things to them, behold, an official came and bowed down to him. He said, "My daughter has just now died, but come and lay your hand on her, and she will live." ¹⁹ Then Jesus got up and followed him, and so did his disciples.

²⁰ Behold, a woman who suffered from a discharge of blood for twelve years came up behind Jesus and touched the edge of his garment. ²¹ For she had said to herself, "If only I touch his clothes, I will be made well."

²² But Jesus turned and saw her, and said, "Daughter, take courage; your faith has made you well." And the woman was healed from that hour.

²³ When Jesus came into the official's house, he saw the flute players and the crowd making a commotion. ²⁴ He said, "Go away, for the girl is not dead, but she is asleep." But they laughed at him in mockery.

²⁵ When the crowd had been put outside, he entered the room and took her by the hand, and the girl got up. ²⁶ The news about this spread into all that region.

²⁷ As Jesus passed by from there, two blind men followed him. They kept shouting and saying, "Have mercy on us, Son of David!"

²⁸ When Jesus had come into the house, the blind men came to him. Jesus said to them, "Do you believe that I can do this?"

They said to him, "Yes, Lord."

²⁹ Then Jesus touched their eyes and said, "Let it be done to you according to your faith," ³⁰ and their eyes were opened. Then Jesus strictly commanded them and said, "See that no one knows about this." ³¹ But the two men went out and spread the news about this throughout that region.

³² As those two men were going away, behold, a mute man possessed by a demon was brought to Jesus. ³³ When the demon had been driven out, the mute man spoke. The crowds were astonished and said, "This has never been seen before in Israel!"

³⁴ But the Pharisees were saying, "By the ruler of the demons, he drives out demons."

³⁵ Jesus went about all the cities and the villages. He continued teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom and healing all kinds of disease and all kinds of sickness. ³⁶ When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were troubled and discouraged. They were like sheep without a shepherd.

³⁷ He said to his disciples, "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. ³⁸ Therefore urgently pray to the Lord of the harvest, so that he may send out laborers into his harvest."

Matthew 9

9:1-9

Where was Jesus’ own city?

[9:1]

Jesus went to his own city, Capernaum (see: Matthew 4:13).

See Map: Capernaum

Why did these men bring the paralyzed man to Jesus?

[9:2]

Men brought a paralyzed man to Jesus. These men believed in Jesus and knew that he could heal this man who could not walk. Because he knew this man believed in him, Jesus spoke that he forgave this man’s sins.

See: Mark 2:3-4; Luke 5:17-26

See: Sin

Why did the scribes think Jesus blasphemed?

[9:3]

The scribes thought that Jesus blasphemed because he forgave this man’s sins. They knew that only God could forgive sins. Therefore, they thought Jesus tried to do something that only God could do. However, they did not know that Jesus is God.

See: Scribe; Blaspheme (Blasphemy); Sin; Jesus is God

How did Jesus know what the scribes were thinking?

[9:4]

Jesus knew what the scribes were thinking because he is God. Therefore, he knew they were thinking evil things.

See: Scribe; Jesus is God

What did Jesus mean by saying, “which is easier to say”?

[9:5]

Jesus asked the scribes whether it was easier to tell this man that his sins were forgiven or to tell him to get up and walk. It was easier for someone to say your sins are forgiven because no one knew whether this man’s sins were forgiven except God. However, if someone told this paralyzed man to walk and he could not, then everyone knew he could not heal the paralyzed man.

Jesus said these things so that the people could know that he could do both of these things.

See: Scribe; Sin

Why were the people afraid?

[9:8]

When the people saw these things, they were “afraid”(φοβέω/g5399). They were not scared of Jesus. Instead, they were amazed that Jesus could do these things. Because of this, they glorified God. They were amazed that God gave Jesus permission to do these things.

See: Glory (Glorify)

9:10-17

What was a tax collector?

[9:10]

Matthew was a tax collector. People in Israel hated the tax collectors. Tax collectors were Jews who worked for the Roman government. They paid the Romans so they could collect taxes from other people. If they collected more taxes than they paid the Roman government, then they were allowed to keep it. Because of this, many tax collectors became rich. The Jews thought a Jewish tax collector betrayed the Jewish people because they took money from the Jews and gave it to the Romans. They thought tax collectors were evil because they took money from people who honored God and gave it to people who rejected God.

See: Tax (Tax Collector, Toll)

Who were sinners?

[9:10]

Matthew wrote about sinners. All people sinned. However, these were people who sinned in a way that other people knew they sinned. People judged them as evil. The Jews would not be friends with these people. The Pharisees would not eat with them because they thought they were unclean.

See: Sin; Clean and Unclean; Pharisees; Judge (Judgment)

Why were people needing a physician?

[9:12]

Jesus talked about people needing a physician. This was a metaphor. He wanted people to know that people who sinned needed Jesus to forgive them. Because of this, all people needed Jesus to forgive them. The Pharisees also needed Jesus to forgive their sins.

See: Metaphor; Sin; Pharisees

Why does God want mercy and not sacrifice?

[9:13]

God said that he wanted mercy and not sacrifice (see: Hosea 6:6). Sacrifices were part of the Law of Moses. God wanted sacrifice, but he did not want people to make sacrifices to him in the wrong way. That is, if people did not love one another or show mercy to one another, their sacrifices would be given in the wrong way.

See: Mercy; Sacrifice; Law of Moses

Who did Jesus come to call?

[9:13]

Jesus said that he came to earth to call certain people to God. That is, he wanted to make it so that sinners could be at peace with God. He did not do this for righteous people, that is, people who thought they were righteous and did not need to be forgiven. However, there is no one who is righteous (see: Romans 3:10).

See: Call (Calling); Righteous (Righteousness); Pharisees; Repent (Repentance)

Why did the Pharisees fast, but the disciples did not fast?

[9:14]

Certain people who followed Jesus asked him why the Pharisees fasted but his disciples did not fast. In ancient Israel, people fasted when they were sad. However, the disciples were not sad because Jesus was with them. It was not a time for them to fast. Rather, it was a time for them to celebrate. Jesus told them that the disciples would fast after he died.

See: Fasting; Pharisees; Disciple

Why did Jesus talk about garments and wineskins?

[9:16, 9:17]

Jesus talked about putting a cloth patch on a garment. If someone put a new piece of cloth on an old piece of clothing, the new piece of cloth would become smaller and cause the clothing to rip. Wineskins were bags of leather that held wine. When someone put wine into an old wineskin, it would burst open. This was a metaphor. He wanted to say that he was going to do something different than the Pharisees. Scholars think that Jesus taught people to do different things than were taught in the Law of Moses.

See: Metaphor; Pharisees; Law of Moses

9:18-31

Why did this man bow before Jesus?

[9:18]

This man bowed before Jesus. This was a way to honor Jesus. He believed that Jesus was able to bring his daughter back to life just by touching her.

Why did this woman touch Jesus?

[9:20]

A woman was constantly bleeding for 12 years. She thought that if she touched Jesus, it would heal her. However, this could not heal her. Jesus knew that she believed in him and because of this, he healed her. She was healed because she trusted in Jesus.

Why was there many people in this man’s house?

[9:23]

There were many people in this man’s house. They were playing music and many people were very sad. In ancient Israel, this happened when someone died.

Why did these men call Jesus the son of David?

[9:27]

These blind men called Jesus the son of David. They believed Jesus is the Messiah. The Messiah needed to be a descendant of David who would fulfill the covenant God made to David (see: 2 Sam. 7).

See: Messiah (Christ); Fulfill (Fulfillment); Covenant; Son of David; Covenant with David

Why did Jesus not want the blind men to tell other people Jesus healed them?

[9:30]

See: Messianic Secret

9:32-38

What was a mute man?\

[9:32]

A mute man was someone who could not talk. Perhaps this man could not talk because he was possessed by demons.

See: Demon Possession (Casting Out Demons)

How did the Pharisees think that Jesus drove out demons?

[9:34]

The Pharisees said that Satan gave Jesus permission to remove demons from people.

See: Pharisees; Demon Possession (Casting Out Demons); Demon; Satan (The Devil)

What was a synagogue?

[9:35]

See: Synagogue

What was preaching the gospel?

[9:35]

See Preach (Preacher); Gospel

What did it mean that people were like sheep without a shepherd?

[9:36]

Jesus said the people were like sheep without a shepherd. This was a metaphor. The people did not have anyone to lead them and to teach them about how to live in a way that honors God. The Pharisees could not do this.

See: Shepherd; Metaphor; Pharisees

How was the harvest plentiful, but the laborers few?

[9:37]

Jesus said that the harvest was plentiful but the laborers few. This was a metaphor. There were many people who wanted to learn about Jesus, but there were few people who could go and tell them about Jesus. Therefore, he told the people to pray and ask God to get people to do this.

See: Harvest

Matthew 9:1

into his own city

"to the town where he lived." This refers to Capernaum.

Matthew 9:2

they brought

"some men from the city brought"

Son

The man was not Jesus's real son. Jesus was speaking to him politely. If this is confusing, it can also be translated "My friend" or "Young man" or even omitted.

Your sins have been forgiven

"I have forgiven your sins"

Matthew 9:3

said among themselves

Possible meanings are 1) each one was thinking to himself, or 2) they were speaking among themselves.

blaspheming

The scribes thought that Jesus was insulting God because he claimed do something that only God can do.

Matthew 9:4

knew their thoughts

Jesus knew what they were thinking

Why are you thinking evil in your hearts?

'You are thinking evil in your hearts." or "You should not think evil thoughts."

evil

This is moral evil or wickedness, not simply error in fact.

Matthew 9:5

For which is easier, to say, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Get up and walk'?

"For it is easier to say 'Your sins are forgiven' than it is to say 'Get up and walk.'"

Your sins are forgiven

"I have forgiven your sins"

Matthew 9:6

go to your house

Jesus is not forbidding the man to go elsewhere. He is giving the man the opportunity to go home.

Matthew 9:8

they were afraid

Possible meanings are 1) they were afraid, or 2) they were in awe. "Awe" is a feeling of wonder a person has when they see or experience something great or powerful.

who had given

"because he had given"

such authority

This refers to the authority to declare sins forgiven.

Matthew 9:9

passed by

"was leaving" or "was going"

Matthew ... him ... He

Church tradition says that this Matthew is the author of this Gospel, but the text gives no reason to change the pronouns from "him" and "He" to "me" and "I."

He said to him

"Jesus said to Matthew"

He got up and followed him

"Matthew got up and followed Jesus." This means Matthew became Jesus's disciple.

Matthew 9:10

the house

This is probably Matthew's house, but it could also be Jesus's house. Specify only if needed to avoid confusion.

behold

Here this word introduces a surprising event. Your language may have a way of doing this

sinners

people who did not obey the law of Moses but committed what others thought were very bad sins

Matthew 9:11

When the Pharisees saw it

"When the Pharisees saw that Jesus was eating with the tax collectors and sinful people"

Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?

"Your teacher should not eat with tax collectors and sinner." The Pharisees were criticizing what Jesus was doing.

Matthew 9:12

When Jesus heard this

"When Jesus heard what the Pharisees said about him"

People who are strong in body do not need a physician, only those who are sick

"People who are healthy do not need a doctor; only people who are sick need a doctor." Jesus means that just as sick people need a doctor, sinners need him.

Matthew 9:13

You should go and learn what this means

Jesus is about to quote the scriptures. Alternate translation: "You should learn what God meant when he said this"

For I came

Here "I" refers to Jesus.

the righteous

"those who think they are righteous"

but sinners

"but I came to call sinners to repent"

Matthew 9:14

do not fast

“do not stop eating at certain times” or “continue to eat regularly”

Matthew 9:15

Can the sons of the wedding hall mourn while the bridegroom is still with them?

"The sons of the wedding hall never mourn while the bridegroom is still with them."

sons of the wedding hall

"bridegroom's attendants"

the days will come when

"the time will come when" or "someday"

the bridegroom will be taken away from them

"the bridegroom will not be able to be with them any longer" or "someone will take the bridegroom away from them"

Matthew 9:16

No man puts a piece of new cloth on an old garment

"No one sews a piece of new cloth on an old garment" or "People do not sew a piece of new cloth as a patch old clothing"

the patch will tear away from the garment

If someone were to wash the garment, the patch of new cloth would shrink, but the old garment would not shrink. This would tear the patch off the garment and leave a bigger hole.

Matthew 9:17

Neither do people put

"Neither does anyone pur" or "People never put"

new wine

"unfermented wine" or "grape juice" or "unfermented fruit juice"

old wineskins

This refers to wineskins that have stretched and dried out because they were already used for fermenting wine.

wineskins

"wine bags" or "skin bags." These were bags made out of animal skins.

the wine will be spilled, and the wineskins will be destroyed

"and this will ruin the wineskins and spill the wine"

the skins will burst

When the new wine ferments and expands, old wineskins tear open because they can no longer stretch out.

fresh wineskins

"new wineskins" or "new wine bags." This refers to wineskins that no one has used.

both will be preserved

"this will keep safe both the wineskins and the wine"

Matthew 9:18

behold

The word "behold" alerts us to a new person in the story. Your language may have a way of doing this.

bowed down to him

This is a way someone would show respect in Jewish culture.

Matthew 9:19

his disciples

"Jesus's disciples"

Matthew 9:20

Behold

The word "Behold" alerts us to a new person in the story. Your language may have a way of doing this.

who suffered from a discharge of blood

"who had been bleeding" or "who frequently had a flow of blood." She was probably bleeding from her womb even when it was not the normal time for it. Some cultures may have a polite way of referring to this condition.

his garment

"his robe" or "what he was wearing"

Matthew 9:21

For she had said to herself, "If only I touch his clothes, I will be made well."

She said this to herself before she touched Jesus's garment. This tells why she touched Jesus's garment.

Matthew 9:22

Daughter

The woman was not Jesus's real daughter. Jesus was speaking to her politely. If this is confusing, it can also be translated "Young woman" or even omitted.

your faith has made you well

"because you believed in me, I will heal you" or “because you believed, you will become well”

the woman was healed from that hour

“the woman became well at that moment”

Matthew 9:23

Connecting Statement:

This returns to the account of Jesus bringing the daughter of the Jewish official back to life.

the flute players and the crowd making a commotion

This was a common way to mourn for someone who has died.

and the crowd making a commotion

"and the crowd making a lot of noise" or "and the noisy crowd"

Matthew 9:24

Go away

Jesus said this to the crowd.

the girl is not dead, but she is asleep

It was common in Jesus's day to refer to a dead person as one who "sleeps." But here the dead girl will get up, as though she had only been sleeping.

Matthew 9:25

When the crowd had been put outside

"After Jesus had sent the crowd outside" or "After the family had sent the people outside"

Matthew 9:26

The news about this spread into all that region

"The people of that whole region heard about it" or "The people who saw that the girl was alive started telling everyone in the whole area about it"

Matthew 9:27

passed by

"was leaving" or "was going"

followed him

This means they were walking behind Jesus, not necessarily that they had become his disciples.

Son of David

Jesus was not David’s literal son. Here “Son of David” is a title for the Messiah. Alternate Translation: “Descendant of David”

Matthew 9:28

When Jesus had come into the house

This could be either Jesus's own house or the house in Matthew 9:10.

Yes, Lord

"Yes, Lord, we believe you can heal us"

Matthew 9:29

Let it be done to you according to your faith

"I will do as you have believed" or "Because you believe, it will happen”

Matthew 9:30

their eyes were opened

"God healed their eyes" or "the two blind men were able to see"

See that no one knows about this

"Be sure no one finds out about this" or "Do not tell anyone that I healed you"

Matthew 9:31

spread the news

“told many people throughout that region what had happened to them”

Matthew 9:32

a mute man ... was brought to Jesus

"someone brought a mute man ... to Jesus"

a mute man

a man who was not able to talk

possessed by a demon

"whom a demon had possessed" or "whom a demon was controlling"

Matthew 9:33

When the demon had been driven out

"After Jesus had forced the demon out" or "After Jesus made the demon to leave"

the mute man spoke

"the man who had been mute spoke"

This has never been seen

“No one has ever seen anything like this before”

Matthew 9:34

he drives

The pronoun "he" refers to Jesus.

Matthew 9:35

cities ... villages

"large villages ... small villages" or "large towns ... small towns"

the gospel of the kingdom

“the good news that God will show himself as king”

all kinds of disease and all kinds of sickness

"every disease and every sickness." The words "disease" and "sickness" are closely related but should be translated as two different words if possible. "Disease" is what causes a person to be sick. "Sickness" is the physical weakness or affliction that results from having a disease.

Matthew 9:36

They were like sheep without a shepherd

"The people did not have a leader"

Matthew 9:37

The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few

Jesus said this to teach that there are a lot of people who are ready to believe God but only a few people to teach them about God.

The harvest is plentiful

"There is plenty of ripe food for someone to collect"

laborers

"workers"

Matthew 9:38

pray to the Lord of the harvest

"pray to God, because he is in charge of the harvest"

Chapter 10

¹ Jesus called his twelve disciples together and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to drive them out, and to heal all kinds of disease and all kinds of sickness.

² Now the names of the twelve apostles were these. The first, Simon (whom he also called Peter), and Andrew his brother; James son of Zebedee, and John his brother; ³ Philip, and Bartholomew; Thomas, and Matthew the tax collector; James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; ⁴ Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, who would betray him.

⁵ These twelve Jesus sent out. He instructed them and said, "Do not go to any place where Gentiles live, and do not enter any town of the Samaritans. ⁶ Go instead to the lost sheep of the house of Israel; ⁷ and as you go, preach and say, 'The kingdom of heaven is near.'

⁸ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, and cast out demons. Freely you have received, freely give. ⁹ Do not carry any gold, silver, or copper in your belts. ¹⁰ Do not take a traveling bag for your journey, or an extra tunic, or sandals, or a staff, for a laborer deserves his food.

¹¹ Whatever city or village you enter, find who is worthy in it, and stay there until you leave. ¹² As you enter into the house, greet it. ¹³ If the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it. But if it is not worthy, let your peace return to you.

¹⁴ As for those who do not receive you or listen to your words, when you depart from that house or city, shake off the dust from your feet. ¹⁵ Truly I say to you, it will be more bearable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment than for that city.

¹⁶ "See, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be as wise as serpents and innocent as doves. ¹⁷ Watch out for people! They will deliver you up to councils, and they will whip you in their synagogues. ¹⁸ Then you will be brought before governors and kings for my sake, as a testimony to them and to the Gentiles.

¹⁹ When they deliver you up, do not be anxious about how or what you will speak, for what to say will be given to you at that time. ²⁰ For it is not you who will speak, but the Spirit of your Father who will speak in you.

²¹ Brother will deliver up brother to death, and a father his child. Children will rise up against their parents and cause them to be put to death. ²² You will be hated by everyone because of my name. But whoever endures to the end, that person will be saved. ²³ When they persecute you in this city, flee to the next, for truly I say to you, you will not have gone through the cities of Israel before the Son of Man has come.

²⁴ "A disciple is not greater than his teacher, nor a servant above his master. ²⁵ It is enough for the disciple that he should be like his teacher, and the servant like his master. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebul, how much worse will be the names they call the members of his household!

²⁶ Therefore do not fear them, for there is nothing concealed that will not be revealed, and nothing hidden that will not be known. ²⁷ What I tell you in the darkness, say in the daylight, and what you hear softly in your ear, proclaim upon the housetops.

²⁸ Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but are unable to kill the soul. Instead, fear him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. ²⁹ Are not two sparrows sold for a small coin? Yet not one of them falls to the ground without your Father's knowledge. ³⁰ But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. ³¹ Do not fear. You are more valuable than many sparrows.

³² Therefore everyone who confesses me before men, I will also confess before my Father who is in heaven. ³³ But he who denies me before men, I will also deny before my Father who is in heaven.

³⁴ "Do not think that I came to bring peace upon the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword. ³⁵ For I came to set

a man against his father,

and a daughter against her mother,

and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.

³⁶ A man's enemies will be those of his own household.

³⁷ He who loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; he who loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. ³⁸ He who does not pick up his cross and follow after me is not worthy of me. ³⁹ He who finds his life will lose it. But he who loses his life for my sake will find it.

⁴⁰ "He who welcomes you welcomes me, and he who welcomes me also welcomes him who sent me. ⁴¹ He who welcomes a prophet in the name of a prophet will receive a prophet's reward, and he who welcomes a righteous man in the name of a righteous man will receive a righteous man's reward.

⁴² Whoever gives to one of these little ones even a cup of cold water to drink in the name of a disciple, truly I say to you, he will in no way lose his reward."

Matthew 10

10:1-15

Who were the twelve disciples and the twelve apostles?

[10:1, 10:2]

The twelve disciples and twelve apostles were the same twelve men.

See: Disciple; Apostle

What did it mean that Jesus sent out the disciples?

[10:5]

That Jesus sent out the disciples meant that he sent them into the towns near where they were. They were to tell other people about Jesus.

Why did Jesus tell the disciples not to go to the Gentiles or the Samaritans?

[10:5]

Jesus told the disciples not to go to the Gentiles or the Samaritans. At this time, he wanted them to go to the people of Israel and tell them about Jesus before they told the Gentiles and the Samaritans.

See: Gentile; Samaria; Disciple

How were the people of Israel lost sheep?

[10:6]

Jesus said the people of Israel were lost sheep. This was a metaphor. The people of Israel did not know that Jesus was their messiah. They did not know that Jesus was their king.

See: Metaphor; Kingdom of God

What did the disciples preach to people?

[10:7]

The disciples preached to people that the kingdom of heaven was near. Some scholars think this meant that Jesus offered to be the king ruling over Israel if they believed in him. Other scholars think Jesus meant that he wanted people to obey him and let him rule over their lives.

See: Matthew 3:2; 4:17

See: Disciple; Preach (Preacher); Kingdom of God

What did Jesus give the disciples permission to do?

[10:8]

Jesus gave the disciples permission to cast out unclean spirits. He also gave them permission to heal people.

See: Demon Possession (Casting Out Demons); Demon

How was someone raised from the dead?

[10:8]

See: Resurrect (Resurrection)

What was a leper?

[10:8]

See: Leprosy (Leper)

What was casting out demons?

[10:8]

See: Demon Possession (Casting Out Demons)

What have the disciples been freely given?

[10:8]

Jesus talked about the disciples being given something for free. That is, they were given the permission to preach the truth about Jesus, and to perform miracles. He wanted them to teach people about the truth of Jesus, and to do miracles without taking any money from people.

See: Disciple; Miracle

Why did Jesus not want the disciples to take many things with them?\

[10:9, 10:10]

Jesus did not want the disciples to bring money with them or many other things. He wanted them to trust God and he wanted other people to give them the things they needed as they went from one place to another.

See: Disciple

What was a traveling bag?

[10:10]

A traveling bag was something people put things in when they traveled.

What was an extra tunic?

[10:10]

The disciples were not to have two tunics. A tunic was the main piece of clothing worn against the skin.

See: Disciple

Why were the disciples to remain in one house?

[10:11]

The disciples were told to remain in one house. At this time, it was a great honor to have someone stay in your home. Jesus did not want his disciples to dishonor a host by leaving that house.

See: Disciple

Who was someone who was worthy?

[10:13]

Jesus spoke about someone and a house that was worthy. He was talking about going to a place and finding people who were willing to welcome the disciples into their homes. He did not want them to spend time with people who were going to reject Jesus.

Why were the disciples to shake the dust off their feet?

[10:14]

If the people in a town rejected the disciples, the disciples were told to shake the dust off their feet when they left the town. In ancient Israel, when someone shook the dust off their feet, this was a symbol. This meant they were not friends with the people in that town. It showed that the person shaking the dust off their feet rejected the people in the town.

See: Disciple; Symbol

What was the peace Jesus talked about?

[10:13]

Jesus talked about people being at peace and not being at peace. Some scholars think Jesus was talking about being at peace with God. Other scholars think Jesus was talking about have the peace that came with the kingdom of God.

See: Kingdom of God

What were Sodom and Gomorrah?

[10:15]

Sodom and Gomorrah were cities God punished for being very evil (see: Genesis 19). God completely destroyed these cities.

When is the day of judgment?

[10:15]

The day of judgment is the day of the lord.

See: Day of Judgment; Day of the Lord

10:16-23

Why did Jesus talk about these different animals?

[10:16]

Jesus said the disciples were sheep in the middle of wolves. This was a metaphor. They were going to places were people were going to try to harm them in some way or to destroy them. He also wanted the disciples to be as wise as serpents. People often thought serpents were the wisest of all animals. He wanted the disciples to be very wise. He also wanted them to be innocent as doves. That is, he did not want anyone to be able to say bad things about them.

See: Disciple; Metaphor

Why were people going to deliver the disciples to the councils?

[10:17]

Jesus said people were going to try to capture the disciples and send them to the council. That is, they were going to bring them to the Jewish leaders to be beaten because they preached about Jesus. They would do this in the synagogues.

See: Disciple; Synagogue; Jewish Council (Sanhedrin); Preach (Preacher)

How will the disciples speak to the governors and kings?

[10:18]

When the disciples were going to speak to the governors and kings, the Holy Spirit would help them to say the right things.

See: Disciple; Holy Spirit

When would these things happen?

[10:19]

Jesus was telling the disciples these things would happen in their time. However, he was also speaking about a time after he died. People will hate Christians because of Jesus’ name. That is, they will hate Christians because they believe in Jesus.

See: Disciple

How will Christians be saved?

[10:22]

Jesus said that people who “endure until the end” will be saved. Some scholars think Jesus will only let people who keep believing in him live with God in heaven forever. They think that if someone rejects Jesus, they are no longer at peace with God or were never at peace with God. Other scholars think that God promised to protect people during the tribulation.

See: Save (Salvation, Saved from Sins); Disciple; Heaven; Tribulation

What is persecution?

[10:23]

See: Persecute (Persecution)

When will the son of man come?

[10:23]

Jesus said that the disciples will not have gone through the cities of Israel before the son of man has come. Some scholars think that Jesus was speaking about returning to help Christians before the end of the tribulation. Other scholars think Jesus was speaking about Jesus returning to the earth after he died.

See: Daniel 7:13-14

See: Son of Man; Disciple; Tribulation; Resurrect (Resurrection) ; Jesus' Return to Earth

10:24-33

Why did Jesus talk about servants and masters?

[10:24, 10:25]

Jesus talked about servants and masters. Jesus wanted the disciples to do the same types of things that he did. He gave them permission to do these things. He wanted them to know that people would insult them for doing these things. They also insulted Jesus. Jesus wanted them to know that people insulted him the same way people will insult the disciples.

Certain people said that Jesus served Satan. These people feared the disciples less than they feared Jesus. Therefore, they may insult the disciples even more than they insulted Jesus.

See: Disciple; Satan (The Devil)

Who was Beelzebul?

[10:25]

Beelzebul was another name for Satan.

See: Satan (The Devil)

Why should the disciples not fear other people?

[10:26]

Jesus did not want the disciples to fear people who insulted them. This was because God would judge these people. God knows all the evil things they would do because nothing can be hidden from God.

See: Disciple; Judge (Judgment)

What did Jesus mean by saying, “What I tell you in the darkness”?

[10:27]

Jesus spoke to the disciples in the darkness. That is he told them things at night. He also talked to them when no one else was around. Now he wanted them to tell other people about the things he taught them.

See: Disciple

How was someone able to kill the body but not the soul?

[10:28]

Jesus said that the people who would persecute the disciples were able to kill them physically. However, they were not able to kill their soul. That is, they could not stop them from living with God in heaven forever.

See: Persecute (Persecution) ; Soul; Heaven

Who is able to kill the body and the soul?

[10:28]

Only God can kill a person’s body and soul. Only God can punish someone by sending them to live in hell forever.

See: Soul; Hell

Why did Jesus talk about sparrows?

[10:29]

Jesus talked about sparrows. These were small birds. People thought they were not worth much. This was a metaphor. God cared for even these small birds that people thought were worthless. He wanted people to know that God cared for them very much.

How does someone confess or deny Jesus?

[10:32, 10:33]

Jesus said that he would tell God the Father about people who confess, that is to acknowledge that Jesus is the messiah to other people. However, if they rejected Jesus in some way, then Jesus will reject them in some way. Some scholars think Jesus taught that people who deny Jesus were not truly Christians or they stopped being Christians. Other scholars think Jesus taught people that they would lose rewards if they denied Jesus in some way.

See: Confess (Confession); Reward; God the Father; Messiah (Christ)

10:34-42

Why did Jesus come to bring the sword to the earth?

[10:34]

Jesus taught people to love God and to love other people. He wanted people to forgive one another. However, he also said that he came to the earth to bring a sword and not to bring peace. This was a metaphor. A sword was used to divide. Jesus divided people. Jesus did not make it so that everyone was at peace with God. Only those who believe in Jesus are at peace with God. This is how Jesus divided people. Those who believe in him have peace. Those who reject Jesus will be punished. One must either believe in Jesus or reject him. A person cannot do both of these things.

See: Punish (Punishment)

Why will people be enemies with other people in their house?

[10:36]

Jesus divided people as Christians and non-Christians. Christians believe in Jesus. Non-christians reject Jesus. It did not matter what other people in someone’s house believed about Jesus. Every person must believe in Jesus for themselves to have peace with God. Those who rejected Jesus remained enemies of God and enemies of Christians.

Why did Jesus talk about mothers and fathers?

[10:37]

Jesus talked about mothers and fathers. He did this because he wanted people to know that he wanted people to love him more than they loved their own mother and father. How does someone pick up their cross?

Jesus spoke about someone picking up their cross. This was a metaphor. He wanted people to serve and obey him, even if it was difficult.

See: Cross; Metaphor

How will someone lose their life and find it and someone who finds his life lose it?

[10:39]

Jesus spoke about someone finding their life but losing it. This was a metaphor. He wanted to say that someone who did not want to serve Jesus would not live together with God in heaven forever. However, if someone was killed because they believed in Jesus, even though they died, they would live together with God in heaven forever.

See: Metaphor; Heaven

How did someone welcome a prophet in the prophet’s name and receive a prophet’s reward?

[10:41]

Jesus said that someone who welcomed a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward. He wanted them to know that whoever welcomed prophets to serve Jesus will be rewarded in some way. The disciples were prophets because they spoke the words God wanted them to say to other people.

See: Prophet; Reward; Disciple

How did someone welcome a righteous man in the name of a righteous man and receive a righteous man’s reward?

[10:41]

Jesus wanted people to know that whoever welcomed a righteous man into their towns and homes, because he served Jesus, will be rewarded in some way. People thought the disciples were righteous men.

See: Righteous (Righteousness); Reward; Disciple

How will someone be rewarded for giving someone a cup of water?

[10:42]

Jesus spoke about giving someone a cup of water to drink. This was a small way someone served another person. He wanted to say that if someone served Jesus, even in a small way, Jesus will reward this person.

See: Reward

Matthew 10:1

gave them authority ... sickness

Be sure that the text clearly communicates that this authority was 1) to drive out unclean spirits and 2) to heal disease and sickness.

to drive them out

"to make the unclean spirits leave"

Matthew 10:2

Now

This word is used here to mark a pause in the story. Here Matthew tells the names of the twelve apostles.

twelve apostles

This is the same group as the “twelve disciples” in Matthew 10:1.

first

This is first in order, not in rank. Peter was probably the first to become one of Jesus’ disciples.

Matthew 10:3

Matthew the tax collector

"Matthew, who was a tax collector"

Matthew 10:4

the Zealot

"the patriot" or "the nationalist" or 2) "the Zealot" is a description that shows that he was zealous for God to be honored.

who would betray him

"who would betray Jesus"

Matthew 10:5

General Information:

Although verse 5 begins by saying that he sent out the twelve, Jesus gave these instructions before he sent them out.

These twelve Jesus sent out

"Jesus sent out these twelve men" or "It was these twelve men whom Jesus sent out"

sent out

Jesus sent them out for a particular purpose.

He instructed them

"He told them what they needed to do" or "He commanded them"

Matthew 10:6

lost sheep of the house of Israel

“the people of Israel. They are like lost sheep”

house of Israel

"people of Israel" or "descendants of Israel"

Matthew 10:7

The kingdom of heaven is near

“Our God in heaven will soon show himself to be king”

Matthew 10:8

raise the dead

"cause the dead to live again"

Freely you have received, freely give

"Freely you have received these things, freely give them to others" or "You received these things without paying, so give them to others without making them pay"

Matthew 10:9

gold, silver, or copper

These are metals out of which coins were made. Alternate translation: "money"

belts

"purses" or "pouches"

Matthew 10:10

traveling bag

This could either be any bag used to carry things on a journey, or a bag used by someone to collect food or money.

an extra tunic

Use the same word you used for "tunic" in Matthew 5:40.

his food

"what he needs"

Matthew 10:11

Whatever city or village you enter

"Whenever you enter a city or village" or "When you go into any city or village"

worthy

A "worthy" person is a person who is willing to welcome the disciples.

stay there until you leave

"live in that person's house until you leave the town or village"

Matthew 10:12

As you enter into the house, greet it

“As you enter the house, greet the people who live in it”

Matthew 10:13

If the house is worthy

"If the people in that house receive you well" or "If the people who live in that house treat you well"

let your peace come upon it

"let them receive your peace" or "let them receive the peace that you greeted them with"

if it is not worthy

"if they do not receive you well" or "if they do not treat you well"

let your peace return to you

"take back your greeting of peace"

Matthew 10:14

As for those who do not receive you or listen

"If no people in that house or city will receive you or listen"

listen to your words

"listen to your message" or "listen to what you have to say"

shake off the dust from your feet

"shake the dust off your feet as you leave." This is a sign that God has rejected the people of that house or city.

Matthew 10:15

Truly I say to you

"I tell you the truth." This phrase adds emphasis to what Jesus says next.

it will be more bearable

"the suffering will be less"

the land of Sodom and Gomorrah

"the people who lived in the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah"

that city

"the people of the city that does not receive you"

Matthew 10:16

See, I send

"Look, I send" or "Listen, I send" or "Pay attention to what I am about to tell you. I send"

I send you out

Jesus is sending them out for a particular purpose.

as sheep in the midst of wolves

"as sheep among people who are like dangerous wolves" or "as sheep among people who act the way dangerous animals act"

be as wise as serpents and innocent as doves

"act with understanding and caution, as well as with innocence and virtue"

Matthew 10:17

will deliver you up to

"will put you under the control of"

councils

local religious leaders or elders who together keep peace in the community

whip you

"beat you with a whip"

Matthew 10:18

you will be brought

"they will bring you" or "they will drag you"

for my sake

"because you belong to me" or "because you follow me"

Matthew 10:19

When they deliver you up

"When people take you to the councils."

do not be anxious

"do not worry"

how or what you will speak

"how you are to speak or what you are to say." The two ideas may be combined: "what you are to say"

for what to say will be given to you

“for you will be told what to say” or “for the Holy Spirit will tell you what to say”

Matthew 10:20

the Spirit of your Father

If necessary, this can be translated as "the Spirit of God your heavenly Father" or a footnote can be added to make it clear that this refers to God the Holy Spirit and not to the spirit of an earthly father.

Father

This refers to God the Father. It is best to translate “Father” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human father.

in you

"through you"

Matthew 10:21

Brother will deliver up brother to death

“One brother will deliver up his brother to death” or “Brothers will hand their brothers over to authorities, who will execute them.” Jesus speaks of something that will happen many times.

a father his child

"fathers will deliver up their children to death"

rise up against

"rebel against" or "turn against"

cause them to be put to death

"have them put to death" or "have the authorities execute them"

Matthew 10:22

You will be hated by everyone

"Everyone will hate you" or "All people will hate you"

because of my name

"because of me" or "because you trust in me"

whoever endures

"whoever stays faithful"

to the end

It is not clear whether the "end" means when a person dies, when the persecution ends, or the end of the age when God shows himself to be king. The main point is that they endure as long as necessary.

that person will be saved

"God will save that person"

Matthew 10:23

in this city

"in one city"

flee to the next

"flee to the next city"

before the Son of Man has

"before I, the Son of Man, have"

Matthew 10:24

A disciple is not greater than his teacher, nor a servant above his master

Jesus is using a proverb to teach his disciples a general truth. Jesus is emphasizing that the disciples should not expect people to treat them any better than the people treat Jesus.

A disciple is not greater than his teacher

"A disciple is always less important than his teacher" or "A teacher is always more important than his disciple"

nor a servant above his master

"and a servant is always less important than his master" or "and a master is always more important than his servant"

Matthew 10:25

It is enough for the disciple that he should be like his teacher

"The disciple should be satisfied to become like his teacher"

the servant like his master

"the servant should be satisfied to become only as important as his master"

If they have called the master ... how much worse ... they call ... the members of his household

Again Jesus is emphasizing that since people have mistreated him, his disciples should expect people to treat them the same or worse.

how much worse would be the names they call the members of his household

"the names that they call the members of his household will certainly be much worse" or "they will certainly call the members of his household much worse names"

If they have called

"Since people have called"

Beelzebul

This name here refers to Satan. It can either be 1) transcribed as “Beelzebul” or 2) translated as “Satan.”

Matthew 10:26

do not fear them

“do not be afraid of those people” or “do not be afraid of people who might treat you badly”

there is nothing concealed that will not be revealed, and nothing hidden that will not be known

“everything that is concealed will be revealed, and everything that is hidden will be made known.”

Matthew 10:27

What I tell you in the darkness, say in the daylight

"What I tell you at night, say in the daytime"

what you hear softly in your ear

"what I whisper to you" or "what I say to you privately"

proclaim upon the housetops

"speak loudly in a public place"

Matthew 10:28

Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but are unable to kill the soul

"Do not be afraid of people. They can kill the body, but they cannot kill the soul"

kill the body

This means to cause physical death. If these words are awkward, they can be translated as "kill you" or "kill people."

fear him who is able to destroy

"fear God, because he is able to destroy"

body

the part of a person that can be touched, as opposed to the soul or spirit

soul

the part of a person that cannot be touched and that lives on after the physical body dies

fear him who is able

"fear God because he is able"

Matthew 10:29

Are not two sparrows sold for a small coin?

This question can be translated as a statement. "Two sparrows are sold for only a small coin." or "Sparrows have so little value that you can buy two of them for only one small coin."

sparrows

These are very small birds. Alternate translation: "small birds"

a small coin

This is often translated as the least valuable coin in your country. Alternate translation: "a penny" or "very little money"

not one of them falls to the ground without your Father's knowledge

"your Father knows when every one of them falls to the ground"

Father

This refers to God the Father. It is best to translate “Father” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human father.

Matthew 10:30

even the hairs of your head are all numbered

“God knows even how many hairs are on your head”

numbered

"counted"

Matthew 10:31

You are more valuable than many sparrows

"God values you more than many sparrows"

Matthew 10:32

everyone who confesses me ... I will also confess before my Father

"whoever confesses me ... I will also confess before my Father" or "if anyone confesses me ... I will also confess him before my Father"

confesses me before men

"tells others that he is my disciple" or "acknowledges before other people that he is loyal to me"

I will also confess before my Father who is in heaven

"I will also acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven that that person belongs to me"

Father

This refers to God the Father. It is best to translate “Father” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human father.

Matthew 10:33

he who denies me ... I will also deny before my Father

"whoever denies me ... I will also deny before my Father" or "if anyone denies me ... I will also deny him before my Father"

denies me before men

"denies to other people that he is loyal to me" or "refuses to acknowledge to others that he is my disciple"

I will also deny before my Father who is in heaven

"I will deny before my Father who is in heaven that this person belongs to me"

Matthew 10:34

upon the earth

"to the people of the earth" or "to people"

a sword

This refers to division, fighting, and killing among people.

Matthew 10:35

to set ... against

"to cause ... to fight against"

a man against his father

"a son against his father"

Matthew 10:36

A man's enemies

"A person's enemies"

those of his own household

"members of his own family"

Matthew 10:37

He who loves ... is not worthy

"Those who love ... are not worthy" or "If you love ... you are not worthy"

loves

"cares for" or "is devoted to" or "is fond of"

is not worthy of me

“does not deserve to belong to me” or “is not worthy to be my disciple”

Matthew 10:38

pick up his cross and follow after me

“obey me even to the point of suffering and dying”

Matthew 10:39

He who finds his life will lose it. But he who loses ... will find it

"Those who find their lives will lose them. But those who lose their lives ... will find them" or "If you find your life you will lose it. But if you lose your life ... you will find it"

finds his life

"tries to keep his life will lose it" or "tries to save his life will not have true life"

who loses his life for my sake

"who denies himself for my sake"

will find it

"will find true life"

Matthew 10:40

He who welcomes you

"Whoever welcomes you" or "Anyone who welcomes you"

He who welcomes you welcomes me

"When someone welcomes you, it is like he is welcoming me" or "If someone welcomes you, it is as if he were welcoming me"

him who sent me

God the Father who sent me"

Matthew 10:41

in the name of a prophet

“because that person is a prophet” or “because he knows that person is a prophet”

a prophet's reward

These phrases refer to the rewards that God gives to prophets and righteous men, not to rewards that prophets or righteous men give to other people.

in the name of a righteous man

“because that righteous man is a righteous man” or “because he knows that person is righteous.”

a righteous man's reward

This refers to the reward God gives to a righteous person.

Matthew 10:42

one of these little ones

"one of these lowly ones" or "the least important of these." This refers to Jesus's disciples.

in the name of a disciple

"because that person is a disciple" or "because he knows that that person is a disciple."

he will ... his reward

Here "he" and "his" refer to the one who is giving.

he will in no way lose his reward

"he will certainly receive his reward"

Chapter 11

¹ It came about that when Jesus had finished instructing his twelve disciples, he departed from there to teach and preach in their cities. ² Now when John heard in the prison about the deeds of the Christ, he sent a message by his disciples ³ and said to him, "Are you the one who is coming, or should we look for another?"

⁴ Jesus answered and said to them, "Go and report to John what you see and hear. ⁵ The blind are receiving sight, the lame are walking, lepers are being cleansed, the deaf are hearing again, the dead are being raised back to life, and the gospel is being preached to the poor. ⁶ Blessed is anyone who does not stumble because of me."

⁷ As these men went on their way, Jesus began to say to the crowds about John, "What did you go out in the desert to see—a reed being shaken by the wind? ⁸ But what did you go out to see—a man dressed in soft clothing? Really, those who wear soft clothing live in kings' houses.

⁹ But what did you go out to see—a prophet? Yes, I say to you, and much more than a prophet. ¹⁰ This is he of whom it was written,

'See, I am sending my messenger before your face,

who will prepare your way before you.'

¹¹ Truly I say to you that among those born of women, there has not arisen anyone greater than John the Baptist. Yet the least important person in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he is. ¹² From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and men of violence take it by force.

¹³ For all the prophets and the law have been prophesying until John; ¹⁴ and if you are willing to accept it, he is Elijah who was to come. ¹⁵ He who has ears to hear, let him hear.

¹⁶ To what should I compare this generation? It is like children sitting in the marketplaces calling out to the others, ¹⁷ saying:

'We played a flute for you,

and you did not dance.

We mourned,

and you did not weep.'

¹⁸ For John came not eating bread or drinking wine, and they say, 'He has a demon.' ¹⁹ The Son of Man came eating and drinking and they say, 'Look, he is a gluttonous man and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!' But wisdom is justified by her deeds."

²⁰ Then Jesus began to denounce the cities in which most of his miracles were done, because they had not repented. ²¹ "Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! If the miracles had been done in Tyre and Sidon which were done in you, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. ²² But I tell you it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the day of judgment than for you.

²³ You, Capernaum, do you think you will be exalted to heaven? No, you will be brought down to Hades. For if in Sodom there had been done the miracles that were done in you, it would still have remained until today. ²⁴ But I say to you that it will be easier for the land of Sodom in the day of judgment than for you."

²⁵ At that time Jesus said, "I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you concealed these things from the wise and understanding, and revealed them to little children. ²⁶ Yes, Father, for this was pleasing in your sight. ²⁷ All things have been entrusted to me from my Father; and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.

²⁸ Come to me, all you who labor and are heavy burdened, and I will give you rest. ²⁹ Take my yoke on you and learn from me, for I am meek and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. ³⁰ For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

Matthew 11

11:1-6

What was a disciple?

[11:1]

See: Disciple

What was preaching?

[11:2]

See: Preach (Preacher)

Which John was Matthew writing about?

[11:2]

Matthew wrote about John the Baptist here.

What did John’s disciples ask Jesus?

[11:3]

People who followed John the Baptist asked Jesus if he was “the one who is coming.” They wanted to know if Jesus was the messiah. John already knew that Jesus was the Messiah (see: Matthew 3:11). Here, John wanted Jesus to tell him again that he was the messiah. Perhaps he wanted to know why he was in prison if Jesus was the Messiah. Or perhaps Jesus did not do the things John thought the messiah would do.

See: Messiah (Christ)

What did it mean that someone was lame?

[11:5]

Someone who was lame could not walk.

What was a leper?

[11:5]

According to the Law of Moses, a leper is not unclean.

See: Leprosy (Leper); Clean and Unclean; Law of Moses

How are the dead raised back to life?

[11:5]

Jesus said the dead are raised back to life. That is, they are resurrected.

See: Resurrect (Resurrection)

How did Jesus preach the gospel?

[11:5]

Jesus preached the gospel to the poor.

See: Preach (Preacher); Gospel

How was someone blessed?

[11:6]

Jesus said blessed is anyone who does not stumble because of him. This was a metaphor. He wanted to say the people who believed he was the messiah would be blessed.

See: Bless (Blessing); Metaphor; Messiah (Christ); Stumble (Stumbling Block)

11:7-19

What were the things Jesus had to say about John the Baptist?

[11:7]

Jesus talked to the crowd about John the Baptist. John the Baptist lived in the desert and wore clothing that was not comfortable. Jesus talked about a reed shaken by the wind. He wanted to say that John did not change because of what people thought about him. He did what God wanted him to do no matter what people said. He did not live in the way powerful kings lived. Instead, he lived as a prophet lived. He focused on telling people about God, not on living in a certain way.

See: Prophet

How was John greater than a prophet?

[11:9]

John the Baptist was a prophet. However, he did something that no previous prophet did. He prophesied to prepare people for the coming of the Messiah. John’s message was the greatest message of all.

See: Malachi 3:1

See: Prophet; Prophecy (Prophesy) ; Messiah (Christ)

How was someone in the kingdom of heaven greater than John the Baptist?

[11:11]

Jesus said that John the Baptist was the greatest person who ever lived, except Jesus. However, anyone who lives in the kingdom was greater than John the Baptist. That is, anyone who lives in the kingdom, was greater in some way that anyone who lived under the Law of Moses.

See: Kingdom of God; Law of Moses

How did the kingdom of heaven suffer violence?

[11:12]

Some scholars think the kingdom was being violently attacked. That is, there was evil forces attacked the kingdom of God. These scholars think an example of this was John the Baptist being put into prison and then later killed because he spoke about the messiah (see: Mark 6:17-29). Other scholars think the kingdom was forcefully advancing into the world. That is, Jesus was casting out demons and performing miraculous signs, showing the power of the kingdom of God.

See: Kingdom of God; Demon Possession (Casting Out Demons); Miracle; Sign

What was the Law and the Prophets?

[11:13]

See: Old Testament (Law and Prophets)

How was John the return of Elijah?

[11:14]

Malachi prophesied that the prophet Elijah would return (see: Malachi 4:5-6). Jesus taught the people that John the Baptist was the fulfillment of the prophecy about the return of Elijah. That is, Malachi was prophesying about a man who was like Elijah would return, and that man was John.

See: Prophecy (Prophesy) ; Prophet; Fulfill (Fulfillment)

Why did Jesus say the Jews were like children?

[11:16]

Jesus said that these Jews were like children. This was metaphor. Just like children will complain when no one dances to their songs, so the people complained against all of God’s prophets, including John the Baptist and Jesus.

See: Metaphor; Prophet

What was a gluttonous man?

[11:19]

A gluttonous man was someone who ate too much. They spend most of their life eating and thinking about eating.

What was a drunkard?

[11:19]

A drunkard was someone who drank too much alcohol and often became drunk.

What was a tax collector?

[11:19]

See: Tax (Tax Collector, Toll))

Who were sinners?

[11:19]

See: Sin; Clean and Unclean; Pharisees; Judge (Judgment)

How was wisdom justified by her deeds?

[11:19]

Jesus said that wisdom was justified by her deeds. This was a metaphor. He wanted to say that he and John were right for living in the way they did. The way they lived helped people to know that they served God because they did the things God sent them to do.

See: Metaphor

11:20-30

Why did Jesus reproach certain cities?

[11:20]

Jesus reproached certain cities. He rebuked the people who lived in these cities because they rejected him. The people in these cities did not repent.

See: Repent (Repentance)

Where were Chorazin, Bethsaida, Tyre, and Sidon?

[11:21, 11:22]

See: Map: Chorazin; Bethsaida; Tyre and Sidon

Why did people wear sackcloth and ashes?

[11:21]

People wore sackcloth and ashes when they were mourning or to show people they were sad. Sackcloth was a rough cloth and was known to irritate the skin. To wear sackcloth was a sign that the people repented.

See: Sign; Repent (Repentance)

Where was Capernaum?

[11:23]

See Map: Capernaum

Why did Jesus talk about Sodom?

[11:23]

Sodom was an ancient city. The people of Sodom were very evil (see: Genesis 19). No one in Sodom obeyed God. Jesus was saying that if he had done the same kind of miracles in Sodom as he did in the regions around Jerusalem, the people of Sodom would have repented. But, because the cities of Chorazin, Bethsaida, Tyre, and Sidon rejected Jesus, these cities would be punished more than Sodom in the day of judgement.

See: Day of the Lord; Day of Judgment; Miracle

Why was Jesus pleased that God only helped certain people to know about him?

[11:25]

Jesus praised God because he concealed things from people who thought they were wise. When Jesus said that God “revealed them to little children” he used a metaphor. That is, Jesus said that God revealed his truth to people who were humble and knew they needed help from God.

See: Wise (Wisdom, Fool); Humble (Humility); Reveal (Revelation)

How did Jesus talk about himself and God the Father?

[11:27]

Scholars think Jesus spoke about himself and God the Father as being one. That is, they are of the same nature and character. They know each other perfectly.

See: God the Father; Son of God; Trinity

How does God reveal?

[11:27]

See: Reveal (Revelation)

What did Jesus mean when he said, “I will give you rest”?

[11:28]

Jesus said, “I will give you rest.” Some scholars think Jesus meant that he will refresh those who were weary. Other scholars think Jesus meant that he would encourage and strengthen them to do difficult things. In addition, people can be at rest because they are at peace with God.

What was a yoke?

[11:29, 11:30]

A “yoke” was a thick wooden beam that was set across the neck and shoulders of animals. This allowed the animals to pull heavy loads in a cart, or to pull a plow. When Jesus spoke about a yoke, he used a metaphor. That is, Jesus was willing to share any burden or hardship a Christian might have in their life.

See: Metaphor

Matthew 11:1

It came about that when

"Then when" or "After"

had finished instructing

"had finished teaching" or "had finished commanding."

in their cities

“in the cities of the Jews”

Matthew 11:2

Now

This word is used here to mark a new part of the story.

when John heard in the prison about

"Now John had been put in prison. When he heard about" or "When John, who was in prison, heard about"

he sent a message by his disciples

John the Baptist sent his own disciples with a message to Jesus.

Matthew 11:3

said to him

"said to Jesus"

Are you the one who is coming

"Are you the one whom we are expecting to come." This is another way to refer to the Messiah or Christ.

should we look for another

"should we be expecting someone else"

Matthew 11:4

report to John

"tell John"

Matthew 11:5

lepers are being cleansed

“people who have leprosy are becoming well”

the dead are being raised back to life

“people who have died live again”

the gospel is being preached to the poor

“poor people are hearing the gospel”

the poor

"poor people"

Matthew 11:7

Connecting Statement:

Jesus talks to the crowds about John the Baptist. He uses questions to cause the people to think about what kind of person John the Baptist is. These questions can be translated as sentences.

What did you go out in the desert to see—a reed ... wind?

"Surely you did not go out to the desert to see a reed ... wind!"

a reed being shaken by the wind

"a man who easily changes his mind and is like a reed being shaken by the wind"

being shaken by the wind

"swaying in the wind" or "blowing in the wind"

Matthew 11:8

But what did you go out to see—a man ... clothing?

“And surely you did not go out to the desert to see a man ... clothing!”

dressed in soft clothing

"wearing expensive clothing." Rich people wore this kind of clothing.

Matthew 11:9

But what did you go out to see—a prophet?

"Surely you went out to the desert to see a prophet!"

and much more than a prophet

"and he is much more than a prophet"

much more than

much more important than

Matthew 11:10

This is he of whom it was written

"He is the one about whom a prophet wrote long ago" or "This is what a prophet wrote long ago about John the Baptist"

I am sending my messenger

The pronouns "I" and "my" refer to God. The prophet was quoting what God said.

before your face

"in front of you" or "to go ahead of you"

prepare your way before you

This means the messenger will prepare the people to receive the Messiah's message.

Matthew 11:11

Truly I say to you

"I tell you the truth." This phrase adds emphasis to what Jesus says next.

among those born of women, there has not arisen anyone greater than John the Baptist

"no one born of women has been a greater prophet than John the Baptist"

among those born of women

"out of all people who have ever lived"

the least important person in the kingdom of heaven

"the least important person under the rule of our God in heaven"

is greater than he is

"is more important than John is"

Matthew 11:12

From the days of John the Baptist

"From the time John began preaching his message"

the kingdom of heaven suffers violence

This could mean 1) "enemies violently attack the kingdom of heaven" or 2) "the kingdom of heaven has been coming forcefully."

and men of violence take it by force

This could mean 1) "and violent people forcefully take it" or 2) "and forceful people grab onto it."

Matthew 11:13

all the prophets and the law have been prophesying until John

“these are the things that the prophets and Moses have prophesied through the scriptures until the time of John the Baptist”

Matthew 11:14

he is Elijah who was to come

“John is the one a prophet spoke about when he said that Elijah would come”

Matthew 11:15

He who has ears to hear, let him hear

“The one who is willing to listen, let him listen” or “Let the one who is willing to listen to me understand and obey what I say”

He who has ... let him hear

“You who have ears ... listen”

Matthew 11:16

To what should I compare this generation?

This is what this generation is like.”

this generation

"the people living now" or "these people" or "you people of this generation"

marketplaces

large, open-air areas where people buy and sell items

Matthew 11:17

We played a flute for you, and you did not dance

"We played the flute for you, but you did not dance to the happy music"

We mourned, and you did not weep

"We mourned, but you did not cry with us"

Matthew 11:18

not eating bread or drinking wine

This could mean 1) that John did not eat expensive food or 2) that John fasted often. John also did not drink wine.

they say, 'He has a demon.'

"they say that he has a demon."

they say

“people say”

Matthew 11:19

The Son of Man came

"I, the Son of Man, came"

came eating and drinking

This is the opposite of John's behavior. This means Jesus celebrated and enjoyed good food and drink like other people did.

they say, 'Look, he is a gluttonous man and a drunkard ... sinners!'

“he eats too much and drinks too much wine”

he is a gluttonous man and a drunkard

"he is a greedy eater and a drunk" or "he continually eats too much food and drinks too much alcohol"

But wisdom is justified by her deeds

Jesus said this because the people who rejected both him and John were not being wise. Jesus and John the Baptist are the wise ones, and the results of their deeds prove it.

wisdom is justified by her deeds

“a person’s wisdom is proved by what he does” or “the results of a wise person’s deeds prove that he is wise”

Matthew 11:20

denounce the cities

"began to rebuke the people of the cities" or "accuse the people of the cities of doing wrong"

in which most of his miracles were done

"in which he did most of his miracles"

miracles

"mighty works" or "works of power"

Matthew 11:21

Woe to you

"How terrible it will be for you"

Chorazin ... Bethsaida ... Tyre ... Sidon

These are the names of cities.

Chorazin ... Bethsaida

"people of Chorazin ... people of Bethsaida"

If the miracles ... in sackcloth and ashes

Jesus is describing a situation that could have happened in the past, but it did not.

If the miracles had been done in Tyre and Sidon which were done in you

"If someone had done the miracles among the people of Tyre and Sidon that I have done among you"

Matthew 11:22

it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the day of judgment than for you

“God will show more mercy to the people of Tyre and Sidon in the day of judgment than to you” or “God will punish you more severely at the day of judgment than the people of Tyre and Sidon”

Matthew 11:23

Capernaum ... Sodom

The names of these cities refer to the people living in Capernaum and in Sodom.

do you think you will be exalted to heaven?

"you will not be raised up to heaven!" or "God will not bring you up to heaven like you think he will!"

you will be brought down to Hades

"you will go down to Hades" or "God will send you down to Hades"

For if in Sodom ... it would still have remained until today

Jesus is describing a situation that could have happened in the past, but it did not.

if in Sodom there had been done the miracles that were done in you

Matthew 11:24

it will be easier for the land of Sodom in the day of judgment than for you

“God will show more mercy to the people of Sodom in the day of judgment than to you” or “God will punish you more severely in the day of judgment than the people of Sodom”

Matthew 11:25

Father

This refers to God the Father. It is best to translate “Father” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human father.

Lord of heaven and earth

"Lord who rules over heaven and earth" or "Lord of everyone everywhere"

you concealed these things from ... and revealed them to

"you hid these truths from ... and revealed them to" or "you have not made these things known to ... and you made them known to"

the wise and understanding

"people who think they are wise and understanding"

to little children

"to people who are like little children." Jesus is emphasizing that many of those who believe him either are not well educated or do not think of themselves as wise.

Matthew 11:26

for this was pleasing in your sight

“for it pleased you to do this” or “for you considered it good to do this”

Matthew 11:27

All things have been entrusted to me from my Father

"My Father has entrusted all things to me" or "My Father has given everything over to me." This could mean that 1) God the Father has revealed everything about himself and his kingdom to Jesus or 2) God has given all authority to Jesus.

my Father

This refers to God the Father. It is best to translate “Father” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human father.

no one knows the Son except the Father

These are important titles that describe the relationship between God and Jesus. It is best to translate “Father” and “Son” with the same words that your language uses to refer to a human father and a human son. The word "knows" here means more than just being acquainted with someone. It means knowing someone intimately because of having a special relationship with him.

the Son

This refers to Jesus, the Son of God. It is best to translate “Son” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human son.

no one knows the Father except the Son and ... him

"only the Son and ... him know the Father"

Matthew 11:28

all you

All occurrences of "you" are plural.

who labor and are heavy burdened

“who are tired and carry a heavy burden” or “who are tired from trying to keep all the laws and feel like they are carrying a heavy burden”

I will give you rest

"I will allow you to rest from your labor and burden"

Matthew 11:29

Take my yoke on you

"wear the yoke that I put on you" or

I am meek and lowly in heart

"I am gentle and humble"

you will find rest for your souls

"you will find rest for yourselves" or "you will be able to rest"

Matthew 11:30

Take my yoke on you

"wear the yoke that I put on you" or

I am meek and lowly in heart

"I am gentle and humble"

you will find rest for your souls

"you will find rest for yourselves" or "you will be able to rest"

Chapter 12

¹ At that time Jesus went on the Sabbath day through the grainfields. His disciples were hungry and began to pluck heads of grain and eat them. ² But when the Pharisees saw that, they said to Jesus, "See, your disciples do what is unlawful to do on the Sabbath."

³ But Jesus said to them, "Have you never read what David did when he was hungry, and the men who were with him? ⁴ He went into the house of God and ate the bread of the presence, which was unlawful for him to eat and unlawful for those who were with him, but lawful only for the priests.

⁵ Have you not read in the law that on the Sabbath the priests in the temple profane the Sabbath but are guiltless? ⁶ But I say to you that one greater than the temple is here.

⁷ If you had known what this meant, 'I desire mercy and not sacrifice,' you would not have condemned the guiltless. ⁸ For the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath."

⁹ Then Jesus left from there and went into their synagogue. ¹⁰ Behold, there was a man who had a withered hand. The Pharisees asked Jesus, saying, "Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath?" so that they might accuse him of sinning.

¹¹ Jesus said to them, "What man would there be among you, who, if he had just one sheep, and if this sheep fell into a pit on the Sabbath, would not take hold of it and raise it out? ¹² How much more valuable, then, is a man than a sheep! Therefore it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath."

¹³ Then Jesus said to the man, "Stretch out your hand." He stretched it out, and it was restored to health, just like the other hand. ¹⁴ But the Pharisees went out and plotted against him. They were seeking how they might destroy him.

¹⁵ Jesus, knowing this, withdrew from there. Many people followed him, and he healed them all. ¹⁶ He commanded them not to make him known to others, ¹⁷ that it might be fulfilled, what had been said through Isaiah the prophet, saying,

¹⁸ "See, my servant whom I have chosen;

my beloved one, in whom my soul is well pleased.

I will put my Spirit upon him,

and he will proclaim justice to the Gentiles.

¹⁹ He will not strive nor cry aloud;

neither will anyone hear his voice in the streets.

²⁰ He will not break any bruised reed;

he will not quench any smoking flax,

until he leads justice to victory,

²¹ and in his name the Gentiles will have hope."

²² Then someone blind and mute, possessed by a demon, was brought to Jesus. He healed him, with the result that the mute man spoke and saw. ²³ All the crowds were amazed and said, "Can this man be the Son of David?"

²⁴ But when the Pharisees heard of this miracle, they said, "This man does not cast out demons except by Beelzebul, the prince of the demons."

²⁵ But Jesus knew their thoughts and said to them, "Every kingdom divided against itself is made desolate, and every city or house divided against itself will not stand.

²⁶ If Satan drives out Satan, he is divided against himself. How then will his kingdom stand? ²⁷ And if I drive out demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your sons drive them out? For this reason they will be your judges.

²⁸ But if I drive out demons by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you. ²⁹ How can anyone enter the house of the strong man and take away his belongings without tying up the strong man first? Then he will steal his belongings from his house. ³⁰ The one who is not with me is against me, and the one who does not gather with me scatters.

³¹ Therefore I say to you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven. ³² Whoever speaks any word against the Son of Man, that will be forgiven him. But whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit, that will not be forgiven him, neither in this world, nor in that which is to come.

³³ Make a tree good and its fruit good, or make the tree bad and its fruit bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit. ³⁴ You offspring of vipers, since you are evil, how can you say good things? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. ³⁵ The good man from the good treasure of his heart produces what is good, and the evil man from the evil treasure of his heart produces what is evil.

³⁶ I say to you that in the day of judgment people will give an account for every idle word they will have said. ³⁷ For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned."

³⁸ Then certain scribes and Pharisees answered Jesus and said, "Teacher, we wish to see a sign from you."

³⁹ But Jesus answered and said to them, "An evil and adulterous generation seeks for a sign. But no sign will be given to it except the sign of Jonah the prophet. ⁴⁰ For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the stomach of the big fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.

⁴¹ The men of Nineveh will stand up at the judgment with this generation of people and will condemn it. For they repented at the preaching of Jonah, and see, someone greater than Jonah is here.

⁴² The Queen of the South will rise up at the judgment with the men of this generation and condemn them. She came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and see, someone greater than Solomon is here.

⁴³ When an unclean spirit has gone away from a man, it passes through waterless places and looks for rest, but does not find it. ⁴⁴ Then it says, 'I will return to my house from which I came.' Having returned, it finds the house empty—it had been swept clean and put in order. ⁴⁵ Then it goes and takes along with it seven other spirits more evil than itself, and they all come in to live there. Then the final condition of that man becomes worse than the first. It will be just like that with this evil generation."

⁴⁶ While Jesus was still speaking to the crowds, behold, his mother and his brothers stood outside, seeking to speak to him. ⁴⁷ Someone said to him, "Look, your mother and your brothers stand outside, seeking to speak to you."

⁴⁸ But Jesus answered and said to him who told him, "Who is my mother and who are my brothers?" ⁴⁹ Then he stretched out his hand toward his disciples and said, "See, here are my mother and my brothers! ⁵⁰ For whoever does the will of my Father who is in heaven, that person is my brother, and sister, and mother."

Matthew 12

12:1-8

Why did the Pharisees think that it was wrong to pluck heads of grain and eat them?

[12:2]

The pharisees thought that it was against the Law of Moses to pluck heads of grain and eat them on the Sabbath. This is because they thought it was work, which was forbidden on the Sabbath. However, they misunderstood the Law of Moses regarding the picking of grain on the Sabbath.

See: Deuteronomy 23:25

See: Law of Moses; Sabbath; Pharisees

How did Jesus tell the pharisees that the disciples did not break the Law of Moses?

[12:3, 12:4, 12:5]

Jesus told the Pharisee that the disciples did not break the Law of Moses. They were allowed to do this because they were traveling and hungry. This was similar to what King David did (see: 1 Samuel 21:1-6). He also told them that the priests violated the rules the Pharisees made about the sabbath by working in the temple on the Sabbath. He also wanted them to know that he is greater than the Sabbath. Jesus created the Sabbath and the rules for the Sabbath. This made him ruler over the Sabbath.

See: Temple; Sabbath; Son of Man; Pharisees; Disciple; Priest (Priesthood)

What was the house of God?

[12:4]

The temple was the house of God.

See: Temple

Why did God desire mercy and not sacrifice?

[12:7]

God said that he wanted mercy and not sacrifice (see: Hosea 6:6). God wanted sacrifice, but he did not want people to make sacrifices to him in the wrong way. That is, if people did not love one another or show mercy to one another, their sacrifices would be given in the wrong way.

See: Mercy; Offer (Offering); Sacrifice

12:9-23

Why did the Pharisees want to ask Jesus about healing this man on the Sabbath?

[12:10]

The Pharisees asked Jesus about healing this man on the Sabbath. They taught that someone could not be healed on the Sabbath unless that person was going to die. If someone healed this person, then this was work and broke the Law of Moses. They wanted Jesus to heal this man so they could tell people that Jesus sinned. However, this was not sin. They just thought it was a sin.

The pharisees thought that it was not against the Law of Moses to help their sheep on the Sabbath. Therefore, Jesus wanted them to know that it was also good to heal this man on the sabbath because people are more valuable that animals. He wanted the pharisees to think about this and know that they were wrong in their thinking.

See: Pharisees; Sabbath; Law of Moses; Sin

Why did the Pharisees want to destroy Jesus?

[12:14]

The Pharisees were angry after Jesus healed this man. They thought he sinned and he made them look like they were evil.

See: Pharisees; Sin

Why did Jesus not want people to tell other people about the things he did?

[12:16]

See: Messianic Secret

How did Jesus fulfill the words of Isaiah?

[12:17, 12:18, 12:19, 12:20, 12:21]

Jesus fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah (see: Isaiah 42:1-4) by serving God. The Holy Spirit gave him power to do great things. He taught the Gentiles about how to live in a way that honors God. He was humble and compassionate.

See: Gentile; Fulfill (Fulfillment); Prophecy (Prophesy) ; Holy Spirit

How did the Gentiles have hope in Jesus’ name?

[12:21]

The Gentiles could be at peace with God if they believed in Jesus. At this time, the Jews did not think the Gentiles could be at peace with God.

See: Gentile; Name

How was someone possessed by a demon?

[12:22]

See: Demon Possession (Casting Out Demons)

Who was the Son of David?

[12:23]

The Son of David was the messiah. He was the one who fulfilled the promises God made to David (see: 2 Samuel 7).

See: Covenant with David ; Messiah (Christ); Son of David; Fulfill (Fulfillment)

12:24-37

Who was Beelzebul?

[12:24]

Beelzebul was a name for Satan. Satan was the prince of the demons. He ruled the demons. However, God ruled Satan.

See:Luke 11:17-23

See: Satan (The Devil); Demon

How did the Pharisees think Jesus was able to remove demons from people?

[12:24]

The Pharisees said that Satan gave Jesus permission to remove demons from people.

See: Pharisees; Demon Possession (Casting Out Demons); Demon; Satan (The Devil)

What was meant by the words, a “kingdom divided against itself”?

[12:25]

A “kingdom divided against itself” referred to a nation or country that divided itself into groups and then fought against each other.

What did it mean that a kingdom divided against itself “is made desolate”?

[12:25]

A kingdom “is made desolate” when the country or nation was destroyed. That is, there would be only a few people left alive and the country would be ruined.

Why did Jesus ask the Pharisees, about driving out demons?

[12:27]

Jesus’ question was a rebuke to the Pharisees. Jesus condemned the Pharisees’ followers for doing the same things they accused Jesus of doing. However, Jesus did not do these things.

How were people with or against Jesus?

[12:30]

Jesus said that people were either with him or against him. That is, people either fought with him in some way or against him in some way. When he said this, he wanted to say that people could either believe in him or reject him. They could not do both of these things at the same time.

What was the blasphemy of the Holy Spirit?

[12:31}

Scholars think different things about how someone blasphemes the Holy Spirit.

Some scholars think Jesus spoke about people rejecting him. If someone does not believe in Jesus, then they will not be forgiven of their sins.
Some scholars think Jesus spoke about someone seeing Jesus do miracles and saying that Satan gave him the power to do this. Therefore, people today cannot blaspheme the Holy Spirit.
Other scholars think Jesus spoke about people who said that the Holy Spirit did not do the things that he did.

See: Sin; Blaspheme (Blasphemy); Holy Spirit; Miracle; Satan (The Devil)

Why did Jesus talk about trees and fruit?

[12:33]

Jesus talked about trees and fruit. This was a metaphor. Scholars think different things about what this metaphor meant:

Some scholars Jesus compared himself to a tree, and the miracles he did as the fruit. They think Jesus was telling the Pharisees that they could not say that his miracles were good, but that he, as a person, was bad.
Some scholars think Jesus was speaking about the Pharisees. That is, the things they did were different from the things they said they believed.

See: Metaphor; Fruit (Metaphor); Pharisees

What did Jesus mean by calling the Pharisees the “offspring of vipers”?

[12:34]

Some scholars think Jesus was saying the Pharisees were men whose ancestor was the serpent himself, that is, the Devil. Scholars think Jesus used the metaphor of a viper to show that the Pharisees were both evil and dangerous.

See: Pharisees; Metaphor

What were the treasures of someone’s heart?

[12:35]

The treasures of a person’s heart was a metaphor. That is, from deep within a person’s mind and soul comes what that person truly believes, whether good or evil.

See: Heart (Metaphor); Metaphor; Mind; Soul

What is the day of judgment?

[12:36]

See: Day of Judgment

How was someone justified?

[12:37]

See: Justify (Justification)

How is someone condemned?

[12:37]

See: Condemn (Condemnation)

12:38-50

What was an “adulterous generation”?

[12:39]

When Jesus spoke about an “adulterous generation” he used a metaphor. Some scholars think Jesus was speaking directly to the Scribes and Pharisees, and told them they were an “adulterous generation”. That is, the Scribes and Pharisees did not truly obey and follow God completely.

See: Metaphor; Adultery; Generation; Scribe; Pharisees

What was a sign?

[12:39]

See: Sign

What was the “sign of the prophet Jonah”?

[12:39]

Jonah was a prophet in ancient Israel (see: Jonah 1-4). He was swallowed by a very large fish and was in the fish for three days. After three days, he was released. Something like this was going to happen to Jesus. He would die and after three days, he would come back to life.

See: Resurrect (Resurrection) ; Son of Man; Prophet; Sign

Where was Nineveh?

[12:41]

See Map: Nineveh

How were the people of Nineveh going to judge the Jews?

[12:41]

When Jesus spoke about standing up to judge the Jews, he used a metaphor. When God sent Jonah the prophet to Nineveh to speak for God, the people there repented. However, when God sent Jesus into the world, the Scribes and Pharisees rejected Jesus and the things he taught. Therefore in some way, this will serve as a judgment against people who do not repent from their evil ways, that they might obey and follow Jesus.

See: Metaphor; Repent (Repentance); Prophet; Scribe; Pharisees; Judge (Judgment)

See Map: Nineveh

See: Jonah 3:1-10

Who was the Queen of the South?

[12:42]

Jesus spoke about the queen of the south. He was thinking about the Queen of Sheba (see: 1 Kings 10). Her country was far to the south of Israel.

See Map: Sheba

What was an unclean spirit?

[12:43]

See: Demon

What were waterless places?

[12:43]

Waterless places referred to areas that were dry, or a desert. The demons wandered through those areas, but did not stay there.

See: Demon

What was meant by the words, “it finds that house swept out and put in order”?

[12:44]

When Jesus spoke about a house being “swept out and put in order” he used a metaphor. That is, he was speaking about a person who had a demon cast out from him. When that person did not believe in Jesus the house remained empty, and therefore able to be inhabited once again by demons.

See: Metaphor; Demon; Demon Possession (Casting Out Demons)

Who were Jesus’ mother and brothers?

[12:46]

When Jesus was speaking, his mother and brothers wanted to speak with him. This was his mother Mary and her sons. Jesus told them about another type of mother and brother. Scholars think Jesus wanted people to know that people who obeyed God were his true family.

See: Family of Jesus; Family of God

What is the will of God?

[12:50]

See: Will of God

Matthew 12:1

grainfields

This is a place to plant grain. If there is no word for grains, then you can use “fields of the plant they made bread from.”

heads of grain

The heads of grain are the topmost part of the wheat plant. It holds the mature grain or seeds of the plant.

Matthew 12:2

do what is unlawful to do on the Sabbath

Picking grain in others' fields and eating it was not considered stealing. The question was whether one could do this otherwise lawful activity on the Sabbath.

the Pharisees

"Look, your disciples." The Pharisees use this word to draw attention to what the disciples are doing.

Matthew 12:3

to them

"to the Pharisees"

Have you never read ... with him?

“Surely you have read about ... with him.”

Matthew 12:4

the house of God

"the tabernacle" or "the place for worshiping God"

bread of the presence

"bread that the priest placed before God" or "sacred bread"

those who were with him

"the men who were with David"

but lawful only for the priests

"but, according to the law, only the priests could eat it"

Matthew 12:5

Have you not read in the law that ... but are guiltless?

“Surely you have read in the law of Moses that ... but are guiltless.” or “You should know that the law teaches that ... but are guiltless.”

profane the Sabbath

"do on the Sabbath what the law forbids them to do on that day"

are guiltless

"God will not punish them" or "God does not consider them guilty"

Matthew 12:6

I say to you

This adds emphasis to what Jesus says next.

one greater than the temple

"someone who is more important than the temple." Jesus was referring to himself as the one greater.

Matthew 12:7

If you had known what this meant, 'I desire mercy and not sacrifice,' you would not have condemned the guiltless

“If you had understood what God meant when he said ‘I desire mercy and not sacrifice, you would not have condemned the guiltless” or “You would not have condemned people who are not guilty if you had understood the meaning of “I desire mercy and not sacrifice”

I desire mercy and not sacrifice

In the law of Moses, God did command the Israelites to offer sacrifices. This means God considers mercy more important than the sacrifices.

the guiltless

"those who are not guilty"

Matthew 12:8

the Son of Man is

"I, the Son of Man, am"

is Lord of the Sabbath

"rules over the Sabbath" or "makes the laws about what people can do on the Sabbath"

Matthew 12:9

Then Jesus left from there

"Jesus left the grainfields" or "Then Jesus left"

their synagogue

"the synagogue that they attended"

Matthew 12:10

Behold

The word "Behold" alerts us to a new person in the story. Your language may have a way of doing this.

a man who had a withered hand

"a man who had a paralyzed hand" or "a man with a crippled hand"

The Pharisees asked Jesus, saying, "Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath?" so that they might accuse him of sinning.

"The Pharisees wanted to accuse Jesus of sinning, so they asked him, 'Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath?'"

Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath

"According to the law of Moses, may a person heal another person on the Sabbath"

Matthew 12:11

What man would there be among you, who, if he had just one sheep ... would not take hold of it and raise it out?

“Every one of you, if you only had one sheep ... would grab the sheep and pull it out of the pit.”

Matthew 12:12

How much more valuable, then, is a man than a sheep!

"Obviously, a man is much more valuable than a sheep!" or "Just think about how much more important a man is than a sheep"

it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath

"those who do good on the Sabbath are obeying the law"

Matthew 12:13

Then Jesus said to the man, "Stretch out your hand."

“Then Jesus told the man to stretch out his hand.”“Then Jesus told the man to stretch out his hand.”

Stretch out your hand

"Hold out your hand" or "Extend your hand"

He stretched

"The man stretched"

it was restored to health

"it was healthy again" or "it became well again"

Matthew 12:14

plotted against him

"planned to harm Jesus"

were seeking how they might destroy him

"were discussing how they might kill Jesus"

Matthew 12:15

Jesus, knowing this, withdrew from there

“Jesus knew what the Pharisees were planning, so he left that place”

Matthew 12:16

not to make him known to others

"not to tell anyone else about him"

Matthew 12:17

that it might be fulfilled, what had been said through Isaiah the prophet, saying,

“This was to fulfill what had been said through Isaiah the prophet:” or “This was so that what God had said through the prophet Isaiah might happen:”

Matthew 12:18

Connecting Statement:

Matthew quotes the prophet Isaiah to show that Jesus’s ministry fulfilled scripture. Isaiah wrote what God said, so all the occurrences of “I” and “my” refer to God.

my beloved one, in whom my soul is well pleased

“he is my beloved one, and I am very pleased with him”

he will proclaim justice to the Gentiles

“he will announce to the nations that God will do for them what is right”

Matthew 12:19

neither will anyone hear his voice in the streets

“nor shout in public places” or “and people will not hear him speaking loudly in the streets”

Matthew 12:20

He will not break any bruised reed; he will not quench any smoking flax

"He will be kind to people who are like a bruised reed, and he will be gentle to those who are like a smoking flax"

bruised reed

"damaged plant"

he will not quench any smoking flax

"he will not put out any smoking wick" or "he will not stop any smoking lamp wick from burning." A smoking flax is a lamp wick after the flame has gone out and when it is only smoking.

until he leads justice to victory

"until he makes justice have victory" or "until he makes everything right"

Matthew 12:21

in his name the Gentiles will have hope

“the Gentiles will trust in his name” or “the Gentiles will confidently wait for him to fulfill his promises”

in his name

"in him"

Matthew 12:22

Then someone blind and mute, possessed by a demon, was brought to Jesus

“Then people brought to Jesus a man who was blind and mute because a demon was controlling him”

Matthew 12:23

All the crowds were amazed

"All the people who had seen Jesus heal the man were greatly surprised"

the Son of David

This is a title for the Christ or Messiah. See how you translated “Son of David” in Matthew 9:27

Matthew 12:24

This man does not cast out demons except by Beelzebul ... demons

“This man is able to force demons to leave only because he is a servant of Beelzebul ... demons”

This man

The Pharisees avoid calling Jesus by name to show they reject him.

the prince of the demons

"the chief of the demons"

Matthew 12:25

Every kingdom divided against itself is made desolate, and every city or house divided against itself will not stand

These two statements emphasize that it would not make sense for Beelzebul to use his power to fight other demons.

Every kingdom divided against itself is made desolate

"A kingdom will not last if its people fight among themselves"

Matthew 12:26

If Satan drives out Satan

“If Satan forces his own demons to leave”

How then will his kingdom stand?

"His kingdom would not be able to stand!" or "His kingdom would not last!"

Matthew 12:27

And if I drive out demons by Beelzebul

"And if you say that I drive out demons by Beelzebul"

Beelzebul

This name refers to the same person as "Satan" (verse 26).

by whom do your sons drive them out?

"then your followers also drive out demons by Beelzebul." or "then you would have to say that your followers drive out demons by the power of Beelzebul."

For this reason they will be your judges

"Because your followers cast out demons by the power of God, they prove that you are wrong about me."

Matthew 12:28

But if I

"But because I"

then the kingdom of God has come upon you

"this means God is establishing his rule among you"

come upon you

Here "you" is plural and refers to the people of Israel.

Matthew 12:29

How can anyone enter ... without tying up the strong man first?

“No one can enter ... without tying up the strong man first.” or “If a person wants to enter ... he must first tie up the strong man.”

Then he will steal

"The he can steal" or "Then he will be able to steal"

Matthew 12:30

who is not with me

"who does not support me" or "who does not work with me"

is against me

"opposes me" or "works against me"

the one who does not gather with me scatters

“whoever does not gather my sheep with me scatters them” or “whoever does not work with me works against what I am doing”

Matthew 12:31

every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men

"God will forgive every sin that people commit and every evil thing they say" or "God will forgive every person who sins or says evil things"

blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven

"God will not forgive the person who speaks evil things about the Holy Spirit"

Matthew 12:32

Whoever speaks any word against the Son of Man

"If a person says anything bad about the Son of Man"

the Son of Man

Jesus is speaking about himself.

that will be forgiven him

"God will forgive a person for that"

that will not be forgiven him

"God will not forgive that person"

neither in this world, nor in that which is to come

"in this life or in the next life" or "now or ever"

Matthew 12:33

Make a tree good and its fruit good, or make the tree bad and its fruit bad

Possible meanings are 1) "If you make a tree good, its fruit will be good, and if you make the tree bad, its fruit will be bad" or 2) "If a tree is good, it will have good fruit, and if a tree is bad, it will have bad fruit." This was a proverb. People were to apply its truth to how they can know whether a person is good or bad.

good ... bad

"healthy ... diseased"

a tree is recognized by its fruit

"people recognize a tree by its fruit" or "people know whether a tree is good or bad by looking at its fruit"

Matthew 12:34

You offspring of vipers

Here "offspring" means "having the characteristic of." Vipers are poisonous snakes that are dangerous and represent evil. See how you translated a similar phrase in Matthew 3:7.

how can you say good things?

“you cannot say good things.” or “you can only say evil things.”

out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks

“what a person says with his mouth reveals what is in his mind”

Matthew 12:35

The good man from the good treasure of his heart produces what is good, and the evil man from the evil treasure of his heart produces what is evil

“A good man will speak good things because good things are in his heart, and an evil man will speak evil things because evil things are in this heart”

Matthew 12:36

people will give an account for very idle word they will have said

"people will have to tell God why they said every useless thing they have said"

Matthew 12:37

by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned

"your words will justify you, and your words will condemn you" or "because of what you say, God will either justify you or condemn you"

Matthew 12:38

we want to see a sign from you

"we want you to show us a sign" or "we want to see you do a miraculous sign"

Matthew 12:39

An evil and adulterous generation seeks for a sign ... given to it

“You are an evil and adulterous generation who demands signs from me ... given to you”

adulterous generation

“unfaithful generation” or “godless generation”

no sign will be given to it except the sign of Jonah

"The only sign that will be given to it is the sign of Jonah"

the sign of Jonah

"what happened to Jonah" or "the miracle that God did for Jonah"

Matthew 12:40

three days and three nights

"three days and nights"

the Son of Man

"I, the Son of Man"

in the heart of the earth

"in the earth" or "in a grave"

Matthew 12:41

The men of Nineveh

"The citizens of Nineveh"

at the judgment

"on judgment day" or "when God judges people"

this generation of people

This refers to the Jews who were alive when Jesus was preaching.

and will condemn it

"and will accuse this generation of people"

and see

"and look." This emphasizes what Jesus says next.

someone greater than Jonah is here

"someone more important than Jonah is here"

Matthew 12:42

Queen of the South

This refers to the Queen of Sheba. Sheba was a land south of Israel.

will rise up at the judgment

"will stand up at the judgment"

this generation

This refers to the Jews living during the time Jesus was preaching.

She came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon

“For she came from very far away to listen to Solomon’s wise teaching.” This statement explains why the Queen of the South will condemn the people of Jesus’s generation.

someone greater

Jesus is speaking about himself.

Matthew 12:43

waterless places

"dry places" or "places where no people live"

does not find it

Here "it" refers to rest.

Matthew 12:44

to my house from which I came

The house is the person in whom the unclean spirit was living earlier

it finds the house empty

“it finds the house unoccupied” or “it sees that no one is living in the house”

it had been swept clean and put in order.

"someone had swept the house clean and has put everything in the house where it belongs"

Matthew 12:45

It will be just like that with this evil generation

This means that if the people of Jesus's generation do not believe him and become his disciples, they will be in a worse situation than they were before he came.

Matthew 12:46

behold

The word "behold" alerts us to a new people in the story.

his mother

This is Mary, Jesus's human mother.

his brothers

These are probably other children born to Mary, but it is is possible that the word "brothers" here refers to Jesus's cousins.

seeking to speak

"wanting to speak to Jesus"

Matthew 12:47

Someone said to him, "Look, your mother and your brothers stand outside, seeking to speak to you."

“Someone told Jesus that his mother and brothers were outside and wanted to speak to him.”

Matthew 12:48

who told him

"who told him that his mother and brothers wanted to speak to him"

Who is my mother and who are my brothers?

“I will tell you who are really my mother and brothers.”

Matthew 12:49

See

"Look" or "Listen" or "Pay attention to what I am about to tell you"

Matthew 12:50

whoever does the will of God

"anyone who does what God wants"

my Father

This refers to God the Father. It is best to translate “Father” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human father.

Chapter 13

¹ On that day Jesus went out of the house and sat beside the sea. ² A very large crowd gathered around him, so he got into a boat and sat in it while the whole crowd stood on the beach.

³ Then Jesus said many things to them in parables. He said, "Behold, a farmer went out to sow seed. ⁴ As he sowed, some seeds fell beside the road, and the birds came and devoured them. ⁵ Other seeds fell on rocky ground, where they did not have much soil. Immediately they sprang up because the soil had no depth. ⁶ But when the sun had risen, they were scorched because they had no root, and they withered away.

⁷ Other seeds fell among the thorn plants. The thorn plants grew up and choked them. ⁸ Other seeds fell on good soil and produced a crop, some one hundred times as much, some sixty, and some thirty. ⁹ He who has ears, let him hear."

¹⁰ The disciples came and said to Jesus, "Why do you talk to the crowd in parables?"

¹¹ Jesus answered and said to them, "You have been given the privilege of understanding mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given. ¹² For whoever has will be given more, and he will have an abundance. But whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him.

¹³ This is why I talk to them in parables:

Though they are seeing,

they do not see;

and though they are hearing,

they do not hear, or understand.

¹⁴ To them the prophecy of Isaiah is fulfilled, that which says,

'Listening, you will hear, but you will never understand;

seeing, you will see, but you will never know.

¹⁵ For the heart of this people has become dull,

and with their ears they hardly hear,

and they have shut their eyes.

Otherwise they might see with their eyes,

and hear with their ears,

and understand with their heart and turn again,

and I would heal them.'

¹⁶ But blessed are your eyes, for they see; and your ears, for they hear. ¹⁷ Truly I say to you that many prophets and righteous men desired to see the things that you see and did not see them. They desired to hear the things that you hear and did not hear them.

¹⁸ Listen then to the parable of the farmer who sowed his seed. ¹⁹ When anyone hears the word of the kingdom but does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what has been sown in his heart. This is the seed that was sown beside the road.

²⁰ What was sown on rocky ground is the person who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy, ²¹ yet he has no root in himself and he endures for a while. When tribulation or persecution arises because of the word, he quickly falls away.

²² What was sown among the thorn plants, this is the person who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and he becomes unfruitful. ²³ The seed that was sown on the good soil, this is the person who hears the word and understands it. He bears fruit and produces a crop, yielding in one case a hundred, in another sixty, and in another thirty times as much as was planted."

²⁴ Jesus presented another parable to them. He said, "The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field. ²⁵ But while people slept, his enemy came and also sowed weeds among the wheat and then went away. ²⁶ When the blades sprouted and then produced their crop, then the weeds appeared also.

²⁷ The servants of the landowner came and said to him, 'Sir, did you not sow good seed in your field? How does it now have weeds?'

²⁸ "He said to them, 'An enemy has done this.'

"The servants said to him, 'So do you want us to go and pull them out?'

²⁹ "The landowner said, 'No. Because while you are pulling out the weeds, you might uproot the wheat with them. ³⁰ Let both grow together until the harvest. At the time of the harvest I will say to the reapers, "First pull out the weeds and tie them in bundles to burn them, but gather the wheat into my barn."'"

³¹ Then Jesus presented another parable to them. He said, "The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed which a man took and sowed in his field. ³² This seed is indeed the smallest of all seeds. But when it has grown, it is greater than the garden plants. It becomes a tree, so that the birds of the sky come and nest in its branches."

³³ Jesus then told them another parable. "The kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed with three measures of flour until all the dough had risen."

³⁴ All these things Jesus said to the crowds in parables; and he said nothing to them without a parable. ³⁵ This was in order that what had been said through the prophet might be fulfilled, when he said,

"I will open my mouth in parables.

I will say things that were hidden from the foundation of the world."

³⁶ Then Jesus left the crowds and went into the house. His disciples came to him and said, "Explain to us the parable of the weeds of the field."

³⁷ Jesus answered and said, "He who sows the good seed is the Son of Man. ³⁸ The field is the world; and the good seed, these are the sons of the kingdom. The weeds are the sons of the evil one, ³⁹ and the enemy who sowed them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are angels.

⁴⁰ Therefore, as the weeds are gathered up and consumed by fire, so will it be at the end of the age. ⁴¹ The Son of Man will send out his angels, and they will gather out of his kingdom all stumbling blocks and those who commit lawlessness. ⁴² They will throw them into the furnace of fire, where there will be weeping and grinding of teeth. ⁴³ Then will the righteous people shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears, let him hear.

⁴⁴ "The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hidden in a field. A man found it and hid it. In his joy he goes, sells everything he possesses, and buys that field. ⁴⁵ Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a man who is a merchant looking for valuable pearls. ⁴⁶ When he found one very valuable pearl, he went and sold everything that he possessed and bought it.

⁴⁷ "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was cast into the sea, and that gathered all kinds of fish. ⁴⁸ When it was filled, the fishermen drew it up on the beach. Then they sat down and gathered the good ones into containers, but the bad ones they threw away.

⁴⁹ It will be this way at the end of the age. The angels will come and separate the wicked from among the righteous. ⁵⁰ They will throw them into the furnace of fire, where there will be weeping and grinding of teeth.

⁵¹ "Have you understood all these things?"

The disciples said to him, "Yes."

⁵² Then Jesus said to them, "Therefore every scribe who has become a disciple to the kingdom of heaven is like a man who is the owner of a house, who draws out old and new things from his treasure." ⁵³ Then it came about that when Jesus had finished these parables, he departed from that place.

⁵⁴ Then Jesus entered his own region and taught the people in their synagogue. The result was that they were astonished and said, "Where does this man get his wisdom and these miraculous powers from? ⁵⁵ Is not this man the carpenter's son? Is not his mother called Mary? Are not his brothers James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas? ⁵⁶ Are not all his sisters with us? Where did he get all these things?"

⁵⁷ They were offended by him.

But Jesus said to them, "A prophet is not without honor except in his own country and in his own family."

⁵⁸ He did not do many miracles there because of their unbelief.

Matthew 13

13:1-9

Why did Jesus get into the boat?

[13:2]

Jesus got into a boat near the beach. He did this so that people could hear him.

What was a parable?

[13:3]

See: Parable

Why did Matthew write about sowing seeds?

[13:4]

In this passage, Matthew wrote about sowing seeds. This was a parable. He wrote about the different types of people. Jesus explained the meaning of this parable later in this chapter.

See: Matthew 13:3-9; Luke 8:5-8

See: Sow (Plant); Parable

What was a thorny plant?

[13:7]

A thorny plant was a type of weed. Weeds are bad plants. They harm the good plants. These plants grew in places where people did not want them to grow. Farmers wanted to stop these plants from growing because they harmed the good plants that they wanted to grow.

Why did Jesus say, “he who has ears to hear, let him hear”?

[13:9]

When Jesus said “he who has ears to hear, let him hear,” he wanted someone to really listen to what he said because they needed to hear it.

13:10-23

Who was given the mystery of the kingdom of heaven?

[13:11]

Jesus spoke about the mystery of the kingdom of God. Jesus was speaking to the disciples. However, scholars think all Christians can know about the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven.

See: Mystery; Kingdom of God

What was meant by the words, “seeing, they do not see”?

[13:13]

The words, “seeing, they do not see” meant that while a person could see, they did not understand the meaning of what was seen. Jesus also said that there were people who, “hearing, but they do not hear.” People heard Jesus’ words, but they did not understand what they were hearing.

How was Isaiah’s prophecy fulfilled?

[13:14]

Jesus said that one of Isaiah’s prophecies was fulfilled (see: Isaiah 6:9-10). Isaiah spoke about a time when some people would not understand the things God taught, but other people would understand the things God taught and they would repent.

See: Prophecy (Prophesy) ; Fulfill (Fulfillment); Repent (Repentance)

What did Jesus mean when he spoke about someone’s heart becoming dull?

[13:15]

When Jesus spoke about a person with a “dull”(παχύνω/g3975) heart, he meant that person was very slow to understand things about God.

See: Heart (Metaphor)

Why did many prophets and righteous men want to see the things these people now saw?

[13:17]

Jesus said that many prophets and righteous men wanted to see the things these people now saw. That is, they wanted to see Jesus the messiah. However, they did not live at the same time that Jesus lived. Jesus wanted them to know that they were blessed to be able to see the messiah.

See: Prophet; Righteous (Righteousness); Messiah (Christ); Bless (Blessing)

Why did Jesus tell the people to listen to the parable of the farmer?

[13:18]

Jesus told the people to listen to the parable of the farmer because he was about to explain the meaning of this parable.

See: Parable

What was the word?

[13:19]

Jesus explained the parable about sowing seeds. This was a metaphor. The seeds cast by the sower was the word of God. That is, the things about which Jesus taught. Some scholars think Jesus spoke about the gospel. Fewer scholars think Jesus spoke about the kingdom of God.

See: Parable; Sow (Plant); Metaphor; Word of God; Gospel; Kingdom of God

How were people like seeds sown beside the road?

[13:19]

Jesus used a metaphor to talk about what happened to some people when they heard the gospel. The road was a place where seeds could not grow. Some scholars think that Jesus spoke about peoples’ hearts that were hard, like a road. These people say they were Christians, but they did not do things that honored God. Therefore, they were not at peace with God. Other scholars think that Jesus spoke about people who were not Christians. These people did not believe in the things Jesus taught. They did not believe in Jesus.

See: Metaphor; Gospel; Satan (The Devil); Heart (Metaphor)

How were people like seeds sown on rocky ground?

[13:20]

Jesus used a metaphor to talk about what happened to some people when they heard the gospel. On the rocky ground, the seed could begin to grow. But there was not enough dirt for it to grow very much, so it died. Some scholars think that Jesus spoke about Christians. These people believed in Jesus, but they rejected Jesus when they were persecuted. Therefore, they were not at peace with God. Other scholars think that Jesus spoke about people who were not Christians. These people said they were Christians, but rejected Jesus when they were persecuted. Therefore, they were not Christians.

See: Metaphor; Persecute (Persecution) ; Gospel

How were people like seeds sown with the thorns?

[13:22]

Jesus used a metaphor to talk about what happened to some people when they heard the gospel. Thorn plants were bad plants. The thorn plants killed the good plants. Some scholars think Jesus spoke about Christians who believed in Jesus, but they made other things more important than Jesus in their life. They did not honor God as much as they should have honored him. Other scholars think Jesus spoke about people who were not Christians. They said they were Christians, but they cared more for the things they owned than they cared for Jesus. They were not Christians.

Advice to translators: Here, “thorns” is a type of plant that grows among other plants and kills them. It is also not good to be used for anything.

See: Fruit (Metaphor); Metaphor; Gospel

How were people like seeds sown on good soil?

[13:23]

Jesus used a metaphor to talk about what happened to some people when they heard the gospel. People whose hearts were like “good soil” obeyed God and did things that honored God. They produced fruit when they did this. That is, they did not live in the way they used to live. They helped others to believe in Jesus and did the things that honored Jesus.

See: Fruit (Metaphor); Metaphor

How did someone bear fruit?

[13:23]

See: Fruit (Metaphor)

13:24-30

How was the kingdom of heaven like a man who sowed good seeds in his field?

[13:24]

Jesus told the people another parable. He compared the kingdom of heaven to a man who sowed good seeds in his field. After this man did this, his enemies sowed weeds in his field. If weeds and wheat grew in the same field, the farmer would have to wait until both the weeds and the wheat were grown before he could remove the weeds. Jesus wanted people to know that there will be people in the world who believe in Jesus and do things that honor God. They are like the wheat in the parable. However, God has an enemy, Satan. Satan fights against God. Jesus wanted people to know that there will also be evil people in the world who reject God. They must remain in the world until a day when God judges everyone and separates the Christians from non-Christians. At this time, God will punish the non-Christians. When Jesus spoke about the harvest, he was speaking about the day of judgment.

See: Parable; Kingdom of God; Satan (The Devil); Harvest; Day of Judgment;

13:31-36

How was the kingdom of heaven like a mustard seed?

[13:31]

Jesus said the kingdom of heaven was like a mustard seed. This was a metaphor. The mustard seed was very small seed. It was about 1 millimeter in size. A mustard tree was very large. Jesus wanted to say that the kingdom of God began very small, but will become very great.

See: Kingdom of God; Metaphor

Why did Jesus tell the parable of yeast?

[13:33]

Jesus told the parable of yeast to say that God will reign over the whole world. When a woman mixed a small amount of yeast with a big amount of flour, the flour raised. In the same way, some scholars think God’s rule over a few people would spread throughout the whole world. Other scholars think Jesus was speaking about his rule over Jerusalem.

See: Yeast (Leaven); Parable

Where did a prophet say these words?

[13:35]

See: Psalm 78:2

13:37-43

Who is the Son of Man?

[13:37]

Jesus is the Son of Man.

See: Son of Man

Who is the devil?

[13:39]

The devil is Satan.

See: Satan (The Devil)

What is the end of the age?

[13:40]

The end of the age is the day of the lord.

See: Day of the Lord; Day of Judgment

Why did Jesus talk about fire?

[13:42]

In the Bible, when someone is punished, they are often talked about as being burned with fire.

See: Fire; Punish (Punishment);Hell

What is an angel?

[13:41]

See: Angel

What were “all the things that cause sin and those who commit iniquity”?

[13:41]

When Jesus talked about “all the things that cause sin and those who commit lawlessness”, he was talking about all kinds of temptations and people that cause other people to sin. These people who cause others to sin were people who rejected God. They caused other people to do things that do not honor God. They also lived as if there was no God.

Why did Jesus talk about weeping and the grinding of teeth?

[13:42]

Jesus said that people who were being punished would cry loudly and grind their teeth. Because they were punished, they would have much pain. They would cry because of the pain.

See: Punish (Punishment)

How do righteous people shine like the sun?

[13:43]

Jesus said that the righteous people will shine like the sin. This is a metaphor. Some scholars think Christians will share in the glory and honor of Jesus.

See: Righteous (Righteousness); Metaphor; Glory (Glorify)

Why did Jesus say, “he who has ears to hear, let him hear”?

[13:43]

When Jesus said “he who has ears to hear, let him hear,” he wanted someone to really listen to what he said because they needed to hear it.

13:44-53

How was the kingdom of heaven like a treasure hidden in a field?

[13:44]

Jesus said the kingdom of heaven was like a treasure hidden in a field. This was a parable. He wanted people to know that they should do anything they can to be part of Jesus’ kingdom. When someone learns about Jesus, they should be willing to give up everything they have to serve Jesus.

See: Kingdom of God; Parable

How was the kingdom of heaven like a man who looked for valuable pearls?

[13:45]

Jesus said that the kingdom of heaven was like a man who looked for valuable pearls. This was a parable. He wanted people to know that they should do anything they can to be of Jesus’ kingdom. When someone learns about Jesus, they should be willing to give up everything they have to serve Jesus.

See: Kingdom of God; Parable

How was the kingdom of heaven like a net cast into the sea?

[13:47]

Jesus said that the kingdom of heaven was like a fishing net cast into the sea. This was a parable. Jesus wanted people to know that there will also be evil people in the world who reject God. However, God will judge everyone and will separate the Christians from non-Christians. At this time, God will punish the non-Christians. When Jesus spoke about separating the fish and the end of the age, he was speaking about the day of judgment.

Jesus said the angels would do this. He wanted people to know that the angels will serve God at this time. They will help God when he judges people.

See: Parable; Kingdom of God; Day of Judgment; Angel; Punish (Punishment); Judge (Judgment)

Why did Jesus talk about weeping and the grinding of teeth?

[13:50]

Jesus said that people who were being punished would cry and grind their teeth. Because they were punished, they would have much pain. They would cry because of the pain.

See: Punish (Punishment)

Why did Jesus speak about certain scribes?

[13:52]

Jesus spoke about certain scribes. Some scribes heard about Jesus and his kingdom and believed in Jesus. They then understood the things the Old Testament prophets spoke about regarding the kingdom and the Messiah. They also understood the things Jesus taught about the kingdom and the messiah.

See: Scribe; Kingdom of God; Messiah (Christ)

13:54-58

Where was Jesus’ own region?

[13:54]

Jesus left Capernaum and returned to his own region. That is, he returned to the area near Nazareth.

See Map: Capernaum; Nazareth

What was a synagogue?

[13:54]

See: Synagogue

Why did the people wonder who taught Jesus?

[13:54]

In ancient Israel, many teachers learned from other teachers. They then taught the same things their teachers taught. This is why they wanted to know who taught Jesus. He did not teach the same things any other teacher taught.

Why did the people ask who gave Jesus the power to do miracles?

[13:54]

The people asked who gave Jesus the power to do miracles. They did not think God gave Jesus the power to do these miracles. They thought Satan gave him the power (see: Mark 3:22).

See: Miracle; Satan (The Devil)

Did Jesus have brothers and sisters?

[13:55, 13:56]

These people were talking about Jesus’ brothers and sisters. Some scholars think that Mary and Joseph had other children after Jesus was born. Fewer scholars think that Mary and Joseph did not have any more children after Jesus. They think these were cousins of Jesus.

What did Matthew mean when he said the people were offended by Jesus?

[13:57]

When Matthew said that the people were offended, he meant that the people rejected Jesus. They did not believe he was sent from God and their messiah.

See: Messiah (Christ)

How was a prophet honored?

[13:57]

Jesus said that people honored a prophet, except in his hometown. To honor a prophet was to show him great respect, and to listen closely to the things he spoke, because a prophet spoke the truth from God. Jesus was a prophet. Perhaps he was also thinking about how Israel would reject him as their messiah.

See: Prophet; Messiah (Christ)

Why did Jesus not do many miracles in Nazareth?

[13:58]

Jesus did miracles so that people would know that God sent him. However, the people in Nazareth did not think God sent Jesus to be the messiah. They would not believe he was the messiah even if Jesus did many miracles. Therefore, Jesus did not do many miracles in Nazareth.

See: Miracle; Messiah (Christ)

See Map: Nazareth

Matthew 13:1

sat beside the sea

In that culture, teachers sat down to teach.

Matthew 13:2

a boat

This was probably an open, wooden fishing boat with a sail.

Matthew 13:3

Jesus said many things to them in parables

"Jesus told them many things in parables"

Behold

"Look" or "Listen." or "Pay attention to what I am about to tell you"

a farmer went out to sow seed

"a farmer went out to scatter seeds in a field"

Matthew 13:4

As he sowed

"As the farmer scattered the seed"

beside the road

This refers to a "path" next to the field. The ground there would have been hard from people walking on it.

Matthew 13:5

Immediately they sprang up

"The seeds quickly sprouted and grew"

Matthew 13:6

they were scorched

"the sun scorched the plants, and they became too hot"

they withered away

"the plants became dry and died"

Matthew 13:7

fell among the thorn plants

"fell where plants with thorns grew"

choked them

"choked the new sprouts." Use your word for the way weeds prevent other plants from growing well.

Matthew 13:8

produced a crop

"grew more seeds" or "gave fruit"

some one hundred times as much, some sixty, and some thirty

"some seeds produced 100 times as much crop, some seeds produced 60 times as much crop, and some seeds produced 30 times as much crop"

Matthew 13:9

He who has ears, let him hear

"Let the one who is willing to listen, listen" or "The one who is willing to understand, let him understand and obey"

Matthew 13:11

You have been given the privilege of understanding mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given

"God has given you the privilege of understanding mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but God has not given it to these people" or "God has made you able to understand mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but he has not enabled these people to understand"

mysteries of the kingdom of heaven

"the secrets about our God in heaven and his rule"

Matthew 13:12

has will be given more

"has understanding, God will give him more understanding"

whoever does not have

"whoever does not have understanding" or "whoever does not receive what I teach"

even what he has will be taken away from him

"God will take away even what he has"

Matthew 13:13

to them ... they

All occurrences of "them" and "they" refer to the people in the crowd.

Though they are seeing, they do not see; and though they are hearing, they do not hear, or understand.

Jesus teaches the disciples that the crowd refuses to understand God's truth.

Though they are seeing, they do not see

Though they are able to see, they do not really see”

though they are hearing they do not hear

“Though they are able to hear, they do not listen well”

Matthew 13:14

Listening, you will hear, but you will never understand

"You will hear what God says through the prophets, but you will not understand its true meaning"

seeing, you will see, but you will never know

"you will see what God does through the prophets, but you will not understand it"

Matthew 13:15

For the heart of this people ... I would heal them

This describes the people's spiritual condition. It means the people are stubborn and refuse to receive and understand God's truth. If they would, then they would repent and God would forgive them and welcome them back as his people.

the heart of this people has become dull

"these people's minds are slow to learn" or "these people can no longer learn"

with their ears they hardly hear

"they refuse to use their ears to listen"

they have shut their eyes

"they refuse to use their eyes to see"

understand with their heart

"understand with their minds"

turn again

"turn back to me" or "repent"

I would heal them

"have me receive them again"

Matthew 13:16

But blessed are your eyes, for they see; and your ears, for they hear

Jesus is emphasizing that they have pleased God because they have believed what Jesus has said and done.

But blessed are your eyes, for they see

"You are blessed because your eyes are able to see"

your ears, for they hear

"and blessed are your ears, for they hear" "you are blessed because your ears are able to hear"

Matthew 13:17

Truly I say to you

"I tell you the truth." This adds emphasis to what Jesus says next.

you

All occurrences of this word are plural and refer to the disciples.

the things that you see

"the things you have seen me do"

the things that you hear

"the things you have heard me say"

Matthew 13:19

the word of the kingdom

"the message about God's rule as king"

the evil one comes and snatches away what has been sown in his heart

"The evil one causes him to forget the message that he has heard just as a bird snatches away seed from the ground"

the evil one

This refers to Satan.

snatches away

Try to use a word that means to grab something away from someone who is the rightful owner.

what has been sown in his heart

"the message that God sowed in his heart" or "the message that he heard"

in his heart

Here "heart" refers to the mind of the hearer.

This is the seed that was sown beside the road

"This is the meaning of the seed that was sown beside the road" or "The road where seed was sown represents this person"

Matthew 13:20

What was sown on rocky ground

"The seed that fell on rocky ground"

What was sown on rocky ground is

"The rocky ground where seed was sown represents" or "The rocky ground where seed fell represents"

the person who hears the word

In the parable, the seed represents the word.

the word

"the message" or "God's teaching"

receives it with joy

"joyfully believes it"

Matthew 13:21

yet he has no root in himself and he endures for a while

but like a plant that does not grow deep roots, he only endures for a little while"

he quickly falls away

"immediately he falls away" or "he quickly stops believing the message"

Matthew 13:22

What was sown

"The seed that was sown" or "The seed that fell"

What was sown among the thorn plants

"The ground with the thorn plants where seed was sown"

the word

"the message" or "God's teaching"

the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word

"as weeds prevent good plants from growing, the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches keep this person from listening to God's word"

cares of the world

"the things in this world that people worry about"

the deceitfulness of riches

"the love of money"

he becomes unfruitful

"he becomes unproductive" or "he does not do what God wants"

Matthew 13:23

The seed that was sown on the good soil

"The good soil where seeds were sown"

He bears fruit and produces a crop

"Like a healthy plant that bears a crop of fruit, he is productive"

a crop, yielding in one case a hundred, in another sixty, and in another thirty times as much as was planted

"a crop, producing100 times as much as the farmer planted,60 times as much as the farmer planted, or 30 times as much as the farmer planted"

Matthew 13:24

Jesus presented another parable

"Jesus told them another parable"

The kingdom of heaven is like a man

The translation should not equate the kingdom of heaven to a man, but rather the kingdom of heaven is like the situation described in the parable.

The kingdom of heaven is like

"When our God in heaven shows himself to be king, it will be like"

Matthew 13:25

weeds

"bad seed" or "weed seeds"

Matthew 13:26

When the blades sprouted

"When the wheat seeds sprouted" or "When the plants came up"

Matthew 13:27

the landowner

This is the same person who sowed good seed in his field.

did you not sow good seed in your field?

"you sowed good seed in your field!"

did you not sow

"did we not sow"

Matthew 13:28

So do you want us

The word "us" refers to the servants.

Matthew 13:30

I will say to the reapers, "First pull out the weeds and tie them in bundles to burn them, but gather the wheat into my barn."

"I will tell the reapers to first gather up the weeds and tie them in bundles to burn them, and then gather the wheat into my barn."

barn

a farm building that can be used for storing grain

Matthew 13:31

The kingdom of heaven is like

"When our God in heaven shows himself to be king, it will be like"

mustard seed

a very small seed that grows into a large plant

Matthew 13:32

This seed is indeed the smallest of all seeds

Mustard seeds were the smallest seeds known to the original hearers.

Matthew 13:33

The kingdom of heaven is like yeast

The spread of the kingdom is like the spreading of the yeast.

The kingdom of heaven is like

"When our God in heaven shows himself to be king, it will be like"

three measures of flour

If your culture does not have something to measure large amounts, you could simple say “a large amount of flour.”

until all the dough had risen

Women would mix flour, water, and yeast together to make dough, and the yeast would make the dough rise.

Matthew 13:34

All these things

his refers to what Jesus taught beginning in Matthew 13:1

he said nothing to them without a parable

"everything he taught them he said in parables"

Matthew 13:35

what had been said through the prophet might be fulfilled, when he said

"what God told one of the prophets to write long ago might come true"

when he said

"when the prophet said"

I will open my mouth

"I will speak"

things that were hidden

"things that God has kept hidden"

from the foundation of the world

"since the beginning of the world" or "since God created the world"

Matthew 13:37

He who sows the good seed

"The one who sows the good seed" or "The sower of the good seed"

the Son of Man

Jesus is referring to himself.

Matthew 13:38

the sons of the kingdom

“the people who belong to the kingdom” or “the people who submit to God’s rule”

of the kingdom

"of God"

the sons of the evil one

"the people who belong to the evil one"

Matthew 13:40

Therefore, as the weeds are gathered up and consumed by fire

"Therefore, as people gather up weeds and burn them in the fire"

Matthew 13:41

The Son of Man will send out his angels

"I, the Son of Man, will send out my angels"

all stumbling blocks

everything that causes people to sin

those who commit lawlessness

"those who are lawless" or "evil people"

Matthew 13:42

furnace of fire

"fiery furnace"

weeping and grinding of teeth

"weeping and showing that they are suffering very much"

Matthew 13:43

shine like the sun

"be as easy to see as the sun."

Father

This refers to God the Father. It is best to translate “Father” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human father

He who has ears, let him hear

"Let the one who is willing to listen, listen" or "The one who is willing to understand, let him understand and obey"

Matthew 13:44

The kingdom of heaven is like

"When our God in heaven shows himself to be king, it will be like"

like a treasure hidden in a field

"a treasure that someone had hidden in a field"

treasure

a very valuable and precious thing or collection of things

hid it

"covered it up"

and buys that field

He buys the field to take possession of the hidden treasure.

Matthew 13:45

like a man who is a merchant looking for valuable pearls

The implied information is that the man was looking for valuable pearls that he could buy.

a merchant

a trader or wholesale dealer who often obtains merchandise from distant places

valuable pearls

"fine pearls" or "beautiful pearls"

Matthew 13:47

the kingdom of heaven is like a net

Jesus was teaching that the kingdom draws all kinds of people like a net catches all kinds of fish.

the kingdom of heaven is like

"When our God in heaven shows himself to be king, it will be like"

like a net that was cast into the sea

"like a net that some fishermen cast into the sea"

Matthew 13:48

drew it up on the beach

"pulled the net up onto the beach" or "pulled the net ashore"

the good ones

"the good fish."

the bad ones

"the bad fish."

threw away

"did not keep"

Matthew 13:49

will come

"will come out" or "will go out" or "will come from heaven"

the wicked from among the righteous

"the wicked people from the righteous people"

Matthew 13:50

They will throw them

"The angels will throw the wicked people"

furnace of fire

"fiery furnace"

weeping and grinding of teeth

"weeping and expressing their extreme suffering"

Matthew 13:51

Have you understood all these things?" The disciples said to him, "Yes."

"Jesus asked them if they had understood all this, and they said that they did understand."

Matthew 13:52

has become a disciple to the kingdom of heaven

"has learned the truth about our God in heaven, who is king" or "has submitted himself to God's rule"

is like a man who is the owner of a house, who draws out old and new things from his treasure

Jesus compares scribes, who know very well the scriptures that Moses and the prophets wrote, and who also now accept Jesus’s teachings, to a house owner who uses both old and new treasures.

treasure

A treasure is a very valuable and precious thing or a collection of things. Here it may refer to the place where these things are stored, the "treasury" or "storeroom."

Matthew 13:53

Then it came about that when

"Then when" or "After"

Matthew 13:54

his own region

"his hometown." This refers to the town of Nazareth, where Jesus grew up.

Where does this man get his wisdom and these miraculous powers from?

"How can an ordinary man like this be so wise and do such great miracles?" or "It is strange that he is able to speak with such wisdom and do these miracles!"

Matthew 13:55

Is not this man the carpenter's son? Is not his mother called Mary? Are not his brothers James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas?

"He is just the son of a carpenter. We know his mother Mary, and his brothers James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas."

the carpenter's son

“the builder’s son.” A carpenter is someone who makes things with wood or stone.

Matthew 13:56

Are not all his sisters with us?

"And all his sisters are with us, too."

Where did he get all these things?

“He must have gotten these things from somewhere!” or “We do not know where he got his wisdom and power!”

all these things

This refers to Jesus's wisdom and ability to do miracles.

Matthew 13:57

They were offended by him

"The people of Jesus's hometown took offense at him" or "The people rejected Jesus"

A prophet is not without honor

"A prophet receives honor everywhere" or "People everywhere honor a prophet" )

his own country

"his own region" or "his own hometown"

in his own family

"in his own home"

Matthew 13:58

He did not do many miracles there

"Jesus did not do many miracles in his own hometown"

Chapter 14

¹ About that time, Herod the tetrarch heard the news about Jesus. ² He said to his servants, "This is John the Baptist; he has risen from the dead. Therefore these powers are at work in him."

³ For Herod had arrested John, bound him, and put him in prison because of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife. ⁴ For John had said to him, "It is not lawful for you to have her as your wife." ⁵ Herod would have killed him, but he feared the people, because they regarded him as a prophet.

⁶ But when Herod's birthday came, the daughter of Herodias danced in the midst and pleased Herod. ⁷ In response, he promised with an oath to give her whatever she should ask.

⁸ After being instructed by her mother, she said, "Give me here, on a platter, the head of John the Baptist." ⁹ The king was grieved by her request, but because of his oath and because of all those at dinner with him, he ordered that it should be done.

¹⁰ He sent and beheaded John in the prison. ¹¹ Then his head was brought on a platter and given to the girl, and she took it to her mother. ¹² Then his disciples came, took up the corpse, and buried it. After this, they went and told Jesus.

¹³ Now when Jesus heard this, he withdrew from there in a boat to a deserted place. When the crowds heard of it, they followed him on foot from the cities. ¹⁴ Then Jesus came before them and saw the large crowd. He had compassion on them and healed their sick.

¹⁵ When the evening had come, the disciples came to him and said, "This is a deserted place, and the hour has already passed. Dismiss the crowds, so that they can go into the villages and buy food for themselves."

¹⁶ But Jesus said to them, "They have no need to go away. You give them something to eat."

¹⁷ They said to him, "We have here only five loaves of bread and two fish."

¹⁸ Jesus said, "Bring them to me."

¹⁹ Then Jesus ordered the crowd to sit down on the grass. He took the five loaves and the two fish. Looking up to heaven, he blessed and broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowd. ²⁰ They all ate and were filled. Then they took up what remained of the broken pieces of food—twelve baskets full. ²¹ Those who ate were about five thousand men, besides women and children.

²² Immediately he made the disciples get into the boat and go before him to the other side, while he sent away the crowds. ²³ After he had sent away the crowds, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone. ²⁴ But the boat was now a long way from land, being tossed about by the waves, for the wind was blowing against them.

²⁵ In the fourth watch of the night Jesus approached them, walking on the sea. ²⁶ When the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled and said, "It is a ghost," and they cried out in fear.

²⁷ But Jesus spoke to them right away and said, "Be brave! It is I! Do not be afraid."

²⁸ Peter answered him and said, "Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water."

²⁹ Jesus said, "Come."

So Peter got out from the boat and walked on the water to go to Jesus.

³⁰ But when Peter saw the strong wind, he became afraid. As he began to sink, he cried out and said, "Lord, save me!"

³¹ Jesus immediately stretched out his hand, took hold of Peter, and said to him, "You of little faith, why did you doubt?"

³² Then when Jesus and Peter went into the boat, the wind ceased blowing. ³³ Then the disciples in the boat worshiped Jesus and said, "Truly you are the Son of God."

³⁴ When they had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret. ³⁵ When the men in that place recognized Jesus, they sent messages everywhere into the surrounding area, and they brought to him everyone who was sick. ³⁶ They begged him that they might just touch the edge of his garment, and as many as touched it were healed.

Matthew 14

14:1-12

Who was Herod the tetrarch?

[14:1]

See: King Herod

What were the powers that were at work with Jesus?

[14:2]

Herod said that certain powers were at work in Jesus. At this time, many Jews thought that someone received great power to do miracles if they were resurrected. Since Herod thought Jesus was John the Baptist resurrected, this is why he thought Jesus received his power to do miracles. Herod did not think God gave Jesus the power to do these things.

See: Resurrect (Resurrection) ; Miracle; King Herod

Why did Herod arrest John the Baptist?

[14:3]

John the Baptist spoke against King Herod. He said the things Herod did were evil. John said it was wrong for Herod to marry Herodias because her husband Philip was still alive. This made Herodias angry. Herodias wanted to kill John. However, Herod worried about what people would do if he killed John because the people knew John to be a prophet. Therefore, he put him into prison.

See: Leviticus 20:21

See: Prophet; King Herod

Who was Herodias?

[14:3]

Herodias was the wife of King Herod. Before he married her, Herodias was married to Herod’s brother Philip.

What was a prophet?

[14:5]

See: Prophet

What was a “birthday” celebration?

[14:6]

A birthday is a celebration of the day someone was born. Every year on the same day on which a person was born, people celebrated that person.

What did it mean that Herodias’ daughter’s dance pleased Herod?

[14:6]

Scholars think that in ancient times, it was common for a woman to dance in a sensual way. That is, they danced in a way that made the people watching them want to have sex.

What was an oath?

[14:7]

See: Swear (Oath)

Why was Herod upset with his step-daughter’s request?

[14:9]

Herod was upset because he did not want to kill John the Baptist. He knew John was a man who honored God. However, he did not want people to see him break his oath. Therefore, he had John killed.

See: Swear (Oath); King Herod

Why did John’s disciples take his body and bury it?

[14:12]

John’s disciples took his body away and buried it. This honored John as a prophet. According to the Law of Moses, a person who died needed to be buried immediately.

See: Disciple; Law of Moses

14:13-21

What were the five loaves about which the disciples spoke?

[14:17]

The loaves of bread about which the disciples spoke were round, flat cakes of bread about the size of a man’s hand.

Why did Jesus “bless” the bread?

[14:19]

When Jesus blessed the bread, he was thanking God for giving them the bread.

How much did the people have left over after they ate?

[14:20]

After they ate, the disciples had far more food left than what they began with. Scholars think this was to show how great this miracle was.

See: Miracle

How many people ate the bread and fish?

[14:21]

Matthew said that 5000 men ate the bread and fish. There were also women and children who needed to eat. Therefore, many more than 5000 people ate.

14:22-33

What was the fourth watch of the night?

[14:25]

When Matthew wrote about the fourth watch, he was writing about a time after midnight, between 3:00 and 6:00 a.m.

What was a ghost?

[14:26]

The disciples saw Jesus walking on the water. They did not think anyone could do this. Therefore, they thought he was a ghost. A “ghost” referred to the spirit of someone who had died. The disciples thought he was not real, even though he could be seen.

See: Disciple; Spirit (Spiritual)

What did Peter doubt?

[14:31]

Matthew wrote that Peter doubted something. That is, he did not trust in Jesus to do the thing he promised to do.

Why did the disciples worship Jesus?

[14:33]

The disciples worshipped Jesus because they believed he was the Son of God. They believed Jesus is God because only God could do the miracles Jesus did.

See: Disciple; Worship; Son of God; Jesus is God

Where was Gennesaret?

[14:34]

See Map: Gennesaret

Matthew 14:1

About that time

"In those days" or "While Jesus was ministering in Galilee"

heard the news about Jesus

"heard reports about Jesus" or "heard about the fame of Jesus"

Matthew 14:2

He said

"Herod said"

has risen from the dead

The words "the dead" speak of all dead people together in the underworld. To rise from the dead speaks of coming alive again.

Therefore these powers are at work in him

Some Jews at that time believed if a person came back from the dead he would have powers to do mighty things.

Matthew 14:3

Herod had arrested John, bound him, and put him in prison

"Herod ordered his soldiers to arrest and bind John the Baptist and put him in prison"

Philip's wife

Philip was Herod's brother. Herod had taken Philip's wife to be his own wife.

Matthew 14:4

For John had said to him, "It is not lawful for you to have her as your wife."

"For John had said to Herod that it was not lawful for Herod to have Herodias as his wife."

It is not lawful

Philip was still alive when Herod married Herodias.

Matthew 14:5

would have killed him

"wanted to kill John"

he feared

"Herod feared"

they regarded him

"they regarded John"

Matthew 14:6

in the midst

"in the midst of the guests attending the birthday celebration"

Matthew 14:8

After being instructed by her mother

"After her mother instructed her"

she said

"the daughter of Herodias said to Herod"

platter

a very large plate

Matthew 14:9

The king was grieved by her request

"The king was grieved because she had asked him to kill John"

he ordered that it should be done

"he ordered his men to do what she said"

Matthew 14:11

his head was brought on a platter and given to the girl

"someone brought his head on a platter and gave it to the girl"

Matthew 14:12

his disciples

John's disciples"

the corpse

"the dead body"

they went and told Jesus

"the disciples of John went and told Jesus what had happened to John the Baptist"

Matthew 14:13

heard this

"heard what happened to John" or "heard the news about John"

When the crowds heard of it

"When the crowds heard where Jesus had gone" or "When the crowds heard that he had left"

on foot

This means that the people in the crowd were walking.

Matthew 14:15

the disciples came to him

"Jesus's disciples came to him"

the hour has already passed

"the day is already over."

Matthew 14:16

But Jesus said to them

“But Jesus said to his disciples”

Matthew 14:17

five loaves of bread

Loaves of bread are lumps of dough that have been shaped and baked.

Matthew 14:19

He took

"He held in his hands." He did not steal them.

broke the loaves

"tore the loaves"

Matthew 14:20

and were filled

"until they were full" or "until they were no longer hungry"

they took up

"the disciples gathered up" or "some people gathered up"

Matthew 14:24

being tossed about by the waves

"and the disciples could not control the boat because of the large waves"

Matthew 14:25

In the fourth watch of the night

"Just before dawn"

walking on the sea

"walking on top of the water"

Matthew 14:26

ghost

a spirit that has left the body of a person who has died

Matthew 14:30

when Peter saw the strong wind

"when Peter saw that the wind was tossing the waves back and forth" or "when he realized how strong the wind was"

Matthew 14:31

You of little faith, why

"You have so little faith! Why"

why did you doubt?

"you should not have doubted that I could keep you from sinking."

Matthew 14:33

Son of God

This refers to Jesus, the Son of God. It is best to translate “Son” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human son.

Matthew 14:34

When they had crossed over

"When Jesus and his disciples had crossed over the lake"

Gennesaret

This is a small town on the northwest shore of the Sea of Galilee.

Matthew 14:36

his garment

"his robe" or "what he was wearing"

were healed

"became well"

Chapter 15

¹ Then some Pharisees and scribes came to Jesus from Jerusalem. They said, ² "Why do your disciples violate the traditions of the elders? For they do not wash their hands when they eat bread."

³ He answered and said to them, "Then why do you violate the commandment of God for the sake of your traditions?

⁴ For God said, 'Honor your father and your mother,' and 'He who speaks evil of his father or mother will surely die.' ⁵ But you say, 'Whoever says to his father or mother, "Whatever help you would have received from me is now a gift given to God," ⁶ that person does not need to honor his father.' In this way you have made void the word of God ¹ for the sake of your traditions.

⁷ You hypocrites! Well did Isaiah prophesy about you when he said,

⁸ 'This people honors me with their lips,

but their heart is far from me.

⁹ They worship me in vain

because they teach as their doctrines the commandments of people.'"

¹⁰ Then he called the crowd to himself and said to them, "Listen and understand— ¹¹ Nothing that enters into the mouth defiles a person. Instead, what comes out of the mouth, this is what defiles a person."

¹² Then the disciples came and said to Jesus, "Do you know that the Pharisees were offended when they heard this statement?"

¹³ Jesus answered and said, "Every plant that my heavenly Father has not planted will be rooted up. ¹⁴ Let them alone; they are blind guides. If a blind person guides another blind person, both will fall into a pit."

¹⁵ Peter responded and said to Jesus, "Explain this parable to us."

¹⁶ Jesus said, "Are you also still without understanding? ¹⁷ Do you not understand that whatever goes into the mouth passes into the stomach and then goes out into the latrine?

¹⁸ But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart. They are the things that defile a person. ¹⁹ For from the heart proceed evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false witness, and slander. ²⁰ These are the things that defile a person. But to eat with unwashed hands does not defile a person."

²¹ Then Jesus went away from there and withdrew toward the regions of the cities of Tyre and Sidon. ²² Behold, a Canaanite woman came out from that region. She shouted out and said, "Have mercy on me, Lord, Son of David! My daughter is severely demon-possessed."

²³ But Jesus answered her not a word. His disciples came and begged him, saying, "Send her away, for she is shouting after us."

²⁴ But Jesus answered and said, "I was not sent to anyone except to the lost sheep of the house of Israel."

²⁵ But she came and bowed down before him, saying, "Lord, help me."

²⁶ He answered and said, "It is not proper to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs."

²⁷ She said, "Yes, Lord, but even the dogs eat some of the crumbs that fall from their masters' tables."

²⁸ Then Jesus answered and said to her, "Woman, great is your faith; let it be done for you just as you wish." Her daughter was healed from that hour.

²⁹ Jesus left that place and went near to the Sea of Galilee. Then he went up a hill and sat there. ³⁰ Large crowds came to him. They brought with them lame, blind, mute, and crippled people, and many others who were sick. They presented them at Jesus' feet, and he healed them. ³¹ So the crowd marveled when they saw the mute persons speak, the crippled made well, the lame walking, and the blind seeing. They glorified the God of Israel.

³² Jesus called his disciples to him and said, "I have compassion on the crowd because they have stayed with me for three days already and have nothing to eat. I do not want to send them away without eating, or they may faint on the way."

³³ The disciples said to him, "Where can we get enough loaves of bread in such a deserted place to satisfy so large a crowd?"

³⁴ Jesus said to them, "How many loaves do you have?"

They said, "Seven, and a few small fish."

³⁵ Then Jesus commanded the crowd to sit down on the ground.

³⁶ He took the seven loaves and the fish, and after giving thanks, he broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples. The disciples gave them to the crowd. ³⁷ The people all ate and were satisfied. Then they gathered up seven baskets full of the broken pieces that were left over. ³⁸ Those who ate were four thousand men, besides women and children. ³⁹ Then Jesus sent the crowds away and got into the boat and went into the region of Magadan.

¹The best ancient copies have the word of God ; some other ancient copies have the commandment. It is difficult to choose the better reading.

Matthew 15

15:1-20

Why did the Pharisees and scribes come from Jerusalem?

[15:1]

The Pharisees and scribes came from Jerusalem to see what Jesus and the disciples were doing.

See: Pharisees; Scribe; Disciple

What was the tradition of the elders?

[15:2]

The tradition of the elders were the things the Pharisees and Scribes taught. They taught these things because other teachers before them taught these things. These were not things taught in the Law of Moses.

See: Pharisees; Scribe; Law of Moses

Why did people not eat without washing their hands?

[15:2]

In ancient Israel, the Jews did not eat unless they washed their hands in a certain way. Their hands were not dirty, they were just not washed in the way the Pharisees and scribes taught that they needed to be washed. These were certain rules made by the Jewish teachers, which Matthew called the “traditions of the elders.” They taught that Jews needed to wash their hands after they went to the marketplace. They needed to wash because they were Gentiles in the marketplace and Gentiles were unclean. These rules were not in the Law of Moses.

See: Law of Moses; Clean and Unclean; Gentile

What did Matthew say about honoring your father and mother?

[15:4]

In the Law of Moses, children were told to honor their father and mother. However, the Jewish teachers in Israel taught something different. They taught that children could promise something to God. If they did this, they did not need to give it to help their parents. Neither did they need to use it in a certain way or to give it to a priest. Jesus said this did not obey the Law of Moses, nor obey the command to honor your father and mother.

See: Law of Moses; Priest (Priesthood)

Why would someone die for speaking evil about his father or mother?

[15:4]

In the Law of Moses, it said that whoever curses or insults his mother or father will die.

See: Exodus 21:17

See: Curse; Law of Moses

What did Matthew write in verse 6?

[15:6]

Some ancient copies of the Greek New Testament contain the words “word of God.” Other ancient copies of the Greek New Testament contain the word “commandment” instead of “word of God.” Scholars do not know what Matthew wrote.

See: Differences in the Ancient Copies of the Bible

How did the Pharisees and scribes make void the word of God?

[15:6]

Jesus said that the Pharisees and Scribes made void the word of God. That is, when they made up their own rules, they emptied the Law of Moses in some way. It made people think they were following the laws God made, but they were following rules made by men.

See: Pharisees; Scribe; Word of God; Law of Moses

What was a hypocrite?

[15:7]

A hypocrite was someone who said one thing and did something different. The Pharisees and Scribes were hypocrites when they said they lived in a way that honored God when they really lived in a way that dishonored God.

See: Hypocrisy (Hypocirte); Pharisees; Scribe

When did Isaiah write these things?

[15:7]

See: Isaiah 29:13

What defiled someone?

[15:11]

Jesus said that things that entered into a person did not defile them, that is, it did not make them unclean. Instead, it was the things that came out of people that defiled them. That is, it was things a person thought and did that made them unclean.

See: Clean and Unclean

What did Jesus want to teach when he told this parable?

[15:13]

Jesus told the disciples a parable. He spoke about a plant being taken out of the ground. He wanted the disciples to know that God will stop the things the Pharisees taught. He also told them that the Pharisees were like blind people. This is a metaphor. The Pharisees could not help people know how to live in a way that honored God because they themselves did not know how to live in a way that honored God.

See: Parable; Disciple; Pharisees; Metaphor

What is sexual immorality?

[15:19]

See: Sexualimmorality

15:21-39

Where were Tyre and Sidon?

[15:21]

Tyre and Sidon were cities outside of Israel.

See Map: Tyre and Sidon

Why did this woman shout at Jesus?

[15:22]

Matthew wrote that a Canaanite woman came shouting at Jesus. This woman was a Gentile. Despite this, she believed that Jesus was the Messiah and could heal her daughter.

See: Gentile; Messiah (Christ); Son of David;Demon Possession (Casting Out Demons)

See Map: Canaan

What did Jesus teach through this woman?

[15:24, 15:25, 15:26, 15:27, 15:28]

At this time, Jesus was teaching the Jews and wanted the Jews to believe in him. When Jesus spoke about the “lost sheep of the house of Israel,” he was speaking about the Jews who needed the messiah.

The Jews believed that the Gentiles were like dogs. That is, they were less than human in some way. This is a metaphor. Jesus used this to talk about how people cared for their dogs and because of this they can know that God cares for and loves the Gentiles. When Jesus healed this woman, he wanted the disciples to know that he loved the Gentiles, even though the Jews were the people of God.

See: Pharisees; Gentile; Clean and Unclean; Shepherd; People of God; Metaphor; Disciple

Who did Jesus heal?

[15:30]

Jesus healed many people near the Sea of Galilee. Many of these people were Gentiles. The crowds were amazed and they glorified God.

See: Glory (Glorify); Gentile

See Map: Sea of Galilee

What was meant by the words, “such a deserted place”?

[15:33]

When the disciples talked about being in a deserted place, they were in a place where there was nowhere to buy food. Perhaps they were in the wilderness or desert.

See: Disciple

How many people would be full after eating one loaf of bread?

[15:34]

Bread was made into a loaf. In ancient times, a person needed at least one loaf a day to live. For a meal, seven loaves and a few fish would have only fed a few small families.

How much fish and bread were left over?

[15:37]

When Matthew said there were 7 large baskets of food left over after everyone ate, this showed that this was a great miracle.

See: Miracle

Matthew 15:2

Why do your disciples violate the traditions of the elders?

"Your disciples do not respect the rules that our ancestors have given us."

traditions of the elders

This is not the same as the law of Moses. This refers to later teachings and interpretations of the law given by religious leaders after Moses.

they do not wash their hands

"they do not wash their hands properly"

when they eat bread

"before they eat"

Matthew 15:3

Then why do you violate the commandment of God for the sake of your traditions?

"And I see that you refuse to obey God's commands just so that you can follow what your ancestors taught you!"

Matthew 15:4

He who speaks evil of his father or mother will surely die

"The people should execute anyone who speaks evil of his father or mother"

Matthew 15:5

But you say

Here "you" refers to the Pharisees and scribes.

Matthew 15:6

that person does not need to honor his father

The religious leaders taught that a person does not need to show respect to his parents by taking care of them.

you have made void the word of God

"you have treated the word of God as if it were invalid" or "you have ignored God's commands"

for the sake of your traditions

"because you want to follow your traditions"

Matthew 15:7

Well did Isaiah prophesy about you

"Isaiah told the truth in this prophecy about you"

when he said

"when he said what God told him"

Matthew 15:8

This people honors me with their lips

"These people say all the right things to me"

but their heart is far from me

"but they do not really love me"

Matthew 15:9

They worship me in vain

"Their worship means nothing to me" or "They only pretend to worship me"

the commandments of people

"the rules that people make up"

Matthew 15:11

enters into the mouth ... comes out of the mouth

“Things that go into the mouth do not defile a person”

Matthew 15:12

the Pharisees were offended when they heard this statement

“this statement made the Pharisees angry” or “the Pharisees became angry when you said that”

Matthew 15:13

Every plant that my heavenly Father has not planted will be rooted up

Jesus is teaching that the Pharisees do not actually belong to God, so God will remove them.

my heavenly Father

will be rooted up

"my Father will uproot" or "he will take out of the ground" or "he will remove"

Matthew 15:14

Let them alone

The word "them" refers to the Pharisees.

blind guides ... both will fall into a pit

“they are like blind guides.” The Pharisees do not understand God’s commands or how to please him.

Matthew 15:16

Are you also still without understanding?

"I am disappointed that you, my disciples, still do not understand what I teach!"

Matthew 15:17

Do you not understand ... into the latrine?

"Surely you understand ... into the latrine."

passes into the stomach

"goes into the stomach"

latrine

This a polite term for the place where people bury body waste.

Matthew 15:18

things that come out of the mouth

"words that a person says"

from the heart

"from inside the person" or "from a person's mind"

Matthew 15:19

murder

the act of killing innocent people

Matthew 15:20

to eat with unwashed hands

"eating without first washing one's hands"

Matthew 15:21

Jesus went away

"Jesus and his disciples went away"

Matthew 15:22

a Canaanite woman came out from that region

“a woman who was from that region and who belonged to the group of people called Canaanites came.”

Have mercy on me

"Have mercy and heal my daughter"

Son of David

"Son of David" is also a title for the Messiah, and the woman may have been calling Jesus by this title.

My daughter is severely demon-possessed

"A demon is controlling my daughter terribly" or "A demon is tormenting my daughter severely"

Matthew 15:23

answered her not a word

"said nothing to her"

Matthew 15:24

I was not sent to anyone except to the lost sheep ... Israel

"I was sent only to the lost sheep ... Israel"

to the lost sheep of the house of Israel

“the people of Israel. They are like lost sheep.” See how you translated this in Matthew 10:6.

Matthew 15:25

she came

"the Canaanite woman came"

bowed down before him

This shows that the woman humbled herself before Jesus.

Matthew 15:26

It is not proper to take the children's bread and throw it to the little dogs

The basic meaning is that it is not right to take what is supposed to belong to Jews and give it to non-Jews.

the children's bread

"the children's food"

the little dogs

The Jews considered dogs to be unclean animals. Here they are used as an image for non-Jews.

Matthew 15:27

even the little dogs eat some of the crumbs that fall from their masters' tables

The woman means non-Jews should be able to have a small amount of the good things Jews are throwing away.

little dogs

Use words here for dogs of any size that people keep as pets.

Matthew 15:28

let it be done

"I will do"

Her daughter was healed

"Jesus healed her daughter" or "Her daughter became well"

from that hour

"at exactly the same time" or "immediately"

Matthew 15:30

lame, blind, mute, and crippled people

"those who could not walk, those who could not see, those who could not talk, and those whose arms or legs did not function"

They presented them at Jesus' feet

"The crowds placed the sick people on the ground in front of Jesus"

Matthew 15:31

the crippled made well

"the crippled persons ... the lame persons ... the blind persons become well"

Matthew 15:33

Where can we get enough loaves of bread in such a deserted place to satisfy so large a crowd?

"There is nowhere nearby that we can get enough bread for such a large crowd."

Matthew 15:34

Seven, and a few small fish

"We have seven loaves of bread, and we also have a few small fish"

Matthew 15:36

he broke the loaves

"he tore the loaves"

Matthew 15:37

they gathered

"the disciples gathered" or "some people gathered"

Matthew 15:39

Magadan

This region is sometimes called "Magdala."

Chapter 16

¹ The Pharisees and Sadducees came and tested him by asking him to show them a sign from the sky. ² But he answered and said to them, "When it is evening, you say, 'It will be fair weather, for the sky is red.'

³ When it is morning, you say, 'It will be foul weather, for the sky is red and overcast.' You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times. ⁴ An evil and adulterous generation seeks for a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of Jonah." Then Jesus left them and went away.

⁵ When the disciples reached the other side, they had forgotten to take bread. ⁶ Jesus said to them, "Watch out and beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees."

⁷ The disciples reasoned among themselves and said, "It is because we took no bread."

⁸ Jesus was aware of this and said, "You of little faith, why do you reason among yourselves and say that it is because you have taken no bread?

⁹ Do you not understand? Do you not remember the five loaves for the five thousand, and how many baskets you gathered up? ¹⁰ Or the seven loaves for the four thousand, and how many baskets you took up?

¹¹ How is it that you do not understand that I was not speaking to you about bread? Watch out and beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees." ¹² Then they understood that he was not telling them to beware of yeast in bread, but to beware of the teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees.

¹³ Now when Jesus came to the regions near Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, "Who do people say that the Son of Man is?"

¹⁴ They said, "Some say John the Baptist; some, Elijah; and others, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets."

¹⁵ He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?"

¹⁶ Answering, Simon Peter said, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."

¹⁷ Jesus answered and said to him, "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for flesh and blood have not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. ¹⁸ I also say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church. The gates of Hades will not prevail against it.

¹⁹ I will give to you the keys of the kingdom of heaven. Whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." ²⁰ Then Jesus commanded the disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Christ.

²¹ From that time Jesus started to tell his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem, suffer many things at the hands of the elders and chief priests and scribes, be killed, and be raised back to life on the third day.

²² Then Peter took him aside and rebuked him, saying, "May this be far from you, Lord! May this never happen to you!"

²³ But Jesus turned and said to Peter, "Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me, for you do not think about the things of God, but about the things of people."

²⁴ Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If anyone wants to follow me, he must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me. ²⁵ For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. ²⁶ For what does it profit a person if he gains the whole world but forfeits his life? What can a person give in exchange for his life?

²⁷ For the Son of Man will come in the glory of his Father with his angels. Then he will reward every person according to his deeds. ²⁸ Truly I say to you, there are some of you standing here who will not taste death until they see the Son of Man coming in his kingdom."

Matthew 16

16:1-12

Why did the Pharisees and Sadducees want a sign from heaven?

[16:1]

The Pharisees wanted Jesus to give them a sign from the sky. That is, a sign from heaven. They wanted Jesus to prove to them that God gave Jesus permission to do these miracles. They thought that Satan gave Jesus permission to do these things (see: 9:34; Mark 3:22)

See: Pharisees; Sadducees; Sign; Heaven; Miracle; Satan (The Devil)

Why did Jesus speak about the weather?

[16:2]

In ancient Israel, the Pharisees and Sadducees predicted the weather. It is very difficult to know what will happen with the weather. Jesus said they were able to see certain things and know what the weather would do. However, they saw the things Jesus did, but could not understand the things that were happening around them.

See: Pharisees; Sadducees

What were the signs of the times?

[16:3]

Jesus spoke about the “signs of the times.” He was speaking about certain things that happened so that people would know that Jesus is the messiah.

See: Sign; Messiah (Christ)

What was an evil and adulterous generation?

[16:4]

When Jesus spoke about an “adulterous generation,” he used a metaphor. Some scholars think Jesus was speaking directly to the Scribes and Pharisees, and told them they were an “adulterous generation”. That is, the Scribes and Pharisees did not truly obey and follow God completely.

See: Metaphor; Adultery; Generation; Scribe; Pharisees

What was the sign of Jonah?

[16:4]

Jonah was a prophet in ancient Israel (see: Jonah 1-4). He was swallowed by a fish and was in the fish for three days. After three days, he was released. Something like this was going to happen to Jesus. He would die and after three days, he would come back to life.

See: Resurrect (Resurrection) ; Son of Man; Sign; Prophet

Why did Jesus talk about yeast?

[16:6]

Jesus used the metaphor of yeast. He did this to talk about the Pharisees teaching evil things. This would make other people want to do evil things.

See: Yeast (Leaven); Metaphor; Pharisees

Why did the disciples reason with each other?

[16:7]

The disciples did not understand what Jesus meant when he talked about the yeast. They thought he was concerned because they did not bring bread with them.

See: Yeast (Leaven)

What was little faith?

[16:8]

Jesus said that certain people had little faith. That is, these people did not trust in Jesus very much.

See: Faith (Believe in)

Why did Jesus ask the disciples so many questions?

[16:8, 16:9, 16:10, 16:11]

Jesus asked many different questions because they did not understand what Jesus was saying about who he is and why he did these things. They knew Jesus had already fed more than 5000 people through a miracle, but they forgot he could do this and worried that the people would not eat. Therefore, Jesus rebuked them. That is, he spoke to them in a way that they would know they did something wrong.

16:13-20

Where was Caesarea Philippi?

[16:13]

See Map: Caesarea Philippi

Who is the Son of Man?

[16:13]

Many years before Jesus lived, Daniel prophesied about the “son of man” (see: Daniel 7:13). Jesus asked who people thought fulfilled this prophecy. People did not agree about who fulfilled Daniel’s prophecy. Jesus is the Son of man.

See: Son of Man; Prophecy (Prophesy) ; Fulfill (Fulfillment)

Who did Peter believe that Jesus was?

[16:16]

See: Messiah (Christ), Son of God

How did Peter know that Jesus was the Messiah and the Son of God?

[16:17]

Peter knew that Jesus was the messiah and the Son of God because God helped him to know this. He needed God to help him know this.

See: Messiah (Christ), Son of God; Reveal (Revelation)

On what rock will Jesus build his church?

[16:18]

Some scholars think when Jesus spoke about the rock upon which he would build his church, he used a metaphor. They think he was speaking about what Peter said. That is, that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God. A “rock” is solid and a large rock cannot be changed. Jesus is the messiah and this can never be changed. Fewer scholars think Jesus was speaking about making his church with the things done by Peter and the apostles.

See: Ephesians 2:20

See: Church; Messiah (Christ); Son of God; Apostle

What are the gates of hades?

[16:18]

Jesus spoke about the gates of Hades. Hades is another name for hell. Some scholars think Jesus wanted to say that Satan is not able to stop Jesus from doing the things Jesus wanted to do. Other scholars think this was a metaphor. People who believe in Jesus will not live forever in hell after they die.

See: Hell; Satan (The Devil); Metaphor

What are the keys to the kingdom of heaven?

[16:19]

Jesus said that he will give Peter the keys to the kingdom of heaven. He gave Peter permission to do something. Scholars think Jesus gave Peter and the other apostles permission to teach people how to live in a way that honored God. They would help people understand Jesus and the Law of Moses.

See: Kingdom of God; Apostle; Law of Moses

What did it mean for Peter to bind and loose things on earth?

[16:19]

Jesus gave Peter permission to bind and loose certain things on the earth. Some scholars think Jesus gave Peter, and the apostles, permission to rule over Christians. That is, they could allow Christians to do some things and they could make Christians stop doing other things. Some scholars think Peter will be able to do this when Jesus rules on the earth. Other scholars think God was going to teach people, through the apostles, how to live in a way that honored God after Jesus died. He would do this by revealing himself to the apostles and prophets.

See: Kingdom of God; Reveal (Revelation); Apostle; Prophet

Why did Jesus not want the disciples to tell people that he is the messiah?

[16:20]

See: Messianic Secret; Disciple; Messiah (Christ)

16:21-28

Who were the elders, chief priests, and scribes?

[16:21]

When Matthew spoke about the elders, he was speaking about older men in Israel who lead the people in some way. Together these three groups helped to lead Israel to worship and obey God.

See: Chief Priest; Scribe

How would Jesus raised back to life on the third day?

[16:21]

When Jesus said that he would be raised back to life after three days, he was talking about his resurrection.

See: Resurrect (Resurrection)

Why did Peter rebuke Jesus?

[16:23]

Peter rebuked Jesus, that is. Peter said that Jesus must not be speaking correctly. Peter thought that the messiah would not suffer and die in the way Jesus said. However, Jesus rebuked Peter. He said Peter did something wrong. The things he said were the things that Satan wanted Peter to say. He wanted the messiah to be the way he wanted the messiah to be, and not to do the things God wanted the messiah to do.

See: Satan (The Devil); Messiah (Christ)

How was Peter a stumbling block to Jesus?

[16:23]

Jesus said that Peter was a stumbling block. This was a metaphor. Even though he did not know it, Peter was tempting Jesus. He was trying to get Jesus to do what Satan wanted, not what God wanted.

See: Stumble (Stumbling Block); Tempt (Temptation); Metaphor

How could a person “take up his cross”?

[16:24]

Jesus died on a cross. He obeyed God even though he suffered for obeying God. He wanted people to do the same thing. He wanted them to obey God, even if they suffered because they obeyed God.

See: Cross

How does someone save their life?

[16:25]

Jesus talked about “life” in two ways in this passage. He spoke about the life a person has before they die and the life they have after they die. He wanted people to obey God before they die if they wanted to live with God in heaven forever. Those who die on Earth because they obeyed God will live with God in heaven after they die.

See: Heaven; Save (Salvation, Saved from Sins)

How will the Son of Man come to the earth?

[16:27]

Jesus said that the Son of Man will come to the earth with great glory (see: Daniel 7:13-14).

See: Son of Man; Glory (Glorify)

How will Jesus reward people?

[16:27]

See: Reward

How will people not die before they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom?

[16:28]

Jesus said that some of the people with him will not die before they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom. Some scholars think Jesus was speaking about revealing himself to the disciples after his resurrection. Other scholars think Matthew will write about this in Matthew 17.

See: Son of Man; Kingdom of God; Reveal (Revelation); Disciple; Resurrect (Resurrection)

Matthew 16:1

tested him

"challenged him" or "wanted to trap him"

Matthew 16:2

When it is evening

"If the sky is red in the evening" or "If the sky is red when the sun is setting"

fair weather

This means clear, calm, and pleasant weather.

for the sky is red

As the sun is setting, Jews knew that if the color of the sky changes to red, it is a sign the next day will be clear and calm.

Matthew 16:3

When it is morning

"If the sky is red in the morning" or "If the sky is red when the sun is rising"

foul weather

"cloudy, stormy weather"

You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky

"You know how to look at the sky and understand what kind of weather you will have"

but you cannot interpret the signs of the times

"but you do not know how to look at what is happening right now and understand what it means"

Matthew 16:4

An evil and adulterous generation seeks for a sign ... given to it

"You are an evil and adulterous generation who demands signs from me ... given to you"

An evil and adulterous generation

"An unfaithful generation" or "A godless generation"

no sign will be given to it except the sign of Jonah

"The only sign that will be given to it is the sign of Jonah"

the sign of Jonah

"what happened to Jonah" or "the miracle that God did for Jonah."

Matthew 16:6

the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees

Translate as "yeast" here and do not explain its meaning in your translation. This meaning will be made clear in 16:12.

Matthew 16:8

why do you reason ... taken no bread?

"I am disappointed that you think it was because you forgot to bring bread that I talked about the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees."

Matthew 16:9

Do you not understand? Do you not remember ... you gathered up?

"Surely you understand and remember ... you gathered up!" or "You should understand. You should remember ... you gathered up."

Matthew 16:10

Or the seven loaves ... you took up?

"Surely you also remember the seven loaves ... you took up!"

Matthew 16:11

How is it that you do not understand that I was not speaking to you about bread?

"You should have understood that I was not really speaking about bread."

the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees

Here “yeast” represents evil ideas and wrong teaching. Translate as “yeast” and do not explain the meaning in your translation.

Matthew 16:13

the Son of Man

Jesus is referring to himself.

Matthew 16:16

the Son of the living God

This is an important title for Jesus that shows his relationship to God.

the living God

Here "living" contrasts the God of Israel to all the false gods and idols that people worshiped. Only the God of Israel is alive and has power to act.

Matthew 16:17

flesh and blood have not revealed

"a human did not reveal"

but my Father who is in heaven

"but it was my Father in heaven who revealed this to you"

my Father

This refers to God the Father. It is best to translate “Father” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human father.

Matthew 16:18

you are Peter

The name Peter means "rock."

upon this rock I will build my church

Possible meanings are 1) “this rock” represents Peter, or 2) “this rock” represents the truth that Peter had just said in Matthew 16:16

The gates of Hades will not prevail against it

Possible meanings are 1) “the powers of death will not overcome my church” or 2) “my church will break down the power of death the way an army breaks into a city.”

Matthew 16:19

I will give to you

Here the word “you” refers to Peter.

the keys of the kingdom of heaven

Keys are objects that are used to lock or unlock doors. Here they represent authority.

the kingdom of heaven

This refers to God's rule as king. The phrase "kingdom of heaven" is used only in the book of Matthew. If possible, use "heaven" in your translation.

Whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven

“God in heaven will approve whenever you forbid or allow something on earth”

Matthew 16:21

suffer many things at the hand of the elders ... scribes

"suffer many things because of the elders ... scribes"

scribes, be killed, and be raised back to life on the third day

"scribes. People will then kill him, and on the third day God will make him become alive again"

Matthew 16:22

Peter took him aside

"Peter spoke to Jesus when no one else could hear them"

May this be far from you

"No" or "Never" or "May God forbid this"

Matthew 16:23

Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me

"Get behind me, because you are acting like Satan! You are a stumbling block to me" or "Get behind me, Satan! I call you Satan because you are a stumbling block to me"

Get behind me

"Get away from me"

you do not think about the things of God, but about the things of people

"you do not think about what God thinks is important; instead, you only thing about the things that people think are important"

Matthew 16:24

to follow me

"to be my disciple" or "to be one of my disciples"

must deny himself

"must not give in to his own desires" or "must forsake his own desires"

take up his cross, and follow me

"and obey me even to the point of suffering and dying" or "and he must obey me even to the point of suffering and dying"

and follow me

"and obey me"

Matthew 16:25

whoever loses his life for my sake

This does not mean the person must necessarily die. It means he will consider obeying Jesus as being more important than his own life. Alternate translation: “whoever gives up his life for my sake”

for my sake

"because he trusts me" or "on my account" or "because of me"

will find it

"will find true life"

Matthew 16:26

For what does it profit a person ... his life?

"It does not profit a person ... his life."

if he gains the whole world

"if he gains everything he desires"

but forfeits his life

"but he loses his life"

What can a person give in exchange for his life?

"There is nothing that a person can give to regain his life."

Matthew 16:27

the Son of Man ... his Father ... Then he

"I, the Son of man ... my Father ... Then I"

will come in the glory of his Father

"will come, having the same glory as my Father"

with his angels

"and the angels will be with him" or "and the angels will be with me"

his Father

This is an important title for God that describes the relationship between God and the Son of Man, Jesus.

according to his deeds

"according to what that person has done"

Matthew 16:28

Truly I say to you

"I tell you the truth." This phrase adds emphasis to what Jesus says next.

will not taste death

"will not experience death" or" will not die"

until they see the Son of Man coming in his kingdom

"until they see the Son of Man coming as King" or "until they see the evidence that the Son of Man is King"

Chapter 17

¹ Six days later Jesus took with him Peter, James, and John his brother, and brought them up a high mountain by themselves. ² He was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his garments became as brilliant as the light.

³ Behold, there appeared to them Moses and Elijah talking with him. ⁴ Peter answered and said to Jesus, "Lord, it is good for us to be here. If you desire, I will make here three shelters—one for you, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah."

⁵ While he was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and behold, there was a voice out of the cloud, saying, "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Listen to him."

⁶ When the disciples heard it, they fell facedown and were very afraid. ⁷ Then Jesus came and touched them and said, "Get up and do not be afraid." ⁸ Then they looked up but saw no one except Jesus only.

⁹ As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus commanded them, saying, "Report this vision to no one until the Son of Man has risen from the dead."

¹⁰ His disciples asked him, saying, "Why then do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?"

¹¹ Jesus answered and said, "Elijah will indeed come and restore all things. ¹² But I tell you, Elijah has already come, but they did not recognize him. Instead, they did whatever they wanted to him. In the same way, the Son of Man will also suffer at their hands." ¹³ Then the disciples understood that he was speaking to them about John the Baptist.

¹⁴ When they had come to the crowd, a man came to him, knelt before him, and said, ¹⁵ "Lord, have mercy on my son, for he is epileptic and suffers severely. For he often falls into the fire or the water. ¹⁶ I brought him to your disciples, but they could not cure him."

¹⁷ Jesus answered and said, "Unbelieving and perverse generation, how long will I have to stay with you? How long must I bear with you? Bring him here to me." ¹⁸ Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of him, and the boy was healed from that hour.

¹⁹ Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, "Why could we not cast it out?"

²⁰ Jesus said to them, "Because of your small faith. For I truly say to you, if you have faith even as small as a grain of mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you." ²¹ ¹

²² While they stayed in Galilee, Jesus said to his disciples, "The Son of Man will be given over into the hands of people, ²³ and they will kill him, and the third day he will be raised up." The disciples were deeply grieved.

²⁴ When they had come to Capernaum, the men who collected the two-drachma tax came to Peter and said, "Does not your teacher pay the two-drachma tax?"

²⁵ He said, "Yes."

When Peter came into the house, Jesus spoke to him first and said, "What do you think, Simon? From whom do the kings of the earth collect tolls or taxes? From their sons or from others?"

²⁶ "From others," Peter answered.

"Then the sons are free," Jesus said.

²⁷ "But so that we do not cause the tax collectors to stumble, go to the sea, throw in a hook, and draw in the fish that comes up first. When you have opened its mouth, you will find a shekel. Take it and give it to the tax collectors for me and you."

¹The best ancient copies do not have v. 21, But this kind of demon does not go out except with prayer and fasting .

Matthew 17

17:1-13

How was Jesus transfigured?

[17:2]

When Matthew said that Jesus was transfigured, he wanted to say that Jesus was changed in some way. The disciples did not see Jesus’ body as it had been. They saw him as he will be when he returns to the earth in glory.

See: Disciple; Jesus' Return to Earth; Glory (Glorify)

Why did Peter, James, and John see Elijah and Moses?

[17:3]

Peter, James, and John saw Elijah and Moses. Elijah and Moses were in heaven. Scholars think this was a symbol. Elijah represented the prophets, and Moses represented the Law of Moses. They symbolized that both the Law and the prophets prophesied about Jesus the messiah.

See: Symbol; Messiah (Christ); Old Testament (Law and Prophets); Law of Moses; Prophecy (Prophesy)

Why did Peter want to make three shelters?

[17:4]

Peter wanted to make three shelters. He wanted to make one for Jesus, one for Elijah, and one for Moses. He did not realize that Jesus was greater than Elijah and Moses. Scholars disagree about why he wanted to do this.

Some scholars think Peter wanted to build three tents of meeting. This is because he wanted to build a place where God could talk to men once again. He did not know that God was already talking to people through Jesus. They did not need to meet in a tent to learn what God said to them.
Some scholars think Peter wanted to build three shelters (see: Leviticus 23). Perhaps he thought this was for the Feast of Shelters when the messiah came to reign over the world (see: Zechariah 14:16)

See: Tent of Meeting; Festival of Shelters; Messiah (Christ)

Who spoke from the cloud?

[17:5]

God the Father was the one who was speaking from the cloud. In the Bible, heaven is often spoken about as if it is in the clouds.

See: God the Father; Heaven

Why were the disciples afraid?

[17:6]

The disciples were afraid because they thought the time was coming for God to judge the world. Perhaps the disciples was partly afraid, but partly worshipping God.

See: Disciple; Judge (Judgment); Day of Judgment

Why did Jesus tell them not to say anything?

[17:9]

See: Messianic Secret

What did Jesus mean when he said, “until the Son of Man has risen from the dead”?

[17:9]

Jesus spoke about the Son of Man rising from the dead. He was speaking about himself. He would be resurrected. At this time, the disciples did not understand that Jesus would be resurrected. Certain Jewish teachers even taught that no one would rise from the dead. This is why they discussed what Jesus said among themselves.

See: Son of Man; Resurrect (Resurrection) ; Disciple

What did the Scribes teach about Elijah?

[17:10]

The Scribes taught that Elijah would return to the earth before the messiah came. He would tell Israel to repent and to be ready for the messiah. It is not known whether they taught that Elijah would come back to the earth or that there would be a prophet who was like Elijah.

See: Scribe; Messiah (Christ); Repent (Repentance); Prophet

Who was Jesus talking about when he said that Elijah has come?

[17:12, 17:13]

Jesus told them that the Scribes were right about Elijah. A prophet like Elijah did help Israel to be ready for the messiah and he wanted them to repent of the sins. When Jesus spoke about this Elijah, he was speaking about John the Baptist.

See: Malachi 3:1

See: Scribe; Prophet; Messiah (Christ); Repent (Repentance); Sin

17:14-23

Why did this man kneel before Jesus?

[17:14]

A man knelt before Jesus. He did this to honor Jesus.

What was wrong with this man’s son?

[17:15]

This man had a son who was epileptic. The epilepsy was because he had a demon in him that caused him to shake violently. It also caused his son to fall into water and fire.

See: Demon; Demon Possession (Casting Out Demons)

Why could the disciples not cast out this demon?

[17:16]

Jesus said the disciples could not cast out this demon because they did not have enough faith. Scholars think the disciples had doubts about what Jesus had commanded they do earlier (see: 10:8).

See: Disciple; Demon; Demon Possession (Casting Out Demons); Faith (Believe in)

Why did Jesus rebuke the “unbelieving and corrupt generation”?

[17:17]

Jesus rebuked the “unbelieving and corrupt generation.” That is, he said that many people in Israel were evil for rejecting him. He was not speaking about everyone in Israel. Some people believed in him. Perhaps Jesus said this because he wanted the disciples to know that they acted in the same way the non-Christians acted.

See: Disciple; Generation

Why did Jesus say, “nothing will be impossible for you”?

[17:20]

When Jesus said, “nothing will be impossible for you,” he was not saying that people who believe in him can do anything. Instead, he was saying that when someone obeys God, they can do things they did not think they could do. God can make anything happen and he can use people to make anything happen that he wants to happen.

Jesus said that they did not trust him very much. He said their faith was like a mustard seed. This was a metaphor. The mustard seed was very small seed. It was about 1 millimeter in size. A mustard tree was very large. Jesus wanted to say that if they trusted him, he would help them to do very great things.

See: Metaphor; Faith (Believe in)

Where was Galilee?

[17:22]

See map: Galilee

Who is the Son of Man?

[17:22]

Jesus is the Son of Man.

See: Son of Man

How will Jesus be raised up?

[17:23]

See: Resurrect (Resurrection)

17:24-27

What was the half-shekel tax?

[17:24]

Jesus spoke about a half-shekel tax. This was a tax the Jews paid to serve the temple in Jerusalem. A half-shekel was the amount of money a typical person earned in one day. Jews, from the age of twenty-one, were required to pay this tax once every year.

See: Tax (Tax Collector, Toll); Temple

Why did Jesus talk about the tax that was paid to the temple?

[17:25]

Jesus spoke about the temple to his disciples. He said that the sons of kings do not pay taxes to the kings. Therefore, he did not need to pay taxes to the temple because he is the Son of God. However, Jesus did not want the people collecting the taxes to reject him because they did not understand that he is the Son of God. He got the money from a fish. This was a miracle.

See: Disciple; Son of God; Miracle; Temple

How much was the shekel?

[17:27]

The shekel was the same amount of money as four drachma. Because of this, Jesus had enough money to pay the tax for him and Peter.

Matthew 17:2

He was transfigured before them

When they looked at him, his appearance was different from what it had been.

his garments

"what he was wearing"

Matthew 17:5

overshadowed them

"came over them"

there was a voice out of the cloud

"God spoke to them from out of the cloud"

Matthew 17:6

the disciples heard it

"the disciples heard God speak"

Matthew 17:8

they ... saw no one except Jesus only

"they ... saw only Jesus"

Matthew 17:9

the Son of Man

Jesus is speaking about himself.

Matthew 17:10

Why then do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?

The disciples are referring to the belief that Elijah will come back to life and return to the people of Israel before the Messiah comes.

Matthew 17:11

restore all things

"put things in order" or "get the people ready to receive the Messiah"

Matthew 17:12

they ... their

All occurrences of these words may mean either 1) the Jewish leaders or 2) all the Jewish people.

the Son of Man will also suffer at their hands

"they will make the Son of Man suffer"

the Son of Man will

"I, the Son of Man, will"

Matthew 17:15

have mercy on my son

"have mercy on my son and heal him"

is epileptic

"has seizures"

Matthew 17:17

Unbelieving and perverse generation, how

"This generation does not believe in God and loves to do evil rather than good. How"

how long will I have to stay with you? How long must I bear with you?

"I am tired of being with you! I am tired of your unbelief and corruption!"

Matthew 17:18

the boy was healed

"the boy became well"

from that hour

"immediately" or "at that moment"

Matthew 17:19

Why could we not cast it out?

"Why could we not make the demon come out of the boy?"

Matthew 17:20

For I truly say to you

"I tell you the truth." This adds emphasis to what Jesus says next.

if you have faith even as small as a grain of mustard seed

A mustard seed is very small, but it grows into a large plant. Jesus means it only takes a small amount of faith to do a great miracle.

nothing will be impossible for you

"you will be able to do anything"

Matthew 17:22

The Son of Man will be given over into the hands of people

“Someone will give the Son of man over into the hands of people” or “Someone will take the Son of Man and put him under people’s power”

The Son of Man

Jesus is referring to himself in the third person.

into the hands of people

"to the control of the people" or "to the people"

Matthew 17:23

him ... he

Jesus is referring to himself

he will be raised up

"God will raise him up" or "God will cause him to become alive again"

deeply grieved

very sad and upset, as when a friend or family member dies.

Matthew 17:24

When they

"When Jesus and his disciples"

the two-drachma tax

"the temple tax"

Matthew 17:25

What do you think, Simon? From whom do the kings of the earth collect tolls or taxes? From their sons or from others?

""Listen, Simon. When kings collect taxes, they collect it from people who are not members of their own family. Do you agree that this is true?"

their sons

"their own family" or "the people of their own country"

Matthew 17:26

"From others," Peter answered

"'Yes, that is true,' Peter said" or "Peter said that he agreed with Jesus"

the sons

"their own family" or "the people of their own country"

Matthew 17:27

But so that we do not cause the tax collectors to stumble, go

“But so that we do not cause the tax collectors to think that we do something that is very bad”

throw in a hook

Fishermen tied hooks to the end of a line, then threw it in the water to catch fish.

its mouth

"the fish's mouth"

a shekel

a silver coin worth four days' wages

for me and you

Here "you" is singular and refers to Peter. Each man had to pay a half shekel tax. So one shekel would be enough for Jesus and Peter to pay their taxes.

Chapter 18

¹ At that time the disciples came to Jesus and said, "Who is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?"

² Jesus called to himself a little child, set him among them, ³ and said, "Truly I say to you, unless you turn and become like little children, you will in no way enter the kingdom of heaven.

⁴ Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. ⁵ Whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name receives me. ⁶ But whoever causes one of these little ones who believes in me to stumble, it would be better for him that a large millstone should be hung about his neck, and that he should be sunk into the depths of the sea.

⁷ "Woe to the world because of stumbling blocks! For it is necessary that those stumbling blocks come, but woe to the person through whom those stumbling blocks come! ⁸ If your hand or your foot causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away from you. It is better for you to enter into life maimed or lame than to be thrown into the eternal fire having two hands or two feet.

⁹ If your eye causes you to stumble, pluck it out and throw it away from you. It is better for you to enter into life with one eye than to be thrown into the fiery hell having both eyes.

¹⁰ See that you do not despise any of these little ones. For I say to you that in heaven their angels always look on the face of my Father who is in heaven. ¹¹ ¹

¹² What do you think? If anyone has a hundred sheep, and one of them goes astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the hillside and go off seeking the one that went astray? ¹³ If he finds it, truly I say to you, he rejoices over it more than over the ninety-nine that did not go astray. ¹⁴ In the same way, it is not the will of your Father in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.

¹⁵ "If your brother sins against you, go and rebuke him, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you will have gained your brother. ¹⁶ But if he does not listen to you, take one or two others along with you so that by the mouth of two or three witnesses every word might be confirmed.

¹⁷ And if he refuses to listen to them, tell the matter to the church. If he also refuses to listen to the church, let him be to you as a pagan and a tax collector.

¹⁸ I tell you truly, whatever things you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. ¹⁹ Again I tell you truly, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father who is in heaven. ²⁰ For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there I am in their midst."

²¹ Then Peter came and said to Jesus, "Lord, how often will my brother sin against me and I forgive him? Until seven times?"

²² Jesus said to him, "I do not tell you seven times, but until seventy times seven.

²³ Therefore the kingdom of heaven is similar to a certain king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. ²⁴ As he began the settling, one servant was brought to him who owed him ten thousand talents. ²⁵ But since he did not have the means to repay, his master commanded him to be sold, together with his wife and children and everything that he had, and payment to be made.

²⁶ So the servant fell down, bowed down before him, and said, 'Master, have patience with me, and I will pay you everything.' ²⁷ So the master of that servant, since he was moved with compassion, released him and forgave him the debt.

²⁸ But that servant went out and found one of his fellow servants, who owed him one hundred denarii. He took hold of him, began to choke him, and said, 'Pay me what you owe.'

²⁹ "But his fellow servant fell down and pleaded with him, saying, 'Have patience with me, and I will repay you.'

³⁰ But the first servant refused. Instead, he went and threw him into prison until he should pay him what he owed. ³¹ When his fellow servants saw what had happened, they were deeply grieved. They came and told their master everything that had happened.

³² "Then that servant's master called him and said to him, 'You wicked servant, I forgave you all that debt because you pleaded with me. ³³ Should you not have had mercy on your fellow servant, even as I had mercy on you?'

³⁴ His master was angry and handed him over to the torturers until he would pay all that was owed. ³⁵ So also my heavenly Father will do to you if you do not forgive your brother from your heart."

¹The best ancient Greek copies do not have the sentence that some translations include, For the Son of Man came to save that which was lost .

Matthew 18

18:1-14

Why did Matthew write about who was the greatest in the kingdom of God?

[18:1]

Some scholars think Matthew wrote about who was the greatest in the kingdom of God because the disciples were thinking about who would have the most power. However, Jesus taught that greatness was about being humble and being a servant.

See: Mark 9:33-37

See: Kingdom of God; Disciple

Why did Jesus talk about little children?

[18:3]

Jesus helped the disciples to understand what he said by talking about a child. Scholars think Jesus was speaking about how a child is humble and needed a parent to live. They think this was also a metaphor. In the same way, the disciples needed to be humble, knowing they depended on God for everything.

See: Metaphor; Disciple

What was a stumbling block?

[18:6]

See: Stumble (Stumbling Block); Walk

What was a woe?

[18:7]

See: Woe

Did Jesus want people to cut off their hands and feet?

[18:8]

Jesus said that people should cut off their hands or feet if it caused other people to sin. This was a metaphor. Some scholars think that Jesus was saying it was better to go to heaven without enjoying the sinning on earth, than to go on sinning in this world and then go to hell.

See: Metaphor; Hell; Sin

What is the eternal fire?

[18:8]

Jesus spoke about an eternal fire. He was speaking about hell, where people are punished with fire.

See: Hell; Punish (Punishment); Fire

Why did Jesus speak about angels?

[18:10]

In ancient Israel, the Jews taught that only certain angels were close to God and could see God. However, Jesus said that all the angels are always looking at God. He wanted to tell them that God cared very much for these “little children.”

See: Angel

What did Matthew write in verse 11?

[18:11]

Some of the ancient copies of the Greek New Testament contain the words, “for the Son of Man came to save that which was lost.” Older and more ancient copies of the Greek New Testament do not contain these words. Therefore, scholars think Matthew did not write these words.

See: Differences in the Ancient Copies of the Bible

What did Jesus teach about when he told people about the sheep?

[18:12]

Jesus told them a parable about sheep. Just as a shepherd rejoices when he finds the one lost sheep, so God rejoices when one sinner repents. Scholars think Jesus told this parable to teach that God’s will is that no one would perish, that is, that no one would reject God.

See: Parable; Shepherd; Heaven; Repent (Repentance); Will of God

18:15-20

Who are the brothers about which Jesus spoke?

[18:15]

When Jesus spoke about brothers, he was speaking about Christians.

See: Family of God

What was meant by the words, “gained your brother”?

[18:15]

Jesus said that a Christian who helps another Christian not to sin has gained his brother. That is, his brother has been restored to him in friendship and is at peace with him and with God.

See: Sin; Family of God

How was “every word confirmed”?

[18:16]

Sometimes a Chrstian who sins does not listen to another Christian who is trying to get him to stop sinning. Jesus said when this happens to take one or two other Chrsitians to listen to the words of the Christian who sinned. This is so that every word will be confirmed. That is, there would be evidence to bring about forgiveness and reconciliation between these Christians.

See: Sin

What did it mean to treat a person “as a Gentile and a tax collector” if they did not repent of their sin?

[18:17]

When a Christian sinned and did not listen to correction from other Christians, Jesus said to treat them the same way they treated a tax collector or a Gentile. That is, they were to be separated from other Christians in some way. Jesus wanted the Christians to treat the sinning Christian in the same way they treat non-Christians who sin. That is, they are to tell them that they need to repent.

See: Gentile; Sin; Repent (Repentance)

How did the disciples bind and loose things on the earth?

[18:18]

Jesus gave the disciples permission to bind and loose certain things on the earth. Some scholars think Jesus gave the apostles permission to rule other Christians. That is, they could say that doing certain things were good and doing other things is evil. Some scholars think the apostles will be able to do this when Jesus rules on the earth. Other scholars think God was going to teach people, through the apostles, how to live in a way that honored God after Jesus died. He would do this by revealing himself to the apostles and prophets.

See: Kingdom of God; Reveal (Revelation); Apostle; Prophet

What did Jesus teach the disciples about being in their midst?

[18:20]

Jesus taught the disciples about prayer. Jesus wanted his disciples to know that when two or three of them are gathered together to worship him, he would help them in some way. He also wanted them to know that God would still be with them after Jesus died.

See: Disciple; Pray (Prayer)

18:21-35

Why did Peter ask Jesus about forgiving other Christians seven times?

[18:21]

Peter asked Jesus how many times he should forgive another Christian. The Jews taught that someone needed to forgive 3 times. Scholars think Peter thought to forgive someone seven times would be the most anyone could forgive.

See: Family of God; Forgive (Forgiveness, Pardon)

How many is seventy times seven?

[18:22]

Seventy times seven is 490.

Why did Jesus tell Peter a parable about the king’s servants?

[18:23]

Jesus told Peter a parable about a certain king's servants. He wanted Peter to know about the kingdom of heaven. He wanted the disciples to remember that Jesus forgave them. They could never have worked hard enough to earn God’s favor and be at peace with God. Jesus forgave them freely. When they do not forgive another Christian freely, Jesus said they act in the same way this servant acted. They forgot they were forgiven more by God than this person needed to be forgiven by them. He treated this man worse than God treated him. Because of this, God will punish Christians when they do not forgive other Christians.

See: Parable; Kingdom of God; Serve; Atone (Atonement); Punish (Punishment)

How much money is 10,000 talents?

[18:24]

A talent was a very large amount of money. It would have normally taken someone about 20 years to earn one talent. This was an amount of money that no one would ever be able to pay back.

How much money is a denarii?

[18:28]

At this time, a person typically earned a denarii every day they worked.

See: Denarius

Matthew 18:1

Who is greatest

"Who is the most important" or "Who among us will be the most important"

in the kingdom of heaven

"in God's kingdom" or "when our God in heaven establishes his rule on earth"

Matthew 18:3

Truly I say to you

"I tell you the truth." This adds emphasis to what Jesus says next.

unless you turn ... children, you will in no way enter the kingdom of heaven

"you will enter the kingdom of heaven only if you turn ... children"

enter the kingdom of heaven

"enter God's kingdom" or "belong to our God in heaven when he establishes his rule on earth"

Matthew 18:4

is the greatest

"is the most important" or "will be the most important"

in the kingdom of heaven

"in God's kingdom" or "when our God in heaven establishes his rule on earth"

Matthew 18:5

in my name

"because of me" or "because he is my disciple"

Whoever ... in my name receives me

"When someone ... in my name, it is like he is welcoming me" or "When someone ... in my name, it is as if he were welcoming me"

Matthew 18:6

millstone

"a heavy stone"

Matthew 18:7

to the world

"to the people of the world"

stumbling blocks ... those stumbling blocks come ... the person through whom those stumbling blocks come

"things that cause people to sin ... things come that cause people to sin ... any person who causes others to sin"

Matthew 18:8

If your hand or your foot causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away from you

Jesus exaggerates here to emphasize that people must do anything necessary to remove from their lives what causes them to sin.

causes you to stumble

“causes you to sin”

than to be thrown into the eternal fire having two hands or two feet

"than to have both hands and feet when God throws you into the eternal fire"

Matthew 18:9

into life

"into eternal life"

than to be thrown into the fiery hell having both eyes

"than to have both eyes when God throws you into the fiery hell"

the fiery hell

"hell, which is full of fire" or "the fire of hell"

Matthew 18:10

See that

"Be careful that" or "Be sure that"

you do not despise any of these little ones

"you show respect to these little ones"

that in heaven their angels always look on the face of my Father who is in heaven

Jesus means that the most important angels speak to God about these little ones.

always look on the face of my Father

"are always close to my Father" or "are always in the presence of my Father"

my Father

This is an important title for God that describes the relationship between God and Jesus.

Matthew 18:12

What do you think?

"Think about how people act." or "Think about this."

does he not leave ... astray?

"he will always leave ... astray."

Matthew 18:13

truly I say to you

"I tell you the truth." This adds emphasis to what Jesus says next.

Matthew 18:14

it is not the will of your Father in heaven that one of these little ones should perish

"your Father in heaven does not want any of these little ones to die" or "your Father in heaven does not want even one of these little ones to die"

Father

This is an important title for God.

Matthew 18:15

your brother

"your fellow believer"

you will have gained your brother

"you will have made your relationship with your brother good again"

Matthew 18:16

so that by the mouth of two or three witnesses every word might be confirmed

"so that two or three witnesses may say that what you say about your brother is true"

Matthew 18:17

if he refuses to listen to them

"if your fellow believer refuses to listen to the witnesses who came with you"

to the church

"to the whole community of believers"

let him be to you as a pagan and a tax collector

"treat him as you would treat a pagan or tax collector."

Matthew 18:18

I tell you truly

"I tell you the truth." This adds emphasis to what Jesus says next.])

whatever things you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven

"God in heaven will bind whatever you bind on earth and loose whatever you loose" or "God in heaven will approve whatever you forbid or allow on earth"

Matthew 18:19

my Father

This refers to God the Father. It is best to translate “Father” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human father.

Matthew 18:20

two or three

"two or more" or "at least two."

in my name

"because of me" or "because they are my disciples"

Matthew 18:22

seventy times seven

Possible meanings are 1) "70 times 7" or 2) "77 times." If using a number would be confusing, you can translate it as "more times than you can count" or "you must always forgive him."

Matthew 18:23

to settle accounts with his servants

"his servants to pay him what they owed him" or "to have his servants tell him what they had done with the goods he had entrusted to them"

Matthew 18:24

As he began the settling

“As he began to settle the accounts”

one servant was brought

"someone brought one of the king's servants"

ten thousand talents

“10,000 very valuable coins” or “10,000 bags of gold” or “a huge amount of money”

Matthew 18:25

his master commanded him to be sold ... and payment to be made

"the king commanded his servants to sell the man ... and to pay the debt with the money from the sale"

Matthew 18:27

he was moved with compassion

"he felt compassion for the servant"

released him

"let him go"

Matthew 18:28

one hundred denarii

"one hundred days' wages"

Matthew 18:29

and pleaded with him

"and begged him"

Matthew 18:30

he went and threw him into prison

"the first servant went and threw his fellow servant into prison"

Matthew 18:31

told their master

"told the king"

deeply grieved

very sad and upset, as when a friend or family member dies.

Matthew 18:32

you pleaded with me

"you begged me"

Matthew 18:33

Should you not have ... you?

"You should have ... you!"

Matthew 18:34

His master

"The king"

handed him over to the torturers

“he ordered his servants to give him over to those who would torture him”

that was owed

“all that he owed”

Matthew 18:35

my heavenly Father

This is an important title for God that describes the relationship between God and Jesus.

from your heart

"sincerely" or "completely"

Chapter 19

¹ It came about that when Jesus had finished these words, he departed from Galilee and came to the region of Judea that is beyond the Jordan River. ² Great crowds followed him, and he healed them there.

³ Pharisees came to him, testing him, saying to him, "Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any cause?"

⁴ Jesus answered and said, "Have you not read that he who made them from the beginning made them male and female?

⁵ He who made them also said, 'For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and join to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.' ⁶ So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one tear apart."

⁷ They said to him, "Why then did Moses command us to give a certificate of divorce and then to send her away?"

⁸ He said to them, "For your hardness of heart, Moses allowed you to divorce your wives, but from the beginning it was not that way. ⁹ I say to you, whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery." ¹

¹⁰ The disciples said to Jesus, "If that is the case of a man with his wife, it is not good to marry."

¹¹ But Jesus said to them, "Not everyone can accept this saying, but only those to whom it is given. ¹² For there are eunuchs who were born that way from their mother's womb, and there are eunuchs who were made eunuchs by men, and there are eunuchs who made themselves eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. He who is able to accept this teaching, let him accept it."

¹³ Then some little children were brought to him so that he would lay his hands on them and pray, but the disciples rebuked them. ¹⁴ But Jesus said, "Permit the little children, and do not forbid them to come to me, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such ones." ¹⁵ He placed his hands on the children, and then he went away from there.

¹⁶ Behold, a man came to Jesus and said, "Teacher, what good thing must I do that I may have eternal life?"

¹⁷ Jesus said to him, "Why do you ask me about what is good? Only one is good, but if you want to enter into life, keep the commandments."

¹⁸ The man said to him, "Which commandments?"

Jesus said, "Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not bear false witness,

¹⁹ honor your father and your mother, and love your neighbor as yourself."

²⁰ The young man said to him, "All these things I have obeyed. What do I still need?"

²¹ Jesus said to him, "If you wish to be perfect, go, sell your possessions, and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me." ²² But when the young man heard what Jesus said, he went away sorrowful, for he had many possessions.

²³ Jesus said to his disciples, "Truly I say to you, it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. ²⁴ Again I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God."

²⁵ When the disciples heard it, they were very astonished and said, "Who then can be saved?"

²⁶ Jesus looked at them and said, "With people this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."

²⁷ Then Peter answered and said to him, "See, we have left everything and followed you. What then will we have?"

²⁸ Jesus said to them, "Truly I say to you, in the new age when the Son of Man sits on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

²⁹ Every one who has left houses, brothers, sisters, father, mother, children, or land for my name's sake will receive one hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life. ³⁰ But many who are first will be last, and the last will be first.

¹The best ancient copies do not have and the man who marries a woman who is divorced commits adultery .

Matthew 19

19:1-12

Where were Galilee and Judea?

[19:1]

See Map: Galilee; Judea

Where was the area beyond the Jordan River?

[19:1]

Jesus left Capernaum to go to Judea. This was a place past the Jordan River. Judea was on the west side of the Jordan River. This was an area where Jews lived. Matthew wrote about the area east of the Jordan river when he wrote the words, beyond the Jordan River. This was a place where Gentiles lived.

See: Gentile

See Map: Capernaum; Jordan River; Judea

How did the Pharisees test Jesus?

[19:3]

Matthew wrote that the Pharisees tested Jesus. That is, they wanted to get him to say something that made people angry. It would make certain people angry if Jesus said people could not get divorced. It would make certain other people angry if Jesus said that people could get divorced.

See: Pharisees; Divorce

What did Moses teach about divorce?

[19:7, 19:8]

Moses taught about divorce in the Law of Moses. The Pharisees thought that Moses said a man could divorce his wife. However, they did not think that a woman could divorce her husband. Some Pharisees taught that a man could only divorce his wife if she committed adultery or did evil things. Other Pharisees taught that any man could divorce his wife if he wanted to, even if she did not do anything wrong.

When a man wrote his wife a “certificate of divorce,” he sent her away with a certificate saying that she no longer belonged to the man as his wife. This would help her to marry another man.

See: Deuteronomy 24:1-4

See: Divorce; Pharisees; Law of Moses; Adultery

What did Jesus teach about divorce?

[19:9]

Jesus told the Pharisees what the Law of Moses actually said. Moses did not want people to get divorced because God did not want people to get divorced. Instead, Moses knew that some people had hard hearts. That is, they did not want to listen to God’s will about divorce. Moses allowed people to be divorced because of this. However, a certificate of divorce must be written.

Jesus told them about the marriage between Adam and Eve (see: Genesis 1:27; 2:24). A husband and wife became one flesh. That is, it was never God’s desire or intention for a married couple to divorce. Jesus only allowed for divorce when there was sexual immorality.

See: Divorce; Pharisees; Law of Moses; Sin; Will of God

What was sexual immorality?

[19:9]

See: Sexual Immorality

Why did the disciples say to Jesus, “it is not good to marry”?

[19:10]

Jesus said that it was not good to marry. Some scholars think the disciples were asking Jesus about not marrying again after being divorced. Other scholars think the disciples wanted to know from Jesus if it was good to marry at all, because they served Jesus.

See: Disciple

What did Jesus mean when he said, “not everyone can accept this teaching”?

[19:11]

Jesus said, “not everyone can accept this teaching.” Some scholars think Jesus was talking about his teaching in verses four through nine. Other scholars think he wanted to say that only certain people will understand the things he taught in this verse.

What was a eunuch?

[19:12]

A eunuch was a man who was incapable of producing children. However, Jesus spoke about different types of eunuchs. Some men are born with a damaged penis and they are not able to have sex. Other men were made eunuchs. In ancient times, a king may have cut off a man’s penis if he put this man in charge of caring for his many wives. Other people made themselves eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of God. This was a metaphor. They chose not to marry so they could better serve Jesus.

See: Metaphor; Kingdom of God

19:13-15

Why did people want their children to have Jesus touch them?

[19:13]

The people brought their children to have Jesus touch them. They thought that if they did this, Jesus would bless the children. He did this by putting his hands on them and saying a blessing.

See: Bless (Blessing)

Why did the disciples rebuke the people for bringing their children to have Jesus touch them?

[19:13]

The disciples rebuked the people for bringing their children to have Jesus touch them. Scholars think the disciples thought Jesus needed to be doing other things. Perhaps they thought that Jesus should be teaching adults instead.

See: Disciple

What did Jesus teach the disciples about the kingdom of God?

[19:14]

Jesus told the disciples they were wrong for rebuking these people. Jesus wanted the little children to come to him. This was because many adults rejected Jesus. They thought they knew more about the Messiah than they did. However, the children were willing to learn and did not reject Jesus.

After this, Jesus taught the disciples about the kingdom of God. If people wanted to have the kingdom of God, they needed to believe in Jesus the same way children believed in Jesus. Children often trusted someone completely, but adults often only trusted someone who had earned it.

See: Disciple; Messiah (Christ); Kingdom of God

19:16-30

What was having eternal life?

[19:16]

See: Eternal Life

How was someone good?

[19:17]

When Jesus spoke about someone who was good, he was speaking about someone who is always does the right thing. Only God is good in this way. Scholars think Jesus said that he is God. The man did not understand what it meant to be “good” and to obey God perfectly.

See: Jesus is God

What were these commandments about which Jesus spoke?

[19:17]

Jesus talked about some of the ten commandments in the Law of Moses.

See: Exodus 20; Deuteronomy 5

See: Ten Commandments; Law of Moses

What was adultery?

[19:18]

See: Adultery

What was bearing false witness?

[19:18]

Someone who bore false witness lied about someone. They said someone did something they did not do or did not do something that they did. It also meant to give a false report in a court of law.

See: Ancient Trials (Lawsuit); Witness (Martyr)

Why did Jesus want this man to sell everything he had?

[19:21]

Jesus knew that the man loved money more than anything else. He did not truly trust in God or that Jesus was the messiah. He trusted in the things he had. Because of this, Jesus wanted him to sell all he had in order to follow him.

All people do not need to sell everything they have to be Christians. This was not a command for all people in order for them to follow Jesus. Jesus knew the man’s money kept him from completely trusting in him.

See: Messiah (Christ)

What was treasure in heaven?

[19:21]

Jesus spoke about some rewards people will get after they die when he spoke about treasure in heaven.

See: Reward; Heaven

Why was it hard for the rich to enter the kingdom of God?

[19:23]

Some scholars think it was hard for the rich to enter the kingdom of God because the people who were rich held onto their money and valuable things too tightly. That is, they trusted in their possession more than they trusted God. Jesus used the metaphor of a camel. A camel would never fit through the eye of a needle, which is less than one millimeter. However, Jesus wanted the disciples to know that though things might seem impossible to men, all things are possible for God.

See: Bless (Blessing); Kingdom of God; Metaphor

Advice to translators: Someone who has a lot of money is considered rich. They have riches.

What did Jesus want to teach the disciples?

[19:26]

Jesus wanted to teach his disciples that there was only one way to have peace with God and to enter into his kingdom. People need to trust in Jesus. People should not trust in anything or anyone else.

See: Disciple; Kingdom of God

When will the Son of Man sit on his glorious throne?

[19:28]

Jesus spoke about a time when the Son of Man will sit on his glorious throne. Jesus was speaking about himself ruling his kingdom.

See: Son of Man; Glory (Glorify); Kingdom of God; Throne

How will the disciples judge Israel?

[19:28]

Jesus said that the disciples will sit on twelve thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel. They will judge Israel in some way. However, he did not say when or how they would do this.

See: Disciple; Tribes of Israel; Judge (Judgment)

How will people be given “a hundred times” as much as they left behind?

[19:29]

Some scholars think Jesus spoke about the many homes that would be opened for the servants of God. The brothers and sisters were those who believed in Jesus and became brothers and sisters in Christ. Other scholars think Jesus spoke about spiritual blessings that replaced the homes and families that were left behind. The blessings might be considered “a hundred times” better than what they left behind.

See: Family of God; Spirit (Spiritual); Bless (Blessing); Reward

Matthew 19:1

It came about that when he had finished these words

"When" or "After" he "had finished teaching these things"

departed from

"walked away from" or "left"

Matthew 19:3

came to him

"came to Jesus"

testing him, saying to him

"and challenged him by asking him" or "and wanted to trap him by asking him"

Matthew 19:4

Have you not read that he who made them from the beginning made them male and female?

"Surely you have read that in the beginning when God created people he made them male and female."

Matthew 19:5

He who made them also said, 'For this reason ... flesh.'

"And surely you know that God also said that for this reason ... flesh."

For this reason

This is a part of the quotation from Genesis story about Adam and Eve. In that context the reason a man will leave his father and mother is because God created a woman to be the man's companion.

join to his wife

"stay close to his wife" or "live with his wife"

the two will become one flesh

"they will become like one person"

Matthew 19:6

So they are no longer two, but one flesh

"So a husband and wife are no longer like two persons, but they are like one person"

Matthew 19:7

They said to him

"The Pharisees said to Jesus"

command us

"command us Jews"

certificate of divorce

This is a document that legally ends the marriage.

Matthew 19:8

For your hardness of heart

"Because of your stubbornness" or "Because you are stubborn"

your hardness ... allowed you ... your wives

Jesus is speaking to the Pharisees, but Moses gave this command many years earlier to their ancestors. Moses's command applied to all Jewish men in general.

from the beginning

Here "beginning" refers to when God first created man and woman.

Matthew 19:9

marries another

"marries another woman"

Matthew 19:11

to whom it is given

"to whom God gives it" or "whom God enables to follow it"

Matthew 19:12

there are eunuchs who were made eunuchs by men

"there are men whom other men have made eunuchs"

eunuchs who made themselves eunuchs

Possible meanings are 1) "men who have made themselves eunuchs by removing their private parts" or 2) "men who choose to remain unmarried and sexually pure."

for the sake of the kingdom of heaven

"so they can better serve our God in heaven"

Matthew 19:13

some little children were brought to him

"some people brought little children to Jesus"

Matthew 19:14

for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such ones

"for when our God in heaven establishes his rule on earth, he will be king over such as these" or "for God will allow such as these into his kingdom"

belongs to such ones

“belongs to those who are like children.” This means those who are humble like children will enter God’s kingdom.

Matthew 19:16

Behold

The word "behold" alerts us to a new person in the story. Your language may have a way of doing this.

Matthew 19:17

Why do you ask me about what is good?

"You ask me about what is good" or "Think about why you ask me about what is good."

Only one is good

"God alone is completely good"

to enter into life

"to receive eternal life"

Matthew 19:19

love your neighbor as yourself

"love every other person as much as you love yourself"

Matthew 19:21

If you wish

"If you want"

to the poor

"to those who are poor"

you will have treasure in heaven

"God will reward you in heaven"

Matthew 19:23

Truly I say to you

"I tell you the truth." This phrase adds emphasis to what Jesus says next.

to enter the kingdom of heaven

"to accept our God in heaven as their king" or "to enter God's kingdom"

Matthew 19:24

it is easier ... kingdom of God

Jesus uses an exaggeration to illustrate how very difficult it is for rich people to enter the kingdom of God.

the eye of a needle

the hole near one end of a needle, through which thread is passed

Matthew 19:25

they were very astonished

"the disciples were amazed." because they believed having riches was proof that God approved of someone.

Who then can be saved?

"Then there is no one whom God will save!" or "Then there is no one who will receive eternal life!"

Matthew 19:27

we have left everything

"we have left all our wealth" or "we have given up all our possessions"

What then will we have?

"What good thing will God give us?"

Matthew 19:28

Truly I say to you

"I tell you the truth." This phrase adds emphasis to what Jesus says next.

in the new age

"at the time when God makes all things new"

the Son of Man

Jesus is speaking about himself.

sits on his glorious throne

"sits as king on his glorious throne" or "rules gloriously as king"

sit upon twelve thrones

"sit as kings on 12 thrones"

the twelve tribes of Israel

"the people of the 12 tribes of Israel"

Matthew 19:29

for my name's sake

"because of me" or "because he believes in me"

receive one hundred times as much

"receive from God 100 times as many good things as they gave up"

will inherit eternal life

"God will cause them to live forever."

Matthew 19:30

But many who are first will be last, and the last will be first

"But many who seem to be important now will be the least important, and many who seem to be unimportant now will be very important"

Chapter 20

¹ "For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. ² After he had agreed with the laborers for one denarius a day, he sent them into his vineyard.

³ He went out again about the third hour and saw other laborers standing idle in the marketplace. ⁴ To them he said, 'You also, go into the vineyard, and I will give you what is right.' So they went to work.

⁵ Again he went out about the sixth hour and again the ninth hour, and did the same. ⁶ Once more about the eleventh hour he went out and found others standing idle. He said to them, 'Why do you stand here idle all the day long?'

⁷ "They said to him, 'Because no one has hired us.'

"He said to them, 'You also go into the vineyard.'

⁸ When evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his manager, 'Call the laborers and pay them their wages, beginning from the last to the first.'

⁹ "When the laborers who had been hired at the eleventh hour came, each of them received a denarius. ¹⁰ When the first laborers came, they thought that they would receive more, but they also received one denarius each.

¹¹ When they received their wages, they complained about the landowner. ¹² They said, 'These last laborers have spent only one hour in work, but you have made them equal to us, we who have borne the burden of the day and the scorching heat.'

¹³ "But the owner answered and said to one of them, 'Friend, I do you no wrong. Did you not agree with me for one denarius? ¹⁴ Take what belongs to you and go your way. I choose to give to these last hired laborers just the same as to you.

¹⁵ Is it not lawful for me to do as I want with what belongs to me? Or are you envious because I am good?' ¹⁶ So the last will be first, and the first last." ¹

¹⁷ As Jesus was going up to Jerusalem, he took the twelve disciples aside, and on the way he said to them, ¹⁸ "See, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be given over to the chief priests and scribes. They will condemn him to death ¹⁹ and will deliver him to the Gentiles for them to mock, to flog, and to crucify him. But on the third day he will be raised up."

²⁰ Then the mother of the sons of Zebedee came to Jesus with her sons. She bowed down before him and asked for something from him.

²¹ Jesus said to her, "What do you wish?"

She said to him, "Command that these my two sons may sit, one at your right hand and one at your left hand, in your kingdom."

²² But Jesus answered and said, "You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I am about to drink?"

They said to him, "We are able."

²³ He said to them, "My cup you will indeed drink. But to sit at my right hand and at my left hand is not mine to give, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father." ²⁴ When the other ten disciples heard this, they were very angry with the two brothers.

²⁵ But Jesus called them to himself and said, "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles dominate them, and their important men exercise authority over them. ²⁶ But it must not be this way among you. Instead, whoever wishes to become great among you must be your servant, ²⁷ and whoever wishes to be first among you must be your servant, ²⁸ just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."

²⁹ As they went out from Jericho, a great crowd followed him. ³⁰ There were two blind men sitting by the road. When they heard that Jesus was passing by, they shouted, "Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us." ³¹ The crowd rebuked them, telling them to be quiet, but they cried out even more loudly, "Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us."

³² Then Jesus stood still and called to them and said, "What do you wish me to do for you?"

³³ They said to him, "Lord, that our eyes may be opened." ³⁴ Then Jesus, being moved with compassion, touched their eyes. Immediately they received their sight and followed him.

¹The best ancient copies do not have Many are called, but few are chosen .

Matthew 20

20:1-16

Why did Jesus speak a parable about a landowner?

[20:1]

Jesus told the disciples a parable about a landowner. The landowner gave each man a denarius,. This was the amount of money he would get for working one day. He gave each man the same amount of money, even though they worked for different lengths of time. He wanted to teach them about how God rewarded people. He did this in a way that was just. He does not reward people who do more things or greater things. He rewards people on how much they obey God.

See: Parable; Disciple; Kingdom of God; Reward

When did the landowner hire these men?

[20:1]

He hired some men early in the morning, perhaps at 6am. The third hour was at 9am. The sixth hour was at 12pm. The ninth hour was 3pm. The eleventh hour was at 5pm. They worked to about 6pm.

How will the first be last?

[20:16]

Jesus said that the first will be last and the last will be first. This was a metaphor. He wanted people to know that people who are not honored while they live on earth will be rewarded and honored in Jesus’ kingdom. However, the people who want to be honored while they live on earth will not be honored in Jesus’ kingdom. Jesus wanted Christians to serve other people.

See: Metaphor; Reward; Kingdom of God

What did Matthew write in verse 16?

[20:16]

Some ancient copies of the Greek New Testament contain the words “many are called, but few are chosen.” More and older copies of the Greek New Testament do not contain these words. Scholars think that Matthew did not write these words.

See: Differences in the Ancient Copies of the Bible

20:17-28

What did Jesus tell the disciples would soon happen?

[20:18]

Jesus told the disciples that he was going to die and would be made alive again. That is, he will be resurrected.

See: Disciple; Resurrect (Resurrection)

Who is the Son of Man?

[20:18]

See: Son of Man

Why did the chief priests and scribes give Jesus over to the Gentiles?

[20:19]

At this time, the Jews were not able to kill a criminal. Only their Roman leaders could do this. They were Gentiles. Jesus wanted to say that the Jewish leaders would get the Gentile leaders to kill Jesus.

See: Chief Priest; Scribe; Gentile

What did it mean to be flogged?

[20:19]

Jesus said that he was going to be flogged. That is, he would be beaten with a whip.

Who will sit at Jesus’ right and left side in heaven?

[20:21, 20:23]

Jesus will sit at God the Father’s right hand in heaven. Therefore, God is at Jesus’ left hand side in heaven. However, God the Father is the one who decides who will sit at the right hand of Jesus (see: Matthew 20:23). The mother wanted her sons to be honored in heaven more than the other disciples.

See: God the Father; Heaven; Disciple

What was the cup Jesus was about to drink?

[20:22}

Jesus said that he was about to drink from a cup. This was a metaphor. He was about to suffer and die. When they said they could drink from this cup, Jesus prophesied that they would suffer and die.

See: Metaphor; Prophecy (Prophesy)

Why were the disciples angry with James and John?

[20:24]

Some scholars think the other disciples were angry with James and John because they asked Jesus to honor them in a special way. Other scholars think the other disciples were jealous or afraid James and John might be honored over them.

See: Disciple

Why did Jesus speak about the Gentiles?

[20:25]

Jesus spoke about the Gentiles. The Gentiles ruled over the Jews and were very harsh to them. However, Jesus did not want certain Christians to rule over other Christians in this way. He wanted Christian leaders to serve other Christians. How did Jesus give his life as a ransom for many?

Jesus gave his life as a ransom for many. That is, he died so that people would be at peace with God. Matthew spoke about Jesus dying as a price to be paid for their sin. Jesus was punished for the sins of those who believe in him. By dying, Jesus set them free from being slaves to always wanting to sin.

See: Atone (Atonement); Sin; Son of Man

Who will be honored in heaven?

[20:26]

Jesus taught the disciples that certain people will be honored in heaven. Just as Jesus came to serve, so Christians who serve other people will be honored in heaven.

See: Disciple; Heaven

20:29-34

Where was Jericho?

[20:29]

See Map: Jericho

Why did the crowd rebuke these men?

[20:31]

Matthew wrote that the crowd of people rebuked the two blind men. Some scholars think they wanted the blind men to be quiet to respect Jesus. Perhaps they were being very loud. Or perhaps they were rebuked for saying that Jesus is the messiah.

See: Messiah (Christ)

How was Jesus the Son of David?

[20:31]

The blind man called Jesus the “Son of David.” David was one of Jesus’ ancestors. He called him this because the messiah was prophesied to be one of David’s descendants. He was to fulfill the covenant God made with David.

See: Messiah (Christ); Covenant with David ; Prophecy (Prophesy); Ancestor and Descendant (Fathers, Forefathers, Patriarchs)

Matthew 20:1

For the kingdom of heaven is like

This is the beginning of a parable.

Matthew 20:2

After he had agreed

"After the landowner had agreed"

one denarius

"one day's wages"

Matthew 20:3

He went out again

"The landowner went out again"

the third hour

The third hour is around nine in the morning.

standing idle in the marketplace

"standing in the marketplace not doing anything" or "standing in the marketplace with no work to do"

marketplace

a large, open-air area where people buy and sell food and other items

Matthew 20:5

Again he went out

"Again the landowner went out"

the sixth hour and again the ninth hour

The sixth hour is around noon. The ninth hour is around three in the afternoon.

did the same

This means the landowner went to the marketplace and hired workers.

Matthew 20:6

the eleventh hour

This is about five in the afternoon.

standing idle

"not doing anything" or "not having any work"

Matthew 20:8

beginning from the last to the first

"beginning with the workers who started working last, then the workers who started working earlier, and finally the workers who started working first" or "first paying the workers I hired last, then paying the workers I hired earlier in the day, and finally paying the workers I hired first"

Matthew 20:9

who had been hired

"whom the landowner hired"

Matthew 20:10

one denarius

"one day's wages"

Matthew 20:11

When they received

"When the workers who had worked the longest received"

Matthew 20:12

you have made them equal to us

"you have paid them the same amount of money as you paid us"

we who have borne the burden of the day and the scorching heat

"we who have worked the entire day, even during the hottest part"

Matthew 20:13

one of them

"one of the workers who had worked the longest"

Friend

Use a word that one man would use to address another man whom he is politely rebuking.

Did you not agree with me for one denarius?

"We already agreed that I would give you one denarius."

one denarius

"one day's wages"

Matthew 20:15

Is it not lawful for me to do as I want with what belongs to me?

"It is lawful for me do what I want with my own possessions."

Is it not lawful for me

"Do I not have the right" or "Is it not proper."

Or are you envious because I am good?

"You should not be envious because I am generous."

Matthew 20:16

So the last will be first, and the first last

"So those who seem to be unimportant now will be the most important, and those who seem to be the most important now will be the least important"

Matthew 20:17

going up to Jerusalem

Jerusalem was on top of a hill, so people had to travel up to get there.

Matthew 20:18

See, we are going

Jesus uses the word "See" to tell the disciples the must pay attention to what he is about to tell them.

the Son of Man will be given over

"someone will give the Son of Man over"

Son of Man ... him

Jesus is referring to himself.

They will condemn

The chief priests and scribes will condemn Jesus.

Matthew 20:19

and will deliver him to the Gentiles for them to mock

The chief priests and scribes will deliver Jesus to the Gentiles, and the Gentiles will mock him.

to flog

"to whip him" or "to beat him with whips"

him ... him ... he

Jesus is referring to himself

he will be raised up

"God will raise him up" or "God will make him alive again"

Matthew 20:20

the sons of Zebedee

This refers to James and John.

Matthew 20:21

at your right hand ... at your left hand

These refer to having positions of power, authority, and honor.

in your kingdom

"when you are king"

Matthew 20:22

You do not know

Here "you" is plural and refers to the mother and the sons.

Are you able

Here "you" is plural, but Jesus is only talking to the two sons.

drink the cup that I am about to drink

"suffer what I am about to suffer"

They said

"The sons of Zebedee said" or "James and John said"

Matthew 20:23

My cup you will indeed drink

"You will indeed suffer as I will suffer"

right hand ... left hand

These refer to having positions of power, authority, and honor.

but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father

"for my Father has prepared those places, and he will give them to whom he chooses"

my Father

This refers to God the Father. It is best to translate “Father” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human father.

Matthew 20:24

they were very angry with the two brothers

"the other disciples were very angry with the two brothers because each of them also wanted to sit in a place of honor next to Jesus"

Matthew 20:25

called them

"called the twelve disciples"

the rulers of the Gentiles dominate them

"the Gentile kings forcefully rule over their people"

their important men

"the important men among the Gentiles"

exercise authority over them

"have control over the people"

Matthew 20:27

to be first

"to be important"

Matthew 20:28

the Son of Man ... his life

Jesus is speaking about himself.

did not come to be served

"did not come so that other people would serve him" or "did not come so that other people would serve me"

but to serve

"but to serve other people"

to give his life as a ransom for many

"to give his life as a substitute for many" or "to give his life as a substitute to set many free"

to give his life

"to die"

for many

"for many people"

Matthew 20:30

When they heard

"When the two blind men heard"

Son of David

"Son of David" is also a title for the Messiah, and the men were probably calling Jesus by this title.

Matthew 20:32

called to them

"called to the blind men"

do you wish

"do you want"

Matthew 20:33

that our eyes may be opened

"we want you to open our eyes" or "we want to be able to see"

Matthew 20:34

being moved with compassion

"having compassion" or "feeling compassion for them"

Chapter 21

¹ As Jesus and his disciples approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage, to the Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two disciples, ² saying to them, "Go into the next village, and you will immediately find a donkey tied up there, and a colt with her. Untie them and bring them to me. ³ If anyone says anything to you about that, you will say, 'The Lord has need of them,' and that person will immediately send them with you."

⁴ Now all this happened to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet, saying,

⁵ "Tell the daughter of Zion,

'See, your King is coming to you,

Humble and riding on a donkey—

on a colt, the foal of a donkey.'"

⁶ Then the disciples went and did just as Jesus had instructed them. ⁷ They brought the donkey and the colt and put their cloaks on them, and Jesus sat upon the cloaks. ⁸ Most of the crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches off the trees and spread them in the road.

⁹ Then the crowds that went before Jesus and those that followed him were shouting,

"Hosanna to the son of David!

Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord!

Hosanna in the highest!"

¹⁰ When Jesus had come into Jerusalem, all the city was stirred and said, "Who is this?"

¹¹ The crowds answered, "This is Jesus the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee."

¹² Then Jesus entered the temple. He cast out all those who bought and sold in the temple, and turned over the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who sold doves. ¹³ He said to them, "It is written, 'My house will be called a house of prayer,' but you make it a den of robbers."

¹⁴ Then the blind and the lame came to him in the temple, and he healed them.

¹⁵ But when the chief priests and the scribes saw the marvelous things that he did, and when they heard the children shouting in the temple and saying, "Hosanna to the Son of David," they became very angry.

¹⁶ They said to him, "Do you hear what they are saying?"

Jesus said to them, "Yes! But have you never read,

'Out of the mouths of little children and nursing infants

you have prepared praise'?"

¹⁷ Then Jesus left them and went out of the city to Bethany and spent the night there.

¹⁸ Now in the morning as he returned to the city, he was hungry. ¹⁹ Seeing a fig tree along the roadside, he went to it and found nothing on it except leaves. He said to it, "May there be no fruit from you ever again," and immediately the fig tree withered.

²⁰ When the disciples saw it, they marveled and said, "How did the fig tree immediately wither away?"

²¹ Jesus answered and said to them, "Truly I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to this fig tree, but you will even say to this mountain, 'Be taken up and thrown into the sea,' and it will be done. ²² Whatever you ask for in prayer, believing, you will receive."

²³ When Jesus had come into the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came to him as he was teaching and said, "By what authority do you do these things, and who gave you this authority?"

²⁴ Jesus answered and said to them, "I also will ask you one question. If you tell me, I will tell you by what authority I do these things.

²⁵ The baptism of John—from where did it come? From heaven or from men?"

They discussed among themselves, saying, "If we say, 'From heaven,' he will say to us, 'Why then did you not believe him?'

²⁶ But if we say, 'From men,' we fear the crowd, because they all view John as a prophet." ²⁷ Then they answered Jesus and said, "We do not know."

He also said to them, "Neither will I tell you by what authority I do these things.

²⁸ But what do you think? A man had two sons. He went to the first and said, 'Son, go labor today in the vineyard.'

²⁹ "The son answered and said, 'I will not,' but afterward he changed his mind and went.

³⁰ "Then the man went to the second son and said the same thing. He answered and said, 'I will go, sir,' but he did not go.

³¹ Which of the two sons did his father's will?"

They said, "The first one."

Jesus said to them, "Truly I say to you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes will enter the kingdom of God before you do.

³² For John came to you in the way of righteousness, but you did not believe him. But the tax collectors and the prostitutes believed him. But you, even when you saw this, you did not repent afterward and believe him.

³³ "Listen to another parable. There was a man, a landowner. He planted a vineyard, set a hedge about it, dug a winepress in it, built a watchtower, and rented it out to vine growers. Then he went into another country. ³⁴ When the time of the fruit harvest approached, he sent some servants to the vine growers to collect his fruit.

³⁵ But the vine growers took his servants, beat one, killed another, and stoned still another. ³⁶ Again, the owner sent other servants, more than the first, but the vine growers treated them in the same way. ³⁷ After that, the owner sent his own son to them, saying, 'They will respect my son.'

³⁸ "But when the vine growers saw the son, they said among themselves, 'This is the heir. Come, let us kill him and take over the inheritance.' ³⁹ So they took him, threw him out of the vineyard, and killed him.

⁴⁰ Now when the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those vine growers?"

⁴¹ They said to him, "He will violently destroy those wicked people, and he will then rent out the vineyard to other vine growers, men who will give him his share of crops at the harvest time."

⁴² Jesus said to them, "Did you never read in the scriptures,

'The stone which the builders rejected

has been made the cornerstone.

This was from the Lord,

and it is marvelous in our eyes'?

⁴³ Therefore I say to you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and will be given to a nation that produces its fruits. ⁴⁴ Whoever falls on this stone will be broken to pieces. But anyone on whom it falls will be crushed."

⁴⁵ When the chief priests and the Pharisees heard his parables, they understood he was speaking about them. ⁴⁶ Seeking to arrest him, they were afraid of the crowd, because the people regarded him as a prophet.

Matthew 21

21:1-11

Where were Bethpage, and the Mount of Olives?

[21:1]

See Map: Bethpage; Mount of Olives

How did Jesus enter into Jerusalem?

[21:2]

Jesus entered Jerusalem in the same way a king returned home after a great victory in a war. Often, they rode on horses or in a chariot. Jesus entered Jerusalem on a colt because he told people that he was the messiah and the king of the Jews (see: Zechariah 9:9). He also had a great victory. He lived the perfect life and was about to die so that people could have peace with God.

See: 21:1-11; Luke 19:28-44; John 12:12-19

See: Messiah (Christ); Atone (Atonement); Chariot

See Map: Jerusalem

What was a colt?

[21:2]

A colt was a young donkey. This colt was with its mother, a donkey (see: Matthew 21:2). No one had ever ridden this colt.

Why did Jesus say, “the Lord has need of them”?

[21:3]

Some scholars think that Jesus said, “the Lord has need of them” to say that God needed them for God’s purpose. Other scholars think Jesus said this because he was calling himself Lord. That is, he was calling himself God. Still other scholars think the owner of the colt was traveling with Jesus, and Jesus said the owner had need of the colt.

See: Jesus is God

What prophet said these things?

[21:4]

When Jesus did these things, he fulfilled the prophecy Zechariah made (see: Zechariah 9:9). Jesus was the king about whom Zechariah wrote.

Why did the disciples put their cloaks on the colt?

[21:7]

The disciples put their cloaks on the colt to make it easier for Jesus to ride on it. A cloak was a thick coat people wore outside of their clothes.

See: Disciple

Why did the people put things on the road?

The road on which Jesus rode the colt was dirty. The people showed the highest honor to Jesus by putting things on the road so that he would not get dirty. In ancient times, people did this to welcome a new king (see: 2 Kings 9:13).

Why did the people shout “hosanna”?

[21:9]

The people shouted “Hosanna” because they wanted God to save them. They said that Jesus came “in the name of the Lord.” That is, God gave Jesus power and permission to reveal God’s will. They believed Jesus was the messiah who came to begin the kingdom promised to David.

See: Save (Salvation, Saved from Sins); Heaven; Bless (Blessing); Messiah (Christ); Will of God; Covenant with David ; Reveal (Revelation)

What did the people think about Jesus?

[21:11]

The people thought Jesus was a prophet. However, they did not believe he was the messiah. They did not know that he was their king.

See: Prophet;Messiah (Christ)

See Map: Nazareth; Galilee

21:12-22

Why did Jesus make people leave the temple?

[21:11, 21:12]

Jesus made people leave the temple. These were people who sold things. He did not want people to try to make money in the temple. He only wanted people to go to the temple to worship God. People from every nation were to go to the temple to pray (see: Isaiah 56:7). However, the Jews did not want other people to go to the temple to worship God. Instead, they used the area made for the Gentiles to worship God as a market to make money.

Jesus said the temple was made into a “den of robbers.” That is, a place where people who robbed other people lived (see: Jeremiah 7:11). Scholars think Jesus said the same thing Jeremiah wrote so everyone would know that the people did not honor God in the temple.

Earlier, Jesus also made people leave the temple (see: John 2:13-22).

See: Temple; Gentile; Worship; Pray (Prayer)

Why were the chief priests and scribes angry at Jesus?

[21:15]

The chief priests and scribes wanted to kill Jesus because of what he did. Some scholars think the chief priests and the scribes made money from the things sold in the temple. Jesus stopped them from making money in the temple. Other scholars think they were angry because the children said that Jesus was the messiah.

See: Temple; High Priest; Chief Priest; Scribe; Messiah (Christ)

Where did the Jewish leaders read this?

[21:16]

The Jewish leaders read the things Jesus said in Psalms (see: Psalms 8:2).

Where was Bethany?

[21:17]

See Map: Bethany

Why did Jesus curse the fig tree?

[21:19]

Jesus saw a fig tree. It did not have fruit. He cursed it. He did not do this because he was hungry or angry. It was a metaphor. In the same way a fig tree produced figs, so God wanted Israel to produce fruit. That is, he wanted Israel to serve and obey him. However, they did not do this. Therefore, they made themselves useless to God.

See: Curse; Fruit (Metaphor); Metaphor

Why did Jesus speak about a mountain?

[21:21]

Jesus spoke about a mountain to teach his disciples. This was a metaphor. He wanted to say they could do great things if they trusted in God, that is, Jesus wanted the disciples to pray with faith. They were not actually going to move a mountain. This was hyperbole. However, God did many miracles through these disciples after Jesus was made alive again.

See: Disciple; Metaphor; Miracle; Hyperbole; Pray (Prayer); Faith (Believe in)

21:23-32

Who were the elders?

[21:23]

The elders were the Jewish leaders who were older men.

See: Elder; Chief Priest

Why did the leaders want to know who gave Jesus permission to do the things he did?

[21:23]

The Jewish leaders asked Jesus who gave him permission to do the things he did. They did not think God gave him permission to do the things he did. They thought Satan gave him permission to do these things. Some scholars think the leaders really wanted to have Jesus say that God sent him. They thought that the Law of Moses said they could kill him if he did this. However, God sent Jesus.

See: Satan (The Devil); Law of Moses

Why did Jesus ask the leaders about the baptism of John?

[21:25]

Jesus asked the leaders about who gave John the Baptist permission to do the things he did. The people in Israel loved John the Baptist. They thought God sent him. John the Baptist said that Jesus was the messiah. The leaders were afraid of saying that God sent John because they would also have to say that God sent Jesus. However, the people would be angry with these leaders and reject them if they said that God did not send John.

See: Baptize (Baptism); Messiah (Christ)

Why did Jesus speak about two sons?

[21:28]

Jesus spoke about two sons. One son said no, but obeyed his father. The second son said yes to his father but did not obey him. This was a parable. He wanted the Jewish leaders to know that the people who sinned, but came to believe in him were like the first son. The Jewish leaders who said nice things to Jesus but did not believe in him were like the second son. The Jewish leaders rejected Jesus and rejected God who sent Jesus. The tax collectors and prostitutes believed in Jesus, therefore they obeyed God.

See: Parable; Tax (Tax Collector, Toll) ; Prostitute (Prostitution) ; Repent (Repentance); Will of God; Kingdom of God; Sin

21:33-46

Why did Jesus talk about a vineyard?

[21:33]

Jesus used a parable about a vineyard. He did this to talk about Israel. In the same way a farmer makes and protects a vineyard, so God made and protects the nation of Israel. God gave certain leaders permission to care for Israel. He sent prophets to Israel to help the Israelites obey God. However, they did not do what these prophets said to do. Finally, God sent Jesus. That is, he sent his son. Then the Jewish leaders had him killed.

See: Parable; Vine (Vineyard); Prophet; Son of God

Why did the owner of the vineyard send servants?

[21:34]

The owner of the vineyard sent his servants to get what they promised to the owner for using his land. They promised him a certain part of what they grew.

Why did the men beat the servants?

[21:35]

These men did not want to give the servant what they promised to give to the owner of the land. Therefore, they beat the servants. They wanted the owner to know they were not going to give him anything and that he should not send any more servants.

What was an inheritance?

[21:38]

See: Inherit (Inheritance, Heir)

From what scripture did Jesus quote?

[21:42]

See: Psalm 118:22-23

How would the kingdom of God be taken away from the Jewish leaders?

[21:43]

Jesus said the kingdom of God would be taken away from the Jewish leaders. He was rejecting them because they rejected him. They would not be a part of his kingdom. Jesus also said he would give it to another nation that produced fruit. That is, people who obey him and honor him will inherit the kingdom of God. This included Gentile people who obeyed and honored Jesus.

See: Kingdom of God; Fruit (Metaphor); Inherit (Inheritance, Heir); Gentile

Why did the Jewish leaders want to arrest Jesus?

[21:46]

The Jewish leaders wanted to arrest Jesus after they heard what he said. That is, they wanted to catch him so they could kill him. This is because they knew he was speaking about them. Jesus knew the Jewish leaders wanted to kill him.

Why were the Jewish leaders afraid of the crowd?

[21:46]

Matthew wrote that the Jewish leaders feared all the people there. Many people thought Jesus was a great man. However, Matthew wanted people to know that the Jewish leaders feared the people more than they feared God. They thought they were obeying God by killing Jesus. However, they were not obeying God.

Matthew 21:1

Bethphage

This is a village near Jerusalem.

Matthew 21:2

a donkey tied up

"a donkey that someone has tied up to a post or a tree"

colt

young male donkey

Matthew 21:4

Now

This word is used here to mark a pause in the story. Here Matthew explains that Jesus's actions fulfilled scripture.

all this happened to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet

"this happened so that Jesus would fulfill what God spoke through the prophet Zechariah"

Matthew 21:5

the daughter of Zion

"the people of Zion" or "the people who live in Zion"

Zion

This is another name for Jerusalem.

Matthew 21:7

cloaks

These were outer clothing or long coats.

Matthew 21:8

crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches off the trees and spread them in the road

These are ways to show honor to Jesus as he was entering Jerusalem.

Matthew 21:9

the son of David

"Son of David" is also a title for the Messiah, and the crowd was probably calling Jesus by this title.

in the name of the Lord

"in the power of the Lord" or "as the representative of the Lord"

Hosanna in the highest

"Praise God, who is in the highest heaven" or "Praise be to God"

Matthew 21:10

all the city was stirred

"many people from all over the city were excited"

Matthew 21:12

Jesus entered the temple

Jesus did not enter the actual temple. He entered the courtyard around the temple.

who bought and sold

Merchants were selling animals and other items that travelers bought to offer the proper sacrifices at the temple.

Matthew 21:13

He said to them

"Jesus said to those who were changing money and buying and selling things"

It is written

"The prophets wrote long ago" or "God said long ago"

My house

Here "My" refers to God and "house" refers to the temple.

a house of prayer

"a place where people pray"

a den of robbers

"like a place where robbers hide"

Matthew 21:14

lame

those who have an injured foot or leg that makes walking difficult

Matthew 21:15

Hosanna

This word means “save us” but can also mean “praise God!” See how you translated this in Matthew 21:9.

the Son of David

"Son of David" is also a title for the Messiah, and the children were probably calling Jesus by this title. See how you translated this in Matthew 21:9.

they became very angry

"they became very angry because people were praising him"

Matthew 21:16

Do you hear what they are saying?

"You should not allow them to say these things about you!"

But have you never read ... praise'?

"Yes, I hear them, but you should remember what you read in the scriptures ... praise.'"

Out of the mouths of little children and nursing infants you have prepared praise

“You prepared little children and nursing infants to give praise to God”

Matthew 21:18

Now

This word is used here to mark a pause in the story. Here Matthew explains that Jesus is hungry and that is why he stops at the fig tree.

Matthew 21:19

he ... found nothing on it except leaves

"he ... found only leaves on it"

withered

died and dried up

Matthew 21:20

How did the fig tree immediately wither away?

"We are astonished that the fig tree has dried up so quickly!"

Matthew 21:21

Truly I say to you

"I tell you the truth." This phrase adds emphasis to what Jesus says next.

if you have faith and do not doubt

"if you truly believe"

you will even say to this mountain, 'Be taken up and thrown into the sea,'

"you will even be able to tell this mountain to get up and throw itself into the sea,"

it will be done

"it will happen"

Matthew 21:23

had come into the temple

It is implied that Jesus did not enter the actual temple. He entered the courtyard around the temple.

these things

This refers to Jesus teaching and healing in the temple. It probably also refers to Jesus driving out the buyers and sellers the previous day.

Matthew 21:25

from where did it come?

"where did he get the authority to do that?"

If we say, 'From heaven,' he will say to us, 'Why then did you not believe him?'

"If we say that we believe John received his authority from heaven, then Jesus will ask us why we did not believe John."

From heaven

"from God in heaven"

Why then did you not believe him?

"Then you should have believed John the Baptist"

Matthew 21:26

But if we say, 'From men,'

"But if we say that we believe John received his authority from men,"

we fear the crowd

"we fear what the crowd would think or even do to us"

they all view John as a prophet

"they believe John is a prophet"

Matthew 21:28

But what do you think?

"Tell me what you think about what I am about to tell you."

Matthew 21:31

They said

"The chief priests and elders said"

Jesus said to them

"Jesus said to the chief priests and elders"

Truly I say to you

"I tell you the truth." This phrase adds emphasis to what Jesus says next.

the tax collectors and the prostitutes will enter the kingdom of God before you do

"when God establishes his rule on earth, he will agree to bless the tax collectors and prostitutes by ruling over them before he agrees to do that for you"

before you do

Possible meanings are 1) God will accept the tax collectors and prostitutes sooner than he will accept the Jewish religious leaders, or 2) God will accept the tax collectors and prostitutes instead of the Jewish religious leaders.

Matthew 21:32

John came to you

"John came to the people of Israel"

in the way of righteousness

"and told you the way God wants you to live"

Matthew 21:33

a hedge

"a wall" or "a fence"

dug a winepress in it

"dug a hole in the vineyard in which to press the grapes"

rented it out to vine growers

The owner still owned the vineyard, but he allowed the vine growers to take care of it. When the grapes became ripe, they were to give some of them to the owner and keep the rest.

Matthew 21:34

to collect his fruit

The landowner expected the vine growers pay him for allowing them to use the vineyard by giving him some of the fruit they had grown.

Matthew 21:35

his servants

"the landowner's servants"

Matthew 21:40

Now

The word "now" does not mean "at this moment," but it is used to draw attention to the important point that follows.

Matthew 21:41

They said to him

"The people said to Jesus."

He will violently destroy those wicked people

"He will bring those wicked people to a miserable end" or "He will make those evil people die in misery"

Matthew 21:42

Did you never read ... eyes'?

"Think about what you have read ... eyes.'"

The stone which the builders rejected has been made the cornerstone

Jesus is quoting from the Psalms. This is a metaphor that means the religious leaders, like builders, will reject Jesus, but God will make him the most important in his kingdom, like the cornerstone in a building.

has been made the cornerstone

"has become the cornerstone"

This was from the Lord

"The Lord has caused this great change"

it is marvelous in our eyes

"it is wonderful to see"

Matthew 21:43

I say to you

Here "you" is plural. Jesus was speaking to the religious leaders who had rejected him.

the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and will be given to a nation that produces its fruits

"God will take his kingdom away from you and will give it to a nation that produces the kingdom's fruits" or "God will reject you, and he will be king over people from other nations that produce the kingdom's fruits"

that produces its fruits

"that produces good results"

Matthew 21:44

Whoever falls on this stone will be broken to pieces

"This stone will break into pieces anyone who falls on it"

But anyone on whom it falls will be crushed

This means the Christ will have the final judgment and will destroy everyone who rebels against him.

Chapter 22

¹ Jesus spoke to them again in parables, saying, ² "The kingdom of heaven is like a certain king who prepared a marriage feast for his son. ³ He sent out his servants to call those who had been invited to come to the marriage feast, but they would not come.

⁴ Again the king sent other servants, saying, 'Tell them who are invited, "See, I have prepared my dinner. My oxen and fattened cattle have been killed, and all things are ready. Come to the marriage feast."'

⁵ But they paid no attention and went away, one to his farm, another to his business. ⁶ The others seized the king's servants, treated them shamefully, and killed them. ⁷ The king was angry, and he sent his soldiers and they destroyed those murderers and burned their city.

⁸ Then he said to his servants, 'The wedding is ready, but those who were invited were not worthy. ⁹ Therefore go to the highway crossings and invite as many people to the marriage feast as you can find.' ¹⁰ The servants went out to the highways and gathered together all the people they found, both bad and good. So the wedding hall was filled with guests.

¹¹ But when the king came in to look at the guests, he saw a man there who was not wearing wedding clothes. ¹² The king said to him, 'Friend, how did you come in here without wedding clothes?' But the man was speechless.

¹³ Then the king said to the servants, 'Bind this man hand and foot, and throw him out into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and the grinding of teeth.' ¹⁴ For many people are called, but few are chosen."

¹⁵ Then the Pharisees went and planned how they might entrap Jesus in his own talk. ¹⁶ Then they sent to him their disciples, together with the Herodians. They said to Jesus, "Teacher, we know that you are truthful, and that you teach God's way in truth. You care for no one's opinion, and you do not show partiality between people. ¹⁷ So tell us, what do you think? Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not?"

¹⁸ But Jesus understood their wickedness and said, "Why are you testing me, you hypocrites? ¹⁹ Show me the coin for the tax." Then they brought a denarius to him.

²⁰ Jesus said to them, "Whose image and name are these?"

²¹ They said to him, "Caesar's."

Then Jesus said to them, "Then give to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's."

²² When they heard it, they marveled. Then they left him and went away.

²³ On that day some Sadducees, who say there is no resurrection, came to him. They asked him, ²⁴ saying, "Teacher, Moses said, 'If a man dies, having no children, his brother must marry his wife and raise children for his brother.'

²⁵ There were seven brothers. The first married and then died. Having left no children, he left his wife to his brother. ²⁶ Then the second brother did the same thing, then the third, all the way to the seventh brother. ²⁷ After them all, the woman died. ²⁸ Now in the resurrection, whose wife will she be of the seven brothers? For they all had married her."

²⁹ But Jesus answered and said to them, "You are mistaken because you do not know the scriptures or the power of God. ³⁰ For in the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage. Instead, they are like angels in heaven.

³¹ But concerning the resurrection of the dead, have you not read what was spoken to you by God, saying, ³² 'I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob'? God is not the God of the dead, but of the living." ³³ When the crowds heard this, they were astonished at his teaching.

³⁴ But when the Pharisees heard that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, they gathered themselves together. ³⁵ One of them, an expert in the law, asked him a question, testing him— ³⁶ "Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the law?"

³⁷ Jesus said to him, "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.' ³⁸ This is the great and first commandment.

³⁹ And a second commandment is like it—'Love your neighbor as yourself.' ⁴⁰ On these two commandments depend the whole law and the prophets."

⁴¹ Now while the Pharisees were still gathered together, Jesus asked them a question. ⁴² He said, "What do you think about the Christ? Whose son is he?"

They said to him, "The son of David."

⁴³ Jesus said to them, "How then does David in the Spirit call him Lord, saying,

⁴⁴ 'The Lord said to my Lord,

"Sit at my right hand,

until I make your enemies your footstool"'?

⁴⁵ If David then calls the Christ 'Lord,' how is he David's son?" ⁴⁶ No one was able to answer him a word, and no man dared ask him any more questions from that day on.

Matthew 22

22:1-14

What was a parable?

[22:1]

See: Parable

Why did Jesus want this man to invite certain types of people to a dinner or a banquet?

[22:3]

Jesus wanted this man to invite certain types of people to a feast because Jesus wanted God to reward them in the kingdom of heaven. Jesus sent his servants to call those who had been invited to this feast. He was talking about the Jews. He wanted the Jews to believe in him, but they rejected him. When he spoke about the king, Jesus was speaking about himself. He also wanted to say that the Jews did evil things to the apostles. When he spoke about those who were not invited, he was speaking about the Gentiles. The Gentiles believed in Jesus and would be rewarded. When Jesus spoke about the man not wearing wedding clothes, he was speaking about someone who wanted to be rewarded by God, but who rejected Jesus. Jesus will punish this man.

See: Wedding; Reward; Kingdom of God; Apostle; Gentile; Punish (Punishment)

What is the outer darkness?

[22:13]

Jesus spoke about the outer darkness. He was speaking about hell. This is a place where people will be punished for their sins.

See: Hell; Punish (Punishment); Sin

What did it mean that many people are called but few are chosen?

[22:14]

Jesus said that many people were called but few people were chosen. He wanted everyone to believe in him, but only a few people believed in him. Everyone could believe in him and be rewarded, but most people reject him.

See: Elect (Election); Call (Calling); Reward; Kingdom of God

22:15-22

What was a pharisee?

[22:15]

See: Pharisees

How did the Jewish leaders try to trap Jesus?

[22:15]

The Jewish leaders tried to trap Jesus. That is, they tried to get Jesus to say something that would cause someone to be angry with him. They wanted Jesus to speak against the leader of the Roman Empire. They did this by asking Jesus about paying taxes to the ruler of the Roman Empire. The Jewish leaders asked Jesus about paying taxes. The Romans made the Jews pay taxes to them every year. The Jews had to pay the Romans to rule them. The Jews did not like having to pay this tax. The Jews would have been angry if Jesus said that the Jews should pay this tax to the Romans. The Romans would be angry if Jesus said that the Jews should not pay this tax to the Romans.

See: Tax (Tax Collector, Toll); Rome (Roman Empire, Caesar)

What was a Herodian?

[22:16]

A Herodian was someone who served King Herod. He was the leader of the Jews and served the Romans.

See: King Herod

What was a hypocrite?

[22:18]

A hypocrite was a person who said one thing, but they did not believe it. Or they said something and did not do it.

See: Hypocrisy (Hypocirte)

What was a denarius?

[22:19]

See: Denarius

What were the things that belonged to Caesar?

[22:21]

The things that belonged to Caesar were all things that allowed him to govern Rome. This included taxes that must be paid to his government. The coins, at that time, had the face of Caesar imprinted on them.

See: Rome (Roman Empire, Caesar)

What were the things that belonged to God?

[22:21]

Scholars think Jesus was speaking about people’s hearts when he spoke about the things that belonged to God. That is, a person should live according to faith. They should love, worship, and obey God. God is the creator of everything. He is rules everything. Therefore, all things belong to God.

See: Heart (Metaphor); Faith (Believe in)

22:23-33

What did the Sadducees think happened when people died?

[22:23]

The Sadducees did not think that people would be resurrected. That is, they did not think people would go to heaven or hell when they died. They did not believe in many things taught in the Bible.

See: Sadducees; Resurrect (Resurrection) ; Heaven; Hell

Why did the Sadducees ask Jesus this question?

[22:28]

The Sadducees tried to trap Jesus by asking this question. They wanted Jesus to say something that would make people angry. They thought their question proved that no one would be resurrected.

See: Law of Moses; Sadducees; Inherit (Inheritance, Heir); Resurrect (Resurrection)

Why did Jesus say to the Sadducees, “you do not know the scriptures or the power of God”?

[22:29]

When Jesus told the Sadducees they did not “know the scriptures or the power of God” he meant they had not understood the scriptures correctly. That is, they did not understand what the Bible taught about resurrection. They also did not understand God’s power to raise a person from the dead and give them a new body.

See: Sadducees; Heaven; Worship; Angel; Resurrect (Resurrection)

Why did Jesus speak about Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob?

[22:32]

See: Exodus 3:6

22:34-46

What was meant by the words, “on these two commandments depend the whole law and the prophets”?

[22:40]

Jesus told the lawyer that the two greatest commandments were to love God and to love other people. That is, if a person loved God and people the way the Bible told them to, then they obeyed all of the Law of Moses.

See: Scribe; Command (Commandment); Law of Moses

What are the Law and the prophets?

[22:40]

See: Old Testament (Law and Prophets)

What was meant by the words, “how then does David in the spirit call him Lord”?

[22:43]

Scholars think that Jesus wanted his listeners to know that the Holy Spirit told David what to say when he wrote Psalm 110:1.

See: Holy Spirit

What did David mean with the words, “the Lord said to my Lord”?

[22:44]

Scholars think that when David said, “the Lord said to my Lord” he was speaking about the messiah whom God sent. In other words, David said, “God (Yahweh) said to my Lord (Messiah).” David said that Jesus is God. God will also make the messiah’s enemies his footstool. That is, one day God will defeat all of the messiah’s enemies.

See: Lord; Yahweh (I am); Messiah (Christ); Trinity; Jesus is God

Why did people stop asking Jesus questions?

[22:46]

Matthew wrote that people stopped asking Jesus questions. This was because they knew they could not trap Jesus by asking him questions because of the way Jesus answered them.

Matthew 22:1

to them

"to the people"

Matthew 22:3

those who had been invited

"the people the king had invited"

Matthew 22:4

servants, saying, 'Tell them who are invited, "See ... feast."'

"servants, ordering them to tell those whom he invited, 'See ... feast.'"

See

"Look" or "Listen" or "Pay attention to what I am about to tell you"

My oxen and fattened cattle have been killed

"My servants have killed and cooked my oxen and my fattened cattle"

Matthew 22:8

those who were invited

"those whom I invited"

Matthew 22:9

the highway crossings

"where the main roads of the city cross." The king is sending the servants to the place where they are most likely to find people.

Matthew 22:10

both bad and good

"both the good people and the bad people"

So the wedding hall was filled with guests

"So the guests filled the wedding hall"

Matthew 22:12

how did you come in here without wedding clothes?

"you are not wearing proper clothes for a wedding. You should not be here."

Matthew 22:13

Bind this man hand and foot

"Tie him up so that he cannot move his hands or feet"

the outer darkness

"the dark place away from God"

weeping and the grinding of teeth

"weeping and expressing their extreme suffering"

Matthew 22:14

For many people are called, but few are chosen

"For God invites many people, but he only chooses a few"

Matthew 22:15

how they might entrap Jesus in his own talk

"how they could cause Jesus to say something wrong so they could arrest him"

Matthew 22:16

Herodians

These were officials and followers of the Jewish king Herod. He was friends with Roman authorities.

you do not show partiality between people

"you do not show special honor to anyone" or "you do not consider anyone more important than anyone else"

Matthew 22:17

to pay taxes to Caesar

"to pay the taxes that Caesar requires"

Matthew 22:18

Why are you testing me, you hypocrites?

"Do not test me, you hypocrites!" or "I know that you hypocrites are only trying to test me!"

Matthew 22:19

denarius

This was a Roman coin worth one day's wages.

Matthew 22:20

to them

Here "them" refers to the Herodians and the disciples of the Pharisees.

Whose image and name are these?

"Tell me whose image and name you see on this coin."

Matthew 22:21

Caesar's

"The coin has Caesar's image and name on it"

things that are Caesar's

"things that belong to Caesar"

things that are God's

"things that belong to God"

Matthew 22:24

Teacher, Moses said, 'If a man dies ... brother.'

"Teacher, Moses said that if a man dies ...brother."

his brother ... his wife ... his brother

Here "his" refers to the dead man.

Matthew 22:26

the second ... the third ... the seventh

"the next oldest ... the next oldest ... the youngest" or "his oldest younger brother ... that brother's oldest younger brother ... the youngest"

Matthew 22:27

After them all

"After every brother had died"

Matthew 22:28

Now

Here the Sadducees shift from the story about the seven brothers to their actual question.

in the resurrection

"when dead people come back to life"

Matthew 22:29

You are mistaken

"You are mistaken about the resurrection"

the power of God

"what God is able to do"

Matthew 22:30

in the resurrection

"when dead people rise back to life"

they neither marry

"people will not marry"

nor are given in marriage

"nor will people give their children in marriage"

Matthew 22:31

have you not read

"you have read"

what was spoken to you by God

"what God spoke to you"

Matthew 22:32

'I am the God of ... Jacob'

"that he is the God of ... Jacob"

of the dead, but of the living

"of dead people, but he is the God of living people"

Matthew 22:37

with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind

These three phrases are used together to mean “completely” or “earnestly.” Here “heart” and “soul” refer to a person’s inner being.

Matthew 22:38

the great and first commandment

Here "great" and "first" mean the same thing. They emphasize that this is the most important commandment.

Matthew 22:39

your neighbor

Here "neighbor" means more than just those who live nearby. Jesus means a person must love all people.

Matthew 22:40

On these two commandments depend the whole law and the prophets

"Everything that Moses and the prophets wrote in the scriptures is based on these two commandments"

Matthew 22:42

son ... son of David

In both of these "son" means "descendant."

Matthew 22:43

How then does David in the Spirit call him Lord

"Then, tell me why David in the Spirit calls him Lord"

David in the Spirit

"David, whom the Holy Spirit is inspiring." This means the Holy Spirit is influencing what David says.

call him

Here "him" refers to the Christ, who is also the descendant of David.

Matthew 22:44

The Lord said

Here "Lord" refers to God the Father.

to my Lord

Here "Lord" refers to the Christ. Also, "my" refers to David. This means the Christ is superior to David.

Sit at my right hand

"Sit in the place of honor beside me"

until I make your enemies your footstool

"until I conquer your enemies" or "until I make your enemies bow down before you"

Matthew 22:45

If David then calls the Christ

David referred to Jesus as "Lord" because Jesus was not only a descendant of David, but he was also superior to him.

Matthew 22:46

to answer him a word

"to answer him anything" or "to answer him"

Chapter 23

¹ Then Jesus spoke to the crowds and to his disciples. ² He said, "The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat. ³ Therefore whatever they command you to do, do these things and observe them. But do not imitate their deeds, for they say things but then do not do them.

⁴ Yes, they bind heavy burdens that are difficult to carry, and then they put them on people's shoulders. But they themselves will not move a finger to carry them. ⁵ They do all their deeds to be seen by people. For they make their phylacteries wide, and they enlarge the edges of their garments.

⁶ They love the places of honor at feasts and the chief seats in the synagogues, ⁷ and special greetings in the marketplaces, and to be called 'Rabbi' by people.

⁸ But you must not be called 'Rabbi,' for you have only one teacher, and all of you are brothers. ⁹ And call no man on earth your father, for you have only one Father, and he is in heaven. ¹⁰ Neither must you be called 'teacher,' for you have only one teacher, the Christ.

¹¹ But he who is greatest among you will be your servant. ¹² Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.

¹³ "But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! You shut the kingdom of heaven against people. For you do not enter it yourselves, and neither do you allow those about to enter to do so. ¹⁴ ¹ ¹⁵ Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you go over sea and land to make one convert, and when he has become one, you make him twice as much a son of hell as you.

¹⁶ "Woe to you, you blind guides, you who say, 'Whoever swears by the temple, it is nothing. But whoever swears by the gold of the temple, he is bound to his oath.' ¹⁷ You blind fools! Which is greater, the gold or the temple that makes the gold holy?

¹⁸ And, 'Whoever swears by the altar, it is nothing. But whoever swears by the gift that is on it, he is bound to his oath.' ¹⁹ You blind people! Which is greater, the gift or the altar that makes the gift holy?

²⁰ Therefore, he who swears by the altar swears by it and by everything on it. ²¹ The one who swears by the temple swears by it and by the one who lives in it. ²² And the one who swears by heaven swears by the throne of God and by him who sits on it.

²³ "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cumin, but you have left undone the weightier matters of the law—justice and mercy and faithfulness. But these you ought to have done and not to have left the other undone. ²⁴ You blind guides, you who strain out a gnat but swallow a camel!

²⁵ "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you clean the outside of the cup and of the plate, but inside they are full of robbery and self-indulgence. ²⁶ You blind Pharisee! Clean first the inside of the cup and of the plate, so that the outside may become clean also.

²⁷ "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs, which on the outside look beautiful, but on the inside are full of dead men's bones and everything unclean. ²⁸ In the same way, you also outwardly appear righteous to men, but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness.

²⁹ "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you build the tombs of the prophets and decorate the tombs of the righteous. ³⁰ You say, 'If we had lived in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partners with them in shedding the blood of the prophets.' ³¹ Therefore you testify against yourselves that you are sons of those who murdered the prophets.

³² You also fill up the measure of your fathers. ³³ You serpents, you offspring of vipers, how will you escape the judgment of hell?

³⁴ Therefore, see, I am sending you prophets and wise men and scribes. Some of them you will kill and crucify, and some you will whip in your synagogues and chase from city to city. ³⁵ The result is that upon you will come all the righteous blood that has been shed on the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel, to the blood of Zechariah son of Berekiah, whom you murdered between the sanctuary and the altar. ³⁶ Truly I say to you, all these things will come upon this generation.

³⁷ "Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those who are sent to you! How often did I long to gather your children together, just as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing! ³⁸ See, your house is left to you desolate. ³⁹ For I say to you, you will not see me from now on until you say, 'Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.'"

¹The best ancient copies do not have verse 14 (some copies add the verse after verse 12). Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you devour widows' houses, while you make a show of long prayers. You will therefore receive greater condemnation .

Matthew 23

23:1-12

How did the scribes and pharisees sit in Moses’s seat?

[23:2]

Jesus said that the Scribes and Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. This was a metaphor. He wanted to say they they thought God gave them permission to do the things that Moses did. When Moses told people to do something in the Law of Moses, it was as if God told them to do it. The Scribes and Pharisees thought this was true when they taught people.

See: Scribe; Pharisees; Metaphor; Law of Moses

Why should people not imitate the deeds of the Scribes and Pharisees?

[23:3]

Jesus said that the people should not imitate the deeds of the Scribes and Pharisees. That is, they should not do the same types of things the Scribes and Pharisees did. This is because the Scribes and Pharisees did not do the things they taught. They taught good things, but they did not do these good things.

See: Scribe; Pharisees

What were phylacteries?

[23:5]

Phylacteries were leather bags or boxes in which pieces of parchment with portions of the Law of Moses written on them were placed. The Jewish leaders wore these on the forearms or fastened in some way onto their foreheads.

See: Deuteronomy 6:8, 11:18

Advice to translators: Parchment were pieces of leather and someone could write on them.

What did it mean for the Pharisees to “enlarge the edges of their garments”?

[23:5]

The Jews wore clothes with tassles on the edges or corners. These were to remind the people of the Law of Moses. The Pharisees purposefully wore the tassels on the edges of their garments extra long, so people would see them and want to honor them. They did not do this to honor God.

See: Law of Moses; Pharisees

See: Numbers 15:38-39

Why did Jesus not want people to be called “rabbi”?

[23:8]

Some scholars think Jesus did not want people to want to be called “rabbi” because people who did this thought they were greater than other people. Fewer scholars think Jesus was saying that there was truly only one “rabbi” or teacher God sent to men, and that was Jesus.

See: Rabbi

Why did Jesus not want people to be called “father”?

[23:9]

Jesus did not want people to call someone “father” in this way because there is only one who Jesus believed was the father, and that is God. God is the only father in this way and is the only one to be honored as father.

See: God the Father

What did Jesus want people to do?

[23:11, 23:12]

Jesus wanted people to serve one another. In the kingdom of God, those who are considered the greatest are those who serve others. They serve others because this honors God. If they do not do this, then God will humble them in some way.

See: Kingdom of God

23:13-22

What was a woe?

[23:13]

See: Woe

What was a hypocrite?

[23:13]

A hypocrite was someone who said one thing and did something different.

See: Hypocrisy (Hypocirte)

How do the scribes and Pharisees shut the kingdom of heaven?

[23:13]

Jesus said that the Scribes and Pharisees shut the kingdom of heaven. Some scholars think the Pharisees did this by teaching false things about God. They did not want people to enter into the kingdom of heaven. They could not help people to be at peace with God because they were not at peace with God.

See: Scribe; Pharisees; Kingdom of God

What did Matthew write in verse 14?

[23:14]

Some ancient copies of the Greek New Testament include a verse 14 which says, “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you devour widows’ houses, while you make a show of long prayers. You will therefore receive greater condemnation. '' Other ancient copies of the Greek New Testament put these words after verse 12. More and older copies of Greek New Testament do not contain these words. Scholars do not think Matthew wrote these words.

See: Differences in the Ancient Copies of the Bible

What did Jesus mean by telling the Pharisees, “you go over sea and land to make one convert”?

[23:15]

When Jesus said the Scribes and Pharisees went over sea and land to make one convert he was using a figure of speech. That is, they worked very hard to get someone to worship God in the way they thought was right. However, when they do this, they taught them the wrong things. This made it harder for them to know the right things. People would not have peace with God even though the Pharisees promised them peace with God.

See: Scribe; Pharisees

What was a blind guide?

[23:16]

Jesus spoke about a blind guide. This was a metaphor. A guide was someone who helped people to know where to go or what to do. When he said they were blind, he wanted to say that they did not understand spiritual things.

See: Blind (Metaphor)

What did it mean for someone to “swear”?

[23:16]

he Pharisees were wrong with their teaching about swearing an oath. Jesus taught them that is was wrong to break any oath.

See: Swear (Oath)

Why did Jesus talk about a cup and a plate?

[23:25, 23:26]

When Jesus taught about the cup and the plate, he used a metaphor. Just as a person cleaned the outside of a cup, so Jesus was telling the Jewish leaders that they were only concerned about how they looked on the outside. That is, they were concerned with what people thought of them. Jesus taught the Jewish leaders that they should be more concerned about the things they thought and wanted to do. If they did that, they would do the right things.

See: Metaphor; Clean and Unclean

How were the Jewish leaders like whitewashed tombs?

[23:27]

When Jesus said the Jewish leaders were like whitewashed tombs he used a metaphor. Some scholars think Jesus was telling the Pharisees that they tried to make themselves look good on the outside, but on the inside was nothing but unclean thoughts and lives.

See: Tomb; Metaphor; Clean and Unclean

23:29-39

Why did Jesus talk about the prophets?

[23:29]

Jesus rebuked the Jewish leaders. These leaders thought they honored the prophets by decorating their tombs. They thought they would not have killed the prophets if they were alive when the prophets were alive. However, Jesus lived among the Pharisees and he was God’s greatest prophet. The Pharisees wanted to kill Jesus. They would be punished and live forever in hell because they rejected Jesus.

See: Prophet; Pharisees; Punish (Punishment); Hell

Who did Jesus send?

[23:34]

Jesus talked about sending certain people. These were the prophets and apostles. He sent them to Israel to declare the truth about Jesus. He prophesied that the Jewish leaders would also reject the people Jesus sent. All people who followed the Jewish leaders will also be punished.

See: Prophet; Apostle; Prophecy (Prophesy) ; Synagogue; Crucify (Crucifixion); Punish (Punishment)

Who were Abel and Zechariah?

[23:35]

Abel and Zechariah were people who were killed because they obeyed God. In the Old Testament, Abel was the first person murdered, and Zechariah was the last person murdered.

See: Old Testament (Law and Prophets)

What did Jesus say to Jerusalem?

[23:37]

Jesus spoke to Jerusalem. He was speaking to the Jews. God sent prophets to the Jews so they would honor and obey God. However, they did not want to do these things. Because of this, God will punish the Jews. They will not see Jesus until he returns.

See: Psalm 118:26

See: Jesus' Return to Earth; Prophet; Punish (Punishment)

Matthew 23:2

sit in Moses' seat

"have authority as Moses had" or "have authority to say what the law of Moses means"

Matthew 23:3

whatever ... do these things and observe them

"all the things ... do them and observe them"

Matthew 23:4

they bind heavy burdens that are difficult to carry, and then they put them on people's shoulders. But they themselves will not move a finger to carry them

"they make you obey many rules that are difficult to follow. But they do nothing at all to help you follow the rules"

Matthew 23:5

They do all their deeds to be seen by people

"They do all their deeds so that people can see what they do"

For they make their phylacteries wide, and they enlarge the edges of their garments

Both of these are things the Pharisees do to appear as if they honor God more than other people.

phylacteries

small leather boxes containing paper with scripture written on it

they enlarge the edges of their garments

The Pharisees made the tassels on the bottom of their robes especially long to show their devotion to God.

Matthew 23:6

places of honor ... chief seats

Both of these are the places where the most important people sit.

Matthew 23:7

to be called 'Rabbi' by people.

"for people to call them 'Rabbi.'"

Matthew 23:8

But you must not be called

"But you must not let anyone call you"

you

All occurrences of "you" are plural and refer to all of Jesus's followers.

all of you are brothers

Here "brothers" means "fellow believers."

Matthew 23:9

call no man on earth your father

"do not call any man on earth your father" or "do not say that any man on earth is your father"

you have only one Father

This refers to God the Father. It is best to translate “Father” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human father.

Matthew 23:10

Neither must you be called

"Also, do not let anyone call you"

you have only one teacher, the Christ

"I, the Christ, am your only teacher"

Matthew 23:11

he who is greatest among you

"the person who is most important among you"

among you

Here "you" is plural and refers to Jesus's followers.

Matthew 23:12

will be humbled

"God will humble"

will be exalted

"God will make important" or "God will honor"

Matthew 23:13

But woe to you

"How terrible it will be for you!" See how you translated this in Matthew 11:21.

You shut the kingdom of heaven against people ... you do not enter it ... neither do you allow those about to enter to do so

"You make it impossible for people to enter the kingdom of heaven ... you do not enter it ... neither do you allow those about to enter to do so" or "You prevent people from accepting God, who lives in heaven, as king ... you do not accept him as king ... and you make it impossible for those about to accept him as king to do so"

Matthew 23:15

you go over sea and land

"you travel great distances"

to make one convert

"to make one person accept your religion"

son of hell

"person who belongs in hell" or "person who should go to hell"

Matthew 23:16

by the temple, it is nothing

"by the temple does not have to keep his oath"

is bound to his oath

"must do what he promised to do"

Matthew 23:17

blind fools

The Jewish leaders were spiritually blind. Although they thought of themselves as teachers, they were unable to understand God's truth.

Which is greater, the gold or the temple that makes the gold holy?

"The temple that has dedicated the gold to God is more important than the gold!"

the temple that makes the gold holy

"the temple that makes the gold belong to God alone"

Matthew 23:18

it is nothing

"he does not have to do what he has sworn to do" or "he does not have to keep his oath"

the gift

This is an animal or grain that a person would bring to God by putting it on God's altar.

is bound to his oath

"must do what he promised to do"

Matthew 23:19

Which is greater, the gift or the altar that makes the gift holy?

"The altar that makes the gift holy is greater than the gift!"

the altar that makes the gift holy

"the altar that makes the gift special to God"

Matthew 23:21

the one who lives in it

The one who lives in the temple is God the Father. It is best to translate “Father” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human father.

Matthew 23:22

him who sits on it

The one who sits on the throne is God the Father. It is best to translate “Father” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human father.

Matthew 23:23

Woe to you ... hypocrites!

"How terrible it will be for you ... hypocrites!"

mint and dill and cumin

These are various leaves and seeds people used to make food taste good.

But these you ought to have done

"You ought to have obeyed these more important laws"

and not to have left the other undone

"and to make sure the other is done" or "and to make sure to do the other"

Matthew 23:24

you who strain out a gnat but swallow a camel

"you are as foolish as a person who strains out a small flying insect that falls into his drink but swallows a camel"

strain out a gnat

This means to pour a liquid through a cloth to remove a gnat from a drink.

Matthew 23:25

Woe to you ... hypocrites!

"How terrible it will be for you ... hypocrites!"

For you clean the outside of the cup and of the plate, but inside they are full of robbery and self-indulgence

The scribes and Pharisees appear pure on the outside to others, but on the inside they are wicked.

they are full of robbery and self-indulgence

"they take what belongs to others, and they do almost everything to benefit themselves"

Matthew 23:26

You blind Pharisee

The Pharisees were spiritually blind. Although they thought of themselves as teachers, they were unable to understand God's truth.

Clean first the inside of the cup and of the plate, so that the outside may become clean also

If they would become pure in their inner being, then the result is that they would be pure on the outside as well.

Matthew 23:27

you are like whitewashed tombs ... unclean

The scribes and Pharisees may appear to be pure on the outside, but they are wicked on the inside.

whitewashed tombs

"tombs that someone has painted white." The Jews would paint tombs white so that people would easily see them and avoid touching them. Touching a tomb would make a person ceremonially unclean.

Matthew 23:29

of the righteous

"of the righteous people"

Matthew 23:30

in the days of our fathers

"during the time of our forefathers"

we would not have been partners with them

"we would not have joined with them"

shedding the blood of

"killing" or "murdering"

Matthew 23:31

sons of those who murdered the prophets

"just like those who murdered the prophets."

Matthew 23:32

You also fill up the measure of your fathers

"You also finish the sins your ancestors began"

Matthew 23:33

You serpents, you offspring of vipers

"You who are as evil and dangerous as poisonous snakes"

offspring of vipers

Here "offspring" means "having the characteristic of."

how will you escape the judgment of hell?

"there is no way for you to escape the judgment of hell!"

Matthew 23:34

I am sending you prophets and wise men and scribes

"I will send prophets, wise men, and scribes to you"

chase from city to city

"chase from city to city and persecute them" or "persecute them in city after city"

Matthew 23:35

upon you will come all the righteous blood that has been shed on the earth

"God will punish you for the murders of all the righteous people

Abel ... Zechariah

Abel was the first righteous victim of murder, and Zechariah, who was murdered by Jews in the temple, was probably thought to be the last. These two men represent all the righteous people who have been murdered.

Zechariah

This Zechariah is unknown. He was not the father of John the Baptist.

whom you murdered

Jesus does not mean the people to whom he is speaking actually murdered Zechariah. He means their ancestors did.

Matthew 23:36

Truly I say to you

"I tell you the truth." This adds emphasis to what Jesus says next.

Matthew 23:37

Jerusalem, Jerusalem

Jesus speaks to the people of Jerusalem as though they were the city itself.

those who are sent to you

"those whom God sends to you"

your children

"your people" or "your inhabitants"

just as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings

This emphasizes Jesus's love for the people and how he wanted to take care of them.

hen

a female chicken. You can translate with any bird that protects her children under her wing.

Matthew 23:38

your house is left to you desolate

"God will leave your house, and it will be empty"

your house

Possible meanings are 1) "the city of Jerusalem" or 2) "the temple."

Matthew 23:39

I say to you

This adds emphasis to what Jesus says next.

Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord

"He who comes in the power of the Lord is blessed" or "He who comes as the representative of the Lord will be blessed"

Chapter 24

¹ Jesus went out from the temple and was going on his way. His disciples came to him to point out to him the buildings of the temple. ² But he answered and said to them, "Do you not see all these things? Truly I say to you, not one stone will be left on another that will not be torn down."

³ As he sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately and said, "Tell us, when will these things happen? What will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?"

⁴ Jesus answered and said to them, "Be careful that no one leads you astray. ⁵ For many will come in my name. They will say, 'I am the Christ,' and will lead many astray.

⁶ You will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled, for these things must happen; but the end is not yet. ⁷ For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. ⁸ But all these things are only the beginning of birth pains.

⁹ Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you. You will be hated by all the nations for my name's sake. ¹⁰ Then many will stumble, and betray one another and hate one another. ¹¹ Many false prophets will rise up and lead many astray.

¹² Because lawlessness will increase, the love of many will grow cold. ¹³ But the one who endures to the end will be saved. ¹⁴ This good news of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all the nations. Then the end will come.

¹⁵ "Therefore, when you see the abomination of desolation, which was spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place" (let the reader understand), ¹⁶ "let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains, ¹⁷ let him who is on the housetop not go down to take anything out of his house, ¹⁸ and let him who is in the field not return to take his cloak.

¹⁹ But woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing infants in those days! ²⁰ Pray that your flight will not occur in the winter or on a Sabbath. ²¹ For there will be great tribulation, such as has not been from the beginning of the world until now, no, nor ever will be again. ²² Unless those days had been shortened, no flesh would be saved. But for the sake of the elect those days will be shortened.

²³ Then if anyone says to you, 'Look, here is the Christ!' or 'There is the Christ!' do not believe it. ²⁴ For false Christs and false prophets will arise and show great signs and wonders, so as to lead astray, if possible, even the elect. ²⁵ See, I have told you ahead of time.

²⁶ Therefore, if they say to you, 'Look, he is in the wilderness,' do not go out to the wilderness. Or, 'See, he is in the inner rooms,' do not believe it. ²⁷ For as the lightning shines out from the east and flashes all the way to the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. ²⁸ Wherever a dead animal is, there the vultures will gather.

²⁹ "But immediately after the tribulation of those days

the sun will be darkened,

the moon will not give its light,

the stars will fall from the sky,

and the powers of the heavens will be shaken.

³⁰ Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and all the tribes of the earth will mourn. They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky with power and great glory. ³¹ He will send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they will gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of the sky to the other.

³² "Learn a lesson from the fig tree. As soon as the branch becomes tender and puts out its leaves, you know that summer is near. ³³ So also, when you see all these things, you should know that he is near, at the very gates.

³⁴ Truly I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all of these things will have happened. ³⁵ Heaven and the earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.

³⁶ But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.

³⁷ As the days of Noah were, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. ³⁸ For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage until the day that Noah entered the ark, ³⁹ and they knew nothing until the flood came and took them all away—so will be the coming of the Son of Man.

⁴⁰ Then two men will be in a field—one will be taken, and one will be left. ⁴¹ Two women will be grinding with a mill—one will be taken, and one will be left. ⁴² Therefore be on your guard, for you do not know on what day your Lord will come.

⁴³ But know this, that if the master of the house had known in what time of night the thief was coming, he would have been on guard and would not have allowed his house to be broken into. ⁴⁴ Therefore you must also be ready, for the Son of Man will come at an hour that you do not expect.

⁴⁵ "So who is the faithful and wise servant whom his master has set over his household in order to give them their food at the right time? ⁴⁶ Blessed is that servant whom his master will find doing that when he comes. ⁴⁷ Truly I say to you that the master will set him over all his possessions.

⁴⁸ But if an evil servant says in his heart, 'My master has been delayed,' ⁴⁹ and begins to beat his fellow servants, and eats and drinks with drunkards, ⁵⁰ then the master of that servant will come on a day that the servant does not expect and at an hour that he does not know. ⁵¹ His master will cut him in pieces and assign him a place with the hypocrites, where there will be weeping and grinding of teeth.

Matthew 24

24:1-14

What did Jesus say about the temple buildings?

[24:1]

The disciples were amazed by the buildings that made the temple in Jerusalem. However, Jesus prophesied that the temple would be destroyed. The destruction of the temple happened about 40 years after Jesus returned to heaven. However, it was not completely destroyed at that time. There is one wall that still remains from the temple in Jerusalem.

See: Disciple; Temple; Prophecy (Prophesy) ; Heaven

See Map: Jerusalem; Mount of Olives

What was a sign?

[24:3]

See: Sign

What was meant by the words, “the end of the age”?

[24:3]

Scholars have different ideas about the end of the age.

The end of the age took place about 40 years after Jesus died when the Romans destroyed Jerusalem.
The destruction of Jerusalem began the end of the age and it will end in the future.
Jesus spoke about actual events that will occur.

See: Last Days

What did Jesus teach about the signs of the “end of the age”?

[24:4}

Jesus told his disciples about things that would happen at the end of the age. However, the disciples did not know when all these things were going to happen. Jesus did talk about certain things that must happen before he returns to the earth.

There will be many false Christs. That is, people who say they are messiah, but are false teachers.
There will be wars and rumors of wars. That is, people will worry about wars and there will be many wars.
There will be many earthquakes and famines. Jesus said these are “birth pains.” This was a metaphor to say that difficult things that will happen are just the beginning of the difficult things to come.
People who worship Jesus will be persecuted.
Some people will make it so that certain Christians they know will be persecuted.
There will be many false prophets. They will teach people the wrong things and people will obey them.
People will do many evil things and because of this people will stop loving one another.

See: Last Days; Disciple; Jesus' Return to Earth; Messiah (Christ); Metaphor; Persecute (Persecution) ; Gospel; False Prophet; Worship

How are these things like the pain of having a child?

[24:8]

Jesus said that these things are like the pains of having a child. This was a metaphor. When a mother brings a child into the world, it hurts. However, something new is made. Jesus was warning the disciples that there would be difficult and painful things in the future. Those things would happen before Jesus returns.

See: Metaphor; Disciple; Jesus' Return to Earth; Persecute (Persecution)

What did Jesus mean when he said, “for my name’s sake”?

[24:9]

When Jesus said, “for my name’s sake” he meant that people were going to persecute the disciples and even kill them because they were loyal to him, and honored him as the messiah.

See: Name; Disciple; Persecute (Persecution) ; Messiah (Christ)

How will the person who “endures to the end” be saved?

[24:13]

Jesus said that the person who endures to the end when persecuted will be saved. Scholars think Jesus was talking about different things when he said these words.

Some scholars think Jesus was talking about a person who remains faithful, even when there is persecution. That is, Jesus will ultimately save them from persecution on earth by taking them to heaven.
Other scholars think there will be people who say they are Christians, but reject Jesus when persecution comes. They prove that they were never truly Christians.

See: Persecute (Persecution) ; Save (Salvation, Saved from Sins); Heaven; Gospel; Kingdom of God; Preach (Preacher)

24:15-28

What is the abomination of desolation?

[24:15]

Jesus talked about an “abomination of desolation.” This was when someone who rejected God did something that greatly dishonored God. Daniel also wrote about this (see: Daniel 7:27; 11:31; 12:11). Some scholars think Daniel wrote about a Gentile leader who sacrificed an unclean animal on the altar in the temple. Some scholars think Jesus talked about a time when the antichrist would sacrifice something in the temple or claim to be God in the temple. Other scholars think Jesus spoke about a time when people would no longer go to the temple. Other scholars think it is some type of idolatry.

Some scholars think Jesus spoke about a time 40 years after he returned to heaven. Other scholars think Jesus spoke about a time near to his return to the earth (see: Revelation 4-19).

See: Gentile; Sacrifice; Clean and Unclean; Altar; Temple; Antichrist; Idolatry (Idol); Heaven; Jesus' Return to Earth

What did Jesus want people to do when they saw the abomination of desolation?

[24:16]

Jesus wanted people to flee and go away from Jerusalem when people saw the abomination of desolation. He wanted them to know that he will judge people at this time. He warned people by telling them that there would be great dangers at this time.

See: Daniel 9:27

See: Woe; Tribulation; Judge (Judgment)

How did Jesus want the people to pray?

[24:20]

When Jesus told the people to pray, he meant that they should pray continually. This is because it would be very difficult to live during these times. Winter weather made travel much more difficult. The Jewish Christians still followed the Sabbath according to the Law of Moses, so traveling on a Sabbath would also be difficult for them.He wanted them to pray that they would not have more difficult things in their life when they had to live through these difficult times.

See: Pray (Prayer); Sabbath; Law of Moses; Persecute (Persecution)

What is the great tribulation?

[24:21]

See: Tribulation

What was meant by the words, “unless those days are shortened”?

[24:22]

Jesus said that if God did not make this period of time short, then no flesh would be saved. That is, no one would live through it. Jesus warned people about a time of great tribulation. Scholars think that God’s judgment will be so complete that all people would die. However, God will shorten the time of his judgment on earth so that his elect will be saved.

See: Elect (Election); Tribulation; Judge (Judgment)

Why should people not believe that Jesus returned?

[24:23]

Jesus warned about a time when many people would say they are the messiah or that they are Jesus who returned to earth. However, everyone will know that Jesus has returned to earth when he returns (see: Matthew 24:23-27). Therefore, people should not believe other people who say this even if they do miracles and signs. However, many Christians will believe these false messiahs and false prophets.

See: Messiah (Christ); Jesus' Return to Earth; False Prophet; Sign; Miracle; Son of Man

Why did Jesus speak about vultures?

[24:28]

Jesus spoke about vultures. They are birds that eat dead animals. They can see these dead animals from far away. When people saw vultures in the sky, they knew that there was a dead animal. This was a metaphor. He was speaking about how everyone will know when Jesus returns to the earth.

See: Metaphor

24:29-44

When are the days of tribulation?

[24:29]

Jesus spoke about certain days of tribulation or trouble. Some scholars think he spoke about the difficult times that happened soon after he returned to earth. Other scholars think he spoke about the time near his return to the earth.

See: Tribulation; Jesus' Return to Earth; Persecute (Persecution)

Why did Jesus talk about things that happen in the sky?

[24:29]

Jesus spoke about certain things people could see in the sky. Some scholars think these things will actually happen just before Jesus returns to the earth. Other scholars think this was a metaphor. Just as the stars will fall from the sky, so the rulers of the world will be destroyed. Jesus said these things to warn people.

See: Joel 2:10; 3:15; Ezekiel 32:7-8

See: Metaphor

What will people see?

[24:30]

The people will see sign of the Son of Man. That is, the sign itself will be Jesus coming to earth with glory. Scholars think Jesus will return to earth and everyone will know that he is God.

See: Sign; Son of Man; Glory (Glorify); Jesus is God; Jesus' Return to Earth; Heaven

What will Jesus do when he returns to the earth?

[24:30, 24:31]

When Jesus returns to the earth, he will bring angels who serve him. He will gather all Christians from all over the world and bring them to himself.

See: Jesus' Return to Earth; Angel; Elect (Election)

Why did Jesus talk about a fig tree?

[24:32]

Jesus talked about a fig tree to help people understand the things he said. This was a metaphor. When a fig tree does certain things, people know that the seasons are changing. He wanted people to know that he was going to return to the earth soon when the things he spoke about happened.

See: Metaphor; Jesus' Return to Earth; Hebrew Calendar (Seasons in Israel)

When will all these things happen?

[24:34]

Some scholars think that these things happened 40 years after Jesus prophesied these things. Other scholars think Jesus spoke about people in the future who lived when they saw the things he spoke about in this passage.

Jesus said that heaven and earth will end, but his words will not change. The apostle spoke about heaven and earth ending (see: Revelation 21). However, the things about which Jesus spoke must first happen.

Jesus said that he did not know when these things would happen. Only God the Father knew these things will happen.

See: Prophecy (Prophesy) ; Jesus' Return to Earth; Heaven; God the Father; Apostle

Why did Jesus speak about Noah?

[24:37]

When Noah lived, God punished the whole world with a flood. God warned people that he was going to punish them, but they did not listen to Noah, or repent. When the flood came, the people were not prepared and they could not escape the waters of the flood. This is also how it will be when Jesus returns. People will not believe the things Jesus said. They will be unprepared, that is, they will not repent of their sin. God will punish them and it will be too late for them to repent.

See: Repent (Repentance); Son of Man; Punish (Punishment); Sin

How will one person be taken and the other left behind?

[24:40]

Jesus warned that two people will be together. One of them will be taken and the other will be left behind. Some scholars think Jesus was speaking about the rapture. At this time, Christians will be taken from the earth and non-Christians will be left behind to endure the tribulation. Other scholars think Jesus was speaking about non-Christians being taken away to judgment and death.

See: RaptureKingdom of God; Tribulation; Judge (Judgment)

24:45-51

Why did Jesus talk about a master and a servant?

[24:45]

Jesus talked about a master and a servant. He wanted the Chrsitians to encourage other Chrsitians because they served him. He will reward the Christians who obey him. However, there are some people who do not obey Jesus and Jesus will reject them. Scholars think these are people who say they are Christians but who reject Jesus and do not serve him. Because of this, Jesus will send them to be punished forever in hell.

See: Reward; Hell

What was a hypocrite?

[24:51]

A hypocrite was someone who said one thing and did something else.

See: Hypocrisy (Hypocirte)

What is weeping and grinding of teeth?

[24:51]

Jesus spoke about weeping and grinding teeth. This is what people would do when they were suffering. Scholars think people who are in great pain will grind their teeth and cry loudly. In the Bible, these words are used to talk about the things people do when they are being punished.

See: Punish (Punishment)

Matthew 24:2

Do you not see all these things?

"Let me tell you something about all these buildings."

Truly I say to you

"I tell you the truth." This adds emphasis to what Jesus says next.

not one stone will be left on another that will not be torn down

"when the enemy soldiers come, they will tear down every stone in these buildings"

Matthew 24:3

What will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age

"What will be the sign that you are about to come and that the world is about to end"

Matthew 24:4

Be careful that no one leads you astray

"Be careful that no one deceives you"

Matthew 24:5

many will come in my name

"many will claim to have my authority as Christ"

will lead many astray

"will deceive many people"

Matthew 24:6

See that you are not troubled

"Do not let these things trouble you"

Matthew 24:7

For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom

Jesus is emphasizing that people everywhere will fight each other.

Matthew 24:8

the beginning of birth pains

Wars, famines, and earthquakes are just the beginning of the events that will lead to the end of the age.

Matthew 24:9

they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you

"people will give you over to the authorities, who will make you suffer and will kill you."

You will be hated by all the nations

"People from every nation will hate you"

for my name's sake

"because you believe in me"

Matthew 24:11

will rise up

"will come"

and lead many astray

"and deceive many people"

Matthew 24:12

lawlessness will increase

"disobeying the law will increase" or "people will disobey God's law more and more"

the love of many will grow cold

Possible meanings are 1) "many people will no longer love other people" or 2) "many people will no longer love God."

Matthew 24:13

the one who endures to the end will be saved

"God will save the person who endures to the end"

the one who endures

"the person who stays faithful"

the end

"the end of the world" or "the end of the age"

Matthew 24:14

This good news of the kingdom will be preached

"People will tell the good news that God will rule"

all the nations

"all people in all places"

Matthew 24:15

the abomination of desolation, which was spoken of by Daniel the prophet

"the shameful one who defiles the things of God, about whom Daniel the prophet wrote"

let the reader understand

This is not Jesus speaking. Matthew added this to alert the reader that Jesus was using words that they would need to think about and interpret.

Matthew 24:19

in those days

"at that time"

Matthew 24:20

that your flight will not occur

"that you will not have to flee" or "that you will not have to run away"

the winter

"the cold season"

Matthew 24:22

Unless those days had been shortened, no flesh would be saved

"If God had not shortened the time of suffering, everyone would have died" or "Because God shortened those days, some people lived"

no flesh

"nobody" or "no one."

those days will be shortened

"God will shorten the time of suffering"

Matthew 24:23

do not believe it

"do not believe the false thing they have said to you"

Matthew 24:24

so as to lead astray, if possible, even the elect

"so as to deceive, if possible, even the elect" or "so as to deceive people. If possible, they would even deceive the elect"

Matthew 24:26

if they say to you, 'Look, he is in the wilderness,' do

"if someone tells you that the Christ is in the wilderness, do"

Or, 'See, he is in the inner rooms,'

"Or, if someone tells you that the Christ is in the inner room,"

in the inner rooms

"in a secret room" or "in secret places"

Matthew 24:27

as the lightning shines ... so will be the coming

This means that the Son of Man will come very quickly and will be easy to see.

the Son of Man

Jesus is speaking about himself.

Matthew 24:28

Wherever a dead animal is, there the vultures will gather

Possible meanings are 1) when the Son of Man comes, everyone will see him and know that he has come, or 2) wherever spiritually dead people are, false prophets will be there to tell them lies.

vultures

birds that eat the bodies of dead or dying creatures

Matthew 24:29

immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun

"as soon as the that time of suffering of those days has finished, the sun"

the sun will be darkened

"God will make the sun dark"

the powers of the heavens will be shaken

"God will shake things in the sky and above the sky"

Matthew 24:30

the Son of Man

Jesus is speaking about himself.

all the tribes

"all the people of the tribes" or "all the people"

Matthew 24:31

He will send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet

"He will have a trumpet sounded and send his angels" or "He will have an angel blow a trumpet, and he will send his angels"

they will gather

"his angels will gather"

his elect

These are the people whom the Son of Man has chosen.

from the four winds, from one end of the sky to the other

"from all over the world"

Matthew 24:33

he is near, at the very gates

"I am near and will soon appear"

Matthew 24:34

Truly I say to you

"I tell you the truth." This adds emphasis to what Jesus says next.

this generation will not pass away

"the people of this generation will not all die"

this generation

Possible interpretations are 1) "all people alive today," referring to the people alive when Jesus was speaking, or 2) "all people alive when these things I have just told you about happen." Try to translate so that both interpretations are possible.

until all of these things will have happened

"until God causes all these things to happen"

Matthew 24:35

Heaven and the earth will pass away

"Even heaven and the earth will pass away"

my words will never pass away

"what I say will always be true"

Matthew 24:36

that day and hour

Here "day" and "hour" refer to the exact time that the Son of Man will return.

nor the Son

"not even the Son"

Son

This refers to Jesus, the Son of God. It is best to translate “Son” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human son.

Father

This refers to God the Father. It is best to translate “Father” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human father.

Matthew 24:37

As the days of Noah were, so will be the coming of the Son of Man

"At the time when the Son of Man comes, it will be like the time of Noah."

so will be the coming of the Son of Man

"so will it be when I, the Son of Man, come"

Matthew 24:39

away—so will be the coming of the Son of Man

"away. This is how it will be when the Son of Man comes"

Matthew 24:40

Then

This is when the Son of Man comes.

one will be taken, and one will be left

Possible meanings are 1) the Son of Man will take one away to heaven and will leave the other on earth for punishment or 2) the angels will take one away for punishment and leave the other for blessing.

Matthew 24:42

Therefore

"Because what I have just said is true"

be on your guard

"pay attention"

Matthew 24:43

that if the master of the house ... broken into

Jesus uses a parable of a master and servants to illustrate that his disciples should be prepared for his return.

the thief

Jesus is saying he will come when people are not expecting him, not that he will come to steal.

he would have been on guard

"he would have guarded his house"

would not have allowed his house to be broken into

"would not have allowed anyone to get into his house to steal things"

Matthew 24:44

the Son of Man

Jesus is speaking about himself.

Matthew 24:45

So who is the faithful and wise servant whom his master ... time?

"So who is the faithful and wise servant? He is the one whom his master ... time." or "Be like the faithful and wise servant, whom his master ... time."

Matthew 24:47

Truly I say to you

"I tell you the truth." This adds emphasis to what Jesus says next.

Matthew 24:48

says in his heart

"thinks in his mind"

My master has been delayed

"My master is slow to return" or "My master will not return for a long time"

Matthew 24:50

on a day that the servant does not expect and at an hour that he does not know

This emphasize that the master will come when the servant is not expecting him.

Matthew 24:51

cut him in pieces

This means to make the person suffer terribly.

assign him a place with the hypocrites

"put him with the hypocrites" or "send him to the place where hypocrites are sent"

there will be weeping and grinding of teeth

"people will weep and grind their teeth because of their suffering"

Chapter 25

¹ "Then the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. ² Five of them were foolish and five were wise. ³ For when the foolish virgins took their lamps, they did not take any oil with them. ⁴ But the wise virgins took containers of oil along with their lamps.

⁵ Now while the bridegroom was delayed, they all got sleepy and slept. ⁶ But at midnight there was a cry, 'Look, the bridegroom! Go out and meet him.'

⁷ Then all those virgins rose up and trimmed their lamps. ⁸ The foolish said to the wise, 'Give us some of your oil because our lamps are going out.'

⁹ "But the wise answered and said, 'Since there will not be enough for us and you, go instead to those who sell and buy some for yourselves.'

¹⁰ While they went away to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went with him to the marriage feast, and the door was shut.

¹¹ "Afterward the other virgins also came and said, 'Master, master, open for us.'

¹² "But he answered and said, 'Truly I say to you, I do not know you.' ¹³ Watch therefore, for you do not know the day or the hour.

¹⁴ "For it is like when a man was about to go into another country. He called his own servants and entrusted his possessions to them. ¹⁵ To one of them he gave five talents, to another he gave two, and to yet another he gave one talent. Each one received an amount according to his own ability, and that man went on his journey. ¹⁶ The one who received the five talents went at once and worked with them and gained another five talents.

¹⁷ In the same way, the one who had received two talents gained another two. ¹⁸ But the servant who had received one talent went away, dug a hole in the ground, and hid his master's money.

¹⁹ Now after a long time the master of those servants came back and settled accounts with them. ²⁰ The servant who had received the five talents came and brought another five talents. He said, 'Master, you entrusted me with five talents. See, I have gained five talents more.'

²¹ "His master said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful over a few things. I will put you in charge over many things. Enter into the joy of your master.'

²² "The servant who had received two talents came and said, 'Master, you gave me two talents. See, I have gained two more talents.'

²³ "His master said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful over a few things. I will put you in charge over many things. Enter into the joy of your master.'

²⁴ "Then the servant who had received one talent came and said, 'Master, I know that you are a hard man. You reap where you did not sow, and you harvest where you did not scatter. ²⁵ I was afraid, so I went away and hid your talent in the ground. See, you have here what belongs to you.'

²⁶ "But his master answered and said to him, 'You wicked and lazy servant, you knew that I reap where I have not sowed and harvest where I have not scattered. ²⁷ Therefore you should have given my money to the bankers, and at my coming I would have received back my own with interest.

²⁸ Therefore take away the talent from him and give it to the servant who has ten talents. ²⁹ For to everyone who possesses more will be given, and he will have an abundance. But from anyone who does not possess anything, even what he does have will be taken away. ³⁰ Throw the worthless servant out into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and grinding of teeth.'

³¹ "When the Son of Man comes in his glory and all the angels with him, then he will sit on his glorious throne. ³² Before him will be gathered all the nations, and he will separate the people one from another, as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. ³³ He will place the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on his left.

³⁴ Then the King will say to those on his right hand, 'Come, you who have been blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. ³⁵ For I was hungry and you gave me food; I was thirsty and you gave me a drink; I was a stranger and you took me in; ³⁶ I was naked and you clothed me; I was sick and you cared for me; I was in prison and you came to me.'

³⁷ "Then the righteous will answer and say, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you? Or thirsty and give you a drink? ³⁸ When did we see you a stranger and take you in? Or naked and clothe you? ³⁹ When did we see you sick or in prison and come to you?'

⁴⁰ "Then the King will answer and say to them, 'Truly I say to you, what you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did it for me.'

⁴¹ Then he will say to those on his left hand, 'Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire that has been prepared for the devil and his angels, ⁴² because I was hungry, but you did not give me food; I was thirsty, but you did not give me a drink; ⁴³ I was a stranger, but you did not take me in; naked, but you did not clothe me; sick and in prison, but you did not care for me.'

⁴⁴ "Then they will also answer and say, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry, or thirsty, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not serve you?'

⁴⁵ "Then he will answer them and say, 'Truly I say to you, what you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.' ⁴⁶ These will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life."

Matthew 25

25:1-13

Why did Jesus talk about ten virgins?

[25:1]

Jesus spoke about ten virgins and the kingdom of heaven. This was a parable. In ancient Israel, a groom would go to the house of his bride’s parents to get married. Then he would bring her to his house at night. There would be a feast at his house.

Jesus wanted people to be ready for him to return, even if it took longer for Jesus to return than they expected. Some scholars think Jesus was speaking about Jews who lived during the tribulation. Other scholars think Jesus was speaking about Christians.

The virgins who were not prepared for the groom to come were not allowed to be part of the wedding feast. Some scholars think this is because they rejected Jesus. They will be punished and live forever in hell. Other scholars think Jesus was speaking about Christians who would not be rewarded because they did not obey Jesus.

Advice to translators: A virgin was someone who has never had sex. A groom or bridegroom was what people called a man who was getting married.A bride was what people called a woman who was getting married.

See: Kingdom of God; Parable; Bride of Christ; Wedding; Tribulation; Jesus' Return to Earth; Punish (Punishment); Reward

25:14-30

Why did Jesus talk about the parable of the five talents?

[25:15]

Jesus told these people a parable about servants. Jesus is the master. He gave each of his servants talents. A talent was a very large sum of money. It would normally take a person 20 years to earn this much money. He wanted to say that Jesus gave people different abilities and trusted them to serve him in different ways. Two of the servants used their money. He wanted people to know that it pleased God when people used their abilities to serve God. The other man did not use the abilities God gave him. Overall, he wanted people to know that God would reward people who served and obeyed him. He would also entrust more to people who had been faithful to him.

When Jesus spoke about the evil servant, some scholars think he was speaking about the Jews. God had trusted them and told them about the messiah. However, they rejected the messiah and would be punished for it. Other scholars think that the evil servants were people who said they served God, but who were not at peace with God. They would be punished and sent to hell.

See: Parable; Reward; Punish (Punishment); Hell; Messiah (Christ)

What is the outer darkness?

[25:30]

When Jesus spoke about the outer darkness, he was speaking about hell.

See: Light and Darkness (Metaphor); Hell

What is weeping and grinding of teeth?

[25:30]

See: Punish (Punishment)

25:31-46

What will Jesus do when he returns to the earth?

[25:31]

When Jesus, the Son of man, returns to the earth, he will bring angels who serve him. He will gather all Christians from all over the world and bring them to himself. He will sit on his glorious throne. That is, he will rule the world.

Jesus will also separate the sheep from the goats. This is a metaphor. He will separate Christians from non-Christians. Christians will inherit the kingdom of God. This is something that God prepared for them when he created the world. He rewards them because they served other people and when they served other people, they served God. He will punish those who did believe and obey God. They will be sent to hell to be punished.

See: Son of Man; Jesus' Return to Earth; Angel; Throne; Glory (Glorify); Metaphor; Inherit (Inheritance, Heir); Kingdom of God; Reward; Hell; Punish (Punishment); Righteous (Righteousness); Eternal Life

Matthew 25:1

the kingdom of heaven will be like

"when our God in heaven shows himself to be king, it will be like"

lamps

These could have been 1) lamps or 2) torches made by putting cloth around the end of a stick and wetting the cloth with oil.

Matthew 25:2

Five of them

"Five of the virgins"

Matthew 25:3

did not take any oil with them

"had with them only the oil in their lamps"

Matthew 25:5

Now

This word is used here to mark a new part of the story.

while the bridegroom was delayed

"while the bridegroom was taking a long time to arrive"

they all got sleepy

"all ten virgins got sleepy"

Matthew 25:6

there was a cry

"someone shouted"

Matthew 25:7

trimmed their lamps

"adjusted their lamps so they would burn brightly"

Matthew 25:8

The foolish said to the wise

"The foolish virgins said to the wise virgins"

our lamps are going out

"the fire in our lamps is about to burn out"

Matthew 25:10

they went away

"the five foolish virgins went away"

to buy

"to buy more oil"

those who were ready

These are the virgins who had extra oil.

the door was shut

"the servants shut the door"

Matthew 25:11

open for us

"open the door for us so we can come inside"

Matthew 25:12

Truly I say to you

"I tell you the truth." This adds emphasis to what the master says next.

I do not know you

"I do not know who you are."

Matthew 25:13

you do not know the day or the hour

"you do not know the exact time when the Son of Man will return"

Matthew 25:14

it is like

The word "it" here refers to the kingdom of heaven

entrusted his possessions to them

"put them in charge of his hat he owned"

Matthew 25:15

five talents

"five bags of gold" or "five bags of gold, each worth 20 years' wages"

to another he gave two ... gave one talent

"to another he gave two talents of gold ... gave one talent of gold" or "to another he gave two bags of gold ... gave one bag of gold"

according to his own ability

"according to each servant's skill in managing wealth"

Matthew 25:16

worked with them

"invested the talents" or "used them in business" or "traded with them"

Matthew 25:17

gained another two

"earned another two talents"

Matthew 25:20

I have gained five talents more

"I have earned five more talents"

Matthew 25:21

Well done

"You have done right." Your culture might have an expression that a master (or someone in authority) would use to show that he approves of what his servant (or someone under him) has done.

Enter into the joy of your master

"Come and be happy with me"

Matthew 25:22

I have gained two more talents

"I have earned two more talents"

Matthew 25:23

Well done

"You have done well" or "You have done right."

Enter into the joy of your master

"Come and be happy with me"

Matthew 25:24

a hard man

Possible meanings are 1) a man who demands much from other people or 2) a man who does not treat others well.

You reap where you did not sow, and you harvest where you did not scatter

The words "reap where you did not sow" and "harvest where you did not scatter" mean the same thing. They refer to a farmer who gathers crops that other people have planted.

scatter

"scatter seed." This refers to sowing seed by gently throwing handfuls of it onto the soil.

Matthew 25:26

You wicked and lazy servant, you knew

"You are a wicked servant who does not want to work. You knew"

Matthew 25:27

received back my own

"received back my own money"

interest

payment from the banker for the temporary use of the master's money

Matthew 25:28

take away the talent

The master is speaking to other servants.

Matthew 25:29

who possesses

"who uses well what he has"

from anyone who does not possess anything

"from anyone does not use well what he has"

will be taken away

"God will take away" or "I will take away"

Matthew 25:30

the outer darkness

"the dark place away from God"

weeping and grinding of teeth

"weeping and expressing their extreme suffering"

Matthew 25:31

the Son of Man

Jesus is speaking about himself.

Matthew 25:32

Before him will be gathered all the nations

"He will gather all the nations before him"

Before him

"In front of him"

all the nations

"all people from every country"

Matthew 25:33

He will place the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on his left

The Son of Man will separate all people. He will put the righteous people at his right side, and he will put the sinners at his left side.

Matthew 25:34

the King ... his right hand

"I, the King, ... my right hand"

my Father

This refers to God the Father. It is best to translate “Father” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human father.

inherit the kingdom prepared for you

"receive the blessings of God's rule that he has planned to give you"

from the foundation of the world

"since he first created the world"

Matthew 25:37

the righteous

"the righteous people"

Or thirsty

"Or when did we see you thirsty"

Matthew 25:38

Or naked

"Or when did we see you naked"

Matthew 25:40

the King

Jesus is speaking about himself.

say to them

"say to those at his right hand"

Truly I say to you

"I tell you the truth." This emphasizes what the King says next.

one of the least

"one of the least important"

these brothers of mine

"my brothers and sisters here" or "these who are like my brothers and sisters"

you did it for me

"I consider that you did it for me"

Matthew 25:41

Then he will

Jesus is speaking about himself.

the eternal fire that has been prepared

"the eternal fire that God has prepared"

his angels

the devil's helpers

Matthew 25:43

naked, but you did not clothe me

"I was naked, but you did not give me clothes"

sick and in prison

"I was sick and in prison"

Matthew 25:45

for one of the least of these

"for any of the least important ones of my people"

you did not do for me

"I consider that you did not do it for me" or "I was really the one whom you did not help"

Matthew 25:46

These will go away into eternal punishment

"The King will send these to a place where they will receive punishment that never ends"

but the righteous into eternal life

"but the King will send the righteous to the place where they will live forever with God"

the righteous

"the righteous people"

Chapter 26

¹ It came about that when Jesus had finished all these words, he said to his disciples, ² "You know that after two days the Passover is coming, and the Son of Man will be given over to be crucified."

³ Then the chief priests and the elders of the people were gathered together in the palace of the high priest, who was named Caiaphas. ⁴ They plotted together to arrest Jesus stealthily and kill him. ⁵ For they were saying, "Not during the festival, so that a riot does not arise among the people."

⁶ Now while Jesus was in Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, ⁷ as he was reclining at table, a woman came to him having an alabaster jar of very expensive ointment, and she poured it upon his head. ⁸ But when his disciples saw it, they became angry and said, "What is the reason for this waste? ⁹ This could have been sold for a large amount and given to the poor."

¹⁰ But Jesus, knowing this, said to them, "Why are you causing trouble for this woman? For she has done a beautiful thing for me. ¹¹ You always have the poor with you, but you will not always have me.

¹² For when she poured this ointment on my body, she did it for my burial. ¹³ Truly I say to you, wherever this good news is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will also be spoken of in memory of her."

¹⁴ Then one of the twelve, who was named Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests ¹⁵ and said, "What are you willing to give me to turn him over to you?" They weighed out thirty pieces of silver for him. ¹⁶ From that moment he sought an opportunity to turn him over to them.

¹⁷ Now on the first day of unleavened bread the disciples came to Jesus and said, "Where do you want us to prepare for you to eat the Passover meal?"

¹⁸ He said, "Go into the city to a certain man and say to him, 'The Teacher says, "My time is at hand. I will keep the Passover at your house with my disciples."'" ¹⁹ The disciples did as Jesus directed them, and they prepared the Passover meal.

²⁰ When evening came, he sat down to eat with the twelve disciples. ²¹ As they were eating, he said, "Truly I say to you that one of you will betray me."

²² They were very sorrowful, and each one began to ask him, "Surely not I, Lord?"

²³ He answered, "The one who dips his hand with me in the dish is the one who will betray me. ²⁴ The Son of Man will go, just as it is written about him. But woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would be better for that man if he had not been born."

²⁵ Judas, who would betray him said, "Is it I, Rabbi?"

He said to him, "You have said it yourself."

²⁶ As they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed it, and broke it. He gave it to the disciples and said, "Take, eat. This is my body."

²⁷ He took a cup and gave thanks, and gave it to them and said, "Drink it, all of you. ²⁸ For this is my blood of the covenant that is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. ²⁹ But I say to you, I will not drink again of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom."

³⁰ When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives. ³¹ Then Jesus said to them, "All of you will fall away tonight because of me, for it is written,

'I will strike the shepherd

and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.'

³² But after I am raised up, I will go ahead of you into Galilee."

³³ But Peter said to him, "Even if all fall away because of you, I will never fall away."

³⁴ Jesus said to him, "Truly I say to you, this very night, before the rooster crows, you will deny me three times."

³⁵ Peter said to him, "Even if I must die with you, I will not deny you." All the other disciples said the same thing.

³⁶ Then Jesus went with them to a place called Gethsemane and said to his disciples, "Sit here while I go over there and pray." ³⁷ He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee with him and began to become sorrowful and troubled. ³⁸ Then he said to them, "My soul is deeply sorrowful, even to death. Remain here and watch with me."

³⁹ He went a little farther, fell on his face, and prayed. He said, "My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me. Yet, not as I will, but as you will." ⁴⁰ He came to the disciples and found them sleeping, and he said to Peter, "What, could you not watch with me for one hour? ⁴¹ Watch and pray that you do not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak."

⁴² He went away a second time and prayed. He said, "My Father, if this cannot pass away unless I drink it, your will be done." ⁴³ He came again and found them sleeping, for their eyes were heavy. ⁴⁴ So leaving them again, he went away and prayed a third time, saying the same words.

⁴⁵ Then Jesus came to the disciples and said to them, "Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? Look, the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man is being betrayed into the hands of sinners. ⁴⁶ Arise, let us go. Look, the one who is betraying me is near."

⁴⁷ While he was still speaking, Judas, one of the twelve, came. A large crowd came with him from the chief priests and elders of the people. They came with swords and clubs. ⁴⁸ Now the man who was going to betray Jesus had given them a signal, saying, "The one I kiss is the man. Seize him."

⁴⁹ Immediately he came up to Jesus and said, "Greetings, Rabbi!" and he kissed him.

⁵⁰ Jesus said to him, "Friend, do what you have come to do." Then they came, laid hands on Jesus, and seized him.

⁵¹ Behold, one of those who was with Jesus stretched out his hand, drew his sword, and struck the servant of the high priest, and cut off his ear. ⁵² Then Jesus said to him, "Put your sword back in its place, for all those who take up the sword will perish by the sword. ⁵³ Do you think that I could not call upon my Father, and he would send me more than twelve legions of angels? ⁵⁴ But how then would the scriptures be fulfilled, that this must happen?"

⁵⁵ At that time Jesus said to the crowd, "Have you come out with swords and clubs to seize me like a robber? Every day I sat teaching in the temple, and you did not arrest me. ⁵⁶ But all this has happened so that the writings of the prophets might be fulfilled." Then all the disciples abandoned him and fled.

⁵⁷ Those who had seized Jesus led him away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders had gathered together. ⁵⁸ But Peter followed him from a distance to the courtyard of the high priest. He went inside and sat down with the officers to see the outcome.

⁵⁹ Now the chief priests and the whole council were looking for false testimony against Jesus so that they might put him to death. ⁶⁰ They did not find any, even though many false witnesses came forward. But later two came forward ⁶¹ and said, "This man said, 'I am able to destroy the temple of God and rebuild it in three days.'"

⁶² The high priest stood up and said to him, "Do you have no answer? What is it that they are testifying against you?" ⁶³ But Jesus was silent. The high priest said to him, "I command you by the living God, tell us whether you are the Christ, the Son of God."

⁶⁴ Jesus replied to him, "You have said it yourself. But I tell you, from now on you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of Power, and coming on the clouds of heaven."

⁶⁵ Then the high priest tore his clothes and said, "He has spoken blasphemy! Why do we still need witnesses? Look, now you have heard the blasphemy. ⁶⁶ What do you think?"

They answered and said, "He is deserving of death."

⁶⁷ Then they spit in his face and beat him with their fists, while some slapped him ⁶⁸ and said, "Prophesy to us, you Christ. Who is it that struck you?"

⁶⁹ Now Peter was sitting outside in the courtyard, and a servant girl came to him and said, "You were also with Jesus of Galilee."

⁷⁰ But he denied it in front of them all, saying, "I do not know what you are talking about."

⁷¹ When he went out to the gateway, another servant girl saw him and said to those there, "This man was also with Jesus of Nazareth."

⁷² He again denied it with an oath, "I do not know the man!"

⁷³ After a little while those who were standing by came and said to Peter, "Surely you are also one of them, for the way you speak gives you away."

⁷⁴ Then he began to curse and swear, "I do not know the man," and immediately a rooster crowed.

⁷⁵ Peter remembered the words that Jesus had said, "Before the rooster crows you will deny me three times." Then he went outside and wept bitterly.

Matthew 26

26:1-5

What was Passover?

[26:2]

See: Passover

How will the Son of Man be crucified?

[26:2]

Jesus prophesied that the Son of Man will be crucified. He told people that he was about to die by crucifixion. Jesus told his disciples that someone would help others to arrest Jesus. He was thinking about Judas helping the Jewish leaders to arrest and crucify Jesus.

See: Prophecy (Prophesy) ; Son of Man; Crucify (Crucifixion); Disciple

Who were the chief priests and elders?

[26:3]

When Jesus spoke about elders, he was speaking about certain Jewish leaders who were older men.

See: Chief Priest; Elder

What was the palace of the high priest?

[26:3]

The palace of the high priest was the place where the high priest lived. He also worked in this place.

See: High Priest

Why did the Jewish leaders plot to kill Jesus?

[26:4]

The Jewish leaders plotted to kill Jesus. That is, they made plans to arrest and kill Jesus. They believed that he broke the Law of Moses and should be killed. However, he did not break the Law of Moses. They had to plan to do this in secret, because many people loved Jesus and thought he was a prophet. They did not want people to see them arrest Jesus. They feared what people would be angry if they arrested Jesus.

See: Law of Moses; Prophet

26:6-16

Where was Bethany?

[26:6]

See Map: Bethany

What was a leper?

[26:6]

See: Leprosy (Leper)

Why was Jesus reclining at the table?

[26:7]

In ancient Israel, people ate by reclining at a table. Jesus reclined at a table because he had just eaten.

What did this woman have?

[26:7]

The woman had a jar with certain oil that smelled very good. Some people call this perfume. She opened this jar and poured it on Jesus head and feet to honor him. Jesus also said when she did this it was an anointing that prepared his body to be buried. In ancient Israel, people poured various ointments or oils on a dead person before they buried them.

See: John 12:3-7

See: Anoint (Anointing)

Why did the disciples not want this woman to do this?

[26:8, 26:9]

The disciples did not want this woman to pour this expensive oil on Jesus. This is because it would only smell good for a short time. However, if it was sold, it was worth about the same amount of money as someone would make in one year. This could be used to help many poor people. Jesus said they were wrong. This is because what she did was a symbol. She helped Jesus prepare to die so people could be at peace with God. This was greater than helping poor people.

See: Symbol; Disciple

What is the good news?

[26:13]

See: Gospel; Preach (Preacher)

Why did Judas go to the chief priests?

[26:14]

Judas went to the chief priests to help them arrest Jesus. Scholars do not agree why he did this. The priests gave Judas a large amount of money to help them.

See: Zechariah 11:12-13

See: Chief Priest

26:17-35

What was the first day of unleavened bread?

[26:17]

The first of unleavened bread was the first day of the Festival of Unleavened Bread. This was the day they sacrificed a lamb for the passover.

See: Exodus 12:14-20

See: Festival of Unleavened Bread; Offer (Offering); Sacrifice; Passover

What did it mean that the disciples needed to prepare for the passover meal?

[26:17]

The disciples needed to prepare for the passover meal. That is, they needed to become clean so they could eat this meal. They also needed to get certain foods ready to eat for this meal.

See: Disciple; Passoverr; Clean and Unclean

Why did Jesus say “my time is at hand”?

[26:18]

When Jesus said “my time is at hand,” he used a metaphor. He was saying that it was about time for him to die.

See: Metaphor

How did Jesus know that one of his disciples was going to betray him?

[26:21]

After travelling with these twelve disciples for three years, Jesus had one last meal with them. During this meal, he told them that one of the disciples would betray him. Scholars think that the Holy Spirit helped Jesus to know which disciple was going to betray him.

This man would be punished for what he did. He would live forever in hell and be punished there forever. This is why it would be better for him to have not been born than to be punished forever in hell.

See: Disciple; Holy Spirit; Hell; Son of Man; Woe; Punish (Punishment)

Why did Jesus say the things he did to the disciples?

[26:23, 26:24]

During this last meal, Jesus told the disciples certain things. Chrsitians now celebrate the Lord’s Supper to remember Jesus (see: 1 Corinthians 11:23-25). Scholars disagree about why Jesus wanted Christians to do this.

See: Lord's Supper; New Covenant; Kingdom of God

What was a hymn?

[26:30]

A hymn was a song that was sung to worship God.

See: Worship

Where was the Mount of Olives?

[26:30]

See Map: Mount of Olives

Why did Jesus say that “all of you will fall away”?

[26:31]

Jesus said that the disciples would fall away. He said this would fulfill what Zecariah prophesied (see: Zechariah 13:7). This was a metaphor. Jesus was the shepherd and the disciples were the sheep. When Jesus died, the disciples would not want people to know they followed Jesus. However, this did not last for very long.

Peter said that he would never deny Jesus, that is, fall away. However, Peter denied Jesus three times that night.

See: Fall (Fall Away, Stand); Prophecy (Prophesy) ; Metaphor; Fulfill (Fulfillment); Shepherd

Where were these things written?

[26:31]

See: Zechariah 13:7

Where was Galilee?

[26:32]

See Map: Galilee

How will Peter deny Jesus?

[26:34]

Jesus said that Peter would deny him. That is, Peter would say that he did not know Jesus. Peter would deny knowing Jesus and being one of Jesus’s disciples.

See: Disciple

26:36-46

Where was Gethsemane?

[26:36]

See Map: Gethsemane

What is a soul?

[26:38]

See: Soul

Why was Jesus sorrowful?

[26:38]

Jesus was sorrowful when he prayed. He knew he was about to die. He was not afraid to die because he knew why he had to die. However, he was overwhelmed because he knew that he was about to be separated from God the Father in some way. He was also punished by God for the sins of all people.

See: Atone (Atonement); Sin; Pray (Prayer)

Why did Jesus want the cup to pass?

[26:39]

Jesus asked God the Father if it was possible for the cup to pass. That is, he asked God the Father if he really had to die. This is a metaphor. He wanted to not have to be punished for all people. However, he was willing to die to obey God.

See: God the Father; Metaphor; Punish (Punishment); Will of God

Why did Jesus want Peter to pray not to enter into temptation?

[26:41]

Jesus wanted Peter to pray. However, Peter could not pray for one hour without falling asleep. Jesus told Peter to pray and ask not to enter into temptation. That is, that he would not be tempted. Peter was about to be tempted to deny Jesus and he, in fact, did deny Jesus (see: 26:69-75).

See: Pray (Prayer); Tempt (Temptation)

What did Jesus mean when he said, the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak?

[26:41]

Jesus said that the spirit was willing but the flesh was weak. People are weak, that is, they give up easily when they are suffering. They cannot do things that honor God without the help of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit wanted to help Peter. He just needed to ask for help.

See: Spirit (Spiritual); Flesh; Holy Spirit

How has the hour at hand?

[26:45]

Jesus said the hour is at hand. That is, the things he talked about were about to happen.

Who were the sinners?

[26:45]

Jesus said that he was betrayed to sinners. These sinners were the Jewish leaders. They were supposed to help people worship God. Instead, they did evil. He knew Judas was coming to help them arrest Jesus, even before he could see or hear Judas. Jesus did not wait for Judas but went out to meet him.

See: Son of Man; Sin; Worship

26:47-56

Who were the chief priests and elders?

[26:47]

When Matthew wrote about the elders, he was speaking about certain Jewish leaders who were older men.

See: Chief Priest; Scribe; Elder

How did Judas kiss Jesus?

[26:48, 26:49]

Judas kissed Jesus on the cheek. In ancient Israel, people often greeted each other in this way. What was a rabbi?

See: Rabbi

Why did someone cut off this man’s ear?

[26:51]

Someone who was with Jesus fought trying to defend Jesus. He did not want the Jewish leaders to arrest Jesus. When he did this, he cut off someone’s ear in his fighting.

See: High Priest

How many angels were twelve legions?

[26:53]

Twelve legions of angels were 60,000 angels.

See: Angel

What scriptures does this fulfill?

[26:54]

Jesus said that when the Jewish leaders arrested him, this fulfilled certain prophecies. These were prophecies said by Isaiah (see: Isaiah 53) and Zechariah (see: Zechariah 13:7). The disciples forsook Jesus. That is, they rejected him in some way and ran away.

See: Prophecy (Prophesy) ; Fulfill (Fulfillment)

26:57-68

What was the courtyard of the high priest?

[26:58]

The courtyard was an open space around the palace of the high priest. The Jewish leaders took Jesus to the courtyard of the high priest. This was where Peter went and sat down and watched the trial of Jesus.

See: High Priest; Scribe; Elder; Chief Priest; Jewish Council (Sanhedrin)

What was testimony against Jesus?

[26:59]

The Jewish leaders wanted testimony against Jesus. That is, they wanted people to speak against Jesus. They wanted them to say that he broke the Law of Moses in a way that meant he needed to be put to death. However, Jesus never broke the Law of Moses.

See: Law of Moses

What was meant by the words, “I am able to destroy the temple of God and rebuild it in three days”?

[26:61]

Jesus’ accusers claimed that he made the statement, “I am able to destroy the temple of God and rebuild it in three days”? This was a false accusation. When Jesus spoke about the destroying of a temple, this was a metaphor. He was speaking about the temple of his own body, which was to be put to death, and then raised to life in three days (see: John 2:18-22).

See: Temple; Metaphor; Resurrect (Resurrection)

Why did the high priest ask Jesus if he was the Messiah, the Son of God?

[26:63]

The high priest asked Jesus if he was the Messiah, the Son of the blessed one because he wanted to accuse Jesus of blasphemy. When he asked Jesus this, he wanted to see if Jesus would plainly say that he is the Messiah and God.

See: Messiah (Christ); Son of God; High Priest; Blaspheme (Blasphemy); Jesus is God

How did Jesus answer the high priest?

[26:64]

Jesus answered in a way that said he was equal to God. The high priest will see Jesus again when he is next to God in heaven in a place of honor and power and when he comes to judge the world. He will also return to the earth on clouds and will rule the world (see: Daniel 7:13-14).

The high priest tore his clothes because he thought Jesus blasphemed God. This is what the high priest did when someone blasphemed. According to the Law of Moses, blasphemy was punished by killing the person who blasphemed. However, Jesus did not blaspheme God because he is God.

See: Son of Man; Right Hand; Blaspheme (Blasphemy); Jesus is God; Heaven; Judge (Judgment); Jesus' Return to Earth; Law of Moses

How did the people ask Jesus to prophesy?

[26:68]

Many people beat Jesus at the same time. Scholars think his eyes were covered and he could not see. They mocked Jesus by asking him to prophesy and tell them which of the people hit him.

See: Prophecy (Prophesy)

26:69-75

Why did Peter deny Jesus?

[26:70, 26:72]

When Jesus was arrested, Peter followed near to Jesus. However, he stayed far away so people would not know he was one of the people who followed Jesus. He feared getting arrested. Therefore, he did not want anyone to know that he was one of the disciples. This is why he denied knowing Jesus.

See: Disciple

See: Map: Galilee; Nazareth

Why did the people talk about the way Peter spoke?

[26:73]

The people in Jerusalem spoke in a different way than the people in Galilee. Because of this, the girl knew Peter was from Galilee, the same place where Jesus and his disciples lived.

See: Disciple

See Map: Galilee

Why did Peter begin to curse and swear?

[26:74]

Peter wanted this girl to think he was not a disciple of Jesus. After he told he that he was not a disciple, he put himself under curses and swore. That is, he said if he was lying, God should curse him. He swore to her in the same way someone would speak in front of a judge.

See: Disciple; Swear (Oath); Curse; Judge (Judgment)

Matthew 26:1

It came about that when

"After" or "Then, after." This phrase shifts the story from Jesus's teachings to what happened next.

Matthew 26:2

the Son of Man will be given over to be crucified

"some men will give the Son of Man to other people who will crucify him"

the Son of Man

Jesus is speaking about himself.

Matthew 26:3

were gathered together

"came together" or "met together"

Matthew 26:5

Not during the festival

"We should not kill Jesus during the festival"

the festival

This is the yearly Passover festival.

Matthew 26:7

he was reclining

"Jesus was lying on his side." You can use your language's word for the position people usually are in when they eat.

alabaster jar

This is a costly container made of soft stone.

ointment

oil that has a pleasing smell

Matthew 26:8

What is the reason for this waste?

"This woman has done a bad thing by wasting this ointment!"

Matthew 26:9

This could have been sold for a large amount and given to the poor

"She could have sold this for a large amount of money and given the money to poor people"

Matthew 26:10

Why are you causing trouble for this woman?

"You should not be causing trouble for this woman!"

Why are you

All occurrences of "you" are plural and refer to the disciples.

Matthew 26:13

Truly I say to you

"I tell you the truth." This adds emphasis to what Jesus says next.

wherever this good news is preached

"wherever people preach this good news"

what this woman has done will also be spoken of in memory of her

"they will remember what this woman has done and will tell others about her" or "people will remember what this woman has done and will tell others about her"

Matthew 26:15

thirty pieces of silver

Since these words are the same as those in an Old Testament prophecy, keep this form instead of changing it to modern money.

Matthew 26:17

Now

This word is used here to mark a new part of the story.

Matthew 26:18

He said, "Go into the city to a certain man and say to him, 'The Teacher says, "My time is at hand. I will keep the Passover at your house with my disciples."'"

"He told his disciples to go into the city to a certain man and tell him that the Teacher says to him, 'My time is at hand. I will keep the Passover at your house with my disciples.'" or "He told his disciples to go into the city to a certain man and say to him that the Teacher's time is at hand and he will keep the Passover with his disciples at that man's house."

My time

Possible meanings are 1) "The time that I told you about" or 2) "The time God has set for me."

is at hand

Possible meanings are 1) "is near" or 2) "has come."

keep the Passover

"eat the Passover meal" or "celebrate the Passover by eating the special meal"

Matthew 26:21

Truly I say to you

"I tell you the truth." This adds emphasis to what Jesus says next.

Matthew 26:22

Surely not I, Lord?

"Lord, I would never betray you!" or 2) this was a sincere question since Jesus's statement probably troubled and confused them.

Matthew 26:24

The Son of Man

Jesus is speaking about himself.

will go

"will go to his death" or "will die"

just as it is written about him

"just as the prophets wrote about him in the scriptures"

that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed

"the man who betrays the Son of Man"

Matthew 26:25

Is it I, Rabbi?

"Rabbi, surely I am not the one who will betray you."

You have said it yourself

"You are saying it" or "You are admitting it"

Matthew 26:27

a cup

Here "cup" refers to the cup and the wine in it.

gave it to them

"gave it to the disciples"

Drink it

"Drink the wine from this cup"

Matthew 26:28

For this is my blood

"For this wine is my blood"

blood of the covenant

"blood that shows that the covenant is in effect" or "blood that makes the covenant possible"

is poured out

"will soon flow out of my body" or "will flow out of my wounds when I die"

Matthew 26:29

I say to you

This adds emphasis to what Jesus says next.

fruit of the vine

"wine"

in my Father's kingdom

"when my Father establishes his rule on earth"

my Father's

This refers to God the Father. It is best to translate “Father” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human father.

Matthew 26:30

hymn

a song of praise to God

Matthew 26:31

fall away

"leave me"

for it is written

"for the prophet Zechariah wrote long ago in the scriptures"

I will strike

Here "I" refers to God. It is implied that God will cause or allow people to harm and kill Jesus.

the shepherd ... sheep of the flock

This refers to Jesus and the disciples.

the sheep of the flock will be scattered

"they will scatter all the sheep of the flock" or "the sheep of the flock will run off in all directions"

Matthew 26:32

after I am raised up

"after God raises me up" or "after God brings me back to life"

Matthew 26:34

Truly I say to you

"I tell you the truth." This adds emphasis to what Jesus says next.

rooster

a male chicken, a bird that calls out loudly around the time the sun comes up

crows

This is the common English word for what a rooster does to make his loud call.

you will deny me three times

"you will say three times that you are not my follower"

Matthew 26:38

My soul is deeply sorrowful

"I am very sad"

even to death

"and I feel as if I could even die"

Matthew 26:39

fell on his face

He purposely lay face down on the ground to pray.

My Father

This refers to God the Father. It is best to translate “Father” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human father.

let this cup pass from me

Jesus speaks of the work that he must do, including dying on the cross, as if it were a bitter liquid that God has commanded him to drink from a cup. The word "cup" is an important word in the New Testament, so try to use an equivalent for that in your translation.

this cup

Jesus is asking the Father if it is possible for him not to have to experience the death and suffering that Jesus knows will soon happen.

Yet, not as I will, but as you will

"But do not do what I want; instead, do what you want"

Matthew 26:40

What, could you not watch with me for one hour?

"I am disappointed that you could not stay awake with me for one hour!"

Matthew 26:41

you do not enter into temptation

"no one tempts you to sin"

The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak

Jesus means that the disciples may have the desire to do what God wants, but as humans they are weak and often fail.

Matthew 26:42

My Father

This refers to God the Father. It is best to translate “Father” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human father.

if this cannot pass away unless I drink it

"if the only way this can pass away is if I drink it." Jesus speaks of the work that he must do as if it were a bitter liquid that God has commanded him to drink.

if this

Here "this" refers to the cup and the contents within it, a metaphor for suffering.

your will be done

"may what you want happen" or "do what you want to do"

Matthew 26:43

their eyes were heavy

"they were very sleepy"

Matthew 26:45

Are you still sleeping and taking your rest?

"I am disappointed that you are still sleeping and resting!"

the hour is at hand

"the time has come"

the Son of Man is being betrayed

"someone is betraying the Son of Man"

the Son of Man

Jesus is speaking about himself.

betrayed into the hands of sinners

"betrayed into the power of sinners" or "betrayed so that sinners will have power over him"

Look

"Pay attention to what I am about to tell you"

Matthew 26:47

clubs

large pieces of hard wood for hitting people

Matthew 26:48

saying, "The one I kiss is the man. Seize him."

"saying that the one he kissed was the one they should seize."

Matthew 26:49

he came up to Jesus

"Judas came up to Jesus"

kissed him

"met him with a kiss." Good friends would kiss each other on the cheek, but a disciple would probably kiss his master on the hand to show respect. No one knows for sure how Judas kissed Jesus.

Matthew 26:50

laid hands on Jesus, and seized him

"grabbed Jesus, and arrested him"

Matthew 26:51

Behold

The word "behold" here alerts us to pay attention to the surprising information that follows.

Matthew 26:52

who take up the sword

"who pick up a sword to kill others" or "who want to kill other people"

sword will perish by the sword

"sword will die by means of the sword" or "sword—it is with the sword that someone will kill them"

Matthew 26:53

Do you think that I could not call ... angels?

"Surely you know that I could call ... angels."

Do you think

Here "you" is singular and refers to the person with the sword.

my Father

This refers to God the Father. It is best to translate “Father” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human father.

more than twelve legions of angels

"more than 12 really large groups of angels"

Matthew 26:54

But how then would the scriptures be fulfilled, that this must happen?

"But if I did that, I would not be able to fulfill what God said in the scriptures must happen"

Matthew 26:55

Have you come out with swords and clubs to seize me like a robber?

"You know that I am not a robber, so it is wrong for you to come out to me bringing swords and clubs"

in the temple

It is implied that Jesus was not in the actual temple. He was in the courtyard around the temple.

Matthew 26:56

the writings of the prophets might be fulfilled

"I would fulfill all that the prophets wrote in the scriptures"

abandoned him

"left him." If your language has a word that means they left him when they should have stayed with him, use it here.

Matthew 26:58

Peter followed him

"Peter followed Jesus"

courtyard of the high priest

an open area near the high priest's house

the officers

These were probably the servants of the "scribes and elders"

Matthew 26:59

Now

This word is used here to mark a new part of the story.

so that they

Here "they" refers to the chief priests and the members of the council.

might put him to death

"might have a reason to execute him"

Matthew 26:60

two came forward

"two men came forward" or "two witnesses came forward"

Matthew 26:61

This man said, 'I am able to destroy ... days.'

"This man said that he is able to destroy ... days."

This man said

"This man Jesus said"

Matthew 26:62

What is it that they are testifying against you?

"What is your response to what the witnesses are testifying against you?"

Matthew 26:63

Son of God

This refers to Jesus, the Son of God. It is best to translate “Son” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human son.

the living God

Here "living" contrasts the God of Israel to all the false gods and idols that people worshiped. Only the God of Israel is alive and has power to act. See how you translated this in Matthew 16:16.

Matthew 26:64

You have said it yourself

"You are saying it" or "You are admitting it"

But I tell you, from now on you

Here "you" is plural. Jesus is speaking to the high priest and to the other persons there.

from now on you will see the Son of Man

Possible meanings are 1) the phrase "from now on" means they will see the Son of Man in his power at some time in the future or 2) the phrase "from now on" means that from the time of Jesus's trial and onward, Jesus is showing himself to be the Messiah who is powerful and victorious.

the Son of Man

Jesus is speaking about himself.

sitting at the right hand of Power

"sitting in the place of honor beside the all-powerful God"

coming on the clouds of heaven

"riding to earth on the clouds of heaven"

Matthew 26:65

the high priest tore his clothes

Tearing clothing was a sign of anger and sadness.

He has spoken blasphemy

The reason the high priest called Jesus's statement blasphemy is probably that he understood Jesus's words in Matthew 26:64 as a claim to be equal with God.

Why do we still need witnesses?

"We do not need to hear from any more witnesses!"

now you have heard

Here "you" is plural and refers to the members of the council.

Matthew 26:67

Then they

Possible meanings are 1) "Then some of the men" or 2) "Then the soldiers."

spit in his face

This was done as an insult.

Matthew 26:68

Prophesy to us

Here "Prophesy to us" means to tell by means of God's power. It does not mean to tell what will happen in the future.

you Christ

Those hitting Jesus do not really think he is the Christ. They call him this to mock him.

Matthew 26:70

I do not know what you are talking about

Peter was able to understand what the servant girl was saying. He used these words to deny that he had been with Jesus.

Matthew 26:71

gateway

opening in the wall around a courtyard

said to those there

"said to the people who were sitting there"

Matthew 26:72

He again denied it with an oath

"He denied it again by swearing"

Matthew 26:73

one of them, for the way you speak gives you away

"one of them. We can tell you are from Galilee because you speak like a Galilean"

Matthew 26:74

to curse

"to call down a curse on himself"

Matthew 26:75

Peter remembered the words that Jesus had said, "Before the rooster crows you will deny me three times."

"Peter remembered that Jesus told him that before the rooster crowed, he would deny Jesus three times."

Chapter 27

¹ Now when morning came, all the chief priests and elders of the people plotted against Jesus to put him to death. ² They bound him, led him away, and delivered him to Pilate the governor.

³ Then when Judas, who had betrayed him, saw that Jesus had been condemned, he repented and returned the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, ⁴ and said, "I have sinned by betraying innocent blood."

But they said, "What is that to us? See to that yourself."

⁵ Then he threw down the pieces of silver in the temple, and departed, and went out and hanged himself.

⁶ The chief priests took the pieces of silver and said, "It is not lawful to put this into the treasury because it is the price of blood." ⁷ They discussed the matter together, and they bought with the money the potter's field in which to bury strangers. ⁸ For this reason that field has been called, "The Field of Blood" to this day.

⁹ Then that which had been spoken by Jeremiah the prophet was fulfilled, saying, "They took the thirty pieces of silver, the price set on him by the sons of Israel, ¹⁰ and they gave it for the potter's field, as the Lord had directed me."

¹¹ Now Jesus stood before the governor, and the governor asked him, "Are you the King of the Jews?"

Jesus answered him, "You say so."

¹² But when he was accused by the chief priests and elders, he answered nothing. ¹³ Then Pilate said to him, "Do you not hear how many things they accuse you of?" ¹⁴ But he did not answer even one word, so that the governor was greatly amazed.

¹⁵ Now at the festival it was the custom of the governor to set free one prisoner chosen by the crowd. ¹⁶ At that time they had a notorious prisoner named Jesus Barabbas. ¹

¹⁷ So when they were gathered together, Pilate said to them, "Who do you want me to set free for you? Barabbas, or Jesus who is called Christ?" ¹⁸ He knew that they had handed Jesus over to him because of envy.

¹⁹ While he was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent word to him and said, "Have nothing to do with that innocent man. For I have suffered much today because of a dream I had about him."

²⁰ Now the chief priests and the elders persuaded the crowd that they should ask for Barabbas and destroy Jesus. ²¹ The governor asked them, "Which of the two do you want me to set free for you?"

They said, "Barabbas."

²² Pilate said to them, "What should I do with Jesus who is called Christ?"

They all answered, "Crucify him."

²³ Then he said, "Why, what evil has he done?"

But they cried out even louder, "Crucify him."

²⁴ So when Pilate saw that he was gaining nothing, but instead a riot was starting, he took water, washed his hands in front of the crowd, and said, "I am innocent of the blood of this man. You see to it."

²⁵ All the people said, "May his blood be on us and our children." ²⁶ Then he set Barabbas free for them, but he scourged Jesus and handed him over to be crucified.

²⁷ Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the government headquarters and they gathered the whole company of soldiers. ²⁸ They stripped him and put a scarlet robe on him. ²⁹ They made a crown of thorns and put it on his head, and placed a staff in his right hand. They knelt down before him and mocked him, saying, "Hail, King of the Jews!"

³⁰ They spat on him, and they took the staff and struck him on the head again and again. ³¹ When they had mocked him, they took the robe off him and put his own garments on him, and led him away to crucify him.

³² As they came out, they found a man from Cyrene named Simon, whom they forced to go with them so that he might carry his cross. ³³ They came to a place called Golgotha, which means "The Place of a Skull." ³⁴ They gave him wine to drink mixed with gall. But when he tasted it, he would not drink.

³⁵ When they had crucified him, they divided up his garments by casting lots, ³⁶ and they sat and kept guard over him. ³⁷ Above his head they put the charge against him, which read, "This is Jesus, the king of the Jews."

³⁸ Two robbers were crucified with him, one on the right of him and one on the left. ³⁹ Those who passed by insulted him, shaking their heads ⁴⁰ and saying, "You who were going to destroy the temple and rebuild it in three days, save yourself! If you are the Son of God, come down from the cross!"

⁴¹ In the same way the chief priests were mocking him, along with the scribes and elders, and said, ⁴² "He saved others, but he cannot save himself. He is the King of Israel. Let him come down off the cross, and then we will believe in him.

⁴³ He trusts in God, let God rescue him now, if God consents to release him. For he even said, 'I am the Son of God.'" ⁴⁴ In the same way the robbers who were crucified with him also insulted him.

⁴⁵ Now from the sixth hour darkness came over the whole land until the ninth hour. ⁴⁶ About the ninth hour, Jesus cried with a loud voice and said, "Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?" which means, "My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?"

⁴⁷ When some of those who were standing there heard it, they said, "He is calling for Elijah."

⁴⁸ Immediately one of them ran and took a sponge, filled it with sour wine, put it on a reed staff, and gave it to him to drink. ⁴⁹ The rest of them said, "Leave him alone. Let us see whether Elijah comes to save him." ⁵⁰ Then Jesus cried out again with a loud voice and gave up his spirit.

⁵¹ Behold, the curtain of the temple was split in two from the top to the bottom, and the earth shook, and the rocks split apart. ⁵² The tombs were opened, and the bodies of the holy people who had fallen asleep were raised. ⁵³ They came out of the tombs after his resurrection, entered the holy city, and appeared to many.

⁵⁴ Now when the centurion and those who were watching Jesus saw the earthquake and the things that had happened, they became very afraid and said, "Truly this was the Son of God." ⁵⁵ Many women who had followed Jesus from Galilee to attend to his needs were there watching from a distance. ⁵⁶ Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of the sons of Zebedee.

⁵⁷ When it was evening, there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who was also a disciple of Jesus. ⁵⁸ He approached Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. Then Pilate ordered it to be given to him.

⁵⁹ Joseph took the body, wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, ⁶⁰ and laid it in his own new tomb that he had cut into the rock. Then he rolled a large stone against the door of the tomb and went away. ⁶¹ Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were there, sitting opposite the tomb.

⁶² The next day, which was the day after the Preparation, the chief priests and the Pharisees were gathered together with Pilate. ⁶³ They said, "Sir, we remember that when that deceiver was alive, he said, 'After three days will I rise again.' ⁶⁴ Therefore command that the tomb be made secure until the third day, otherwise his disciples may come and steal him and say to the people, 'He has risen from the dead,' and the last deception will be worse than the first."

⁶⁵ Pilate said to them, "Take a guard. Go and make it as secure as you know how." ⁶⁶ So they went and made the tomb secure, sealing the stone and placing the guard.

¹Many ancient copies do not have Jesus .

Matthew 27

27:1-10

Why did the Jewish leaders plot to kill Jesus?

[27:1]

The Jewish leaders plotted to kill Jesus because they believed that he broke the Law of Moses and should be killed. However, he did not break the Law of Moses.

See: Law of Moses; Chief Priest; Elder

Why did the Jewish leaders take Jesus to Pilate?

[27:2]

Pilate was the Roman governor in charge of the Jews. The Jews took Jesus to Pilate because they could not kill anyone without the Pilate giving them permission to do it. The Jews who were there wanted to kill Jesus.

See: Palace; Crucify (Crucifixion)

How was someone condemned?

[27:3]

See: Condemn (Condemnation)

Why did Judas repent?

[27:3, 27:4]

Judas saw that the Jewish leaders were trying to kill Jesus. Because of this, he repented of what he did. That is, he wished that he had not helped the Jewish leaders to capture Jesus. He tried to give them the money back that these leaders gave to him. He knew that he did something wrong and that Jesus would be killed even though Jesus did not do anything wrong.

See: Repent (Repentance); Blood

Why did the chief priest buy the field with the money?

[27:7]

The chief priests did not want the money back they gave to Judas. This is because the money had been used to help to kill Jesus. This was irony. That was because they had used the money, which was considered blood money that was given to Judas, to purchase a field that was known as the “field of blood.”

See: Jeremiah 19:1-11; Zechariah 11:12-13

See: Irony; Chief Priest

Advice to translators: Blood money is money that someone made for killing someone else or helping to kill another person.

27:11-31

What was meant by Jesus’ answer to Pilate, saying, “You say so”?

[27:11]

Jesus said, “You say so.” Some scholars think this was a way of saying, “what you are saying is true.” Other scholars think Jesus was saying that Pilate was correct in what he said, but that he did not truly understand the meaning of what he said. Why did Jesus not say anything to Pilate about the charges against him?

Jesus did not say anything to Pilate because Jesus did not do anything wrong. Jesus also knew that Jesus needed to die for people’s sins. This also fulfilled a prophecy of Isaiah (see: Isaiah 53:7). This made Pilate think that Jesus was not guilty of the things the Jewish leaders accused him.

See: Sin; Atone (Atonement); Fulfill (Fulfillment); Prophecy (Prophesy)

What was the feast about which Matthew spoke?

[27:15]

Matthew spoke about a feast known as the feast of the Passover.

See: Passover

Who did Pilate want the people to release from prison?

Pilate did not think Jesus was guilty. However, he did not want to anger the Jewish leaders. Therefore, he tried to get the people to set Jesus free. However, they did not want Jesus to live. Instead, they wanted Pilate to release a murderer. They told Pilate to kill Jesus.

What was the name of the prisoner?

[27:16]

In some ancient copies of the Greek New Testament, Matthew said the prisoner was named “Jesus Barabbas.” In other ancient copies of the Greek New Testament, Matthew said the prisoner was named “Barabbas.” Scholars think Matthew wrote “Jesus Barabbas.”

See: Differences in the Ancient Copies of the Bible

Why were the Jewish leaders envious of Jesus?

Some scholars think the Jewish leaders were envious of Jesus because they wanted to be honored and loved by the people the way the people loved Jesus. Or perhaps they wanted to know as much about the Law of Moses as Jesus knew.

See: Law of Moses

Why was Jesus called the Christ?

[27:17]

Jesus was called the Christ because he was the Messiah.

See: Messiah (Christ)

What was a judgment seat?

[27:19]

Pilate’s judgment seat was a seat on a raised platform from which he decided certain things. He could punish people or set them free.

See: Ancient Trials (Lawsuit); Punish (Punishment)

Why did Pilate release a prisoner?

[27:22, 27:23]

In ancient Israel, the Roman leader would release a prisoner during the Jewish passover festival. This helped there to be peace between the Romans and the Jews.

See: Passover

How was someone crucified?

[27:23]

See: Crucify (Crucifixion)

Why did Pilate wash his hands?

[27:24]

Pilate washed his hands. This was a symbol. He wanted them to know that they were the reason that Jesus was going to die. He wanted to tell them that he was not guilty of Jesus’ death. The people were willing to be punished if they were wrong about Jesus because they wanted to see Jesus killed.

See: Symbol; Clean and Unclean; Blood; Punish (Punishment)

How many soldiers were in a company?

[27:27]

In a company, there were 600 soldiers.

Why did the soldiers dress Jesus the way they did?

[27:28]

The soldiers put a scarlet robe on Jesus. This is what a king would have worn. They put a crown on him. A king wore a crown. However, this crown was made of branches with thorns. It would have been painful to wear. Kings also had a staff. The soldiers did not think Jesus was a king. Instead, they insulted him and pretended that he was a king. They removed these pieces of clothes before they took him to be crucified.

See: Crucify (Crucifixion)

27:32-45

Where was Cyrene?

[27:32]

See Map: Cyrene

Why did Simon carry Jesus’ cross?

[27:32]

The soldiers made a man named Simon carry Jesus’ cross. This is because Jesus was not strong enough to carry it after he was beaten.

See: Cross

Where was Golgotha?

[27:33]

Golgotha was a place outside of the wall of the city of Jerusalem. In English, this place is often called “calvary.” It was a mound that looked like a person’s skull.

Why did the soldiers offer Jesus wine mixed with myrrh?

[27:34]

The soldiers offered Jesus something to drink. People thought that this would stop pain. However, he did not want to do this.

What was casting lots?

[27:35]

See: Cast Lots

Why did the soldiers make a sign?

[27:37]

The soldiers made a sign. This signed told people that he was killed for saying that he was the king of the Jews. When they did this, they mocked Jesus. However, they did not know that Jesus was the king of the Jews.

How did the people mock Jesus?

[29:39, 29:40]

People saw Jesus on the cross and they mocked him. Jesus prophesied that he would rebuild the temple in three days. They thought he was speaking about the temple in Jerusalem. This was a metaphor. He was speaking about dying and being resurrected. They told him to save himself. This was irony. He was dying to save them.

See: Cross; Prophecy (Prophesy) ; Temple; Resurrect (Resurrection) ; Save (Salvation, Saved from Sins); Irony; Atone (Atonement); Son of God; Metaphor

How did the Jewish leaders mock Jesus?

[27:41, 27:42]

The Jewish leaders mocked Jesus in the same way the people did. They wanted Jesus to do something to prove he was the Messiah. However, he did not do this. Perhaps this is because they would not have believed in Jesus even if he did this. This was also an irony. They say he saved others, but he could not save himself. Jesus did save other people by dying for them. He saved those who believe in him by dying for their sins. They said God would save him if God sent him, but they did not know that God sent him to die. Jesus died obeying God.

See: Messiah (Christ); Irony; Save (Salvation, Saved from Sins); Atone (Atonement)

27:45-56

When was the sixth hour?

[27:45]

The sixth hour was about noon.

When was the ninth hour?

[27:46]

The ninth hour was about 3pm.

Why did Jesus say the things he did?

[27:46]

As Jesus died, people’s sins were put on him in some way. He was separated from God for the first time. This is why he said that God forsook him.

See: Sin; Atone (Atonement)

Why did people think Jesus was calling for Elijah?

[27:47]

When Jesus said, “Eli,” the people thought they heard Jesus calling to Elijah.

Why did someone try to give Jesus sour wine?

[27:48]

One soldier tried to give Jesus sour wine. Perhaps he thought this would help to Jesus not be in as much pain. He tried to help Jesus. However, the other soldiers wanted to make Jesus live longer so they could see if Elijah came to help him. He did this to mock Jesus.

How did Jesus give up his spirit?

[27:50]

When Matthew said Jesus gave up his spirit, he was saying that Jesus died.

See: Spirit (Spiritual)

Why was the curtain in the temple split into two pieces?

[27:52]

In the temple, there was a curtain that separated the holiest place from everything else. It was the place where the high priest went once a year offer a sacrifice to God. God was in this place in a certain way. The curtain was so big and thick that it could not be torn. When Jesus died, it tore. This was a metaphor. When the curtain tore, it showed there was no longer anything that separated people from God.

See:Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies); High Priest; Offer (Offering); Sacrifice; Metaphor; Temple; Presence of God

How were people resurrected?

[27:52]

Matthew wrote that there was an earthquake in Jerusalem. At this time, many dead people were resurrected. These were Jews who believed in God and were at peace with God. Some scholars think this happened to show that the death of Jesus broke the power of death itself.

See: Resurrect (Resurrection) ; Holy Ones

Why did the Roman soldier think that Jesus was the Son of God?

[27:54]

From the events that happened at Jesus’ death, the Roman soldier believed Jesus was the Son of God. Some scholars think that the soldier declaring Jesus to be the Son of God showed Jesus’ innocence and the guilt of the people. Other scholars think that he said that Jesus was a very great man whom God blessed. Matthew wanted people to think about how the Roman soldier believed the truth about Jesus and the Jewish leaders did not.

See: Son of God; Bless (Blessing)

Where was Galilee?

[27:55]

See Map: Galilee

Who were the sons of Zebedee?

[27:56]

See: Matthew 4:21

27:57-66

Where was Arimathea?

[27:57]

See Map: Arimathea

How was Joseph a disciple of Jesus?

[27:57]

Joseph was a pharisee and also a disciple of Jesus. That is, he believed in Jesus.

See: Disciple; Pharisees

Why did Joseph of Arimathea ask for Jesus’ body?

[27:58]

Joseph of Arimathea asked Pilate for Jesus’ body. He was a Jew. According to the Law of Moses, a dead body needed to be buried before the sun set, especially if the Sabbath was the next day.

See: Deuteronomy 21:23

See: Law of Moses; Sabbath

Why did Joseph wrap the body in clean linen cloth?

[27:59]

Joseph wrapped Jesus’ body in clean linen cloth. He did this to prepare Jesus’ body to be buried.

Why did Joseph put the body of Jesus in a new tomb?

[27:60]

Joseph put the body of Jesus in a new tomb because it honored Jesus. There was no odor of death or decay. Usually a tomb held several bodies. After a year, the bones were placed in a box.

See: Tomb

Who was the other Mary?

[27:61]

See: Matthew 27:56

What was the Day of Preparation?

[27:62]

The Damby of Preparation was the time to prepare for the Sabbath. It was the day before the Sabbath. It began on Thursday evening and lasted until Friday evening. People cleaned houses, bought supplies, and cooked food so that they did no work on the Sabbath.

See: Sabbath

Who were the chief priests and pharisees?

[27:63]

See: Chief Priest; Pharisees

Who was the deceiver?

[27:63]

The Jewish leaders spoke about a deceiver. They were speaking about Jesus. They thought that Jesus deceived people. That is, he lied to people. The Jewish leaders thought the disciples would also try to steal Jesus’ body so they could deceive people.

How was someone raised from the dead?

[27:64]

See: Resurrect (Resurrection)

Matthew 27:1

plotted against Jesus to put him to death

The Jewish leaders were planning how they could convince the Roman leaders to kill Jesus.

Matthew 27:3

Then when Judas

If your language has a way of showing that a new story is starting, you may want to use that here.

that Jesus had been condemned

"that the Jewish leaders had condemned Jesus"

the thirty pieces of silver

This was the money that the chief priests had given Judas to betray Jesus.

Matthew 27:4

innocent blood

"a person who does not deserve to die"

What is that to us?

"That is not our problem!" or "That is your problem!"

Matthew 27:5

threw down the pieces of silver in the temple

Possible meanings are 1) he threw the pieces of silver while in the temple courtyard, or 2) he was standing in the temple courtyard, and he threw the pieces of silver into the temple.

Matthew 27:6

It is not lawful to put this

"Our laws do not allow us to put this"

put this

"put this silver"

the treasury

This is the place they kept the money they used to provide for things needed for the temple and the priests.

price of blood

"money paid for a man to die"

Matthew 27:7

potter's field

This was a field that was bought to bury strangers who died in Jerusalem.

Matthew 27:8

to this day

This means to the time that Matthew is writing this book.

Matthew 27:9

Then that which had been spoken by Jeremiah the prophet was fulfilled

"This fulfilled what the prophet Jeremiah spoke"

the price set on him by the sons of Israel

"the price the sons of Israel set on him"

the sons of Israel

"some of the descendants of Israel" or "the leaders of Israel"

Matthew 27:10

directed me

Here "me" refers to Jeremiah.

Matthew 27:11

Now

The word "Now" is used here to mark a return to the main events of the story.

the governor

"Pilate"

You say so

"Yes, as you said, I am" or "Yes. It is as you said" or 2) by saying this, Jesus was saying that Pilate, not Jesus, was the one calling him the King of the Jews.

Matthew 27:12

But when he was accused by the chief priests and elders

"But when the chief priests and elders accused him"

Matthew 27:13

Do you not hear how many things they accuse you of?

"I am surprised that you do not answer these people who accuse you of doing so many bad things!"

Matthew 27:14

did not answer even one word, so that the governor was greatly amazed

Jesus was completely silent.

Matthew 27:15

the festival

This is the Passover celebration.

prisoner chosen by the crowd

"prisoner whom the crowd would choose"

Matthew 27:16

they had a notorious prisoner

"there was a prisoner who was well known for doing something bad"

Matthew 27:17

they were gathered

"the crowd gathered"

Jesus who is called Christ

"whom some people call the Christ"

Matthew 27:18

they had handed Jesus over to him

"the Jewish leaders had brought Jesus to him." They had done this so that Pilate would judge Jesus.

Matthew 27:19

While he was sitting on the judgment seat

"While Pilate was sitting in the place where a judge would sit while making a decision."

sent word

"sent a message"

I have suffered much today

"I have been very upset today"

Matthew 27:20

Now ... destroy Jesus

Here "Now" is used to mark a pause in the story. Matthew tells background information about why the crowd chose Barabbas.

they should ask for Barabbas and destroy Jesus

"they should ask Pilate to release Jesus and tell him to have his soldiers kill Jesus"

Matthew 27:21

asked them

"asked the crowd"

Matthew 27:22

who is called Christ

"whom some people call the Christ"

Matthew 27:23

has he done

"has Jesus done"

they cried out

"the crowd cried out"

Matthew 27:24

he was gaining nothing

"he was doing no good" or "he was unable to convince the people"

washed his hands in front of the crowd

Pilate does this as a sign that he is not responsible for Jesus's death.

the blood

"the death"

You see to it

"This is your responsibility."

Matthew 27:25

May his blood be on us and our children

"Yes! We and our descendants will be responsible for executing him"

Matthew 27:26

Then he set Barabbas free for them

Possible meanings are 1) Pilate set Barabbas free because the crowd had asked him to or 2) Pilate released Barabbas and put him under the control of the crowd.

he scourged Jesus and handed him over to be crucified

"he ordered his soldiers to beat Jesus with a whip and to crucify him"

Matthew 27:28

stripped him

"pulled off his clothes"

scarlet

bright red

Matthew 27:29

a crown of thorns

"a crown from thorny branches" or "a crown from branches with thorns on them"

a staff in his right hand

They gave Jesus a stick to hold to represent a scepter that a king holds. They did this to mock Jesus.

Hail, King of the Jews

They were saying this to mock Jesus. They were calling Jesus "King of the Jews," but they did not really believe he was a king. And yet what they were saying was true.

Hail

"We honor you" or "May you live a long time"

Matthew 27:30

They spat on him

The past tense of the verb "spit" can be either "spit" or "spat."

Matthew 27:32

As they came out

"As they came out of Jerusalem"

they found a man

"the soldiers saw a man"

whom they forced to go with them so that he might carry his cross

"whom the soldiers forced to go with them so that he could carry Jesus's cross"

Matthew 27:33

place called Golgotha

"place that people called Golgotha"

Matthew 27:34

gall

Gall is the bitter yellow liquid that bodies use in digestion. The people were mocking Jesus by mixing it with the wine and so making the wine undrinkable.

Matthew 27:35

his garments

These were the clothes Jesus had been wearing.

Matthew 27:37

the charge against him

"a written explanation of why he was being crucified"

Matthew 27:38

Two robbers were crucified with him

"The soldiers crucified two robbers with Jesus"

Matthew 27:39

shaking their heads

They did this to make fun of Jesus.

Matthew 27:40

If you are the Son of God, come down from the cross

"If you are the Son of God, prove it by coming down from the cross"

the Son of God

This refers to Jesus, the Son of God. It is best to translate “Son” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human son.

Matthew 27:42

He saved others, but he cannot save himself

Possible meanings are 1) the Jewish leaders do not believe that Jesus saved others or that he can save himself, or 2) they believe he did save others but are laughing at him because now he cannot save himself.

He is the King of Israel

"He says that he is the King of Israel"

Matthew 27:43

For he even said, 'I am the Son of God.'

"For Jesus even said that he is the Son of God."

Son of God

This refers to Jesus, the Son of God. It is best to translate “Son” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human son.

Matthew 27:44

the robbers who were crucified with him

"the robbers that the soldiers crucified with Jesus"

Matthew 27:45

from the sixth hour ... until the ninth hour

"from about noon ... for three hours" or "from about twelve o'clock midday ... until about three o'clock in the afternoon"

darkness came over the whole land

"it became dark over the whole land"

Matthew 27:46

Jesus cried

"Jesus called out" or "Jesus shouted"

Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani

These words are what Jesus cried out in his own language. Translators usually leave these words as they are.

Matthew 27:48

one of them

Possible meanings are 1) one of the soldiers or 2) one of those who stood by and watched.

sponge

This is a sea animal that is harvested and used to take up and hold liquids. These liquids can later be pushed out.

Matthew 27:50

gave up his spirit

"he died, giving his spirit over to God" or "he breathed his last breath"

Matthew 27:51

Behold

The word "behold" here alerts us to pay attention to the surprising information that follows.

the curtain of the temple was split in two

"the curtain of the temple tore in two" or "God caused the curtain of the temple to tear in two"

Matthew 27:52

The tombs were opened, and the bodies of the holy people who had fallen asleep were raised

"God opened the tombs and made many godly people who had died become alive again"

Matthew 27:53

They came out ... appeared to many

After the earthquake when Jesus died and the tombs were opened 1) the holy people came back to life, and then, after Jesus came back to life, the holy people entered Jerusalem, where many people saw them, or 2) Jesus came back to life, and then the holy ones came back to life and entered the city, where many people saw them.

Matthew 27:54

those who were watching Jesus

"the other soldiers with him who were guarding Jesus"

Son of God

This refers to Jesus, the Son of God. It is best to translate “Son” with the same word that your language uses to refer to a human son.

Matthew 27:57

Connecting Statement:

This begins the account of Jesus's burial.

Arimathea

This is the name of a city in Israel.

Matthew 27:58

Then Pilate ordered it to be given to him

"Then Pilate ordered the soldiers to give the body of Jesus to Joseph"

Matthew 27:59

linen

a fine, costly cloth

Matthew 27:60

that he had cut into the rock

It is implied that Joseph had workers who cut the tomb into the rock.

Matthew 27:61

opposite the tomb

"across from the tomb"

Matthew 27:62

the Preparation

This is the day that people got everything ready for the Sabbath.

were gathered together with Pilate

"they met with Pilate"

Matthew 27:63

he said, 'After three days will I rise again.'

"when Jesus, the deceiver, was alive he said that after three days he will rise again." or "he said that after three day he would rise again."

Matthew 27:64

command that the tomb be made secure

"command your soldiers to guard the tomb"

his disciples may come and steal him ... say to the people, 'He has risen from the dead,' and

"his disciples may ... tell the people that he has risen from the dead, and"

from the dead

From among all those who have died. The expression "the dead" describes all dead people together in the underworld. To rise from among them speaks of becoming alive again.

and the last deception will be worse than the first

"and if they deceive people by saying that, it will be worse than the way he deceived people before when he said that he was the Christ"

Matthew 27:65

a guard

This consisted of four to sixteen Roman soldiers.

Matthew 27:66

sealing the stone

Possible meanings are 1) they put a cord around the stone and attached it with seals to the rock wall on either side of the entrance to the tomb or 2) they put seals between the stone and the wall.

placing the guard

"telling the soldiers to stand where they could keep people from tampering with the tomb"

Chapter 28

¹ Now after the Sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to see the tomb. ² Behold, there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven, came and rolled away the stone, and sat on it.

³ His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing as white as snow. ⁴ The guards shook with fear and became like dead men.

⁵ The angel addressed the women and said to them, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus, who has been crucified. ⁶ He is not here, but is risen, just as he said. Come see the place where the Lord was lying. ⁷ Go quickly and tell his disciples, 'He has risen from the dead. See, he is going ahead of you to Galilee. There you will see him.' See, I have told you."

⁸ The women quickly left the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. ⁹ Behold, Jesus met them and said, "Greetings!" The women came, took hold of his feet and worshiped him. ¹⁰ Then Jesus said to them, "Do not be afraid. Go tell my brothers to leave for Galilee. There they will see me."

¹¹ Now while the women were going, behold, some of the guards went into the city and told the chief priests all the things that had happened. ¹² When the priests had met with the elders and discussed the matter with them, they gave a large amount of money to the soldiers ¹³ and told them, "Say to others, 'The disciples of Jesus came by night and stole his body while we were sleeping.'

¹⁴ If this report reaches the governor, we will persuade him and take any worries away from you." ¹⁵ So the soldiers took the money and did as they had been instructed. This report spread widely among the Jews and continues even today.

¹⁶ But the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. ¹⁷ When they saw him, they worshiped him, but some doubted.

¹⁸ Jesus came to them and spoke to them and said, "All authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth. ¹⁹ Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations. Baptize them into the name of the Father, of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

²⁰ Teach them to obey all the things that I have commanded you. See, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."

Matthew 28

28:1-10

What was the Sabbath?

[28:1]

See: Sabbath

What day was the first day of the week?

[28:1]

The Sabbath began on Friday at sunset and ended Saturday at sunset. The day after the Sabbath was the first day of the week. This day began on Saturday at sunset and ended on Sunday at sunset.

See: Sabbath

Why did the angel roll away the stone?

[28:2]

The angel rolled away the stone because it was very large.

See: Angel; Heaven

Why did the angel look the way he did?

[28:3]

The angel looked the way he did because he was holy. White was a symbol of someone or something being holy.

See: Angel; Holy (Holiness, Set Apart); White (symbol)

How was Jesus crucified?

[28:5]

See: Crucify (Crucifixion)

How was Jesus resurrected?

[28:5, 28:6]

The man in the tomb said that Jesus was risen. That is, Jesus was resurrected.

See: Resurrect (Resurrection)

Where was Galilee?

[28:7]

See Map: Galilee

What was worship?

[28:9]

See: Worship

28:11-20

Who were the chief priests and elders?

[28:11]

The chief priests and elders were Jewish leaders.

See: Chief Priest; Elder

Why did the Jewish leaders give money to the Roman soldiers?

[28:12]

The Jewish leaders gave money to the Roman soldiers to lie about what happened. They did not want people to know about what happened at the tomb.

Who were the eleven disciples?

[28:16]

Normally, there were twelve disciples. At this time, Judas was not a disciple anymore.

See: Disciple

What did God give to Jesus?

[28:18]

Jesus said that God gave him permission to do something. He gave him power to do things in heaven and on earth.

See: Heaven

How were the disciples to make disciples?

[28:19]

Jesus wanted the disciples to make other disciples. That is, he wanted them to tell people about Jesus and help them to believe in Jesus and to do things that honored God. They did this by going to different places, baptizing people who believed in Jesus, and teaching them how to live in a way that honored God.

See: Disciple; Baptize (Baptism)

How was Jesus with the disciples until the end of the age?

[28:20]

Jesus said that he would be with the disciples until the end of the age. Some scholars think Jesus would remain with them for a time on the earth after he was resurrected. He will help them to do the things he wanted them to do. Other scholars think Jesus wanted to say that he would be with every generation of Christians to help them do the things he wanted them to do.

See: Disciple; Resurrect (Resurrection) ; Generation

Matthew 28:1

Now after the Sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week

"After the Sabbath, as the sun began to come up Sunday morning"

the other Mary

"the other woman named Mary." This is Mary the mother of James and Joseph

Matthew 28:2

Behold

The word "behold" here alerts us to pay attention to the surprising information that follows. Your language may have a way of doing this.

there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord descended ... and rolled away the stone

Possible meanings are 1) the earthquake happened because the angel came down and rolled away the stone or 2) all these events happened at the same time.

earthquake

a sudden and violent shaking of the ground

Matthew 28:3

His appearance was like lightning

"The angel's appearance was bright like lightning"

his clothing as white as snow

"his clothing was very white, like snow"

Matthew 28:4

became like dead men

"fell to the ground and lay there like dead men"

Matthew 28:5

the women

"Mary Magdalene and the other woman named Mary"

who has been crucified

"whom the people and the soldiers crucified" or "whom they crucified"

Matthew 28:6

was lying

This means that Jesus's body was lying on the flat surface inside the tomb, not that Jesus was saying things that were not true.

Matthew 28:7

He has risen from the dead

"He has come back to life"

from the dead

From among all those who have died. The expression "the dead" describes all dead people together in the underworld. To rise from among them speaks of becoming alive again.

going ahead of you ... you will see him

Here "you" is plural. It refers to the women and the disciples.

I have told you

Here "you" is plural and refers to the women.

Matthew 28:8

The women

"Mary Magdalene and the other woman named Mary"

Matthew 28:9

Greetings

This is an ordinary greeting, much like "Hello" in English.

took hold of his feet

"got down on their knees and held onto his feet"

Matthew 28:10

my brothers

This refers to Jesus's disciples.

Matthew 28:12

discussed the matter with them

"decided on a plan among themselves." The priests and elders decided to give the money to the soldiers.

Matthew 28:13

Say to others, 'The disciples of Jesus came ... while we were sleeping.'

"Tell others that Jesus' disciples came ... while you were sleeping."

Matthew 28:14

If this report reaches the governor

"If the governor hears that you were asleep when Jesus's disciples took his body"

the governor

"Pilate"

we will persuade him and take any worries away from you

"do not worry. We will talk to him so that he does not punish you."

Matthew 28:15

did as they had been instructed

"did what the priests had told them to do"

This report spread widely among the Jews and continues even today

"Many Jews heard this report and continue to tell others about it even today"

Matthew 28:17

they worshiped him, but some doubted

Possible meanings are 1) they all worshiped Jesus even though some of them doubted, or 2) some of them worshiped Jesus, but others did not worship him because they doubted that he had become alive again.

Matthew 28:18

All authority has been given to me

"My Father has given me all authority over everyone and everything in heaven and on earth"

Matthew 28:19

of all the nations

"of the people in every nation"

into the name

"by the authority"

Father ... Son

Matthew 28:20

See

"Look" or "Listen" or "Pay attention to what I am about to tell you"

even to the end of the age

"until the end of this age" or "until the end of the world"

Translation Words

Abel

Facts:

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Abijah

Facts:

Abijah was a king of Judah who reigned from 915 to 913 B.C. He was a son of King Rehoboam. There were also several other men named Abijah in the Old Testament:

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Abraham

Related Words:

Facts:

Abram was a Chaldean man from the city of Ur who was chosen by God to be the forefather of the Israelites. God changed his name to "Abraham."

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Ahaz

Facts:

Ahaz was a wicked king who ruled over the kingdom of Judah from 732 BC to 716 BC. This was about 140 years before the time when many people in Israel and Judah were taken as captives to Babylonia.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Andrew

Facts:

Andrew was one of twelve men whom Jesus chose to be his closest disciples (later called apostles).

Bible References:

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

Asa

Facts:

Asa was a king who ruled over the kingdom of Judah for forty years, from 913 B.C. to 873 B.c.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Asa

Facts:

Asa was a king who ruled over the kingdom of Judah for forty years, from 913 B.C. to 873 B.c.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Babylon

Related Words:

Facts:

The city of Babylon was the capital of the ancient region of Babylonia, which was also part of the Babylonian Empire.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Barabbas

Facts:

Bible References:

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Bartholomew

Facts:

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Beelzebul

Facts:

Beelzebul is another name for Satan, or the devil. It is also sometimes spelled, "Beelzebub."

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Bethany

Facts:

The town of Bethany was located at the base of the eastern slope of the Mount of Olives, about 2 miles east of Jerusalem.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Bethlehem

Facts:

Bethlehem was a small city in the land of Israel, near the city of Jerusalem. It was also known as "Ephrathah," which was probably its original name.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Boaz

Facts:

Boaz was an Israelite man who was the husband of Ruth, the great grandfather of King David, and an ancestor of Jesus Christ.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Caesar

Related Words:

Facts:

The term "Caesar" was the name or title used by many of the rulers of the Roman Empire. In the Bible, this name refers to three different Roman rulers.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Caesarea

Related Words:

Facts:

Caesarea was an important city on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, about 39 km south of Mount Carmel. Caesarea Philippi was a city located in the northeastern part of Israel, near Mount Hermon.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Caiaphas

Facts:

Caiaphas was the high priest of Israel during the time of John the Baptist and Jesus.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Cana

Facts:

Cana was a village or town in the province of Galilee, located about nine miles north of Nazareth.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Canaan

Related Ideas:

Facts:

Canaan was the son of Ham, who was one of Noah's sons. The Canaanites were the descendants of Canaan.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Capernaum

Facts:

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Christ

Related Ideas:

Facts:

The terms "Messiah" and "Christ" mean "Anointed One" and refer to Jesus, God's Son.

Translation Suggestions:

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Cyrene

Related Ideas:

Facts:

Cyrene was a Greek city on the north coast of Africa on the Mediterranean Sea, directly south of the island of Crete.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Dan

Related Words:

Facts:

Dan was the fifth son of Jacob and was one of the twelve tribes of Israel.The region settled by the tribe of Dan in the northern part of Canaan also was given this name.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Dan

Related Words:

Facts:

Dan was the fifth son of Jacob and was one of the twelve tribes of Israel.The region settled by the tribe of Dan in the northern part of Canaan also was given this name.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Daniel

Facts:

Daniel was an Israelite prophet who as a young man was taken captive by the Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar around 600 BC.

Bible References:

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

David

Facts:

David was the second king of Israel and he loved and served God. He was the main writer of the book of Psalms.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

David

Facts:

David was the second king of Israel and he loved and served God. He was the main writer of the book of Psalms.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Egypt

Related Words:

Facts:

Egypt is a country in the northeast part of Africa, to the southwest of the land of Canaan. An Egyptian is a person who is from the country of Egypt.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Eleazar

Facts:

Bible References:

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

Eliakim

Facts:

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Eliakim

Facts:

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Elijah

Facts:

Elijah was one of the most important prophets of Yahweh. Elijah prophesied during the reigns of several kings of Israel and Judah, including King Ahab.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Elijah

Facts:

Elijah was one of the most important prophets of Yahweh. Elijah prophesied during the reigns of several kings of Israel and Judah, including King Ahab.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Eve

Facts:

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Gad

Related Words

Facts:

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Gad

Related Words

Facts:

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Galilee

Related Words:

Facts:

Galilee was the most northern region of Israel, just north of Samaria. A "Galilean" was a person who lived in Galilee or who lived in Galilee.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Galilee

Related Words:

Facts:

Galilee was the most northern region of Israel, just north of Samaria. A "Galilean" was a person who lived in Galilee or who lived in Galilee.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Gentile

Facts:

The term "Gentile" refers to anyone who is not a Jew. Gentiles are people who are not descendants of Jacob.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Gethsemane

Facts:

Gethsemane was a garden of olive trees east of Jerusalem beyond the Kidron valley and near the Mount of Olives.

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

God

Related Ideas:

Facts:

In the Bible, the term "God" refers to the eternal being who created the universe out of nothing. God exists as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. God's personal name is "Yahweh."

Translation Suggestions:

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

God

Related Ideas:

Facts:

In the Bible, the term "God" refers to the eternal being who created the universe out of nothing. God exists as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. God's personal name is "Yahweh."

Translation Suggestions:

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Golgotha

Facts:

"Golgotha" was the name of the place where Jesus was crucified. Its name comes from an Aramaic word that means "Skull" or "Place of the Skull."

Bible References:

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Golgotha

Facts:

"Golgotha" was the name of the place where Jesus was crucified. Its name comes from an Aramaic word that means "Skull" or "Place of the Skull."

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Gomorrah

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Gomorrah was a city located in a fertile valley near Sodom, where Abraham's nephew Lot chose to live.

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Greek

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The term "Greek" refers to the language spoken in the country of Greece. It is also a person from the country of Greece. Greek was also spoken throughout the Roman Empire. The term "Grecian" means "Greek-speaking."

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Hades

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The terms "Hades" and "Sheol" are used in the Bible to refer to death and the place where the souls of people go when they die. Their meanings are similar.

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Ham

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Herodias

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Herodias was the wife of Herod Antipas in Judea during the time of John the Baptist.

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Herodias

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Herodias was the wife of Herod Antipas in Judea during the time of John the Baptist.

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Hezekiah

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Hezekiah was the 13th king over the kingdom of Judah. He was a king who trusted and obeyed God.

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Holy Spirit

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These terms all refer to the Holy Spirit, who is God. The one true God exists eternally as the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

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Holy Spirit, Spirit, Spirit of God, Spirit of the Lord, Spirit of the Lord Yahweh

Isaac

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Isaac was the only son of Abraham and Sarah. God had promised to give them a son even though they were very old.

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Isaiah

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Isaiah was a prophet of God who prophesied during the reigns of four kings of Judah: Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah.

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Israel

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The term "Israel" is the name that God gave to Jacob. It means "he struggles with God."

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Israel

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The term "Israel" is the name that God gave to Jacob. It means "he struggles with God."

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Jacob

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James son of Alphaeus

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James, the son of Alphaeus, was one of Jesus' twelve disciples. Jesus also called these men apostles.

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James son of Zebedee

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James, a son of Zebedee, was one of Jesus' twelve apostles. He had a younger brother named John who was also one of Jesus' apostles.

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Jehoshaphat

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Jeremiah

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Jeremiah was a prophet of God in the kingdom of Judah. The Old Testament book of Jeremiah contains his prophecies.

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Jeremiah

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Jeremiah was a prophet of God in the kingdom of Judah. The Old Testament book of Jeremiah contains his prophecies.

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Jericho

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Jericho was a powerful city in the land of Canaan. It was located just west of the Jordan River and just north of the Salt Sea.

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Jerusalem

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Jerusalem was originally an ancient Canaanite city that later became the most important city in Israel. It is located about 34 kilometers west of the Salt Sea and just north of Bethlehem. It is still the capital city of Israel today.

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Jerusalem

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Jesse

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Jesse

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Jesus

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Jew

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Jews are people who are descendants of Abraham's grandson Jacob. The word "Jew" comes from the word "Judah."

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Jew, Jewish, Jews, Jews', a person of Judah, the language of Judah, the people of Judah

John the Baptist

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John was the son of Zechariah and Elizabeth. Since "John" was a common name, he is often called "John the Baptist" to distinguish him from the other people named John, such as the Apostle John.

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Jonah

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Jonah

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Joram

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Joram son of Ahab was a king of Israel. He was also sometimes referred to as "Jehoram."

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Joram

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Joram son of Ahab was a king of Israel. He was also sometimes referred to as "Jehoram."

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Jordan River

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The Jordan River is a river that flows from north to south, and forms the eastern boundary of the land that was called Canaan.

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Josiah

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Josiah was a godly king who reigned over the kingdom of Judah for thirty-one years. He led the people of Judah to repent and worship Yahweh.

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Jotham

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Judah

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Judah was one of Jacob's older sons. His mother was Leah. His descendants were called the "tribe of Judah."

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Judah

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The tribe of Judah was the largest of the twelve tribes of Israel. The kingdom of Judah was made up of the tribes of Judah and Benjamin.

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Judas Iscariot

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Judas Iscariot was one of Jesus' apostles. He was the one who betrayed Jesus to the Jewish leaders.

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Judea

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The term "Judea" refers to an area of land in ancient Israel. It is sometimes used in a narrow sense and other times in a broad sense.

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Judea

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The term "Judea" refers to an area of land in ancient Israel. It is sometimes used in a narrow sense and other times in a broad sense.

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King of the Jews

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Manasseh

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Mary

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Mary was a young woman living in the city of Nazareth who was pledged to be married to a man named Joseph. God chose Mary to be the mother of Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God.

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Mary

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Mary was a young woman living in the city of Nazareth who was pledged to be married to a man named Joseph. God chose Mary to be the mother of Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God.

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Mary Magdalene

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Mary Magdalene was one of several women who believed in Jesus and followed him in his ministry. She was known as the one whom Jesus had healed from seven demons who had controlled her.

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Matthew

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Matthew was one of the twelve men that Jesus chose to be his apostles. He was also known as Levi son of Alphaeus.

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Moses

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Moses

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Mount of Olives

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The Mount of Olives is a mountain or large hill located near the east side of the city of Jerusalem. It is about 787 meters high.

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Naphtali

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Naphtali was the sixth son of Jacob. His descendants formed the tribe of Naphtali, which was one of the twelve tribes of Israel.

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Nazareth

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Nazareth is a town in the region of Galilee in northern Israel. It is about 100 kilometers north of Jerusalem, and it took about three to five days to travel on foot.

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Nineveh

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Nineveh was the capital city of Assyria. A "Ninevite" was a person who lived in Nineveh.

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Noah

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Noah was a man who lived over 4,000 years ago, at the time when God sent a worldwide flood to destroy all the evil people in the world. God told Noah to build a gigantic ark in which he and his family could live while the flood waters covered the earth.

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Noah

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Passover

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The "Passover" is the name of a religious festival that the Jews celebrate every year, to remember how God rescued their ancestors, the Israelites, from slavery in Egypt.

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Peter

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Peter was one of Jesus' twelve apostles. He was an important leader of the early Church.

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Pharisee

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The Pharisees were an important, powerful group of Jewish religious leaders in Jesus' time.

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Philip

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In the early Christian church in Jerusalem, Philip was one of seven leaders chosen to care for the poor and needy Christians, especially the widows.

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Philip

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In the early Christian church in Jerusalem, Philip was one of seven leaders chosen to care for the poor and needy Christians, especially the widows.

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Philip

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Philip the apostle was one of the original twelve disciples of Jesus. He was from the town of Bethsaida.

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Philip

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Philip the apostle was one of the original twelve disciples of Jesus. He was from the town of Bethsaida.

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Philippi

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Philippi was a major city and Roman colony located in Macedonia in the northern part of ancient Greece. The people of Philippi were called "Philippians."

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Pilate

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Pilate was the governor of the Roman province of Judea who sentenced Jesus to death.

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Rabbi

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Rachel

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Rachel was one of Jacob's wives. She and her sister Leah were the daughters of Laban, Jacob's uncle.

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Rahab

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Rahab was a woman who lived in Jericho when Israel attacked the city. She was a prostitute.

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Ramah

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Ramah was an ancient Israelite city located about 8 km from Jerusalem. It was in the region where the tribe of Benjamin lived.

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Rehoboam

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Rehoboam was one of the sons of King Solomon, and he became the king of the nation of Israel after Solomon died.

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Rehoboam

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Rehoboam was one of the sons of King Solomon, and he became the king of the nation of Israel after Solomon died.

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Ruth

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Ruth was a Moabite woman who lived during the time when judges were leading Israel. She married an Israelite man in Moab after he had moved there with his family because of a famine during the time when judges were leading Israel.

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Sabbath

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The term "Sabbath" refers to the seventh day of the week, which God commanded the Israelites to set apart as a day of rest and doing no work.

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Sadducee

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The Sadducees were a political group of Jewish priests during the time of Jesus Christ. They supported Roman rule and did not believe in the resurrection.

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Satan

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Although the devil is a spirit being that God created, he rebelled against God and became God's enemy. The devil is also called "Satan" and "the evil one."

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Sea of Galilee

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The "Sea of Galilee" is a lake in eastern Israel. It was also referred to as the "Sea of Tiberias" and the "lake of Gennesaret." In the Old Testament it was called the "Sea of Kinnereth."

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Sea of Galilee, Sea of Kinnereth, lake of Gennesaret, Sea of Tiberias, Kinnereth

Sidon

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Sidon was the oldest son of Canaan. There is also a Canaanite city called Sidon, probably named after Canaan's son.

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Sidon

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Sidon was the oldest son of Canaan. There is also a Canaanite city called Sidon, probably named after Canaan's son.

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Simon the Zealot

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Sodom

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Sodom was a city in the southern part of Canaan where Abraham's nephew Lot lived with his wife and children.

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Sodom

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Sodom was a city in the southern part of Canaan where Abraham's nephew Lot lived with his wife and children.

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Solomon

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Solomon

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Son of God

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The term "Son of God" refers to Jesus, the Word of God, who came into the world as a human being. He is also often referred to as "the Son."

Because Jesus is God's Son, he loves and obeys his Father, and his Father loves him.

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Son of Man

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The title "Son of Man" was used by Jesus to refer to himself. He often used this term instead of saying "I" or "me."

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Syria

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Syria is a country located northeast of Israel. During the time of the New Testament, it was a province under the rule of the Roman Empire.

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Syria

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Syria is a country located northeast of Israel. During the time of the New Testament, it was a province under the rule of the Roman Empire.

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Tamar

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Tamar was the name of several women in the Old Testament. It was also the name of several cities or other places in the Old Testament.

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Tamar

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Tamar was the name of several women in the Old Testament. It was also the name of several cities or other places in the Old Testament.

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Thomas

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Thomas was one of twelve men whom Jesus chose to be his disciples and later, apostles. He was also known as "Didymus," which means "twin."

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Tyre

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Tyre was an ancient Canaanite city located on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea in a region that is now part of the modern-day country of Lebanon. Its people were called "Tyrians."

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Ur was an important city along the Euphrates River in the ancient region of Chaldea, which was part of Mesopotamia. This region was located in what is now the modern-day country of Iraq.

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Ur was an important city along the Euphrates River in the ancient region of Chaldea, which was part of Mesopotamia. This region was located in what is now the modern-day country of Iraq.

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Uriah

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Uriah was a righteous man and one of King David's best soldiers. He is often referred to as "Uriah the Hittite."

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Uzziah

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Uzziah became king of Judah at the age of 16 and reigned 52 years, which was an unusually long reign. Uzziah was also known as "Azariah."

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Zadok

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Zadok was the name of an important high priest in Israel during the reign of King David.

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Zebedee

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Zebedee was a fisherman from Galilee who is known because of his sons, James and John, who were Jesus' disciples. They are often identified in the New Testament as the "sons of Zebedee."

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Zebulun

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Zebulun was the last son born to Jacob and Leah and is the name of one of the twelve tribes of Israel. His descendants were called Zebulunites.

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Zerubbabel

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Zion

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Originally, the term "Zion" or "Mount Zion" referred to a stronghold or fortress that King David captured from the Jebusites. Both these terms became other ways of referring to Jerusalem.

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abomination

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The term "abomination" is used to refer to something that causes disgust or extreme dislike.

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abominable, abomination, abominations, committed ... abominably, disgusting practices, disgusting thing, disgusting things, foul, foul thing

accuse

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The terms "accuse" and "accusation" refer to blaming someone for doing something wrong. A person who accuses others is an "accuser."

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adultery

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The term "adultery" refers to a sin that occurs when a married person has sexual relations with someone who is not that person's spouse. Both of them are guilty of adultery. The term "adulterous" describes this kind of behavior or any person who commits this sin.

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adulterer, adulterers, adulteress, adulteresses, adulteries, adulterous, adultery, immoral woman

adversary

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An "adversary" is a person or group who is opposed to someone or something. The term "enemy" has a similar meaning.

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adversaries, adversary, enemies, enemies', enemy, enemy's, hostile, hostilities, hostility, opponent, opponents, oppose, opposed, opposes, opposition

age

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The term "age" refers to the length of time a person has lived. The term "aged" describes a person who is very old. The term "age" is also used to refer generally to a time period.

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age

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The term "age" refers to the length of time a person has lived. The term "aged" describes a person who is very old. The term "age" is also used to refer generally to a time period.

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alms

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The term "alms" refers to money, food, or other things that are given to help poor people.

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altar

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An altar was a raised structure on which the Israelites burned animals and grains as offerings to God.

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amazed

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amazement, appalled, astonished, astounded, incomprehensible, marvel, marvelous, perplexed, remarkable, surprised, wonder, wonderful

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Some of these terms mean to be very surprised because of something very unusual that happened. Many of these terms are positive and express that the people were happy about what had happened. Usually the event that caused the wonder and amazement was a miracle, something only God could do.

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amazed, amazement, amazing events, amazing things, appalled, appalling, astonish, astonished, astonishing, astounded, incomprehensible, marvel, marveled, marveling, marvelous, marvelous things, perplexed, remarkable, surprised, wonder, wonderful, wondering, wonders

amen

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The term "amen" is a word used to emphasize or call attention to what a person has said. It is often used at the end of a prayer. Sometimes it is translated as "truly."

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angel

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An angel is a powerful spirit being whom God created. Angels exist to serve God by doing whatever he tells them to do. The term "archangel" refers to the angel who rules or leads all the other angels.

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anger

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To "be angry" or to "have anger" means to be very displeased, irritated, and upset about something or against someone.

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anger, anger burned, angered, angry, burning anger, indignant, indignation, quick-tempered

anoint

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The term "anoint" means to rub or pour oil on a person or object. Sometimes the oil was mixed with spices, giving it a sweet, perfumed smell. The term is also used figuratively to refer to the Holy Spirit choosing and empowering someone.

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apostle

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The "apostles" were men sent by Jesus to preach about God and his kingdom. The term "apostleship" refers to the position and authority of those who were chosen as apostles.

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ark

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The term "ark" literally refers to a rectangular wooden box that is made to hold or protect something. An ark can be large or small, depending on what it is being used for.

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ark

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The term "ark" literally refers to a rectangular wooden box that is made to hold or protect something. An ark can be large or small, depending on what it is being used for.

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ash

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The term "ash" or "ashes" refers to the grey powdery substance that is left behind after wood is burned. It is sometimes used figuratively to refer to something that is worthless or useless.

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ash

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The term "ash" or "ashes" refers to the grey powdery substance that is left behind after wood is burned. It is sometimes used figuratively to refer to something that is worthless or useless.

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asleep

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The phrases "lie with" and "sleep with," when referring to what a man and a woman do together, is a euphemism for them having sexual relations.

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asleep, fallen asleep, fell asleep, sleep, lay down, lies down, sleeper, sleeping, sleeps, slept

assign

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The term "assign" or "assigned" refers to appointing someone to do a specific task or designating something to be provided to one or more people.

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assign, assigned, assigned portion, assigning, assignment, assignments, given ... portion, place assigned, portion, portions, reassign

astray

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The terms "stray" and "go astray" mean to disobey God's will. People who are "led astray" have allowed other people or circumstances to influence them to disobey God.

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astray, drawn away, go astray, goes astray, gone astray, lead ... astray, leads ... astray, led ... astray, made ... mistake, mislead, misleading, misleads, misled, mistaken, stray, strayed, straying, strays, wander, went astray

authority

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The term "authority" refers to the power of influence and control that someone has over someone else.

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authorities, authority, authority to judge, places ... in charge, put ... in charge, puts ... in charge, right, was ... in charge, were ... in charge

awe

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The term "awe" refers to the sense of amazement and deep respect that comes from seeing something great, powerful, and magnificent.

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baptize

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In the New Testament, the terms "baptize" and "baptism" usually refer to ritually bathing a Christian with water to show that he has been cleansed from sin and has been united with Christ.

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basket

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basket

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bear

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The term "bear" literally means "carry" something. There are also many figurative uses of this term.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

bear, bearer, bearing, bearing with, bears, birth, bore, born, borne, carried, carry, carrying, childbirth, gave birth, give birth, given birth, gives birth, has ... borne, have ... borne, support, supported, supports, sustain, sustains, tolerate

bear

Definition:

A bear is a large, four-legged furry animal with dark brown or black hair, with sharp teeth and claws. Bears were common in Israel during Bible times.

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beg

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Definition:

The term "beg" means to urgently ask someone for something. It often refers to asking for money, but it is also commonly used to refer to pleading for something.

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believe

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The terms "believe" and "believe in" are closely related, but have slightly different meanings:

In the Bible, the term "believer" refers to someone who believes in and relies on Jesus Christ as Savior.

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am persuaded, belief, believe, believed, believer, believers, believes, believing, has faith, persuade, persuaded, persuading, persuasiveness, were persuaded

beloved

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Definition:

The term "beloved" is an expression of affection that describes someone who is loved and dear to someone else.

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betray

Related Ideas:

betrayal, betrayer, give over, hand over, traitor, treacherous, treacherously, treachery, turn over

Definition:

The term "betray" means to act in a way that deceives a person and allows other people to harm that person. A "betrayer" is a person who betrays a friend who was trusting him.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

betray, betrayal, betrayed, betrayer, betrayers, betraying, betrays, give ... over, given ... over, hand ... over, handed ... over, traitor, traitors, treacherous, treacherously, treachery, turn ... over

bind

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Definition:

The term "bind" means to tie something or fasten it securely. Something that is tied or joined together is called a "bond." The term "bound" is the past tense of this term.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

bind, binding, bond, bonds, bound, chain, chained, chains, fetters, is bound, put ... in bonds, puts on, restrain, tie, tie up, tied, tied up, tying, wrapped

blasphemy

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Definition:

In the Bible, the term "blasphemy" refers to speaking in a way that shows a deep disrespect for God or people. To "blaspheme" or "insult" or "revile" someone is to speak against that person so that others think something false or bad about him.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

blaspheme, blasphemed, blasphemer, blasphemers, blasphemes, blasphemies, blaspheming, blasphemous, blasphemy, insult, insulted, insulting, insults, revile, reviled, reviling

bless

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Definition:

To "bless" someone or something means to cause good and beneficial things to happen to the person or thing that is being blessed.

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blood

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Definition:

The term "blood" refers to the red liquid that comes out of a person's skin when there is an injury or wound. Blood brings life-giving nutrients to a person's entire body.

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body

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Definition:

The term "body" literally refers to the physical body of a person or animal. This term is also used figuratively to refer to an object or whole group that has individual members.

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body

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Definition:

The term "body" literally refers to the physical body of a person or animal. This term is also used figuratively to refer to an object or whole group that has individual members.

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bow

Related Ideas:

Note

Definition:

To bow means to bend over to humbly express respect and honor toward someone. To "bow down" means to bend over or kneel down very low, often with face and hands toward the ground.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

are bent, bend, bend the knee, bow, bow down, bowed, bowed ... down, bowed ... down ... before, bowing, bowing down, bows, bows down, fall down, fell, fell down, has ... bent, have ... bent, kneel, kneeling, knelt, will bend

bread

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Definition:

Bread is a food made from flour mixed with water and oil to form a dough. The dough is then shaped into a loaf and baked.

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bread

Related Ideas:

Definition:

Bread is a food made from flour mixed with water and oil to form a dough. The dough is then shaped into a loaf and baked.

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bride

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Definition:

A bride is the woman in a wedding ceremony who is getting married to her husband, the bridegroom.

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bridegroom

Definition:

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brother

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Definition:

The term "brother" usually refers to a male person who shares at least one biological parent with another person.

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burden

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Definition:

A burden is a heavy load. It literally refers to a physical load such as a work animal would carry. The term "burden" also has several figurative meanings:

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bury

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Definition:

The term "bury" usually refers to putting a dead body into a hole or other burial place. The term "burial" is the act of burying something or can be used to describe a place used to bury something.

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call

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Definition:

The terms "call to" and "call out" mean to say something loudly to someone who is not nearby. To "call" someone means to summon that person. There are also some other meanings.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

appeal to, appealed to, appealing to, call, called, called on, called out, calling, calling out, calls, calls out, invite, invited, summon, summoned, summoning

camel

Definition:

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cast out

Related Ideas:

banish, cast off, compel to go, drive out, force out, outcast, put outside, throw out

Definition:

To "cast out" or "drive out" someone or something means to force that person or thing to go away.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

banish, banished, cast ... off, cast ... out, casting out, compelled ... to go, drive, drive ... away, drive ... out, driven, driven ... away, driven ... out, drives ... away, drives ... out, driving ... out, drove ... out, force ... out, forced ... out, forcing ... out, outcast, outcasts, put ... outside, threw ... out, throw ... out, throwing out, thrown, thrown out

centurion

Definition:

A centurion was a Roman army officer who had a group of 100 soldiers under his command.

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chaff

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Definition:

Chaff is a dry protective covering of a grain seed. The chaff is not good for food, so people separate it from the seed and throw it away.

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chief

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Definition:

The term "chief" refers to the most powerful or most important leader of a particular group.

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chief priests

Definition:

The chief priests were important Jewish religious leaders during the time that Jesus lived on earth.

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children

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Definition:

In the Bible, the term "child" is often used to generally refer to someone who is young in age, including an infant.

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church

Definition:

In the New Testament, the term "church" refers to a local group of believers in Jesus who regularly met together to pray and hear God's word preached. The term "the Church" often refers to all Christians.

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clean

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Definition:

The term "clean" literally means to not have any dirt or stain. In the Bible, words like "clean" and "washed" are often used figuratively to mean, "pure," "holy," "free from sin," or "innocent".

In the Bible, the term "unclean" is used figuratively to refer to things that God declared to be unfit for his people to touch, eat, or sacrifice.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

clean, cleaned, cleanness, cleans, cleanse, cleansed, cleanses, cleansing, purge, unclean, uncleanness, wash, washed, washes, washing

clothed

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Definition:

When used figuratively in the Bible, "clothed with" means to be endowed or equipped with something. To "clothe" oneself with something means to seek to have a certain character quality.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

cloth, clothe, clothed, clothes, clothing, cover, covered, coverings, coverings for their loins, covers, dressed, garment, garments, put ... on, putting ... on, unclothed, wardrobe, wear, wearing, worn

comfort

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Definition:

The terms "comfort" and "comforter" refer to helping someone who is suffering physical or emotional pain.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

comfort, comforted, comforter, comforters, comforting, comforts, consolation, consolations, consoling, uncomforted

command

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Definition:

The term to "command" means to order someone to do something. A "command" or "commandment" is what the person was ordered to do.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

command, commanded, commanding, commandment, commandments, commands, forbid, forbidden, forbidding, give ... solemn command, given ... solemn commands, given an order, given orders, order, ordered, orders, requirement, solemn commands

commit

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Definition:

The terms "commit" and "commitment" refer to making a decision or promising to do something.

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compassion

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Definition:

The term "compassion" refers to a feeling of concern for people, especially for those who are suffering. A "compassionate" person cares about other people and helps them.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

compassion, compassionate, compassions, deal gently with, pitied, pity, sympathy

conceive

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Definition:

The terms "conceive" and "conception" usually refer to becoming pregnant with a child. It can also be used for animals that become pregnant.

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condemn

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Definition:

The terms "condemn" and "condemnation" refer to judging someone for doing something wrong.

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condemn, condemnation, condemned, condemning, condemns, denounce, sentence, sentence of condemnation, sentenced to death

confess

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Definition:

To confess means to admit or assert that something is true. A "confession" is a statement or admission that something is true.

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confirm

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Definition:

The terms "confirm" and "confirmation" refer to stating or assuring that something is true or sure or trustworthy.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

carry out, cause ... to believe firmly, confirm, confirmation, confirmed, confirms, guaranteed

consume

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Definition:

The term "consume" literally means to use up something. It has several figurative meanings.

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cornerstone

Definition:

The term "cornerstone" refers to a large stone that has been specially cut and placed in the corner of the foundation of a building.

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council

Definition:

A council is a group of people who meet to discuss, give advice, and make decisions about important matters.

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courage

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Definitions:

The term "courage" refers to boldly facing or doing something that is difficult, frightening, or dangerous.

The terms "encourage" and encouragement" refer to saying and doing things to cause someone to have comfort, hope, confidence, and courage.

The term "discourage" refers to saying and doing things that cause people to lose hope, confidence, and courage and so to have less desire to keep working hard to do what they know they should do.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

brave, bravest, courage, courageous, dare, dared, discourage, discouraged, discouragement, discouraging, encourage, encouraged, encouragement, encouraging, take courage

court

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Definition:

The terms "courtyard" and "court" refer to an enclosed area that is open to the sky and surrounded by walls. The term "court" also refers to a place where judges decide legal and criminal matters.

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covenant

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Definition:

A covenant is a formal, binding agreement between two parties that one or both parties must fulfill.

The term "new covenant" refers to the commitment or agreement God made with his people through the sacrifice of his Son, Jesus.

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cross

Definition:

In Bible times, a cross was an upright wooden post stuck into the ground, with a horizontal wooden beam attached to it near the top.

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crown

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Definition:

A crown is a decorative, circular headpiece worn on the head of rulers such as kings and queens. The term to "crown" means to put a crown on someone's head; figuratively it means to "honor."

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crucify

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Definition:

The term "crucify" means to execute someone by attaching him to a cross and leaving him there to suffer and die in great pain.

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cry

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The terms "cry" or "cry out" often mean to say something loudly and urgently. Someone can "cry out" in pain or in distress or in anger.

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Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

cried, cried for help, cried out, cries, cries of distress, cries out, cry, cry ... for help, cry aloud, cry of distress, cry out, crying, crying out, outcries, outcry, raised ... voice, scream, screams, shout, shout out loud, shouted, shouting, shouting out, shouts, speak out, spoke loudly

curse

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Definition:

The term "curse" means to cause negative things to happen to the person or thing that is being cursed.

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curtain

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Definition:

In the Bible, the term "curtain" refers to a very thick, heavy piece of material used in the making of the tabernacle and the temple.

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cut off

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Definition:

The expression "cut off" literally means to use a sharp instrument to remove a part of something. This can refer to, for example, removing a limb from a tree or an arm or leg from a person, or to chopping a tree completely down.

The expression "cut off" is also used to refer to God causing a river to stop flowing.

The metaphor "cut off" refers to people or God separating a person from his nation or community either by driving him away or by killing him.

To "pluck" is to separate a part of something from the rest by pulling it off or out.

Picture of Cut Off From People:

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

chop ... down, chopped ... down, cut ... down, cut ... off, cut ... out of, cut in two, cut off, cuts ... off, cutting ... off, eliminate, pluck ... out, shear, sheared, tear ... off

darkness

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Definition:

The terms "darkness" and "gloom" literally means an absence of light. There are also several figurative meanings of these terms:

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daughter of Zion

Definition:

"Daughter of Zion" is a figurative way of referring to the people of Israel. It is usually used in prophecies.

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day

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Definition:

The term "day" literally refers to a period of time lasting 24 hours beginning at sundown. It is also used figuratively.

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day

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "day" literally refers to a period of time lasting 24 hours beginning at sundown. It is also used figuratively.

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death

Related Ideas:

breathed their last, dead, deadly, deadness, deathly, die, lethal, mortal, stop breathing

Definition:

This term is used to refer to both physical and spiritual death. Physically, it refers to when the physical body of a person stops living. Spiritually, it refers to sinners being separated from a holy God because of their sin.

1. Physical death

2. Spiritual death

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

about to die, breathed ... last, causes ... death, dead, deadly, deadness, death, deathly, deaths, die, die with, died, dies, dying, fatal, lethal, mortal, stop breathing, stops breathing

deceive

Related Ideas:

lie, deal falsely, deceit, deception, deceptive, delusion, entice, error, false, falsehood, flatter, illusion, trick

Definition:

The word "deceive" means to cause someone to believe something that is not true.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

a lie, deal falsely, deceit, deceitful, deceitfully, deceitfulness, deceive, deceived, deceiver, deceivers, deceives, deceiving, deception, deceptive, defraud, defrauded, delusion, entice, error, false, falsehood, falsely, flatter, flattering, flatters, flattery, illusions, liar, liars, lies, trick

declare

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Definition:

The terms "declare" and "declaration" refer to making a formal or public statement, often to emphasize something. To "proclaim" means to announce or declare something publicly and boldly.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

announce, announced, announces, declaration, declarations, declare, declared, declares, declaring, proclaim, proclaimed, proclaiming, proclaims, proclamation, proclamations, pronounces

defile

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Definition:

The terms "defile" and "be defiled" refer to becoming polluted or dirty. Something can be defiled in a physical, moral, or ritual sense.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

are defiled, be defiled, defile, defiled, defiles, defiling, polluted, pollutes, pollution, stain, stained, was defiled, were defiled

deliver

Related Ideas:

Definition:

To "deliver" someone means to rescue that person. The term "deliverer" refers to someone who rescues or frees people from slavery, oppression, or other dangers. The term "deliverance" refers to what happens when someone rescues or frees people from slavery, oppression, or other dangers.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

be rescued, defend, defended, deliver, deliverance, delivered, delivered ... over, deliverer, deliverers, delivering, delivers, escape, escaped, permit ... to escape, relieve, rescue, rescued, rescuer, rescues

demon

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Definition:

All these terms refer to demons, which are spirit beings that oppose God's will.

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demon-possessed

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Definition:

A person who is demon-possessed has a demon or evil spirit that controls what he does and thinks.

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desert

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Definition:

A desert, or wilderness, is a dry, barren place where very few plants and trees can grow.

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desolate

Related Ideas:

alone, deserted, desolation, desolations, isolated, left alone, left without, lonely

Definition:

The terms "desolate" and "desolation" refer to destroying an inhabited region so that it becomes uninhabited.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

alone, deserted, deserted place, deserted places, desolate, desolation, desolations, isolated, left ... alone, left ... without, lonely, made ... desolate, making ... desolate, uninhabited

destroy

Related Ideas:

break down, bring ... to nothing, destruction, remove, cut to pieces, demolish, destroyer, destructive, downfall, overthrow, pass away, put an end to, shatter, spoil, throw down, waste away

Definition:

To destroy something is to completely make an end to it, so that it no longer exists.

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Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

an end is put to, be destroyed, break ... down, breaking ... down, breaks ... down, bring ... to nothing, broke to pieces, broken, broken to pieces, brought ... down, brought ... to nothing, complete destruction, completely destroy, completely destroyed, crashing sound, cut ... to pieces, cut into pieces, cuts ... into pieces, demolish, destroy, destroy ... completely, destroyed, destroyer, destroyers, destroying, destroys, destruction, destructive, downfall, overthrew, overthrown, pass away, put an end to, shatter, shattered, shattering, spoil, throw down, throws ... down, thrown down, wasting away

devour

Definition:

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disciple

Definition:

The term "disciple" refers to a person who spends much time with a teacher, learning from that teacher's character and teaching.

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disgrace

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divorce

Definition:

A divorce is the legal act of ending a marriage. The term to "divorce" means to formally and legally separate from one's spouse in order to end the marriage.

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doctrine

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Definition:

The word "doctrine" literally means "teaching." It usually refers to religious teaching.

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donkey

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Definition:

A donkey is a four-legged work animal, similar to a horse, but smaller and with longer ears.

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dove

Related Ideas:

Definition:

Doves and pigeons are two kinds of small, gray-brown birds that look similar. A dove is often thought of as being lighter in color, almost white.

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dove

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Definition:

Doves and pigeons are two kinds of small, gray-brown birds that look similar. A dove is often thought of as being lighter in color, almost white.

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dream

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Definition:

A dream is something that people see or experience in their minds while they are sleeping.

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drunk

Related Ideas:

Definitions:

The term "drunk" means to be intoxicated from drinking too much of an alcoholic beverage.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

be ... intoxicated, became drunk, become drunk, drank freely, drink much, drunk, drunkard, drunkards, drunkenness, get drunk

earth

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Definition:

The term "earth" refers to the world that human beings live on, along with all other forms of life.

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elder

Definition:

Elders are spiritually mature men who have responsibilities of spiritual and practical leadership among God's people.

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elect

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "the elect" literally means "chosen ones" or "chosen people" and refers to those whom God has appointed or selected to be his people. "Chosen One" or "Chosen One of God" is a title that refers to Jesus, who is the chosen Messiah.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

Chosen One, choice, choose, chooses, chose, chosen, chosen one, chosen ones, chosen people, elect, election

endure

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "endure" means to last a long time or to bear something difficult with patience.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

endurance, endure, endured, endures, enduring, patient endurance, put up with, resist, stand

envy

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "envy" refers to being jealous of someone because of what that person possesses or because of that person's admirable qualities.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

covet, coveted, coveting, covetousness, envied, envious, envy, envying, greed, greedy

eunuch

Definition:

Usually the term "eunuch" refers to a man who has been castrated. The term later became a general term to refer to any government official, even those without the deformity.

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evil

Related Ideas:

deal violently, displeasing, evil actions, evil deeds, evil plans, fraudulent, harm, harmful, violate, violence, violent, wicked, wicked deeds, wickedly, wickedness, wretched, wretchedly

Definition:

The terms "evil" and "wicked" both refer to anything that is opposed to God's holy character and will.

Translation Suggestions:

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Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

deal violently, deal worse, displeasing, do ... evil, do ... violence, done ... violence, evil, evil actions, evil deeds, evil plans, evils, fraudulent, harm, harmful, violate, violated, violates, violence, violent, wicked, wicked deeds, wickedly, wickedness, wretched, wretchedly, wretches

evil

Related Ideas:

deal violently, displeasing, evil actions, evil deeds, evil plans, fraudulent, harm, harmful, violate, violence, violent, wicked, wicked deeds, wickedly, wickedness, wretched, wretchedly

Definition:

The terms "evil" and "wicked" both refer to anything that is opposed to God's holy character and will.

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exalt

Related Ideas:

Definition:

To exalt is to lift up. Often exalt means to praise or honor someone or something. It can also mean to put someone in an honored position of leadership.

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exalt, exaltation, exalted, exalting, exalts, high position, leadership positions, lifted up, lofty

face

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Definition:

The word "face" literally refers to the front part of a person's head. This term also has several figurative meanings.

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faith

Definition:

In general, the term "faith" refers to a belief, trust or confidence in someone or something.

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faithful

Related Ideas:

Definition:

To be "faithful" to God means to consistently live according to God's teachings. It means to be loyal to him by obeying him.The state or condition of being faithful is "faithfulness."

The term "unfaithful" describes people who do not do what God has commanded them to do. The condition or practice of being unfaithful is "unfaithfulness."

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Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

faithful, faithful one, faithful people, faithfully, faithfulness, reliable, show ... self ... faithful

false prophet

Definition:

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family

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Definition:

The term "family" refers to a group of people who are related by blood and usually includes a father, mother, and their children. It often also includes other relatives such as grandparents, grandchildren, uncles and aunts.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

families, family, family line, genealogical record, genealogical records, genealogies, genealogy, recorded in ... genealogies, recorded in ... genealogy

famine

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The term "famine" refers to an extreme lack of food throughout a country or region, usually due to not enough rain. The term "famished" means extremely hungry.

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fast

Definition:

The term to "fast" means to stop eating food for a period of time, such as for a day or more. Sometimes it also includes not drinking.

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fast

Definition:

The term to "fast" means to stop eating food for a period of time, such as for a day or more. Sometimes it also includes not drinking.

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father

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ancestor, ancestor's, ancestors, ancestors', ancestral, beget, begot, father, father's, fathered, fathering, fatherless, fathers, fathers', forefather, forefathers, grandfather, orphan, orphans

fear

Related Ideas:

afraid, alarmed, anxiety, coward, dismay, dread, fainthearted, fearful, fearlessly, fearsome, frighten, timid, unafraid

Definition:

The terms "fear" and "afraid" refer to the unpleasant feeling a person has when there is a threat of harm to himself or others.

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afraid, alarmed, anxiety, cowards, dismay, dismayed, dread, dreaded, fainthearted, fear, feared, fearful, fearful thing, fearlessly, fears, fearsome, frighten, frightened, timid, unafraid

feast

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Definition:

The term "feast" refers to an event where a group of people eat a very large meal together, often for the purpose of celebrating something. The action to "feast" means to eat a large amount of food or to participate in eating a feast together.

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festival

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fig

Definition:

A fig is a small, soft, sweet fruit that grows on trees. When ripe, this fruit can be a variety of colors, including brown, yellow, or purple.

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fig

Definition:

A fig is a small, soft, sweet fruit that grows on trees. When ripe, this fruit can be a variety of colors, including brown, yellow, or purple.

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fir

Definition:

A fir tree is a kind of tree that stays green all year and has cones that contain seeds.

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fire

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blazing, fiery, fire, firebrands, fires, flaming, kindle, kindled, kindles, set fire to, set ... on fire, sets ... on fire

fishermen

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Definition:

Fishermen are men who catch fish from the water as a means of earning money. In the New Testament, the fishermen used large nets to catch fish. The term "fishers" is another name for fishermen.

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flesh

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In the Bible, the term "flesh" literally refers to the soft tissue of the physical body of a human being or animal.

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flock

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In the Bible, "flock" refers to a group of sheep or goats and "herd" refers to a group of cattle, oxen, or pigs.

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flute

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Definition:

In Bible times, pipes were musical instruments made of bone or wood with holes to allow the sound to come out. A flute was a kind of pipe.

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fool

Related Ideas:

folly, foolish, foolishly, foolishness, insane, insanity, out of his mind, senseless, stupid, thoughtless, unwise

Definition:

The term "fool" refers to a person who often makes wrong choices, especially choosing to disobey. The term "foolish" describes a person or behavior that is not wise.

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act of disgraceful folly, acted ... foolishly, disgraceful folly, folly, fool, foolish, foolishness, fools, insane, insanity, out of ... mind, senseless, spoken ... foolishly, stupid, thoughtless, unwise

footstool

Definition:

The term "footstool" refers to an object which a person puts his feet on, usually to rest them while sitting. This term also has figurative meanings of submission and lower status.

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forgive

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To forgive someone means to not hold a grudge against that person even though they did something hurtful. "Forgiveness" is the act of forgiving someone.

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found

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Definition:

The verb "found" means build, create, or lay a base for. The phrase "founded on" means supported by or based on. A "foundation" is the base of support on which something is built or created.

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established, establishes, found, foundation, foundations, founded, founder, founds, lay ... foundation, lay ... foundations

frankincense

Definition:

Frankincense is a fragrant spice made from tree resin. It is used to make perfumes and incense.

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free

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Definition:

The terms "free" or "freedom" refer to not being in slavery, or any other kind of bondage. Another word for "freedom" is "liberty."

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free, freed, freedom, freeing, freely, freely gave, freeman, frees, liberty, set ... free, volunteer, volunteered, without cost, without paying for it

free

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Definition:

The terms "free" or "freedom" refer to not being in slavery, or any other kind of bondage. Another word for "freedom" is "liberty."

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free, freed, freedom, freeing, freely, freely gave, freeman, frees, liberty, set ... free, volunteer, volunteered, without cost, without paying for it

fruit

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bear fruit, crop, crops, fruit, fruitful, fruits, produce, productive land, unfruitful

fruit

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bear fruit, crop, crops, fruit, fruitful, fruits, produce, productive land, unfruitful

fulfill

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carried out, fill up ... to the limit, finishing, fulfill, fulfilled, fulfillment, fulfills, in full, make ... full

furnace

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gate

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Definition:

A "gate" is a hinged barrier at an access point in a fence or wall that surrounds a house or city.

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generation

Definition:

The term "generation" refers to a group of people who were all born around the same time period.

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gift

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The term "gift" refers to anything that is given or offered to someone. A gift is given without the expectation of getting anything in return

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glory

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Definition:

In general, the term "glory" means honor, splendor, and extreme greatness. Anything that has glory is said to be "glorious."

The term "glorify" means to show or tell how great and important something or someone is. It literally means to "give glory to."

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beautiful, beauty, glories, glorified, glorifies, glorify, glorifying, glorious, glory, take pride

glory

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Definition:

In general, the term "glory" means honor, splendor, and extreme greatness. Anything that has glory is said to be "glorious."

The term "glorify" means to show or tell how great and important something or someone is. It literally means to "give glory to."

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beautiful, beauty, glories, glorified, glorifies, glorify, glorifying, glorious, glory, take pride

goat

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Definition:

A goat is a medium-sized, four-legged animal which is similar to a sheep and is raised primarily for its milk and meat. A baby goat is called a "kid."

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god

Related Ideas:

disgusting figure, false god, goat idols, goddess, idolater, idolatrous, idolatry

Definition:

A false god is something that people worship instead of the one true God. The term "goddess" refers specifically to a female false god.

An idol is an object that people make so they can worship it. Something is described as "idolatrous" if it involves giving honor to something other than the one true God.

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disgusting figure, disgusting figures, false god, goat idols, god, goddess, gods, idol, idol's, idolater, idolaters, idolatrous, idolatry, idols, idols'

gold

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Definition:

Gold is a yellow, high quality metal that was used for making jewelry and religious objects. It was the most valuable metal in ancient times.

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gold

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Definition:

Gold is a yellow, high quality metal that was used for making jewelry and religious objects. It was the most valuable metal in ancient times.

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good

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Definition:

The word "good" has different meanings depending on the context. Many languages will use different words to translate these different meanings.

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best, better, do ... good, fair, good, good things, goodness, goods, improved, made ... better, prefer, proper, seemed good, well

good news

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Definition:

The term "gospel" literally means "good news" and refers to a message or announcement that tells people something that benefits them and makes them glad.

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announce good news, announced the good news, announcing ... the good news, being told good news, bring ... good news, brings ... good news, brought ... good news, good news, gospel, gospel's, had ... good news proclaimed, preach the gospel, preached the gospel beforehand, preaching ... the gospel, proclaim ... gospel, proclaimed the good news, proclaimed the gospel, proclaiming ... good news, proclaiming the gospel, telling ... good news, were told the good news

governor

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Definition:

A "governor" is a person who rules over a state, region, or territory. To "govern" means to guide, lead, or manage them.

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deputy, govern, government, governments, governor, governors, high officials, proconsul, proconsuls, provincial governors

grace

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Definition:

The word "grace" refers to help or blessing that is given to someone who has not earned it. The term "gracious" describes someone who shows grace to others.

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grain

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Definition:

The term "grain" usually refers to the seed of a food plant such as wheat, barley, corn, millet, or rice. It can also refer to the whole plant.

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grape

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Definition:

A grape is a small, round, smooth-skinned berry fruit that grows in clusters on vines. The juice of grapes is used in making wine.

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guilt

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cause ... to become guilty, find guilty, guilt, guilty, held accountable, reason for ... penalty

hand

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Definition:

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by the hand of, fist, from the hand of, hand, handbreadth, handed, handful, handfuls, handing, hands, lay a hand on, lays his hand on

hand

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Definition:

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by the hand of, fist, from the hand of, hand, handbreadth, handed, handful, handfuls, handing, hands, lay a hand on, lays his hand on

hang

Definition:

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hang

Definition:

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hard

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Definition:

The term "hard" has several different meanings, depending on the context. It usually describes something that is difficult, persistent, or unyielding.

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hard, harden, hardened, hardening, hardens, harder, hardest, hardly, hardness, hardship, hardships

hard

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Definition:

The term "hard" has several different meanings, depending on the context. It usually describes something that is difficult, persistent, or unyielding.

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hard, harden, hardened, hardening, hardens, harder, hardest, hardly, hardness, hardship, hardships

harvest

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Definition:

The term "harvest" refers to the gathering in of ripe fruits or vegetables from the plants on which they were growing.

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head

Definition:

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heal

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Definition:

The terms "heal" and "cure" both mean to cause a sick, wounded, or disabled person to be healthy again.

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cure, cured, heal, healed, healer, healers, healing, healings, heals, health, healthy, made ... fresh, made ... well, make ... fresh, recovered, unhealthy

heart

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Definition:

In the Bible, the term "heart" is often used figuratively to refer to a person's thoughts, emotions, desires, or will.

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heart

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Definition:

In the Bible, the term "heart" is often used figuratively to refer to a person's thoughts, emotions, desires, or will.

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heaven

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Definition:

The term that is translated as "heaven" usually refers to where God lives. The same word can also mean "sky," depending on the context.

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heir

Definition:

An "heir" is a person who legally receives property or money that belonged to a person who has died.

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hell

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Definition:

Hell is the final place of unending pain and suffering where God will punish everyone who rebels against him and rejects his plan of saving them through Jesus' sacrifice. It is also referred to as the "lake of fire."

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hell

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high priest

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Definition:

The term "high priest" refers to a special priest who was appointed to serve for one year as the leader of all the other Israelite priests.

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holy

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Definition:

The terms "holy" and "holiness" refer to the character of God that is totally set apart and separated from everything that is sinful and imperfect.

Literally, the term "unholy" means "not holy." It describes someone or something that does not honor God.

The term "sacred" describes something that relates to worshiping God or to the pagan worship of false gods.

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holier, holiest, holiness, holy, holy duties, honored as holy, makes ... holy, sacred, sacred gifts, sacred places, unholy

holy city

Definition:

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holy place

Definition:

In the Bible, the terms "the holy place" and "the most holy place" refer to the two parts of the tabernacle or temple building.

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honey

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Definition:

"Honey" is the sweet, sticky, edible substance that honeybees make out of flower nectar. Honeycomb is the waxy frame where the bees store honey.

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honor

Related Ideas:

dignified, esteem, held in honor, highly regarded, honorable, of high standing, places of honor, recognition

Definition:

The terms "honor" and to "honor" refer to giving someone respect, esteem, or reverence.

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dignified, esteem, held in honor, highly regarded, honor, honorable, honored, honoring, honors, of high standing, places of honor, recognition

hope

Definition:

Hope is strongly desiring something to happen. Hope can imply either certainty or uncertainty regarding a future event.

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horn

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Definitions:

Horns are permanent, hard, pointed growths on the heads of many types of animals, including cattle, sheep, goats, and deer.

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hour

Definition:

In addition to being used to refer to when or how long something took place, the term "hour" is also used in several figurative ways:

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house

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house

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house of God

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Definition:

In the Bible, the phrases "house of God" (God's house) and "house of Yahweh (Yahweh's house) refer to a place where God is worshiped.

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household

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Definition:

The term "household" refers to all the people who live together in a house, including family members and all their servants.

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humble

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Definition:

The term "humble" describes a person who does not think of himself as better than others. He is not proud or arrogant. Humility is the quality of being humble.

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hypocrite

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Definition:

The term "hypocrite" refers to a person who does things to appear righteous, but who secretly is acting in evil ways. The term "hypocrisy" refers to the behavior that deceives people into thinking a person is righteous.

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image

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Definition:

These terms are all used to refer to idols that have been made for worshiping a false god. In the context of worshiping idols, the term "image" is a shortened form of "carved image."

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

carved figure, carved figures, carved image, carved images, cast metal figure, cast metal figures, cast metal images, castings, figure, figures, image, images, statue

imitate

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Definition:

The terms "imitate" and "imitator" refers to copying someone else by acting exactly like that person does.

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incense

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Definition:

The term "incense" refers to a mixture of fragrant spices that is burned to produce smoke that has a pleasant smell.

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inherit

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Definition:

The term "inherit" refers to receiving something valuable from a parent or other person because of a special relationship with that person. The "inheritance" is what is received.

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innocent

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Definition:

The term "innocent" means to not be guilty of a crime or other wrongdoing. It can also refer more generally to people who are not involved in evil things.

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instruct

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Definitions:

The terms "instruct" and "instruction" refer to giving specific directions about what to do.

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gave ... instructions, instruct, instructed, instructing, instruction, instructions, instructor, instructors, instructs

interpret

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Definitions:

The terms "interpret" and "interpretation" refer to understanding and explaining the meaning of something.

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interpret, interpretation, interpretations, interpreted, interpreter, interpreting, interprets, translated

is written

Definition:

The phrase "as it is written" or "what is written" occurs frequently in the New Testament and usually refers to commands or prophecies that were written in the Hebrew scriptures.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

are ... written, had ... been written, has ... been written, have ... been written, is ... written, is it ... written, it is written, it was written, Moses ... wrote, was written, were ... written

joy

Related Ideas:

enjoy, enjoyment, glad, gladness, greet, joyful, joyfulness, jubilant, merry-hearted, rejoice, source of gladness

Definition:

Joy is a feeling of delight or deep satisfaction that comes from God. The related term "joyful" describes a person who feels very glad and is full of deep happiness.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

be glad, be merry, enjoy, enjoyed, enjoying, enjoyment, enjoys, glad, gladness, greet, greeted, greeting, greetings, greets, joy, joyful, joyful shouting, joyfully, joyfulness, jubilant, make ... glad, makes ... glad, merry-hearted, rejoice, rejoiced, rejoiced greatly, rejoices, rejoices greatly, rejoicing, shout for joy, shout joyfully, shout of joy, shouts of joy, source of gladness, was merry

judge

Related Ideas:

act of judging, consider, decide, decision, give justice, give judgment, judgment, judgment seat

Definition:

The terms "judge" and "judgment" often refer to making a decision about whether something is morally right or wrong.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

acts of judgment, consider, considered, considering, decide, decided, decided on, decision, give justice, giving judgment, have decided, insightful decisions, judge, judged, judges, judging, judgment, judgment seat, judgments, renders judgment, will judge

judge

Definition:

A judge is a person who decides what is right or wrong when there are disputes between people, usually in matters that pertain to the law.

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justice

Related Ideas:

honest, injustice, just, justification, justify, maintain someone's rights, vindicate, vindication

Definition:

"Just" and "justice" refer to treating people fairly according to God's laws. Human laws that reflect God's standard of right behavior toward others are also just.

The terms "unjust" and "unjustly" refer to treating people in an unfair and often harmful manner.

The terms "justify" and "justification" refer to causing a guilty person to be righteous. Only God can truly justify people.

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desire for justice, dishonest, honest, injustice, injustices, just, justice, justification, justified, justifies, justify, justly, maintain ... rights, unjust, unjustly, vindicate, vindicated, vindication

kin

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Definition:

The term "kin" refers to a person's blood relatives, considered as a group. The word "kinsman" refers specifically to a male relative.

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kin

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Definition:

The term "kin" refers to a person's blood relatives, considered as a group. The word "kinsman" refers specifically to a male relative.

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kind

Definition:

The terms "kind" and "kinds" refer to groups or classifications of things that are connected by shared characteristics.

Picture showing Kinds:

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kind

Definition:

The terms "kind" and "kinds" refer to groups or classifications of things that are connected by shared characteristics.

Picture showing Kinds:

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king

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Definition:

The term "king" refers to a man who is the supreme ruler of a city, state, or country.

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king, king's, kingly, kings, kingship, made ... king, set up ... king, set up kings

king

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "king" refers to a man who is the supreme ruler of a city, state, or country.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

king, king's, kingly, kings, kingship, made ... king, set up ... king, set up kings

kingdom

Related Ideas:

Definition:

A kingdom is a group of people ruled by a king. It also refers to the realm or political regions over which a king or other ruler has control and authority.

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kingdom

Related Ideas:

Definition:

A kingdom is a group of people ruled by a king. It also refers to the realm or political regions over which a king or other ruler has control and authority.

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kingdom of God

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Definition:

The terms "kingdom of God" and "kingdom of heaven" both refer to God's rule and authority over his people and over all creation.

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kiss

Definition:

A kiss is an action in which one person puts his lips to another person's lips or face. This term can also be used figuratively.

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know

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Definition:

To "know" means to understand something or to be aware of a fact. The expression "make known" is an expression that means to tell information.

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knew, know, know ... beforehand, knowing, knowledge, known, knows, made ... known, made known, make ... known, makes known, unknowingly, unknown

labor

Related Ideas:

fellow laborers, forced labor, hard labor, hard-working, laborer, occupation, strive, struggle, toil

Definition:

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fellow laborers, forced labor, hard labor, hard-working, labor, labored, laborer, laborer's, laborers, laboring, labors, occupation, product of ... labor, products of ... labor, strive, strives, striving together, struggle, toil, toiled, toiling, toils

lamp

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "lamp" generally refers to something that produces light. The lamps used in Bible times were usually oil lamps.

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lampstand

Definition:

In the Bible, the term "lampstand" generally refers to a structure on which a lamp is placed in order to provide light to a room.

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law

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A "law" is a legal rule that is usually written down and enforced by someone in authority. A "principle" is a guideline for decision-making and behavior.

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law, lawbreaker, lawbreakers, lawgiver, laws, lawyer, principle, principled, principles

law

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Definition:

A "law" is a legal rule that is usually written down and enforced by someone in authority. A "principle" is a guideline for decision-making and behavior.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

law, lawbreaker, lawbreakers, lawgiver, laws, lawyer, principle, principled, principles

lawful

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Definition:

The term "lawful" refers to something that is permitted to be done according to a law or other requirement. The opposite of this is "unlawful," which simply means "not lawful."

The terms "unlawful" and "not lawful" are used to describe actions that break a law.

The term "lawless" describes a person who does not obey laws or rules. When a country or group of people are in a state of "lawlessness," there is widespread disobedience, rebellion, or immorality.

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learned men

Definition:

"Learned men" or "educated men" were men who were taught by a teacher and knew a lot about one or many topics.

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leper

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The term "leprosy" is used in the Bible to refer to several different skin diseases. A "leper" is a person who has leprosy. The term "leprous" describes a person or body part that is infected with leprosy.

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letter

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A letter is a written message sent to a person or group of persons who are usually a distance away from the writer. An epistle is a special type of letter, often written in a more formal style, for a special purpose, such as teaching.

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life

Related Ideas:

alive, come to life, conduct, exist, fresh, life-giving, lifetime, live, revive, survive, survivor

Definition:

All these terms refer to being physically alive, not dead. They are also used figuratively to refer to being alive spiritually. The following discusses what is meant by "physical life" and "spiritual life."

1. Physical life

2. Spiritual life

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alive, come to life, conduct, conducted, existed, fresh, keep ... alive, life, life-giving, lifeless, lifetime, live, lived, lives, living, revive, revived, survive, survived, survivor, survivors

light

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Definition:

There are several figurative uses of the term "light" in the Bible. It is often used as a metaphor for righteousness, holiness, and truth.

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according to, alike, as, as if, compare, in the same way, just as, liken, likeness, likewise, resemble, similar, similarly, unlike

Definition:

The terms "like" and "likeness" refer to something being the same as, or similar to, something else.

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according to, alike, as, as if, be ... like, become ... like, compare, in the same way, is ... like, just as, like, liken, likeness, likenesses, likewise, resemble, resembled, similar to, similarly, the same, the same way, unlike

locust

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The term "locust" refers to a type of large, flying grasshopper that sometimes flies with many others of its kind in a very destructive swarm that eats all vegetation.

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lots

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A "lot" is a marked object that is chosen from among other similar objects as a way of deciding something. "Casting lots" referred to tossing marked objects onto the ground or other surface.

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allotted, allotted portion, cast lots, chosen by lot, divide up ... by lot, lot, lots

love

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To love another person is to care for that person and do things that will benefit him. There are different meanings for "love" some languages may express using different words:

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lowly

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The terms "lowly" and "lowliness" refer to being poor or having low status. Being lowly can also have the meaning of being humble.

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bring ... down, bring ... low, brings ... down, brings ... low, brought low, low condition, low position, low positions, lowliest, lowliness, lowly, of low condition

lust

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Lust is a very strong desire, usually for something sinful or immoral. To lust is to have lust.

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crave, craves, desirable, desire, desired, desires, lust, lusted, lustful, lusting, lusts, passion, sensual, sensuality

lute

Definition:

A lute is a small, stringed, musical instrument that the Israelites used when they worshiped God.

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manager

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The term "manager" or "steward" in the Bible refers to a servant who was entrusted with taking care of his master's property and business dealings.

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meek

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The term "meek" describes a person who is gentle, submissive, and willing to suffer injustice. Meekness is the ability to be gentle even when harshness or force might seem appropriate.

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member

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mercy

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The terms "mercy" and "merciful" refer to helping people who are in need, especially when they are in a lowly or humbled condition.

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messenger

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mind

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expect, expected, intention, likeminded, mind, minded, mindful, minds, sober, think, think carefully about, thinks, thought, thoughts

miracle

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A "miracle" is something amazing that is not possible unless God causes it to happen.

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mock

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Definition:

The terms "mock," ridicule," "scoff at," and "taunt" all refer to making fun of someone, especially in a cruel way.

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defied, defy, laugh in mockery, laughingstock, mock, mocked, mocker, mockers, mockery, mocking, mocks, ridicule, ridiculed, scoff at, scoffed at, scoffing, taunted, taunting song, taunts

mourn

Related Ideas:

funeral song, grief, grieve, howl, mourner, mournful, sorrow, sorrowful, tears, wail, weep, with tears

Definitions:

The terms "mourn" and "mourning" refer to expressing deep grief, usually in response to the death of someone.

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bitter, cause ... grief, funeral song, grief, grieve, grieved, grieving, howl, howls, mourn, mourned, mourner, mourners, mourners', mournful, mournfully, mourning, mourns, sorrow, sorrowful, sorrows, tears, wail, wailing, wailings, wails, weep, weeping, weeps bitterly, wept, with tears

myrrh

Definition:

Myrrh is an oil or spice that is made from the resin of a myrrh tree that grows in Africa and Asia. It is related to frankincense.

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name

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nation

Definition:

A nation is a large group of people ruled by some form of government. The people of a nation often have the same ancestors and share a common ethnicity.

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neighbor

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The term "neighbor" usually refers to a person who lives nearby. It can also refer more generally to someone who lives in the same community or people group.

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oak

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An oak, or oak tree, is a tall shade tree with a large trunk and wide spreading branches.

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oath

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Definition:

In the Bible, an oath is a formal promise to do something. The person making the oath is required to fulfill that promise. A person who swears an oath commits himself to being faithful and truthful, and by doing so he is saying that God has the right to punish him if he breaks the oath.

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oath, oath-taking, oaths, swear, swear by, swearing, swears, swears by, swore, swore an oath, sworn

obey

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follow, give ear, hear, hold securely, hold to, keep, listen, obedience, obedient

Definition:

The term "obey" means to do what is required or commanded. The term "obedient" describes someone who obeys. "Obedience" is the characteristic that an obedient person has.

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following, give ... ear, hear, heard, hold ... securely, hold to, keep, keeps, kept, listen, listened, listened to, obedience, obedient, obediently, obey, obeyed, obeying, obeys

official

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Definition:

The terms "official" and "officer" refer to people who hold positions within a government or organization. Leaders within the government or organization give the official or officer certain authority and duties to perform as long as he remains in the position.

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offspring

Definition:

The term "offspring" is a general reference to the biological descendants of people or animals.

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oil

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Definition:

Oil is a thick, clear liquid that can be taken from certain plants. In Bible times, oil usually came from olives.

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oil

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Definition:

Oil is a thick, clear liquid that can be taken from certain plants. In Bible times, oil usually came from olives.

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pagan

Definition:

In Bible times, the term "pagan" was used to describe people who worshiped false gods instead of Yahweh.

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palace

Definition:

The term "palace" refers to the building or house where a king lived, along with his family members and servants.

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parable

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Definition:

The term "parable" usually refers to a short story or object lesson that is used to explain or teach a moral truth. It can also refer to a saying that is difficult to understand and about which the hearer will have to think carefully before he can understand what the speaker is teaching.

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partial

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The terms "be partial" and "show partiality" refer to making a choice to treat certain people as more important than other people.

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peace

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Definition:

The term "peace" refers to a state of being or a feeling of having no conflict, anxiety, or fearfulness. A person who is "peaceful" feels calm and assured of being safe and secure.

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perfect

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Definition:

The term "perfect" describes something that has no flaw. To "perfect" something means to work at it until it is excellent and without flaws.

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perish

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The term "perish" means to die or be destroyed, usually as the result of violence or other disaster.

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persecute

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Definition:

The terms "persecute" and "persecution" refer to continually treating a person or a certain group of people in a harsh way that causes harm to them.

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persecute, persecuted, persecuting, persecution, persecutions, persecutor, persecutors

perverse

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Definition:

The terms "perverse," "crooked," and "twisted" are used to describe a person or action that is morally bad. The term "perversely" means "in a perverse manner." To "pervert" something means to twist it or turn it away from what is right or good. "Perversity" is perverse thoughts, words, and actions.

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crooked, crooked ways, perverse, perverse words, perversely, perversion, perversions, perversities, perversity, pervert, perverted, perverting, perverts, twisted

pig

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Definition:

A pig is a type of four-legged, hoofed animal that is raised for meat. Its meat is called "pork." The general term for pigs and related animals is "swine."

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pig

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Definition:

A pig is a type of four-legged, hoofed animal that is raised for meat. Its meat is called "pork." The general term for pigs and related animals is "swine."

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pit

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A "pit" is a deep hole that has been dug in the ground. A "pitfall" is a trap made of a pit that is hidden with a cover. A "quarry" is a pit from which people take valuable stones.

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pit

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Definition:

A "pit" is a deep hole that has been dug in the ground. A "pitfall" is a trap made of a pit that is hidden with a cover. A "quarry" is a pit from which people take valuable stones.

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plead

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The terms "plead" and "pleading" refer to urgently asking someone to do something. A "plea" is an urgent request.

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appeal, asked ... earnestly, cause, earnest appeal, earnest appeals, earnestly appeal, earnestly appealed, humble request, humble requests, legal plea, moved by ... plea, plea, plea for favor, plead, plead ... cause, pleaded, pleading, pleadings, pleads, pleas

possess

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The terms "possess" and "possession" usually refer to owning something. They can also mean to gain control over something or occupy an area of land.

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belongings, dispossess, possess, possessed, possesses, possessing, possession, possessions, property, took possession, valuable possessions

power

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ability, able, mastered, can, capable, could, impossible, incapable, powerful, won, unable

Definition:

The term "power" refers to the ability to do things or make things happen, often using great strength. "Powers" refers to people or spirits who have great ability to cause things to happen.

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ability, able, am ... able, are ... able, are ... possible, be ... unable, be able, be mastered, can, cannot, capable, could, could not, impossible, incapable, is ... able, may ... be able, miraculous powers, possible, power, powerful, powerfully, powers, was ... able, were ... able, will ... be able, won

praise

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Definition:

To praise someone is to express admiration and honor for that person. Something that is praiseworthy is good and deserves to be praised.

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pray

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Definition:

The terms "pray" and "prayer" refer to talking with God. These terms are used to refer to people trying to talk to a false god.

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pray

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Definition:

The terms "pray" and "prayer" refer to talking with God. These terms are used to refer to people trying to talk to a false god.

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preach

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Definition:

To "preach" means to speak to a group of people, teaching them about God and urging them to obey him.

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priest

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Definition:

In the Bible, a priest was someone who was chosen to offer sacrifices to God on behalf of God's people. The "priesthood" was the name for the office or condition of being a priest.

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priest, priest's, priesthood, priestly, priestly office, priests, priests', served as a priest

prince

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prison

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The term "prison" refers to a place where criminals are kept as a punishment for their crimes. A "prisoner" is someone who has been put in the prison.

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custody, dungeon, held ... in custody, hold ... in custody, holding ... in custody, imprison, imprisoned, imprisonment, imprisonments, imprisons, prison, prisoner, prisoners, prisons

profane

Definition:

To profane something means to act in a way that defiles, pollutes, or disrespects something that is holy.

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profit

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Definition:

In general, the terms "profit" and "profitable" refer to gaining something good through doing certain actions or behaviors.

Something is "profitable" to someone if it brings them good things or if it helps them bring about good things for other people.

To "take advantage of" someone is to make extra profit from him because he is weak and unable to demand greater return.

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promise

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A promise is a pledge to do a certain thing. When someone promises something, it means he is committing to do something.

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prophet

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Definition:

A "prophet" is a man who speaks God's messages to people. A woman who does this is called a "prophetess."

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give ... prophecies, prophecies, prophecy, prophesied, prophesies, prophesy, prophesying, prophet, prophet's, prophetess, prophetic, prophets, seer, seer's, seers, seers'

prophet

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Definition:

A "prophet" is a man who speaks God's messages to people. A woman who does this is called a "prophetess."

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give ... prophecies, prophecies, prophecy, prophesied, prophesies, prophesy, prophesying, prophet, prophet's, prophetess, prophetic, prophets, seer, seer's, seers, seers'

prostitute

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Definition:

The terms "prostitute" and "harlot" both refer to a person who performs sexual acts for money or for religious rites. Prostitutes or harlots were usually female, but some were male.

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act like a prostitute, acted like a prostitute, acted like prostitutes, prostitute, prostitute's, prostituted, prostitutes, prostitution

punish

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bring down judgment, deal with, inflict punishment, judgment, punishment, unpunished

Definition:

The term "punish" means to cause someone to suffer a negative consequence for doing something wrong. The term "punishment" refers to the negative consequence that is given as a result of that wrong behavior.

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bring down judgment, go ... unpunished, inflicted punishment, inflicting punishment, judgment, leave ... unpunished, punish, punished, punishes, punishing, punishment, unpunished

punish

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bring down judgment, deal with, inflict punishment, judgment, punishment, unpunished

Definition:

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bring down judgment, go ... unpunished, inflicted punishment, inflicting punishment, judgment, leave ... unpunished, punish, punished, punishes, punishing, punishment, unpunished

pure

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Definition:

To be "pure" means to have no flaw or to have nothing mixed in that is not supposed to be there. To purify something is to cleanse it and remove anything that contaminates or pollutes it.

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impure, impure thing, impurities, impurity, pure, purer, purge, purification, purified, purifies, purify, purity, refine, refined, refiner, refiner's, refining

quench

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The term "quench" means to stop something that is demanding to be satisfied. The expression "put out" can also mean the same.

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rage

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Rage is excessive anger what is out of control. When someone rages, it means that person is expressing anger in a destructive way.

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raise

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Definition:

To "rise" or "arise" means to "go up" or "get up." The terms "risen," "rose," and "arose" express past action.

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arise, arisen, arises, raise, raise up, raised, raises, raising, raising up, rise, rise up, risen, rises, rising, rose

ransom

Definition:

The term "ransom" refers to a sum of money or other payment that is demanded or paid for the release of a person who is held captive.

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reap

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The term "reap" means to harvest crops such as grain. A "reaper" is someone who harvests the crop.

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rebuke

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Definition:

To rebuke is to give someone a stern verbal correction, often in order to help that person turn away from sin. Such a correction is a rebuke.

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correct, corrected, correction, corrections, corrects, give correction, rebuke, rebuked, rebukes

receive

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Definition:

The term "receive" generally means to get or accept something that is given, offered, or presented.

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abstain, receive, receive back, received, received ... in full, receiver, receives, receiving

reconcile

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Definition:

The term "reconcile" refers to "making peace" between people who were formerly enemies of each other. "Reconciliation" is that act of making peace

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reed

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The term "reed" refers to a plant with a long stalk that grows in the water, usually along the edge of a river or stream.

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reign

Definition:

The term to "reign" means to rule over the people of a particular country or kingdom. The reign of a king is the time period during which he is ruling.

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reject

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Definition:

To "reject" someone or something means to refuse to accept that person or thing. The term "reject" can also mean to "refuse to believe in" something. To reject God or his laws means to refuse to obey him.

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denied, denies, deny, despise, despised, despises, refuse, refused, reject, rejected, rejecting, rejection, rejects, scorn, scorns, set ... aside, sets ... aside, stay away from, throw away, tossed aside

repent

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Definition:

The terms "repent" and "repentance" refer to turning away from sin and turning back to God.

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change ... mind, changed ... mind, hold back, regret, regretted, relent, relented, relenting, repent, repentance, repented, repents

report

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Definition:

The term to "report" means to tell people about something that happened, often giving details about that event. A "report" is what is told, and can be spoken or written.

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account, accounts, bring ... report, brought ... news, brought ... report, gave ... a full account, give ... a full account, news, report, reported, reports, rumor, rumors, spread ... about

rest

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Definition:

The term to "rest" literally means to stop working. Usually it means to stop working in order to relax or regain strength. A "rest" is what someone has when he stops working. To "rest secure" is to feel safe. To "rest" an object on something means to "place" or "put" it there. An object that is "resting" somewhere is simply in that place. A boat that "comes to rest" somewhere has "stopped" or "landed" there. The phrase "the rest of" refers to the remainder of something.

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at ease, be at rest, give ... rest, pause, refresh, refreshed, relief, rest, rest secure, rested, rested secure, resting, resting place, resting places, restless, rests

rest

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at ease, be at rest, give ... rest, pause, refresh, refreshed, relief, rest, rest secure, rested, rested secure, resting, resting place, resting places, restless, rests

restore

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Definition:

The terms "restore" and "restoration" refer to causing something to return to its original and better condition.

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bring back, mending, recover, restoration, restore, restored, restorer, restores, restoring, reverse

resurrection

Definition:

The term "resurrection" refers to the act of becoming alive again after having died.

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return

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reveal

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Definition:

The term "reveal" means to cause something to be known. A "revelation" is something that has been made known.

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reward

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Definition:

The term "reward" refers to what a person receives or earns because of something he has done, either good or bad. To "reward" someone is to give someone something he deserves.

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pay, pay ... back, pays ... back, payment, penalty, prize, recompense, repay, repayment, retribution, reward, rewarded, rewarder, rewarding, rewards, wage, wages

right hand

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Definition:

The figurative expression "right hand" refers to the place of honor or strength on the right side of a ruler or other important individual.

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righteous

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Definition:

The term "righteousness" refers to God's absolute goodness, justice, faithfulness, and love. Having these qualities makes God "righteous." Because God is righteous, he must condemn sin.

The term "unrighteous" means to be sinful and morally corrupt. "Unrighteousness" can refer to sin or the condition of being sinful.

The terms "upright" and "uprightness" refer to acting in a way that follows God's laws.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

acts rightly, do right, does what is right, in the right, made ... appear ... righteous, right treatment, righteous, righteously, righteousness, rightful, that are right, that is right, unrighteous, unrighteously, unrighteousness, upright, uprightly, uprightness, what is ... right, what was right

robe

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Definition:

A robe is an outer garment with long sleeves that can be worn by a man or a woman. It is similar to a coat.

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rod

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Definition:

The term "rod" refers to a narrow, solid, stick-like tool that was used in several different ways. It was probably at least a meter in length.

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rod

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "rod" refers to a narrow, solid, stick-like tool that was used in several different ways. It was probably at least a meter in length.

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ruler

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Definition:

The term "ruler" is a general reference to a person who has authority over other people, such as a leader of a country, kingdom, or religious group. A ruler is one who "rules," and his authority is his "rule."

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run

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Definition:

Literally the term "run" means "move very quickly on foot," usually at a greater speed than can be accomplished by walking. To "run after" or "pursue" someone or something is to move as quickly as possible to try to catch that person or thing. To run away from someone or something is to "flee."

This main meaning of "run" is also used in figurative expressions such as the following:

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Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

caused ... to flee, fled, flee, fleeing, flees, flow, flows, moving swiftly, ran, run, runner, runners, running, runs

sackcloth

Definition:

Sackcloth was a coarse, scratchy type of cloth that was made from goat hair or camel hair.

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sacrifice

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Definition:

In the Bible, the terms "sacrifice" and "offering" refer to special gifts given to God as an act of worshiping him. People also offered sacrifices to false gods.

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burn ... sacrifices, offer, offered, offering, offerings, sacrifice, sacrificed, sacrifices, sacrificing

sanctuary

Definition:

The term "sanctuary" literally means "holy place" and refers to a place that God has made sacred and holy. It also can refer to a place that provides protection and safety.

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sandal

Definition:

A sandal is a simple flat-soled shoe held onto the foot by straps that go around the foot or ankle. Sandals are worn by both men and women.

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save

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Definition:

The term "save" refers to keeping someone from experiencing something bad or harmful. To "be safe" means to be protected from harm or danger.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

be made well, brought safely, brought safely through, place of safety, preserve, safe, safely, safety, salvation, save, saved, saves, saving

save

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Definition:

The term "save" refers to keeping someone from experiencing something bad or harmful. To "be safe" means to be protected from harm or danger.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

be made well, brought safely, brought safely through, place of safety, preserve, safe, safely, safety, salvation, save, saved, saves, saving

scribe

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Definition:

Scribes were officials who were responsible for writing or copying important government or religious documents by hand. Another name for a Jewish scribe was "expert in Jewish law."

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seal

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Definition:

To seal an object means to keep it closed with something that makes it impossible to open without breaking the seal.

Picture of a Sealed scroll:

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seed

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Definition:

A seed is the part of a plant that gets planted in the ground to reproduce more of the same kind of plant. It also has several figurative meanings.

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seek

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Definition:

The term "seek" means to look for something or someone. The past tense is "sought." It can also mean "try hard" or "make an effort" to do something.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

diligently seek, go to find, look out for, looked for, looking for, looks for, search, search carefully, search for, searched, searched for, searched out, searches ... out, searches for, searching, searching for, seek, seek ... out, seeking, seeks, sought, tried, try, trying

seize

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Definition:

The term "seize" means to take or capture someone or something by force. It can also mean to overpower and control someone.

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send

Definition:

To "send" is to cause someone or something to go somewhere. To "send out" someone is to tell that person to go on an errand or a mission.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

send, send ... away, send ... on ... way, send out, sending, sending out, sends, sends out, sent, sent ... away, sent out

send

Definition:

To "send" is to cause someone or something to go somewhere. To "send out" someone is to tell that person to go on an errand or a mission.

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Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

send, send ... away, send ... on ... way, send out, sending, sending out, sends, sends out, sent, sent ... away, sent out

serpent

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Definitions:

These terms all refer to a kind of reptile that has a long, thin body and large, fanged jaws, and that moves by slithering back and forth across the ground. The term "serpent" usually refers to a large snake. The terms "viper," "adder," and "asp" refer to types of snakes that have venom which they uses to poison their prey.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

adder, adders, asp, asps, serpent, serpent's, serpents, snake, snakes, viper, viper's, vipers

servant

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Definition:

The word "servant" refers to a person who works for another person, either by choice or by force. Some servants were slaves, and the surrounding text usually makes it clear whether or not a particular servant was a slave. In Bible times, there was less of a difference between a servant and a slave than there is today. Both servants and slaves were an important part of their master's household and many were treated almost like members of the family. Sometimes a servant would choose to become a lifetime servant to his master.

The word "serve" means to do things to help other people. It can also mean to "worship."

The word "service" refers to the work that a servant does. It may also refer to worship.

Bible References

Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

female servant, female servants, hired servant, hired servants, hired worker, maidservants, male servant, male servants, office, offices, one who serves, servant, servant girl, servant girls, servant's, servants, servants', serve, served, serves, service, services, serving

sexual immorality

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Definition:

The term "sexual immorality" refers to sexual activity that takes place outside the marriage relationship of a man and a woman. This is against God's plan. Older English Bible versions call this "fornication."

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fornicate, fornicates, fornication, fornications, immoral, immorality, sexual immorality

shadow

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Definition:

The word "shadow" literally refers to the darkness that is caused by an object blocking the light. The shadow has a shape similar to the shape of the object that blocks the light.

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shame

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Definition:

The term "shame" refers to a painful feeling of being disgraced a person has because of something dishonorable or improper that he or someone else has done.

Sometimes the word "shame" is used figuratively to refer to a person's nakedness or private parts.

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Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

ashamed, make ... ashamed, put ... to shame, shame, shamed, shameful, shamefully, shameless, shamelessly, shames, unashamed

sheep

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Definition:

A "sheep" is a medium-sized animal with four legs that has wool all over its body. A male sheep is called a "ram." A female sheep is called a "ewe." The plural of "sheep" is also "sheep."

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

ewe, ewes, ram, ram's, rams, sheep, sheepfold, sheepfolds, sheepshearers, sheepskins

shepherd

Definition:

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chief shepherd, herdsman, herdsmen, keeper, shepherd, shepherd's, shepherded, shepherding, shepherds

sign

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Definition:

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demonstration, evidence, mark, marker, omen, omens, proof, remind, reminded, reminder, reminders, reminding, reminds, sign, signal, signal flag, signs

silver

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Definition:

Silver is a shiny, gray precious metal used to make coins, jewelry, containers, and ornaments.

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sin

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "sin" refers to actions, thoughts, and words that are against God's will and laws. Sin can also refer to not doing something that God wants us to do.

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sin

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "sin" refers to actions, thoughts, and words that are against God's will and laws. Sin can also refer to not doing something that God wants us to do.

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sister

Definition:

A sister is a female person who shares at least one biological parent with another person. She is said to be that other person’s sister or the sister of that other person.

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slander

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Definition:

Slander consists of negative, defaming things spoken (not written) about another person. To say such things (not to write them) about someone is to slander that person. The person saying such things is a slanderer.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

slander, slandered, slanderer, slanderers, slandering, slanderous, slanders, speak evil about, spoken of as evil

snow

Definitions:

The term "snow" refers to white flakes of frozen water that can fall from clouds in places where the air temperature is cold.

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son

Definition:

The male offspring of a man and a woman is called their "son" for his entire life. He is also called a son of that man and a son of that woman. An "adopted son" is a male who has been legally placed into the position of being a son.

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son

Definition:

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sons of God

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Definition:

The term "sons of God" is a figurative expression that has several possible meanings.

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soul

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Definition:

The soul is the inner, invisible part of a person. It refers to the non-physical part of a person. It is the part of a person that continues living after the body dies.

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sow

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Definition:

A "plant" is generally something that grows and is attached to the ground. To "plant" something is to put it in the ground so that it can grow. To "sow" is to scatter seeds on the ground so they can go into the ground and grow. A "sower" is a person who sows seeds.

Translations Suggestions

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

place ... planted, plant, plantation, planted, planting, plants, replanted, sow, sowed, sowing, sown, sows, transplanted

spirit

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Definition:

The term "spirit" refers to the non-physical part of people which cannot be seen. When a person dies, his spirit leaves his body. "Spirit" can also refer to an attitude or emotional state.

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spirit

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "spirit" refers to the non-physical part of people which cannot be seen. When a person dies, his spirit leaves his body. "Spirit" can also refer to an attitude or emotional state.

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staff

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stone

Definition:

A stone is a small rock. To "stone" someone is to throw stones and larger rocks at that person with the intention of killing him. A "stoning" is an event in which someone was stoned.

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stone

Definition:

A stone is a small rock. To "stone" someone is to throw stones and larger rocks at that person with the intention of killing him. A "stoning" is an event in which someone was stoned.

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storehouse

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Definition:

A "storehouse" is a large building that is used for keeping food or other things, often for a long time.

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barn, barns, storage, store cities, storehouse, storehouses, storerooms, treasure, treasures, treasuries, treasury

stumble

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Definition:

The term "stumble" means "almost fall" when walking or running. Usually it involves tripping over something.

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stumbling block

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Definition:

The term "stumbling block" or "stone of stumbling" refers to a physical object that causes a person to trip and fall.

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subject

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Definitions:

A person is the "subject" of another person if the second person rules over the first. To "be subject to" is to "obey" or to "submit to the authority of."

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Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

are subjected, be subject to, be subjected, forced to become slaves, in subjection to, not subjected, subdue, subdued, subject, subject to, subjected, subjection, subjects, was subjected, were subjected

suffer

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Definition:

The terms "suffer" and "suffering" refer to experiencing something very unpleasant, such as illness, pain, or other hardships.

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sword

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Definition:

A sword is a flat-bladed metal weapon used to cut or stab. It has a handle and a long, pointed blade with a very sharp cutting edge.

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synagogue

Definition:

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tax

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Definition:

The terms "tax" and "taxes" refer to money or goods that people pay to a government that is in authority over them. A "tax collector" was a government worker whose job was to receive money that people were required to pay the government in taxes.

Bible References

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

tax, tax collector, tax collectors, taxation, taxed, taxes, taxing, taxpayers, toll, tolls

tax

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Definition:

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tax, tax collector, tax collectors, taxation, taxed, taxes, taxing, taxpayers, toll, tolls

teach

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Definition:

To "teach" someone is to tell him something he doesn’t already know. It can also mean to "provide information" in general, with no reference to the person who is learning. Usually the information is given in a formal or systematic way. A person’s "teaching" is or his "teachings" are what he has taught.

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teacher

Definition:

A teacher is a person who gives other people new information. Teachers help others to obtain and use both knowledge and skills.

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temple

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Definitions:

A temple is a special building in which people worship their god or gods. The most important temple in the Bible was where the Israelites worshiped the true God with prayers and sacrifices. It was located on Mount Moriah in the city of Jerusalem.

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tempt

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tent

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Definition:

A tent is a portable shelter made of sturdy fabric that is draped over a structure of poles and attached to them.

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camp, camped, camping, camps, encamp, encamped, encampments, encamps, tent, tentmakers, tents

tent

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Definition:

A tent is a portable shelter made of sturdy fabric that is draped over a structure of poles and attached to them.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

camp, camped, camping, camps, encamp, encamped, encampments, encamps, tent, tentmakers, tents

test

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Definition:

The term "test" refers to a difficult or painful experience that reveals a person's strengths and weaknesses.

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test

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "test" refers to a difficult or painful experience that reveals a person's strengths and weaknesses.

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testimony

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Definition:

When a person gives "testimony" he makes a statement about something he knows, claiming that the statement is true. To "testify" is to give "testimony."

The term "witness" refers to a person who has personally experienced something that happened. Usually a witness is also someone who testifies about what they know is true. The term "eyewitness" emphasizes that the person was actually there and saw what happened.

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eyewitness, eyewitnesses, testified, testifies, testify, testify against, testifying, testimony, witness, witnessed, witnesses

tetrarch

Definition:

The term "tetrarch" refers to a governing official who ruled over part of the Roman Empire. Each tetrarch was under the authority of the Roman emperor.

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the sea

Facts:

In the Bible, the "Great Sea" or "western sea" refers to what is now called the "Mediterranean Sea," which was the largest body of water known to the people of Bible times.

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the twelve

Related Ideas:

Definition:

The term "the twelve" refers to the twelve men that Jesus chose to be his closest disciples, or apostles. After Judas killed himself, they were called "the eleven."

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thief

Related Ideas:

bandit, booty, loot, marauding band, plunder, raider, revolutionary, rob, robber, robbery, steal

Definitions:

The term "thief" refers to a person who steals money or property from other people. The plural of "thief" is "thieves." The term "robber" often refers to a thief who also physically harms or threatens the people he is stealing from.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

bandits, booty, loot, marauding band, marauding bands, plunder, plundered, plundered things, raiders, raiding parties, raiding party, revolutionary, rob, robbed, robber, robbers, robbery, robbing, robs, steal, stealing, steals, stolen, thief, thieves

thorn

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Definitions:

Thorn bushes and thistles are plants that have prickly branches or flowers. These plants do not produce fruit or anything else that is useful.

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thresh

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Definition:

The terms "thresh" and "threshing" refer to the first part of the process of separating wheat grain from the rest of the wheat plant.

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beat ... out, beaten ... out, floors for threshing, thresh, threshed, threshes, threshing, threshing floor, threshing sledges

throne

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Definition:

A throne is a specially-designed chair where a ruler sits when he decides important matters and listens to requests from his people.

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time

Definitions:

In the Bible the term "time" was often used to refer to a specific season or period of time when certain events took place. It has a meaning similar to "age" or "epoch" or "season."

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time

Definitions:

In the Bible the term "time" was often used to refer to a specific season or period of time when certain events took place. It has a meaning similar to "age" or "epoch" or "season."

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tomb

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Definition:

The terms "tomb" and "grave" refer to a place where people put the body of a person who has died. A "burial place" is a more general term that also refers to this.

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torment

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The term "torment" refers to terrible suffering. To "torment" or "torture" someone means to cause that person to suffer, often in a cruel way.

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tradition

Definition:

The term "tradition" refers to a custom or practice that has been kept over time and which is passed down to people in later generations.

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trample

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Definition:

To "tread" on something is to step on it. To "trample" something is to step on it and smash it with the feet.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

trample, trample over, trampled, tramples, trampling, trampling place, tread, treader, treading down, trod, trodden

trespass

Definition:

To "trespass" means to break a law or to violate the rights of another person. A "trespass" is the action of "trespassing."

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tribe

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tribulation

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trouble

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Definition:

A "trouble" is an experience in life that is very difficult and distressing. To "trouble" someone means to "bother" that person or to cause him distress. Something that is "troubling" causes people to feel distressed. Someone who is troublesome causes problems. To be "troubled" means to feel upset or anxious or distressed about something.

A "tumult" is a group of people making much noise because they are troubled or unhappy.

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trumpet

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Definition:

The term "trumpet" refers to an instrument for producing music or for calling people to gather together for an announcement or meeting.

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trust

Related Ideas:

Definition:

To "trust" something or someone is to believe that the thing or person is true or dependable. That belief is also called "trust." A "trustworthy" person is one you can trust to do and say what is right and true, and therefore one who has the quality of "trustworthiness."

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entrust, entrusted, entrusting, trust, trusted, trusting, trusts, trustworthiness, trustworthy

trust

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entrust, entrusted, entrusting, trust, trusted, trusting, trusts, trustworthiness, trustworthy

tunic

Definition:

In the Bible, the term "tunic" referred to a garment that was worn next to the skin, under other clothing.

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turn

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Definition:

To "turn" means to physically change direction or to cause something else to change direction.

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acts of apostasy, apostasy, apostate, turn, turn ... away, turned, turned ... away, turned ... away ... in disgust, turned ... back, turning, turning ... away, turns, turns ... away, turns ... away from

twelve tribes of Israel

Related Ideas:

children of Israel, descendants of Israel, people of Israel, twelve tribes, twelve tribes of the children of Israel, twelve tribes of the sons of Israel

Definition:

The term "twelve tribes of Israel" refers to the twelve sons of Jacob and their descendants.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

children of Israel, descendants of Israel, people of Israel, twelve tribes, twelve tribes of Israel, twelve tribes of the children of Israel, twelve tribes of the sons of Israel

understand

Related Ideas:

argument, craftiness, insight, intelligent, realize, unintentionally, without understanding

Definition:

The term "understand" means to hear or receive information and know what it means.

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arguments, craftiness, gain understanding, gives ... insight, insight, intelligent, realize, realized, understand, understanding, understands, understood, unintentionally, without understanding

unleavened bread

Definition:

The term "unleavened bread" refers to bread that is made without yeast or other leavening. This kind of bread is flat because it has no leaven to make it rise.

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vain

Related Ideas:

for no reason, for nothing, futile, futility, meaningless, of no value, useless, vanity

Definition:

The term "vain" describes things that are useless or have no purpose. Vain things are worthless.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

for no reason, for nothing, futile, futility, meaningless, of no value, useless, uselessly, vain, vain plans, vanity, without meaning

vine

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Definition:

The term "vine" refers to a plant that grows by trailing along the ground or by climbing trees and other structures. The word "vine" in the Bible is used only of fruit-bearing vines and usually refers to grape vines.

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vineyard

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Definition:

A vineyard is a large garden area where grapevines are grown and grapes are cultivated.

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virgin

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vision

Definitions:

The term "vision" refers to something that a person sees. It especially refers to something unusual or supernatural that God shows people in order to give them a message.

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voice

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Definition:

The term “voice” refers to sound that a person makes when speaking or singing. The term "voice" is often used figuratively to refer to speaking or communicating something.

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walk

Definition:

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waste

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laid waste, lays waste, waste, waste away, wasted, wasteland, wastelands, wastes, wastes away, wasting

watch

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The term "watch" means to look at something very closely and carefully. It also has several figurative meanings.

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keep ... watch, kept ... watch, watch, watch out, watched, watchful, watching, watchman, watchmen

watchtower

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Definition:

The term "watchtower" refers to a tall structure built as a place from which guards could look out for any danger. These towers were often made of stone.

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water

Definition:

In addition to its primary meaning, "water" also often refers to a body of water, such as an ocean, sea, lake, or river.

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water

Definition:

In addition to its primary meaning, "water" also often refers to a body of water, such as an ocean, sea, lake, or river.

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week

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well

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Definition:

The terms "well" and "cistern" refer to two different kinds of sources for water in Bible times.

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wheat

Definition:

Wheat is a type of grain that people grow for food. When the Bible mentions "grain" or "seeds," it is often talking about wheat grain or seeds.

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wine

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Definition:

In the Bible, the term "wine" refers to a kind of fermented drink made from the juice of a fruit called grapes. Wine was stored in "wineskins," which were containers made out of animal skin.

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winepress

Definition:

During Bible times, a "winepress" was a large container or open place where the juice of grapes was extracted in order to make wine.

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winnow

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Definition:

The terms "winnow" and "sift" mean to separate grain from unwanted materials. In the Bible, both words are also used in a figurative sense to refer to separating or dividing people.

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wise

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Definition:

The term "wise" describes someone who understands what is the right and moral thing to do and then does that. "Wisdom" is the understanding and practice of what is true and morally right.

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wise men

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In the Bible, the phrase "wise men" often refers to men who serve God and act wisely, not foolishly. The term "wise men" or "educated men" is also a special term that refers to men with unusual knowledge and abilities who served as part of a king's court.

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woe

Definition:

The term "woe" refers to a feeling of great distress. It also gives a warning that someone will experience severe trouble.

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wolf

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womb

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Definition:

Picture showing location of a Womb:

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word

Definition:

A "word" refers to something that someone has said. In the Bible, it almost always refers to an entire message, not just one word.

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word of God

Related Ideas:

God's word, his words, my word, scripture, word of Yahweh, word of the Lord, word of truth, writings

Definition:

In the Bible, the term "word of God" refers to anything that God has communicated to people. This includes spoken and written messages. Jesus is also called "the Word of God."

The term "word of truth" is another way of referring to "God's word," which is his message or teaching. It does not refer to just one word.

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Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

God's word, God's words, his words, my word, scripture, scriptures, word of God, word of Yahweh, word of the Lord, word of truth, words of God, writings

work

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Definition:

In the Bible, the terms "work," "deed," and "act" are used to refer generally to things that God or people do.

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Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

act, action, actions, activities, acts, deed, deeds, fellow worker, fellow workers, work, works

work

Related Ideas:

Definition:

In the Bible, the terms "work," "deed," and "act" are used to refer generally to things that God or people do.

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Word Data:

Forms Found in the English ULB:

act, action, actions, activities, acts, deed, deeds, fellow worker, fellow workers, work, works

world

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Definition:

The term "world" usually refers to the part of the universe where people live: the earth. The term "worldly" describes the evil values and behaviors of people living in this world.

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worship

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worthy

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Definition:

The term "worthy" describes someone or something that deserves respect or honor. To "have worth" means to be valuable or important.

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

deserve, deserved, deserves, deserving, nullify, unworthy, worth, worthily, worthless, worthlessness, worthy

wrath

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Definition:

Wrath is an intense anger that is sometimes long-lasting. It especially refers to God's righteous judgment of sin and punishment of people who rebel against him.

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wrong

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Forms Found in the English ULB:

defraud, hurt, hurting, hurts, mistreat, mistreated, wrong, wrongdoer, wrongdoing, wronged, wrongfully, wronging, wrongs

year

Definition:

When used literally, the term "year" in the Bible refers to a period of time lasting 354 days. This is according to the lunar calendar system which is based on the time it takes for the moon to go around the earth.

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Word Data:

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yeast

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Definition:

"Leaven" is a general term for a substance that causes bread dough to expand and rise. "Yeast" is a specific kind of leaven.

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yoke

Definition:

A yoke is a piece of wood or metal attached to two or more animals to connect them for the purpose of pulling a plow or a cart. There are also several figurative meanings for this term.

Bislama: Bible for Matthew

English: Bible Commentary, Condensed Translation Notes, Translation Words, Unlocked Literal Bible for Matthew

Formatted for Translators

Matthew

Introduction to the Gospel of Matthew

Overview

Who wrote this gospel?

To whom did Matthew write?

What did Mattew write about in this gospel?

Why did Matthew write this gospel?

Outline of the Gospel of Matthew

Matthew

Matthew Commentary

1:1-17

Why did Matthew write about Jesus’ ancestors?

What does the name, “Jesus,” mean?

1:18-25

What did it mean “to be pregnant by the Holy Spirit”?

What did it mean that Joseph was a “righteous man”?

What did the words, “disgrace her publicly” mean in Joseph’s day.

What did Matthew mean with the words, “fulfill what was spoken”?

What was meant by “he took her as his wife” when Matthew spoke about Joseph and Mary?

Matthew 1:1

The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ

Jesus Christ, son of David, son of Abraham

son of David

Matthew 1:2

Abraham was the father of Isaac

Isaac the father ... Jacob the father

Matthew 1:3

Perez the father ... Hezron the father

Matthew 1:4

Amminadab the father ... Nahshon the father

Matthew 1:5

Salmon was the father of Boaz by Rahab

Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth

Matthew 1:6

David was the father of Solomon by the wife of Uriah

the wife of Uriah

Matthew 1:7

Rehoboam the father of Abijah, Abijah the father of Asa

Matthew 1:8

Joram

Matthew 1:10

Amon

Matthew 1:11

Josiah was an ancestor of Jechoniah

at the time of the deportation to Babylon

Babylon

Matthew 1:16

Mary, by whom Jesus was born

who is called Christ

Matthew 1:18

His mother, Mary, was engaged to marry Joseph

His mother, Mary, was engaged

before they came together

she was found to be pregnant

pregnant by the Holy Spirit

Matthew 1:19

Joseph, her husband

to divorce her quietly

Matthew 1:20

appeared to him in a dream

son of David

the one who is conceived in her is conceived by the Holy Spirit

Matthew 1:21

you will call his name Jesus

for he will save

Matthew 1:22

all this happened

what was spoken by the Lord through the prophet

the prophet

Matthew 1:23

Behold ... Immanuel

Behold, the virgin will become pregnant

Immanuel"—which being translated is, "God with us."

Matthew 1:24

he took her as his wife

Matthew 1:25

he did not know her