The Baptist was languishing in a gloomy dungeon in the castle of Machaerus, on the farther shores of the Dead Sea-like a wild creature of the desert, suddenly entrapped. The darkness of his cell depressed his spirit; it seemed strange, too, if Jesus were the Messiah, that He did not overthrow the tyrant rule of Herod and release His captive friend.
When you are in doubt, go straight to Jesus and ask Him to deal with it! Our Lord did not argue with the messengers sent by John, but pointed to the beneficent works that the Father had given Him to do. See John 5:36; also Isaiah 29:18; Isaiah 35:5-6. The influence of Christ on individuals and the world is the best testimony to the validity of His claims. The demonstration of Christianity is to be found in its acceptance and practice.
The disciples had gone before our Lord uttered this great eulogium on His faithful friend, lest he should be exalted beyond measure, and lest his faith should not have room to grow. Ah, downcast soul, who art writing hard things of thyself, it may be that thy merciful Lord is viewing thy life more accurately and estimating it more lovingly than thou knowest! [source]
Chapter Summary: Matthew 11
1John sends his disciples to Jesus 7Jesus' testimony concerning John 16The perverse judgment of the people concerning the Son 20Jesus upbraids Korazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum; 25and praising his Father's wisdom in revealing the Gospel to the simple, 28he calls to him those who are weary and burdened
Greek Commentary for Matthew 11:3
He that cometh [ο ερχομενος] This phrase refers to the Messiah (Mark 11:9; Luke 13:35; Luke 19:38; Hebrews 10:37; Psalm 118:26; Daniel 7:13). Some rabbis applied the phrase to some forerunner of the kingdom (McNeile). Was there to be “another” It was once clear enough to him, but his environment was depressing and Jesus had done nothing to get him out of Machaerus (see chapter IX in my John the Loyal). John longed for reassurance. [source]
Thou [] Emphatic. Art thou “the Coming One?” - a current phrase for the Messiah. [source]
Luke 7:19Two [δυο τινας] Certain two. Not in Matthew 11:2.Saying (λεγων legōn). John saying by the two messengers. The message is given precisely alike in Matthew 11:3, which see note. In both we have ετερον heteron for “another,” either a second or a different kind. In Luke 7:20 Westcott and Hort read αλλον allon in the text, ετερον heteron in the margin. Προσδοκωμεν Prosdokōmen may be present indicative or present subjunctive (deliberative), the same contract form (αο ω αω ω ao =ō aō ō). [source]
Luke 7:19Saying [λεγων] John saying by the two messengers. The message is given precisely alike in Matthew 11:3, which see note. In both we have ετερον heteron for “another,” either a second or a different kind. In Luke 7:20 Westcott and Hort read αλλον allon in the text, ετερον heteron in the margin. Προσδοκωμεν Prosdokōmen may be present indicative or present subjunctive (deliberative), the same contract form (αο ω αω ω ao =ō aō ō). [source]
John 11:27Yea, Lord [Ναι κυριε] Martha probably did not understand all that Jesus said and meant, but she did believe in the future resurrection, in eternal life for believers in Christ, in the power of Christ to raise even the dead here and now. She had heroic faith and makes now her own confession of faith in words that outrank those of Peter in Matthew 16:16 because she makes hers with her brother dead now four days and with the hope that Jesus will raise him up now. I have believed (πιστευω pepisteuka). Perfect active indicative of οτι συ ει ο Χριστος ο υιος του τεου pisteuō It is my settled and firm faith. Peter uses this same tense in John 6:69. That thou art the Son of God (ο εις τον κοσμον ερχομενος hoti su ei ho Christos ho huios tou theou). The Messiah or the Christ (John 1:41) was to be also “the Son of God” as the Baptist said he had found Jesus to be (John 1:34), as Peter confessed on Hermon for the apostles (Matthew 16:16), as Jesus claimed to be (John 11:41) and confessed on oath before Caiaphas that he was (Matthew 26:63.), and as John stated that it was his purpose to prove in his Gospel (John 20:31). But no one said it under more trying circumstances than Martha. Even he that cometh into the world (ho eis ton kosmon erchomenos). No “even” in the Greek. This was a popular way of putting the people‘s expectation (John 6:14; Matthew 11:3). Jesus himself spoke of his coming into the world (John 9:39; John 16:28; John 8:37). [source]
John 12:13Took [ελαβον] Second aorist active indicative of λαμβανω lambanō The branches of the palm trees Ποινιχ Phoinix is an old word for palm tree (Revelation 7:9 for the branches) and in Acts 27:12 the name of a city. αιον Baion is apparently a word of Egyptian origin, palm branches, here only in N.T., but in the papyri and 1Macc 13:51. Here we have “the palm branches of the palm trees.” The use in 1Macc 13:51 (cf. 2Macc 10:7) is in the account of Simon‘s triumphal entry into Jerusalem. Bernard notes that to carry palms was a mark of triumphant homage to a victor or a king (Revelation 7:9). Palm trees grew on the Mount of Olives (Mark 11:8) on the road from Bethany to Jerusalem. The crowds (one in front and one behind, Mark 11:9; Matthew 21:9; John 2:18) cut the branches as they came (Matthew 21:8). To meet him Literally, for a meeting It was a scene of growing excitement. And cried out Imperfect active of κραυγαζω kraugazō old and rare verb (from κραυγη kraugē) as in Matthew 12:19; John 19:15. Hosannah Transliteration of the Hebrew word meaning “Save now.” The lxx renders it by Σωσον δη Sōson dē (Save now). Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord Perfect passive participle of ευλογεω eulogeō Quotation from Psalm 118:25., written, some think, for the dedication of the second temple, or, as others think, for the feast of tabernacles after the return (Ezra 3:1.). It was sung in the processional recitation then as a welcome to the worshippers. Here the words are addressed to the Messiah as is made plain by the addition of the words, “even the king of Israel” Jesus is here hailed by the multitudes as the long-looked for Messiah of Jewish hope and he allows them so to greet him (Luke 19:38-40), a thing that he prevented a year before in Galilee (John 6:14.). It is probable that “in the name of the Lord” should be taken with “blessed” as in Deuteronomy 21:5; 2 Samuel 6:18; 1 Kings 22:16; 2 Kings 2:24. The Messiah was recognized by Martha as the Coming One (John 11:27) and is so described by the Baptist (Matthew 11:3). Mark (Mark 11:10) adds “the kingdom that cometh” while Luke (John 19:38) has “the king that cometh.” “It was this public acclamation of Jesus as King of Israel or King of the Jews which was the foundation of the charge made against him before Pilate (John 18:33)” (Bernard). [source]
Acts 15:10That ye should put [επιτειναι] Second aorist active infinitive of επιτιτημι epitithēmi epexegetic, explaining the tempting. A yoke upon the neck (ζυγον επι τον τραχηλον zugon epi ton trachēlon). Familiar image of oxen with yokes upon the necks. Paul‘s very image for the yoke of bondage of the Mosaic law in Galatians 5:1. It had probably been used in the private interview. Cf. the words of Jesus about the Pharisees (Matthew 23:4) and how easy and light his own yoke is (Matthew 11:30). Were able to bear Neither our fathers nor we had strength (ισχυω ischuō) to carry this yoke which the Judaizers wish to put on the necks of the Gentiles. Peter speaks as the spiritual emancipator. He had been slow to see the meaning of God‘s dealings with him at Joppa and Caesarea, but he has seen clearly by now. He takes his stand boldly with Paul and Barnabas for Gentile freedom. [source]
Acts 15:10A yoke upon the neck [ζυγον επι τον τραχηλον] Familiar image of oxen with yokes upon the necks. Paul‘s very image for the yoke of bondage of the Mosaic law in Galatians 5:1. It had probably been used in the private interview. Cf. the words of Jesus about the Pharisees (Matthew 23:4) and how easy and light his own yoke is (Matthew 11:30). [source]
Acts 27:9And the voyage was now dangerous [και οντος ηδη επισπαλους] Genitive absolute, “and the voyage being already Because the Fast was now already gone by (δια το και την νηστειαν ηδη παρεληλυτεναι dia to kai tēn nēsteian ēdē parelēluthenai). Accusative (after δια dia) of the articular infinitive perfect active of παρερχομαι parerchomai to pass by, with the accusative of general reference (νηστειαν nēsteian the great day of atonement of the Jews, Leviticus 16:29.) occurring about the end of September. The ancients considered navigation on the Mediterranean unsafe from early October till the middle of March. In a.d. 59 the Fast occurred on Oct. 5. There is nothing strange in Luke using this Jewish note of time as in Acts 20:6 though a Gentile Christian. Paul did it also (1 Corinthians 16:8). It is no proof that Luke was a Jewish proselyte. We do not know precisely when the party left Caesarea (possibly in August), but in ample time to arrive in Rome before October if conditions had been more favourable. But the contrary winds had made the voyage very slow and difficult all the way (Acts 27:7) besides the long delay here in this harbour of Fair Havens. Paul admonished them Imperfect active of παραινεω paraineō old word to exhort from παρα para and αινεω aineō to praise (Acts 3:8), only here and Acts 27:22 in N.T. It is remarkable that a prisoner like Paul should venture to give advice at all and to keep on doing it (imperfect tense inchoative, began to admonish and kept on at it). Paul had clearly won the respect of the centurion and officers and also felt it to be his duty to give this unasked for warning. I perceive (τεωρω theōrō). Old word from τεωρος theōros a spectator. See note on Luke 10:18. Paul does not here claim prophecy, but he had plenty of experience with three shipwrecks already (2 Corinthians 11:25) to justify his apprehension. Will be Infinitive in indirect assertion followed by future infinitive after μελλειν mellein in spite of οτι hoti which would naturally call for present indicative μελλει mellei an anacoluthon due to the long sentence (Robertson, Grammar, p. 478). With injury (μετα υβρεως meta hubreōs). An old word from υπερ huper (above, upper, like our “uppishness”) and so pride, insult, personal injury, the legal word for personal assault (Page). Josephus (Ant. III. 6, 4) uses it of the injury of the elements. Loss Old word, opposite of κερδος kerdos gain or profit (Philemon 3:7.). Nowhere else in N.T. Lading (πορτιου phortiou). Diminutive of πορτος phortos (from περω pherō to bear) only in form. Common word, but in N.T. only here in literal sense, as metaphor in Matthew 11:30; Matthew 23:4; Luke 11:46; Galatians 6:5. But also of our lives Common use of πσυχη psuchē for life, originally “breath of life” (Acts 20:10), and also “soul” (Acts 14:2). Fortunately no lives were lost, though all else was. But this outcome was due to the special mercy of God for the sake of Paul (Acts 27:24), not to the wisdom of the officers in rejecting Paul‘s advice. Paul begins now to occupy the leading role in this marvellous voyage. [source]
Acts 27:9Paul admonished them [παρηινηι ο Παυλος] Imperfect active of παραινεω paraineō old word to exhort from παρα para and αινεω aineō to praise (Acts 3:8), only here and Acts 27:22 in N.T. It is remarkable that a prisoner like Paul should venture to give advice at all and to keep on doing it (imperfect tense inchoative, began to admonish and kept on at it). Paul had clearly won the respect of the centurion and officers and also felt it to be his duty to give this unasked for warning. I perceive (τεωρω theōrō). Old word from τεωρος theōros a spectator. See note on Luke 10:18. Paul does not here claim prophecy, but he had plenty of experience with three shipwrecks already (2 Corinthians 11:25) to justify his apprehension. Will be Infinitive in indirect assertion followed by future infinitive after μελλειν mellein in spite of οτι hoti which would naturally call for present indicative μελλει mellei an anacoluthon due to the long sentence (Robertson, Grammar, p. 478). With injury (μετα υβρεως meta hubreōs). An old word from υπερ huper (above, upper, like our “uppishness”) and so pride, insult, personal injury, the legal word for personal assault (Page). Josephus (Ant. III. 6, 4) uses it of the injury of the elements. Loss Old word, opposite of κερδος kerdos gain or profit (Philemon 3:7.). Nowhere else in N.T. Lading (πορτιου phortiou). Diminutive of πορτος phortos (from περω pherō to bear) only in form. Common word, but in N.T. only here in literal sense, as metaphor in Matthew 11:30; Matthew 23:4; Luke 11:46; Galatians 6:5. But also of our lives Common use of πσυχη psuchē for life, originally “breath of life” (Acts 20:10), and also “soul” (Acts 14:2). Fortunately no lives were lost, though all else was. But this outcome was due to the special mercy of God for the sake of Paul (Acts 27:24), not to the wisdom of the officers in rejecting Paul‘s advice. Paul begins now to occupy the leading role in this marvellous voyage. [source]
Acts 27:9Will be [μελλειν εσεσται] Infinitive in indirect assertion followed by future infinitive after μελλειν mellein in spite of οτι hoti which would naturally call for present indicative μελλει mellei an anacoluthon due to the long sentence (Robertson, Grammar, p. 478). With injury (μετα υβρεως meta hubreōs). An old word from υπερ huper (above, upper, like our “uppishness”) and so pride, insult, personal injury, the legal word for personal assault (Page). Josephus (Ant. III. 6, 4) uses it of the injury of the elements. Loss Old word, opposite of κερδος kerdos gain or profit (Philemon 3:7.). Nowhere else in N.T. Lading (πορτιου phortiou). Diminutive of πορτος phortos (from περω pherō to bear) only in form. Common word, but in N.T. only here in literal sense, as metaphor in Matthew 11:30; Matthew 23:4; Luke 11:46; Galatians 6:5. But also of our lives Common use of πσυχη psuchē for life, originally “breath of life” (Acts 20:10), and also “soul” (Acts 14:2). Fortunately no lives were lost, though all else was. But this outcome was due to the special mercy of God for the sake of Paul (Acts 27:24), not to the wisdom of the officers in rejecting Paul‘s advice. Paul begins now to occupy the leading role in this marvellous voyage. [source]
Acts 27:9Loss [ζημιαν] Old word, opposite of κερδος kerdos gain or profit (Philemon 3:7.). Nowhere else in N.T. Lading (πορτιου phortiou). Diminutive of πορτος phortos (from περω pherō to bear) only in form. Common word, but in N.T. only here in literal sense, as metaphor in Matthew 11:30; Matthew 23:4; Luke 11:46; Galatians 6:5. But also of our lives Common use of πσυχη psuchē for life, originally “breath of life” (Acts 20:10), and also “soul” (Acts 14:2). Fortunately no lives were lost, though all else was. But this outcome was due to the special mercy of God for the sake of Paul (Acts 27:24), not to the wisdom of the officers in rejecting Paul‘s advice. Paul begins now to occupy the leading role in this marvellous voyage. [source]
Romans 3:12Good [χρησττότητα] Only in Paul's writings. The radical idea of the word is profitableness. Compare have become unprofitable. Hence it passes readily into the meaning of wholesomeness. See on Matthew 11:30. It is opposed by Paul to ἀποτομία abruptnessseverity (Romans 11:22). It is rendered kindness in Ephesians 2:7; Colossians 3:12; Galatians 5:22. Paul, and he only, also uses ἀγαθωσύνη for goodness. The distinction as drawn out by Jerome is that ἀγαθωσύνη represents a sterner virtue, showing itself in a zeal for truth which rebukes, corrects, and chastises, as Christ when He purged the temple. Χρηστότης is more gentle, gracious, and kindly Bishop Lightfoot defines it as a kindly disposition to one's neighbor, not necessarily taking a practical form, while ἀγαθωσύνη energizes the χρηστότης . [source]
1 Corinthians 13:4Is kind [χρηστεύεται] Only here in the New Testament. See on χρηστὸς , A.V., easy, Matthew 11:30, and see on χρηστότης good Romans 3:12.“The high charity which makes us servantsPrompt to the counsel which controls the world.”Dante, “Paradiso,” xxi., 70, 71. [source]
2 Corinthians 1:17Did I use lightness [τῇ ἐλαφρίᾳ ἐχρησαμην] Rev., shew fickleness. Ἑλαφρία , lightness, only here in the New Testament. Compare ἐλαφρός light Matthew 11:30; 2 Corinthians 4:17. His change of plan had given rise to the charge of fickleness. [source]
2 Corinthians 1:17Did I shew fickleness? [μητι αρα τηι ελαπριαι] An indignant negative answer is called for by μητι mēti The instrumental case of ελαπριαι elaphriāi is regular after εχρησαμην echrēsamēn from χραομαι chraomai to use. Ελαπρια Elaphria is a late word for levity from the old adjective, ελαπρος elaphros light, agile (2 Corinthians 10:17; Matthew 11:30). Here only in N.T. [source]
2 Corinthians 4:17Our light affliction which is for the moment [το παραυτικα ελαπρον της τλιπεσεως ημων] Literally, “the for the moment (old adverb παραυτικα parautika here only in N.T.) lightness (old word, in N.T. only here and Matthew 11:30).” [source]
Galatians 6:5His own burden [τὸ ἴδιον φορτίον] For ἴδιον ownsee on 1 Timothy 6:1. With φορτίον burdencomp. βάρη burdens Galatians 6:2. It is doubtful whether any different shade of meaning is intended. Originally βάρη emphasizes the weight of the burden, φορτίον simply notes the fact that it is something to be born ( φέρειν ), which may be either light or heavy. See Matthew 11:30; Matthew 23:4; Psalm 37:4; Luke 11:46. Comp. Acts 27:10, the lading of a ship. [source]
Hebrews 10:37He that shall come will come [ὁ ἐρχόμενος ἥξει] Rend. “he that cometh will come.” In the Hebrew (Habakkuk 2:3) the subject of the sentence is the vision of the extermination of the Chaldees. “The vision - will surely come.” As rendered in the lxx, either Jehovah or Messiah must be the subject. The passage was referred to Messiah by the later Jewish theologians, and is so taken by our writer, as is shown by the article before ἐρχόμενος . Comp. Matthew 11:3; Matthew 21:9; John 11:27. Similarly he refers ἥξει shallcome to the final coming of Messiah to judge the world. [source]
1 Peter 2:3Gracious [χρηστὸς] Actively benignant, “as distinguished from other adjectives which describe goodness on the side of its sterling worth and its gentleness ” (Salmond). See on Matthew 11:30. [source]
2 Peter 3:12Looking for [προσδοκωντας] Present active participle of προσδοκαω prosdokaō (Matthew 11:3) agreeing in case (accusative plural) with υμας humās desiring Present active participle, accusative also, of σπευδω speudō old verb, to hasten (like our speed) as in Luke 2:16, but it is sometimes transitive as here either (preferably so) to “hasten on the parousia” by holy living (cf. 1 Peter 2:12), with which idea compare Matthew 6:10; Acts 3:19., or to desire earnestly (Isaiah 16:5). [source]
Revelation 2:24Other burden [ἄλλο βάτος] The words for burden in the New Testament are ὄγκος (only in Hebrews 12:1), βάρος (Matthew 20:12; Galatians 6:2), and φορτίον (Matthew 11:30; Matthew 23:4; Galatians 6:5). ὄγκος refers to bulk, βάρος to weight, φορτίον to a burden so far as it is born ( φέρω ). Thus in Hebrews 12:1, “lay aside every weight ( ὄγκος ),” the figure being that of runners in the race-course, and the word appropriate as denoting the bulky robes and the accoutrements of the ordinary dress which might impede the freedom of the limbs. In Matthew 20:12, “the burden ( βάρος ) and heat of the day,” the idea is that of heavy toil pressing like a weight. So Galatians 6:2, “Bear ye one another's burdens.” But in Galatians 6:5, the emphasis is on the act of bearing; and therefore φορτίον is used: “Every man shall bear his own burden;” i.e., every man shall carry that which it is appointed him to bear. The reference in that passage is probably to the prohibition enjoined by the apostolic council of Jerusalem, which concerned the very things which are rebuked here - fornication and abstinence from idol-meats. In the narrative of that council the phrase occurs “to lay upon you no greater burden ” (Acts 15:28). The meaning accordingly will be, “I put upon you no other burden than abstinence from and protest against these abominations.” [source]
What do the individual words in Matthew 11:3 mean?
saidto HimYouarethecoming [One]oranotherare we to look for
Greek Commentary for Matthew 11:3
This phrase refers to the Messiah (Mark 11:9; Luke 13:35; Luke 19:38; Hebrews 10:37; Psalm 118:26; Daniel 7:13). Some rabbis applied the phrase to some forerunner of the kingdom (McNeile). Was there to be “another” It was once clear enough to him, but his environment was depressing and Jesus had done nothing to get him out of Machaerus (see chapter IX in my John the Loyal). John longed for reassurance. [source]
Emphatic. Art thou “the Coming One?” - a current phrase for the Messiah. [source]
Reverse Greek Commentary Search for Matthew 11:3
The thou is emphatic. See on Matthew 11:3. [source]
See on Matthew 11:30. [source]
The best texts read χρηστός ,good. See on Matthew 11:30. [source]
Certain two. Not in Matthew 11:2.Saying (λεγων legōn). John saying by the two messengers. The message is given precisely alike in Matthew 11:3, which see note. In both we have ετερον heteron for “another,” either a second or a different kind. In Luke 7:20 Westcott and Hort read αλλον allon in the text, ετερον heteron in the margin. Προσδοκωμεν Prosdokōmen may be present indicative or present subjunctive (deliberative), the same contract form (αο ω αω ω ao =ō aō ō). [source]
John saying by the two messengers. The message is given precisely alike in Matthew 11:3, which see note. In both we have ετερον heteron for “another,” either a second or a different kind. In Luke 7:20 Westcott and Hort read αλλον allon in the text, ετερον heteron in the margin. Προσδοκωμεν Prosdokōmen may be present indicative or present subjunctive (deliberative), the same contract form (αο ω αω ω ao =ō aō ō). [source]
Martha probably did not understand all that Jesus said and meant, but she did believe in the future resurrection, in eternal life for believers in Christ, in the power of Christ to raise even the dead here and now. She had heroic faith and makes now her own confession of faith in words that outrank those of Peter in Matthew 16:16 because she makes hers with her brother dead now four days and with the hope that Jesus will raise him up now. I have believed (πιστευω pepisteuka). Perfect active indicative of οτι συ ει ο Χριστος ο υιος του τεου pisteuō It is my settled and firm faith. Peter uses this same tense in John 6:69. That thou art the Son of God (ο εις τον κοσμον ερχομενος hoti su ei ho Christos ho huios tou theou). The Messiah or the Christ (John 1:41) was to be also “the Son of God” as the Baptist said he had found Jesus to be (John 1:34), as Peter confessed on Hermon for the apostles (Matthew 16:16), as Jesus claimed to be (John 11:41) and confessed on oath before Caiaphas that he was (Matthew 26:63.), and as John stated that it was his purpose to prove in his Gospel (John 20:31). But no one said it under more trying circumstances than Martha. Even he that cometh into the world (ho eis ton kosmon erchomenos). No “even” in the Greek. This was a popular way of putting the people‘s expectation (John 6:14; Matthew 11:3). Jesus himself spoke of his coming into the world (John 9:39; John 16:28; John 8:37). [source]
Second aorist active indicative of λαμβανω lambanō The branches of the palm trees Ποινιχ Phoinix is an old word for palm tree (Revelation 7:9 for the branches) and in Acts 27:12 the name of a city. αιον Baion is apparently a word of Egyptian origin, palm branches, here only in N.T., but in the papyri and 1Macc 13:51. Here we have “the palm branches of the palm trees.” The use in 1Macc 13:51 (cf. 2Macc 10:7) is in the account of Simon‘s triumphal entry into Jerusalem. Bernard notes that to carry palms was a mark of triumphant homage to a victor or a king (Revelation 7:9). Palm trees grew on the Mount of Olives (Mark 11:8) on the road from Bethany to Jerusalem. The crowds (one in front and one behind, Mark 11:9; Matthew 21:9; John 2:18) cut the branches as they came (Matthew 21:8). To meet him Literally, for a meeting It was a scene of growing excitement. And cried out Imperfect active of κραυγαζω kraugazō old and rare verb (from κραυγη kraugē) as in Matthew 12:19; John 19:15. Hosannah Transliteration of the Hebrew word meaning “Save now.” The lxx renders it by Σωσον δη Sōson dē (Save now). Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord Perfect passive participle of ευλογεω eulogeō Quotation from Psalm 118:25., written, some think, for the dedication of the second temple, or, as others think, for the feast of tabernacles after the return (Ezra 3:1.). It was sung in the processional recitation then as a welcome to the worshippers. Here the words are addressed to the Messiah as is made plain by the addition of the words, “even the king of Israel” Jesus is here hailed by the multitudes as the long-looked for Messiah of Jewish hope and he allows them so to greet him (Luke 19:38-40), a thing that he prevented a year before in Galilee (John 6:14.). It is probable that “in the name of the Lord” should be taken with “blessed” as in Deuteronomy 21:5; 2 Samuel 6:18; 1 Kings 22:16; 2 Kings 2:24. The Messiah was recognized by Martha as the Coming One (John 11:27) and is so described by the Baptist (Matthew 11:3). Mark (Mark 11:10) adds “the kingdom that cometh” while Luke (John 19:38) has “the king that cometh.” “It was this public acclamation of Jesus as King of Israel or King of the Jews which was the foundation of the charge made against him before Pilate (John 18:33)” (Bernard). [source]
Second aorist active infinitive of επιτιτημι epitithēmi epexegetic, explaining the tempting. A yoke upon the neck (ζυγον επι τον τραχηλον zugon epi ton trachēlon). Familiar image of oxen with yokes upon the necks. Paul‘s very image for the yoke of bondage of the Mosaic law in Galatians 5:1. It had probably been used in the private interview. Cf. the words of Jesus about the Pharisees (Matthew 23:4) and how easy and light his own yoke is (Matthew 11:30). Were able to bear Neither our fathers nor we had strength (ισχυω ischuō) to carry this yoke which the Judaizers wish to put on the necks of the Gentiles. Peter speaks as the spiritual emancipator. He had been slow to see the meaning of God‘s dealings with him at Joppa and Caesarea, but he has seen clearly by now. He takes his stand boldly with Paul and Barnabas for Gentile freedom. [source]
Familiar image of oxen with yokes upon the necks. Paul‘s very image for the yoke of bondage of the Mosaic law in Galatians 5:1. It had probably been used in the private interview. Cf. the words of Jesus about the Pharisees (Matthew 23:4) and how easy and light his own yoke is (Matthew 11:30). [source]
Genitive absolute, “and the voyage being already Because the Fast was now already gone by (δια το και την νηστειαν ηδη παρεληλυτεναι dia to kai tēn nēsteian ēdē parelēluthenai). Accusative (after δια dia) of the articular infinitive perfect active of παρερχομαι parerchomai to pass by, with the accusative of general reference (νηστειαν nēsteian the great day of atonement of the Jews, Leviticus 16:29.) occurring about the end of September. The ancients considered navigation on the Mediterranean unsafe from early October till the middle of March. In a.d. 59 the Fast occurred on Oct. 5. There is nothing strange in Luke using this Jewish note of time as in Acts 20:6 though a Gentile Christian. Paul did it also (1 Corinthians 16:8). It is no proof that Luke was a Jewish proselyte. We do not know precisely when the party left Caesarea (possibly in August), but in ample time to arrive in Rome before October if conditions had been more favourable. But the contrary winds had made the voyage very slow and difficult all the way (Acts 27:7) besides the long delay here in this harbour of Fair Havens. Paul admonished them Imperfect active of παραινεω paraineō old word to exhort from παρα para and αινεω aineō to praise (Acts 3:8), only here and Acts 27:22 in N.T. It is remarkable that a prisoner like Paul should venture to give advice at all and to keep on doing it (imperfect tense inchoative, began to admonish and kept on at it). Paul had clearly won the respect of the centurion and officers and also felt it to be his duty to give this unasked for warning. I perceive (τεωρω theōrō). Old word from τεωρος theōros a spectator. See note on Luke 10:18. Paul does not here claim prophecy, but he had plenty of experience with three shipwrecks already (2 Corinthians 11:25) to justify his apprehension. Will be Infinitive in indirect assertion followed by future infinitive after μελλειν mellein in spite of οτι hoti which would naturally call for present indicative μελλει mellei an anacoluthon due to the long sentence (Robertson, Grammar, p. 478). With injury (μετα υβρεως meta hubreōs). An old word from υπερ huper (above, upper, like our “uppishness”) and so pride, insult, personal injury, the legal word for personal assault (Page). Josephus (Ant. III. 6, 4) uses it of the injury of the elements. Loss Old word, opposite of κερδος kerdos gain or profit (Philemon 3:7.). Nowhere else in N.T. Lading (πορτιου phortiou). Diminutive of πορτος phortos (from περω pherō to bear) only in form. Common word, but in N.T. only here in literal sense, as metaphor in Matthew 11:30; Matthew 23:4; Luke 11:46; Galatians 6:5. But also of our lives Common use of πσυχη psuchē for life, originally “breath of life” (Acts 20:10), and also “soul” (Acts 14:2). Fortunately no lives were lost, though all else was. But this outcome was due to the special mercy of God for the sake of Paul (Acts 27:24), not to the wisdom of the officers in rejecting Paul‘s advice. Paul begins now to occupy the leading role in this marvellous voyage. [source]
Imperfect active of παραινεω paraineō old word to exhort from παρα para and αινεω aineō to praise (Acts 3:8), only here and Acts 27:22 in N.T. It is remarkable that a prisoner like Paul should venture to give advice at all and to keep on doing it (imperfect tense inchoative, began to admonish and kept on at it). Paul had clearly won the respect of the centurion and officers and also felt it to be his duty to give this unasked for warning. I perceive (τεωρω theōrō). Old word from τεωρος theōros a spectator. See note on Luke 10:18. Paul does not here claim prophecy, but he had plenty of experience with three shipwrecks already (2 Corinthians 11:25) to justify his apprehension. Will be Infinitive in indirect assertion followed by future infinitive after μελλειν mellein in spite of οτι hoti which would naturally call for present indicative μελλει mellei an anacoluthon due to the long sentence (Robertson, Grammar, p. 478). With injury (μετα υβρεως meta hubreōs). An old word from υπερ huper (above, upper, like our “uppishness”) and so pride, insult, personal injury, the legal word for personal assault (Page). Josephus (Ant. III. 6, 4) uses it of the injury of the elements. Loss Old word, opposite of κερδος kerdos gain or profit (Philemon 3:7.). Nowhere else in N.T. Lading (πορτιου phortiou). Diminutive of πορτος phortos (from περω pherō to bear) only in form. Common word, but in N.T. only here in literal sense, as metaphor in Matthew 11:30; Matthew 23:4; Luke 11:46; Galatians 6:5. But also of our lives Common use of πσυχη psuchē for life, originally “breath of life” (Acts 20:10), and also “soul” (Acts 14:2). Fortunately no lives were lost, though all else was. But this outcome was due to the special mercy of God for the sake of Paul (Acts 27:24), not to the wisdom of the officers in rejecting Paul‘s advice. Paul begins now to occupy the leading role in this marvellous voyage. [source]
Diminutive of πορτος phortos (from περω pherō to bear) only in form. Common word, but in N.T. only here in literal sense, as metaphor in Matthew 11:30; Matthew 23:4; Luke 11:46; Galatians 6:5. [source]
Infinitive in indirect assertion followed by future infinitive after μελλειν mellein in spite of οτι hoti which would naturally call for present indicative μελλει mellei an anacoluthon due to the long sentence (Robertson, Grammar, p. 478). With injury (μετα υβρεως meta hubreōs). An old word from υπερ huper (above, upper, like our “uppishness”) and so pride, insult, personal injury, the legal word for personal assault (Page). Josephus (Ant. III. 6, 4) uses it of the injury of the elements. Loss Old word, opposite of κερδος kerdos gain or profit (Philemon 3:7.). Nowhere else in N.T. Lading (πορτιου phortiou). Diminutive of πορτος phortos (from περω pherō to bear) only in form. Common word, but in N.T. only here in literal sense, as metaphor in Matthew 11:30; Matthew 23:4; Luke 11:46; Galatians 6:5. But also of our lives Common use of πσυχη psuchē for life, originally “breath of life” (Acts 20:10), and also “soul” (Acts 14:2). Fortunately no lives were lost, though all else was. But this outcome was due to the special mercy of God for the sake of Paul (Acts 27:24), not to the wisdom of the officers in rejecting Paul‘s advice. Paul begins now to occupy the leading role in this marvellous voyage. [source]
Old word, opposite of κερδος kerdos gain or profit (Philemon 3:7.). Nowhere else in N.T. Lading (πορτιου phortiou). Diminutive of πορτος phortos (from περω pherō to bear) only in form. Common word, but in N.T. only here in literal sense, as metaphor in Matthew 11:30; Matthew 23:4; Luke 11:46; Galatians 6:5. But also of our lives Common use of πσυχη psuchē for life, originally “breath of life” (Acts 20:10), and also “soul” (Acts 14:2). Fortunately no lives were lost, though all else was. But this outcome was due to the special mercy of God for the sake of Paul (Acts 27:24), not to the wisdom of the officers in rejecting Paul‘s advice. Paul begins now to occupy the leading role in this marvellous voyage. [source]
Only in Paul's writings. The radical idea of the word is profitableness. Compare have become unprofitable. Hence it passes readily into the meaning of wholesomeness. See on Matthew 11:30. It is opposed by Paul to ἀποτομία abruptnessseverity (Romans 11:22). It is rendered kindness in Ephesians 2:7; Colossians 3:12; Galatians 5:22. Paul, and he only, also uses ἀγαθωσύνη for goodness. The distinction as drawn out by Jerome is that ἀγαθωσύνη represents a sterner virtue, showing itself in a zeal for truth which rebukes, corrects, and chastises, as Christ when He purged the temple. Χρηστότης is more gentle, gracious, and kindly Bishop Lightfoot defines it as a kindly disposition to one's neighbor, not necessarily taking a practical form, while ἀγαθωσύνη energizes the χρηστότης . [source]
See on easy, Matthew 11:30. [source]
Only here in the New Testament. See on χρηστὸς , A.V., easy, Matthew 11:30, and see on χρηστότης good Romans 3:12.“The high charity which makes us servantsPrompt to the counsel which controls the world.”Dante, “Paradiso,” xxi., 70, 71. [source]
Rev., shew fickleness. Ἑλαφρία , lightness, only here in the New Testament. Compare ἐλαφρός light Matthew 11:30; 2 Corinthians 4:17. His change of plan had given rise to the charge of fickleness. [source]
An indignant negative answer is called for by μητι mēti The instrumental case of ελαπριαι elaphriāi is regular after εχρησαμην echrēsamēn from χραομαι chraomai to use. Ελαπρια Elaphria is a late word for levity from the old adjective, ελαπρος elaphros light, agile (2 Corinthians 10:17; Matthew 11:30). Here only in N.T. [source]
Literally, “the for the moment (old adverb παραυτικα parautika here only in N.T.) lightness (old word, in N.T. only here and Matthew 11:30).” [source]
For ἴδιον ownsee on 1 Timothy 6:1. With φορτίον burdencomp. βάρη burdens Galatians 6:2. It is doubtful whether any different shade of meaning is intended. Originally βάρη emphasizes the weight of the burden, φορτίον simply notes the fact that it is something to be born ( φέρειν ), which may be either light or heavy. See Matthew 11:30; Matthew 23:4; Psalm 37:4; Luke 11:46. Comp. Acts 27:10, the lading of a ship. [source]
See on good, Romans 3:12; see on easy, Matthew 11:30; see on gracious, 1 Peter 2:3. Better, kindness; a kindness which is useful or serviceable. [source]
Metaphorical, of a burden or bondage. Comp. Matthew 11:29, Matthew 11:30; Acts 15:10; 1 Timothy 6:1. Similarly lxx, Genesis 27:40; Leviticus 26:13; 2 Chronicles 10:4, 2 Chronicles 10:9, 2 Chronicles 10:10, 2 Chronicles 10:11, 2 Chronicles 10:14. So always in N.T. except Revelation 6:5, where it means a pair of scales. See note, and comp. Leviticus 19:35, Leviticus 19:36; Proverbs 11:1; Proverbs 16:11; Hosea 12:7. [source]
See on easy, Matthew 11:30; see on gracious, 1 Peter 2:3. [source]
See on easy, Matthew 11:30. The grace of God is to be displayed in His actual benefits. [source]
Only here in Pastorals. Elsewhere only in Paul. See on Romans 3:12, and see on easy, Matthew 11:30. [source]
Rend. “he that cometh will come.” In the Hebrew (Habakkuk 2:3) the subject of the sentence is the vision of the extermination of the Chaldees. “The vision - will surely come.” As rendered in the lxx, either Jehovah or Messiah must be the subject. The passage was referred to Messiah by the later Jewish theologians, and is so taken by our writer, as is shown by the article before ἐρχόμενος . Comp. Matthew 11:3; Matthew 21:9; John 11:27. Similarly he refers ἥξει shallcome to the final coming of Messiah to judge the world. [source]
Actively benignant, “as distinguished from other adjectives which describe goodness on the side of its sterling worth and its gentleness ” (Salmond). See on Matthew 11:30. [source]
Present active participle of προσδοκαω prosdokaō (Matthew 11:3) agreeing in case (accusative plural) with υμας humās desiring Present active participle, accusative also, of σπευδω speudō old verb, to hasten (like our speed) as in Luke 2:16, but it is sometimes transitive as here either (preferably so) to “hasten on the parousia” by holy living (cf. 1 Peter 2:12), with which idea compare Matthew 6:10; Acts 3:19., or to desire earnestly (Isaiah 16:5). [source]
Referring to the historic fact. See Matthew 11:3; Luke 7:19; John 1:15, John 1:27. Compare, for the form of expression, John 1:33; John 3:13. [source]
The words for burden in the New Testament are ὄγκος (only in Hebrews 12:1), βάρος (Matthew 20:12; Galatians 6:2), and φορτίον (Matthew 11:30; Matthew 23:4; Galatians 6:5). ὄγκος refers to bulk, βάρος to weight, φορτίον to a burden so far as it is born ( φέρω ). Thus in Hebrews 12:1, “lay aside every weight ( ὄγκος ),” the figure being that of runners in the race-course, and the word appropriate as denoting the bulky robes and the accoutrements of the ordinary dress which might impede the freedom of the limbs. In Matthew 20:12, “the burden ( βάρος ) and heat of the day,” the idea is that of heavy toil pressing like a weight. So Galatians 6:2, “Bear ye one another's burdens.” But in Galatians 6:5, the emphasis is on the act of bearing; and therefore φορτίον is used: “Every man shall bear his own burden;” i.e., every man shall carry that which it is appointed him to bear. The reference in that passage is probably to the prohibition enjoined by the apostolic council of Jerusalem, which concerned the very things which are rebuked here - fornication and abstinence from idol-meats. In the narrative of that council the phrase occurs “to lay upon you no greater burden ” (Acts 15:28). The meaning accordingly will be, “I put upon you no other burden than abstinence from and protest against these abominations.” [source]