Commentary on Matthew 17:7

Verse Text: "But Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid."

Introduction

In Matthew 17:7, we find a moment of divine reassurance during a pivotal event in the ministry of Jesus Christ — the Transfiguration. This verse encapsulates the themes of divine presence, comfort, and the transformation of fear into faith. The commentaries from Public Domain sources provide profound insights for pastors, theologians, and Bible scholars, highlighting the significance of this moment both contextually and theologically.

Contextual Analysis

The Transfiguration, occurring shortly after Peter’s declaration of Jesus as the Christ (Matthew 16:16) and prior to His journey to Jerusalem, serves as a pivotal event in the Synoptic Gospels. Commentators such as Matthew Henry emphasize the timing, noting that the apostles were grappling with the reality that Jesus would suffer and die. This moment was crucial for affirming Jesus' divine identity and the glory that awaits, hence the need for reassurance in verse 7.

Analysis of the Phrase "But Jesus Came"

The phrase "But Jesus came" indicates His compassionate response to the fear of the disciples. Albert Barnes highlights that this illustrates Jesus' proactive care; He does not leave the disciples in their fear, but intervenes. The verb used here denotes action and presence, suggesting the comfort that comes from His nearness during moments of crisis.

Adam Clarke adds that this action signifies not just physical proximity but also a spiritual and emotional connection. Jesus does not merely stand aside; He comes to His followers, reflecting the nature of His incarnate mission — to dwell among and identify with humanity in their fears and struggles.

The Touch of Comfort

The act of touching the disciples is crucial. Matthew Henry notes that this touch was one of comfort and reassurance. It symbolizes the personal attention Jesus gives to His followers, reminding them that fear is dispelled in the presence of divine love and authority. This tactile reassurance evokes a deep sense of intimacy and care.

Albert Barnes illustrates that in times of distress, the touch of Jesus becomes a powerful metaphor for His grace, bringing peace to troubled hearts. In many biblical instances, touch signifies healing and restoration. Thus, this moment underscores both physical and spiritual renewal for the disciples.

"Arise, and be not afraid"

The command "Arise, and be not afraid" encapsulates the transformative power of faith. Adam Clarke explains that the directive to "arise" signifies a call to stand up and move beyond fear. In biblical tradition, rising often indicates receiving strength from God to face future challenges. The juxtaposition of rising and fear highlights that while fear is a natural human response, faith equips believers to overcome it.

Matthew Henry elaborates on the necessity of overcoming fear through faith. He posits that faith is the antidote to fear, urging that believers must respond to God's call with trust in His promises. This statement is not merely a comforting suggestion; it is a mandate indicating that fear cannot be allowed to paralyze the soul.

Theological Implications

The theological implications of this verse resonate deeply with the nature of God as a source of comfort and peace. Albert Barnes notes that God's presence is a recurring theme throughout scripture, echoing the reassurance offered to the Israelites in times of distress. This interaction illustrates Christ’s role as the manifestation of God’s comfort, affirming His divinity and authority over fear.

Additionally, Matthew Henry reminds readers that this event foreshadows the resurrection. Just as Jesus offers comfort to the disciples amidst their fear, He promises ultimate victory over death, providing the believer with hope. This moment provides a glimpse into the nature of the Resurrection, reinforcing the expectation of joy and triumph following trials and fear.

Application for Today

For today’s readers, Matthew 17:7 serves as a profound reminder of God’s consistent presence in times of trouble. Pastors can draw from this verse to teach congregants about the importance of turning to Christ in both mundane and extraordinary moments of fear.

• Encouragement in Fear: Just as Jesus touched and reassured His disciples, believers can find confidence in God’s nearness during difficulty.
• Faith Over Fear: The command to “arise” challenges Christians to confront fear through faith, reflecting on personal and communal struggles while relying on God's promises.
• The Call to Action: This moment underscores the necessity for believers to actively engage with their faith, rising up in confidence rather than succumbing to despair.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Matthew 17:7 encapsulates a moment of deep reassurance that speaks to the heart of the Christian experience. Through the touch of Jesus and His command to be unafraid, believers are invited to embrace the comforting presence of God amid life’s myriad fears. The insights from commentaries upon this verse serve not only as a historical analysis but also as a practical guide, enriching the understanding of God’s character and our response to Him.