Commentary on Matthew 22:42

Verse: "What think ye of Christ? whose son is he?"

Introduction

This profound question posed by Jesus in Matthew 22:42 serves as a crucial inquiry into the identity and nature of Christ. The Pharisees, who had been trying to trap Him with questions, are instead confronted with a question that demands deep reflection and reveals their lack of understanding about the Messiah. This commentary seeks to explore the implications of this verse, drawing insights from various public domain commentaries to provide a comprehensive understanding suitable for pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars.

The Context of the Question

In the context of Matthew 22, Jesus had just silenced the Sadducees, and now He turns to the Pharisees with a question that is both provocative and revealing. As noted by Matthew Henry, this question is not merely about intellectual assent but probes the very heart of faith—what one believes about Christ's identity and authority.

• Intellectual Engagement: The verse invites the reader to consider their understanding of Christ, challenging superficial beliefs and requiring a deeper theological engagement.
• Moral and Spiritual Implications: As Albert Barnes points out, the question is laden with moral and spiritual implications. The answer to "Whose son is he?" reflects one’s understanding of Jesus' divinity and humanity.

The Response of the Pharisees

When asked, the Pharisees answer correctly, stating that Christ is the Son of David. However, as noted by Adam Clarke, their answer demonstrates a limited comprehension of who Jesus truly is. They recognized His lineage but failed to grasp His divine nature, a reflection of the broader spiritual blindness that can afflict even those with extensive theological knowledge.

Theological Implications

The question asked by Jesus carries significant theological weight, touching on Christology and the understanding of Jesus’ mission:

• The Dual Nature of Christ: This passage emphasizes the dual nature of Christ as both divine and human. The acknowledgment that He is the Son of David aligns Him with prophetic fulfillment, while His questioning reveals a greater truth about His divinity, as highlighted by Matthew Henry.
• Messianic Expectations: The Pharisees’ answer reflects common Jewish expectations of the Messiah. However, Jesus’ subsequent teachings aim to reshape these expectations, calling to attention that His kingdom is not of this world. Albert Barnes elaborates that understanding the true nature of the Messiah requires recognizing Jesus as more than a political leader.

Application for Believers

This inquiry serves not only as a challenge but also as a call to all believers to reassess their understanding of Christ:

• Personal Reflection: Each individual must confront the question, "What think ye of Christ?" It is an invitation to reflect on one's personal faith and understanding of Jesus’ role in salvation.
• Spiritual Growth: Engaging with this question encourages spiritual growth, as seen in the teachings of Adam Clarke. A deeper comprehension of Christ's identity leads to a more robust faith and witness to others.

Conclusion

Matthew 22:42 encapsulates a pivotal moment in Jesus' ministry and invites profound reflection on His identity. The gospels are replete with questions that lead to significant revelations. As the inquiry of Christ leads us to consider His nature as both the Son of David and the divine Son of God, it becomes a foundational premise for understanding the entire New Testament narrative. In sum, "What think ye of Christ?" is not only a theological question but a personal challenge that calls each of us to recognize and affirm our belief in Him, as captured in the insights of historic commentaries.

Let us then, through this inquiry, move towards a fuller understanding of the majesty and mystery of Christ, leading to a deeper worship and service in His name.