Commentary on Matthew 23:34

Matthew 23:34 states:

"Wherefore, behold, I send unto you prophets, and wise men, and scribes: and some of them ye shall kill and crucify; and some of them shall ye scourge in your synagogues, and persecute them from city to city."

Contextual Overview

The Gospel of Matthew is characterized by its emphasis on the conflict between Jesus and the Jewish religious leaders. In chapter 23, Jesus addresses the Pharisees and scribes, denouncing their hypocrisy and the burdens they place upon the people. In this verse, He issues a prophetic warning about the consequences of their actions against the true messengers of God.

Exposition of the Verse

Matthew Henry writes extensively on this passage, noting that the reference to God's messengers reflects His ongoing commitment to communicate with His people, even in the face of rejection. Henry emphasizes:

• Divine Initiative: God's initiative in sending prophets shows His grace and mercy despite the people's unfaithfulness.
• Rejection of Authorities: The consistent rejection of prophets and wise men by the people signifies a tragic pattern throughout Israel's history.
• Persecution as a Consequence: The persecution that the prophets face underscores the seriousness of rejecting God's word.

Historical Context

Albert Barnes expands on the historical backdrop, highlighting that throughout Israel's history, prophets were often treated with hostility. He notes:

• Historical Precedents: Throughout the history detailed in the Old Testament, prophets faced severe opposition, reflecting the deep-seated issues within the leadership of Israel.
• Impact on the Early Church: This reality also foreshadows the experiences of the early Church, as many would suffer persecution similarly.

Theological Implications

Adam Clarke's insights bring forth theological dimensions to the understanding of this verse. His commentary discusses:

• Understanding Prophecy: Clarke highlights the distinction between the roles of prophets, wise men, and scribes, reminding readers that each has a specific function within God's redemptive story.
• Christ's Messiahship: This verse contributes to the larger revelation of Jesus as the Messiah who is actively confronting spiritual oppression.
• Royal Priesthood: The suffering endured by the messengers signifies their identity with Christ, who Himself faced rejection.

Practical Applications

This verse serves as a profound reminder for contemporary followers of Christ. The insights from the commentaries guide us toward practical applications:

• Courage in Witness: Like the prophets of old, believers are called to courageously witness for Christ, regardless of opposition.
• The Importance of Sound Doctrine: The call to follow wise men and sound teaching underscores the importance of robust theological education.
• Understanding Persecution: Recognizing that persecution may be part of the Christian experience encourages believers to remain steadfast in faith.

Conclusion

Matthew 23:34 stands as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by those who proclaim God's message. Drawing insights from historical, theological, and practical perspectives, this verse calls upon modern Christians to embrace their prophetic role with boldness, aware of the legacy of those who have gone before them. Ultimately, it is a call to fidelity in the face of opposition, trusting in God's preservation of His message and messengers through the ages.