Bible Commentary on Matthew 23:39

Bible Verse: "For I say unto you, Ye shall not see me henceforth, till ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord."

Contextual Background

This verse is situated within the Gospel of Matthew, during a discourse of Jesus addressed to Jerusalem. Jesus laments over the city, expressing sorrow for its unrepentant nature and predicting its desolation. As He concludes His pronouncement, He offers a profound statement regarding His future return.

Theological Insights

• Messianic Expectations: Jesus points to the future revelation of His identity as the Messiah. The phrase "Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord" reflects a key theme of messianic expectation found in the Psalms (particularly Psalm 118:26), which is fulfilled in Christ.
• Spiritual Blindness: Matthew Henry remarks on the spiritual blindness of the Jews at this time, highlighting their failure to recognize Jesus as the promised Messiah. The verse serves as a foreshadowing of Israel's eventual recognition of Christ upon His Second Coming.

Expository Commentary

Matthew Henry's Perspective: Henry emphasizes the sorrow of Christ over Jerusalem. He notes, "The language of Christ implies a separation, indicating the transient distance that will exist between Him and His people." He articulates the idea that only through acknowledgment of Christ’s authority can the relationship between the Redeemer and Israel be restored.

Albert Barnes' Insights: Barnes points to the significance of "till you say." This phrase suggests a conditional future acknowledgment by the Jewish people, which correlates to their repentance and acceptance of Christ. He asserts that this recognition is crucial for any genuine restoration.

Adam Clarke's Observations: Clarke emphasizes the notion of paradox within this verse. He states that the Jewish leaders' rejection of Christ leads to His temporary absence, but this absence is not permanent. Clarke believes that the future recognition of Jesus' authority will be marked by a new understanding and blessing of His name.

Practical Applications for Believers

• Recognition of Christ: For modern Christians, this verse emphasizes the importance of recognizing Jesus in the fullness of His role as the Messiah. The acknowledgment of Jesus and His workings in one’s life is foundational for spiritual growth.
• Call to Evangelism: This passage serves as a reminder for believers to evangelize and share the message of salvation, as the fulfillment of Christ’s promise to return hinges on the world’s acknowledgment of Him.

Conclusion

Matthew 23:39 encapsulates a turning point that is both sobering and hopeful. It speaks to the heart of Jesus’ ministry and the longing for Israel to see Him, which reflects the larger narrative of redemption available to all who embrace His name. The insights from public domain commentaries help shed light on the depth of this verse for pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars striving for a deeper understanding of Christ's promises.