Matthew 10:20
For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you.
Original Language Analysis
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 16
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
τὸ
which
G3588
τὸ
which
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 16
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἀλλὰ
but
G235
ἀλλὰ
but
Strong's:
G235
Word #:
7 of 16
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
τὸ
which
G3588
τὸ
which
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
8 of 16
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
πνεῦμα
the Spirit
G4151
πνεῦμα
the Spirit
Strong's:
G4151
Word #:
9 of 16
a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin
τὸ
which
G3588
τὸ
which
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
10 of 16
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
πατρὸς
Father
G3962
πατρὸς
Father
Strong's:
G3962
Word #:
11 of 16
a "father" (literally or figuratively, near or more remote)
Cross References
Acts 6:10And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the spirit by which he spake.Luke 21:15For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist.2 Samuel 23:2The Spirit of the LORD spake by me, and his word was in my tongue.Luke 12:12For the Holy Ghost shall teach you in the same hour what ye ought to say.2 Peter 1:21For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.Acts 2:4And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.Acts 4:8Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel,2 Corinthians 13:3Since ye seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, which to you-ward is not weak, but is mighty in you.Acts 28:25And when they agreed not among themselves, they departed, after that Paul had spoken one word, Well spake the Holy Ghost by Esaias the prophet unto our fathers,Acts 13:9Then Saul, (who also is called Paul,) filled with the Holy Ghost, set his eyes on him,
Historical Context
Old Testament prophets experienced God's Spirit enabling speech (Ezekiel 3:24-27, Micah 3:8). Jesus promises this same prophetic enablement to all disciples. Pentecost fulfilled this: Spirit-filled believers spoke boldly (Acts 2:4, 4:31). Early church understood witness as Spirit's work through believers, not human achievement. This democratized prophecy: not just special leaders but all believers receive Spirit's enabling for witness. Church history shows ordinary believers empowered to extraordinary testimony under persecution.
Questions for Reflection
- How does knowing the Spirit speaks through us transform our confidence in witnessing?
- What is the relationship between the Spirit's empowerment and our human responsibility to witness?
- How can we remain open to the Spirit's leading rather than relying solely on prepared speeches?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Jesus explains the source: 'For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you' (ου γαρ υμεις εστε οι λαλουντες αλλα το πνευμα του πατρος υμων το λαλουν εν υμιν). The Holy Spirit empowers witness, not human eloquence or preparation. 'Spirit of your Father' emphasizes intimate relationship—the Spirit belongs to the Father who is your Father. This familial language comforts: you're not alone facing hostile courts; your Father's Spirit speaks through you. 'In you' (εν υμιν) indicates indwelling presence. This anticipates Pentecost (Acts 2) when the Spirit would permanently indwell believers. The promise combines divine sovereignty (Spirit speaks) with human instrumentality (speaks 'in you'). Believers become vessels for divine speech.