Matthew 16:20

Authorized King James Version

Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the Christ.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
τότε
Then
the when, i.e., at the time that (of the past or future, also in consecution)
#2
διεστείλατο
charged he
to set (oneself) apart (figuratively, distinguish), i.e., (by implication) to enjoin
#3
τοῖς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
μαθηταῖς
disciples
a learner, i.e., pupil
#5
αὐτός
he
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
#6
ἵνα
that
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
#7
μηδενὶ
no man
not even one (man, woman, thing)
#8
εἴπωσιν
they should tell
to speak or say (by word or writing)
#9
ὅτι
that
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#10
αὐτός
he
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
#11
ἐστιν
was
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are
#12
Ἰησοῦς
Jesus
jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites
#13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#14
Χριστός
the Christ
anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus

Analysis

Within the broader context of Matthew, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Matthew.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The first-century Palestinian Jewish culture under Roman occupation would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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