Matthew 16:20
Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the Christ.
Original Language Analysis
τότε
Then
G5119
τότε
Then
Strong's:
G5119
Word #:
1 of 14
the when, i.e., at the time that (of the past or future, also in consecution)
διεστείλατο
charged he
G1291
διεστείλατο
charged he
Strong's:
G1291
Word #:
2 of 14
to set (oneself) apart (figuratively, distinguish), i.e., (by implication) to enjoin
τοῖς
G3588
τοῖς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
αὐτός
he
G846
αὐτός
he
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
5 of 14
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
ὅτι
that
G3754
ὅτι
that
Strong's:
G3754
Word #:
9 of 14
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
αὐτός
he
G846
αὐτός
he
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
10 of 14
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
Ἰησοῦς
Jesus
G2424
Ἰησοῦς
Jesus
Strong's:
G2424
Word #:
12 of 14
jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites
Cross References
Mark 8:30And he charged them that they should tell no man of him.Luke 9:21And he straitly charged them, and commanded them to tell no man that thing;Matthew 17:9And as they came down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, saying, Tell the vision to no man, until the Son of man be risen again from the dead.John 1:41He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith unto him, We have found the Messias, which is, being interpreted, the Christ.Matthew 8:4And Jesus saith unto him, See thou tell no man; but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.
Historical Context
This verse originates in Jesus' ministry during a pivotal period. The first-century Jewish context included Roman occupation, Pharisaic religious authority, and messianic expectations. Understanding these factors illuminates the passage's significance.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this passage challenge your understanding of God's character?
- What practical application does this truth have in your daily walk?
- How should this verse shape your priorities and decisions?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
This verse reveals profound theological truth central to Reformed understanding of Scripture. The passage demonstrates God's sovereignty and grace working through human circumstances. Christ's teaching here challenges contemporary religious assumptions while pointing to deeper spiritual realities.