Matthew 16:3
And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowring. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times?
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 24
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Σήμερον
to day
G4594
Σήμερον
to day
Strong's:
G4594
Word #:
3 of 24
on the (i.e., this) day (or night current or just passed); generally, now (i.e., at present, hitherto)
χειμών,
It will be foul weather
G5494
χειμών,
It will be foul weather
Strong's:
G5494
Word #:
4 of 24
akin to the base of 5490 through the idea of a channel), meaning a storm (as pouring rain); by implication, the rainy season, i.e., winter
γὰρ
for
G1063
γὰρ
for
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
6 of 24
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
στυγνάζων
and lowring
G4768
στυγνάζων
and lowring
Strong's:
G4768
Word #:
7 of 24
to render gloomy, i.e., (by implication) glower (be overcast with clouds, or sombreness of speech)
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
8 of 24
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
οὐρανοῦ
of the sky
G3772
οὐρανοῦ
of the sky
Strong's:
G3772
Word #:
9 of 24
the sky; by extension, heaven (as the abode of god); by implication, happiness, power, eternity; specially, the gospel (christianity)
ὑποκριταί,
O ye hypocrites
G5273
ὑποκριταί,
O ye hypocrites
Strong's:
G5273
Word #:
10 of 24
an actor under an assumed character (stage-player), i.e., (figuratively) a dissembler ("hypocrite"
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
11 of 24
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
μὲν
G3303
μὲν
Strong's:
G3303
Word #:
12 of 24
properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)
πρόσωπον
the face
G4383
πρόσωπον
the face
Strong's:
G4383
Word #:
13 of 24
the front (as being towards view), i.e., the countenance, aspect, appearance, surface; by implication, presence, person
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
14 of 24
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
οὐρανοῦ
of the sky
G3772
οὐρανοῦ
of the sky
Strong's:
G3772
Word #:
15 of 24
the sky; by extension, heaven (as the abode of god); by implication, happiness, power, eternity; specially, the gospel (christianity)
γινώσκετε
ye can
G1097
γινώσκετε
ye can
Strong's:
G1097
Word #:
16 of 24
to "know" (absolutely) in a great variety of applications and with many implications (as follow, with others not thus clearly expressed)
διακρίνειν,
discern
G1252
διακρίνειν,
discern
Strong's:
G1252
Word #:
17 of 24
to separate thoroughly, i.e., (literally and reflexively) to withdraw from, or (by implication) oppose; figuratively, to discriminate (by implication,
τὰ
G3588
τὰ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
18 of 24
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
σημεῖα
discern the signs
G4592
σημεῖα
discern the signs
Strong's:
G4592
Word #:
20 of 24
an indication, especially ceremonially or supernaturally
τῶν
G3588
τῶν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
21 of 24
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Luke 12:56Ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky and of the earth; but how is it that ye do not discern this time?1 Chronicles 12:32And of the children of Issachar, which were men that had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do; the heads of them were two hundred; and all their brethren were at their commandment.Luke 13:15The Lord then answered him, and said, Thou hypocrite, doth not each one of you on the sabbath loose his ox or his ass from the stall, and lead him away to watering?
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 verse deepen your appreciation for Christ?
- What false beliefs or practices does this text correct?
- How should you share this truth with others?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
This text illustrates key Reformed principles: sola Scriptura, sola gratia, and sola fide. The passage demonstrates how God's Word speaks authoritatively to human need, revealing both our depravity and God's merciful provision through Christ.