Matthew 17:6

Authorized King James Version

And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their face, and were sore afraid.

Word-by-Word Analysis

καὶ

G2532

And

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ἀκούσαντες

G191

heard

to hear (in various senses)

οἱ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

μαθηταὶ

G3101

when the disciples

a learner, i.e., pupil

ἔπεσον

G4098

it they fell

to fall (literally or figuratively)

ἐπὶ

G1909

properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re

πρόσωπον

G4383

face

the front (as being towards view), i.e., the countenance, aspect, appearance, surface; by implication, presence, person

αὐτῶν

G846

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

καὶ

G2532

And

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#10

ἐφοβήθησαν

G5399

afraid

to frighten, i.e., (passively) to be alarmed; by analogy, to be in awe of, i.e., revere

#11

σφόδρα

G4970

were sore

of uncertain derivation) as adverb; vehemently, i.e., in a high degree, much

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Matthew. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to gospel presenting Jesus as the fulfillment of Jewish Messianic hope, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of Jewish biographical literature presenting Jesus as the fulfillment of Scripture shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Matthew Understanding a worldview expecting divine intervention through a promised Messiah helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
How does this verse's literary context within Matthew chapter 17 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?

Related Resources

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Matthew 17:6

Analysis

Historical Context

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Topics

People

Study Resources