Matthew 3:17
And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 17
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
φωνὴ
a voice
G5456
φωνὴ
a voice
Strong's:
G5456
Word #:
3 of 17
a tone (articulate, bestial or artificial); by implication, an address (for any purpose), saying or language
ἐκ
from
G1537
ἐκ
from
Strong's:
G1537
Word #:
4 of 17
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
τῶν
G3588
τῶν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
οὐρανῶν
heaven
G3772
οὐρανῶν
heaven
Strong's:
G3772
Word #:
6 of 17
the sky; by extension, heaven (as the abode of god); by implication, happiness, power, eternity; specially, the gospel (christianity)
λέγουσα
saying
G3004
λέγουσα
saying
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
7 of 17
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
Οὗτός
This
G3778
Οὗτός
This
Strong's:
G3778
Word #:
8 of 17
the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
10 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
υἱός
Son
G5207
υἱός
Son
Strong's:
G5207
Word #:
11 of 17
a "son" (sometimes of animals), used very widely of immediate, remote or figuratively, kinship
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
13 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Isaiah 42:1Behold my servant, whom I uphold; mine elect, in whom my soul delighteth; I have put my spirit upon him: he shall bring forth judgment to the Gentiles.Matthew 17:5While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.Psalms 2:7I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee.2 Peter 1:17For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.Mark 9:7And there was a cloud that overshadowed them: and a voice came out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son: hear him.Luke 9:35And there came a voice out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son: hear him.Matthew 12:18Behold my servant, whom I have chosen; my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased: I will put my spirit upon him, and he shall shew judgment to the Gentiles.Luke 3:22And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased.Mark 1:11And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.Colossians 1:13Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:
Historical Context
This is one of three recorded instances of the Father's audible voice in the Gospels (also at Transfiguration and John 12). The public declaration authenticated Jesus before witnesses, confirming His identity as the Messiah. The wording echoes coronation language.
Questions for Reflection
- How does knowing God's pleasure rests on Christ (not your performance) give you security?
- What does the Father's affirmation teach about Jesus' identity?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The Father's voice declares: 'This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.' This combines Psalm 2:7 (messianic king) and Isaiah 42:1 (suffering servant), defining Jesus' mission as both royal and redemptive. The present tense 'am well pleased' shows eternal satisfaction, not conditional approval based on baptism. This divine affirmation before ministry begins demonstrates grace preceding works.