Matthew Chapter 3 · Verse 2
And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 9
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
λέγων,
saying
G3004
λέγων,
saying
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
2 of 9
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
Μετανοεῖτε·
Repent ye
G3340
Μετανοεῖτε·
Repent ye
Strong's:
G3340
Word #:
3 of 9
to think differently or afterwards, i.e., reconsider (morally, feel compunction)
γὰρ
for
G1063
γὰρ
for
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
5 of 9
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
ἡ
G3588
ἡ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 9
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
βασιλεία
the kingdom
G932
βασιλεία
the kingdom
Strong's:
G932
Word #:
7 of 9
properly, royalty, i.e., (abstractly) rule, or (concretely) a realm (literally or figuratively)
Cross References
Matthew 4:17From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.Mark 1:15And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.Daniel 2:44And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, but it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever.Matthew 6:10Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.Matthew 10:7And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand.2 Corinthians 7:10For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.Luke 24:47And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.Luke 15:10Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.Acts 3:19Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;Luke 13:3I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.
Historical Context
This was revolutionary preaching—the kingdom promised in Daniel 2 and 7 was now arriving. John called for moral and spiritual preparation before the King's appearance. His message paralleled Old Testament prophets calling Israel to covenant faithfulness.
Questions for Reflection
- What specific areas of your life need repentance in light of God's kingdom?
- How does the nearness of God's kingdom affect your priorities?
Analysis & Commentary
The message 'Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand' introduces the Gospel's central demand and promise. 'Repent' (Greek: metanoeō) means to change one's mind/direction, not mere regret. 'Kingdom of heaven' (Matthew's Jewish-sensitive substitute for 'kingdom of God') represents God's sovereign rule breaking into history. 'At hand' means imminent arrival, creating urgency.