Matthew 4:17

Authorized King James Version

From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

Word-by-Word Analysis

Ἀπὸ

G575

From

"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)

τότε

G5119

that time

the when, i.e., at the time that (of the past or future, also in consecution)

ἤρξατο

G756

began

to commence (in order of time)

ὁ

G3588

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

Ἰησοῦς

G2424

Jesus

jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites

κηρύσσειν

G2784

to preach

to herald (as a public crier), especially divine truth (the gospel)

καὶ

G2532

and

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

λέγειν

G3004

to say

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·

G3340

Repent

to think differently or afterwards, i.e., reconsider (morally, feel compunction)

#10

ἤγγικεν

G1448

is at hand

to make near, i.e., (reflexively) approach

#11

γὰρ

G1063

for

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

#12

ἡ

G3588

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

#13

βασιλεία

G932

the kingdom

properly, royalty, i.e., (abstractly) rule, or (concretely) a realm (literally or figuratively)

#14

τῶν

G3588

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

#15

οὐρανῶν

G3772

of heaven

the sky; by extension, heaven (as the abode of god); by implication, happiness, power, eternity; specially, the gospel (christianity)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Matthew, this passage highlights kingdom of God through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of kingdom connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about kingdom, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Matthew.

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 kingdom of God within the theological tradition of Matthew Understanding a worldview expecting divine intervention through a promised Messiah helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes kingdom in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of kingdom of God, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of eschatology and the doctrine of last things?
In what ways does understanding kingdom in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about kingdom of God?
What practical applications emerge from understanding kingdom of God as presented in this verse, particularly in light of providing hope in times of political and social upheaval?

Related Resources

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Matthew 4:17

Analysis

Historical Context

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Topics

People

Study Resources