Matthew 13:35
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 13:35
35 That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying, I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter things which have been kept secret from the foundation of the world.
Chapter Context
Matthew 13 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of worship, prayer, love. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-58: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 13:35
35 That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying, I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter things which have been kept secret from the foundation of the world.
Analysis
That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet—Matthew quotes Psalm 78:2 (attributed to Asaph, called a prophet here though technically a psalmist). I will open my mouth in parables (παραβολαῖς, parabolais); I will utter things which have been kept secret (κεκρυμμένα, kekrymmena—perfect passive participle, meaning 'having been hidden') from the foundation of the world (ἀπὸ καταβολῆς κόσμου, apo katabolēs kosmou).
The kingdom mysteries were not unknowable, but unrevealed until Christ's coming. God's redemptive plan, hidden in ages past, is now disclosed through Jesus's teaching (cf. Romans 16:25-26, Ephesians 3:5-6, Colossians 1:26). The parabolic method reveals these secrets to those with ears to hear while fulfilling the prophetic pattern of concealment from the proud.
Historical Context
Psalm 78 was written by Asaph during Israel's monarchy, recounting God's acts from the Exodus through David's reign. Matthew, writing around AD 60-70 to a Jewish-Christian audience, consistently demonstrates Jesus as fulfilling Old Testament patterns—even the teaching method was prophesied.
Reflection
- What 'hidden things' about God's kingdom surprised you when first revealed through Scripture?
- How does recognizing that parables both reveal and conceal affect your approach to teaching Scripture?
- Why would God hide mysteries 'from the foundation of the world' only to reveal them in Christ's earthly ministry?
Word Studies
- Prophet: προφήτης (Prophētēs) G4396 - Prophet
Cross-References
- Prophecy: Matthew 13:14, Amos 3:7, Ephesians 3:5
- Parallel theme: Matthew 25:34, Psalms 78:2, Isaiah 42:9, John 17:24, 1 Corinthians 2:7, Ephesians 3:9