Matthew 13:57
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 13:57
57 And they were offended in him. But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country, and in his own house.
Chapter Context
Matthew 13 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of grace, mercy, obedience. 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 establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. 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 13:57
57 And they were offended in him. But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country, and in his own house.
Analysis
And they were offended in him (καὶ ἐσκανδαλίζοντο ἐν αὐτῷ)—The verb σκανδαλίζω (skandalizō) means 'to cause to stumble, to take offense.' The imperfect tense indicates ongoing, repeated offense. They stumbled over the σκάνδαλον (skandalon, 'stumbling block') of the incarnation—that God would come in such humble form. This anticipates Paul's teaching that Christ crucified is 'a stumbling block to Jews' (1 Corinthians 1:23). Familiarity bred not faith but contempt.
A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country, and in his own house (οὐκ ἔστιν προφήτης ἄτιμος εἰ μὴ ἐν τῇ πατρίδι καὶ ἐν τῇ οἰκίᾳ αὐτοῦ)—This proverbial saying appears in all four Gospels (Mark 6:4; Luke 4:24; John 4:44), indicating Jesus repeated it. The double exception (πατρίς 'homeland' and οἰκία 'household') shows rejection at both community and family levels (John 7:5). The word ἄτιμος ('without honor, dishonored') is the opposite of the τιμή (honor) prophets typically received. Jesus identifies Himself as the ultimate Prophet, greater than Moses (Deuteronomy 18:15-18), yet rejected by His own.
Historical Context
Old Testament prophets frequently faced rejection (Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Amos), often most severely from their own people. Jesus's experience at Nazareth paralleled Israel's pattern of killing the prophets (Matthew 23:29-37). This proverb was apparently common in the ancient world, attested in various forms in Greek and Latin literature, but Jesus applies it to Himself as the ultimate Prophet. Luke 4:16-30 provides more detail, showing they attempted to kill Him by throwing Him off a cliff.
Reflection
- Why is it often harder to witness to family and longtime friends than to strangers?
- How does Jesus's rejection by His hometown prepare you for similar rejection when you faithfully proclaim truth?
Word Studies
- Prophet: προφήτης (Prophētēs) G4396 - Prophet
Cross-References
- Prophecy: Luke 4:24, John 4:44
- References Jesus: John 6:42, 6:61
- Parallel theme: Matthew 11:6, Isaiah 8:14, 49:7, 53:3, Luke 7:23