Matthew 20:30
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 20:30
30 And, behold, two blind men sitting by the way side, when they heard that Jesus passed by, cried out, saying, Have mercy on us, O Lord, thou Son of David.
Chapter Context
Matthew 20 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of obedience, holiness, wisdom. 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 21-34: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 20:30
30 And, behold, two blind men sitting by the way side, when they heard that Jesus passed by, cried out, saying, Have mercy on us, O Lord, thou Son of David.
Analysis
Two blind men sitting by the way side (δύο τυφλοὶ καθήμενοι παρὰ τὴν ὁδόν)—The typhloì (blind men) represent humanity's spiritual condition; kathēmenoi (sitting) suggests helpless resignation to their state. Their roadside position was strategic for begging from pilgrims. When they heard that Jesus passed by (ἀκούσαντες ὅτι Ἰησοῦς παράγει)—Hearing, akousantes, precedes seeing; faith comes by hearing (Romans 10:17).
Have mercy on us, O Lord, thou Son of David (Ἐλέησον ἡμᾶς, κύριε υἱὸς Δαυίδ)—Their cry employs the Messianic title huios Dauid (Son of David), acknowledging Jesus as the promised heir to David's throne. 'Lord' (kyrie) can mean 'sir' or 'master,' but combined with 'Son of David' indicates Messianic recognition. Ironically, blind men see what sighted disciples miss: Jesus's true identity. Their persistent faith contrasts sharply with the disciples' ambitious blindness in verses 20-24.
Historical Context
Blindness was common in the ancient Near East due to untreated infections, trachoma, and glaucoma. Blind beggars positioned themselves at city gates and along pilgrimage routes for maximum alms. The Messianic title 'Son of David' reflected Jewish expectation based on 2 Samuel 7:12-16, Isaiah 9:6-7, and Jeremiah 23:5-6. Blind Bartimaeus (Mark 10:46) was one of these two men, suggesting his later prominence in the early church.
Reflection
- Why can blind beggars see Jesus's true identity while the sighted disciples remain blind to it?
- What does their persistent crying out despite opposition teach about the nature of saving faith?
- How does the title 'Son of David' reflect both correct theology and potentially misguided political expectations?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master
Cross-References
- References Lord: Matthew 21:9
- References David: Matthew 22:42
- Parallel theme: Matthew 21:14, Mark 10:46