Matthew 20:33
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 20:33
33 They say unto him, Lord, that our eyes may be opened.
Chapter Context
Matthew 20 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of wisdom, judgment, mercy. 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 addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. 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 20:33
33 They say unto him, Lord, that our eyes may be opened.
Analysis
They say unto him, Lord, that our eyes may be opened (Κύριε, ἵνα ἀνοιχθῶσιν οἱ ὀφθαλμοὶ ἡμῶν)—The blind men's request is specific, humble, and acknowledges dependence. That our eyes may be opened (ἵνα ἀνοιχθῶσιν)—The subjunctive aorist passive anoichthōsin recognizes that only Jesus can open their eyes; they cannot do this themselves. The passive voice implies divine action—only God can give sight, physically and spiritually.
Verse 34 records Jesus's immediate healing: 'Jesus had compassion on them, and touched their eyes: and immediately their eyes received sight, and they followed him.' Their healing contrasts with the disciples' persistent blindness (v. 24). Physical sight leads to discipleship—'they followed him.' The blind men's progression models salvation: hearing about Jesus (v. 30), crying out for mercy (v. 30), persisting despite opposition (v. 31), receiving His call (v. 32), confessing need (v. 33), experiencing His compassion (v. 34), and following Him (v. 34).
Historical Context
Blindness in Scripture often symbolizes spiritual inability to perceive God's truth (Isaiah 6:10, 42:7; John 9:39-41). Jesus frequently healed the blind as a Messianic sign fulfilling Isaiah 35:5 ('Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened'). This healing, strategically placed before Jesus's triumphal entry (21:1-11), demonstrates that true disciples see Jesus's identity while crowds remain blind to His mission. The blind men's subsequent 'following' suggests they joined the pilgrim procession into Jerusalem.
Reflection
- How does the simplicity of 'that our eyes may be opened' contrast with the complexity of worldly ambition seen in verses 20-24?
- What does the passive voice ('may be opened') teach about human inability and divine grace in salvation?
- How does the blind men's immediate following of Jesus after healing (v. 34) challenge superficial Christianity?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Psalms 119:18