Matthew 21:27
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 21:27
27 And they answered Jesus, and said, We cannot tell. And he said unto them, Neither tell I you by what authority I do these things.
Chapter Context
Matthew 21 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of prayer, fellowship, covenant. 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 21-46: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 21:27
27 And they answered Jesus, and said, We cannot tell. And he said unto them, Neither tell I you by what authority I do these things.
Analysis
We cannot tell—The Greek οὐκ οἴδαμεν (ouk oidamen) means 'we don't know'—a lie. They knew but wouldn't admit it. Neither tell I you by what authority I do these things—Jesus honors their choice. Since they refused to acknowledge God's authentication through John, they'd proven themselves incapable of recognizing divine authority in Jesus.
Jesus's refusal wasn't evasion but righteous judgment. He wouldn't cast pearls before swine (Matt 7:6). Those who willfully suppress truth forfeit further revelation. God's authority authenticates itself to honest seekers; it's hidden from those who've hardened their hearts (Matt 13:11-15).
Historical Context
In Jewish legal tradition, witnesses who refused to testify forfeited their right to bring charges. The leaders' claimed ignorance disqualified them as judges of Jesus's authority. Their intellectual dishonesty—obvious to all observers—undermined their credibility while preserving Jesus's teaching authority.
Reflection
- When have you claimed 'I don't know' to avoid uncomfortable truth you actually recognized?
- How does persistent rejection of clear truth eventually lead to judicial hardening where God withholds further light?