Matthew 23:39
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 23:39
39 For I say unto you, Ye shall not see me henceforth, till ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.
Chapter Context
Matthew 23 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of prayer, love, faith. 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 21-39: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. 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 23:39
39 For I say unto you, Ye shall not see me henceforth, till ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.
Analysis
For I say unto you, Ye shall not see me henceforth, till ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord (λέγω γὰρ ὑμῖν, οὐ μή με ἴδητε ἀπ' ἄρτι ἕως ἂν εἴπητε, Εὐλογημένος ὁ ἐρχόμενος ἐν ὀνόματι κυρίου)—The double negative οὐ μή ('never, by no means') with aorist subjunctive gives strongest denial: they will absolutely not see Him ἀπ' ἄρτι ('from now') until (ἕως ἄν) they say the messianic acclamation from Psalm 118:26. Jesus declares judicial abandonment of unbelieving Israel—divine presence withdraws. The Shekinah glory once filled the temple (1 Kings 8:10-11); now Christ's glory departs (Ezekiel 10:18-19).
The citation of Psalm 118:26 looks to Christ's second coming when 'all Israel will be saved' (Romans 11:26). The remnant will recognize Jesus as Messiah, crying 'Blessed is He who comes in the Lord's name!' The crowds spoke these words at Triumphal Entry (21:9), but the nation must corporately confess Christ before seeing Him again. This promise guarantees Israel's future salvation (Zechariah 12:10; 13:1), showing God's covenant faithfulness despite present rejection. Judgment isn't final; mercy triumphs.
Historical Context
Jesus spoke this in the temple courts (23:1), His final public discourse before the Olivet Discourse (24:1-25:46). Chapter 23's seven woes condemned scribes and Pharisees' hypocrisy. This climactic verse pronounces judgment: Christ's glory departs from Israel until repentance. In AD 70, Rome destroyed temple and city—visible judgment. But verse 39 promises restoration when Israel recognizes her Messiah. Paul develops this in Romans 9-11: Israel's hardening is partial and temporary until 'the fullness of the Gentiles' comes (Romans 11:25).
Reflection
- How does Jesus's withdrawal from those who persistently reject Him warn against presuming on God's patience?
- What does God's promise of Israel's future restoration teach about His faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master
Cross-References
- Blessing: Matthew 21:9, Psalms 118:26
- Parallel theme: Romans 11:25