Matthew 24:10
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 24:10
10 And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another.
Chapter Context
Matthew 24 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of holiness, hope, discipleship. 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 21-51: 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 24:10
10 And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another.
Analysis
And then shall many be offended (καὶ τότε σκανδαλισθήσονται πολλοί)—The verb σκανδαλίζω (skandalizō) means to cause to stumble or fall away—the source of our word "scandal." In persecution's crucible, many (πολλοί) will apostatize, proving their faith was superficial (see the Parable of the Sower: seed among thorns, Matthew 13:20-21). This isn't backsliding but wholesale abandonment.
And shall betray one another, and shall hate one another (καὶ ἀλλήλους παραδώσουσιν καὶ μισήσουσιν ἀλλήλους)—The reciprocal pronoun allēlous ("one another") appears twice, intensifying the horror: not outsiders betraying believers, but believers betraying each other. Families will fracture (Matthew 10:21), communities implode. This describes not persecution from without but disintegration from within—the church cannibalizing itself under pressure.
Historical Context
During Roman persecutions, some Christians became traditores ("handers-over"), betraying fellow believers to save themselves—the origin of our word "traitor." The Donatist controversy arose over whether to readmit these apostates. In AD 70, historian Josephus records Jews betraying each other during Jerusalem's siege. Modern parallels include believers in China, North Korea, and Iran facing family betrayal when converting to Christ.
Reflection
- What pressures in contemporary culture tempt believers toward compromise or apostasy?
- How can churches build resilience and authentic community that withstands persecution rather than fracturing?
- What distinguishes temporary stumbling (which happens to genuine believers) from the permanent apostasy Jesus describes here?