Matthew 24:23
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 24:23
23 Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there; believe it not.
Chapter Context
Matthew 24 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of worship, love, 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 21-51: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. 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 24:23
23 Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there; believe it not.
Analysis
Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there; believe it not (τότε ἐάν τις ὑμῖν εἴπῃ, Ἰδοὺ ὧδε ὁ Χριστός, ἤ, Ὧδε, μὴ πιστεύσητε)—The adverb τότε ("then") connects to the tribulation period. The interjection ἰδού (idou, "behold, lo") suggests urgency and attention-getting. False messiahs will claim location: "here" (ὧδε). The imperative μὴ πιστεύσητε ("believe not") commands skeptical resistance.
When suffering intensifies, desperate people grasp for deliverance—making them vulnerable to deception. During Jerusalem's siege, multiple zealot leaders promised divine intervention and military victory, leading thousands to stay in the city and perish. Jesus's warning anticipated this psychological vulnerability. The command "believe it not" doesn't mean general skepticism but specific discernment: the true Christ's return will be unmistakable (v. 27, "as lightning"), not localized rumors requiring investigation.
Historical Context
Between Jesus's prophecy and AD 70, Josephus catalogs numerous messianic pretenders who attracted followers with promises of deliverance: an Egyptian false prophet (mentioned in Acts 21:38), Theudas, and various zealot leaders during the revolt (AD 66-70). After AD 70, the pattern continued: Bar Kokhba (AD 132-135), acclaimed messiah by Rabbi Akiva. Throughout church history—Sabbatai Zevi, David Koresh, Sun Myung Moon—the pattern Jesus warned against has repeated.
Reflection
- Why are people especially vulnerable to false messiahs during times of crisis and suffering?
- How can believers maintain discernment when longing for Christ's return without falling into cynicism or date-setting?
- What specific characteristics should make any "messiah" claim immediately suspicious?
Word Studies
- Believe: πιστεύω (Pisteuo) G4100 - To believe, trust, have faith
Cross-References
- References Christ: Luke 21:8
- Faith: Mark 13:21