Matthew 8:17
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 8:17
17 That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses.
Chapter Context
Matthew 8 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of worship, truth, 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 foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 8:17
17 That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses.
Analysis
Matthew quotes Isaiah 53:4 to explain Jesus' healing ministry as fulfillment of messianic prophecy. The phrase 'Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses' connects Christ's healing miracles to His substitutionary atonement. While the ultimate fulfillment is the cross bearing our sins, the healings demonstrated His identification with human suffering and power to deliver from all effects of the fall. This shows the incarnate Son entering fully into human misery to redeem it.
Historical Context
Isaiah 53:4's context is the Suffering Servant's substitutionary atonement. Matthew shows Jesus' healing ministry was not merely humanitarian but redemptive—demonstrating His power over sin's consequences and His role as the sin-bearer who would ultimately die for transgressions.
Reflection
- How do Christ's physical healings demonstrate His power over all consequences of the fall, both physical and spiritual?
- What does Jesus 'bearing our sicknesses' teach about His complete identification with human suffering?
Word Studies
- Prophet: προφήτης (Prophētēs) G4396 - Prophet
Cross-References
- Prophecy: Matthew 1:22
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 53:4, 1 Peter 2:24