From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day.
MATTHEW 16:21KJVWhat does Matthew 16:21 mean?
Matthew 16:21 describes how Jesus began to openly tell his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem, where he would suffer at the hands of the religious leaders, be killed, and then rise again on the third day. This is the first time in Matthew’s Gospel that Jesus clearly explains to his followers what will soon happen to him.
In this verse, Jesus is speaking directly to his closest followers, preparing them for the difficult events ahead. The setting is just after Peter has recognized Jesus as the Messiah, and now Jesus starts to reveal that his mission includes suffering and death, not just victory. This marks a turning point in the story, as Jesus shifts from teaching and miracles to preparing his disciples for his coming sacrifice.
The Greek behind Matthew 16:21
- ἔδει (dei, “must”): This word means something is necessary or required. Here, it shows that Jesus’ suffering, death, and resurrection are not accidents but part of a necessary plan.
- παθεῖν (pathein, “suffer”): This word means to experience pain or hardship. Jesus is clear that he will face real suffering at the hands of the elders, chief priests, and scribes.
- ἀποκτανθῆναι (apoktanthēnai, “be killed”): This is a strong word for being put to death, showing that Jesus is not just talking about hardship but actual execution.
- ἐγερθῆναι (egerthēnai, “be raised”): This word means to be raised up, often used for resurrection. Jesus is telling his disciples that his death will not be the end, but that he will rise again on the third day.
Why Matthew 16:21 matters
- Matthew 16:21 clears up the idea that Jesus’ mission was only about earthly success or political power; it emphasizes that suffering and resurrection are central to his purpose.
- This verse marks a shift in Jesus’ teaching, as he begins to prepare his disciples for the reality of his coming death and resurrection, which they did not expect.
- Understanding this verse helps make sense of the disciples’ confusion and reactions in the following passages, as they struggle to accept that the Messiah would suffer and die.