Matthew 16:23 (KJV)

What does Matthew 16:23 mean?

Matthew 16:23 describes Jesus sharply rebuking Peter, calling him "Satan" and telling him to get behind Him because Peter is thinking in a human way, not according to God's purposes. Jesus says Peter is an "offence" to Him, meaning Peter is acting as a stumbling block by opposing God's plan.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking directly to Peter after Peter tried to stop Him from talking about His coming suffering and death. Jesus uses strong language to show that Peter's well-meaning but misguided words are actually working against God's will. The verse highlights the difference between human thinking, which often avoids suffering, and God's greater plan, which sometimes requires it.

The Greek behind Matthew 16:23

• "Σατανᾶ" (Satanas, "Satan"): Here, Jesus is not saying Peter is literally Satan, but is identifying Peter's words as opposing God's plan, much like the adversary (Satan) would.
• "σκάνδαλον" (skandalon, "offence"): This word means a stumbling block or something that causes someone to trip. Jesus is saying Peter's attitude could cause Him or others to stumble from God's path.
• "φρονεῖς" (phroneis, "savourest"): This Greek verb means to set one's mind on or to think about. Jesus is pointing out that Peter's mindset is focused on human concerns, not on what God wants.

Why Matthew 16:23 matters

• Matthew 16:23 clears up that even well-intentioned advice can be spiritually harmful if it goes against God's purposes, as seen in Peter's attempt to protect Jesus.
• The verse emphasizes the sharp difference between human priorities (comfort, safety) and God's priorities (fulfilling His plan, even through suffering).
• This moment connects to the wider passage where Jesus begins to explain His mission and the cost of discipleship, showing that following Him means aligning with God's will, not just human expectations.