And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

MATTHEW 3:17KJV
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Matthew 3:17 (KJV)

What does Matthew 3:17 mean?

Matthew 3:17 describes a voice from heaven declaring Jesus to be God’s beloved Son, expressing deep approval and pleasure in Him. This moment marks a public affirmation of Jesus’ unique relationship with God at the beginning of His ministry.

The scene takes place just after Jesus is baptized by John the Baptist. The voice is understood to be God the Father speaking directly about Jesus, making it clear to those present that Jesus holds a special, honored status. This declaration sets Jesus apart and introduces Him as someone in whom God finds complete delight and satisfaction.

The Greek behind Matthew 3:17

  • "voice" (φωνή, phōnē): This word means a sound or voice, and here it refers to an audible message from heaven, not just an inner impression. The use of "voice" emphasizes the public and unmistakable nature of the announcement.
  • "beloved" (ἀγαπητός, agapētos): This word means dearly loved or cherished. Calling Jesus "beloved" highlights a deep, personal affection, not just a formal relationship.
  • "pleased" (εὐδοκέω, eudokeō): This Greek term means to take delight in or to approve fully. The phrase shows that God is not only identifying Jesus as His Son but also expressing complete satisfaction and joy in Him.

Why Matthew 3:17 matters

  • Matthew 3:17 clears up any doubt about Jesus’ identity by showing that God Himself publicly affirms Jesus as His Son, not just a prophet or teacher.
  • The verse connects Jesus’ baptism to His mission, showing that He begins His work with God’s full approval and blessing.
  • This declaration sets the tone for the rest of Matthew’s Gospel, where Jesus’ unique relationship with God and His authority will be central themes.

Where else these words appear

“pleased” Greek G2106 · used in 21 verses

  • Matthew 12:18 Behold my servant, whom I have chosen; my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased: I will put my spirit upon him, and he shall shew judgment to the Gentiles.
  • Romans 15:27 It hath pleased them verily; and their debtors they are. For if the Gentiles have been made partakers of their spiritual things, their duty is also to minister unto them in carnal things.
  • 1 Thessalonians 2:8 So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us.

“beloved” Greek G27 · used in 61 verses

  • Matthew 12:18 Behold my servant, whom I have chosen; my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased: I will put my spirit upon him, and he shall shew judgment to the Gentiles.
  • 2 Corinthians 7:1 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
  • 1 Peter 2:11 Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul;

“voice” Greek G5456 · used in 129 verses

  • Matthew 2:18 In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not.
  • John 18:37 Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.
  • Revelation 1:12 And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned, I saw seven golden candlesticks;