Matthew 8:21 (KJV)

What does Matthew 8:21 mean?

Matthew 8:21 describes how one of Jesus’ disciples asked for permission to first go and bury his father before following Jesus. The disciple calls Jesus “Lord” and requests to delay following Him until he has taken care of this important family duty.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking with a group of His followers, and another disciple steps forward with this request. The verse shows the disciple’s desire to honor his family responsibilities, even as he recognizes Jesus’ authority by calling Him “Lord.” The request highlights the tension between following Jesus and fulfilling traditional family obligations, setting up the next verse where Jesus responds.

The Greek behind Matthew 8:21

• κύριε (kurie): This word means “Lord” and shows the disciple is addressing Jesus with respect and acknowledging His authority.
• ἐπίτρεψόν (epitrepson): Translated as “suffer” in the KJV, this word means “permit” or “allow.” The disciple is not refusing to follow, but asking for Jesus’ permission to delay.
• πρῶτον (prōton): This word means “first,” emphasizing the disciple’s wish to take care of his father’s burial before anything else. It shows the priority he places on his family duty.

Why Matthew 8:21 matters

• Matthew 8:21 clarifies that even sincere followers of Jesus sometimes struggle with balancing spiritual commitments and important family responsibilities.
• The verse sets up a key teaching moment in the next verse, where Jesus challenges common expectations about what it means to follow Him.
• This request helps the reader see the real-life costs and decisions involved in discipleship, not just for the original audience but for anyone considering what it means to follow Jesus.