Matthew 16:21- From that time on Jesus began to explain to his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life.
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse marks a shift in Jesus’ ministry as He begins to prepare His disciples for His coming death and resurrection. Up to this point, Jesus’ focus had been on teaching and performing miracles, but now He openly explains the path He must take as the Messiah. He tells them plainly that He will suffer at the hands of the religious leaders, be killed, and rise again on the third day. This was likely shocking for the disciples, as they had expected a triumphant, conquering Messiah, not one who would suffer and die. Jesus’ words highlight that His mission was not about earthly power but about spiritual salvation through His sacrifice.
Historical Context
The religious leaders Jesus refers to—the elders, chief priests, and teachers of the law—were the most powerful figures in Jewish society. They opposed Jesus because His teachings challenged their authority and exposed their hypocrisy. The idea of a suffering Messiah was difficult for first-century Jews to accept because their expectations were shaped by prophecies of a victorious ruler who would restore Israel’s glory. However, Jesus was fulfilling prophecies like Isaiah 53, which describe the Messiah as a suffering servant who would bear the sins of the people.
The mention of Jesus’ resurrection on the third day aligns with Jewish belief that the third day symbolized God’s intervention and restoration (Hosea 6:2).
Theological Implications
This verse underscores the necessity of Jesus’ suffering, death, and resurrection as part of God’s plan for salvation. Theologically, it reminds us that sin requires atonement, and Jesus willingly took the punishment for humanity’s sins to reconcile us to God. His resurrection demonstrates His victory over sin and death, offering eternal life to all who believe in Him. This verse also highlights the tension between human expectations and God’s divine plan, challenging us to trust in God’s wisdom even when it doesn’t align with our own understanding.
Literary Analysis
The phrase “from that time on” signals a significant turning point in the Gospel narrative. Jesus’ use of “must” emphasizes the inevitability and divine purpose of His mission. The structure of the verse—describing suffering, death, and resurrection—follows a pattern that highlights both the cost and the victory of Jesus’ mission. The contrast between the religious leaders’ role in His suffering and God’s power to raise Him to life underscores the ultimate triumph of God’s plan over human opposition.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Isaiah 53:3-5: Prophecy about the suffering servant who is wounded for our transgressions.
- Psalm 22:16-18: A psalm that foreshadows the Messiah’s suffering.
- Luke 24:25-27: After His resurrection, Jesus explains to His disciples how the Scriptures pointed to His suffering and glory.
- 1 Corinthians 15:3-4: Paul summarizes the gospel, emphasizing that Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose on the third day according to the Scriptures.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a reminder of the central message of the gospel: Jesus’ death and resurrection are the foundation of our faith. It calls us to reflect on the cost of our salvation and the depth of God’s love in sending His Son to die for us. This verse also challenges us to trust God’s plan, even when it involves hardship or sacrifice, knowing that His ultimate purpose is for our good and His glory.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is at the heart of this verse. Jesus’ willingness to suffer and die demonstrates the lengths God was willing to go to redeem humanity. His resurrection on the third day is a powerful display of His love and victory over sin and death, offering hope and eternal life to all who believe. This verse shows that God’s love is not only sacrificial but also victorious, ensuring that His purposes are fulfilled.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse focuses on Jesus’ mission as the Messiah. It reveals His obedience to the Father’s will and His role as the Savior who would suffer, die, and rise again to bring salvation to humanity. Jesus’ resurrection is the cornerstone of Christian faith, proving His authority over death and His ability to offer eternal life. This verse also connects to Jesus’ teachings about taking up our own crosses and following Him, pointing to the cost and reward of discipleship.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why do you think the idea of a suffering Messiah was so difficult for the disciples to understand?
- How does Jesus’ willingness to suffer and die for you impact the way you view your faith?
- In what ways does this verse challenge you to trust God’s plan, even when it involves hardship or uncertainty?
- How can reflecting on Jesus’ resurrection give you hope in your own life?
- What steps can you take to live in light of the truth that Jesus died and rose again for your salvation?
This verse calls us to reflect on the incredible sacrifice Jesus made for us and the victory of His resurrection. It reminds us that God’s plan is always for our ultimate good, even when it involves suffering. As followers of Jesus, we are invited to trust in His love, live in the hope of His resurrection, and share the message of salvation with others.