Matthew·Chapter 17

How to Apply

This week, take a moment to reflect on your own questions about faith or life. Write them down or share them with someone you trust. Just like the disciples approached Jesus with their questions, you can approach God with yours. Ask for clarity, understanding, or guidance in areas where you're feeling uncertain. You might even want to spend some time reading parts of the Bible that relate to your questions, seeking to understand how they connect to your life today.

Chapter Context

This verse sits right after a powerful moment where Jesus was transfigured before His disciples, revealing His divine nature. That intense experience raised questions about the fulfillment of prophecies, especially regarding Elijah’s return. The disciples are still reeling from what they witnessed, and their question reflects their desire to understand why the religious teachers (the scribes) said that Elijah must come first. This inquiry not only shows their curiosity but also transitions the narrative into discussing the significance of Jesus' mission and the fulfillment of those prophecies, highlighting the connection between past expectations and present realities.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• and - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• the - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• disciples - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• asked - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• him - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• then - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• why - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• scribes - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• say - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• that - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

What questions do you have about your faith or understanding of God, and how can you bring those questions to Him this week?

Related Verses

• Malachi 4:5 - This verse prophesied that Elijah would come before the great day of the Lord, setting the stage for understanding the significance of Elijah's role.
• Matthew 11:14 - Jesus directly connects John the Baptist to Elijah's prophecy, indicating that the expectation of Elijah’s return was being fulfilled in a surprising way.
• Luke 1:17 - This verse speaks about John the Baptist preparing the way for Jesus, showing the continuity of God’s plan through history.
• Isaiah 40:3 - Written 700 years before this was written, it prophesies a voice crying out to prepare the way for the Lord, linking back to the expectations of messengers before the Messiah.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Matthew 17:10. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Divine Revelation, Faith and Doubt, Authority of Jesus, Fulfillment of Prophecy, Transformation, Healing and Compassion, Discipleship

Key Verses

Matthew 17:5, Matthew 17:8, Matthew 17:20, Matthew 17:19, Matthew 17:18

Historical Context

Matthew 17 is situated in the larger narrative of Jesus' ministry as recorded in the Gospel of Matthew, which emphasizes His role as the Messiah and teacher. Following Peter's confession of Jesus as the Christ in chapter 16, the Transfiguration serves as a pivotal affirmation of Jesus' divine nature. The chapter also reflects the ongoing struggle of the disciples to fully comprehend Jesus' mission and identity, particularly in light of Jewish expectations of the Messiah. The healing of the demon-possessed boy illustrates the continuing challenges faced by the disciples, as well as the authority of Jesus even in the face of disbelief. This chapter, written for a primarily Jewish audience, underscores Jesus' fulfillment of Old Testament expectations while also revealing the necessity of faith in His ministry.