Understanding Matthew 20:19

Matthew 20:19 states: "And shall deliver him to the Gentiles to mock, and to scourge, and to crucify him: and the third day he shall rise again."

This verse is part of Jesus' predictions to His disciples regarding His impending suffering, death, and resurrection. The significance of this prediction has been commented on extensively by several esteemed biblical scholars.

Commentary Insights

The following insights are drawn from public domain commentaries including those of Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke.

1. Prophetic Foretelling of Suffering

Matthew Henry emphasizes that Jesus was fully aware of His fate, serving as a profound reminder of His mission on earth. The explicit mention of different forms of torment that He would endure showcases the depth of His sacrificial love for humanity.

2. The Role of the Gentiles

Albert Barnes points out that the reference to the "Gentiles" indicates the broad scope of Jesus' mission. This was not just a culminating Jewish event but a significant moment in which all nations would be impacted by His sacrifice, thus furthering the theme of inclusivity in the Christian faith.

3. The Promise of Resurrection

According to Adam Clarke, the declaration of His resurrection on the third day is a vital component of the Christian doctrine. It not only serves to provide hope to His followers but also affirms the belief in eternal life that is central to Christianity.

Cross-References: Related Scripture Insights

• Isaiah 53:5 - This Old Testament prophecy depicts the suffering servant and correlates directly with Jesus' suffering.
• Mark 10:33-34 - A parallel account of Jesus’ prediction reinforcing the connection among the Gospels.
• Luke 18:32-33 - Another Gospel account that highlights the seriousness of Jesus' prophecy about His suffering and resurrection.
• John 2:19 - Jesus speaks of His body as the temple, which will be destroyed and raised in three days, linking to His resurrection.
• Acts 2:23 - Peter’s sermon on the day of Pentecost emphasizes Jesus' predetermined suffering.
• Romans 4:25 - Discusses the significance of Jesus' death and resurrection for our justification.
• 1 Corinthians 15:4 - Affirms the resurrection as a core tenet of the faith.
• 1 Peter 2:24 - Connects the suffering of Christ to our healing and atonement.
• Hebrews 12:2 - Encourages believers to look unto Jesus, who endured the cross.
• Revelation 1:18 - Describes Jesus as the living one who was dead and is alive forevermore, affirming His victory over death.

Thematic Connections

The connections between these verses underscore a significant theme: the suffering and triumph of Jesus are central to God's redemptive plan. The continuity of prophecy from the Old Testament to the New Testament provides a rich understanding for biblical scholars and laypersons alike.

Tools for Deeper Study

For those interested in exploring the connections and cross-references within the Scripture, consider utilizing the following tools:

• Bible Concordance - A comprehensive resource for finding words and themes.
• Cross-Reference Bible Study Guides - Helps in identifying relationships across biblical texts.
• Bible Chain References - Links related verses in a sequence for easier study.

Conclusion

Understanding Matthew 20:19 involves recognizing the significance of Jesus' foretelling of His suffering, the inclusion of the Gentiles, and the assurance of His resurrection. This verse exemplifies the deep connections throughout Scripture, inviting believers to engage with their faith through comprehensive study and understanding of biblical texts.