Matthew 13:17
For verily I say unto you, That many prophets and righteous men have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them.
Matthew 13:17 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, Jesus is speaking to his disciples, explaining to them that they are blessed to be living in a time where they can witness the fulfillment of prophecies and hear teachings that many prophets and righteous men before them longed to experience but never did. Jesus is highlighting the privilege his disciples have in being able to see and hear the teachings firsthand. He is emphasizing the importance of their role in spreading the message of the Kingdom of God to others and the significance of their firsthand experience in understanding the truths of the scriptures. This verse serves as a reminder to the disciples of the responsibility they have in sharing the teachings they receive and the blessings they have received, and it also serves as a reminder to us today to appreciate the opportunity we have to learn and grow in our faith.
Theological Overview
This verse from the Gospel of Matthew emphasizes the privilege of the disciples in witnessing the fulfilment of God's plan through Jesus Christ. The use of the term "prophets and righteous men" signifies the highly esteemed figures in the Old Testament who looked forward to the coming of the Messiah. Through theological interpretation, we understand that the disciples were given a unique opportunity to witness firsthand the miracles and teachings of Jesus, which the prophets before them longed to see but never did. This verse highlights the concept of revelation and the unfolding of God's divine plan throughout history. By studying the context of this verse and delving into word studies, we gain a deeper appreciation for the significance of the disciples' role in the greater narrative of salvation. It serves as a reminder of the faithfulness of God to His people and the importance of being attentive to His purposes unfolding before us.
Matthew 13:17 in other translations
American Standard Version
For verily I say unto you, that many prophets and righteous men desired to see the things which ye see, and saw them not; and to hear the things which ye hear, and heard them not.
World English Bible
For most certainly I tell you that many prophets and righteous men desired to see the things which you see, and didn’t see them; and to hear the things which you hear, and didn’t hear them.
Douay-Rheims
For, amen, I say to you, many prophets and just men have desired to see the things that you see, and have not seen them: and to hear the things that you hear and have not heard them.
Geneva Bible (1599)
For verely I say vnto you, that many Prophets, and righteous men haue desired to see those things which ye see, and haue not seene them, and to heare those things which ye heare, and haue not heard them.