King James Version

What Does Matthew 11:15 Mean?

Matthew 11:15 in the King James Version says “He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.” — study this verse from Matthew chapter 11 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.”

Matthew 11:15 · KJV

Context

13

For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John.

14

And if ye will receive it, this is Elias, which was for to come.

15

He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

16

But whereunto shall I liken this generation? It is like unto children sitting in the markets, and calling unto their fellows,

17

And saying, We have piped unto you, and ye have not danced; we have mourned unto you, and ye have not lamented.

Read Matthew 11 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
'He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.' This refrain (repeated in Matthew 13:9, 13:43, Mark 4:9, Luke 8:8, Revelation 2-3) distinguishes physical hearing from spiritual comprehension. Everyone has physical ears, but 'ears to hear' spiritually is God's gift (Matthew 13:11). The phrase is both invitation and warning: invitation to those with spiritual capacity to understand and act on Jesus's words; warning that many will hear audibly without comprehending spiritually (Matthew 13:13-15). Jesus thus divides His audience: those with regenerated hearts hear and obey; those with hardened hearts hear and resist. Reformed theology sees this demonstrating the necessity of divine illumination—natural human capacity cannot grasp spiritual truth (1 Corinthians 2:14). The Holy Spirit must open ears and hearts. This provides both humility (if you understand, it's God's gift) and urgency (respond to what you hear lest hardness increase). The verse also implies accountability: hearing brings responsibility. Those who hear clearly will give account for their response (Luke 12:48).

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

This formula echoes Old Testament prophetic calls: 'Hear, O Israel' (Deuteronomy 6:4), Isaiah's lament over those with ears but don't hear (Isaiah 6:9-10), Ezekiel's contrast between those who hear and refuse versus those who hear and obey (Ezekiel 3:27). Jesus employs prophetic pattern: after delivering significant teaching, He issues this summons, distinguishing receptive from resistant hearers. The original audience heard the same words but with vastly different results: disciples believed and followed; religious leaders rejected and plotted murder. This pattern continued through church history. The same sermons that ignited Protestant Reformation hardened others against it. The same gospel message that transforms some repels others. Jesus's formula thus proves prophetically accurate across two millennia: spiritual hearing depends not on message clarity, preacher eloquence, or intellectual capacity, but on God's sovereign gift of regeneration opening ears and hearts.

Reflection Questions

  1. How do you cultivate spiritual hearing—sensitivity to God's Word beyond mere intellectual comprehension?
  2. What evidence demonstrates you have 'ears to hear'—how does understanding translate to obedience?
  3. What does this repeated formula teach about the nature of faith and the necessity of divine grace for belief?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 5 words
ὁ1 of 5
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἔχων2 of 5

“He that hath”

G2192

to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio

ὦτα3 of 5

“ears”

G3775

the ear (physically or mentally)

ἀκουέτω4 of 5

“let him hear”

G191

to hear (in various senses)

ἀκουέτω5 of 5

“let him hear”

G191

to hear (in various senses)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Matthew 11:15 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Matthew 11:15 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Matthew 13:9Luke 8:8Mark 4:23Matthew 13:43Revelation 2:7Mark 4:9

Test Your Knowledge

Matthew 11 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterMatthew Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read Matthew 11 with CommentaryAll Matthew ChaptersComplete Matthew QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes