King James Version

What Does Matthew 16:11 Mean?

Matthew 16:11 in the King James Version says “How is it that ye do not understand that I spake it not to you concerning bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of ... — study this verse from Matthew chapter 16 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

How is it that ye do not understand that I spake it not to you concerning bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees?

Matthew 16:11 · KJV


Context

9

Do ye not yet understand, neither remember the five loaves of the five thousand, and how many baskets ye took up?

10

Neither the seven loaves of the four thousand, and how many baskets ye took up?

11

How is it that ye do not understand that I spake it not to you concerning bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees?

12

Then understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.

13

When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am?


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Reformed theology emphasizes the divine initiative evident in this text. The verse connects to broader biblical themes of covenant, redemption, and God's unchanging character. Understanding this passage requires recognizing both its historical context and its application to Christian life.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

First-century Palestine was marked by religious fervor and political tension. The passage reflects interactions between Jesus and various groups: Pharisees, Sadducees, disciples, and crowds. Each audience received teaching tailored to their needs and spiritual condition.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this verse deepen your appreciation for Christ?
  2. What false beliefs or practices does this text correct?
  3. How should you share this truth with others?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 17 words
πῶς1 of 17

How

G4459

an interrogative particle of manner; in what way? (sometimes the question is indirect, how?); also as exclamation, how much!

οὐ2 of 17

it not

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

νοεῖτε3 of 17

understand

G3539

to exercise the mind (observe), i.e., (figuratively) to comprehend, heed

ὅτι4 of 17

is it that

G3754

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

οὐ5 of 17

it not

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

περὶ6 of 17

concerning

G4012

properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas

ἄρτοῦ7 of 17

bread

G740

bread (as raised) or a loaf

εἶπον8 of 17

that I spake

G2036

to speak or say (by word or writing)

ὑμῖν9 of 17

to you

G5213

to (with or by) you

προσέχειν10 of 17

that ye should beware

G4337

(figuratively) to hold the mind (3563 implied) towards, i.e., pay attention to, be cautious about, apply oneself to, adhere to

ἀπὸ11 of 17

of

G575

"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)

τῆς12 of 17
G3588

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

ζύμης13 of 17

the leaven

G2219

ferment (as if boiling up)

τῶν14 of 17
G3588

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

Φαρισαίων15 of 17

of the Pharisees

G5330

a separatist, i.e., exclusively religious; a pharisean, i.e., jewish sectary

καὶ16 of 17

and

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

Σαδδουκαίων17 of 17

of the Sadducees

G4523

a sadducaean (i.e., tsadokian), or follower of a certain heretical israelite


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 16:11 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 16:11 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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