King James Version

What Does Matthew 16:20 Mean?

Matthew 16:20 in the King James Version says “Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the Christ.” — study this verse from Matthew chapter 16 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the Christ.”

Matthew 16:20 · KJV

Context

18

And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. Peter: this name signifies a rock

19

And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.

20

Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the Christ.

21

From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day.

22

Then Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not be unto thee. Be: Gr. Pity thyself

Read Matthew 16 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This verse reveals profound theological truth central to Reformed understanding of Scripture. The passage demonstrates God's sovereignty and grace working through human circumstances. Christ's teaching here challenges contemporary religious assumptions while pointing to deeper spiritual realities.

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Historical & Cultural Context

This verse originates in Jesus' ministry during a pivotal period. The first-century Jewish context included Roman occupation, Pharisaic religious authority, and messianic expectations. Understanding these factors illuminates the passage's significance.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this passage challenge your understanding of God's character?
  2. What practical application does this truth have in your daily walk?
  3. How should this verse shape your priorities and decisions?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 14 words
τότε1 of 14

“Then”

G5119

the when, i.e., at the time that (of the past or future, also in consecution)

διεστείλατο2 of 14

“charged he”

G1291

to set (oneself) apart (figuratively, distinguish), i.e., (by implication) to enjoin

τοῖς3 of 14
G3588

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

μαθηταῖς4 of 14

“disciples”

G3101

a learner, i.e., pupil

αὐτός5 of 14

“he”

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

ἵνα6 of 14

“that”

G2443

in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)

μηδενὶ7 of 14

“no man”

G3367

not even one (man, woman, thing)

εἴπωσιν8 of 14

“they should tell”

G2036

to speak or say (by word or writing)

ὅτι9 of 14

“that”

G3754

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

αὐτός10 of 14

“he”

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

ἐστιν11 of 14

“was”

G2076

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

Ἰησοῦς12 of 14

“Jesus”

G2424

jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites

ὁ13 of 14
G3588

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

Χριστός14 of 14

“the Christ”

G5547

anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus

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 16:20 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 16:20 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Mark 8:30Luke 9:21Matthew 17:9John 1:41Luke 9:36Matthew 8:4

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