King James Version

What Does Matthew 16:3 Mean?

Matthew 16:3 in the King James Version says “And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowring. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the ...” — study this verse from Matthew chapter 16 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowring. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times?”

Matthew 16:3 · KJV

Context

1

The Pharisees also with the Sadducees came, and tempting desired him that he would shew them a sign from heaven.

2

He answered and said unto them, When it is evening, ye say, It will be fair weather: for the sky is red.

3

And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowring. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times?

4

A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas. And he left them, and departed.

5

And when his disciples were come to the other side, they had forgotten to take bread.

Read Matthew 16 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This text illustrates key Reformed principles: sola Scriptura, sola gratia, and sola fide. The passage demonstrates how God's Word speaks authoritatively to human need, revealing both our depravity and God's merciful provision through Christ.

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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 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 · 24 words
καὶ1 of 24

“And”

G2532

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

πρωΐ2 of 24

“in the morning”

G4404

at dawn; by implication, the day-break watch

Σήμερον3 of 24

“to day”

G4594

on the (i.e., this) day (or night current or just passed); generally, now (i.e., at present, hitherto)

χειμών,4 of 24

“It will be foul weather”

G5494

akin to the base of 5490 through the idea of a channel), meaning a storm (as pouring rain); by implication, the rainy season, i.e., winter

πυῤῥάζει5 of 24

“is red”

G4449

to redden (intransitively)

γὰρ6 of 24

“for”

G1063

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

στυγνάζων7 of 24

“and lowring”

G4768

to render gloomy, i.e., (by implication) glower (be overcast with clouds, or sombreness of speech)

ὁ8 of 24
G3588

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

οὐρανοῦ9 of 24

“of the sky”

G3772

the sky; by extension, heaven (as the abode of god); by implication, happiness, power, eternity; specially, the gospel (christianity)

ὑποκριταί,10 of 24

“O ye hypocrites”

G5273

an actor under an assumed character (stage-player), i.e., (figuratively) a dissembler ("hypocrite"

τὸ11 of 24
G3588

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

μὲν12 of 24
G3303

properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)

πρόσωπον13 of 24

“the face”

G4383

the front (as being towards view), i.e., the countenance, aspect, appearance, surface; by implication, presence, person

τοῦ14 of 24
G3588

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

οὐρανοῦ15 of 24

“of the sky”

G3772

the sky; by extension, heaven (as the abode of god); by implication, happiness, power, eternity; specially, the gospel (christianity)

γινώσκετε16 of 24

“ye can”

G1097

to "know" (absolutely) in a great variety of applications and with many implications (as follow, with others not thus clearly expressed)

διακρίνειν,17 of 24

“discern”

G1252

to separate thoroughly, i.e., (literally and reflexively) to withdraw from, or (by implication) oppose; figuratively, to discriminate (by implication,

τὰ18 of 24
G3588

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

δὲ19 of 24

“but”

G1161

but, and, etc

σημεῖα20 of 24

“discern the signs”

G4592

an indication, especially ceremonially or supernaturally

τῶν21 of 24
G3588

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

καιρῶν22 of 24

“of the times”

G2540

an occasion, i.e., set or proper time

οὐ23 of 24

“not”

G3756

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

δύνασθε24 of 24

“can ye”

G1410

to be able or possible

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 16:3 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 16:3 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Luke 12:561 Chronicles 12:32Luke 13:15Matthew 11:5Matthew 7:5Luke 11:44

Test Your Knowledge

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