King James Version

What Does Matthew 17:8 Mean?

Matthew 17:8 in the King James Version says “And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only.” — study this verse from Matthew chapter 17 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only.”

Matthew 17:8 · KJV

Salvation

Context

6

And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their face, and were sore afraid.

7

And Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid.

8

And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only.

9

And as they came down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, saying, Tell the vision to no man, until the Son of man be risen again from the dead.

10

And his disciples asked him, saying, Why then say the scribes that Elias must first come?

Read Matthew 17 full chapter

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

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. What does this text reveal about human nature and God's grace?
  2. How can you apply this teaching to current struggles or questions?
  3. What changes in thinking or behavior does this passage require?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 12 words
ἐπάραντες1 of 12

“when they had lifted up”

G1869

to raise up (literally or figuratively)

δὲ2 of 12

“And”

G1161

but, and, etc

τοὺς3 of 12
G3588

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

ὀφθαλμοὺς4 of 12

“eyes”

G3788

the eye (literally or figuratively); by implication, vision; figuratively, envy (from the jealous side-glance)

αὐτῶν5 of 12
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

οὐδένα6 of 12

“no man”

G3762

not even one (man, woman or thing), i.e., none, nobody, nothing

εἶδον7 of 12

“they saw”

G1492

used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl

εἰ8 of 12
G1487

if, whether, that, etc

μὴ9 of 12
G3361

(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether

τὸν10 of 12
G3588

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

Ἰησοῦν11 of 12

“Jesus”

G2424

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

μόνον12 of 12

“only”

G3441

remaining, i.e., sole or single; by implication, mere

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 17:8 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 17:8 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Mark 9:8Luke 9:36Acts 12:10-11

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