11:11 11:11

Matthew 11:12

11:13 11:13

Bible Versions

And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force.
And {G1161} from {G575} the days {G2250} of John {G2491} the Baptist {G910} until {G2193} now {G737} the kingdom {G932} of heaven {G3772} suffereth violence {G971}, and {G2532} the violent {G973} take {G726} it {G846} by force {G726}.
From the time of Yochanan the Immerser until now, the Kingdom of Heaven has been suffering violence; yes, violent ones are trying to snatch it away.
From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has been subject to violence, and the violent lay claim to it.
And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and men of violence take it by force.

Matthew 11:12 KJV is a profound and often debated statement by Jesus, delivered in the context of His discourse concerning John the Baptist. This verse highlights a significant shift in the spiritual landscape with the arrival of the Kingdom of Heaven.

Context

This verse immediately follows Jesus's high praise for John the Baptist, whom He identifies as more than a prophet and the Elijah who was to come (Matthew 11:10). John's ministry marked a pivotal turning point, signaling the imminent arrival of the Kingdom of Heaven. His bold preaching of repentance (Matthew 3:2) and baptism prepared the way for Jesus. The phrase "from the days of John the Baptist until now" therefore refers to the period of intense spiritual activity and the dawning of God's direct rule on Earth.

Key Themes and Messages

  • The Kingdom's Dynamic Arrival: With John's ministry, the Kingdom of Heaven burst onto the scene with unprecedented power and urgency. It was no longer a distant hope but an present reality, demanding a response.
  • Zealous Pursuit of the Kingdom: One prominent interpretation suggests that "the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force" means that the Kingdom is being entered with great zeal, passion, and spiritual forcefulness. People are pressing in, eager to be part of God's reign, overcoming obstacles and traditional barriers. This reflects a spiritual intensity in seeking God's will and righteousness (Matthew 6:33).
  • Opposition to the Kingdom: An alternative, though less common, interpretation posits that the Kingdom is under attack, suffering violence from those who oppose it, such as the religious leaders or those who rejected John's message and Jesus's teachings. The "violent" would then refer to those who violently resist or seek to suppress the Kingdom's advance, as seen in the persecution of John (Matthew 14:10) and later Jesus.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek words used here are crucial for understanding the verse. "Suffereth violence" comes from biazetai (βιάζεται), which can mean "is forced," "is entered by force," or "is assailed." The word for "violent" is biastai (βιασταὶ), referring to those who use force or are zealous. The ambiguity allows for both interpretations, but many scholars lean towards the idea of a spiritual forcefulness or earnestness from those seeking to enter the Kingdom, rather than physical violence against it. This aligns with the parallel passage in Luke 16:16, which states, "since that time the kingdom of God is preached, and every man presseth into it."

Practical Application

For believers today, Matthew 11:12 serves as a powerful call to spiritual earnestness and commitment. It suggests that entering and living within the Kingdom of Heaven requires more than passive interest; it demands active, zealous pursuit. This "force" is not one of aggression, but of fervent faith, determined prayer, and a willingness to overcome spiritual apathy and worldly distractions. It encourages Christians to strive to enter the narrow gate and live out their faith with passion, recognizing the immense value and transformative power of God's reign in their lives.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Luke 16:16

    The law and the prophets [were] until John: since that time the kingdom of God is preached, and every man presseth into it.

  • Luke 13:24

    Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.

  • Ephesians 6:11

    Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

  • Ephesians 6:13

    Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

  • Philippians 2:12

    ¶ Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.

  • John 6:27

    Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed.

  • Matthew 21:23

    ¶ And when he was come into the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came unto him as he was teaching, and said, By what authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee this authority?
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