Matthew 11:15

Matthew 11:15, "He that hath ears to hear, let him hear," is a profound and frequently repeated call from Jesus, urging His listeners to move beyond mere physical hearing to a deeper, spiritual understanding of His words.

Context

This verse appears at the conclusion of Jesus' discourse concerning John the Baptist. In the preceding verses (Matthew 11:7-14), Jesus has praised John as more than a prophet, identifying him as the messenger foretold in Malachi (Malachi 3:1) who would prepare the way for the Messiah. Specifically, Jesus states that John is the Elijah who was to come (Matthew 11:14). Given the weight and significance of these declarations, especially concerning the fulfillment of prophecy and the identity of key figures in God's plan, Jesus issues this solemn imperative. It signals that what He has just revealed is not for casual reception but demands careful and discerning attention.

Key Themes

• Spiritual Discernment: The phrase emphasizes that true understanding of spiritual truths requires more than just physical hearing; it demands an open heart, an active mind, and a willingness to accept and apply God's revelation. It's a call to perceive the deeper meaning behind Jesus' teachings.
• The Importance of Jesus' Words: By prefacing or concluding significant statements with this phrase, Jesus underscores the critical nature of what He is saying. His words are not merely human opinions but divine truth, carrying eternal implications.
• Responsibility to Hear: The imperative "let him hear" places the responsibility squarely on the individual. Not everyone who hears physically will hear spiritually. Those who are receptive are encouraged to listen attentively and respond appropriately.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek phrase, "Ho echōn ōta akouein akouetō" (ὁ ἔχων ὦτα ἀκούειν ἀκουέτω), literally means "The one having ears to hear, let him hear." The repetition of the verb "hear" (akouein and akouetō) intensifies the command, highlighting the difference between mere auditory perception and genuine comprehension and obedience. It implies a capacity for understanding that not all possess or are willing to exercise.

Related Scriptures

This exact phrase, or a very similar one, is repeated by Jesus in numerous other contexts throughout the Gospels, often following parables or profound statements. For example, in the Parable of the Sower, Jesus concludes with a similar call to spiritual receptivity (Matthew 13:9). It also appears in the Book of Revelation, where the Spirit calls the churches to hear what He says (Revelation 2:7).

Practical Application

For believers today, Matthew 11:15 serves as a timeless reminder to approach God's Word with humility and an earnest desire for spiritual understanding. It challenges us to:

1. Listen Actively: Don't just passively receive information, but engage with Scripture, seeking its deeper truths.
2. Seek Discernment: Pray for the Holy Spirit to open your mind and heart to understand God's will and purpose.
3. Respond Obediently: True hearing leads to action. When we genuinely "hear" what God is saying, it should transform our lives and lead us to obey His commands.

In a world full of noise and distractions, Jesus' call to "hear" remains profoundly relevant, inviting us to tune into divine wisdom and live in light of eternal truth.