Matthew 12:8

For the Son of man is Lord even of the sabbath day.

For {G1063} the Son {G5207} of man {G444} is {G2076} Lord {G2962} even {G2532} of the sabbath day {G4521}.

For the Son of Man is Lord of Shabbat!"

For the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath.”

For the Son of man is lord of the sabbath.

Commentary on Matthew 12:8 (KJV)

Matthew 12:8, "For the Son of man is Lord even of the sabbath day," is a pivotal statement by Jesus concerning his authority over the Sabbath, a cornerstone of Jewish law and tradition. This declaration concludes a dispute with the Pharisees regarding his disciples plucking grain on the Sabbath, which they considered unlawful work.

Context

This verse follows directly from the account in Matthew 12:1-7, where Jesus' disciples were criticized by the Pharisees for plucking heads of grain on the Sabbath. Jesus defends their actions by citing two Old Testament examples: King David eating the consecrated showbread (see 1 Samuel 21:6) and the temple priests performing work on the Sabbath without guilt. He then makes the profound statement that "one greater than the temple is here" (Matthew 12:6) and emphasizes God's desire for "mercy, and not sacrifice" (Matthew 9:13, also Hosea 6:6). Verse 8 serves as the ultimate assertion of his authority, declaring his supremacy even over the Sabbath.

Key Themes

  • Jesus' Authority and Lordship: This verse unequivocally states Jesus' divine authority. By claiming to be "Lord even of the sabbath day," Jesus asserts his right to interpret, define, and ultimately supersede the rigid interpretations of the Sabbath law enforced by the religious leaders. This claim is a direct challenge to their legalistic system.
  • The Purpose of the Sabbath: While not explicitly stated in this verse, the parallel passage in Mark 2:27 clarifies that "The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath." Jesus teaches that the Sabbath was intended for humanity's benefit—for rest, worship, and spiritual renewal—not as a burdensome set of rules that stifled compassion or human need.
  • Mercy Over Legalism: This declaration reinforces Jesus' consistent emphasis on the spirit of the law over its letter, prioritizing compassion and human well-being over strict ritualistic adherence.

Linguistic Insights

The title "Son of man" (Greek: ho huios tou anthrōpou) is a significant self-designation of Jesus. While it highlights his humanity, it also carries profound messianic and divine connotations, especially echoing the figure in Daniel 7:13-14 who is given everlasting dominion and glory. The term "Lord" (Greek: kyrios) signifies supreme authority, ownership, and mastery. When Jesus states he is "Lord of the Sabbath," it means he is the ultimate authority over its principles and application, much like a master over his domain.

Practical Application

Matthew 12:8 encourages believers to look beyond rigid legalism and embrace the true spirit of God's commands. It reminds us that Jesus Christ is the ultimate authority, not only over religious observances but over all aspects of life. For Christians, this means understanding that our freedom in Christ allows us to serve God in ways that prioritize love, mercy, and genuine worship, rather than getting caught up in empty rituals or man-made rules. It calls us to recognize Jesus as the central figure of our faith, whose authority transcends all human constructs and traditions.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Mark 2:28

    Therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath.

  • Luke 6:5

    And he said unto them, That the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath.

  • John 5:17

    ¶ But Jesus answered them, My Father worketh hitherto, and I work.

  • John 5:23

    That all [men] should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him.

  • Mark 9:4

    And there appeared unto them Elias with Moses: and they were talking with Jesus.

  • Mark 9:7

    And there was a cloud that overshadowed them: and a voice came out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son: hear him.

  • Matthew 9:6

    But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (then saith he to the sick of the palsy,) Arise, take up thy bed, and go unto thine house.

Add TrulyRandomVerse to your Home Screen for quick access!

← Back