Matthew 17:7

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} Jesus {G2424} came {G4334} and touched {G680} them {G846}, and {G2532} said {G2036}, Arise {G1453}, and {G2532} be {G5399} not {G3361} afraid {G5399}.

Complete Jewish Bible

But Yeshua came and touched them. "Get up!" he said, "Don't be afraid."

Berean Standard Bible

Then Jesus came over and touched them. “Get up,” He said. “Do not be afraid.”

American Standard Version

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

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Following the breathtaking and terrifying experience of the Transfiguration, where Peter, James, and John witnessed Jesus' divine glory and heard the voice of God the Father, the disciples were overcome with fear and fell prostrate. In this moment of profound awe and terror, Jesus compassionately approaches them, touches them, and speaks words of immediate comfort and reassurance, commanding them to rise and banish their fear. This brief but powerful interaction highlights Jesus' tender care for His disciples, His authority over human emotion, and His role as the ultimate source of peace in the face of overwhelming divine revelation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Matthew 17:7 immediately follows the climactic event of the Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-8). Jesus had taken Peter, James, and John to a high mountain where He was transfigured before them, His face shining like the sun and His clothes becoming as white as light. Moses and Elijah, representing the Law and the Prophets, appeared and conversed with Him. Peter, overwhelmed, suggested building three shelters (Matthew 17:4), demonstrating a human attempt to contain and prolong the divine experience. Before he could finish speaking, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud—God the Father's voice—declared, "[This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him](/matthew/17-5 "Matthew 17:5 - God's Declaration at the Transfiguration")!" This divine affirmation, echoing the voice heard at Jesus' baptism, caused the disciples to fall on their faces in profound fear (Matthew 17:6). It is into this state of prostration and terror that Jesus steps, offering comfort and restoration. The subsequent verses (Matthew 17:9-13) show Jesus instructing them not to tell anyone about the vision until after His resurrection, and then discussing the coming of Elijah (John the Baptist).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Mountains in biblical narratives often serve as places of divine encounter and revelation. Moses received the Law on Mount Sinai, and Elijah encountered God on Mount Horeb. The Transfiguration on a high mountain thus aligns with a long tradition of God revealing Himself to His prophets and people in elevated, sacred spaces. The disciples' reaction of falling on their faces in fear is a common and appropriate response to a theophany, or manifestation of God's presence, throughout the Old Testament (e.g., [Exodus 3:6](/exodus/3-6 "Exodus 3:6 - Moses' Fear at the Burning Bush"), [Isaiah 6:5](/isaiah/6-5 "Isaiah 6:5 - Isaiah's Vision of God")). Such encounters were understood to be dangerous for sinful humans, leading to an overwhelming sense of unworthiness and dread. Jesus' compassionate response, touching them and commanding them not to be afraid, directly counters this ancient fear, demonstrating a new covenant relationship where divine presence brings comfort rather than terror.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes within Matthew's Gospel and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **divine revelation and authority**, as Jesus' transfiguration and the Father's voice confirm His unique identity as the Son of God, the one to whom all should listen. Secondly, it highlights the theme of **human fear and divine comfort**. The disciples' terror is a natural human response to the overwhelming glory of God, but Jesus' immediate and tender intervention demonstrates God's compassionate nature and His desire to alleviate human fear. This echoes passages like [Isaiah 41:10](/isaiah/41-10 "Isaiah 41:10 - Do Not Fear, For I Am With You") where God promises to be with His people. Thirdly, it speaks to **Jesus' pastoral care and leadership**. He doesn't leave His disciples in their state of terror but actively approaches them, touches them, and speaks words of life and courage, reinforcing His role as a shepherd who cares for His flock. This moment foreshadows His continued care for His followers in the face of future trials and anxieties, as seen in His promises of peace in [John 14:27](/john/14-27 "John 14:27 - Jesus' Gift of Peace").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **came (Greek, _prosérchomai'_):** This word, meaning "to approach" or "come near," emphasizes Jesus' intentional movement towards the terrified disciples. It's not a passive observation but an active, compassionate drawing near, signifying His willingness to engage with their fear and provide comfort.
* **touched (Greek, _háptomai'_):** This verb describes a gentle, personal contact. Unlike a mere brush, it implies an attaching oneself to, suggesting intimacy, care, and often, in the Gospels, a connection that brings healing or comfort. Here, it is a physical manifestation of empathy and reassurance, breaking through their fear with a tangible act of love.
* **Arise (Greek, _egeírō'_):** This command means "to waken," "rouse," or "lift up." In this context, it's a call to move from a prostrate, terrified, and helpless state to an upright, composed, and active posture. It's a spiritual and physical call to recover, to stand in faith, and to be ready to continue their journey with Him, signifying a transition from fear-induced paralysis to renewed purpose.
* **afraid (Greek, _phobéō'_):** Derived from _phóbos_ (fear, dread), this verb means "to be alarmed" or "to fear." Jesus' command "be not afraid" (using the negative particle _mḗ_) is a common biblical injunction against paralyzing fear, especially in the presence of divine revelation. It's not a dismissal of the natural human emotion but a divine antidote to terror, calling for trust and courage rooted in His presence.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Jesus came and touched them":** This phrase describes Jesus' immediate and compassionate action. He actively approaches His prostrate, terrified disciples and initiates physical contact. This touch is not merely incidental but a deliberate act of comfort and reassurance, conveying His presence and empathy in a tangible way. It contrasts sharply with the overwhelming, disembodied voice of God the Father that had just filled them with dread, showing Jesus as the accessible, comforting Son.
* **"and said":** This simple conjunction introduces Jesus' verbal communication, indicating that His words follow His actions of presence and touch. It highlights the dual nature of His comfort: both physical and verbal, addressing both their physical posture (prostration) and their emotional state (fear).
* **"Arise":** This is a direct command, calling the disciples to move from their fallen, fearful position. It signifies a call to physical recovery and, more profoundly, a spiritual awakening from their terror. It is an invitation to stand upright, regain composure, and re-engage with the reality of Jesus' presence, rather than remaining paralyzed by the awe of the divine encounter.
* **"and be not afraid":** This second command directly addresses their overwhelming fear. It is a common divine reassurance throughout Scripture, particularly in moments of profound revelation or crisis. Jesus' words are authoritative and calming, dispelling the terror that had gripped them and inviting them into a state of peace and trust in His presence.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew 17:7 is rich with **Symbolism**, particularly in the acts of touching and rising. The **touch** of Jesus is symbolic of His intimate and compassionate care, breaking through the barrier of human fear with divine empathy. It signifies healing, not just of physical ailments but of the soul's terror. The command to **"Arise"** is symbolic of spiritual resurrection and empowerment, moving from a state of prostration and helplessness to one of renewed strength and purpose. There is also a powerful **Contrast** at play: the terrifying, overwhelming voice of God the Father from the cloud (Matthew 17:5-6) is immediately followed by the gentle, personal, and comforting presence and words of Jesus. This juxtaposition highlights Jesus' role as the approachable mediator of divine truth and comfort. The entire scene, following the Transfiguration, serves as a **Theophany**, a visible manifestation of God, which naturally evokes awe and fear, setting the stage for Jesus' comforting intervention.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 17:7 offers a profound theological insight into the character of God as revealed in Jesus Christ. It demonstrates that while divine glory can evoke overwhelming fear in sinful humanity, God's ultimate desire is not to terrify but to comfort and reassure. Jesus' actions—approaching, touching, and speaking words of peace—reveal His tender compassion and His authority over human fear. This passage underscores that true peace in the face of overwhelming divine power comes not from the absence of God, but from a personal relationship with Him, mediated through Christ. It teaches us that even in our most vulnerable and fearful moments, Jesus draws near to lift us up and calm our anxieties, inviting us to trust in His sovereign care rather than succumbing to terror.

* [Isaiah 41:10](/isaiah/41-10 "Isaiah 41:10 - Do Not Fear, For I Am With You")
* [Luke 5:10](/luke/5-10 "Luke 5:10 - Jesus Tells Simon Not to Fear")
* [Revelation 1:17-18](/revelation/1-17-18 "Revelation 1:17-18 - Jesus' Comfort to John")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 17:7 provides a timeless message of comfort and empowerment for believers navigating moments of fear, awe, or uncertainty. Just as the disciples were overwhelmed by a divine encounter, we too can be paralyzed by life's unexpected challenges, the weight of spiritual realities, or even the sheer majesty of God's presence. Jesus' response teaches us that in such moments, our first instinct should be to turn to Him. His compassionate approach and tangible touch remind us that He is not distant but intimately involved in our struggles. He doesn't condemn our fear but meets us in it, offering His calming presence and authoritative word. The command "Arise, and be not afraid" is a call to move beyond paralysis and despair, to stand firm in faith, and to find courage in His unwavering love. This passage encourages us to surrender our anxieties to Christ, trusting that His touch and His voice are sufficient to dispel our deepest fears and empower us to continue our journey with renewed hope and strength.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you feel most "on your face" with fear or overwhelm, and how might Jesus' touch and words speak to that specific situation?**
* **How does Jesus' compassionate approach in this verse challenge or affirm your understanding of God's character in moments of personal crisis?**
* **What does it mean practically to "arise" from a state of fear and "be not afraid" in your daily walk with Christ?**

### FAQ
**Why were the disciples so afraid after the Transfiguration?**

Answer: The disciples were overwhelmed by a profound **theophany**, a visible manifestation of God's glory. They witnessed Jesus' transfigured appearance, the presence of Moses and Elijah, and most significantly, heard the audible voice of God the Father declaring Jesus as His beloved Son ([Matthew 17:5](/matthew/17-5 "Matthew 17:5 - God's Declaration at the Transfiguration")). In ancient Jewish thought, a direct encounter with God's unmediated presence was often associated with death or severe judgment for sinful humans (e.g., [Exodus 33:20](/exodus/33-20 "Exodus 33:20 - No One Can See God and Live")). Their fear was a natural, instinctive response to the awe-inspiring, terrifying holiness of God's direct revelation, causing them to fall prostrate as a sign of reverence and terror.

**What is the significance of Jesus touching them?**

Answer: Jesus' touch is deeply significant. In the Gospels, Jesus' touch often conveys healing, comfort, and restoration (e.g., [Matthew 8:3](/matthew/8-3 "Matthew 8:3 - Jesus Touches and Heals a Leper"), [Matthew 9:29](/matthew/9-29 "Matthew 9:29 - Jesus Touches the Eyes of Two Blind Men")). Here, it's an act of profound compassion and intimacy. It breaks through their paralysis and fear with a tangible act of love and reassurance. Unlike the disembodied voice of the Father that caused terror, Jesus' physical presence and touch ground them back in reality, reminding them that the divine presence, when mediated through Him, brings comfort rather than destruction. It's a personal, empathetic gesture that bridges the gap between divine majesty and human fragility.

**How does "Arise, and be not afraid" apply to believers today?**

Answer: This command is profoundly relevant for believers today. "Arise" is a call to move from spiritual or emotional paralysis, fear, or despair to a posture of faith and action. It encourages us not to remain prostrate under the weight of fear or overwhelming circumstances, but to stand up in the strength that Christ provides. "Be not afraid" is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, a divine antidote to human anxiety and terror. It reminds us that in the presence of Jesus, we have no reason to be consumed by fear, for He is sovereign, compassionate, and capable of calming any storm, whether external or internal. It's an invitation to trust in His unfailing presence and power, knowing that He is with us always, even to the end of the age ([Matthew 28:20](/matthew/28-20 "Matthew 28:20 - The Great Commission and Jesus' Promise")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 17:7, though a moment of profound comfort to the disciples, points powerfully to the Christ-centered fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. Jesus, the Son of God revealed in glory on the mountain, is the ultimate source of comfort and courage for a fearful humanity. His compassionate approach and touch foreshadow His incarnation, where God Himself "came and touched" humanity in the person of Jesus, bridging the infinite gap between a holy God and sinful man ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). The command "Arise, and be not afraid" anticipates Jesus' triumph over death and sin, which is the ultimate source of human fear. Through His atoning work on the cross and His glorious resurrection, Jesus disarmed the powers of fear and death, enabling believers to "arise" to new life in Him ([Romans 6:4](/romans/6-4 "Romans 6:4 - Buried with Christ, Raised to New Life")). He is the one who, having experienced human suffering and fear, can truly empathize and offer perfect peace ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Jesus, Our High Priest")). Ultimately, this verse reminds us that the terrifying glory of God, which once caused humans to fall in dread, is now perfectly mediated through Jesus, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), allowing us to approach God's throne of grace with confidence, not fear ([Hebrews 4:16](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Approach the Throne of Grace with Confidence")).

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.

Cross-References

Daniel 10:18

Then there came again and touched me [one] like the appearance of a man, and he strengthened me,

Matthew 14:27

But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.

Daniel 8:18

Now as he was speaking with me, I was in a deep sleep on my face toward the ground: but he touched me, and set me upright.

Daniel 10:10

¶ And, behold, an hand touched me, which set me upon my knees and [upon] the palms of my hands.

Revelation 1:17

And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last:

Luke 24:5

And as they were afraid, and bowed down [their] faces to the earth, they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead?

Acts 9:6

And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord [said] unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.