Matthew 21:17

And he left them, and went out of the city into Bethany; and he lodged there.

And {G2532} he left {G2641} them {G846}, and went {G1831} out of {G1854} the city {G4172} into {G1519} Bethany {G963}; and {G2532} he lodged {G835} there {G1563}.

With that, he left them and went outside the city to Beit-Anyah, where he spent the night.

Then He left them and went out of the city to Bethany, where He spent the night.

And he left them, and went forth out of the city to Bethany, and lodged there.

Context of Matthew 21:17

Matthew 21:17 marks a transition point at the close of a momentous day during Jesus' final week in Jerusalem, often referred to as Passion Week. Immediately preceding this verse, Jesus had made His triumphal entry into Jerusalem, followed by the dramatic cleansing of the temple, driving out merchants and money changers. He then healed the blind and lame within the temple courts and faced a direct confrontation with the religious authorities who questioned His authority.

Having spent the day engaging in powerful acts and intense discussions in the heart of the city, Jesus "left them" (referring to the crowds and religious leaders) and sought rest. This daily pattern of leaving Jerusalem to lodge outside the city was common for Jesus during this final week, likely to avoid night arrests and to find a peaceful retreat from the city's hostility and demands.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Jesus' Humanity and Need for Rest: This verse highlights Jesus' genuine humanity. Despite His divine nature, He experienced physical fatigue and the need for rest and retreat, just like any person. It underscores His full identification with humanity.
  • Strategic Withdrawal: Jesus' departure from Jerusalem was a deliberate act. It was a strategic withdrawal from the intense pressure and opposition within the city, allowing Him to regroup and prepare for the escalating conflict and His ultimate sacrifice.
  • Bethany as a Sanctuary: Bethany served as a place of refuge and comfort for Jesus. It was a village approximately two miles east of Jerusalem, on the eastern slope of the Mount of Olives. It was famously the home of His dear friends Mary, Martha, and Lazarus (see John 11:1), though this verse simply states He lodged there. This regular retreat suggests a need for solace and respite among trusted companions.

Geographical and Cultural Insight

Bethany (Greek: Bethania) means "house of dates" or "house of affliction." Its close proximity to Jerusalem made it an ideal overnight stop for pilgrims and travelers. For Jesus, it was more than just a convenient lodging; it became His nightly base during the final days leading up to His crucifixion. This location provided a quiet contrast to the bustling, often hostile, environment of Jerusalem. Lodging outside the city walls was also a practical decision, as the city itself would be crowded with Passover pilgrims.

Practical Application

Matthew 21:17 offers several timeless lessons for believers today:

  1. The Importance of Rest: Even Jesus, with His vital mission, prioritized rest and withdrawal. This reminds us of the importance of taking breaks, finding quiet moments, and seeking physical and spiritual rejuvenation, especially after periods of intense activity or conflict.
  2. Seeking Refuge: When facing spiritual or emotional battles, it is wise to seek out places or relationships that offer peace, support, and spiritual refreshment. Just as Bethany was a haven for Jesus, we need our own "Bethanys"—places or people where we can find solace and strength.
  3. Preparation for Future Challenges: Jesus' nightly retreat to Bethany was part of His preparation for the ultimate challenge of the cross. Similarly, our moments of rest and reflection can equip us for the trials and tasks that lie ahead, strengthening our resolve and faith.
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.

  • John 11:18

    Now Bethany was nigh unto Jerusalem, about fifteen furlongs off:

  • Mark 11:11

    And Jesus entered into Jerusalem, and into the temple: and when he had looked round about upon all things, and now the eventide was come, he went out unto Bethany with the twelve.

  • Luke 24:50

    ¶ And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them.

  • John 11:1

    ¶ Now a certain [man] was sick, [named] Lazarus, of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha.

  • Mark 11:19

    And when even was come, he went out of the city.

  • Matthew 16:4

    A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas. And he left them, and departed.

  • Matthew 26:6

    ¶ Now when Jesus was in Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper,

Add TrulyRandomVerse to your Home Screen for quick access!

← Back