Matthew 21:43

KJV

Therefore say I unto you, The kingdom of God shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof.

KJV (with Strong's)

Therefore {G1223}{G5124} say I {G3004} unto you {G5213},{G3754} The kingdom {G932} of God {G2316} shall be taken {G142} from {G575} you {G5216}, and {G2532} given {G1325} to a nation {G1484} bringing forth {G4160} the fruits {G2590} thereof {G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Therefore, I tell you that the Kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to the kind of people that will produce its fruit!"

Berean Standard Bible

Therefore I tell you that the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people who will produce its fruit.

American Standard Version

Therefore say I unto you, The kingdom of God shall be taken away from you, and shall be given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jesus delivers a stark declaration to the Jewish religious leaders, pronouncing divine judgment upon them for their rejection of Him. This verse, serving as the climactic interpretation of the Parable of the Wicked Tenants, reveals that the stewardship of God's kingdom, previously entrusted to Israel's leadership, would be irrevocably removed from them and bestowed upon a new "nation"—a spiritual community comprised of all who genuinely embrace Christ and demonstrate their faith through righteous living and spiritual fruitfulness.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** [Matthew 21:43](/matthew/21-43 "Matthew 21:43 - The Kingdom Taken and Given") stands as the interpretive climax of the [Parable of the Wicked Tenants](/matthew/21-33-41 "Matthew 21:33-41 - Parable of the Wicked Tenants"), which Jesus had just finished telling. This parable allegorically depicts God as the vineyard owner, Israel as the vineyard, the prophets as the servants sent to collect fruit, and ultimately Jesus as the owner's son who is killed by the wicked tenants (the Jewish religious leaders). Immediately preceding this parable, Jesus' authority was challenged by the chief priests and elders ([Matthew 21:23](/matthew/21-23 "Matthew 21:23 - Challenge to Jesus' Authority")), and His response in the parable, culminating in this verse, directly addresses their spiritual unfaithfulness and rejection of Him as the Messiah. The leaders themselves understood the parable was aimed at them ([Matthew 21:45](/matthew/21-45 "Matthew 21:45 - Leaders Understand the Parable")), making Jesus' pronouncement in [verse 43](/matthew/21-43 "Matthew 21:43 - The Kingdom Taken and Given") a direct and unavoidable indictment.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Jesus' audience, the chief priests and elders, represented the religious and political establishment of first-century Judaism under Roman occupation. They held significant power, interpreting the Law, administering the Temple, and guiding the spiritual life of the nation. Their authority was deeply intertwined with their understanding of Israel's unique covenant relationship with God. The "kingdom of God" was a central concept, often understood by many Jews in a nationalistic, political sense—a future earthly reign that would overthrow Roman rule and restore Israel's glory. Jesus' teaching, however, consistently redefined the kingdom as a spiritual reality, present in His person and work, and demanding repentance and faith ([Matthew 4:17](/matthew/4-17 "Matthew 4:17 - Repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at Hand")). The Temple, the center of Jewish worship and national identity, was also a point of contention, as Jesus had recently cleansed it ([Matthew 21:12-13](/matthew/21-12-13 "Matthew 21:12-13 - Jesus Cleanses the Temple")), further challenging the leaders' authority and practices.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Matthew's Gospel and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Judgment and Accountability**, demonstrating that spiritual privilege comes with responsibility, and persistent rejection of God's messengers—especially His Son—leads to severe consequences. Secondly, it highlights the **Transfer of Authority and Stewardship** from the unfaithful leaders of Israel to a new, inclusive community. This foreshadows the shift from a nationalistic, ethnically defined covenant to a spiritual, global one, a theme foundational to the early church's understanding of its mission ([Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - The Great Commission")). Thirdly, the emphasis on "bringing forth the fruits thereof" reinforces the theme of **True Discipleship and Fruitfulness**. It clarifies that mere religious affiliation or lineage is insufficient; genuine faith must manifest in righteous living and obedience, a concept echoed throughout Jesus' teachings, such as the [Parable of the Sower](/matthew/13-1-23 "Matthew 13:1-23 - Parable of the Sower") and the [Sermon on the Mount](/matthew/5-7 "The Sermon on the Mount"), where bearing good fruit is the mark of a true follower ([Matthew 7:16-20](/matthew/7-16-20 "Matthew 7:16-20 - You Will Recognize Them By Their Fruits")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **taken (Greek, _aírō'_):** This verb signifies "to lift up, to take up or away." In this context, it denotes a definitive removal or cessation. It's not merely a passive withdrawal but an active, authoritative act of God to dispossess the current stewards of the kingdom. The implication is a complete and irreversible transfer of privilege and responsibility.
* **given (Greek, _dídōmi'_):** Meaning "to give, bestow, grant," this word highlights the intentional and sovereign act of God in transferring the kingdom. It implies a deliberate impartation of authority and stewardship to a new recipient, emphasizing divine initiative and purpose in the establishment of the new spiritual order.
* **nation (Greek, _éthnos'_):** While often referring to an ethnic group or Gentile nation, in this specific context, _éthnos_ carries a broader, more inclusive meaning. It refers not to a specific ethnicity but to a collective body, a people, or a community that will succeed the unfaithful Jewish leadership. This "nation" is defined by its spiritual fruitfulness rather than its lineage, signifying the multi-ethnic, spiritual Israel—the Church.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Therefore say I unto you,"**: Jesus introduces His declaration with a solemn and authoritative tone, directly addressing the chief priests and elders. The "therefore" links this statement as a direct consequence and interpretation of the preceding Parable of the Wicked Tenants, leaving no ambiguity about its target or significance.
* **"The kingdom of God shall be taken from you,"**: This is the core pronouncement of judgment. "The kingdom of God" refers to God's sovereign rule and saving activity, both present and future. "Taken from you" signifies the removal of the unique spiritual privileges, stewardship, and leadership roles that had been entrusted to the Jewish religious establishment. Their failure to recognize and receive God's Son, and their rejection of His authority, rendered them unfit to continue as the primary stewards of God's redemptive plan.
* **"and given to a nation"**: This clause announces the transfer of the kingdom's stewardship. The recipient is "a nation," which, as discussed in the Key Word Analysis, refers not to a specific ethnic group but to a new spiritual community. This new "nation" would be comprised of those, both Jew and Gentile, who would genuinely accept Jesus as Messiah and Lord.
* **"bringing forth the fruits thereof."**: This crucial qualifying phrase defines the character of the new "nation." The transfer of the kingdom is conditional upon "fruitfulness." These "fruits" are not literal agricultural products but spiritual produce—righteous deeds, obedience, faith, love, and the virtues of the Holy Spirit (e.g., [Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - The Fruit of the Spirit")). This emphasizes that true participation in God's kingdom requires a life transformed by God's will and actively demonstrating His character.

#### Literary Devices
Jesus employs several potent literary devices in [Matthew 21:43](/matthew/21-43 "Matthew 21:43 - The Kingdom Taken and Given"). The entire statement functions as a **Prophecy**, foretelling a significant shift in God's redemptive plan and the recipients of His covenant blessings. It is also a direct **Application** of the preceding **Allegory** (the Parable of the Wicked Tenants), where the vineyard, owner, servants, and son all represent specific entities in salvation history, making the meaning of the "taken" and "given" explicit. The phrase "bringing forth the fruits thereof" uses **Metaphor**, where "fruits" symbolize the spiritual outcomes, righteous actions, and transformed lives expected from those who truly belong to God's kingdom, contrasting with the barrenness of the unfaithful leaders. The declaration itself is a form of **Divine Pronouncement**, carrying the weight of God's sovereign will and judgment, delivered through the authoritative voice of Jesus.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
[Matthew 21:43](/matthew/21-43 "Matthew 21:43 - The Kingdom Taken and Given") marks a pivotal moment in salvation history, signaling a profound shift in the administration of God's redemptive program. It underscores the principle that God's covenant promises are not automatically inherited but are contingent upon faithful response and fruitfulness. The "kingdom of God" is not merely a static entity but a dynamic realm of God's active rule, requiring active participation and obedience from its subjects. The transfer of the kingdom from the unfaithful Jewish leadership to a "nation bringing forth the fruits thereof" foreshadows the inclusion of Gentiles into the covenant community and the formation of the Church as the new spiritual Israel, a body defined by faith in Christ and the production of spiritual fruit, rather than by ethnic lineage. This divine reordering highlights God's justice, His unwavering purpose, and His readiness to extend His grace to all who respond in faith, regardless of their background.

* [Romans 9:6-8](/romans/9-6-8 "Romans 9:6-8 - Not All Israel Is Israel")
* [1 Peter 2:9-10](/1_peter/2-9-10 "1 Peter 2:9-10 - A Chosen Race, a Holy Nation")
* [John 15:1-8](/john/15-1-8 "John 15:1-8 - The True Vine and the Branches")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[Matthew 21:43](/matthew/21-43 "Matthew 21:43 - The Kingdom Taken and Given") serves as a timeless warning and a profound encouragement for believers today. It reminds us that spiritual privilege, whether individual or corporate, is always accompanied by responsibility. Just as the Jewish leaders were judged for their spiritual barrenness and rejection of Christ, so too are we called to examine our lives for genuine fruitfulness. Our faith is not merely intellectual assent or outward religious observance but a dynamic, transformative relationship with God that should manifest in tangible ways—in our character, our actions, and our impact on the world. This verse challenges any notion of spiritual complacency or entitlement, emphasizing that true belonging in God's kingdom is evidenced by a life that actively produces the "fruits" of righteousness, love, and obedience. It also celebrates God's expansive grace, demonstrating His readiness to embrace all who respond to Him in faith, forming them into a new, vibrant community that truly reflects His glory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might I, or my community, be tempted to rely on past spiritual privileges rather than present fruitfulness?**
* **What "fruits" (character, actions, impact) does God expect from my life as a follower of Christ, and how am I actively cultivating them?**
* **How does this verse challenge my understanding of God's impartiality and His desire to include all who respond in faith, regardless of background?**

### FAQ

**What does "the kingdom of God shall be taken from you" mean?**

Answer: This phrase signifies a profound spiritual and administrative shift. It means that the unique stewardship, spiritual authority, and primary role in God's redemptive plan, which had been entrusted to the Jewish religious leadership and, by extension, the nation of Israel, would be removed from them due to their persistent rejection of Jesus as the Messiah. It's a declaration of divine judgment, indicating that their privileged position as the primary agents of God's kingdom on earth was forfeited. This does not mean God abandoned His promises to Israel as a whole, but rather that the *administration* of the kingdom would transition to a new body.

**Who is the "nation bringing forth the fruits thereof"?**

Answer: The "nation" (Greek: _éthnos_) here does not refer to another specific ethnic or geopolitical nation. Instead, it refers to a new spiritual community, the Church, comprised of all people—both Jews and Gentiles—who genuinely believe in Jesus Christ and demonstrate their faith through righteous living and obedience. This "nation" is defined by its spiritual fruitfulness, meaning it produces the "fruits" of the Spirit (e.g., love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control, as listed in [Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - The Fruit of the Spirit")) and lives in accordance with God's will. This concept is further developed in the New Testament, particularly by Paul, regarding the inclusion of Gentiles into God's family ([Ephesians 2:11-22](/ephesians/2-11-22 "Ephesians 2:11-22 - Gentiles and Jews Reconciled in Christ")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[Matthew 21:43](/matthew/21-43 "Matthew 21:43 - The Kingdom Taken and Given") finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is the very embodiment and inaugurator of the kingdom of God. The "taking away" of the kingdom from the unfaithful Jewish leadership is directly linked to their rejection of Christ, God's Son, as depicted in the Parable of the Wicked Tenants. Jesus, as the rejected cornerstone ([Matthew 21:42](/matthew/21-42 "Matthew 21:42 - The Stone the Builders Rejected")), becomes the foundation of a new spiritual house, the Church ([1 Peter 2:4-8](/1_peter/2-4-8 "1 Peter 2:4-8 - Living Stones and the Cornerstone")). This "nation bringing forth the fruits thereof" is the body of Christ, established through His atoning death and resurrection, and empowered by His Spirit. Through His sacrifice, Jesus opened the way for all, both Jew and Gentile, to enter this kingdom, not by ethnic lineage, but by faith in Him. He is the true Vine, and believers are the branches who, by abiding in Him, produce the abundant fruit that the Father desires ([John 15:1-8](/john/15-1-8 "John 15:1-8 - The True Vine")). Thus, the transfer of the kingdom is not merely a punitive act but a redemptive one, culminating in the establishment of a new covenant community centered entirely on Christ, the King of this new, fruitful "nation" ([Colossians 1:13-14](/colossians/1-13-14 "Colossians 1:13-14 - Delivered from Darkness into His Kingdom")).

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

Matthew 21:41

They say unto him, He will miserably destroy those wicked men, and will let out [his] vineyard unto other husbandmen, which shall render him the fruits in their seasons.

Matthew 8:11

And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven.

Matthew 8:12

But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

1 Peter 2:9

But ye [are] a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:

Luke 17:20

¶ And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation:

Luke 17:21

Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.

John 3:3

Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.