Matthew 24:9

KJV

Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then {G5119} shall they deliver {G3860} you {G5209} up {G3860} to {G1519} be afflicted {G2347}, and {G2532} shall kill {G615} you {G5209}: and {G2532} ye shall be {G2071} hated {G3404} of {G5259} all {G3956} nations {G1484} for {G1223} my {G3450} name's sake {G3686}.

Complete Jewish Bible

At that time you will be arrested and handed over to be punished and put to death, and all peoples will hate you because of me.

Berean Standard Bible

Then they will deliver you over to be persecuted and killed, and you will be hated by all nations because of My name.

American Standard Version

Then shall they deliver you up unto tribulation, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all the nations for my name’s sake.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 24:9 stands as a stark prophetic warning from Jesus to His disciples, detailing the severe persecution, affliction, and even martyrdom they and future generations of believers would endure. This verse underscores the universal hatred the world would direct toward followers of Christ, not for political or social reasons, but solely "for my name's sake," emphasizing that allegiance to Jesus is the fundamental cause of this widespread opposition. It is a crucial part of the Olivet Discourse, preparing believers for the trials that would precede Christ's return and the consummation of the age.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Matthew 24:9 is embedded within Jesus' extensive eschatological discourse, often called the "Olivet Discourse," delivered on the Mount of Olives in response to His disciples' questions concerning the destruction of the Temple and the signs of His coming and the end of the age ([Matthew 24:3](/matthew/24-3 "Matthew 24:3 - Disciples' Questions")). Prior to this verse, Jesus describes general signs of the end, such as wars, famines, earthquakes, and pestilences, referring to them as "the beginning of sorrows" ([Matthew 24:7-8](/matthew/24-7-8 "Matthew 24:7-8 - Beginning of Sorrows")). With verse 9, the focus shifts dramatically from broad global calamities to the specific, direct suffering that will be inflicted upon *His followers*. This transition signifies that while the world experiences general distress, believers will face a unique, targeted persecution precisely because of their identification with Christ, marking a distinct phase in the unfolding of end-time events.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The early followers of Jesus, primarily Jewish, were initially seen as a sect within Judaism. However, as the Christian movement grew and distinguished itself, it increasingly faced hostility from both Jewish authorities and the Roman Empire. Roman authorities viewed Christians with suspicion, often accusing them of atheism (for refusing to worship Roman gods and emperors) and various social evils. This led to sporadic but intense persecutions, exemplified by events under Emperor Nero (c. 64 AD) and later under Domitian. The phrase "all nations" would have resonated with the Jewish understanding of the "Gentiles" (non-Jewish peoples), indicating a widespread, global antagonism that transcended specific cultural or political boundaries. The disciples, living under Roman rule and within a Jewish society that would soon reject Jesus en masse, were acutely aware of the potential for religious and political oppression, making Jesus' warning particularly poignant and relevant to their immediate future.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes within Matthew's Gospel and biblical theology. Firstly, it powerfully establishes the **Cost of Discipleship**, making it clear that following Jesus is not a path devoid of suffering but often entails profound sacrifice, even martyrdom, for the sake of one's faith. This theme is echoed elsewhere in Jesus' teachings, such as the call to [take up one's cross](/luke/14-27 "Luke 14:27 - Taking Up One's Cross"). Secondly, it highlights the **Universal Hostility Towards Christ and His Kingdom**, revealing that the world system is fundamentally opposed to God's reign and those who represent it. This opposition is not accidental but a direct consequence of the spiritual warfare between light and darkness. Thirdly, the phrase "for my name's sake" underscores the **Identity and Authority of Christ** as the ultimate reason for persecution, emphasizing that suffering for Christ is a direct affirmation of His Lordship and a participation in His own suffering ([John 15:20](/john/15-20 "John 15:20 - Servant Not Greater Than Master")). Finally, the prophecy serves as an **Eschatological Sign**, indicating that increasing persecution of believers is a characteristic marker of the period leading up to Christ's glorious return, calling for endurance and faithfulness until the end ([Revelation 2:10](/revelation/2-10 "Revelation 2:10 - Faithful Unto Death")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **afflicted (Greek, _thlîpsis'_):** From G2347, meaning "pressure (literally or figuratively)." It denotes severe anguish, distress, oppression, or tribulation. This word implies not just physical suffering but also emotional and spiritual pressure, encompassing the full range of hardships faced by believers. It is a term frequently used in the New Testament to describe the trials and persecutions endured by God's people.
* **hated (Greek, _miséō'_):** From G3404, meaning "to detest (especially to persecute); by extension, to love less." This word conveys a deep-seated, active animosity, not mere dislike or indifference. It points to an intense, often irrational, opposition that seeks to harm or destroy, reflecting the profound spiritual antagonism the world holds against Christ and His followers.
* **name's sake (Greek, _ónoma'_):** From G3686, meaning a "name" (literally or figuratively), encompassing authority and character. When used in the phrase "for my name's sake," it signifies the entire person, authority, reputation, and teachings of Jesus Christ. Persecution "for His name's sake" means suffering precisely because of one's identification with Christ, allegiance to His Lordship, and proclamation of His Gospel.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted":** The temporal adverb "Then" (G5119, _tóte_) indicates a specific point in the sequence of end-time events, following the general calamities. "They" refers to the various authorities and hostile elements in the world. "Deliver you up" (G3860, _paradídōmi_) suggests betrayal, surrender, or handing over, often to authorities for judgment or punishment, as Jesus himself was delivered up. "To be afflicted" (G1519, _eis_ G2347, _thlîpsis_) prophesies that believers will be subjected to intense pressure, tribulation, and suffering.
* **"and shall kill you":** This clause (G2532, _kaí_ G615, _apokteínō_ G5209, _hymâs_) is a direct and unambiguous prophecy of martyrdom. It indicates that the persecution will escalate to the ultimate physical sacrifice for many believers, a reality borne out throughout church history.
* **"and ye shall be hated of all nations":** This expands the scope of persecution to a global scale. "Hated" (G3404, _miséō_) emphasizes the profound animosity. "Of all nations" (G5259, _hypó_ G3956, _pâs_ G1484, _éthnos_) signifies that this hatred will be widespread, originating from various ethnic, cultural, and political groups across the world, demonstrating a universal opposition to the Christian faith.
* **"for my name's sake":** This crucial phrase (G1223, _diá_ G3450, _moû_ G3686, _ónoma_) reveals the fundamental reason for the persecution. It is not for political rebellion or social deviance, but solely because of their association with, and allegiance to, Jesus Christ Himself. Bearing His name and proclaiming His truth provokes this hatred, making the suffering a direct attack on Christ through His followers.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew 24:9 employs several powerful literary devices. The primary device is **Prophecy**, as Jesus directly foretells future events concerning His disciples' suffering. This serves not only as a warning but also as a means of validating His divine foresight and preparing His followers for what is to come. **Hyperbole** or **Generalization** can be seen in the phrase "all nations," which, while indicating widespread hatred, may not imply every single individual or nation will actively persecute, but rather that the opposition will be pervasive and globally recognized. **Foreshadowing** is evident as the verse anticipates the intense persecutions faced by the early church (e.g., Stephen's martyrdom) and throughout history. Finally, **Metonymy** is present in the phrase "for my name's sake," where "name" stands in for Jesus' entire person, authority, and message. This emphasizes that the persecution is not arbitrary but directly tied to the identity and mission of Christ.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 24:9 profoundly shapes our understanding of Christian existence in a fallen world. It reveals that suffering for righteousness is not an anomaly but an expected and often necessary part of the believer's journey, directly linking our experience to that of Christ Himself. This persecution, far from indicating God's abandonment, serves as a divine sign, a refining fire for faith, and a powerful witness to the world of the truth and transformative power of the Gospel. It underscores the spiritual warfare inherent in the kingdom of God's advance, where the world's hatred for Christ is manifested through its antagonism toward His followers. Ultimately, this verse calls believers to a sober recognition of the cost of discipleship, an unwavering commitment to Christ, and a reliance on God's sovereign plan, knowing that He uses even suffering to accomplish His purposes and bring about His ultimate victory.

* [John 15:18-20](/john/15-18-20 "John 15:18-20 - The World's Hatred of Believers")
* [Acts 7:54-60](/acts/7-54-60 "Acts 7:54-60 - Stephen's Martyrdom and Forgiveness")
* [1 Peter 4:12-16](/1_peter/4-12-16 "1 Peter 4:12-16 - Suffering as a Christian")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 24:9 serves as a foundational text for understanding the nature of Christian discipleship in a world often hostile to the Gospel. It calls believers to a profound sense of spiritual readiness, not to fear or despair, but to a sober recognition that suffering for Christ is a predicted and often unavoidable aspect of following Him. This passage encourages us to examine the depth of our commitment, asking if our faith is robust enough to endure societal rejection, affliction, or even the threat of death for the sake of Christ's name. It reminds us that our identity in Christ is the very reason for the world's animosity, transforming potential persecution from a sign of failure into a mark of authentic allegiance. By embracing this truth, believers can cultivate resilience, discernment, and an unwavering focus on the eternal reward, understanding that our temporary suffering is part of a larger divine narrative that culminates in Christ's ultimate triumph.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding Matthew 24:9 prepare me emotionally and spiritually for potential adversity or opposition in my faith journey today?**
* **In what subtle or overt ways might I already be experiencing "hatred" or opposition for Christ's name's sake in my own context?**
* **What steps can I take to deepen my commitment to Christ, ensuring that my faith is resilient enough to endure hardship and remain faithful even unto death?**

### FAQ

**Is Matthew 24:9 only about the early church or does it apply to believers today?**

Answer: While Matthew 24:9 certainly found immediate and profound fulfillment in the persecution of the early church, as documented in the Book of Acts and early church history, its prophetic scope extends far beyond that initial period. Jesus' words describe an ongoing reality that has characterized the experience of believers throughout history and will continue until His return. The phrase "all nations" signifies a universal and enduring opposition to Christ and His followers, meaning that believers in every generation and every part of the world may face affliction, hatred, and even death "for my name's sake." Therefore, this verse serves as a timeless warning and a call to readiness for all who bear the name of Christ, reminding us that [persecution is an expected part of the Christian life](/john/15-20 "John 15:20 - The World Will Hate You").

**What does "hated of all nations" mean, considering not all nations actively persecute Christians?**

Answer: The phrase "hated of all nations" (G3956, _pâs_ G1484, _éthnos_) should be understood not as a literal, exhaustive statement that every single person in every single nation will harbor active hatred for Christians, but rather as a comprehensive expression of the pervasive and universal nature of the world's spiritual antagonism towards Christ and His kingdom. It signifies that the spirit of the age, the prevailing values and systems of the world, are fundamentally at odds with the values and truth of the Gospel. This opposition can manifest in various forms, from overt physical persecution and martyrdom in some regions to more subtle forms of social ostracism, discrimination, ridicule, or legal restrictions in others. It implies that wherever the Gospel is faithfully proclaimed and lived out, it will inevitably confront and challenge the prevailing worldview, leading to a reaction of hostility from those who reject Christ's Lordship.

**How can believers find strength and hope when facing such severe persecution?**

Answer: Believers can find profound strength and hope in the face of persecution by anchoring themselves in several core biblical truths. Firstly, Jesus Himself foretold this suffering, indicating it is part of God's sovereign plan and not a sign of His absence or disfavor. Secondly, Christ Himself endured the ultimate persecution and hatred, setting an example of faithfulness unto death and demonstrating that victory is found through suffering ([1 Peter 2:21-23](/1_peter/2-21-23 "1 Peter 2:21-23 - Christ's Example of Suffering")). Thirdly, the promise of eternal reward and vindication provides immense encouragement; those who suffer for Christ's name will ultimately reign with Him ([Revelation 2:10](/revelation/2-10 "Revelation 2:10 - Faithful Unto Death")). Finally, the Holy Spirit empowers believers to endure, granting courage and peace amidst trials, and the fellowship of other believers provides vital support and encouragement, reminding us that we are not alone in our suffering.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 24:9 finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Himself. While the verse prophesies the persecution of His followers, it is first and foremost a reflection of the hatred and affliction that Christ endured. Jesus was [delivered up](/john/19-16 "John 19:16 - Jesus Delivered Up") by His own people and ultimately by the Roman authorities, suffering immense affliction and being killed on a cross. He was [hated without cause](/john/15-25 "John 15:25 - Hated Without Cause") by the world, precisely "for His name's sake" – for claiming to be the Son of God and the Messiah. The suffering of believers, therefore, is a profound participation in the suffering of Christ ([Colossians 1:24](/colossians/1-24 "Colossians 1:24 - Sharing in Christ's Sufferings")), a bearing of His reproach, and a testimony to His truth. Yet, just as Christ's death led to His glorious resurrection and triumph over sin and death, so too the persecution of His followers ultimately serves to advance His kingdom and demonstrate His power. The "name's sake" for which believers suffer is the very name [above every name](/philippians/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - The Exalted Name of Jesus"), to which every knee will one day bow, ensuring that their ultimate vindication and reward are secured by His victory.

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

John 16:2

They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service.

John 15:19

If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.

John 15:20

Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also.

Luke 21:16

And ye shall be betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends; and [some] of you shall they cause to be put to death.

Luke 21:17

And ye shall be hated of all [men] for my name's sake.

Revelation 2:10

Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast [some] of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.

Luke 21:12

But before all these, they shall lay their hands on you, and persecute [you], delivering [you] up to the synagogues, and into prisons, being brought before kings and rulers for my name's sake.