Matthew 4:17

KJV

From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

KJV (with Strong's)

From {G575} that time {G5119} Jesus {G2424} began {G756} to preach {G2784}, and {G2532} to say {G3004}, Repent {G3340}: for {G1063} the kingdom {G932} of heaven {G3772} is at hand {G1448}.

Complete Jewish Bible

From that time on, Yeshua began proclaiming, "Turn from your sins to God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near!"

Berean Standard Bible

From that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.”

American Standard Version

From that time began Jesus to preach, and to say, Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 4:17 marks the pivotal inauguration of Jesus' public ministry in Galilee, following His temptation and John the Baptist's arrest. From this moment, Jesus began to proclaim a foundational and urgent message that would define His entire earthly mission: a direct call for humanity to "Repent," because "the kingdom of heaven is at hand." This declaration signaled the dawn of a new era, announcing that God's long-anticipated sovereign rule was no longer a distant hope but an immediate, accessible reality breaking into human history through Jesus Himself.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within Matthew's narrative, signaling a significant transition. It immediately follows Jesus' triumphant resistance to [Satan's temptations in the wilderness](/matthew/4-1-11 "Matthew 4:1-11 - Temptation of Jesus"), demonstrating His perfect obedience and readiness for ministry. The subsequent news of [John the Baptist's imprisonment](/matthew/4-12 "Matthew 4:12 - John the Baptist Imprisoned") serves as a clear demarcation, indicating the conclusion of John's preparatory ministry and the commencement of Jesus' active public phase. Jesus then withdraws to Galilee, specifically settling in Capernaum by the Sea of Galilee, a strategic location that fulfills the ancient prophecy from [Isaiah 9:1-2](/isaiah/9-1-2 "Isaiah 9:1-2 - Prophecy of Light in Galilee"), highlighting that "the people dwelling in darkness have seen a great light" ([Matthew 4:14-16](/matthew/4-14-16 "Matthew 4:14-16 - Fulfillment of Isaiah's Prophecy")). This geographical shift from Judea to Galilee of the Gentiles underscores the universal scope of His message, which begins with the profound declaration of repentance and the kingdom's arrival.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Jesus' ministry begins in Galilee, a region often looked down upon by the Judean religious elite due to its mixed population and perceived spiritual laxity. Yet, it was a vibrant, populous area, making it an ideal launching point for a public movement. The Jewish people of this era lived under Roman occupation, longing for the promised Messiah who would deliver them and establish God's kingdom. Their understanding of the "kingdom" was often nationalistic and political, expecting a visible, earthly reign that would overthrow Roman rule. Jesus' message, while affirming the kingdom's arrival, subtly redefines it, emphasizing a spiritual and moral transformation (repentance) as a prerequisite for entry, challenging the prevailing political expectations. The phrase "kingdom of heaven" is Matthew's characteristic way of referring to "the kingdom of God," a reverential circumlocution common in Jewish thought to avoid direct utterance of God's name, reflecting the cultural piety of the time.

* **Key Themes:** Matthew 4:17 encapsulates several foundational themes that permeate Jesus' ministry throughout the Gospels. Firstly, the call to **Repentance** (Greek: _metanoéō_) is paramount, signifying not merely sorrow for sin but a radical change of mind, heart, and direction, turning away from self and sin toward God. This theme echoes the message of [John the Baptist](/matthew/3-2 "Matthew 3:2 - John the Baptist's Preaching"), establishing continuity while highlighting Jesus' unique authority. Secondly, the **Kingdom of Heaven** (or Kingdom of God) is the central subject of Jesus' preaching. This refers to God's dynamic, sovereign rule and reign, which is both a present spiritual reality breaking into the world through Jesus and a future, consummated reality. It is not primarily a geographical territory but the sphere where God's will is perfectly done. Thirdly, the declaration that the kingdom "is at hand" (Greek: _engízō_) conveys a profound sense of **Imminence and Accessibility**. It signifies that the long-awaited reign of God, prophesied throughout the Old Testament, has drawn near and is now breaking into human history through the person and work of Jesus Christ, making it available for entry. Finally, this verse marks the **Inauguration of Jesus' Public Ministry**, setting the stage for all His subsequent teachings, miracles, and the formation of His church, as seen in the broader narrative of [Matthew's Gospel](/matthew/5 "Matthew 5 - The Sermon on the Mount").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Repent (Greek, _metanoéō'_):** Derived from _metá_ (after, with) and _noiéō_ (to perceive, to think), this word literally means "to change one's mind" or "to think differently afterwards." In the biblical context, especially as used by Jesus and John the Baptist, it signifies far more than intellectual assent or mere regret. It denotes a fundamental, decisive reorientation of one's entire being – a moral and spiritual transformation that involves turning away from sin and self-reliance and turning towards God in obedient faith. It implies a complete change of direction in one's life, leading to corresponding changes in attitude and behavior.
* **Kingdom (Greek, _basileía'_):** This term, from _basileús_ (king), primarily denotes "royalty," "rule," or "reign." Secondarily, it can refer to the "realm" over which a king rules. In the phrase "kingdom of heaven," it refers to God's active, sovereign rule and kingly dominion, rather than merely a geographical territory. It encompasses God's present reign in the hearts of believers and His future, ultimate reign over all creation. Matthew's use of "heaven" (ouranós) instead of "God" is a common Jewish reverence, avoiding direct mention of the divine name.
* **Is at hand (Greek, _engízō'_):** From _engýs_ (near), this verb means "to make near" or "to approach." Its perfect tense form, as used here, indicates a state of having drawn near and now being present. It conveys a sense of arrival and accessibility, not merely an approaching future event. The kingdom is not just coming; it has arrived in the person and ministry of Jesus Christ, making its benefits and demands immediately available to those who respond.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"From that time Jesus began to preach,"**: This clause marks a decisive turning point in Jesus' life and the Gospel narrative. "From that time" (G5119, _tóte_) emphasizes the immediate commencement of His public ministry following the events of His temptation and John's imprisonment. The word "began" (G756, _árchomai_) indicates the initiation of a new phase, while "to preach" (G2784, _kērýssō_) signifies His role as a herald, publicly proclaiming a message with divine authority, much like a town crier announcing a royal decree. This was not a private teaching but a public declaration to all who would listen.
* **"and to say, 'Repent:'"**: This introduces the core content of Jesus' inaugural message. The conjunction "and" (G2532, _kaí_) connects His preaching with the specific command. The imperative "Repent" (G3340, _metanoéō_) is a direct, urgent, and non-negotiable call to a radical transformation of mind, heart, and life. It is the foundational prerequisite for entering into the new reality Jesus is announcing. This command, echoing John the Baptist's message, is now delivered with the ultimate authority of the King Himself.
* **"for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."**: This clause provides the compelling reason (G1063, _gár_) for the urgent call to repentance. The "kingdom of heaven" (G932, _basileía_ G3772, _ouranós_) refers to God's active, sovereign rule. The crucial phrase "is at hand" (G1448, _engízō_) signifies that this divine rule has drawn near, has arrived, and is now accessible. It is not merely a future hope but a present reality that has broken into human history through Jesus. This declaration imbues the call to repentance with immense significance, as it is the appropriate response to the immediate presence of God's reign.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew 4:17 is rich in literary significance, primarily employing **Proclamation** and **Urgency**. Jesus' "preaching" (kērýssō) implies a public, authoritative declaration, much like a herald announcing a royal decree. This is not a suggestion but a divine imperative. The direct command "Repent!" carries an inherent **Urgency**, demanding an immediate and decisive response from the audience. This urgency is further amplified by the accompanying reason: "for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." The causal conjunction "for" (gár) links the command directly to the imminent arrival of God's reign, creating a powerful logical and theological imperative. The phrase "kingdom of heaven" itself functions as a **Metonymy**, where "heaven" stands for God, reflecting the Jewish reverence for the divine name. This concise verse, therefore, serves as a powerful, authoritative, and urgent **Summary Statement** of Jesus' entire mission.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 4:17 serves as the theological bedrock for understanding Jesus' entire ministry, establishing the core tenets of His message: the necessity of repentance and the reality of God's kingdom. It signifies that with Jesus' arrival, God's long-prophesied reign has definitively broken into human history, demanding a transformed response from humanity. This "kingdom" is not primarily a political or earthly domain, but God's active, dynamic rule over hearts and lives, bringing salvation, righteousness, and peace. The call to repentance underscores that entry into this kingdom is conditioned not on birthright or ritual, but on a radical change of allegiance and a turning towards God. This verse connects the Old Testament prophecies of a coming king and kingdom with their New Testament fulfillment in Jesus, revealing that the eschatological age has dawned.

* [Mark 1:15](/mark/1-15 "Mark 1:15 - Jesus' Proclamation in Mark")
* [Luke 17:20-21](/luke/17-20-21 "Luke 17:20-21 - The Kingdom of God Within You")
* [Acts 2:38](/acts/2-38 "Acts 2:38 - Peter's Call to Repentance")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 4:17 remains a timeless and profoundly relevant call to every generation. Jesus' inaugural message demands a personal, transformative response: "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." This isn't a one-time act of sorrow for past sins, but an ongoing posture of humility, a continuous reorientation of our lives towards God's will, and a turning away from anything that opposes His reign. Living in light of the kingdom's nearness means actively submitting to God's sovereign rule in every area of our lives – our thoughts, words, actions, relationships, and priorities. It calls us to embody the values of the kingdom: justice, mercy, humility, and love. The kingdom is both a present reality to be lived out and a future hope to be anticipated, compelling us to live with both urgency and joyful expectation, knowing that God's reign is accessible now through Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What specific areas of my life need a "change of mind" (repentance) to align more fully with God's kingdom values?**
* **How does the understanding that the "kingdom of heaven is at hand" impact my daily decisions and priorities?**
* **In what ways am I actively living under God's rule, and where do I still resist His sovereignty?**
* **How can I better embody and proclaim the reality of God's kingdom to those around me?**

### FAQ

**What does "the kingdom of heaven" mean, and why does Matthew use this phrase?**

Answer: "The kingdom of heaven" refers to God's active, sovereign rule and reign, rather than a physical territory. It is the sphere in which God's will is perfectly accomplished. Matthew, writing primarily to a Jewish audience, uses "kingdom of heaven" (G932, _basileía_ G3772, _ouranós_) as a respectful circumlocution for "kingdom of God," a common Jewish practice to avoid directly uttering the divine name out of reverence. This phrase emphasizes God's transcendent authority and heavenly origin, yet it is a kingdom that breaks into the earthly realm through Jesus. It is both a present reality (God's rule in hearts) and a future consummation (when God's rule is fully established over all creation). Jesus' teachings, particularly in the [Sermon on the Mount](/matthew/5 "Matthew 5 - The Sermon on the Mount"), elaborate extensively on the nature and demands of this kingdom.

**What is the difference between "repentance" and simply feeling sorry for one's sins?**

Answer: While feeling sorry for one's sins (remorse or regret) can be a component of repentance, biblical "repentance" (G3340, _metanoéō_) is a much deeper and more transformative concept. It means a fundamental "change of mind" that leads to a complete reorientation of one's life, a turning away from sin and self-centeredness, and a turning towards God in obedient faith. It involves a shift in one's core values, attitudes, and behaviors, resulting in a new direction for one's life. As seen in [Acts 26:20](/acts/26-20 "Acts 26:20 - Paul's Preaching of Repentance"), true repentance is demonstrated by "deeds consistent with repentance," meaning a visible change in how one lives. It's not just a feeling, but a decisive act of the will that impacts one's entire being and trajectory.

**What does it mean that the kingdom "is at hand"? Is it here now or still coming?**

Answer: The phrase "is at hand" (G1448, _engízō_) indicates that the kingdom has drawn near and is now present and accessible. It signifies that with the arrival of Jesus Christ, the long-awaited reign of God has definitively broken into human history. This concept is often described as "already and not yet." The kingdom is "already" present in the person and work of Jesus – His teachings, miracles, death, and resurrection inaugurated God's rule. Believers can experience its power and blessings now by submitting to Christ as King. However, it is "not yet" fully consummated; its full manifestation will occur at Christ's second coming, when all things are brought under His complete and visible dominion ([Revelation 11:15](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdom of the World Becomes God's")). Therefore, the kingdom is both a present spiritual reality and a future eschatological hope, demanding an immediate response while inviting ongoing anticipation.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 4:17 is profoundly Christ-centered, for Jesus Himself is the embodiment and inaugurator of the kingdom of heaven. His declaration, "Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand," is not merely a message about a coming reality, but an announcement that the King has arrived, and with Him, His kingdom. Jesus does not merely *preach* about the kingdom; He *brings* it. His very presence, His authoritative teaching, His miraculous deeds of healing and deliverance ([Matthew 4:23-24](/matthew/4-23-24 "Matthew 4:23-24 - Jesus Teaching and Healing")), and ultimately His death and resurrection, are all manifestations of God's sovereign rule breaking into a fallen world. The call to repentance is a call to turn to Him, the King, and to align one's life with His reign. Through His atoning sacrifice on the cross, Jesus conquered sin and death, establishing the spiritual reality of the kingdom and making entry possible for all who believe ([Colossians 1:13-14](/colossians/1-13-14 "Colossians 1:13-14 - Delivered from Darkness into His Kingdom")). His resurrection and ascension confirm His cosmic kingship ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philip/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Jesus Exalted as Lord")), and He now reigns from heaven, actively building His church, which is the present manifestation of His kingdom on earth ([Matthew 16:18-19](/matthew/16-18-19 "Matthew 16:18-19 - Peter's Confession and the Church")). Thus, Matthew 4:17 is not just an ancient historical proclamation, but a living invitation to enter into the present, transformative reign of Jesus Christ, the King of kings.

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 3:2

And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

Mark 1:14

¶ Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God,

Mark 1:15

And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.

Acts 2:38

Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Luke 5:32

I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.

Luke 24:47

And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.

Acts 17:30

And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: