Matthew 17:12 Meaning and Explanation
“But I say unto you, That Elias is come already, and they knew him not, but have done unto him whatsoever they listed. Likewise shall also the Son of man suffer of them.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Jesus reveals that the promised Elijah has already come and was mistreated, foreshadowing His own suffering.
What Does Matthew 17:12 Mean?
Jesus turns the promise to the present: the one who came in the spirit of Elijah has already appeared, yet went unrecognized and was treated as his enemies pleased. In the same breath He binds that rejection to His own coming suffering -- as the forerunner was scorned, so shall the Son of man be.
People can look straight at God's messenger and fail to know him, their eyes closed by hard expectation. The path of the forerunner foreshadows the path of the Lord: both are met with rejection. Yet Jesus walks it knowingly, for through that very suffering He will accomplish salvation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew 17:12
What does Matthew 17:12 mean?
Jesus reveals that the promised Elijah has already come and was mistreated, foreshadowing His own suffering.