Matthew 23:39

Matthew 23:39 Meaning and Explanation

For I say unto you, Ye shall not see me henceforth, till ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.

King James Version (KJV)

Read this verse in context with translation switching:

Read Full Chapter →

Jesus closes with both farewell and hope: they will not see him again until they welcome him with the words of blessing.

What Does Matthew 23:39 Mean?

Jesus ends his temple discourse with words that look beyond the present rejection. They will not see him in the same way again until the day they greet him with the cry, 'Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord,' the very welcome sung at his entry into the city.

Though spoken after stern warnings, this final word holds a thread of promise. The door is not sealed forever; a day of glad recognition is held out. Jesus points to a future welcome, when hearts will bless rather than reject the One who comes in the Lord's name. The verse leaves the hearer with hope: the way back is to receive him, to say with joy the words of blessing, and to greet at last the Savior who came in love.

Matthew 23:39 in the Original Language

eulogeo (εὐλογέω), 'blessed' -- to speak well of, to praise; the root of our word eulogy, here a cry of glad welcome.

Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew 23:39

What does Matthew 23:39 mean?

Jesus closes with both farewell and hope: they will not see him again until they welcome him with the words of blessing.

Keep Studying Matthew 23

Read the whole chapter in KJV, ASV, or WEB, or go deeper with the chapter study guide and key themes.