Matthew 13:17

For verily I say unto you, That many prophets and righteous men have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them.

Matthew 13:17 (KJV)

Context

This verse is part of the Parable of the Sower, where Jesus explains why he teaches in parables. In the preceding verses, he quotes Isaiah 6:9-10 to show that some hearts have grown calloused and cannot understand. In contrast, Jesus tells his disciples they are blessed because they have been granted understanding of the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven.

The phrase “Verily I say unto you” emphasizes the truth and certainty of Jesus’ statement. He reveals that the disciples are experiencing something that even the prophets and righteous individuals of the past desired but did not have the opportunity to witness. The prophets longed to see the fulfillment of God’s promises and the coming of the Messiah, while righteous individuals desired to hear the teachings of Jesus firsthand.

Meaning

Jesus’ statement acknowledges the disciples’ privileged position as eyewitnesses to his ministry and teachings. They have the unique opportunity to observe the miracles, listen to his teachings, and directly interact with the Son of God. The Greek word “amen” behind “verily” signals the importance and certainty of what Jesus declares. He is not merely making an observation but emphasizing the unique privilege of his disciples, who are witnessing the fulfillment of what Old Testament prophets and righteous people longed to see and hear—the coming of the Messiah and the revelation of the kingdom of heaven.

This verse also highlights the continuity and fulfillment of God’s plan throughout history. The prophets and righteous men of the Old Testament era faithfully awaited the arrival of the Messiah, but their longing was not immediately fulfilled. The disciples, on the other hand, have the honor of experiencing the fulfillment of these prophecies and witnessing the unfolding of God’s redemptive plan. A parallel saying appears in Luke 10:24, where Jesus mentions that prophets and kings desired to see and hear what the disciples now experience, underscoring that even the powerful and influential of the Old Testament era did not have this privilege.

Biblical connections

The verse connects directly to the immediate context of Matthew 13. In verses 13-15, Jesus quotes Isaiah 6:9-10, explaining that the crowds do not perceive or understand because their hearts have grown dull. In contrast, the disciples are blessed because they see and hear with understanding. This contrast emphasizes that spiritual perception is a gift from God, granted to those who are receptive to his word.

Application

For the Christian reader, this verse is a call to recognize the immense privilege of having the complete revelation of God in Christ and the Scriptures. We live on this side of the cross and resurrection, with the full counsel of God’s Word. The prophets and righteous men of old longed for the Messiah’s coming; we have the record of his life, death, and resurrection. This should produce gratitude and a deepened appreciation for the gospel. It also challenges us to be faithful stewards of the truth we have received, not taking for granted the light we have been given.

Practically, this verse encourages believers to approach Scripture with expectancy and humility, asking God to open our eyes and ears to understand his truth. It also reminds us that understanding the kingdom is not merely intellectual but involves a heart that is soft and receptive to God’s word, unlike the hardened hearts described earlier in the chapter.

Reflection

Jesus’ words invite us to consider how we respond to the revelation we have received. The disciples saw and heard the Messiah in person; we possess the complete written testimony of his work. This verse calls us to examine whether we truly value the Scriptures and the gospel, or whether we have grown complacent. It also reassures us that God’s plan has unfolded faithfully through history, and we are privileged to live in the light of its fulfillment.