Matthew 20:31

And the multitude rebuked them, because they should hold their peace: but they cried the more, saying, Have mercy on us, O Lord, thou Son of David.

Matthew 20:31 (KJV)

Context

This verse is part of the Gospel of Matthew’s account of Jesus leaving Jericho with His disciples and a great multitude (Matthew 20:29). Two blind men sitting by the roadside hear that Jesus is passing by and begin to cry out to Him, addressing Him as the “Son of David” and asking for mercy (Matthew 20:30). In verse 31, the crowd rebukes them and tells them to be silent, but the blind men cry out even louder, repeating their plea: “Have mercy on us, O Lord, thou Son of David.”

Meaning

The Greek verb translated “rebuked” (ἐπετίμησεν) conveys a strong, authoritative command, and the word for “hold their peace” (σιωπήσωσιν) means to be silent. The crowd’s attempt to silence the blind men likely reflected a belief that they were unworthy or a desire to protect Jesus from bother. Yet the blind men’s response, “they cried the more” (μεῖζον ἔκραξαν), shows increased intensity and persistence. Their repeated cry for mercy is both a physical and spiritual plea, recognizing their desperate need for Jesus’ intervention.

The title “Son of David” is a Messianic title, acknowledging Jesus as the promised descendant of David and the Messiah. By using this title, the blind men demonstrated their belief in Jesus’ power and authority to heal. Their physical blindness serves as a metaphor for spiritual blindness, symbolizing our need for spiritual healing and salvation. Just as the blind men sought Jesus’ mercy, we should humbly approach Him, acknowledging our weaknesses and relying on His grace and compassion.

Biblical connections

The immediate context includes Jesus’ teaching on servanthood and His mission to give His life as a ransom for many (Matthew 20:27-28), which frames the Son of David as the suffering servant. The blind men’s persistence is a model of faith that refuses to be silenced by social pressure.

Application

The blind men’s persistence is an essential lesson for our faith journey. We should not be deterred by discouragement or opposition but continue to seek God with fervent hearts. Despite the rebuke from the multitude, the blind men did not allow themselves to be silenced. They were determined to reach Jesus, knowing that He alone had the power to restore their sight. Their persistence paid off, as Jesus stopped, called them, and asked what they wanted Him to do for them (Matthew 20:32-33). This account encourages us to overcome obstacles and societal pressures that may hinder our faith and pursuit of Christ. We must have the courage to stand firm in our convictions and press on, knowing that Jesus hears our cries and is attentive to our needs.

Reflection

Jesus welcomes such desperate faith. The crowd’s rebuke contrasts with Jesus’ later response, as He stops and calls the blind men. Their cry for mercy is a model of persistent prayer and recognition of Jesus as the merciful Messiah. When we face opposition or feel unworthy, we can cry out to Jesus with the same confidence, knowing that He is ready to extend mercy to those who come to Him with sincere hearts.