Matthew 17:12

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.

Matthew 17:12 (KJV)

Context

This verse is part of the Transfiguration narrative, where Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a high mountain and is transfigured before them. Moses and Elijah appear and talk with Jesus. After witnessing this extraordinary event, the disciples ask Jesus about the role of Elijah in relation to the coming of the Messiah.

In Matthew 17:12, Jesus responds by stating that Elijah has already come. He refers to John the Baptist as the fulfillment of the prophecy concerning Elijah’s coming mentioned in Malachi 4:5-6. However, Jesus points out that the people did not recognize John as the prophesied Elijah, and they mistreated him, doing whatever they wanted to him. Jesus further explains that just as John the Baptist suffered, the Son of Man (referring to Himself) will also suffer at the hands of the people.

Meaning

The phrase “But I say unto you” is a distinctive way Jesus speaks when He corrects or contradicts the teachings of the scribes and Pharisees, as seen in Matthew 5:22. Here, Jesus corrects the disciples’ misunderstanding about Elijah’s coming. The people “knew him not“—they did not recognize John the Baptist as the promised Elijah, and they treated him according to their own desires, ultimately leading to his imprisonment and death. Jesus draws a parallel: just as John suffered at the hands of those who rejected him, so the Son of Man will also suffer at their hands.

This verse emphasizes the fulfillment of prophecy and the rejection and suffering that the prophets, including John the Baptist and Jesus, would experience. It also highlights the importance of recognizing the messengers of God and the consequences of disregarding their message.

Biblical connections

In Matthew 17:13, the disciples understand that Jesus spoke of John the Baptist. This confirms that Jesus’ words were clear to those who listened with faith. The verse underscores the continuity of God’s redemptive plan, the cost of discipleship, and the certainty of Christ’s suffering as part of His mission.

Application

This passage serves as a reminder to the disciples, and to us as readers, that the coming of the Messiah was foretold by the prophets, and that their words had to be fulfilled. It also underscores the willingness of Jesus to face suffering and persecution for the sake of fulfilling His divine mission.