What does Matthew 16:23 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 16:23 is a verse from the New Testament where Jesus reprimands Peter, one of His apostles.

In the preceding verses, Peter had responded negatively to Jesus’ prophecy about His own suffering and crucifixion.

Peter could not understand why Jesus would need to undergo suffering and attempted to dissuade Him from such a fate.

Reacting to Peter's human and, from His perspective, shortsighted view, Jesus addressed Peter as "Satan," a term denoting adversary or opponent.

This signifies that Peter, perhaps unknowingly, was speaking in a way that opposed the divine plan of redemption.

The term "savour," used here, means to "have regard for" or "to mind." Thus, Jesus was critiquing Peter's inclination towards human concerns over divine purposes.

Historical Context

This verse occurs in the Gospel of Matthew, which was written primarily for a Jewish audience, to present Jesus as the Messiah who fulfills the Hebrew prophecies.

The incident takes place after Jesus and His disciples had gone into the region of Caesarea Philippi.

The historical context is critical because it shows Jesus' ministry nearing an important turning point.

Here, He began to reveal more explicitly His impending sufferings, death, and resurrection to His close followers, giving them a glimpse of the divine salvation plan.

Theological Insights

There are several theological insights that can be gleaned from this verse.

Most importantly, this verse highlights a distinction between divine and human concerns.

From a Christian perspective, it exemplifies that God's ways are not always aligned with human expectations or reasoning. The identification of Peter with "Satan" has been interpreted as an allegory for any temptation that strays one away from God's purpose.

Theologically, it also reflects on the concept of divine necessity – that the crucifixion of Jesus was essential for salvation, something that the human mind (represented by Peter) might struggle to comprehend.

Practical Applications

In everyday life, Jesus' rebuke to Peter serves as a reminder to believers to focus on divine plans rather than human desires or reasoning.

It is an admonition to have faith in God's purpose, even when it goes against one's own understanding or personal wishes.

This verse may encourage individuals to trust in God during difficult situations that seem counterintuitive or challenging. It can also offer a perspective of vigilance against allowing one’s personal opinions or societal values to interfere with one's spiritual commitments and duties.

Cross-References

• Matthew 4:10: Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.
• Mark 8:33: But when he had turned about and looked on his disciples, he rebuked Peter, saying, Get thee behind me, Satan: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but the things that be of men.
• Romans 8:5: For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.

Language Study

In the original Greek, the phrase "Get thee behind me" (Ὕπαγε ὀπίσω μου) can be understood as a command for someone to follow rather than lead, implying that Peter should not attempt to guide Jesus but rather obediently follow His lead.

The term "Satan" (Σατανᾶ) translates directly to "adversary" and indicates opposition. The verb "savourest" or "mind" (φρονεῖς) refers to the mindset or inclinations one has.

"An offence unto me" (σκάνδαλόν) uses a word originally meaning a "trap" or "stumbling block," indicating that Peter's perspective was a hindrance to Jesus.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of a clash between divine will and human resistance is not unique to Christianity.

In many other religious traditions and ancient mythologies, there are stories of gods whose plans are contrary to human desires or understanding.

For example, in Greek mythology, Prometheus is punished by Zeus for disobeying the divine will by giving fire to humans.

In some interpretations of Hinduism, the god Krishna teaches that one must act according to divine wisdom (dharma) and not be guided by personal desires or aversion.

Scientific Perspectives

This verse does not directly intersect with scientific understandings in a concrete way; rather, it addresses issues of faith, human understanding, and the divine will.

However, some scientific approaches to cognition and psychology might illuminate why humans often struggle with abstract concepts like faith or divine purpose.

For example, cognitive dissonance theory could help explain the psychological discomfort one experiences when confronted with beliefs that contradict their expectations or desires.

Commentaries

Various Bible scholars and theologians offer interpretations of this verse, each adding depth to its understanding.

For instance, John Calvin comments on the severity of Jesus' rebuke, emphasizing the danger of human ambition obstructing God's work.

William Barclay notes the sharp contrast between the confession of faith by Peter in the preceding passage and his failure to grasp the necessity of suffering here.

Meanwhile, modern commentaries may focus on the psychological or social implications of Jesus' rebuke, pointing out the universal human tendency to resist uncomfortable truths or necessary hardships.