What does Matthew 8:4 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 8:4 is a verse from the New Testament of the Christian Bible in which Jesus instructs a man whom he has just healed of leprosy on how to proceed.

In this passage, Jesus emphasizes the importance of the man not publicizing the miracle but rather following the requirements set forth in Jewish Law, as prescribed by Moses.

The instruction to "tell no man" suggests a degree of humility and a desire to avoid spectacle or unnecessary attention.

Instead, the healed man is to go directly to the priest, part of the process of being declared clean from leprosy, and to offer the prescribed gift as evident in Leviticus.

Moreover, these actions would serve as a "testimony unto them," likely meaning a testament to the priests or possibly to the Jewish people of Jesus' divine authority and adherence to the Law.

Historical Context

Matthew 8:4 is situated in the context of first-century Judea, where Jewish Law and traditions were of paramount importance.

According to these laws, particularly those outlined in Leviticus 13-14, a person healed of leprosy had to be examined by a priest and perform certain rites which included offering a sacrifice, to be officially declared clean and thus able to reintegrate into society.

The instruction to see the priest and the emphasis on the Mosaic Law indicates Jesus' respect for these legal processes and His recognition of the religious authorities of the time.

Theological Insights

From a Christian theological perspective, this verse can be viewed from multiple angles:

Obedience to the Law: Jesus demonstrates respect for the Jewish Law by instructing compliance with its stipulations, indicating that He did not come to abolish the Law but to fulfill it (Matthew 5:17).

Messianic Secrecy: The command to "tell no man" is often associated with what scholars term the "Messianic Secret." This concept is the notion that Jesus sought to keep His identity as the Messiah concealed to control the timing and manner of its revelation.

Testimony to the Priests: By performing this act, the healed man would provide evidence to the religious leaders of Jesus' divine power and His adherence to the Law, which could challenge their preconceptions of Him.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Matthew 8:4 can inspire several applications in daily life:

Discretion: Sometimes it may be wise to perform good deeds discreetly, without seeking recognition or praise from others.

Obedience: As a follower of faith, one should respect and adhere to religious and societal norms and regulations, provided they do not conflict with ethical principles.

Witness by Actions: Actions can serve as powerful testimonies of one's beliefs and values.

Thus, living in a way that aligns with one's faith can be an effective witness.

Cross-References

• Leviticus 14:2-4 , "This shall be the law of the leper in the day of his cleansing: He shall be brought unto the priest..."
• Matthew 5:17 , "Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil."
• Mark 1:44 , "And saith unto him, See thou say nothing to any man: but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing those things which Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them."

Language Study

• "Shew": This term, from the Greek word "deiknumi," means "to show" or "to demonstrate." Jesus is asking the man to present himself to the priest as proof of his cleansing.
• "Gift": Referring to the sacrifice required by the Law, "doron" in Greek, which holds the general meaning of a gift or offering.
• "Testimony": The Greek term used is "marturion," which can mean "evidence" or "witness," in this context likely pointing to the act itself as proof or witness to the priests.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient times, many cultures had rituals for cleansing or purifying individuals who had been ill or had come into contact with the dead.

The Biblical rite of cleansing from leprosy similarly reflects a broader cultural pattern where religious rituals are employed for reintegration into society.

Comparatively, in other religious traditions, such as Hinduism, there are also concepts of ritual purity and necessary rites after certain life events or experiences of impurity.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern science has changed the understanding of diseases like leprosy, now known to be caused by a bacterium and treatable with antibiotics.

The notion of ritual purity and impurity as it relates to disease is now better understood in the context of public health rather than moral or religious status.

However, the psychological and social processes of reintegration after illness remain relevant, with scientific studies supporting the benefits of social support and the negative impacts of stigmatization.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians have commented variously on Matthew 8:4.

Some emphasize the importance of Jesus' upholding the Jewish Law, seeing in this an affirmation of continuity between the Old and New Testaments.

Others focus on the Messianic Secret, speculating on the reasons behind Jesus' instruction to maintain silence about the healing.

Generally, commentators agree that this verse illustrates both Jesus' miraculous healing power and His respect for religious law and procedure.

The instruction about offering a gift according to Moses' commandment is also understood as a point where Jesus' ministry touches and confirms the authority of the Torah.