What does Matthew 11:1 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 11:1 encapsulates a transition from Jesus's detailed instructions to his twelve disciples (Matthew 10) to his own ministry in the cities of Galilee.

Jesus had just finished commissioning his disciples, giving them authority to heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, and cast out demons as they proclaimed the kingdom of heaven.

The verse indicates both an end and a beginning: the end of the disciples' preparatory training and the beginning of their active mission, along with the continuation of Jesus's own ministry.

This highlights the dual focus of Jesus's strategy: to minister himself, but also to raise up others who would continue and extend his work.

Historical Context

Matthew, traditionally believed to be the author, was one of the twelve disciples and would have had firsthand knowledge of the events he described.

The communities to which Jesus and his disciples ministered were primarily Jewish, and they were under Roman occupation at the time.

This was a period of messianic expectation among the Jews, and Jesus's teachings and miracles were attracting significant attention.

Dispatching his disciples was a strategic move to spread his message more widely in a land filled with diverse beliefs, social unrest, and political tension.

Theological Insights

Various theological insights can be gleaned from this verse.

One is the model of discipleship, where Jesus, the master teacher, equips and then sends his followers to continue his work.

Another is the concept of divine mission, as Jesus carries out the work he believes God has assigned him.

Still another is the idea of proclamation of the kingdom of heaven, a central theme in Jesus's teachings, which implies a transformative message of spiritual renewal and social change.

Different Christian traditions emphasize different aspects of this verse, from the missional sending of disciples to the personal call to follow Jesus's example of teaching and preaching.

Practical Applications

This verse can be applied in various ways.

Followers of Jesus today might see in it a calling to be active in spreading their faith and engaging in works of compassion and justice.

There is also an application here for leadership training and mentorship, where seasoned leaders prepare others to carry on the mission.

Furthermore, the example of Jesus moving on to continue his work illustrates the importance of perseverance and the ongoing nature of spiritual endeavors.

Cross-References

• Matthew 10: The preceding chapter outlines the instructions Jesus gave to his disciples.
• Mark 6:7-13: This passage provides Mark's account of Jesus sending out the Twelve.
• Luke 9:1-6: Luke also describes how Jesus gave the disciples authority to drive out demons and cure diseases.
• Matthew 28:19-20: The Great Commission, where Jesus sends his disciples to make disciples of all nations.
• Acts 1:8: Jesus tells his disciples they will be his witnesses in Jerusalem, and to the ends of the earth.

Language Study

Key terms in the original Greek of this verse include:

• ἐντελλόμενος (entellomenos): Often translated as "commanding," this word conveys the act of instructing with authority.
• μαθηταῖς (mathetais): Generally translated as "disciples," this term refers to followers or students of a teacher.
• διδάσκων (didaskon): Translated as "to teach," this verb suggests the act of imparting knowledge or instruction.
• κηρύσσων (kerusson): Translated as "to preach," highlighting the act of proclamation, often associated with heralding a public message.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparison with other ancient religious practices, the activities of teaching and preaching were not uncommon.

In Judaism, rabbis would teach in synagogues and public places.

In the Greek tradition, philosophers like Socrates and his disciples would engage the public in discourse to impart wisdom.

Jesus's model of sending out disciples has parallels in other religious traditions where a central figure entrusts his followers with his teachings and sends them out to spread the message.

Scientific Perspectives

The scientific community generally does not comment on religious texts except when they intersect with fields like archaeology or history.

In this context, archaeology might provide insights into the historical Jesus and the settings in which he and his disciples ministered.

The science of psychology might also offer understanding of the group dynamics among Jesus's followers or the impact of his teachings on the human psyche.

Commentaries

Commentaries by biblical scholars on Matthew 11:1 often focus on the significance of Jesus's ongoing ministry after delegating responsibility to his disciples.

William Barclay notes the importance of Jesus being a teacher and not just a preacher, implying a deeper level of engagement with his listeners.

Craig S.

Keener, in his commentary, points out the itinerant nature of Jesus's ministry, moving from place to place as was common for teachers of his day.

Many commentaries also observe the strategic nature of Jesus's mission in utilizing both personal action and the training of others to spread his message.