What does Matthew 11:15 mean?

Explanation

The verse Matthew 11:15, "He that hath ears to hear, let him hear," emphasizes both the importance of being attentive and the willingness to understand Jesus' teachings.

Literally, the phrase suggests that those who are capable of hearing should listen to what is being said.

On a deeper level, it implies that not all will comprehend the message despite their physical ability to hear.

The statement acts as a call to discernment and spiritual receptiveness.

Jesus often used this phrase after speaking in parables or teaching something particularly challenging, suggesting that the truths of the Kingdom of God are not immediately obvious to all, and only those who are open and seeking will truly grasp them.

Historical Context

This statement is part of Jesus’ discourse where he speaks about John the Baptist’s role in the larger narrative of God’s salvation history.

It is set in a period when Jesus was actively teaching in Galilee, engaging with diverse crowds, including the religious elite, who often misunderstood or rejected his message.

The cultural context includes a Jewish audience with expectations of a Messiah and prophetic fulfillment.

By using this phrase, Jesus aligns himself with the prophetic tradition of the Old Testament, where prophets often declared messages that were not fully understood or accepted by their contemporaries.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse is associated with the concept of divine revelation and the human freedom to respond.

Among Christian theologians, there is a consensus that God's message requires an open heart and mind to comprehend.

This phrase can also be viewed through the lens of prevenient grace in Wesleyan theology, the idea that God's grace enables humans to seek and understand truth.

Calvinist interpreters might focus on the notion of the "elect" , those predestined to understand and accept the message of redemption.

Catholic theology might explore the interplay between human reason, faith, and the role of the Holy Spirit in illuminating truth.

Practical Applications

Practically, this verse encourages individuals to listen actively and seek spiritual understanding.

It suggests that genuine comprehension of spiritual matters is not passive but involves active engagement and a willingness to be changed by what one hears.

It can be a prompt for self-examination, challenging believers to consider whether they are truly open to God's word or if they are hardened to its transformative potential.

It also encourages the fostering of a community that values deep listening and mutual encouragement in faith.

Cross-References

• Mark 4:9: "And he said unto them, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear."
• Luke 8:8: "And other fell on good ground, and sprang up, and bare fruit an hundredfold.

And when he had said these things, he cried, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear."

• Revelation 2:7: "He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God."

Language Study

In examining the original Greek text, the phrase "ὁ ἔχων ὦτα ἀκούειν ἀκουέτω" reflects an imperative form of hearing.

The Greek word for "ear," "ὦτα" (ota), is used literally but symbolizes the ability to understand. "Ἀκούειν" (akouein), meaning "to hear," is in the present active infinitive, alluding to the continuous action of hearing.

The repetition of the verb "hear" in a more commanding form "ἀκουέτω" (akouetō) emphasizes the urgency of both hearing and heeding the message.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The phrase echoes wisdom literature found in other ancient cultures, where hearing and understanding are signs of a wise person.

For instance, in Confucianism, the ability to listen to and reflect upon teachings is essential for moral development.

In the context of the Near Eastern religious environment, this call to attentive listening could be seen as contrasting with many polytheistic rituals that were more focused on external rites than internal understanding.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific viewpoint, this verse may intersect with the study of psychology and neuroscience.

The directive to hear and understand touches upon cognitive processes like attention, perception, and comprehension.

Modern science has shown that simply hearing does not guarantee understanding; active listening and cognitive engagement are critical.

This aligns with the biblical call for a deeper form of listening that leads to transformation.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars offer different interpretations of Matthew 11:15.

William Barclay suggests that Jesus is calling people to pay attention because the truth he offers is not self-evident.

Craig Keener, in his commentary, states that this phrase challenges the audience to reflect deeply on what Jesus means, even if his message does not align with their expectations.

D.

A.

Carson mentions that Jesus’ use of this expression highlights the responsibility of the hearers to make an effort to understand the significance of his words and actions.