What does Matthew 12:20 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 12:20 contains a figurative description of Jesus' compassionate approach to ministry.

The verse says, “A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not quench, till he send forth judgment unto victory.” In this verse, “a bruised reed” is likely a metaphor for people who are wounded or weak.

Reeds are tall, thin plants that grow in wet areas.

When they are bruised or damaged, they are close to breaking but not entirely broken.

Similarly, “smoking flax” refers to a wick that is smoldering and about to go out.

The idea here is that even something as feeble as a dimly burning wick won't be extinguished.

Jesus will not discard or destroy those who are frail or struggling but instead will nurture them back to strength.

The "judgment unto victory" part of the passage is taken to mean that Christ's judgment brings about justice and triumph over wrongs, rather than condemnation.

Historical Context

This verse is a quote from Isaiah 42:3, which is part of a passage known as one of the "Servant Songs" describing the coming Messiah.

The Gospel of Matthew often portrays Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, with the author using these references to show Jesus as the expected Messiah.

Matthew 12:20 occurs within a section where Jesus has been criticized by the Pharisees for healing on the Sabbath.

Jesus responds to this criticism with a message emphasizing mercy rather than legalistic sacrifice, quoting Hosea, and making it clear that his ministry is about healing and restoration rather than rejection and condemnation.

Theological Insights

Different theological perspectives focus on various aspects of this verse:

• Evangelicals might emphasize the personal nature of Jesus’ compassion, reflecting on how Christ relates intimately with individuals in their frailty.
• Reformed theologians could interpret the “judgment unto victory” as a foretaste of the sovereign power of Christ to bring about both salvation and justice.
• Catholic and Orthodox viewpoints might reflect on how the Church, as the Body of Christ, is called to continue this merciful ministry to the broken and hurting.
• Liberation theology might see in this verse a call for the Church to be engaged in social justice and the uplifting of marginalized individuals.

Practical Applications

This verse can inform how individuals and communities of faith interact with those who are struggling or marginalized.

It may lead believers to act compassionately toward people who are figuratively “bruised” or whose faith is like “smoking flax” - barely alive.

The emphasis is on care, patience, and nurturing rather than dismissal or harsh judgment.

It encourages a ministry of restoration and the promotion of justice with an aim toward achieving victory over life's hardships.

Cross-References

• Isaiah 42:3: "A bruised reed shall he not break, and the smoking flax shall he not quench: he shall bring forth judgment unto truth."
• Psalm 147:3: "He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds."
• Isaiah 61:1: "The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound;"
• Matthew 11:28-30: "Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."

Language Study

Key words in the original Greek text of this verse and their meanings include:

• "A bruised reed" (κάλαμος συντετριμμένος): refers to a reed stalk that has been crushed or weakened.
• "He not break" (οὐ κατεάξει): implies not destroying or finishing off what is already damaged.
• "Smoking" (λίνον τυφόμενον): comes from a word that means smoldering or faintly burning.
• "Flax" (λίνον) can be understood as the material used for a lamp wick.
• "He not quench" (οὐ σβέσει): means He will not extinguish or snuff out.
• "Judgment" (κρίσιν): in this context implies justice or decisive intervention.
• "Unto victory" (εἰς νῖκος): indicating a result of success or conquest over adversity.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other cultural and religious traditions, leaders and deities are often portrayed as either exacting or merciful.

For example, in some Buddhist texts, the ideal bodhisattva shows compassion toward all living beings.

In the Hindu Bhagavad Gita, Krishna counsels Arjuna with a deep understanding of his internal struggle.

While the specific metaphor of the "bruised reed" and "smoking flax" is unique to the Judeo-Christian scripture, the themes of mercy, compassion, and restorative justice appear across different religions.

Scientific Perspectives

While this verse does not directly intersect with scientific principles, the concept of not breaking a bruised reed or quenching smoking flax could metaphorically be linked to the scientific understanding of ecosystems and how fragile environments or species require careful management and conservation.

The verse's emphasis on compassion and restoration can parallel environmental stewardship's focus on repairing and not further degrading wounded ecosystems.

Commentaries

Various biblical commentaries expound upon this verse:

• Matthew Henry's Commentary stresses the gentle character of Christ's dominion and his tenderness toward those who are weak in faith or repentance.
• Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary discusses how the phrase points to the character of Christ's mission on earth, showing his gentleness and patience.
• The Expositor's Bible Commentary reflects on the merciful nature of Jesus' ministry and the hope offered to those who might feel as though they are at breaking point.
• John Calvin's Commentaries focus on the idea of Jesus bringing forth justice in a way that does not involve violence or force, yet achieves the intended end of salvation and renewal.