What does Matthew 18:11 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 18:11 speaks to the mission of Jesus Christ.

The verse, "For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost," outlines the purpose of Jesus' incarnation according to Christian belief.

It suggests that Jesus, referred to as the "Son of man," came into the world with a rescue mission directed towards those who are spiritually lost. The "lost" refers to those who have strayed from God's path, and Jesus' mission was to offer salvation and a way back to a relationship with God.

This verse encapsulates the redemptive heart of the Gospel message.

Historical Context

Matthew 18:11 is situated within the Gospel of Matthew, which was written for a primarily Jewish audience around 70-110 AD. It comes immediately after Jesus' discourse on humility and the Parable of the Lost Sheep, which highlights God's concern for individuals even within a larger flock.

The cultural backdrop involves a society where religious leaders often sidelined those they deemed sinners, and the message of Jesus as the savior of the lost would have been revolutionary and challenging to the religious status quo.

Theological Insights

Different theological viewpoints emerge from this verse.

From an Evangelical perspective, it highlights the doctrine of salvation, where Jesus is seen as the only rescuer of humanity from sin.

A Catholic interpretation might focus on the role of the Church in the continuation of Jesus' mission, emphasizing community and the sacraments as means to reclaim the lost.

The Orthodox tradition may emphasize the kenosis or self-emptying of Jesus to become human and thus approachable for the lost.

Liberation theology could see in this verse a call to social justice, where saving the lost includes addressing systemic sins that cause oppression and marginalization.

Practical Applications

In daily life, this verse can inspire acts of compassion and outreach.

It encourages believers to view others with empathy, as individuals who may be lost and in need of support, guidance, or understanding.

It reminds the Christian community to be inclusive and active in efforts to help those who may feel spiritually or socially estranged.

This can manifest in personal relationships, community service, and mission work.

Practically, it means that no individual is considered beyond the reach of love and redemption.

Cross-References

• Luke 19:10: "For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost."
• Ezekiel 34:16: "I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick..."
• 1 Timothy 1:15: "This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners..."
• Luke 15:4-6: "What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it?"

Language Study

The key phrase "Son of man" (Greek: υἱὸς τοῦ ἀνθρώπου, huios tou anthrōpou) is a title for Jesus, emphasizing his humanity and identification with those he came to save.

"Save" (Greek: σῶσαι, sōsai), implies rescue or deliverance, primarily in a spiritual or eternal sense.

"Lost" (Greek: τὸ ἀπολωλός, to apolōlos) indicates someone who has perished or is destroyed and in this context refers to being spiritually adrift or separated from God.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

This concept of a divine figure coming to save humanity can be compared with other cultural myths of heroes or deities who go on quests to rescue those in peril.

In religious terms, similar themes appear in various traditions, such as the Hindu concept of avatars like Krishna who come to earth for the purpose of restoring dharma, or the Bodhisattva in Buddhism who delays enlightenment to save all sentient beings.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific standpoint, discussions typically do not intersect directly with matters of faith and salvation as they are outside empirical measurement.

However, psychology and social science may offer insights into the human experience of feeling "lost" and the positive impact that beliefs and community support can have on an individual's well-being.

The sense of purpose, identity, and belonging provided by religious beliefs can be seen as beneficial from a mental health perspective.

Commentaries

Commentators offer varied interpretations of Matthew 18:11.

William Barclay notes the significance of Jesus referring to himself as the "Son of man," highlighting his approachability and solidarity with humanity.

John Calvin speaks to the depth of God's mercy in seeking the lost.

Matthew Henry sees in this verse an illustration of the tender care of Jesus for sinners and his diligence in the work of salvation.

More contemporary scholars like N.T.

Wright focus on the socio-religious implications and the challenge it presents to established norms and structures within society.