The Meaning of of Matthew 16:28
The message of Matthew 16:28 stresses the importance of living with hope for God’s eternal kingdom and Christ’s ultimate victory.
This is a powerful message in one of the synoptic gospels. This statement, made by Jesus resonates through the ages. It encourages believers to embrace faith and hope.
The key point of the verse is the admonition to live with an eternal perspective, understanding that this present world is not our final destination. Our true citizenship is in heaven, and our ultimate hope lies in the eternal kingdom of God through Jesus who holds the keys of the kingdom of heaven.
It is important to note Apostle Paul’s encouragement to believers to set their minds on things above and not on earthly things, for our lives are hidden with Christ in God.
Colossians 3 verses 1 to 4 mention,
“If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.”
This mindset transforms our priorities, decisions, and pursuits, enabling us to live purposefully and faithfully for God’s glory.
As believers, we are called to hold fast to the truth that Jesus Christ is not merely a historical figure but the eternal Son of God who came to redeem humanity. This verse points to a future event where some of Jesus’ disciples witnessed a glimpse of His divine glory before His crucifixion.
This event is commonly understood as the Transfiguration, where Jesus revealed His heavenly royal splendor to Peter, James, and John on a mountaintop (Matthew 17 verses 1 to 13).
The Transfiguration serves as a reminder of Jesus’ divinity and the promise of His eventual return in glory. As we journey through life’s challenges and uncertainties, this event reminds us to keep our eyes fixed on the eternal and to seek moments of intimacy with Christ through prayer, worship, and the study of His Word.
Similarly, another important message is the significance of prophetic revelation in the Christian faith. Just as Jesus foretold the Transfiguration, He also gave numerous prophecies concerning His death, resurrection, and the ultimate establishment of His coming kingdom in glorified form.
As believers, we are to hold fast to the prophetic promises found in the Scriptures, knowing that God’s word is true and will be fulfilled in due time.
One such prophecy is found in the book of Revelation, where John beholds a vision of Christ’s second coming and the establishment of the new heaven and new earth.
Revelation 21 verses 1 to 4 gave the account of this insight,
“Now I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away. Also there was no more sea. Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, “Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.”
These promises should fill our hearts with hope and assurance, even in the midst of trials, reminding us that our future is secure in Christ.
Most importantly, in awaiting the fulfillment of God’s promises as believers, we are called to exhibit enduring faith and patience. The promise in the verse indicates that not everyone present will taste death before witnessing the glory of Christ’s kingdom. This teaches us that God’s timing is not always immediate, and we must be patient as we trust in His plan.
2 Peter 3 verses 8 to 9 says,
“But, beloved, do not forget this one thing, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.”
In the scripture above, Apostle Peter emphasizes the importance of patient endurance, urging believers to remain steadfast in their faith and hope of Christ’s return. Just as a farmer patiently waits for the harvest, we are to wait expectantly, knowing that God’s promises are worth the wait and will come to pass at the perfect time.
While this verse of study looks forward to the future manifestation of Christ’s kingdom, it also reminds us that we can experience the glory of God’s kingdom here and now. In Acts chapter 2, the Day of Pentecost is a significant example of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the birth of the Church, marking the inauguration of God’s kingdom on earth.
As believers filled with the Holy Spirit, we have the privilege to participate in God’s redemptive work, spreading the Gospel and bringing the love and compassion of Christ to the world. Through acts of kindness, evangelism, and genuine love for one another, we can manifest God’s kingdom and make a lasting impact on those around us.
Therefore, as we meditate on these truths, let us be inspired to live boldly for Christ, eagerly awaiting His glorious return, when we will behold the fullness of His kingdom. May our lives be a testimony of His grace, love, and power as we shine brightly as lights in this world, pointing others to the hope found in Jesus Christ.
“Assuredly, I say to you, there are some standing here who shall not taste death” meaning
“Assuredly, I say to you, there are some standing here who shall not taste death,” means the raising of believers to eternal life at Christ’s second coming.
The literal interpretation of this statement is found when Jesus spoke to His disciples, telling them that some among them would not experience physical death before witnessing a significant event. The event Jesus referred to is called the transfiguration, which happened in the following chapter (Matthew 17 verses 1 to 8).
However, delving into the deeper implications and symbolism of the statement involves understanding the spiritual significance of the message beyond its literal sense. In this context, the statement is related to judgment, Christ’s coming, and the promise of eternal life.
First, the statement points to the promise of Jesus’ return as the Son of Man to establish His eternal kingdom. This is an important aspect of Christianity. Jesus’ return is associated with the final judgment of the living and the dead.
Revelation 22 verse 12 says, “And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to everyone according to his work.”
Likewise, the promise that some disciples will not taste death before witnessing Jesus coming in His kingdom also hints at the resurrection of believers who have died in Christ. Those who believe in Jesus will be raised to eternal life at His second coming.
1 Thessalonians 4 verses 16 to 17 says,
“For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord.”
Based on these promises, this statement provides assurance and hope for believers that even though we may face physical death, we will ultimately experience eternal life and be partakers of Christ’s kingdom.
John 11 verses 25 to 26 states,
“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?’”
In summary, the meaning of the statement emphasizes the deeper spiritual truths related to Christ’s second coming, believers’ resurrection to eternal life, and the assurance and hope for those who trust in Jesus. It invites believers to reflect on the significance of Jesus’ promise and to live with a confident expectation of His return and the establishment of His kingdom.
“Till they see the Son of Man coming in His kingdom.” meaning
“Till they see the Son of Man coming in His kingdom” means the promise of Christ’s eventual return in glory to establish His eternal kingdom.
Based on the context of this statement, it first primarily refers to the event where some individuals, present during Jesus’ earthly ministry, witnessed the Son of Man (Jesus Christ) coming in His kingdom before they experienced physical death.
However, this statement carries deeper spiritual significance. It highlights the promise of Christ’s eventual return in glory to establish His eternal kingdom. It speaks of a hope-filled expectation, emphasizing that Jesus’ earthly ministry was not the end of His mission but a prelude to His ultimate reign as King over all creation.
In Matthew 24 verses 30 to 31,
“Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And He will send His angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they will gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.”
Jesus speaks extensively about His second coming, describing how the Son of Man will appear with power and great glory. This is a direct reference to the fulfillment of His promise to return to His kingdom. Likewise, in the parable of the Ten Minas in Luke 19 verses 11 to 27, Jesus gave a teaching about a nobleman (representing Himself) who goes away to receive a kingdom and then returns.
The parable emphasizes the expectation of Christ’s return to establish His kingdom and hold His servants accountable. Therefore, the meaning of this statement delves into spiritual things, this is the spiritual truth that Jesus Christ, the Son of Man, is not only the Saviour who walked the earth but also the coming King who will reign in glory.
This promise gives hope, confidence, and a sense of purpose to the lives of believers. It reminds us that our present sufferings and challenges are temporary, and a day is coming when Jesus will return in His full majesty, establishing His eternal kingdom of righteousness and peace.
As believers, we are called to live with a sense of anticipation and readiness for His return.
In Matthew 24 verse 44, Jesus admonishes,
“Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”
This readiness involves living in faithful obedience to God’s Word, sharing the Gospel with others, and using our God-given gifts to advance His kingdom on earth.
Therefore, let us remain steadfast in our faith, knowing that Jesus is the King of kings and that His kingdom will have no end.
From the very beginning, God desired to grant His creation eternal communion with Him. In the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve enjoyed unbroken fellowship with God, the Creator, until sin destroyed the perfect harmony of their relationship. However, God’s love for His children remained unwavering as He set in motion a plan to redeem and restore His beloved creation.
As we journey through the pages of the Old Testament, we encounter the lives of faithful individuals who received a touch of God’s promise. The story of Abraham and Sarah illustrates how their steadfast trust in God’s covenant led to the fulfillment of the promise of descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky.
“Then He brought him outside and said, “Look now toward heaven, and count the stars if you are able to number them.” And He said to him, “So shall your descendants be.” (Genesis 15 verse 5).
This promise foreshadowed the eternal inheritance that believers would receive through faith in Jesus Christ.
In the New Testament, we witness the ultimate manifestation of the promise of eternal life in the person of Jesus Christ. Through His life, death, and glorious resurrection on the third day, Jesus became the doorway to eternal communion with the Father.
In the Gospel of John, Jesus shares the profound truth that
“whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3 verse 16).
The encounter with Nicodemus further emphasizes the amazing power of faith, as Jesus proclaims that
“unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God” (John 3 verse 3).
Likewise, the woman at the well’s encounter with Jesus in Samaria also illustrates the inclusivity of this gift. Despite societal barriers and personal struggles, Jesus offers her “living water” – a gift of eternal life that transcends cultural and social boundaries. These stories remind us that the promise of eternal life is available to all who believe and come to Him in faith.
As believers, we find ourselves lucky to be woven into this grand narrative of God’s love and grace. Through faith in Jesus Christ, we receive the gift of eternal life and become partakers of God’s kingdom. Apostle Paul reaffirms this truth, declaring,
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord”(Romans 6 verse 23).
This divine gift is not earned through our efforts but is freely given to us by God’s unmerited favour and mercy. The promise of eternal life continues to shine as a gift that offers us a secure and everlasting future in the presence of our Heavenly Father. As we further explore the depth of this gift in this message, may our hearts be drawn ever closer to the One who gave Himself to grant us eternal life.
Who wrote Matthew 16:28 and when was it written?
The Gospel of Matthew was written by the Apostle Matthew, one of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ. It was written between 70 and 100 CE.
What is the context of Matthew 16?
The context of Matthew 16 highlights Peter’s confession about Jesus and Jesus’ prediction of his death and resurrection.
The chapter begins with the Pharisees and Sadducees, two groups of Jewish religious leaders, coming to test Jesus by asking for a sign from heaven.
“He replied, “When evening comes, you say, ‘It will be fair weather, for the sky is red,’ and in the morning, ‘Today it will be stormy, for the sky is red and overcast.’ You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times. A wicked and adulterous generation looks for a sign, but none will be given it except the sign of Jonah.” Jesus then left them and went away.”
(Matthew 16 verses 1 to 4)
In response, Jesus rebuked them for seeking a sign and told them that they could discern the weather but not the “signs of the times.
The circumstantial context continues with a pivotal moment in Caesarea Philippi, where Jesus engages His disciples in a great question. He asks, “Who do men say that I, the Son of Man, am?”(Matthew 16 verse 13).
After various responses from the disciples, Peter, inspired by the Holy Spirit, boldly declared who he felt Jesus was.
Matthew 16 verses 16 to 17 mention,
“Simon Peter answered and said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God. Jesus answered and said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven”
Jesus commends Peter for this revelation and reveals that it was not mere human wisdom but the Father who had revealed it to him.
The significance of this confession is paramount, as it establishes Jesus’ divine identity and His role as the promised Messiah. This pivotal moment sets the stage for the subsequent teachings and promises, including the powerful verse of this message in Matthew 16 verse 28 which says,
“Assuredly, I say to you, there are some standing here who shall not taste death till they see the Son of Man coming in His kingdom.”
Following Peter’s confession, Jesus began to foretell His upcoming suffering, death, and resurrection. This revelation shocks the disciples, prompting Peter to rebuke Jesus.
“Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him, saying, Far be it from You, Lord; this shall not happen to You” (Matthew 16 verse 22)
Jesus’ responded, rebuking satan out of Peter.
This simply highlights the spiritual battle at play and the necessity of God’s redemptive plan. The prophecy of Jesus’ impending death and resurrection is crucial to understanding the context of this message. It establishes the backdrop of the promise of witnessing the Son of Man coming into His kingdom—a glimpse of hope amidst the approaching crucifixion.
What is the difference in biblical translations of Matthew 16:28 (NKJV, KJV, NIV & ESV)?
Matthew 16:28 (NKJV) biblical translation:
“Assuredly, I say to you, there are some standing here who shall not taste death till they see the Son of Man coming in His kingdom.”
Matthew 16:28 (KJV) biblical translation:
“Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom.”
Matthew 16:28 (NIV) biblical translation:
“Truly I tell you, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see the Son of Man coming in his kingdom.”
Matthew 16:28 (ESV) biblical translation:
“Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the Son of Man coming in his kingdom.”
There is no significant difference between the NKJV, KJV, ESV, and NIV translations. The four translations are written almost the same way in the bible gateway.
The primary differences are in the use of certain phrases like “assuredly” in NKJV, “verily” in KJV, and “truly” in NIV and ESV. Despite these slight differences, the four translations have the same meaning.
How do I apply Matthew 16:28 to my life?
Applying Matthew 16:28 to your life as a Christian is a journey of faith, hope, and kingdom perspectives.
The verse underscores the power of your faith in experiencing the reality of God’s kingdom. Believers with little faith are limited in their experience with God. They are often spiritually referred to as little children or babies. The whole world or the people today all began with little faith, but as we continue to feed ourselves with the mature spiritual food which is the word of God, we begin to translate from human nature into divine nature.
You may have former experiences of divine power, God’s promise to His children is to be with us till the end of the age. Put away every stumbling block and distraction.
Remember what the scriptures say in Proverbs 4 verse 18,
“But the path of the just is like the shining sun, That shines ever brighter unto the perfect day.”
1 Peter chapter 2 verses 2 to 3 says,
“as newborn babies, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby, if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious.”
The practical application of this message is to cultivate a vibrant faith that goes beyond intellectual belief. This is a good sense that involves building a deeper relationship with Christ through prayer, reading His word, and seeking His guidance in all aspects of your life. This will not only impact us but will also benefit others around us.
God entrusts certain special privileges to those who walk closely with Him. The whole world is full of challenges, possible solutions are only available with God through His word. Trust in His promises even when circumstances seem bleak, knowing that your faith unlocks divine encounters and a deeper understanding of His kingdom.
Just as the disciples experienced the Transfiguration, you too can seek divine encounters in your life. These encounters may not be as dramatic, but they can manifest through answered prayers, moments of divine intervention, and the gentle whisper of the Holy Spirit in your heart.
By actively seeking God’s presence and opening yourself to His leading, you can witness glimpses of His kingdom at work in your everyday life.
Applying this message calls you to live with kingdom perspectives. Prioritize the things of God over the temporary pursuits of this world. You should seek to understand and align your life with the will of God, and you should focus on eternal values rather than being consumed by worldly concerns.
Living with kingdom perspectives empowers you to make choices that honour God, show compassion to others, and seek justice in the world.
In the face of trials and challenges, persevere in faith, knowing that God’s promises are true. Life’s difficulties may shake your faith, but by holding firm to God’s Word and trusting in His character, you can overcome doubts and fears. Your journey of faith has a purpose and destination in God’s kingdom. Therefore, do not be discouraged but continue to walk in faith, knowing that God is with you every step of the way.
By cultivating a vibrant faith through prayer and the study of God’s Word, seeking divine encounters, and living with kingdom perspectives, you open yourself to experiencing the transformative reality of God’s kingdom in your daily life. As you apply this message to your life, be steadfast in your pursuit of God’s kingdom and find assurance in the promise of witnessing the glory of the Son of Man.
What is Matthew 16:28 prayer?
Heavenly Father, I come before You with a heart full of gratitude and trust in Your unfailing promises. I am reminded daily that the wonders of Your kingdom are accessible even in this earthly realm. Help me, O Lord, to hold fast to my faith and remain steadfast in hope, knowing that I will witness Your glory and power at work in my life and the lives of those around me.
Guide me, Holy Spirit, that I may discern Your presence and step out in faith, confident that You are always with me, directing my path.
I seek Your wisdom and guidance in all aspects of my life so that I may align myself with Your will and priorities. Let Your kingdom’s perspectives shape my choices and actions so that I may prioritize eternal values over temporary pursuits. As I journey through life, I pray that I will live with an unwavering faith that transcends mere intellectual belief.
Let my relationship with You deepen through prayer, the study of Your Word, and wholehearted surrender to Your plan. In my daily walk as a follower of Christ, may I be a living testimony of Your love and grace, shining Your light in the midst of darkness, this I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Conclusion
This verse serves as a reminder of the divine authority and sovereignty of Christ, reaffirming His role as the central figure in God’s plan of salvation. As followers of Jesus, we are called to embrace His teachings with faith and trust, understanding that He holds the ultimate authority over all aspects of life and eternity.
Additionally, the verse underscores the importance of hope and anticipation in our Christian journey. The promise that some of Jesus’ disciples would witness the coming of the Kingdom of God before their passing provides a sense of eagerness and urgency in our faith. As we eagerly await Christ’s return, we are encouraged to live with steadfast hope, seeking to share the Gospel, love one another, and make a positive impact on the world around us.
As we reflect on this verse, let us be inspired to live purposefully, seeking God’s will in all things and eagerly anticipating the coming of His Kingdom.
That we may walk in alignment with God’s divine plan and experience the fullness of His blessings in this life and the life to come, here is a call to all: Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth ( Colossians 3 verse 2)