Bible Verse Commentary: Matthew 8:21
Matthew 8:21: "And another of his disciples said unto him, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father."
Understanding the Context
This verse occurs in the context of Jesus' ministry as he travels and teaches. The request made by the disciple reflects a serious cultural and familial obligation—the duty to bury one's father, which was considered a paramount responsibility in Jewish culture. The urgency of following Jesus contrasts sharply with this seemingly legitimate request.
Insights from Public Domain Commentaries
- Matthew Henry: Henry emphasizes the total commitment required to follow Christ. He suggests that the disciple's request, while culturally significant, demonstrates a hesitation that might interfere with the immediate response that Jesus calls for. Serving Christ should take precedence over even the most sacred family duties.
- Albert Barnes: Barnes examines the duality of discipleship and worldly obligations. He notes the importance of prioritizing spiritual obligations over societal norms. The phrase "suffer me first" indicates a delay in service that might reflect one's attachment to earthly affairs. Barnes argues that Jesus' teaching here illustrates the urgency and all-encompassing nature of discipleship.
- Adam Clarke: Clarke provides additional context regarding the cultural expectations of the time. He remarks that this request may not mean the father was dead already, but that the disciple wished to wait until after his father’s eventual death. Clarke points out that Jesus challenges this notion by calling for an immediate commitment, teaching that allegiance to Him must surpass societal and familial obligations.
Theological Implications
This verse is critical for understanding the call to discipleship in the New Testament. It highlights the theme of radical commitment and the cost of following Jesus. Believers are invited to ponder the priorities in their own lives—do material relationships and duties impede their spiritual growth and availability for ministry?
Application to Daily Life
For modern-day believers, Matthew 8:21 serves as a challenge to reassess their priorities and the extent of their commitment to Christ. In practical terms, individuals may reflect on areas in their lives where they are delaying their spiritual growth, perhaps due to responsibilities or attachments, and consider how to align their actions with the call of Jesus to serve Him first.
Related Bible Verses
- Luke 9:59-60: "But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God."
- Matthew 10:37: "He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me."
- Philippians 3:8: "Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ."
Conclusion
The verse Matthew 8:21 encourages us to reflect deeply on what it means to follow Jesus amidst life’s demands. The combined insights from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke reinforce the necessity for believers to prioritize their commitment to Christ, challenging us to embrace a life of radical discipleship and devotion.
