What is the Meaning of Matthew 16:28 in the King James Version (KJV)?

Matthew 16:28 in the King James Version (KJV) is a key verse that has been the subject of much discussion and interpretation over the centuries. The implications of Jesus' statement are profound and can lead to a deeper understanding of His teachings. This article explores the context and meaning of this verse, providing insights that can help clear any misunderstandings and bring clarity to one's faith.

Context of Jesus' Statement

The quote in question is found in Matthew 16:27-28. Jesus was speaking to His disciples about the forthcoming events that would mark His earthly journey toward Jerusalem. He emphasized the suffering and crucifixion He would endure at the hands of the religious authorities. This backdrop is crucial for understanding the subsequent statements.

Jesus' statement begins with a verse that highlights the themes of His upcoming sufferings and resurrection: "From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day." (Matthew 16:21, KJV)

This statement was a turning point in Jesus' ministry, as it began to focus the disciples' attention on the true extent of His mission and the road ahead. Jesus was not just teaching about the future but also assessing the perception of His followers regarding His true identity and the works He was preparing them for.

Understanding the Key Terms

To fully grasp the meaning of Matthew 16:28, it is essential to differentiate between two key events referenced in the passage:

The Second Coming in Glory: This refers to the future, end-time manifestation of Jesus Christ, where He will return to judge the living and the dead and establish His kingdom in full splendor. The Beginning of His Kingdom After Resurrection: This event, which is the foundation of His authority, is tied to His resurrection. After rising from the dead, Jesus was granted all authority both in heaven and on earth (Matthew 28:18, KJV).

The key to unlocking the true meaning of Matthew 16:28 lies in recognizing that after His resurrection, Jesus would establish His kingdom on earth as the Son of Man. This invitation to see the 'glory' of Christ and His kingdom is not limited to the present but extends to the future when believers will witness His incarnation with flesh and become God again, as a victor in saving humanity.

Religious and Kingdom Mindsets

The distinction between religious and kingdom mindsets is another critical aspect of understanding Jesus' statement. The religious mindset originates from the Old Testament era, while the kingdom mindset is rooted in the New Testament, which was ushered in by the arrival of Jesus Christ.

Jesus said in John 1:12, 'But as many as received him to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:' In the context of the New Testament, the term 'sons of God' is a reference to believers in Christ, emphasizing their transformation and inheritance of divine attributes.

Daniel 12:3 prophesies, 'And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.' John 11:13 underscores this transition, stating, 'For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John.' This confirms that the New Testament represents the 'beginning' of God's eternal kingdom, which will culminate in the glorious reign of Jesus Christ.

Pentecost and the Inheritance of God's Spirit

The arrival of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost was a crucial moment, marking the beginning of the New Testament era and the transformation of believers into sons and daughters of God. This event is highlighted in Acts 2:1-4, indicating that only in the New Testament period and through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit can believers truly be called sons of God.

Therefore, the statement in Matthew 16:28 can be interpreted as a promise that those standing with Jesus at that time would witness the visible manifestation of His ‘glory’ during the second coming. This will be seen as the triumphant return of Christ as King, after having established His authority and begun His kingdom.

In summary, Matthew 16:28 in the King James Version is a prophetic statement that points to the glorious return of Jesus Christ and the establishment of His kingdom. It is a call for believers to prepare for and await His second coming, as He will return to judge and to bring about the full realization of His kingdom in all its grandeur.