Matthew 11:12

Matthew 11:12, in plain English

Jesus says that since John the Baptist began preaching, the kingdom of heaven has been advancing with force, and passionate people are seizing hold of it.

Why it's here

Jesus is describing a kingdom that is not passive or quiet. It provokes strong reactions -- both from those who desperately want in and from those who try to stop it.

Who's speaking

Jesus speaks to the crowd.

Where it sits in the story

Jesus paints a picture of a kingdom that is dynamic and powerful. It is not for the half-hearted -- it demands and inspires wholehearted response.

The scholarly reading

This notoriously difficult verse states that the kingdom of heaven 'suffers violence' (biazetai) and 'violent ones seize it' (biastai harpazousin auten) -- interpretations range from the kingdom being attacked to the spiritually fervent pressing in.

Language and setting

The verb biazetai can be middle ('advances forcefully') or passive ('is attacked'). Combined with biastai, this may describe either hostile opposition to the kingdom or the intense spiritual effort required to enter it.

Voice

Jesus speaks to the crowds about the nature of the kingdom.

Significance

Jesus describes the kingdom of heaven in urgent, forceful language, suggesting that from John's ministry onward, the kingdom has provoked intense response -- whether violent opposition or passionate pursuit.

10This is the one about whom it is written: ‘Behold, I will send My messenger ahead of You, who will prepare Your way before You.’

11Truly I tell you, among those born of women there has risen no one greater than John the Baptist. Yet even the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.

12From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has been subject to violence, and the violent lay claim to it.

13For all the Prophets and the Law prophesied until John.

14And if you are willing to accept it, he is the Elijah who was to come.

Read all of Matthew 11 — John the Baptist doubts from prison. Cities refuse to repent. And in the middle of it all, Jesus offers rest to the weary.