How does Matthew 13:17 encourage us to value our access to Scripture? The Verse in Focus “For truly I tell you, many prophets and righteous men longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it.” — Matthew 13:17 What Jesus Was Saying • Prophets such as Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Daniel spoke God’s words yet never witnessed the arrival of the Messiah. • “Righteous men” include every Old Testament saint who trusted God’s promises but died before Jesus walked the earth. • Jesus affirms that His listeners enjoy a privilege those earlier generations could only anticipate. Why Their Longing Matters to Us • Their yearning highlights the preciousness of revelation—we possess the full story they awaited. • If they treasured partial light, how much more should we treasure the completed canon that unveils Christ’s life, death, and resurrection. • Their example warns against taking God’s Word lightly. Our Unmatched Privilege Today • We hold the entire Bible in one volume—available digitally, audibly, in multiple translations. • We can trace prophecy to fulfillment with clarity unavailable to any prior age (Luke 24:25-27). • We enjoy the indwelling Spirit who “will guide you into all truth” (John 16:13). Scripture Echoes That Underscore the Point • 1 Peter 1:10-12—prophets “searched and investigated carefully” yet knew the message was “not for themselves, but for you.” • Hebrews 1:1-2—God “has spoken to us by His Son,” the climactic revelation. • 2 Peter 1:19—“We also have the word of prophecy as sure as ever.” • Psalm 19:7-10 and 119:72—God’s Word is sweeter than honey, worth more than gold. Practical Ways to Cherish Scripture • Read daily, expecting to meet the living Christ. • Memorize key passages so truth is available anytime (Psalm 119:11). • Apply what you learn immediately—obedience cements appreciation (James 1:22-25). • Share the Word with others, multiplying the blessing (2 Timothy 2:2). • Support translation and distribution efforts so every nation can hear what prophets longed to know. Takeaway Matthew 13:17 reminds us that we possess what generations only dreamed of: the completed revelation of God in Christ. Let their longing stir fresh gratitude and a renewed commitment to open, study, live, and share the Scriptures we have so freely received. |
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