Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Matthew 17:11

"And he answered and said, Elijah indeed cometh, and shall restore all things:" — Matthew 17:11 (ASV)

Jesus answers the concerns of his disciples. On the one hand, Elijah comes first and “will restore all things”; John’s mission was a success (3:5–6; 14:5). On the other hand, “restore all things” must not be taken absolutely. The Baptist (Elijah) did fulfill his mission, but he was killed doing it. “In the same way the Son of Man is going to suffer at their hands.” If the Baptist’s restoration of “all things” did not prevent his own death, why should Messiah be any better received?