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Verse Takeaways
1
Jesus Cherishes the Weak
Commentators overwhelmingly agree that the 'bruised reed' and 'smoking flax' are metaphors for people who are spiritually weak, broken, or new in their faith. The verse reveals Jesus's profound gentleness. Instead of crushing the fragile or extinguishing a faint flicker of faith, He carefully nurtures, heals, and strengthens those who are struggling or contrite.
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Matthew
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Commentaries
7
Albert Barnes
On Matthew 12:20
18th Century
Theologian
A bruised reed, etc. The reed is an emblem of feebleness, as well as change (Matthew 11:7). A bruised, broken reed is an emble…
AT Robertson
On Matthew 12:20
A bruised reed (καλαμον συντετριμμενον). Perfect passive participle of συντριβω. A crushed reed he will not break. The curious aug…
Charles Spurgeon
On Matthew 12:20
19th Century
Preacher
He left the bruised reed of Pharisaic presence to prove its own impotence—it was not at that time worth His while to break it. And the smoking flax…
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Expositor's Bible Commentary
On Matthew 12:20
This quotation from Isa 42:1–4 is the longest one in Matthew. Jesus is God’s “chosen” (GK 1721) or elect Servant, the one on whom God has poured ou…
John Calvin
On Matthew 12:20
16th Century
Theologian
Till he send out judgment into victory. The words of the prophet are a little different, he will bring forth the judgment unto truth.<…
John Gill
On Matthew 12:20
17th Century
Pastor
A bruised reed shall he not break Various are the thoughts of interpreters, about what is meant by this, and by
Matthew Henry
On Matthew 12:14–21
17th Century
Minister
The Pharisees took counsel to find some accusation, that Jesus might be condemned to death. Aware of their design, as his time was not yet come, he…