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1
The "Keys" Unlock the Gospel
Commentators widely agree that the "keys of the kingdom" symbolize the authority to preach the gospel. By proclaiming the message of Jesus, the "door" to God's kingdom is opened. Scholars note Peter was given the unique honor of being the first to use these keys, opening the door of faith to both Jews (at Pentecost) and Gentiles (at the house of Cornelius). This authority is not about personal power but about stewarding the message of salvation.
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Matthew
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Commentaries
8
Albert Barnes
On Matthew 16:19
18th Century
Theologian
And I will give to you, etc. A key is an instrument for opening a door. The one who is in possession of it has the power of acces…
AT Robertson
On Matthew 16:19
The Keys of the kingdom (τας κλειδας της βασιλειας). Here again we have the figure of a building with keys to open from the outsid…
Charles Spurgeon
On Matthew 16:19
19th Century
Preacher
The new kingdom would not be all-comprehensive, like Noah’s ark, but would have its dove and its keys. For practical purposes, the people of God wo…
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Expositor's Bible Commentary
On Matthew 16:19
The promise about the “keys of the kingdom” goes beyond the days of Jesus’ earthly ministry. What Jesus’ disciples thought this meant at the time i…
John Calvin
On Matthew 16:19
16th Century
Theologian
And I will give you the keys. Here Christ now begins to speak of the public office, that is, of the Apostleship, which he dignifies with a…
John Gill
On Matthew 16:19
17th Century
Pastor
And I will give to you the keys of the kingdom of heaven
heaven
By the kingdom of hea…
Matthew Henry
On Matthew 16:13–20
17th Century
Minister
Peter, speaking for himself and his brothers, said that they were assured that our Lord was the promised Messiah, the Son of the living God. This s…
Thomas Aquinas
On Matthew 16:13–19
13th Century
Philosopher
Above, the Lord taught that the Gospel teaching ought to be kept pure from the leaven of the Jews; now here He teaches the exalted nature of His do…