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Verse Takeaways
1
Heritage Isn't Enough
John the Baptist directly confronts the idea that physical lineage from Abraham guarantees God's favor. Commentators stress that this message is timeless: true relationship with God is based on a repentant heart, not family heritage, church membership, or cultural identity. Salvation requires personal repentance, not just relying on the faith of one's ancestors.
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Book Overview
Matthew
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Commentaries
11
Albert Barnes
On Matthew 3:9
18th Century
Theologian
And think not to say, etc. They regarded it as sufficient righteousness that they were descended from so holy a man as Abraham. They deeme…
AT Robertson
On Matthew 3:9
And think not to say within yourselves (κα μη δοξητε λεγειν εν εαυτοις). John touched the tender spot, their ecclesiastical pride.…
Charles Spurgeon
On Matthew 3:8–9
19th Century
Preacher
Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance: and think not to say within ourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, tha…
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Expositor's Bible Commentary
On Matthew 3:9
The coming of God’s reign either demands repentance (v.2) or brings judgment. Repentance must be genuine: if we wish to escape the coming wrath (v.…
John Calvin
On Matthew 3:9
16th Century
Theologian
And think not to say within yourselves (Luke 3:8); And begin not to say within yourselves. As the meaning of both phr…
John Gill
On Matthew 3:9
17th Century
Pastor
And think not to say within yourselves
John knew the sentiments of their minds, and the prevailing opinion they had …
Matthew Henry
On Matthew 3:7–12
17th Century
Minister
Applying the message to the souls of the hearers is the life of preaching; and so it was with John's preaching. The Pharisees placed their main emp…
Thomas Aquinas
On Matthew 3:1–12
13th Century
Philosopher
The Evangelist wrote about Christ’s entrance into the world; now, however, he writes about the course of His life, which is, in fact, considered ac…