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Explanation for:
Matthew
6
:
26
Behold the birds of the air, for they neither sow, nor do they reap, nor gather into barns: and your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are not you of much more value than they?
12
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{"arr":[{"author-name":"Jerome of Stridon","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88dcd3432c6dd41375498_Jerome%20of%20Stridon.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"The apostle advises us to exercise wisdom within the bounds that are appropriate. This principle should guide our understanding of the passage at hand. There are some interpreters who, wishing to transcend the boundaries set by the holy fathers and ascend to lofty heights, instead delve into lowly depths, claiming that the birds symbolize the angels of heaven and other divine beings, who are cared for by God’s Providence without any effort on their part. However, if this interpretation is accepted, how should we comprehend the subsequent statement directed towards humanity: Are ye not much more than they? We ought to interpret this passage in a straightforward manner: if birds, which are cared for without concern or sorrow through God's Providential power—birds that exist today and are gone tomorrow—how much greater is God's care for humankind, to whom eternal life is promised!"},{"author-name":"John Chrysostom","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88ea76859f9f8e2ffd3ee_John%20Chrysostom.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"God bestowed the soul once, and it remains unchanged, while the physical body develops daily. To illustrate the everlasting nature of the soul and the temporal nature of the body, the Savior further asked: \\"Who can add a single hour to his lifespan?\\" (Matt. 6:27). By remaining silent concerning the soul—since it does not grow—He focused solely on the body, underscoring that the body does not thrive merely through food but rather by God’s divine provision. Paul echoed this sentiment, stating, \\"Neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase\\" (1 Cor. 3:7). This is how the Savior provided persuasion grounded in our own nature. \\n\\nHe also utilized various illustrations, urging us to observe the birds of the air. To counter any notion that our concerns are vital, He draws comparisons, contrasting the greater example of the soul with the lesser example of the birds. The implication is clear: if God cares for the most humble of creatures, how much more will He provide for you? This message was directed at the ordinary people, yet He spoke differently to the tempter. For instance, He affirmed, \\"Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God\\" (Matthew 4:4). When referencing birds, His argument holds substantial weight; their behavior serves as a compelling lesson. \\n\\nHowever, some reckless individuals critique this analogy, claiming that those who function with free will shouldn't take lessons from nature, where necessity prevails. How should we respond? Although necessity indeed influences existence, we can also choose to act of our own volition. The Savior did not merely say, \\"Look at the birds—they fly,\\" which is impossible for humans; rather, He highlighted that they feed without worry. This is achievable for us, should we choose to do so, and has been demonstrated by those who have pursued it in practice.\\n\\nThus, we ought to marvel at the wisdom of the Lawgiver. Even though He could have used human examples like Elijah, Moses, or John—figures who did not fret about sustenance—He further emphasized His point by referencing beings without voices. Had He cited those righteous individuals, His audience might have claimed they were not yet capable of such faith. By forgoing those examples and instead mentioning the birds of the air, He eliminated any excuse, embodying the principles of the ancient law which directs one to consider the bee, the ant, the turtledove, or the swallow. We are honored to achieve by willpower what they possess by nature. \\n\\nTherefore, if God gives such care to the creation intended for us, how much more for us? If He tends to the servants, how much more to the Master? Thus, the Savior proclaimed, \\"Consider the birds,\\" omitting their nature as sowers or traders—tasks seen as menial among the Jews—but emphasizing that they neither sow nor reap. One might ask, “Do they not sow?” No, He didn’t state they do not sow; rather, He indicated they do not worry. He did not imply they shouldn't labor but rather that they shouldn't be fearful or exhaust themselves with anxiety. He commanded them to seek sustenance without trepidation. \\n\\nDavid alluded to this when he wrote, \\"You open Your hand and satisfy the desire of every living thing\\" (Psalms 145:16); in another passage, \\"He gives to the beast its food, and to the young ravens that cry\\" (Psalms 147:9). Who among us has not cared? Have you not taken note of the numerous righteous individuals I have set before you as models? Consider Jacob, who departed his father’s house with nothing. Remember his plea: \\"If God will be with me and keep me in this way that I go, and give me bread to eat and clothing to wear\\" (Genesis 28:20). This reveals he was unconcerned about everything, seeking all from God. The apostles exemplified the same principle, having forsaken all, they worried for nothing; the conversion of the five thousand and three thousand believers reflected this same commitment. \\n\\nIf, upon hearing these words, you do not wish to be liberated from the burdensome ties of life, at the very least, reflect on the futility of your worries and let them go."},{"author-name":"Augustine of Hippo","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88950a5c988a4fc06c7ae_Augustine%20of%20Hippo.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":5,"exegesis-text":"These instances should not be interpreted as mere allegories by analyzing the significance of the birds in the sky or the lilies in the field. Instead, they are illustrated to encourage us to discover profound truths through seemingly insignificant details."},{"author-name":"John Damascene","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88f1652142a026a0c6d53_John%20Damascene.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":8,"exegesis-text":"It is stated that the One who created our spirit and physical form will also provide us with nourishment and garments, for if He sustains the birds of the air and adorns the flowers of the field with such splendor."},{"author-name":"Theophylact of Bulgaria","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8989296bafed9104677d7_Theophylact%20of%20Bulgaria.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":11,"exegesis-text":"The Lord might have used Elijah or John as illustrations, yet He chose to remind us of the birds to highlight our own foolishness in comparison. God sustains them by instilling within them the instinct to seek nourishment."},{"author-name":"Euthymios Zigabenos","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":11,"exegesis-text":"To address the concern that one might wonder how to sustain themselves without being preoccupied with their needs, this issue is countered by considering the example of the birds, which God nourishes without them needing to strive for it. While examples of humans like Elijah and John could have been mentioned, they were not, as the analogy of the birds effectively dispels doubts by highlighting a form of life that requires no effort to obtain sustenance. Ancient Scriptures further encourage individuals by pointing to the industriousness of bees, ants, and other creatures. The birds, remaining in their original state, receive plentiful food suited to their nature, whereas humanity, having distanced itself from God, finds itself lacking. However, by returning to God, what was lost due to separation is reclaimed. This is why the command is to focus not on provisions for the body but on the return to God. Are we not much greater than the birds? If God cares even for the least of creatures, how much more will He care for us? The One who fashioned the body that requires nourishment will undoubtedly provide for it. Therefore, should we not cultivate the earth? He did not strictly prohibit sowing; rather, He taught not to be consumed by it. It is the mark of spiritual maturity to engage in acts that seek eternal sustenance, like cultivating virtues, as the apostles exemplified, while entrusting one's needs to God. \\"Give us this day our daily bread,\\" He instructs, demonstrating that those who have yet to reach this perfection may plant seeds but should not worry excessively about the growth of those seeds, nor allow their souls to be overlooked amidst such concerns. Thus, He did not issue a command against sowing, but aimed to underscore God's provision for them. What benefit is there in burdening oneself with such worries? Even with the most intense efforts, one cannot control the rain, sun, or winds needed for the fruitfulness of crops—these are solely in God’s hands. This principle equally applies to our needs for drink, clothing, and other essentials. How is it possible to live without worrying about these things? Just as the saints lived—recognizing our own frailties should not lead us to consider God's commands impossible. God does not ask anything beyond our capabilities, as He is acutely aware of human limits, not only as our Creator but also by sharing in our experience. For those who have detached themselves from worldly concerns, such commands may seem manageable, while they appear daunting to us who remain engaged with the world. God sustains the birds by instilling in them the instinct to find sustenance."},{"author-name":"Nicephoros (Theotokis)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8958407451968d9c204fb_Nicephoros%20(Theotokis).png","category":"Christian Authors","century":18,"exegesis-text":"He uses as an illustration not the Israelites, whom Divine Providence nourished with manna and quails, nor Elijah, whom He sustained through a raven, but rather the birds of the air, as noted by the Prophet David, “Thou openest Thy hand, and fillest every living creature with favour” (Psalm 144:16). \\"To Him that giveth cattle their food, and to the chick of the wren that calleth upon Him” (Psalm 146:9). He brings up these examples to highlight the contrast between the lesser and the greater, aiming to reveal the folly of those who do not believe. Look, He states, at the birds of the air; they neither sow, nor reap, nor gather into barns as the indifferent do, yet your heavenly Father provides for them. But you are of far greater value than they: you possess reason, while they do not; you are eternal, while they are temporal; you command, while they are subjects; their existence is for your benefit, not the reverse. If God cares for them, will He not provide for you, the one to whom they owe their existence? Furthermore, He offers another demonstration based on human frailty and the emptiness of worldly concerns."},{"author-name":"Philaret (Amphiteatrov)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c896e9b7a2ebaf99e4620a_Philaret%20(Amphiteatrov).png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":19,"exegesis-text":"The Redeemer, as He directs our attention to the birds soaring in the sky, which the heavenly Father nourishes without their toil, desires that we observe this illustration of His unwavering Providence for all His creation. This constant reminder encourages us not to anchor our hearts to earthly concerns, but instead to elevate our spirits toward our heavenly home, allowing us to thrive in persistent faith and confidence in the Lord. If He provides for these small and seemingly insignificant creatures, will He neglect His devoted followers, whom He fashioned in His own image, whom He redeemed with the sacred blood of His only begotten Son, and to whom He has graciously prepared the heavenly riches of eternal blessings? - And what purpose do our anxious worries serve?"},{"author-name":"Abbot Panteleimon about the Trinity","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Observe the Lord's concern for His creation: “Look at the birds of the air,” He declares, “which soar effortlessly through the sky; they neither sow nor harvest nor gather their provisions, yet they do not go hungry, for your heavenly Father provides for them. If God demonstrates such care for these lower, unintelligent beings, can you not see that you, His children, are far more valued? Your existence in God's sight is infinitely more precious than that of birds; your soul reflects the image of God; it is rational and eternal. Can God overlook you? Will He not supply your needs? St. John Chrysostom notes that Christ did not say, “Observe the birds as they fly, which is beyond man's capability,” but rather, “behold how they eat without worry.” This is something we, too, can achieve, should we choose to do so, as evidenced by those who have lived out this truth through their actions. Moreover, consider the wisdom of the Lawgiver, who could have chosen to highlight human examples like Elijah, Moses, or John — individuals who did not concern themselves with food. Yet, to surprise His audience further, He pointed instead to those creatures that do not toil for their sustenance. Had He referred to those righteous figures, His listeners might have claimed they could not yet attain their level of faithfulness. But by bypassing them and illustrating with the birds of the air, He has eliminated any excuses for inaction. Thus, if God attends diligently to the needs of the things created for our benefit, how much more will He tend to us? If He shows regard for servants, how much greater is His care for their master? Man cannot accomplish anything through mere pride. This stands as evidence. God has bestowed upon each of us both a soul and a body; while the soul remains constant, the body grows and changes daily."},{"author-name":"Michail (Lusin)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c89550c567e172d15b3055_Michail%20(Lusin).png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Consider the birds of the air. They serve as a vivid illustration of the might and benevolence of our Heavenly Father, who tends to all His creations and consequently renders unnecessary any undue worry we may have about fulfilling our physical needs. The birds of the air—soaring freely and joyfully in the open sky—do not gather their own provisions, yet they do not perish from hunger, for the Heavenly Father, who watches over them, provides their sustenance. Surely, your life holds greater value in the sight of God than that of the birds; your soul is destined for eternity, while the existence of birds is confined to this fleeting world. Does it align with the goodness of your heavenly Father to leave you without the fulfillment of your temporary physical needs when He shows such care even for the birds of the air? Thus, do not be overly anxious. \\"Shall we not therefore sow?\\" someone might inquire. He did not say they should refrain from sowing, but rather that they should not be consumed with worry; neither did He suggest avoiding work, but rather that they should not be timid or exhaust themselves with concerns. For He has also commanded us to provide for others, but not to fret about provisions."},{"author-name":"Philaret of Moscow (Drosdow)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c896ffb7a2ebaf99e46539_Philaret%20of%20Moscow%20(Drosdow).png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":19,"exegesis-text":"The Lord Jesus Christ expresses the nature of God's Providence in the Scriptures: \\"Look at the birds of the sky, for they neither sow, nor reap, nor gather into barns, and your heavenly Father feeds them: are you not better than they are?\\" (Matthew 6:26). In this statement, we observe both God's general care for all creation and His specific concern for humanity. The entirety of Psalm 90 illustrates the varied and particular Providence of God towards people."},{"author-name":"Kochomski S.W.","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Consider the birds of the sky; they do not plant, harvest, or store food in granaries, yet your heavenly Father sustains them. They do not toil to secure their nourishment, as God Himself provides for them wherever they are (Job 39:3). Are you not far more valuable than they? ‘Are you not much more precious in the eyes of the Father which is in heaven?’ If humanity, particularly the children of the kingdom of Christ, holds immeasurable worth compared to the irrational creatures, then God's concern for them is correspondingly greater. Their work is not essential for sustaining life but is meant to reflect the Original Image (John 5:17) in obedience to God's command (Gen. 2:15) and His design (Gen. 3:19)."}]}
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