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Explanation for:
Matthew
11
:
10
For this is he of whom it is written: Behold I send my angel before thy face, who shall prepare thy way before thee.
13
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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":"In addition to the excellence of the prophet, the importance of the Baptist is highlighted, suggesting an increase in merit. This is evidenced by the words of the prophet Malachi, who refers to him as an angel in Malachi 3:1. However, we should not presume that John is termed an angel because of a shared nature; rather, this designation reflects the honor of his ministry, serving as a messenger who announced the arrival of the Lord."},{"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":"Initially, He provides the testimony of the Jews, followed by the declaration of the prophet. More specifically, He first shares the views of the Jews, which, despite being the words of adversaries, offer the most compelling evidence. Next, He highlights the life of this individual; then, He delivers His judgment; and finally, He refers to him as a prophet to completely silence their objections. Furthermore, to counter any claims that he may have been different in the past but is now transformed, the Savior offers additional evidence by pointing to his garments, his imprisonment, and by citing prophecy. After asserting that he is greater than the prophet, He clarifies the reason for this greatness—his closeness to the Coming One. \\"I will send my angel before thy face,\\" referring to His proximity. Just as in the journeys of monarchs, those who hold greater glory accompany their chariots closely, so too does John precede the coming of Christ. Observe how the Lord emphasizes His superiority even through this!"},{"author-name":"Ephraem the Syrian","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88b589fc3e99eb7bb1839_Ephraem%20the%20Syrian.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"What, then, constitutes the splendour of John that distinguishes him above all those born of a woman? Perhaps it is that concerning which it is stated, ‘Behold, I send my angel ... before thee’ (Mal. 3:1, Mk. 1:2). Not only did he bear the title of an angel, but through his actions he proved himself deserving of that title. Upon careful consideration, one can see that his honour equals that of the angels, for he renounced worldly pursuits and aimed to serve the celestial. If one argues that among the twelve prophets one was referred to as My Angel (Mal. 3:1), I would respond that this title was ascribed to him by his parents in the same manner in which others receive names. There is a distinction between a name given by one's parents and an esteemed designation bestowed by God as recognition of one’s actions. If you contend that the prophet was called ‘My angel’ by his parents due to his heavenly way of living, we shall not pursue this argument further. However, the Scriptures affirm concerning John that ‘there is none greater (than he) among those born of women’ (cf. Matt. 11:11). If anyone is holy, they receive glory; if anyone acts righteously, they gain honour; if anyone exhibits integrity, strength, and wisdom, they merit a degree of esteem. Yet, even if all these virtues were united in one individual, they would still fall short of the one whom God cherished and declared to be immensely superior to humanity, standing alongside the angels."},{"author-name":"Anonymous Commentary (Opus Imperfectum)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":4,"exegesis-text":"Consider the honor of John and grasp its significance. It seems appropriate to say that John, as a man who earned the title of angel through his virtuous deeds, shines with greater glory than if he were simply an angel by origin. An angel's status is primarily derived from his inherent nature, whereas one who possesses human nature yet ascends to the realm of angelic purity through divine grace embodies a greater magnificence."},{"author-name":"Cyrill of Alexandria","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88a8ea5c988a4fc073480_Cyrill%20of%20Alexandria.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":5,"exegesis-text":"Do you regard Him as a prophet? Indeed, He is a prophet, and even more than just a prophet. While the prophets predicted the coming of the Messiah before witnessing His arrival, this one embodies both roles. The Saviour demonstrates, in every way, the remarkable discernment of the Forerunner, revealing him to those who proclaim the truth. He Himself affirms this by elevating the Forerunner to a place of great honor, confirming that this man has surpassed the prophets. Furthermore, He illustrates how He aligns the message of the Father with His own words, ensuring that His testimony about him is validated by the Law. He states, \\"This man is of whom it is written, 'Behold, I send My angel before Thy face, and he shall prepare Thy way before Thee.'\\""},{"author-name":"Gregory the Great","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88c2b032f5f6e5effaa54_Gregory%20the%20Great.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":6,"exegesis-text":"Since it has been declared that He was not like a reed tossed by the wind, nor did He wear delicate clothing, indicating that the title of Prophet alone could not suffice for Him, let us reflect on words that do Him honor. It is written, \\"Behold, I send my messenger before your face, who will prepare your way before you\\" (Malachi 3:1). In Greek, the term for angel aligns with the Latin word for messenger. Thus, one who is sent to proclaim the ultimate Judge is aptly referred to as an angel, preserving the dignity of his role in his title. Although the name carries great significance, the life lived must reflect that stature. \\n\\nOh, brethren, if only we could affirm, without incurring condemnation, that those who hold the title of Priesthood are likewise called angels, supported by the Prophet’s declaration: \\"For the lips of a priest should guard knowledge, and people should seek instruction from his mouth, for he is the messenger of the Lord of hosts\\" (Malachi 2:7). It is within your reach to attain this esteemed title as well, should you choose. Each of you, to the best of your ability, by welcoming the divine inspiration, guiding your neighbor away from transgression, and proclaiming the Eternal Kingdom or the consequences of wrongdoing, becomes an angel when you convey the words of the Holy Gospel. \\n\\nNone among you should claim, \\"I am unable to encourage others\\" or \\"I cannot persuade.\\" Do whatever you can, lest you be held accountable for failing to utilize the gifts you have received. One who chose to hide his single talent rather than invest it ended up with nothing. Moreover, it is known that within God's holy tabernacle, according to divine direction, there were not only large basins but also small bowls (Ex. 37). The large basins symbolize profound understanding, while the small bowls refer to limited knowledge. The former, brimming with the pursuit of truth, abundantly nourishes the minds of its listeners. Thus, he offers a great portion through his words. The latter may struggle to articulate his thoughts, yet if he shares as best he can, he provides a taste from the small bowl. \\n\\nTherefore, you who belong to the Tabernacle of God, that is, the Holy Church, if you are unable to present large portions of wisdom, then offer to your neighbors, as much as you can, small servings of the good news through your divine endowment. As you contemplate your journey, inspire others to join you; seek to accompany your fellows on the path of righteousness. When any of you travel to the marketplace or the baths, invite along those whom you believe need the company. Let your earthly endeavors prepare you so that when you approach God, you do so not in solitude. This is why it is written: \\"Let anyone who hears come\\" (Rev. 22:17); thus, those who have sensed love’s call within, transmit the voice of conviction to their neighbors.\\n\\nEven if one cannot provide bread for the impoverished, what remains paramount is the gift of speech that one can bestow. It is more vital to nourish a soul intended for eternal life than to supply corporeal bread to a body destined to perish. Thus, dear brethren, do not withhold the gift of the word from those around you. I urge both you and myself to remain vigilant against frivolous chatter and to steer clear of unnecessary words. As much as we can, let us prevent idle talk from slipping into the wind because the Judge states that for every careless word spoken, people will be accountable on the day of judgment (Matthew 12:36). An idle word lacks either direct benefit or sufficient justification for its relevance.\\n\\nTherefore, let us transform trivial discourse into opportunities for edification; consider how swiftly the moments of this life are fleeting; prepare for the arrival of the formidable Judge. Present Him to the eyes of your heart and instill Him in the hearts of your neighbors, that you, in your efforts to proclaim Him, may be hailed as angels along with John, fulfilled by God Himself, who lives forever and ever. Amen."},{"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":"Following His testimony, He also delivers a prophetic declaration, echoing the words of Malachi (Malachi 3:1). It is spoken as if the Father is addressing the Son, with God designating John as His messenger, either because he proclaimed to the people what had been revealed concerning Christ—the divine message to John, son of Zacharias, in the wilderness (Luke 3:2)—or due to his angelic lifestyle, transcending worldly matters and aspiring towards heavenly pursuits. \\"Before Thy face\\" signifies walking in Your presence, much like a servant appointed to prepare the way ahead of You. The pathway of Christ consists of the souls of individuals to whom the message was intended to precede, as elaborated in chapter three. He holds a status greater than that of a prophet, for he not only beheld the One about whom he foretold in a way that no other prophet did, but he also had the honor of baptizing Him."},{"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":"He was referred to as an angel due to his heavenly and nearly non-physical existence and because he announced the coming of Christ. He paved the path for Christ through his witness and by baptizing with a call to repentance, as true repentance leads to the forgiveness of sins, which is granted by Christ. After John's followers departed, Christ spoke these words to ensure it wouldn’t seem as if He was giving them empty praise. The prophecy mentioned here is from the book of Malachi."},{"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":"Numerous prophets and virtuous individuals longed to witness what John experienced and to hear what he was privileged to hear. Even before his birth, he recognized me; he identified me as the Lamb of God who removes the sins of the world. While the prophets spoke of God's mighty deeds, none were foretold quite like John, who was specifically mentioned by the prophets. As written in Malachi (Malachi 3:1), God the Father declares to God the Son, \\"Behold, I will send my messenger before your face, who will prepare your way and make it ready for you.\\" John served as a divine messenger both throughout his life and in his ministry. Much like the path of kings, where those of greater honor approach their chariots, John appeared right before My arrival."},{"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":"The prophet Malachi writes, \\"Of whom it is written\\" (Malachi 3:1). The original Hebrew text offers a clear context. This same prophecy is echoed in Isaiah (Isaiah 40:3). In Malachi, the Lord declares that He will send a messenger in advance to prepare the path before Him. To clarify the profound meaning of this ancient prophecy, the Lord speaks of the divine messenger sent by God in relation to His arrival, identifying John as this herald. His mission is described as \\"preparing the way,\\" a metaphor for preparing the hearts of the people for the arrival of the Messiah (see Matthew 3:3 for further insight)."},{"author-name":"Gladkow B.I.","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88bf0ceef8c96e09a6521_Gladkow%20B.I..png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"What drew you to witness? Was it the prophet? Indeed, I affirm to you, and even more than a prophet. He surpasses the prophet because God spoke of him through Malachi, saying: ‘Behold, I send my angel before your face, who will prepare your way before you’ (Luke 7:27). If there were prophecies regarding his arrival, and he is the angel heralding the coming of the Messiah, then among those born of women, there is no prophet greater than John the Baptist (Lk. 7:28). Yet, despite this, He who some consider lesser than John is indeed greater than John in the kingdom of God. Thus, John was not merely a reed shaken by the wind, nor was he a man fond of luxury; he was the foremost of all the prophets. This was the perception of the people, drawn to him by his ascetic lifestyle and his bold condemnation of the wicked."},{"author-name":"Paul Matwejewski","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8969f5be0d592d5a10576_Paul%20Matwejewski.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"In referencing the words of the prophet Malachi (Malachi 3:1), the Lord identified the Forerunner as an Angel. This designation stemmed from both His ethereal, almost incorporeal existence and His role in announcing the coming of Christ (Blessed Theophylact)."},{"author-name":"Bogolepow D.P.","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Since John's disciples presented their inquiry about Jesus, those in the presence of Christ may have believed that John, the herald of repentance and the arrival of the Messianic age, had shifted his perspective on Jesus, whom he had unequivocally affirmed as the Messiah. To dispel any uncertainties regarding John, Christ turns the focus to the conscience of each listener and poses a question: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A man who is unstable like a reed swaying in the wind? Or perhaps someone who is overly concerned with worldly matters, changing his stance based on personal gain? Certainly not! What you witnessed in John is that of a prophet, and even more, he embodies the role of the forerunner foretold by Malachi. Truly, I say to you, among those born of women, there has not arisen anyone greater than John the Baptist. When Christ refers to the 'least', He indicates Himself; by the least, He is referencing the lesser ranks. The aim of Christ’s brief statement was to ensure that the high regard for John did not lead His audience to elevate the Forerunner above the Messiah Himself."}]}
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