Matthew 11:23

Hebrew (HHH) 2009 (Habrit Hakhadasha/Haderekh)

ואת כפר-נחום, החושבת את שישבחו וירוממו אותך עד השמים? לגיהינום תורדי! אילו נעשו בסדום הנפלאות שחוללתי בך, הייתה סדום קיימת עד היום!

What Does This Mean?

In Matthew 11:23, Jesus is speaking and warning the city of Capernaum that it will face severe judgment if its inhabitants do not respond to his miracles with faith and repentance. He says that even Sodom would have been spared destruction had it witnessed such mighty works.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a toy box full of amazing toys, but instead of being grateful and playing nicely, you just ignore them or break them. That's like what the people in Capernaum did with Jesus' miracles. He says they'll face big trouble because of it.

Historical Background

This verse is part of Matthew’s Gospel, written around AD 80-90 for a primarily Jewish-Christian audience. Capernaum was an important city where Jesus often taught and performed many miracles.

Living It Out Today

Today, this verse can remind us that we must not take blessings lightly. If someone has shown you kindness or offered help, it's like being given the chance to be better. Ignore these chances at your own peril.

Topics

• judgment
• faith
• repentance
• miracles
• salvation
• gratitude

Related Verses

• Luke 10:13
• Isaiah 14:12-15
• Revelation 3:16
• Jeremiah 22:28-29
• Matthew 10:15

Recommended Reading

Commentary Matthew Commentaries → Get This Bible HHH Study Bible →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of mentioning Sodom?

Mentioning Sodom emphasizes how severe Capernaum's rejection was. Even the notoriously wicked city of Sodom would have repented if it had seen Jesus' miracles.

How can we avoid Capernaum's fate in our lives?

By recognizing and appreciating God’s blessings and responding with faith, gratitude, and a willingness to change for the better, just as those who witnessed Jesus’ miracles should have done.

Why was Capernaum exalted unto heaven?

Capernaum was considered blessed because it received many of Jesus' teachings and miracles. However, its inhabitants failed to appreciate these gifts properly.

What kind of works did Jesus do in Capernaum?

Jesus performed numerous healings and taught extensively there. The verse suggests that these acts were so powerful they could have saved even Sodom had it witnessed them.