In Matthew 17:22–23, Jesus foretells His death and resurrection to His disciples, sharing profound insights into the events that are to come.
When truth is hard, hope must be louder, much like Jesus did when He told of His approaching sacrifice and His subsequent triumph over death.
In Matthew 17:22–23, Jesus again reveals the destiny He is walking toward—His betrayal, suffering, and ultimate victory over death. Here, He speaks earnestly about events like His own death and resurrection.
Matthew 17:22–23 (NASB 2020)
22 And while they were gathering together in Galilee, Jesus said to them, “The Son of Man is going to be handed over to men; 23 and they will kill Him, and He will be raised on the third day.” And they were deeply grieved.
Who Was Jesus Speaking To?
- His disciples, personally and privately
- Future readers, who would look back with the clarity of resurrection
What Happened?
- Jesus clearly foretold His betrayal, death, and resurrection, revealing His foresight about His future.
- The disciples heard the truth, but grief clouded their understanding
- This was the second time He shared this news with them (see Matthew 16:21)
The Mood: Heavy, Honest, Hopeful
- There was sorrow, but Jesus didn’t hide the truth of His impending death.
- There was grief, but also a glimmer of resurrection
- The disciples focused on loss, but Jesus was pointing to life
The Principle: Truth and Grief Can Coexist
- Jesus doesn’t sugarcoat the path of suffering
- Real faith embraces real hardship
- The promise of resurrection is not always immediately comforting, but it is eternally true
Audience Response (Then)
- The disciples were deeply grieved as they tried to process Jesus’ revelations about His own death and resurrection.
- There’s no sign they responded with questions or hope
- Their sorrow was real, and Jesus didn’t rebuke them for it
What This Means for Us in 2025
We often get stuck in the bad news and forget the promise of the ultimate victory Jesus has foretold, just as He spoke of His resurrection.
- Jesus prepared His followers for painful seasons
- Grief is not a lack of faith—but don’t stop there
- Every sorrow surrendered to Jesus is met with resurrection hope
Action Steps for Today
- Face hard truths with Jesus. Don’t run from them.
- Let grief speak, but let hope answer.
- Lean into resurrection promises. Jesus didn’t stop at death.
- Encourage someone who’s grieving. Be a light for them.
- Trust God’s plan—even when it includes suffering.
Final Prayer
Jesus, thank You for being honest with Your disciples, and with me. Teach me to trust You when the road includes pain. Let my faith grow deeper as I walk through grief with You, much like You prepared for Your own death and resurrection. And remind me, again and again, that resurrection is coming. Amen.
Grief may be real, but resurrection is certain.
