Devine Scripture

Matthew 11:9

What does Matthew 11:9 mean?

A plain-English look at Matthew 11:9 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Matthew 11:9 means

Jesus' third rhetorical question probed even deeper, asking if the people went out to see a prophet. He then affirmed unequivocally that John was indeed a prophet, adding with emphasis that he was "much more than a prophet." This statement elevates John beyond the traditional understanding of a prophet, anticipating his unique role in preparing the way for the Messiah.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

But wherefore went ye out? to see a prophet? Yea, I say unto you, and much more than a prophet.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

But what went ye out for to see? A prophet? yea, I say unto you, and more than a prophet.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

But wherefore went ye out? to see a prophet? Yea, I say unto you, and much more than a prophet.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

But why did you go out? to see a prophet? Yes, I say to you, and more than a prophet.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

`But what went ye out to see? --a prophet? yes, I say to you, and more than a prophet,

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

But what went you out to see? A prophet? Yea I tell you, and more than a prophet.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

But what went ye out to see? a prophet? Yea, I say to you, and more than a prophet:

Context

This verse culminates Jesus' series of rhetorical questions about John's identity, finally affirming him as a prophet. The declaration that John is "much more than a prophet" is a critical turning point, leading directly into the next verse where Jesus will explain by what measure John exceeds the typical prophetic office, connecting him to Old Testament prophecy.

v.8But what went ye out to see? a man clothed in soft raiment? Behold, they that wear soft raiment are in kings’ houses.

v.9This passage

v.10This is he, of whom it is written, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, Who shall prepare thy way before thee.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Matthew 17:12

    but I say unto you, that Elijah is come already, and they knew him not, but did unto him whatsoever they would. Even so shall the Son of man also suffer of them.

  • Luke 1:76

    Yea and thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Most High: For thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to make ready his ways;

  • Mark 9:11

    And they asked him, saying, How is it that the scribes say that Elijah must first come?

  • Matthew 21:24

    And Jesus answered and said unto them, I also will ask you one question, which if ye tell me, I likewise will tell you by what authority I do these things.

  • Matthew 14:5

    And when he would have put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they counted him as a prophet.

  • Luke 1:15

    For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and he shall drink no wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb.

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