Matthew 12:47
What does Matthew 12:47 mean?
A plain-English look at Matthew 12:47 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Matthew 12:47 means
Someone points out to Jesus that his mother and brothers are outside wanting to speak with him. The remark likely reflects concern or an attempt to connect Jesus with his family. It prompts Jesus to respond publicly about the primacy of spiritual bonds. The verse simply records the messenger’s observation, setting the stage for Jesus’ teaching on true kinship in verses 48–50.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000And one said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren stand without, seeking to speak to thee.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Then one said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to speak with thee.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901And one said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren stand without, seeking to speak to thee.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949And one said to him, See, your mother and your brothers are outside, desiring to have talk with you.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862and one said to him, `Lo, thy mother and thy brethren do stand without, seeking to speak to thee.'
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752And one said unto him: Behold thy mother and thy brethren stand without, seeking thee.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890Then one said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren are standing without, seeking to speak to thee.
Context
This is the immediate report of the family’s presence after verse 46. It gives narrative momentum to Jesus’ forthcoming response. The crowd and the family are both present, providing witness to Jesus’ redefinition of family: his discipleship-based community will be his true kin.
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