Devine Scripture

Matthew 13:21

What does Matthew 13:21 mean?

A plain-English look at Matthew 13:21 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Matthew 13:21 means

Verse 21 clarifies that the shallow believer endures for a while but stumbles when tribulation or persecution arises because of the word. The emphasis is on testing: suffering linked to discipleship exposes superficial faith. The term ‘stumbleth’ indicates a falling away or lapse in faith triggered by hardship. Jesus warns that true discipleship includes endurance through opposition; those who cannot persevere prove their faith was not deeply rooted.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

yet hath he not root in himself, but endureth for a while; and when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, straightway he stumbleth.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

yet hath he not root in himself, but endureth for a while; and when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, straightway he stumbleth.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

But having no root in himself, he goes on for a time; and when trouble comes or pain, because of the word, he quickly becomes full of doubts.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

and he hath not root in himself, but is temporary, and persecution or tribulation having happened because of the word, immediately he is stumbled.

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

Yet hath he not root in himself, but is only for a time: and when there ariseth tribulation and persecution because of the word, he is presently scandalized.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

but has no root in himself, but is for a time only; and when tribulation or persecution happens on account of the word, he is immediately offended.

Context

Following the description of shallow reception, this verse explains the consequence—failure under pressure. It reinforces the theme that the word’s effect depends on the hearer’s depth. The next explanation will contrast another obstacle—worldly cares and riches.

v.20And he that was sown upon the rocky places, this is he that heareth the word, and straightway with joy receiveth it;

v.21This passage

v.22And he that was sown among the thorns, this is he that heareth the word; and the care of the world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.

Cross references

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

  • Matthew 7:26

    And every one that heareth these words of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, who built his house upon the sand:

  • Mark 13:12

    And brother shall deliver up brother to death, and the father his child; and children shall rise up against parents, and cause them to be put to death.

  • Hebrews 10:35

    Cast not away therefore your boldness, which hath great recompense of reward.

  • Revelation 2:13

    I know where thou dwellest, even where Satan’s throne is; and thou holdest fast my name, and didst not deny my faith, even in the days of Antipas my witness, my faithful one, who was killed among you, where Satan dwelleth.

  • 2 Timothy 1:15

    This thou knowest, that all that are in Asia turned away from me; of whom are Phygelus and Hermogenes.

  • Galatians 5:6

    For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth anything, nor uncircumcision; but faith working through love.

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