Devine Scripture

Matthew 8:12

What does Matthew 8:12 mean?

A plain-English look at Matthew 8:12 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Matthew 8:12 means

In a stark contrast to the inclusion of Gentiles, Jesus warns that "the sons of the kingdom," referring to the Jewish people who had a covenantal right to the Kingdom, would be cast out. This exclusion would result in "outer darkness," a vivid image representing torment, separation from God, and deep regret, characterized by "weeping and gnashing of teeth." This emphasizes that outward privilege does not guarantee salvation, but only genuine faith does.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

but the sons of the kingdom shall be cast forth into the outer darkness: there shall be the weeping and the gnashing of teeth.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

but the sons of the kingdom shall be cast forth into the outer darkness: there shall be the weeping and the gnashing of teeth.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

But the sons of the kingdom will be put out into the dark, and there will be weeping and cries of pain.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

but the sons of the reign shall be cast forth to the outer darkness--there shall be the weeping and the gnashing of the teeth.'

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into the exterior darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

but the sons of the kingdom shall be cast out into the outer darkness: there shall be the weeping and the gnashing of teeth.

Context

This verse delivers a sobering warning that directly contrasts the promise of Gentile inclusion in the previous verse. It underscores that spiritual privilege does not guarantee salvation, setting a serious tone regarding accountability and the true nature of God's Kingdom. This teaching precedes the immediate fulfillment of the centurion's request, demonstrating Jesus’ authority over spiritual realities and physical healing.

v.11And I say unto you, that many shall come from the east and the west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven:

v.12This passage

v.13And Jesus said unto the centurion, Go thy way; as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. And the servant was healed in that hour.

Cross references

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

  • Matthew 13:50

    and shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be the weeping and the gnashing of teeth.

  • 2 Peter 2:4

    For if God spared not angels when they sinned, but cast them down to hell, and committed them to pits of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment;

  • Acts 3:25

    Ye are the sons of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with your fathers, saying unto Abraham, And in thy seed shall all the families of the earth be blessed.

  • Jude 1:13

    wild waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame; wandering stars, for whom the blackness of darkness hath been reserved for ever.

  • Matthew 3:9

    and think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.

  • Matthew 24:51

    and shall cut him asunder, and appoint his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be the weeping and the gnashing of teeth.

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