Continuing my study of Matthew 16, I came across a verse that had me stumped for longer than I'd like to admit...
Jesus says:
“Truly I tell you, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see the Son of Man coming in His kingdom.” — Matthew 16:28
This passage is often used by skeptics and critics to argue that Jesus was wrong — or even that He lied.
The argument goes something like:
“Jesus predicted His final return during the lifetime of His disciples, yet it never happened... How can we trust His prophetic words?"
At first glance, I understand why someone might ask that question.
But there is a major problem with this interpretation:
It ignores what happens next.
The very next event in Matthew is the Transfiguration.
Just six days later, Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a mountain.
And for a brief moment, the veil of God's kingdom is pulled back.
They see Christ in His glory.
His face shines like the sun.
His clothes become white as light.
They receive a preview of the King in His Kingdom.
And notice Jesus’ words carefully:
“Some who are standing here.”
Not all.
Some.
And that is exactly what happened.
Three disciples witnessed a glimpse of His divine glory.
This is also a great reminder that the Bible was not originally written with chapter numbers and verse divisions.
It was written as a continuous message—likely on a lengthy scroll—and these references were added later to help us navigate the text.
But sometimes these divisions can cause us to separate thoughts that were never meant to be separated.
Many alleged "contradictions" disappear if we simply keep reading.
The deeper I study Scripture, the more I discover that many difficult passages are not sufficient reasons to walk away from God’s Word—
they are invitations to study it more deeply.
— Drew
P.S.
If you can think of a sufficient reason to walk away from God's word, please hit reply!
I'm happy to start a conversation 🙂
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