Verse (Click for Chapter) New International Version From that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” New Living Translation From then on Jesus began to preach, “Repent of your sins and turn to God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near.” English Standard Version From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Berean Standard Bible From that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.” Berean Literal Bible From that time Jesus began to proclaim and to say, “Repent, for the kingdom of the heavens has drawn near.” King James Bible From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. New King James Version From that time Jesus began to preach and to say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” New American Standard Bible From that time Jesus began to preach and say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” NASB 1995 From that time Jesus began to preach and say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” NASB 1977 From that time Jesus began to preach and say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Legacy Standard Bible From that time Jesus began to preach and say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Amplified Bible From that time Jesus began to preach and say, “Repent [change your inner self—your old way of thinking, regret past sins, live your life in a way that proves repentance; seek God’s purpose for your life], for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Berean Annotated Bible From that time on Jesus (YHWH saves) began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near. Christian Standard Bible From then on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, because the kingdom of heaven has come near.” Holman Christian Standard Bible From then on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, because the kingdom of heaven has come near!” American Standard Version From that time began Jesus to preach, and to say, Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Contemporary English Version Then Jesus started preaching, "Turn back to God! The kingdom of heaven will soon be here." English Revised Version From that time began Jesus to preach, and to say, Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. GOD'S WORD® Translation From then on, Jesus began to tell people, "Turn to God and change the way you think and act, because the kingdom of heaven is near!" Good News Translation From that time Jesus began to preach his message: "Turn away from your sins, because the Kingdom of heaven is near!" International Standard Version From then on, Jesus began to announce, "Repent, because the kingdom from heaven is near!" NET Bible From that time Jesus began to preach this message: "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near." New Heart English Bible From that time, Jesus began to proclaim, and to say, "Repent. For the kingdom of heaven is near." Webster's Bible Translation From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Weymouth New Testament From that time Jesus began to preach. "Repent," He said, "for the Kingdom of the Heavens is now close at hand." Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleFrom that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.” World English Bible From that time, Jesus began to preach, and to say, “Repent! For the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand.” Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionFrom that time Jesus began to proclaim and to say, “Convert, for the kingdom of the heavens has come near.” Berean Literal Bible From that time Jesus began to proclaim and to say, “Repent, for the kingdom of the heavens has drawn near.” Young's Literal Translation From that time began Jesus to proclaim and to say, 'Reform ye, for come nigh hath the reign of the heavens.' Smith's Literal Translation From then Jesus began to proclaim, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of the heavens has drawn near. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleFrom that time Jesus began to preach, and to say: Do penance, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Catholic Public Domain Version From that time, Jesus began to preach, and to say: “Repent. For the kingdom of heaven has drawn near.” New American Bible From that time on, Jesus began to preach and say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” New Revised Standard Version From that time Jesus began to proclaim, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleFrom that time Jesus began to preach and to say, Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is coming near. Aramaic Bible in Plain English From then on, Yeshua began to preach and to say, “Return to God, for The Kingdom of Heaven has come near.” NT Translations Anderson New TestamentFrom that time Jesus began to preach and to say: Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Godbey New Testament From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Haweis New Testament From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is approaching. Mace New Testament from that time Jesus began to preach, "Repent, said he, for the kingdom of the Messiah draws nigh." Weymouth New Testament From that time Jesus began to preach. "Repent," He said, "for the Kingdom of the Heavens is now close at hand." Worrell New Testament From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Worsley New Testament From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Additional Translations ... Audio Bible Context Jesus Begins His Ministry…16the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death, a light has dawned.” 17From that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.” 18As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, He saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen.… Cross References From that time on Matthew 16:21 From that time on Jesus began to show His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders, chief priests, and scribes, and that He must be killed and on the third day be raised to life. Luke 16:16 The Law and the Prophets were proclaimed until John. Since that time, the gospel of the kingdom of God is being preached, and everyone is forcing his way into it. Mark 1:14 After the arrest of John, Jesus went into Galilee and proclaimed the gospel of God. Jesus began to preach, Matthew 11:1 After Jesus had finished instructing His twelve disciples, He went on from there to teach and preach in their cities. Mark 1:39 So He went throughout Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and driving out demons. Luke 4:44 And He continued to preach in the synagogues of Judea. “Repent, Matthew 3:2 and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.” Acts 3:19 Repent, then, and turn back, so that your sins may be wiped away, Acts 17:30 Although God overlooked the ignorance of earlier times, He now commands all people everywhere to repent. for the kingdom of heaven Matthew 13:44 The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and in his joy he went and sold all he had and bought that field. Matthew 13:11 He replied, “The knowledge of the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. Matthew 5:3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. is near.” Luke 21:31 So also, when you see these things happening, know that the kingdom of God is near. Luke 10:9 Heal the sick who are there and tell them, ‘The kingdom of God is near you.’ Mark 1:15 “The time is fulfilled,” He said, “and the kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe in the gospel!” Mark 1:15 “The time is fulfilled,” He said, “and the kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe in the gospel!” Treasury of Scripture From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. that. Mark 1:14 Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, Repent. Matthew 3:2 And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Matthew 9:13 But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. Matthew 10:7 And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. kingdom. Matthew 11:12 And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force. Matthew 13:9,11,24,47 Who hath ears to hear, let him hear… Matthew 25:1 Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. Jump to Previous Close Drawn Hand Hearts Heaven Heavens Jesus Kingdom Nigh Preach Preaching Proclaim Reform Reign Repent Sin Time TurnedJump to Next Close Drawn Hand Hearts Heaven Heavens Jesus Kingdom Nigh Preach Preaching Proclaim Reform Reign Repent Sin Time TurnedMatthew 4 1. Jesus, fasting forty days, 3. is tempted by the devil and ministered unto by angels. 12. He dwells in Capernaum; 17. begins to preach; 18. calls Peter and Andrew, 21. James and John; 23. teaches and heals all the diseased. From that time on This phrase marks a significant transition in Jesus' ministry. It follows His baptism by John and His temptation in the wilderness. This period signifies the beginning of His public ministry in Galilee, a region known for its diverse population and strategic location, making it an ideal place for spreading His message. Jesus began to preach Repent for the kingdom of heaven is near Persons / Places / Events 1. JesusThe central figure in this passage, Jesus is beginning His public ministry. He is the Son of God, the Messiah, who brings the message of repentance and the nearness of God's kingdom. 2. Galilee The region where Jesus begins His ministry. It is significant as a place of both Jewish and Gentile populations, symbolizing the universal reach of Jesus' message. 3. Repentance A key theme in Jesus' preaching. The Greek word used here is "metanoe?," which means to change one's mind or purpose, indicating a profound transformation of heart and life. 4. Kingdom of Heaven A central theme in Jesus' teaching, referring to God's sovereign rule and reign. It is both a present reality and a future hope. 5. John the Baptist Although not directly mentioned in this verse, John’s earlier call to repentance sets the stage for Jesus’ ministry. John’s message and Jesus’ message are closely linked. Teaching Points The Urgency of RepentanceJesus' message begins with a call to repentance, indicating its foundational importance in the Christian life. Believers are called to continually examine their hearts and turn away from sin. The Nearness of the Kingdom The kingdom of heaven is both a present reality and a future hope. Christians are to live in light of this kingdom, embodying its values and priorities in their daily lives. Transformation of Mind and Heart Repentance involves a deep, inward change. It is not merely about feeling sorry for sin but about a complete reorientation of one's life towards God. Continuity of God's Message The call to repentance is consistent throughout Scripture, from the prophets to John the Baptist, to Jesus, and the apostles. This continuity underscores the unchanging nature of God's call to His people. Living in Expectation Believers are to live with an expectation of God's kingdom, actively participating in its advancement through their actions, words, and witness. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of Matthew 4:17?2. What does "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near" mean for us today? 3. How can we implement repentance in our daily Christian walk? 4. Why is repentance crucial for entering the kingdom of heaven? 5. How does Matthew 4:17 connect with Old Testament calls to repentance? 6. What practical steps can we take to live out Matthew 4:17's message? 7. What does "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near" mean in Matthew 4:17? 8. How does Matthew 4:17 define the concept of repentance? 9. Why is the kingdom of heaven described as "near" in Matthew 4:17? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Matthew 4? 11. What defines the Vineyard Movement? 12. What is the Gospel of the Kingdom about? 13. What defines Kingdom Theology? 14. Acts 3:19–21: Why has the promised “time of restoration” not occurred despite nearly two millennia passing? What Does Matthew 4:17 Mean From that time on• Matthew pinpoints a transition: after John the Baptist’s arrest (Matthew 4:12) and Jesus’ victory over Satan’s temptations (Matthew 4:1-11), the public phase of Jesus’ earthly ministry launches. • Scripture repeatedly marks turning points with the phrase “from that time” (Matthew 16:21; 26:16), underscoring God’s sovereign timetable. • Mark 1:14-15 echoes the moment: “After John was imprisoned, Jesus went into Galilee and proclaimed the gospel of God.” The same divine plan continues unbroken from prophets to Messiah. Jesus began to preach • Jesus’ first recorded activity is preaching—a herald’s announcement from the King Himself (cf. Luke 4:18-19). • Preaching differs from casual conversation; it carries authority (Matthew 7:28-29) and demands response (Romans 10:14-17). • His message is consistent wherever He goes (Matthew 9:35), revealing God’s heart for every town, village, and individual. Repent • “Repent” is the opening word of the gospel call (Matthew 3:2 with John; Acts 2:38 with Peter; Acts 17:30 with Paul). • Repentance involves: – A heartfelt turning away from sin (Isaiah 55:7). – A decisive turning toward God and obedience (Luke 3:8-14). – Ongoing fruit that proves the change is real (Acts 26:20). • God’s patience aims at repentance, not delay (2 Peter 3:9), making this command an act of mercy. For the kingdom of heaven is near • “Kingdom of heaven” highlights God’s reign breaking into earthly history through the King, Jesus (Daniel 2:44; Matthew 12:28). • “Is near” means the rule of God has drawn close—present in Christ yet awaiting final consummation (Luke 17:20-21; Revelation 11:15). • The announcement presses urgency: choose citizenship in God’s kingdom now, before its final arrival in power and judgment (Matthew 25:31-34). summary Matthew 4:17 records the inaugural proclamation of Jesus: history’s pivotal moment when God’s long-promised kingdom arrives in the person of the King. With divine authority He commands repentance, inviting every hearer to turn from sin and enter His righteous reign—now present and soon to be fully revealed. (17) From that time Jesus began to preach.--We have in these words St. Matthew's record of the commencement of our Lord's Galilean ministry. It is important to remember that it had been preceded by a ministry of some months in Judaea; that that ministry had been outwardly like that of the Baptist (John 4:1); and that He had withdrawn from it upon John's imprisonment because He knew that His own growing fame had attracted the notice of the Pharisees. Taking the data given by John 2:13; John 2:23; John 5:1; and John 6:4, we are able to fix the time of His first appearance as a prophet in His own country in the autumn or winter of the interval between the Passover of A.D. 26 and that of A.D. 27.Of the usual method of our Lord's synagogue-preaching, Luke 4:17-21 gives us a representative example. To read the prophetic lesson for the day, to make that His text, to proclaim the necessity of repentance and the good news of forgiveness following on repentance, to bear His witness that "the kingdom of heaven" was not in the far-off future, but nigh at hand, in the midst of them--this we must believe was, at this time, as ever, the substance of His teaching and preaching. (See Notes on Matthew 4:23.) . . . Verse 17-16:20. - THE FIRST STAGE OF CHRIST'S WORK AND TEACHING. Verse 17 - The proclamation. From that time; ἀπὸ τότε (elsewhere in the New Testament only Matthew 16:21; Matthew 26:16; Luke 16:16); i.e. from the time of his residence in Capernaum (ver. 13). Apparently our Lord, after the baptism, went to John (vide supra, ver. 1), then retired to Galilee, going first to Nazareth, then finally leaving it as his home for Capernaum. At Caper-nauru his public activity begins. From that time; the phrase expresses not merely "at that time," but "from that time," as the starting-point. Henceforth this was to be his message, even though its form might be altered. The phrase marks, as in Matthew 16:21, the commencement of a new stage in his life. His earlier work with John the Baptist is not included in the oral Gospel, probably because the twelve were not yet joined to him in formal and continuous adhesion. Repent, etc. His words are exactly the same as the Baptist's (Matthew 3:2), with whom, indeed, he had been very lately associated. There is no evidence that he meant by them anything else than the Baptist meant (cf. Introduction, p. 24.). It is very intelligible that quite early (Old Syriac) an attempt should be made to harmonize this summary of his preaching rather with that of his disciples (Matthew 10:7).Parallel Commentaries ... Greek FromἈπὸ (Apo) Preposition Strong's 575: From, away from. A primary particle; 'off, ' i.e. Away, in various senses. that time [on] τότε (tote) Adverb Strong's 5119: Then, at that time. From ho and hote; the when, i.e. At the time that. Jesus Ἰησοῦς (Iēsous) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular Strong's 2424: Of Hebrew origin; Jesus, the name of our Lord and two other Israelites. began ἤρξατο (ērxato) Verb - Aorist Indicative Middle - 3rd Person Singular Strong's 756: To begin. Middle voice of archo; to commence. to preach, κηρύσσειν (kēryssein) Verb - Present Infinitive Active Strong's 2784: To proclaim, herald, preach. Of uncertain affinity; to herald, especially divine truth. “Repent, Μετανοεῖτε (Metanoeite) Verb - Present Imperative Active - 2nd Person Plural Strong's 3340: From meta and noieo; to think differently or afterwards, i.e. Reconsider. for γὰρ (gar) Conjunction Strong's 1063: For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason. the ἡ (hē) Article - Nominative Feminine Singular Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. kingdom βασιλεία (basileia) Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular Strong's 932: From basileus; properly, royalty, i.e. rule, or a realm. of τῶν (tōn) Article - Genitive Masculine Plural Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. heaven οὐρανῶν (ouranōn) Noun - Genitive Masculine Plural Strong's 3772: Perhaps from the same as oros; the sky; by extension, heaven; by implication, happiness, power, eternity; specially, the Gospel. is near.” ἤγγικεν (ēngiken) Verb - Perfect Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular Strong's 1448: Trans: I bring near; intrans: I come near, approach. From eggus; to make near, i.e. approach. Links Matthew 4:17 NIVMatthew 4:17 NLT Matthew 4:17 ESV Matthew 4:17 NASB Matthew 4:17 KJV Matthew 4:17 BibleApps.com Matthew 4:17 Biblia Paralela Matthew 4:17 Chinese Bible Matthew 4:17 French Bible Matthew 4:17 Catholic Bible NT Gospels: Matthew 4:17 From that time Jesus began to preach (Matt. Mat Mt) |



