Matthew 13:9

Afrikaans DB 2006 (Die Boodskap)

“Asseblief, luister mooi!”

What Does This Mean?

Jesus says in Matthew 13:9, 'Who has ears to hear, let him hear.' This means that those who are willing and able to listen should pay attention to what He is saying. The key message is about being attentive and receptive to Jesus' teachings.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a special toy that can only be heard by those who really want to listen. Just like that, Jesus wants everyone to use their ears not just for hearing sounds but also for understanding His important words.

Historical Background

The verse is written in the Gospel of Matthew, likely around AD 80-90. It was addressed to a mixed audience including both Jewish and Gentile followers of Jesus. The cultural setting was one where oral teaching was common, making attentive listening crucial for understanding spiritual truths.

Living It Out Today

In today’s world, this verse can remind us to focus on important conversations instead of getting distracted by our phones or other things. For example, when your teacher is explaining a new concept in class, really listen and try to understand it fully.

Topics

• listening
• attentiveness
• spiritual understanding
• teaching and learning
• receptivity
• Jesus' teachings

Related Verses

• Mark 4:9
• Luke 8:8
• Ezekiel 3:27
• Isaiah 6:9-10
• John 10:27

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is speaking in Matthew 13:9?

Jesus is the speaker, addressing those who are willing to listen and understand His parables and teachings.

What does 'ears to hear' mean in this context?

'Ears to hear' means being open and ready to truly comprehend Jesus’ words. It's not just about physical hearing but a willingness to grasp spiritual truths.

Can you give an example of how to apply Matthew 13:9 in a modern context?

In a meeting or class, this verse can encourage us to focus our attention on the speaker and try to understand the message fully instead of letting distractions pull our mind away.

How does Matthew 13:9 relate to other teachings in the Bible?

This verse is similar to others that emphasize understanding and receptivity, such as Isaiah 6:9-10 where God speaks about people closing their ears to His message.