Matthew 12:39

Arabic Bible (GNA) Good News Arabic - 1993 (الترجمة العربية المشتركة)

فأجابَهُم: «جِيلٌ شرّيرٌ فاسِقٌ يَطلُبُ آيةً، ولن يكونَ لَه سِوى آيةِ النبيّ يونانَ.

What Does This Mean?

Jesus is speaking to some people who want a miracle. He says they are asking for a sign because they have done wrong things and aren't truly seeking God. The only sign he will give them is the one about Jonah, which means Jesus dying and coming back to life.

Explained for Children

Imagine if your friend kept asking you to jump off the roof to prove you're brave. That wouldn’t be a smart thing for them to ask, right? Jesus says some people are like that—asking him to do big tricks instead of just believing in who he is.

Historical Background

Matthew wrote this book as part of the New Testament, likely around AD 80-90. The audience was mainly Jewish Christians and those curious about Jesus' teachings. In their culture, signs or miracles were expected from prophets to prove they spoke for God.

Living It Out Today

If you have friends who always want proof before believing in something important, like your values or faith, remember this verse. Sometimes actions speak louder than words, just as Jesus’ resurrection proved His message was true.

Topics

• faith
• miracles
• signs
• resurrection
• prophets
• belief

Related Verses

• Jonah 1:17
• Luke 11:29-30
• Matthew 16:4
• John 2:18-19
• Acts 2:22

Frequently Asked Questions

Why didn't Jesus give them any other sign besides Jonah's?

Jesus believed that his resurrection would be the ultimate proof of who he was. He felt no further signs were needed and that this one would be enough for those with faith.

What does it mean to be an evil and adulterous generation?

It means a group of people who have strayed from God's ways and are seeking proof rather than trust. Jesus used these terms to describe the skepticism he encountered among some religious leaders.

How is Jonah’s story related to this sign?

Jonah was in the belly of a fish for three days, just as Jesus would be buried and then rise on the third day. This parallel serves as a powerful symbol of resurrection.

Why did people ask for signs in those times?

In biblical times, signs or miracles were often seen as proof that someone truly spoke for God. People sought tangible evidence to validate their beliefs and the teachings they heard.