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Matthew 11:12
Verse
Context
Jesus Testifies about John
11Truly I tell you, among those born of women there has risen no one greater than John the Baptist. Yet even the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. 12From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has been subject to violence, and the violent lay claim to it.13For all the Prophets and the Law prophesied until John.
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- John Gill
- Tyndale
John Gill Bible Commentary
For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John. These words are to be considered in connection with Mat 11:11 and are a further proof of John's being greater than any of the prophets; because all the inspired writers and prophets, who were before him, prophesied of the Messiah as to come; and either spoke of him in obscure terms, or represented him under dark shadows and figures: whereas John spake of him as already come, and in plain terms, and directed to his very person; and since his time, there have been no prophecies concerning the Messiah and his kingdom; vision and prophecy are now sealed up; all which are acknowledged by the Jews themselves, who (b) say, , "all the prophets did not prophesy but to, or of the days of the Messiah". This was the subject, and these the limits of their prophecies; for they own (c), that "from the day that the temple was destroyed, , "prophecy was taken away from the prophets".'' Since that time, they confess they have had no prophet (d), and that they are not able to observe their signs. (b) T. Bab. Beracot, fol. 34. 2. Sabbat, fol. 63. 1. Sanhedrim, fol. 99. 1. (c) T. Bava Bathra, fol. 12. 1. (d) Abarbinel in Dan. fol. 63. 4.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
11:12 the Kingdom of Heaven has been forcefully advancing: Or the Kingdom of Heaven has suffered from violence. These alternatives reflect either a positive or negative nuance of the Greek verb. In Luke 16:16, a different verb (“preached”) makes it a clearly positive statement. • violent people are attacking it: This phrase may also have a positive or negative sense. If negative, it might refer to those who imprisoned John (see Matt 11:2; 14:1-12), and attacking might mean either that they were trying to attack the Kingdom but were unable to thwart God’s sovereign plans, or that they were attacking it by persecuting its members. In Luke 16:16 this statement has the positive sense that they were “eager to get in” and were forcefully laying claim to the Kingdom through radical trust and obedience.
Matthew 11:12
Jesus Testifies about John
11Truly I tell you, among those born of women there has risen no one greater than John the Baptist. Yet even the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. 12From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has been subject to violence, and the violent lay claim to it.13For all the Prophets and the Law prophesied until John.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Prodigal Church
By B.H. Clendennen5.2K47:29LukewarmnessMAT 11:12MAT 14:25LUK 15:13ACT 2:2ACT 2:411TI 4:1JUD 1:3In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of the prodigal son from the Bible. He compares the prodigal son to the state of the church, describing how it has become impoverished and compromised by the world. The preacher emphasizes the importance of turning away from worldly ways and returning to God. He highlights the love and forgiveness of God, using the example of the prodigal son's father welcoming him back with open arms. The sermon encourages the church to repent and seek a renewed relationship with God.
A Time to Cry
By David Legge4.9K39:46PSA 74:1PSA 74:9PSA 74:13PSA 74:19PSA 74:23MAT 11:12In this sermon, the speaker laments the current state of society, where the preaching of the word of God is disregarded and mocked. The speaker questions the absence of divine interventions and miracles in people's lives, as well as the lack of conviction of sin. The people feel abandoned by God and helpless against the advancing enemy. The speaker urges the audience to take action and not remain passive, emphasizing the need for God to vindicate Himself and restore His presence among His people.
Five Steps to Genuine Revival
By Ian Paisley2.8K27:31HAG 1:5HAG 1:7MAT 6:33MAT 11:12MRK 11:24LUK 14:23ACT 6:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of prayer and learning how to pray effectively. He urges believers to pray with fervor and passion, using prayer as a weapon against the enemy and to set free those who are captive. The preacher also highlights the significance of the cross and the sacrifice of Jesus, urging listeners to hate sin and the world because of its role in putting Jesus on the cross. He then references the Book of Haggai, specifically verses 7 and 8, calling believers to consider their ways and prioritize their Christian life. The sermon concludes with a reminder that divine power is necessary to accomplish God's work and that believers should rely on God's power rather than their own abilities.
From Babylon to Jerusalem - (Ezra) ch.5 & 6
By Zac Poonen2.4K1:00:34From Babylon To JerusalemEZR 4:4EZR 4:23MAT 11:12MAT 16:18MAT 18:18MAT 18:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being spiritually violent in pursuing God's purposes. He references Matthew 11:12, where Jesus says that the kingdom of heaven suffers violence and violent men take it by force. The preacher highlights that believers often fight for their own rights and privileges, but fail to be spiritually violent in advancing God's kingdom and building His church. He uses the example of the Jews in the book of Ezra, who faced opposition in building the temple and allowed the enemy to triumph for 16 years. The preacher encourages believers to not be passive, but to actively pursue God's purposes and not settle for just the foundational aspects of the faith.
Holy Violence
By C.H. Spurgeon2.4K40:51MAT 3:1MAT 11:12In this sermon, the preacher passionately expresses his desire to be more earnest in his preaching of the word of God. He acknowledges his own sinful nature and the possibility of being condemned to hell if he does not receive God's mercy. The preacher emphasizes the urgency of escaping hell and the need for intense prayer and effort to avoid damnation. He uses the analogy of a man running with all his might to illustrate the determination required to overcome the adversaries in the spiritual journey. The sermon also references John Bunyan's "Pilgrim's Progress" to depict the beauty and desirability of entering the heavenly palace, but also highlights the obstacles and opposition faced by those seeking salvation. The preacher concludes by emphasizing the importance of pursuing the city of refuge, symbolizing the need to seek salvation in Christ.
The Violent Take the Kingdom of Heaven by Force
By Aaron Hurst2.1K1:07:57Powerful PrayingMAT 7:13MAT 7:21MAT 11:12MAT 13:41MAT 25:10LUK 13:24LUK 16:16In this sermon, Brother Denny emphasizes the importance of being diligent and vigilant in our pursuit of the kingdom of God. He contrasts the violent opposition faced by Christians in China with the lethargy and easy believism prevalent in our own land. He challenges both Christians and non-Christians to press in and make a forceful effort to enter into the kingdom. Brother Denny uses the example of sitting at ease in a meeting house as a symbol of indifference and urges listeners to be wholehearted in their pursuit of God.
The History of Rock - Part 1
By Alan Ives2.1K2:09:12Rock MusicPRO 18:23PRO 20:1PRO 21:21MAT 11:12EPH 5:18COL 3:16HEB 13:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of playing good music and its impact on the attitude of Christians. He refers to First Thessalonians 5 and highlights the various purposes of music, including glorifying God, teaching us how to call upon Him, and sharing testimonies of God's work in our lives. The speaker also discusses the historical significance of music in America, noting that for 300 years, the country thrived on Psalms and spiritual songs. However, he mentions that in the late 19th century, sensual dance rhythms like the rumba entered America, leading to a decline in wholesome music. The sermon concludes with a call to pray and prioritize wholesome music in order to serve the Lord and live a blessed life.
(1 Kings) Solomon Receives the Throne
By David Guzik1.7K1:13:58EXO 20:31KI 2:2PSA 119:105PRO 3:5MAT 6:33MAT 11:12ROM 8:28In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the final speech of King David to his son Solomon. David, who is old and unable to rule, prepares a motorcade to assert his authority and show that he is the next king. He advises Solomon to be obedient to the Lord in order to succeed in his reign. David emphasizes the importance of Solomon's obedience by reminding him of God's promise that there will always be a man from David's lineage on the throne of Israel if his sons walk before God in truth and with all their heart and soul. The speaker also suggests that David sensed some weakness in Solomon and encourages him to be strong and prove himself as a man.
Christ Is All - in Scripture
By Bill McLeod1.6K46:28Fulness Of ChristPSA 2:10PSA 40:7PSA 41:9MAT 1:21MAT 28:19MRK 14:62COL 3:11TIT 3:7PHM 1:1In this sermon, the speaker begins by referencing Mark 16 and Luke 1 from the Bible. He highlights how Jesus reproached his disciples for their lack of belief in his resurrection and then commanded them to preach the gospel to the world. The speaker also mentions that some versions of the Bible omit miracles and end with Jesus' death on the cross, portraying him as a good man and advocate of peace. However, the speaker emphasizes that the Bible is truly all about Jesus and explores the significance of his ministry and his role as the Son of God.
Ger-01 Veranstaltung in Der Christengemeinde
By Art Katz1.5K2:02:25GermanMAT 5:1MAT 11:12ACT 1:14ACT 2:1EPH 3:5EPH 3:7In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of leading a community of 55 people on a 160-acre farm in northern Minnesota. Feeling a strong conviction from God, they decided to wait on the Lord for ten days, seeking His guidance and direction. The speaker emphasizes the importance of living out their message and fulfilling the eternal purpose of God as a church. They also highlight the mandate to move Israel to jealousy and the need for deep communion with God through fasting and prayer. The sermon emphasizes the significance of relying on God's strength rather than human efforts and the need for continuous prayer and seeking God's will.
A Message for New York City
By Carter Conlon1.4K43:33New York City2SA 6:14PSA 149:3MAT 6:33MAT 11:12MAT 11:16MRK 8:22JHN 9:25In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the state of the current generation and their response to the word of God. He mentions the Billy Graham conferences in the 1950s, where many people came to know Jesus Christ. However, he also acknowledges that despite the preaching and the blessings, society is failing and becoming something other than what God intended. The preacher emphasizes the need for a deeper understanding and a genuine encounter with God, beyond cultural experiences. He encourages listeners to come to Jesus, who offers rest and invites them to learn from him. The sermon concludes with the promise that those who are humble and willing to seek God will experience the power of God in their generation.
Plans (Compilation)
By Compilations1.1K04:45Pursuing God's PromisesDesperation for GodCompilationGEN 32:24JER 29:11MAT 7:7MAT 11:12LUK 16:16ROM 8:29EPH 4:24PHP 3:20JAS 1:52PE 1:4In the sermon 'Plans (Compilation)', the preacher emphasizes the relentless pursuit required to enter the kingdom of heaven, likening it to the desperate struggle of a starving man. He describes those used by God as 'passionate weak' individuals who, recognizing their own limitations, press into God's promises with fervor and urgency. The preacher urges believers to abandon the desire for a comfortable life and instead seek a deeper relationship with God, wrestling with His promises and embracing their new nature in Christ. He highlights that true joy and fulfillment come from God alone, not from worldly pursuits, and encourages the congregation to embrace God's higher plans for their lives.
Birthed of God
By B.H. Clendennen1.1K29:46MAT 6:9MAT 11:12LUK 16:16JHN 3:3JHN 3:6ROM 8:141CO 15:35GAL 4:6EPH 2:6PHP 3:20COL 3:2This sermon emphasizes the profound relationship with God as our Father that is established through the Holy Spirit at the moment of spiritual birth. It highlights the importance of recognizing God as our Father through the lens of Calvary, rejecting the notion of revisiting past traumas for inner healing, and embracing the new identity as a child of God with supernatural possibilities. The sermon challenges believers to live out their new vocation in the kingdom of God with a transcendent perspective, understanding the violent spiritual battle for their place in the kingdom and the necessity of a desperate, violent pursuit of God's purpose.
The Kingdom Is Taken by Force
By Stephen Kaung8701:01:50MAT 11:4MAT 11:12MAT 11:28JHN 1:29JHN 1:32In this sermon, the preacher discusses the book of Malachi and the controversy God had with His people. The people of Israel were in darkness and were insensitive to God's law. They polluted His table, despised His name, violated His covenant, and even robbed God of what was due to Him. After 400 years of silence, God spoke again through John the Baptist, calling the people to repent. The preacher emphasizes the importance of discipleship and diligently seeking the kingdom of God, warning that if we do not press on in our Christian life, we may not be qualified to rule with Christ in His kingdom.
The Kingdom of the Heavens
By Stephen Kaung8301:22:52MAT 3:1MAT 4:17MAT 11:12MAT 24:14In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of the sudden return of Jesus Christ, comparing it to a thief coming unexpectedly. He uses the analogy of two men working in a field, two women grinding at a mill, and two people sleeping in bed, where one is taken and one is left behind. The preacher emphasizes that believers should be prepared for this event, as it could happen at any moment. He also references passages from the Gospel of Matthew, where John the Baptist and Jesus both preached about repentance and the nearness of the kingdom of heaven.
The Violent Take It by Force
By Hans R. Waldvogel77034:01PrayerPRO 8:17ISA 12:3MAT 6:33MAT 11:12JHN 7:38ACT 2:38EPH 3:16In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of seeking God with diligence and violence. He compares the seeking of God to a thirsty person eagerly drinking from a fountain, and encourages believers to be like a fountain, overflowing with the living water of God's Spirit. The preacher also highlights the need for genuine repentance and transformation in one's life, sharing a testimony of a man who was once a hopeless drunkard but was transformed by the power of God. He emphasizes the importance of being a witness for Christ and experiencing the peace that comes from having Jesus in one's heart. The preacher also mentions the example of famous Christians who diligently sought God and encourages the audience to do the same.
The Next Wave: A Revival Revolution
By Michael L. Brown6821:08:20MAT 11:12In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the changes that have occurred in society over the years, particularly in the last 10 years. They acknowledge both the negative events and the positive things that God has done. The speaker emphasizes the need for a new understanding of church and a radical change in the religious system. They call for a Jesus Revolution, empowered by the Holy Spirit, to bring about transformation in the world. The sermon concludes with an encouragement to seek God's guidance and to be open to His message.
The Riches of the New Covenant
By Zac Poonen4971:01:02MAT 11:12JHN 1:17ROM 6:142CO 6:1EPH 6:12PHP 4:4PHP 4:6This sermon emphasizes the transition from living under the old covenant to embracing the riches of the new covenant in Christ. It challenges believers to move beyond mere forgiveness and material blessings to possess the full inheritance of grace, including perpetual joy, freedom from anxiety, victory over sin giants, and authority over demonic forces. The speaker highlights the importance of not fighting with human beings to gain strength in spiritual battles and to establish the kingdom of God on earth.
Are You a Believer?
By Gerald Nolt48100:00PSA 139:16PSA 139:23ISA 66:2MAT 11:12EPH 1:4HEB 11:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not living loosely in these times. He refers to Proverbs chapter eight, where a young man lacking understanding is led astray by going to the house of a prostitute. The preacher warns against being void of understanding and wasting time on worldly pursuits, like a computer game that can consume hours of one's time. He encourages the congregation to press in and believe in all that God has for them, referencing the message of taking the kingdom of God by violence. The sermon concludes with a prayer for guidance and a story about witnessing a dangerous driving incident.
David: Being a Person of One Thing
By Mike Bickle2748:27Radical CommitmentPursuit of GodPSA 27:4PSA 34:5PSA 145:5MAT 11:12LUK 10:41JHN 1:51CO 4:9PHP 3:131JN 1:7REV 4:8Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of Psalm 27:4, where David expresses his singular desire to dwell in the house of the Lord and behold His beauty. He challenges listeners to approach this verse with fresh eyes, recognizing its depth and the radical commitment it requires. Bickle highlights that this 'one thing' lifestyle is often domesticated in modern culture, yet it is a divine invitation to a deeper relationship with God. He encourages believers to contend for this reality, understanding that it is not an automatic state but a result of years of seeking and pressing into God. Ultimately, Bickle calls for a radical re-evaluation of priorities, urging individuals to make the pursuit of God's beauty their primary daydream.
Contending for the Fullness of God's Power
By Mike Bickle241:11:32Contending for God's PowerThe Role of the Holy SpiritMIC 7:15MAT 11:12MAT 17:21MRK 4:24JHN 14:12ACT 2:17ROM 12:11CO 12:311TH 5:19JUD 1:3Mike Bickle emphasizes the urgent need for the church to contend for the fullness of God's power, urging believers to fight earnestly for the New Testament doctrine, lifestyle, and power. He highlights that this contending requires a clear vision, a commitment to change our lifestyles, and a deep reliance on prayer and fasting. Bickle warns against complacency and encourages a tenacious pursuit of God's promises, reminding the congregation that true power comes with obedience and a willingness to bear the reproach that may accompany it. He calls for a collective effort to seek a greater outpouring of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing that the fullness of God's power is not just for individual believers but for the entire church.
The Need for Power Breakthroughs
By Mike Bickle151:20:20Power BreakthroughsContending in Prayer2CH 7:14MAT 11:12MRK 16:17JHN 14:12ACT 1:8ROM 8:261CO 12:9EPH 3:20JAS 5:16JUD 1:3Mike Bickle emphasizes the urgent need for power breakthroughs in the church, expressing gratitude for current healings while passionately contending for a greater fullness of God's power. He highlights the importance of being faithful in the present while maintaining a vision for unprecedented spiritual breakthroughs, urging believers to press into prayer and unity to experience the fullness of God's glory. Bickle calls for a radical response to the call of God, encouraging the church to contend for a deeper relationship with Him that will lead to transformative power in their ministries.
Blessed Are the Meek
By Anton Bosch0NUM 12:3ISA 53:7MAT 5:5MAT 11:12MAT 11:29MAT 21:5MAT 27:14JHN 19:11ACT 26:141PE 2:23Anton Bosch preaches on the importance of meekness in Christianity, contrasting it with the aggressive nature often emphasized in modern beliefs. Meekness, as exemplified by Jesus, is not weakness but strength under God's control, surrendering to the Father's will without asserting oneself. True meekness is understanding that God is sovereign in our lives, guiding us through situations and people as tools in His hands. Learning meekness from Jesus brings rest and peace, unlike constant agitation and fighting against God's guidance.
Compared View of the First Three Gospels, Etc.
By John Nelson Darby0The GospelsChrist's MinistryMAT 1:1MAT 4:17MAT 5:1MAT 9:35MAT 11:28MAT 28:19MRK 1:14LUK 3:23LUK 4:18John Nelson Darby discusses the distinct characteristics and purposes of the first three Gospels, emphasizing that Mark presents a chronological account of Christ's service, while Matthew focuses on the presentation of Jesus as the Messiah and the implications of His rejection. He notes that Luke, while generally following Mark's order, includes moral teachings that are unique to his Gospel. Darby highlights the importance of understanding the genealogies and the context of Christ's ministry, particularly in relation to Israel's expectations and the establishment of the church. He concludes that the Gospels collectively reveal the nature of Christ's mission and the unfolding of God's plan for humanity.
A Double Portion of Elijah's Spirit
By F.B. Meyer0Legacy of FaithSpiritual EmpowermentDEU 21:172KI 2:92KI 2:13MAT 11:12F.B. Meyer explores the profound relationship between Elijah and Elisha, emphasizing Elisha's request for a double portion of Elijah's spirit as a testament to his commitment and spiritual hunger. The sermon highlights the importance of tenacity and spiritual insight in seeking God's blessings, illustrating that true power comes from a deep communion with God. Meyer encourages believers to pursue the Holy Spirit with the same fervor as Elisha, reminding them that God equips those He calls. The mantle of Elijah symbolizes the divine endorsement of Elisha's request, affirming that spiritual authority is passed on through faith and perseverance. Ultimately, the message is a call to embrace the legacy of faith and to seek God's empowering presence in our lives.
- John Gill
- Tyndale
John Gill Bible Commentary
For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John. These words are to be considered in connection with Mat 11:11 and are a further proof of John's being greater than any of the prophets; because all the inspired writers and prophets, who were before him, prophesied of the Messiah as to come; and either spoke of him in obscure terms, or represented him under dark shadows and figures: whereas John spake of him as already come, and in plain terms, and directed to his very person; and since his time, there have been no prophecies concerning the Messiah and his kingdom; vision and prophecy are now sealed up; all which are acknowledged by the Jews themselves, who (b) say, , "all the prophets did not prophesy but to, or of the days of the Messiah". This was the subject, and these the limits of their prophecies; for they own (c), that "from the day that the temple was destroyed, , "prophecy was taken away from the prophets".'' Since that time, they confess they have had no prophet (d), and that they are not able to observe their signs. (b) T. Bab. Beracot, fol. 34. 2. Sabbat, fol. 63. 1. Sanhedrim, fol. 99. 1. (c) T. Bava Bathra, fol. 12. 1. (d) Abarbinel in Dan. fol. 63. 4.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
11:12 the Kingdom of Heaven has been forcefully advancing: Or the Kingdom of Heaven has suffered from violence. These alternatives reflect either a positive or negative nuance of the Greek verb. In Luke 16:16, a different verb (“preached”) makes it a clearly positive statement. • violent people are attacking it: This phrase may also have a positive or negative sense. If negative, it might refer to those who imprisoned John (see Matt 11:2; 14:1-12), and attacking might mean either that they were trying to attack the Kingdom but were unable to thwart God’s sovereign plans, or that they were attacking it by persecuting its members. In Luke 16:16 this statement has the positive sense that they were “eager to get in” and were forcefully laying claim to the Kingdom through radical trust and obedience.