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Matthew 23:37
Verse
Context
Lament over Jerusalem
36Truly I tell you, all these things will come upon this generation.37O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, who kills the prophets and stones those sent to her, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were unwilling! 38Look, your house is left to you desolate.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, &c.--How ineffably grand and melting is this apostrophe! It is the very heart of God pouring itself forth through human flesh and speech. It is this incarnation of the innermost life and love of Deity, pleading with men, bleeding for them, and ascending only to open His arms to them and win them back by the power of this story of matchless love, that has conquered the world, that will yet "draw all men unto Him," and beautify and ennoble Humanity itself! "Jerusalem" here does not mean the mere city or its inhabitants; nor is it to be viewed merely as the metropolis of the nation, but as the center of their religious life--"the city of their solemnities, whither the tribes went up, to give thanks unto the name of the Lord"; and at this moment it was full of them. It is the whole family of God, then, which is here apostrophized by a name dear to every Jew, recalling to him all that was distinctive and precious in his religion. The intense feeling that sought vent in this utterance comes out first in the redoubling of the opening word--"Jerusalem, Jerusalem!" but, next, in the picture of it which He draws--"that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee!"--not content with spurning God's messages of mercy, that canst not suffer even the messengers to live! When He adds, "How often would I have gathered thee!" He refers surely to something beyond the six or seven times that He visited and taught in Jerusalem while on earth. No doubt it points to "the prophets," whom they "killed," to "them that were sent unto her," whom they "stoned." But whom would He have gathered so often? "Thee," truth-hating, mercy-spurning, prophet-killing Jerusalem--how often would I have gathered thee! Compare with this that affecting clause in the great ministerial commission, "that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem!" (Luk 24:47). What encouragement to the heartbroken at their own long-continued and obstinate rebellion! But we have not yet got at the whole heart of this outburst. I would have gathered thee, He says, "even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings." Was ever imagery so homely invested with such grace and such sublimity as this, at our Lord's touch? And yet how exquisite the figure itself--of protection, rest, warmth, and all manner of conscious well-being in those poor, defenseless, dependent little creatures, as they creep under and feel themselves overshadowed by the capacious and kindly wing of the mother bird! If, wandering beyond hearing of her peculiar call, they are overtaken by a storm or attacked by an enemy, what can they do but in the one case droop and die, and in the other submit to be torn in pieces? But if they can reach in time their place of safety, under the mother's wing, in vain will any enemy try to drag them thence. For rising into strength, kindling into fury, and forgetting herself entirely in her young, she will let the last drop of her blood be shed out and perish in defense of her precious charge, rather than yield them to an enemy's talons. How significant all this of what Jesus is and does for men! Under His great Mediatorial wing would He have "gathered" Israel. For the figure, see Deu 32:10-12; Rut 2:12; Psa 17:8; Psa 36:7; Psa 61:4; Psa 63:7; Psa 91:4; Isa 31:5; Mal 4:2. The ancient rabbins had a beautiful expression for proselytes from the heathen--that they had "come under the wings of the Shekinah." For this last word, see on Mat 23:38. But what was the result of all this tender and mighty love? The answer is, "And ye would not." O mysterious word! mysterious the resistance of such patient Love-mysterious the liberty of self-undoing! The awful dignity of the will, as here expressed, might make the ears to tingle.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Behold your house is left unto you desolate. Signifying that the city in which they dwelt, where they had their ceiled houses, and stately palaces, would, in a little time, within the space of forty years, be destroyed, and become a desert; and the temple, formerly the house of God, but now only their's, and in which they trusted, would be abandoned by God, he would grant his presence no more in it; and the Messiah, the proprietor of it, and who was now in it, would then take his leave of it, and never more return to it; and that also should share the same fate as the city, and at the same time. Our Lord seems to have in view those passages in Jer 12:7 and which the Jewish (o) writers understood of the temple. The author of the apocryphal the second book of Esdras has much such an expression as this: "Thus saith the Almighty Lord, Your house is desolate, I will cast you out as the wind doth stubble.'' (2 Esdras 1:33). (o) Targum & Kimchi in Jer. xii. 7.
Matthew 23:37
Lament over Jerusalem
36Truly I tell you, all these things will come upon this generation.37O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, who kills the prophets and stones those sent to her, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were unwilling! 38Look, your house is left to you desolate.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Burdens of Ravenhill - Part 2 (Compilation)
By Leonard Ravenhill13K10:23CompilationJER 6:14MAT 5:4MAT 23:37LUK 4:18LUK 6:45LUK 19:41PHP 3:18In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being anointed by God to preach the word. He highlights the brokenness and suffering in the world and the need for God's healing. The preacher calls for servants of God who are willing to weep and be brokenhearted for the brokenness they see. He also emphasizes the need for prophets in this generation, drawing examples from the Bible. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the power of God working through believers, using the apostle Paul as an example of someone who was filled with God's presence and endured persecution.
Chasing the Dragon 1 of 2
By Jackie Pullinger11K43:28TestimonyMAT 6:33MAT 23:37MRK 10:17LUK 4:18LUK 9:23JHN 13:34HEB 12:2In this sermon, the preacher discusses the encounter between Jesus and a rich young man as described in Mark chapter 10. The young man approaches Jesus and asks what he must do to inherit eternal life. Jesus responds by reminding him of the commandments, which the young man claims to have kept since childhood. Jesus then tells him to sell all his possessions and give to the poor in order to have treasure in heaven. The preacher emphasizes the importance of fully surrendering to God and letting go of anything that may hinder one's relationship with Him, whether it be wealth or other attachments.
The Old Testament God
By Andrew Strom9.0K1:08:19MAT 22:1MAT 23:33MAT 23:37In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the parable of the wedding banquet from Matthew chapter 22. He emphasizes that God is a God of judgment, both in the Old and New Testaments. The preacher highlights how the king in the parable becomes angry and punishes those who refuse to come to the wedding banquet, even destroying their city. He also warns about the coming tribulation and the consequences of rejecting the prophets and the Son of Man. The preacher criticizes preachers who focus on a seeker-sensitive message instead of preaching about sin, righteousness, and judgment.
Whatever Happened to Repentance?
By David Wilkerson9.0K00:00RepentanceMAT 4:17MAT 23:37MRK 16:16LUK 5:32ACT 2:38ROM 2:4HEB 6:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of repentance and the forgiveness of sins through the blood of Jesus. He urges the congregation to come forward and confess their sins, both believers and non-believers alike. The preacher encourages everyone to be open and honest with God, confessing any hidden sins and seeking Godly sorrow in their hearts. He reminds the audience that all of heaven rejoices when even one sinner repents. The sermon concludes with a call to ask God to reveal where each individual stands in their relationship with Him.
It's Harvest Time
By David Wilkerson3.7K43:03HarvestMAT 6:33MAT 9:36MAT 23:13MAT 23:37JHN 10:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of harvest time and how it relates to the current generation. He emphasizes that God knew the unique challenges this generation would face and the temptations they would encounter. Despite these challenges, the speaker believes that in times of darkness and distress, people become more open to the gospel. He draws parallels to the story of Israel, where God brought them low before their deliverance, and suggests that a similar pattern may occur in the United States and the world.
Current Events and the Return of Christ
By Alan Redpath3.6K40:36Second ComingMAT 6:33MAT 23:37MAT 24:2MAT 24:6MAT 24:42MRK 13:2MRK 13:37In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of watching and praying in relation to the work of God. He highlights that watching involves maintaining loyalty to Jesus Christ and having courage in the face of adversity. The preacher also emphasizes the need to pray for God's kingdom and glory. The sermon is based on the last verse of the thirteenth chapter of the Gospel of Mark, where Jesus instructs his disciples to watch.
The Man God Tore Apart
By Leonard Ravenhill3.3K35:32EXO 15:181SA 2:302CH 7:14JER 9:1JOL 2:17MAT 23:37REV 11:15In this sermon, the preacher expresses deep sorrow and concern for the state of the nation. He emphasizes that God's mercy and patience are running out, as they have crucified Jesus and stoned the prophets. The preacher recalls a time when he preached on a text with a broken heart, lamenting the lack of spiritual fervor among the congregation. He warns that despite the abundance of material blessings, there will come a time of spiritual famine in America. The sermon concludes with a heartbreaking story of a tragic accident involving a covered wagon and the loss of a mother and child, highlighting the urgency of seeking God before it is too late.
Return of Christ 19.3.1961
By Alan Redpath3.0K39:17ChristMAT 6:33MAT 23:37MAT 24:42MRK 13:2MRK 13:37LUK 12:35LUK 21:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of work and prayer in the life of a believer. He encourages every individual to be diligent in their work and to find joy in serving God's purpose. The preacher also highlights the significance of watching, which involves maintaining loyalty to Jesus Christ and seeking His kingdom and glory. He relates these teachings to current events and urges listeners to take action and share the message of Jesus with others before it is too late.
Whatever Happened to Repentance
By David Wilkerson2.6K00:00RepentanceMAT 4:17MAT 23:37MRK 16:16LUK 5:32ACT 2:38ROM 2:4HEB 6:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of repentance and the forgiveness of sins through the blood of Jesus. He urges the congregation to come forward and confess their sins, both believers and non-believers alike. The preacher encourages everyone to be open and honest with God, confessing any hidden sins and seeking Godly sorrow in their hearts. He reminds the audience that all of heaven rejoices when even one sinner repents. The sermon concludes with a call to ask God to reveal where each individual stands in their relationship with Him.
Alive or Dead (Reading)
By J.C. Ryle2.3K39:072KI 13:21EZK 18:4MAT 6:33MAT 23:37JHN 3:3EPH 5:14COL 2:13In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living a consistent and faithful life as a witness for God. He urges listeners to let their words, actions, and attitudes align with their faith. The preacher also highlights the urgency of turning away from sin and seeking salvation, reminding listeners that God does not desire anyone to perish. He emphasizes the love and compassion of Jesus, who weeps over those who reject him and offers them the opportunity to be gathered under his care. The preacher concludes by affirming that a true transformation of the soul is possible and necessary for all individuals.
A Baptism of Tears for Israel
By Michael L. Brown2.2K36:43IsraelPSA 34:12MAT 5:4MAT 6:33MAT 23:37ROM 9:1ROM 9:4HEB 5:7In this sermon, the speaker addresses the state of the American body, particularly those who consider themselves charismatic or spirit-filled believers. He criticizes the tendency for believers to rely on formulas and a push-button approach to their faith, seeking instant results. The speaker emphasizes the importance of spiritual hunger and the need to go beyond simply asking God to move, but also speaking forth commands and decrees in alignment with Scripture. He shares stories of Jewish tradition and the dedication of Rabbi Akiva and his disciples, highlighting the power of sanctifying the name of the Lord and the consequences of slander.
(Through the Bible) Revelation 13-15
By Chuck Smith2.0K1:26:30Through The BibleEXO 15:1MAT 23:37JHN 14:9REV 7:3REV 14:1REV 15:3REV 16:7In this sermon, the preacher discusses the final judgments of God and the coming of Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that mankind has reached the peak of rebellion against God, and it is now time for God's final judgments to be executed. The preacher mentions an angel with a sharp sickle who gathers the vine of the earth and casts it into the wine press of God's wrath. He also mentions a lost satellite that was supposed to carry the everlasting gospel, highlighting the importance of spreading the message of salvation. The sermon concludes with a prayer of gratitude for Jesus' redemptive work and a call to hide God's word in our hearts.
The Prayer That Prepares the Way
By Wesley Duewel1.8K49:03PrayerEXO 14:21ISA 40:1ISA 63:11ISA 65:1MAT 6:33MAT 23:37LUK 11:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance and comfort of revival for God's people, the Church, and the community. He prays for the spread of revival news through ministries like the Canadian Revival Fellowship. The preacher shares examples of how revival can transform lives and bring glory to God. He encourages the audience to study the Word of God and to prevail in prayer for revival to sweep over their countries and the world. The sermon is based on Isaiah 40:1-5, where God calls for the preparation of the way for His coming and promises that His glory will be revealed to all mankind.
Prophecy in the New Testament
By Zac Poonen1.8K1:00:30ProphecyISA 30:10MAT 5:12MAT 23:37In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of testing teachings and doctrines based on four criteria: Did Jesus do it? Did Jesus teach it? Did the apostles do it? Did the apostles teach it? The speaker warns about the prevalence of deception in the last days, as mentioned in 1 Timothy 4 and Matthew 24. They highlight the danger of false prophets and the tendency for people to seek teachings that make them feel good rather than aligning with God's word. The sermon concludes with the reminder to focus on the testimony of Jesus and to be connected to Him rather than being dependent on any human leader.
Service and Servanthood of the Lord - Part 5 of 8
By T. Austin-Sparks1.8K42:24ServanthoodISA 61:1MAT 5:3MAT 6:33MAT 23:37LUK 4:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the ministry of eye-opening and revelation within the church. They highlight that while Jesus performed miracles and opened people's eyes during his time on earth, this ministry has now been transferred to the church. However, the speaker acknowledges that the church has not fully embraced this ministry and calls for a transformation in the church's approach. They explain that the servant, referring to Jesus, brings transformation by offering a garland for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, and a garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness. The sermon concludes with a call for both non-believers and believers to embrace the good news and become servants of this transformative message.
(Through the Bible) John 18-19
By Chuck Smith1.7K1:28:49MAT 5:7MAT 23:23MAT 23:27MAT 23:37JHN 18:1GAL 6:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the significance of Jesus' statement "it is finished" on the cross. He explains that this declaration signifies the completion of God's work of redemption for humanity through Jesus' sacrifice. The speaker emphasizes that there is nothing we can add to this finished work through our own good deeds, and that our acceptance by God comes solely through receiving Jesus' finished work. The sermon also touches on the importance of knowing and studying God's Word, and concludes with a reminder of God's love and the need for believers to show mercy and forgiveness to others.
Driving Out the Money Changers
By Zac Poonen1.5K56:26EXO 32:19ISA 59:13ZEC 14:9MAT 23:37ACT 7:52REV 2:4This sermon emphasizes the importance of having the mind of Christ and being transformed to think like Him. It highlights the need for zeal for God's house, purity in the church, and standing against exploitation and corruption within religious settings. The speaker draws parallels between Jesus cleansing the temple at the beginning and end of His ministry, showcasing the righteous anger against those who exploit others in the name of God. The message calls for a return to true worship, purity, and a prophetic voice in the church to combat spiritual famine and maintain God's standards.
The Missing Note in Present-Day Preaching
By Henry Mahan1.2K41:27ApostasyJOB 42:1MAT 7:21MAT 23:37LUK 7:47LUK 18:9JHN 5:40JHN 10:10In this sermon, the preacher highlights the importance of preaching in shaping our beliefs and attitudes towards ourselves and others. He emphasizes that our faith and knowledge of God are dependent on the preaching we have heard. However, he points out that there is something missing in present-day preaching - the conviction that some individuals have never truly been lost and in need of salvation. The preacher criticizes the practice of rushing people through baptism and making them church members without ensuring they have truly received new life in Christ. He also highlights the prevalence of empty churches, unread Bibles, and superficial moral reformation, emphasizing the need for genuine spiritual transformation.
The Image of Jesus Christ
By Bill McLeod1.1K29:08Jesus ChristEXO 3:11MAT 11:28MAT 23:37ACT 10:38ROM 8:292CO 10:12TI 2:241JN 3:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of imitating the meekness and gentleness of Christ. He references how Jesus wept over Israel and highlights the significance of expressing emotions, even for believers. The speaker shares a personal experience of sharing the gospel with a rough-looking man and encourages believers to share their faith without worrying about the reaction. The sermon also discusses the concept of believers being called the sons of God and the future hope of being like Christ. The speaker references 1 John 3:1 and Romans 8 to support the idea that God's plan for believers is to be conformed to the image of Christ.
Pilgrims Problems No. 6 Election
By Willie Mullan1.1K1:00:44ElectionMAT 23:37JHN 3:16ACT 13:48ROM 8:29EPH 1:41TI 4:91PE 1:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of a sovereign seizure, which is supported by seven statements found in the New Testament. The first statement is from 1 Peter 1:1, emphasizing the importance of placing faith in the living God. The second statement is from 1 Timothy 4:9, highlighting the reproach that believers may face for trusting in God. The speaker then emphasizes that God is the savior of all men, especially those who believe. The sermon emphasizes the need for the Holy Spirit to move in people's hearts and the importance of preaching the Gospel with the power of the Holy Ghost.
Under His Wings
By Jenny Daniel99852:37ProtectionPSA 17:8PSA 31:19PSA 55:6AMO 4:6MAT 23:37HEB 11:35HEB 11:38In this sermon, the preacher shares stories and illustrations to emphasize the importance of accepting God's invitation for protection and salvation. He describes a scene where a child is left behind in the midst of a battle, and a brave soldier risks his life to save the child. This act of bravery is compared to the sacrifice of Jesus, who gave his life for humanity. The preacher also warns about the consequences of rejecting God's call and emphasizes the need to prepare to meet God, as He is both a loving God and a God of judgment. The sermon encourages listeners to accept God's invitation and find safety and confidence under His wings.
Submit to God Today
By Erlo Stegen9931:04:09SubmissionGEN 2:7MAT 6:33MAT 23:34MAT 23:37In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of studying God's word and allowing God to speak to us through it. He encourages listeners to stay close to God and pray, and to make clear decisions about their actions. The preacher also mentions a story of a person who left and testified about the consequences of not following God's word. He warns about the devil's influence on earth and his desire to keep people from experiencing God's peace and joy. The preacher concludes by highlighting the role of prophets and messengers in delivering God's word to people.
Jerusalem Capital of Israel
By Hedley G Murphy96645:112SA 6:9ZEC 14:6ZEC 14:12MAT 23:37MAT 23:39In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of giving God the glory in both times of victory and times of struggle. He uses the story of David as an example, highlighting how David celebrated his victories without acknowledging God's role in them. As a result, God became displeased with David's pride and threatened to destroy him. The preacher urges the audience to humbly submit to God and give Him the glory in all circumstances.
Israel and the End Times (Time Square Church)
By David Davis7951:10:50IsraelZEC 4:6MAT 23:37MAT 23:39EPH 2:11In this sermon, the speaker discusses the restoration of Israel and the role it plays in the end times. He emphasizes the importance of the Jewish people turning to Jesus as a sign of the approaching end. The speaker also mentions the need for the gospel to be preached to all nations before the end comes. He shares his excitement about a congregation on Mount Carmel that consists of both Arabs and Jews, highlighting the unity and reconciliation that can be found in Christ.
Does Your Jesus Shine in the Dark
By Carter Conlon61541:37PSA 33:10MAT 23:37The sermon titled 'Does Your Jesus Shine in the Dark?' from Matthew chapter 23 emphasizes the importance of opening our hearts to the true Jesus, not a self-crafted version, to experience His light and power in the midst of darkness. The message calls for a genuine surrender to God's will, speaking well of His ways, and being indwelt by the Holy Spirit for miraculous multiplication in our lives.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, &c.--How ineffably grand and melting is this apostrophe! It is the very heart of God pouring itself forth through human flesh and speech. It is this incarnation of the innermost life and love of Deity, pleading with men, bleeding for them, and ascending only to open His arms to them and win them back by the power of this story of matchless love, that has conquered the world, that will yet "draw all men unto Him," and beautify and ennoble Humanity itself! "Jerusalem" here does not mean the mere city or its inhabitants; nor is it to be viewed merely as the metropolis of the nation, but as the center of their religious life--"the city of their solemnities, whither the tribes went up, to give thanks unto the name of the Lord"; and at this moment it was full of them. It is the whole family of God, then, which is here apostrophized by a name dear to every Jew, recalling to him all that was distinctive and precious in his religion. The intense feeling that sought vent in this utterance comes out first in the redoubling of the opening word--"Jerusalem, Jerusalem!" but, next, in the picture of it which He draws--"that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee!"--not content with spurning God's messages of mercy, that canst not suffer even the messengers to live! When He adds, "How often would I have gathered thee!" He refers surely to something beyond the six or seven times that He visited and taught in Jerusalem while on earth. No doubt it points to "the prophets," whom they "killed," to "them that were sent unto her," whom they "stoned." But whom would He have gathered so often? "Thee," truth-hating, mercy-spurning, prophet-killing Jerusalem--how often would I have gathered thee! Compare with this that affecting clause in the great ministerial commission, "that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem!" (Luk 24:47). What encouragement to the heartbroken at their own long-continued and obstinate rebellion! But we have not yet got at the whole heart of this outburst. I would have gathered thee, He says, "even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings." Was ever imagery so homely invested with such grace and such sublimity as this, at our Lord's touch? And yet how exquisite the figure itself--of protection, rest, warmth, and all manner of conscious well-being in those poor, defenseless, dependent little creatures, as they creep under and feel themselves overshadowed by the capacious and kindly wing of the mother bird! If, wandering beyond hearing of her peculiar call, they are overtaken by a storm or attacked by an enemy, what can they do but in the one case droop and die, and in the other submit to be torn in pieces? But if they can reach in time their place of safety, under the mother's wing, in vain will any enemy try to drag them thence. For rising into strength, kindling into fury, and forgetting herself entirely in her young, she will let the last drop of her blood be shed out and perish in defense of her precious charge, rather than yield them to an enemy's talons. How significant all this of what Jesus is and does for men! Under His great Mediatorial wing would He have "gathered" Israel. For the figure, see Deu 32:10-12; Rut 2:12; Psa 17:8; Psa 36:7; Psa 61:4; Psa 63:7; Psa 91:4; Isa 31:5; Mal 4:2. The ancient rabbins had a beautiful expression for proselytes from the heathen--that they had "come under the wings of the Shekinah." For this last word, see on Mat 23:38. But what was the result of all this tender and mighty love? The answer is, "And ye would not." O mysterious word! mysterious the resistance of such patient Love-mysterious the liberty of self-undoing! The awful dignity of the will, as here expressed, might make the ears to tingle.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Behold your house is left unto you desolate. Signifying that the city in which they dwelt, where they had their ceiled houses, and stately palaces, would, in a little time, within the space of forty years, be destroyed, and become a desert; and the temple, formerly the house of God, but now only their's, and in which they trusted, would be abandoned by God, he would grant his presence no more in it; and the Messiah, the proprietor of it, and who was now in it, would then take his leave of it, and never more return to it; and that also should share the same fate as the city, and at the same time. Our Lord seems to have in view those passages in Jer 12:7 and which the Jewish (o) writers understood of the temple. The author of the apocryphal the second book of Esdras has much such an expression as this: "Thus saith the Almighty Lord, Your house is desolate, I will cast you out as the wind doth stubble.'' (2 Esdras 1:33). (o) Targum & Kimchi in Jer. xii. 7.