Matthew 13:17 Cross References

Matthew 13:17

17: I assure you, many prophets and godly people have longed to see and hear what you have seen and heard, but they could not.

All these faithful ones died without receiving what God had promised them, but they saw it all from a distance and welcomed the promises of God. They agreed that they were no more than foreigners and nomads here on earth.

This salvation was something the prophets wanted to know more about. They prophesied about this gracious salvation prepared for you, even though they had many questions as to what it all could mean.
They wondered what the Spirit of Christ within them was talking about when he told them in advance about Christ's suffering and his great glory afterward. They wondered when and to whom all this would happen.
They were told that these things would not happen during their lifetime, but many years later, during yours. And now this Good News has been announced by those who preached to you in the power of the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. It is all so wonderful that even the angels are eagerly watching these things happen.

Your ancestor Abraham rejoiced as he looked forward to my coming. He saw it and was glad."

God did not reveal it to previous generations, but now he has revealed it by the Holy Spirit to his holy apostles and prophets.
And this is the secret plan: The Gentiles have an equal share with the Jews in all the riches inherited by God's children. Both groups have believed the Good News, and both are part of the same body and enjoy together the promise of blessings through Christ Jesus.

I tell you, many prophets and kings have longed to see and hear what you have seen and heard, but they could not."

All of these people we have mentioned received God's approval because of their faith, yet none of them received all that God had promised.
For God had far better things in mind for us that would also benefit them, for they can't receive the prize at the end of the race until we finish the race.

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