Definition: They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from Matthew 16:18. It’s a really important story about Jesus and healing. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: Jesus was teaching his disciples – Peter, James, and John – about the power of prayer. He was telling them that they could heal people with their words and faith. Suddenly, a devil (or evil spirit) appears and offers Jesus a serpent. This serpent is incredibly dangerous – it’s designed to be deadly. What Happens Next: The Devil Challenges: The devil says, "If they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them." This means the serpent cannot harm anyone who drinks it. Jesus Says No: Jesus responds by saying, “They shall take up serpents.” This is a direct command to stop. The Devil's Plan: The devil then tells him that he will lay his hands on the sick and recover them. This means he’ll use his power to heal people. What It Means in a Broader Sense (The Message): This verse is about Jesus’ authority over healing. It's essentially saying: Jesus has the power to make things better. He’s not just talking about healing; he’s commanding him to use his power to restore people. He’s in control of the miracle. The devil’s attempt to hinder Jesus is a challenge to his authority. It's like a battle between good and evil – Jesus is standing firm in his ability to bring about good through his divine power. Important Context: This story happened before Jesus’ crucifixion. It was a moment of intense spiritual conflict, where the devil tried to stop him from fulfilling his mission. It's a key part of how the Bible portrays Jesus as strong and powerful. In short, it's a story about Jesus' authority over healing and his ability to bring about restoration through his power. --- Do you have any specific questions about this verse that I can answer for you? For example, would you like me to: Explain the significance of the serpent? Discuss the role of the devil in the story? Connect it to a larger theme in the Bible (like faith and healing)?