Definition: Peter saith unto him, Of strangers. Jesus saith unto him, Then are the children free.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important passage from Matthew 17:26. It’s often misunderstood, so we’ll go through it step-by-step. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is about freedom and release . It’s a message of hope for those who feel restricted or held back. Let's unpack each part: “Matthew 17:26” : This refers to a specific event in Matthew’s Gospel (a book within the Bible). It describes a moment when Jesus is teaching his disciples. “Peter saith unto him…” : Peter, one of Jesus’ closest followers, was speaking to someone. The “him” refers to Jesus himself. “Of strangers.” : This is the crucial part. Peter isn't talking about anyone – he’s talking about strangers . He’s emphasizing that freedom isn’t just for people who are close to him, but for everyone . “Jesus saith unto him…” : Jesus was responding to Peter's question or statement. “Then are the children free.” : This is the key message! The phrase “are the children free” has a powerful meaning. It suggests that: Restrictions are lifted: Something is holding people back – perhaps fear, shame, doubt, or old habits. New possibilities open up: With this liberation, new opportunities and joy become available. What does it mean in a broader sense? This verse often gets misinterpreted as meaning that anyone who looks foreign (different) to others is free. However, the original Greek word “strangers” doesn’t necessarily mean someone completely unknown or unfamiliar. It means someone who is unrecognized – someone who isn't recognized by tradition, by norms, or by those in power. It signifies someone who is outside of established ways. Why is this important? This verse speaks to the potential for transformation and liberation within us all. It’s a reminder that we are free to live differently than we might be if we were bound by limitations or expectations. It encourages us to embrace our unique identity and to seek freedom from anything that holds us back. In short, this verse is about releasing ourselves – both figuratively and literally - through embracing who we are and breaking free from constraints. --- Do you want me to: Explain it in more detail? Give an example of how this verse applies to a specific situation? Discuss the historical context of this passage?