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    Comfort That Becomes Temptation

    Matthew 16:23 Commentary

    In-depth meaning, historical context, and practical application

    Written by Bible Sundays Editorial TeamChecked by Bible Sundays Scripture DeskLast reviewed August 1, 2026Our editorial standards
    "But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men."
    — Matthew 16:23 (KJV)
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    Introduction

    One verse before calling His disciples to take up their cross (v. 24), Jesus rebukes Peter sharply for trying to spare Him the cross. The lesson is searing: a well-meaning friend can voice a satanic suggestion.

    Historical Context

    Peter has just received high praise for his confession (v. 17). Now, in the very next paragraph, he is rebuked for opposing the cross. Even great spiritual moments do not exempt us from immediate testing.

    Original Language Insights

    'Offence' (skandalon) — a stumbling block.

    'Savourest' (phroneo) — to set the mind on. Peter was thinking from a human, not divine, framework — and that itself was the danger.

    Theological Significance

    Any voice — including a friendly one — that offers Christ a way around the cross speaks for Satan. The same applies to any voice that offers a disciple a way around their own.

    Practical Application

    Test counsel by Scripture, not by the speaker's kindness. The path of obedience often crosses through what loved ones would gladly help you avoid.

    Cross-References & Related Scriptures

    Matthew 16:24

    "If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross."

    The next verse — Jesus turns immediately from rejecting Peter's cross-avoidance to commanding cross-embrace for all who follow.

    Galatians 1:10

    "If I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ."

    Same principle: man-pleasing is incompatible with cross-bearing discipleship.

    Prayer Response

    Lord, guard me from kind counsel that would spare me Your cross. Let me mind the things of God. Amen.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Did Jesus call Peter himself 'Satan'?

    No — He named the source of the suggestion. Peter the man was beloved; the impulse to bypass the cross was not from God.

    Read commentary on surrounding verses

    Continue studying Matthew 16 verse by verse:

    After · Matthew 16:24Exact verse

    Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.

    Theme: Cost of Discipleship

    After · Matthew 16:25Exact verse

    For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.

    Theme: The Gospel Paradox of Life

    Nearest commentary in Matthew

    Later · 1 ch forward · Matthew 17:20Nearest chapter

    And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.

    Theme: Faith

    Later · 2 ch forward · Matthew 18:21-22Nearest chapter

    Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.

    Theme: Forgiveness

    Later · 2 ch forward · Matthew 18:21Nearest chapter

    Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times?

    Theme: Peter's Generous Math

    Later · 2 ch forward · Matthew 18:22Nearest chapter

    Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.

    Theme: Forgiveness

    Read Matthew 15No commentary yet
    Read Matthew 16 (full)Nearest commentary: Matthew 16:24
    Read Matthew 17Commentary: Matthew 17:20
    Previous commentary: Matthew 13:45Next commentary: Matthew 16:24

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    Matthew 16:25 Commentary

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    Related Bible Questions

    Common questions people ask about this passage — answered with KJV scripture.

    What Does the Bible Say About Lying?

    The Bible identifies lying as an abomination to God, lists it among things He hates, and contrasts Satan as the father of lies with Christ as the way, the truth, and the life.

    Read answer

    Why Did Jesus Have to Die on the Cross?

    Jesus died as a substitutionary sacrifice to pay the penalty for human sin and reconcile humanity to God.

    Read answer

    Who Is Satan (the Devil)?

    Satan is a fallen angel who rebelled against God and now leads the forces of evil, seeking to oppose God's purposes and destroy humanity.

    Read answer

    What Is the Creation Story in Genesis?

    Genesis 1-2 describes God creating the universe, earth, and all life in six days, resting on the seventh — establishing His sovereignty over all things.

    Read answer

    What is the significance of the cross?

    The cross is the central symbol of Christianity, representing Jesus' sacrificial death for humanity's sins and God's ultimate demonstration of love, justice, and redemption.

    Read answer

    Who Were the Twelve Apostles?

    The twelve apostles were the men Jesus chose as His closest followers and commissioned to spread the gospel: Peter, Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot (later replaced by Matthias).

    Read answer

    Quick Devotional

    For a shorter devotional reflection on related verses:

    Matthew 6:33 – Meaning & Devotional

    "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."

    Matthew 28:19-20 – Meaning & Devotional

    "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world."

    Matthew 11:28-30 – Meaning & Devotional

    "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."

    Related Miracles

    Signs and wonders connected to this passage and its themes:

    Power Over Nature
    New Testament

    Jesus Walks on Water

    Jesus walked on the Sea of Galilee in the fourth watch of the night and bid Peter come to Him.

    Read the miracle
    Signs & Wonders
    New Testament

    The Transfiguration of Jesus

    Jesus is transfigured on a mountain, His face shining as the sun, with Moses and Elijah appearing.

    Read the miracle
    Healing
    New Testament

    Healing of the Centurion's Servant

    Jesus marveled at the centurion's faith and healed his servant from a distance with a word.

    Read the miracle
    Healing
    New Testament

    Healing of Peter's Mother-in-Law

    Jesus heals Peter's mother-in-law of a great fever, and she rises to serve them.

    Read the miracle

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