Book of Matthew - Chapter 13 - Verse 52
Meaning
When Jesus spoke the words "Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old," he was illustrating the role of a scribe in the kingdom of heaven. A scribe in biblical times was responsible for copying and interpreting sacred texts. In this verse, Jesus is emphasizing the importance of a scribe who is well-versed in the teachings of the kingdom of heaven. Just like a householder who brings out treasures both old and new from his storehouse, a scribe instructed in the teachings of the kingdom of heaven is able to bring forth wisdom from both the past and present, demonstrating a deep understanding and reverence for the scriptures. This verse highlights the value of tradition and the importance of continuously seeking and interpreting new insights within the context of divine truth.
Theological Overview
This verse, Matthew 13:52, is part of a series of parables that Jesus tells to his disciples. In this particular verse, Jesus compares a scribe who is instructed in the kingdom of heaven to a householder who brings out treasures, both old and new, from his storehouse. The term "scribe" refers to someone who was well-versed in the Scriptures and Jewish law, and in this context, it signifies a teacher or interpreter of God's Word. By likening a scribe to a householder, Jesus emphasizes the importance of sharing insights from both the old (the Old Testament) and the new (the teachings of Jesus) in order to fully understand and appreciate the kingdom of heaven. This verse highlights the continuity between the Old Testament and the teachings of Jesus, emphasizing that both are valuable sources of spiritual wisdom. Through this comparison, Jesus encourages his followers to draw on the rich tradition of the Scriptures while also being open to new revelations and insights that come through his teachings.