Exegetical Brief: Matthew 11:12 Heaven's Forceful Kingdom and Earth's Violent Men

Abstract

Professor Sorum takes a closer look at the exegetical difficulties in Matthew 11:12 and especially focuses in on (biazetai) and (harpazousin). He then presents the the three main translational options and closes with these words: “In spite of angry and slanderous attacks upon Jesus’ family of followers here, his kingdom advances forcefully. God’s gospel unleashes its power and advances with force when we preach it. While it is day and for as long as we are free, let us preach it forcefully.”