What is the meaning of Matthew 8:20?

Matthew 8:20 states, "And Jesus saith unto him, The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head" (KJV). This verse is rich with meaning and offers profound insights into the nature of Jesus' ministry, His identity, and the cost of discipleship.

To understand this verse fully, it is essential to consider its context within the Gospel of Matthew. In Matthew 8, Jesus has been performing miracles, healing the sick, and demonstrating His authority over nature and the spiritual realm. As His fame spreads, many are drawn to Him, including a scribe who expresses a desire to follow Jesus wherever He goes. It is in response to this scribe that Jesus utters the words of Matthew 8:20.

The Identity of Jesus as the "Son of Man"

One of the key elements of this verse is Jesus' self-identification as the "Son of Man." This title is deeply rooted in Old Testament prophecy, particularly in the book of Daniel 7:13-14, where the "Son of Man" is depicted as a heavenly figure who is given dominion, glory, and a kingdom by the Ancient of Days. By using this title, Jesus is not only asserting His messianic identity but also His divine authority and mission.

However, the title "Son of Man" also emphasizes Jesus' humanity and His identification with the human condition. Unlike the foxes and birds, which have secure places to rest, Jesus highlights His own lack of earthly security and comfort. This duality of the title underscores the paradox of Jesus' existence: He is both divine and human, possessing ultimate authority yet experiencing profound humility and vulnerability.

The Cost of Discipleship

Jesus' statement in Matthew 8:20 serves as a sobering reminder of the cost of discipleship. By declaring that He has "not where to lay His head," Jesus is emphasizing the transient and sacrificial nature of His ministry. Following Jesus is not a path to earthly comfort or security; it requires a willingness to embrace uncertainty and hardship.

This theme is echoed throughout the Gospels. In Luke 14:27, Jesus states, "And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple" (KJV). The call to follow Jesus is a call to a life of self-denial and sacrifice. It is a call to prioritize the Kingdom of God above all else, even at the expense of personal comfort and security.

Jesus' Earthly Ministry

The imagery of foxes having holes and birds having nests contrasts sharply with Jesus' itinerant lifestyle. Throughout His ministry, Jesus traveled from place to place, often relying on the hospitality of others. This lack of a permanent home underscores the urgency and mission-driven nature of His work. Jesus' primary focus was not on establishing a comfortable life for Himself but on proclaiming the Kingdom of God, healing the sick, and offering salvation to all who would receive it.

In this way, Jesus' lifestyle serves as a model for His followers. Christians are called to live with a sense of mission and purpose, prioritizing the work of God's Kingdom over personal comfort and stability. This does not necessarily mean that all Christians must live as itinerants, but it does mean that they should hold loosely to the things of this world and be willing to sacrifice for the sake of the Gospel.

Theological Implications

Matthew 8:20 also has significant theological implications. It highlights the incarnation of Jesus—God becoming flesh and dwelling among us (John 1:14). The Creator of the universe, who has all authority and power, chose to enter into human history in the most humble and vulnerable way. This act of divine condescension is at the heart of the Christian faith and reveals the depth of God's love for humanity.

Furthermore, Jesus' lack of a permanent home points to the transient nature of our earthly existence. Hebrews 13:14 reminds us, "For here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come" (KJV). As followers of Christ, we are called to live as sojourners and pilgrims, recognizing that our true home is not in this world but in the eternal Kingdom of God.

Practical Application

Understanding the meaning of Matthew 8:20 has practical implications for how Christians live their lives today. It challenges believers to examine their priorities and to consider whether they are truly willing to follow Jesus, even when it requires sacrifice and discomfort. It calls Christians to live with a sense of mission, always seeking to advance the Kingdom of God and to serve others in Jesus' name.

Moreover, this verse encourages believers to find their security and rest in God rather than in earthly possessions or circumstances. In a world that often prioritizes material wealth and comfort, Jesus' example calls Christians to a different way of living—one that is marked by faith, dependence on God, and a commitment to His purposes.

Conclusion

Matthew 8:20 is a powerful and challenging verse that reveals the nature of Jesus' ministry, the cost of discipleship, and the transient nature of earthly life. By declaring that "the Son of man hath not where to lay his head," Jesus underscores His identification with the human condition, His commitment to His divine mission, and the sacrificial nature of following Him.

As Christians reflect on this verse, they are called to follow Jesus' example, living with a sense of mission and purpose, prioritizing the Kingdom of God, and finding their ultimate security in Him. This verse serves as a reminder that the path of discipleship is not always easy, but it is a path that leads to eternal life and the fulfillment of God's redemptive purposes in the world.