translation_id: net-engnet

book_id: MAT

label: NET study note

text: See the note on synagogues in 4:23 .


text: The term translated room refers to the inner room of a house, normally without any windows opening outside, the most private location possible (BDAG 988 s.v. ταμεῖον 2).


text: Pray this way. What follows, although traditionally known as the Lord’s prayer, is really the disciples’ prayer. It represents how they are to approach God, by acknowledging his uniqueness and their need for his provision and protection.


text: God is addressed in terms of intimacy ( Father ). The original Semitic term here was probably Abba . The term is a little unusual in a personal prayer, especially as it lacks qualification. It is not the exact equivalent of “daddy” (as is sometimes popularly suggested), but it does suggest a close, familial relationship.


text: Your kingdom come represents the hope for the full manifestation of God’s promised rule.


text: Seeking heavenly treasure means serving others and honoring God by doing so.


text: The contrast between hate and love here is rhetorical. The point is that one will choose the favorite if a choice has to be made.


text: The phrase even more is a typical form of rabbinic argumentation, from the lesser to the greater. If God cares for the little things, surely he will care for the more important things.


text: includes the words in brackets, indicating doubt as to their authenticity. God’s kingdom is a major theme of Jesus. It is a realm in which Jesus rules and to which those who trust him belong.