Matthew 17:13

13 Then the disciples understood that he spoke to them of John the Baptizer.

Matthew 17:13 Meaning and Commentary

Matthew 17:13

Then the disciples understood
By his saying that Elias was come, and by the account he gave of his ill usage, it was clear to them,

that he spake unto them of John the Baptist;
and that he was the Elias that was to come, and was come: so that this observation, that according to prophecy Elias was to come before the Messiah, was no objection to Jesus being the Messiah; but on the contrary, since he that was intended by Elias was come, and had done his work and office, it was a confirmation of the truth of his Messiahship.

Matthew 17:13 In-Context

11 Jesus answered them, "Elijah indeed comes first, and will restore all things,

12 but I tell you that Elijah has come already, and they didn't recognize him, but did to him whatever they wanted to. Even so will the Son of Man also suffer by them."

13 Then the disciples understood that he spoke to them of John the Baptizer.

14 When they came to the multitude, there came to him a man, kneeling to him, saying,

15 "Lord, have mercy on my son, for he is epileptic, and suffers grievously; for he often falls into the fire, and often into the water.