Matthew 23:37-39·~1 min
Lament over Jerusalem
Jesus laments Jerusalem as the city that kills prophets and stones those sent to her, and he speaks of his repeated desire to gather her children like a hen gathers her chicks.
O37 Jerusalem, Jerusalem, who kills the prophets and stones those sent to her, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were unwilling!
Her house is left desolate.
38Look, your house is left to you desolate.
Jesus says they will not see him again until they bless the one who comes in the name of the Lord.
39For I tell you that you will not see Me again until you say, ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord.’ ”
Section summaryJesus turns from rebuke to lament over Jerusalem, the city known for killing prophets and stoning messengers. He names his desire to gather her children, states the refusal that meets him, and leaves her house desolate until he is welcomed in the Lord’s name.
Role in the chapterThis closing movement shifts from accusation to grief and leaves the city with judgment spoken and recognition delayed.