LUKE 16:16 (MATTHEW 11:12)

Q: What does trying to enter the Kingdom by force mean?

“The law and the prophets were in effect until John came; since then the good news of the kingdom of God is proclaimed, and everyone tries to enter it by force.” Luke 16:16

(NRSV note has alternative translation: “Everyone is strongly urged to enter it.”)

“From the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven has suffered violence, and the violent take it by force.” Matthew 11:12

(NRSV note has alternative translation: “has been coming violently.”)

There is controversy over whether the two versions have the same basic meaning, or whether a single saying has been interpreted in two different ways by the two Gospel writers. It is hard to translate because verb tense is ambiguous. Commentators disagree among themselves as to the most likely meaning for these two passages.

Those trying to take the kingdom by force are:

ordinary people eager to enter (they must make an effort to do so, accompanied by renunciations and opposition).

    Satan and demonic forces.

    Zealots attempting to force God's hand by resorting to violent action against Roman authorities.

    men like the Pharisees who opposed the gospel.

    The Pharisees, who tried to bring about the kingdom through fasting, Bible study, etc.

    Herod Antipas and other Roman opposition.

    “wolves in sheep's clothing” within the Christian body.

Or these verses could be interpreted to say that the Kingdom forces its way in despite opposition.