Matthew 17:13

13 Then the disciples understood that he was talking to them about John the Baptist.

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 "Elijah is indeed coming first," answered Jesus, "and he will get everything ready.

12 But I tell you that Elijah has already come and people did not recognize him, but treated him just as they pleased. In the same way they will also mistreat the Son of Man."

13 Then the disciples understood that he was talking to them about John the Baptist.

14 When they returned to the crowd, a man came to Jesus, knelt before him,

15 and said, "Sir, have mercy on my son! He is an epileptic and has such terrible attacks that he often falls in the fire or into water.