Book of Matthew - Chapter 17 - Verse 12

The verse "But I say unto you, That Elias is come already, and they knew him not, but have done unto him whatsoever they listed. Likewise shall also the Son of man suffer of them" from the Bible, specifically the Gospel of Matthew, Chapter 17, Verse 12, refers to the prophecy of the coming of Elias (Elijah) before the arrival of the Messiah. In this verse, Jesus is explaining to his disciples that John the Baptist, who came in the spirit and power of Elias, was the fulfillment of this prophecy. However, the people did not recognize him as such and instead mistreated him. Jesus goes on to warn his disciples that in the same way John suffered, he too will suffer at the hands of those who reject him. This verse serves as a reminder of the rejection and suffering that prophets and messengers of God often face, even when fulfilling important roles in the fulfillment of divine plans.

In this verse, Jesus is referring to John the Baptist as Elias (Elijah) who had already come into the world before Him, fulfilling the prophecy in Malachi 4:5. The people did not recognize John the Baptist as the fulfillment of this prophecy, just as they did not acknowledge Elijah when he came centuries before. The reference to doing "whatever they pleased" to him emphasizes the persecution and mistreatment that John the Baptist faced at the hands of those who did not accept his message. This serves as a stark warning to the listeners that the Son of Man, referring to Jesus himself, would also face suffering and rejection at the hands of the people. This foreshadows the crucifixion and ultimate sacrifice that Jesus would make for humanity's redemption. This verse highlights the pattern of rejection faced by messengers of God and serves as a reminder of the suffering that may come to those who choose to follow in Christ's footsteps.