Commentators agree that this proverb quoted by Jesus was a common truism that was expressed in different variations in the ancient Jewish and Pagan world (see also Luke 4:24 and John 4:44). The variation of this truism is made even more potent and personal by Jesus himself. There are the three concentric circles which start with the most general hometown
to the more specific relatives,
and finally to the most specific, his own household
.1
Furthermore, the use of this saying can also be a referral back to many of the prophets of the Old Testament who more often than not, were rejected by their own people when they brought the truth of God’s Word.2
4 And Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor, except in his hometown and among his relatives and in his own household.”