Bible Commentary on Matthew 14:35

Verse Overview: Matthew 14:35 states, “And when the men of that place had knowledge of Him, they sent out into all that country round about, and brought unto Him all that were diseased.” This passage reflects the response of the people in Gennesaret when they recognized Jesus and His healing power.

Contextual Analysis

Matthew 14 depicts the events following the miraculous feeding of the 5,000 and the account of Jesus walking on water. After these remarkable events, Jesus crosses over to the land of Gennesaret. The reactions of the people provide significant insight into their understanding of Jesus' ministry.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry highlights the urgency and gusto with which the people of Gennesaret sought out Jesus. He notes that the local populace, having observed His miracles, acted on their knowledge to bring the sick to Him:

• The recognition of Jesus: The men of Gennesaret recognized His divine authority and healing power, a theme prevalent throughout the Gospels.
• Acts of faith: Their actions are a demonstration of faith; they acted upon their knowledge, acknowledging Jesus as the source of their healing.
• Community aspect: This passage shows collective participation in seeking Jesus, which underlines the importance of community in faith activities.

Albert Barnes' Commentary

Albert Barnes elaborates on the implications of sending word throughout the country about Jesus’ arrival:

• Public acknowledgment: Barnes emphasizes that knowledge of Jesus was proclaimed openly, suggesting that His reputation was widespread, leading the diseased to seek His help.
• Obedience in faith: The act of bringing the sick to Jesus illustrates obedience to the call of faith and highlights the need for diligent pursuit of Christ by believers.
• Symbolism of healing: This pursuit symbolizes not just physical healing, but a deeper spiritual necessity for salvation, as people needed to bring their ailments, both physical and spiritual, before Jesus.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke presents a detailed view reflecting on the socio-cultural aspects of this gathering:

• The desperate need for healing: Clarke suggests that the multitude's approach to Jesus could be seen as an acknowledgment of their desperate situation.
• The nature of faith: He emphasizes that those who sought Jesus not only had physical ailments but also exercised a degree of faith in His power to heal, representing an integral part of Christian life.
• Encouragement for evangelistic efforts: Clarke points out that the actions of the people serve as an encouragement to believers in the commission to spread the Gospel and seek people in need of spiritual healing.

Theological Reflections

This passage allows for several theological reflections meaningful for pastors, students, and scholars:

• The nature of Christ's ministry: The eagerness of people to bring the sick to Jesus underlines His role as the healer and savior, affirming the necessity of Christ in the life of believers.
• Faith in action: The importance of practical faith is illustrated as faith is not merely cognitive but requires action; it encourages believers to actively seek Jesus’ healing presence.
• The communal aspect of faith: The corporate action of bringing the sick illustrates how faith can be a communal experience, encouraging and uplifting each other within the body of Christ.

Conclusion

Matthew 14:35 serves as a profound reminder of the recognition of Jesus as the healer in our lives. The thoughtful actions of the people of Gennesaret reflect attributes of faith, urgency, and community that are essential in the life of any believer. Drawing from historical commentaries offers a deeper understanding of the text and encourages deeper engagement with Christ's mission.