Matthew 4:13

  1. Home
  2. KJV Bible
  3. Matthew 4
  4. Matthew 4:13

Old Testament

Genesis Exodus Leviticus Numbers Deuteronomy Joshua Judges Ruth 1 Samuel 2 Samuel 1 Kings 2 Kings 1 Chronicles 2 Chronicles Ezra Nehemiah Esther Job Psalms Proverbs Ecclesiastes Song of Solomon Isaiah Jeremiah Lamentations Ezekiel Daniel Hosea Joel Amos Obadiah Jonah Micah Nahum Habakkuk Zephaniah Haggai Zechariah Malachi

New Testament

Matthew Mark Luke John Acts Romans 1 Corinthians 2 Corinthians Galatians Ephesians Philippians Colossians 1 Thessalonians 2 Thessalonians 1 Timothy 2 Timothy Titus Philemon Hebrews James 1 Peter 2 Peter 1 John 2 John 3 John Jude Revelation

Chapter

Matthew 1 Matthew 2 Matthew 3 Matthew 4 Matthew 5 Matthew 6 Matthew 7 Matthew 8 Matthew 9 Matthew 10 Matthew 11 Matthew 12 Matthew 13 Matthew 14 Matthew 15 Matthew 16 Matthew 17 Matthew 18 Matthew 19 Matthew 20 Matthew 21 Matthew 22 Matthew 23 Matthew 24 Matthew 25 Matthew 26 Matthew 27 Matthew 28

Verse

Matthew 4:1 Matthew 4:2 Matthew 4:3 Matthew 4:4 Matthew 4:5 Matthew 4:6 Matthew 4:7 Matthew 4:8 Matthew 4:9 Matthew 4:10 Matthew 4:11 Matthew 4:12 Matthew 4:13 Matthew 4:14 Matthew 4:15 Matthew 4:16 Matthew 4:17 Matthew 4:18 Matthew 4:19 Matthew 4:20 Matthew 4:21 Matthew 4:22 Matthew 4:23 Matthew 4:24 Matthew 4:25

Matthew 4:13 KJV

And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim:

Previous Verse
« Matthew 4:12
Next Verse
Matthew 4:14 »

Matthew 4:13 Bible Commentary

Commentary on Matthew 4:13

Matthew 4:13 states: "And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim." This verse marks a significant transition in the ministry of Jesus as He begins to move from His hidden life in Nazareth to a more prominent public ministry in Capernaum. The implications of this move are rich and multifaceted, worthy of in-depth exploration.

Contextual Analysis

The move from Nazareth to Capernaum not only reflects a geographical change but also highlights a change in the nature of Jesus' ministry. Matthew Henry notes that Nazareth represents a place of familiarity and a lack of faith from the residents. In contrast, Capernaum symbolizes a new phase where Jesus would perform many miracles and teach with authority.

Geographical Significance

Capernaum, located on the northwestern shore of the Sea of Galilee, was a bustling town. Adam Clarke points out that it served as an ideal location for Jesus' ministry due to its commercial and trade significance. The movement to the shores of Galilee allowed Him to reach a wider audience, both Jews and Gentiles. The mention of Zabulon and Nephthalim connects this event with Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah (Isaiah 9:1-2), where regions of darkness would see a great light.

Theological Implications

Albert Barnes emphasizes that Jesus' relocation is not merely logistical but holds deep theological significance. By leaving Nazareth, He demonstrates a rejection of the unbelief prevalent in that town. The passage also serves as an illustration of God’s sovereignty in guiding His Son towards His mission. Matthew Henry adds that Jesus willingly chose to be where He could fulfill His divine purposes more effectively.

Symbolism of Capernaum

Capernaum, therefore, becomes a symbol of both refuge and outreach. As Henry indicates, it became the headquarters from which Jesus would launch His public ministry and perform many miracles, indicative of His mission to bring hope and healing. This transition signifies God's grace expanding beyond a singular place or people, as Jesus ushered in the Kingdom of God.

Application for Believers

For pastors and theologians, this verse prompts critical reflections on the nature of calling and ministry. As Jesus left behind the familiar for the mission that lay ahead, so too are believers encouraged to step beyond their comfort zones. Clarke notes that Capernaum's receptivity to Jesus' ministry can motivate contemporary believers to create environments conducive to God's work.

  • Pastoral Application: In ministry, geographical and situational shifts can lead to divine opportunities for growth and outreach.
  • Individual Application: Believers should be willing to leave behind their comfort zones in answer to God’s calling, much like Jesus did.
  • Theological Insight: Understanding the significance of Jesus’ choice of Capernaum can deepen one’s appreciation for the sovereignty of God in shaping ministry contexts.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Matthew 4:13 encapsulates a pivotal moment in the Gospel narrative where Jesus transitions from obscurity to a ministry marked by miracle and teaching in Capernaum. Through the insights of Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, we glean a deeper understanding of the geographical, theological, and practical implications of this verse. As South Galilee becomes the stage for Jesus' ministry, it challenges modern believers to consider how they can respond to God’s sovereign leading in their own lives and ministries.

Matthew 4 (KJV) Verse Selection

Matthew 4:1 Matthew 4:2 Matthew 4:3 Matthew 4:4 Matthew 4:5 Matthew 4:6 Matthew 4:7 Matthew 4:8 Matthew 4:9 Matthew 4:10 Matthew 4:11 Matthew 4:12 Matthew 4:13 Matthew 4:14 Matthew 4:15 Matthew 4:16 Matthew 4:17 Matthew 4:18 Matthew 4:19 Matthew 4:20 Matthew 4:21 Matthew 4:22 Matthew 4:23 Matthew 4:24 Matthew 4:25

KJV Bible Books

KJV Bible Books and Chapters »