The Beheading of John 1At that time Herod the tetrarch heard the reports about Jesus 2and said to his servants, “This is John the Baptist; he has risen from the dead! That is why miraculous powers are at work in him.” 3Now Herod had arrested John and bound him and put him in prison on account of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, 4because John had been telling him, “It is not lawful for you to have her.” 5Although Herod wanted to kill John, he was afraid of the people, because they regarded John as a prophet. 6On Herod’s birthday, however, the daughter of Herodias danced before them and pleased Herod 7so much that he promised with an oath to give to her whatever she asked. 8Prompted by her mother, she said, “Give me here on a platter the head of John the Baptist.” 9The king was grieved, but because of his oaths and his guests, he ordered that her wish be granted 10and sent to have John beheaded in the prison. 11John’s head was brought in on a platter and presented to the girl, who carried it to her mother. 12Then John’s disciples came and took his body and buried it. And they went and informed Jesus. The Feeding of the Five Thousand 13When Jesus heard about John, He withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place. But the crowds found out about it and followed Him on foot from the towns. 14When He stepped ashore and saw a large crowd, He had compassion on them and healed their sick. 15When evening came, the disciples came to Him and said, “This is a desolate place, and the hour is already late. Dismiss the crowds so they can go to the villages and buy themselves some food.” 16“They do not need to go away,” Jesus replied. “You give them something to eat.” 17“We have here only five loaves of bread and two fish,” they answered. 18“Bring them here to Me,” Jesus said. 19And He directed the crowds to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, He spoke a blessing. Then He broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people. 20They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. 21About five thousand men were fed, besides women and children. Jesus Walks on Water 22Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of Him to the other side, while He dismissed the crowds. 23After He had dismissed them, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. When evening came, He was there alone, 24but the boat was already fara from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it. 25During the fourth watch of the night,b Jesus went out to them, walking on the sea. 26When the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost!” they said, and cried out in fear. 27But Jesus spoke up at once: “Take courage! It is I. Do not be afraid.” 28“Lord, if it is You,” Peter replied, “command me to come to You on the water.” 29“Come,” said Jesus. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water, and came toward Jesus. 30But when he saw the strength of the wind,c he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!” 31Immediately Jesus reached out His hand and took hold of Peter. “You of little faith,” He said, “why did you doubt?” 32And when they had climbed back into the boat, the wind died down. 33Then those who were in the boat worshiped Him, saying, “Truly You are the Son of God!” Jesus Heals at Gennesaret 34When they had crossed over, they landed at Gennesaret. 35And when the men of that place recognized Jesus, they sent word to all the surrounding region. People brought all the sick to Him 36and begged Him just to let them touch the fringe of His cloak. And all who touched Him were healed. Footnotes: 24 a Greek many stadia; a stadion was about 607 feet or 185 meters 25 b That is, between three and six in the morning 30 c Literally when he saw the strong wind; NE and WH do not include strong. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  Matthew 14 Summary The Beheading of JohnVerses 1–12 – Herod and John the Baptist Verses 13–21 – Feeding of the Five Thousand Verses 22–33 – Jesus Walks on Water Verses 34–36 – Healings at Gennesaret Matthew 14 is an emotionally charged chapter filled with tragic death, miraculous feats, and profound lessons on faith and compassion. The chapter begins with the demise of John the Baptist, followed by two of Jesus' most famous miracles: the feeding of five thousand and walking on water. Historical Background of Herod Antipas • Herod Antipas ruled Galilee and Perea (4 BC–AD 39). • His capital Tiberias overlooked the Sea of Galilee; John likely jailed at nearby Machaerus. • His illicit marriage to Herodias broke Leviticus 18:16. John’s bold rebuke cost him his life, echoing prophets who confronted kings (2 Samuel 12:1-14; 1 Kings 18). John the Baptist: Forerunner and Martyr • John’s death foreshadows Jesus’ own. Both suffer under weak rulers swayed by political pressure (Matthew 27:24). • Isaiah 40:3 and Malachi 3:1 foretold John’s role; Matthew presents him as the last Old-Covenant prophet passing the baton to the Messiah. Miracle of Multiplication: Compassion and Provision • Jesus heals first, then feeds—body and soul. Compare Exodus 16 (manna) and 2 Kings 4:42-44 (Elisha’s bread miracle). • Twelve baskets left align with the twelve tribes/disciples, signaling sufficiency for Israel. • This miracle is the only one besides the resurrection recorded in all four Gospels (Mark 6, Luke 9, John 6). Walking on Water: Display of Divine Authority • Job 9:8 states God “treads on the waves of the sea.” Jesus visibly embodies that text. • “It is I” (Greek: ego eimi) recalls God’s self-revelation in Exodus 3:14. • The calming of wind parallels Psalm 107:28-30. Faith and Doubt: Peter’s Lesson • Peter steps out in faith; sinking occurs when focus shifts from Jesus to danger. Hebrews 12:2 urges believers to fix eyes on Jesus. • Jesus rescues despite “little faith,” proving grace prevails over weakness. Geography and Archaeology of the Events • The “remote place” likely northeastern shore near Bethsaida; grassy slopes identified north of Tabgha fit John 6:10’s mention of grass. • Evening winds on the Sea of Galilee can create sudden squalls; fishermen disciples would recognize their peril. • Gennesaret plain, south of Capernaum, is fertile, matching crowds seeking healing. Messianic Identity Confirmed • Feeding miracle echoes Moses yet surpasses him, hinting at the promised Prophet (Deuteronomy 18:15). • Water-walking and wind-stilling confirm Psalm 89:9: “You rule the surging sea.” • The disciples’ worship marks a midpoint confession of Jesus’ divine Sonship, leading toward Peter’s later declaration (Matthew 16:16). Discipleship Principles Highlighted 1. Compassion precedes ministry: Jesus ministers even while grieving (v.13-14). 2. God uses what we bring, however small (five loaves, two fish). 3. Obedience often precedes understanding—disciples seat the crowd before seeing food multiplied (v.18-19). 4. Faith grows through storms; trials become classrooms (James 1:2-4). Connections to the Old Testament • John’s execution mirrors Elijah-Ahab conflict; Herodias parallels Jezebel. • Twelve baskets recall twelve-stone memorials (Joshua 4) and future restoration of Israel (Isaiah 49:6). • Fringe-touch healings reflect Numbers 15:38-39; the tassels remind of God’s commands and power. Parallels in the Other Gospels • Mark 6 adds detail: Jesus sees the crowd “like sheep without a shepherd” (Ezekiel 34 motif). • John 6 links feeding to “I am the Bread of Life” discourse, reinforcing spiritual nourishment. • Luke 9 highlights Jesus’ kingdom teaching before feeding, framing miracles as signs of rule. Application for Today • Speak truth regardless of cost, as John did. • Bring limited resources to Jesus; expect multiplication. • In life’s storms, keep eyes on Christ, not circumstances. • Worship arises naturally when we witness His power. Connections to Additional Scriptures Philippians 4:19And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus. Isaiah 41:10 Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. Hebrews 12:2 Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith. Teaching Points The Death of John the Baptist (Matthew 14:1-12)Herod's fear and guilt over John the Baptist's death highlight the consequences of living contrary to God's will. John the Baptist's unwavering commitment to truth, even unto death, serves as a powerful example of faithfulness. Feeding the Five Thousand (Matthew 14:13-21) Jesus' compassion is evident as He heals the sick and feeds the multitude, demonstrating His care for both spiritual and physical needs. The miracle of the loaves and fish illustrates Jesus' ability to provide abundantly beyond our limited resources. Jesus Walks on Water (Matthew 14:22-33) Jesus' command over nature reveals His divine authority and reassures us of His presence in our storms. Peter's initial faith and subsequent doubt teach us about the importance of keeping our eyes on Jesus, especially when fear arises. Healing the Sick in Gennesaret (Matthew 14:34-36) The people's faith in Jesus' healing power is evident as they bring the sick to Him, believing even touching His garment would bring healing. This passage underscores the importance of faith and the transformative power of Jesus' touch. Practical Applications Trust in Jesus' ProvisionIn times of need, remember that Jesus can multiply our resources and provide for us in unexpected ways. Faith in the Storms When facing life's challenges, focus on Jesus rather than the circumstances, trusting in His power and presence. Boldness in Truth Like John the Baptist, stand firm in your convictions, even when it is unpopular or risky. Seek Jesus' Healing Bring your physical, emotional, and spiritual needs to Jesus, trusting in His ability to heal and restore. People 1. Herod the TetrarchHerod Antipas, referred to as "Herod the tetrarch," is the ruler of Galilee and Perea. He is the son of Herod the Great and is responsible for the imprisonment and execution of John the Baptist. The term "tetrarch" comes from the Greek "τετράρχης" (tetrarchēs), meaning a ruler of a quarter. 2. John the Baptist John is a prophet and the forerunner of Jesus, known for his call to repentance and baptism. He is imprisoned and later beheaded by Herod at the request of Herodias' daughter. His role is significant in preparing the way for Jesus. 3. Herodias Herodias is the wife of Herod's brother Philip and later becomes Herod's wife. She holds a grudge against John the Baptist for condemning her marriage to Herod, which leads to John's execution. 4. Herodias' Daughter Although not named in this chapter, she is traditionally known as Salome. She dances for Herod and his guests, pleasing him so much that he promises to grant her any request, which leads to the beheading of John the Baptist. 5. Jesus Jesus is the central figure of the New Testament, performing miracles such as feeding the five thousand and walking on water in this chapter. His actions demonstrate his divine authority and compassion. 6. The Disciples The disciples are the followers of Jesus who assist in distributing the loaves and fish to the five thousand and witness Jesus walking on water. They are key figures in learning from and spreading Jesus' teachings. 7. Peter Peter is one of Jesus' closest disciples. In this chapter, he attempts to walk on water towards Jesus but begins to sink due to his doubt, highlighting his faith journey. Places 1. Herod's PalaceThis is where Herod Antipas, the tetrarch, held a banquet during which John the Baptist was beheaded. The palace is not explicitly named in the text, but it is implied as the setting for the events described in verses 1-12. 2. Desolate Place After hearing about John the Baptist's death, Jesus withdrew by boat to a solitary or desolate place (Matthew 14:13). The Greek term used here is "ἔρημος" (erēmos), which means a deserted or uninhabited area. This is where the feeding of the five thousand took place. 3. Sea of Galilee Although not directly named in this chapter, the Sea of Galilee is the body of water Jesus crossed by boat to reach the desolate place (Matthew 14:13) and later walked on to reach His disciples (Matthew 14:25). The Greek term "θάλασσα" (thalassa) is used for sea. 4. Gennesaret After Jesus walked on water and calmed the storm, they landed at Gennesaret (Matthew 14:34). Gennesaret is a fertile plain on the northwest shore of the Sea of Galilee, known for its rich soil and agriculture. Events 1. The Death of John the BaptistHerod Antipas hears about Jesus and believes He is John the Baptist risen from the dead. Herod had previously ordered John's execution at the request of Herodias' daughter, following her dance at his birthday feast. This event highlights the moral corruption and political intrigue of Herod's court. ^Reference: Matthew 14:1-12^ 2. Feeding of the Five Thousand After hearing of John's death, Jesus withdraws by boat to a solitary place. However, the crowds follow Him on foot. Moved with compassion, Jesus heals their sick and later miraculously feeds about five thousand men, besides women and children, with five loaves and two fish. This miracle demonstrates Jesus' divine provision and foreshadows the Eucharist. ^Reference: Matthew 14:13-21^ 3. Jesus Walks on Water After feeding the multitude, Jesus sends His disciples ahead by boat while He dismisses the crowd and goes up on a mountainside to pray. During the night, the disciples' boat is buffeted by waves. Jesus walks on the water towards them, and Peter briefly walks on water too, until he doubts and begins to sink. Jesus saves him, and the disciples worship Jesus, acknowledging Him as the Son of God. This event emphasizes Jesus' mastery over nature and His divine identity. ^Reference: Matthew 14:22-33^ 4. Healing in Gennesaret After crossing over, Jesus and His disciples land at Gennesaret. The people recognize Jesus and bring all their sick to Him, begging to touch the fringe of His cloak. All who touch it are healed. This passage underscores Jesus' healing power and the faith of the people. The Greek term for "fringe" (κράσπεδον, kraspedon) refers to the tassels worn on garments, which were a symbol of piety and obedience to God's commandments. ^Reference: Matthew 14:34-36^ Topics 1. The Death of John the BaptistHerod Antipas, influenced by Herodias, orders the beheading of John the Baptist. This event is a fulfillment of John's prophetic role and a testament to his unwavering commitment to truth. The Greek term "μαθητής" (mathētēs) is used to describe John's disciples who came to bury his body, emphasizing their role as learners and followers. 2. Feeding the Five Thousand Jesus performs the miracle of feeding five thousand men, besides women and children, with five loaves and two fish. This event demonstrates Jesus' compassion and divine provision. The Greek word "εὐλογέω" (eulogeō), meaning "to bless," is used when Jesus blesses the loaves, highlighting the act of giving thanks and consecrating the food. 3. Jesus Walks on Water Jesus walks on the Sea of Galilee to reach His disciples' boat, demonstrating His authority over nature. Peter briefly walks on water but begins to sink due to doubt. The Greek word "θαρσέω" (tharseō), meaning "take courage," is used by Jesus to reassure His disciples, emphasizing the call to faith and trust in Him. 4. Healing the Sick in Gennesaret Upon reaching Gennesaret, Jesus heals all who touch the fringe of His cloak. This passage underscores Jesus' healing power and the faith of those who sought Him. The Greek term "κρασπέδον" (kraspedon), referring to the fringe or tassel of Jesus' cloak, is significant as it relates to the Jewish practice of wearing tassels as a reminder of God's commandments. Themes 1. The Cost of Discipleship and Prophetic BoldnessThis theme is illustrated in the account of John the Baptist's imprisonment and execution. John boldly spoke against Herod's unlawful marriage, demonstrating the cost of standing for truth. Matthew 14:4 states, "because John had been telling him, 'It is not lawful for you to have her.'" The Greek word for "lawful" (ἔξεστιν, exestin) emphasizes the moral and legal boundaries that John upheld. 2. Jesus' Compassion and Healing After hearing of John's death, Jesus withdraws to a solitary place, but the crowds follow Him. Despite His own grief, Jesus shows compassion by healing the sick. Matthew 14:14 says, "When He stepped ashore and saw a large crowd, He had compassion on them and healed their sick." The Greek word for "compassion" (σπλαγχνίζομαι, splagchnizomai) conveys a deep, visceral empathy. 3. Divine Provision and the Miracle of the Loaves and Fishes The feeding of the five thousand demonstrates Jesus' ability to provide abundantly. In Matthew 14:19, Jesus takes five loaves and two fish, looks up to heaven, and blesses them. The act of looking up to heaven (ἀναβλέψας, anablepsas) signifies reliance on divine provision. 4. Faith and Doubt in the Walk on Water Peter's attempt to walk on water towards Jesus highlights the interplay of faith and doubt. When Peter begins to sink, Jesus immediately reaches out to save him, saying in Matthew 14:31, "You of little faith, why did you doubt?" The Greek word for "doubt" (διστάζω, distazō) suggests a wavering or hesitation in belief. 5. Recognition of Jesus' Divine Authority After Jesus calms the storm and enters the boat, the disciples worship Him, acknowledging His divine authority. Matthew 14:33 states, "Then those who were in the boat worshiped Him, saying, 'Truly You are the Son of God.'" The act of worship (προσκυνέω, proskyneō) indicates reverence and recognition of Jesus' divine nature. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Matthew 14:25, how is it scientifically possible for Jesus to walk on water? 2. In Matthew 14:15–21, how can five loaves and two fish realistically feed thousands of people? 3. Why is there no known extra-biblical historical record of these miracles in Matthew 14? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does John the Baptist's death impact your understanding of martyrdom for the faith? 2. What does Jesus' reaction to John the Baptist's death teach about handling grief? 3. How does the miracle of feeding the five thousand challenge your faith in God's provision? 4. What lessons about faith and doubt can you learn from Peter walking on water? 5. How would you react if you were one of the disciples in the boat seeing Jesus walking on water? 6. What can you learn about Jesus' character from His response to the crowd following Him? 7. What can you learn from Herod's actions and his fear of John the Baptist? 8. How does Jesus' miracle of feeding the multitude influence your understanding of His compassion? 9. How can the story of Jesus walking on water inspire you during tough times in your life? 10. How does the reaction of the disciples in the boat ("Truly you are the Son of God") resonate with your personal faith journey? 11. How can you practically imitate Jesus' compassion as seen in this chapter? 12. If you were in Peter's position, what do you think your reaction would have been on the water? 13. How can you apply the lesson from Peter's experience when you face doubts in your faith journey? 14. What practical steps can you take to build a faith that trusts God's provision as shown in the feeding of the five thousand? 15. How does Herod's fear and guilt affect your understanding of the consequences of sin? 16. What does the crowd's persistent following of Jesus teach about the human yearning for healing and truth? 17. How does Jesus' time alone in prayer influence your personal prayer life? 18. What does the disciples' fear in the storm reveal about common human reactions to the unknown or supernatural? 19. How does the crowd's reaction to Jesus' healing at Gennesaret inspire your faith in Jesus' power? 20. How can the miracles in this chapter shape your understanding of Jesus' divinity and Messiahship? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions |
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