What is the meaning of Matthew 20:29? As they were leaving Jericho “As they were leaving Jericho” (Matthew 20:29) roots the scene in a real, well-known city. • Jericho had witnessed God’s power before—its walls fell in Joshua 6, showing the Lord’s ability to make a way for His people. The same God is now on the road in human flesh (John 1:14; Colossians 2:9). • Jesus is moving steadily toward Jerusalem and the cross (Matthew 20:17-19). Like Elijah leaving Jericho on his final journey (2 Kings 2:4-6), Jesus prepares to complete His earthly mission. • Mark 10:46 and Luke 18:35 record the same departure, underscoring the historicity of the moment and setting the stage for the healing of two blind men that immediately follows (Matthew 20:30-34). A large crowd Matthew emphasizes that “a large crowd” is present. • Crowds had followed Jesus from Galilee, the Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judea, and beyond the Jordan (Matthew 4:25). The size here reminds us of His magnetism and the hope He stirred in ordinary people (Matthew 12:15; Mark 3:7-8). • Their presence fulfills prophetic expectation: “In His name the nations will put their hope” (Matthew 12:21). • Many in the crowd are pilgrims heading to Passover (Deuteronomy 16:16). Jesus is the true Passover Lamb they will unknowingly watch be sacrificed (1 Corinthians 5:7). Followed Him The crowd “followed Him,” yet not all did so with saving faith. • Some sought miracles (John 6:2); others were curious observers (Luke 23:27). Still, Scripture presents following Jesus as the essential posture of a disciple (Matthew 16:24; John 10:27). • Physical following can lead to spiritual sight. The two blind men cry out from within this crowd and receive both healing and insight into Christ’s messianic identity (Matthew 20:30-34; Isaiah 35:5-6). • Genuine followers move from curiosity to commitment—seen later when many in Jerusalem “continued in the apostles’ teaching” after Pentecost (Acts 2:42). summary Matthew 20:29 places Jesus on the Jericho road with a throng at His heels, highlighting three truths: (1) the Lord moves purposefully through real history toward redemption, (2) His life and words draw people in great numbers, and (3) only those who truly follow in faith find the sight and salvation He offers. |
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