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Matthew 4:13

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

And {G2532} leaving {G2641} Nazareth {G3478}, he came {G2064} and dwelt {G2730} in {G1519} Capernaum {G2584}, which {G3588} is upon the sea coast {G3864}, in {G1722} the borders {G3725} of Zabulon {G2194} and {G2532} Nephthalim {G3508}:

but he left Natzeret and came to live in K'far-Nachum, a lake shore town near the boundary between Z'vulun and Naftali.

Leaving Nazareth, He went and lived in Capernaum, which is by the sea in the region of Zebulun and Naphtali,

and leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is by the sea, in the borders of Zebulun and Naphtali:

Commentary

Matthew 4:13 describes a pivotal moment in Jesus' early ministry, marking his departure from Nazareth and the establishment of his base in Capernaum on the Sea of Galilee.

Context

This verse follows Jesus' temptation in the wilderness and his return to Galilee. Upon hearing that John the Baptist had been imprisoned, Jesus withdrew from Judea. His decision to leave Nazareth, his hometown where he had grown up, and move to Capernaum was significant. Nazareth was a small, somewhat isolated village, while Capernaum was a bustling town strategically located on trade routes along the Sea of Galilee, within the historical regions of Zabulon and Nephthalim.

Key Themes

  • Relocation of Ministry: Jesus' move signifies a shift in the location of his primary work and teaching.
  • Fulfillment of Prophecy: As the subsequent verses (Matthew 4:14-16) explain, this move directly fulfills an Old Testament prophecy regarding the Messiah's work in this specific region (see Isaiah 9:1-2).
  • Bringing Light to Galilee: Establishing himself in Capernaum, situated in "Galilee of the Gentiles," highlights his mission to bring the gospel not just to the religious heartland but also to the more diverse, outlying areas.

Historical and Cultural Context

Capernaum (KJV: Capernaum) was a prosperous fishing village and a customs station on the northwest shore of the Sea of Galilee. Its location made it a hub of activity. The regions of Zabulon and Nephthalim (or Zebulun and Naphtali) were historical tribal territories in northern Israel, part of the larger region of Galilee. This area had a mixed Jewish and Gentile population and was often looked down upon by those in Judea, yet it became the primary stage for Jesus' initial public ministry, including many of his miracles and teachings.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "dwelt in Capernaum" indicates that Jesus made this town his temporary home and base of operations. The description "upon the sea coast" simply refers to its location by the Sea of Galilee. The mention of "the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim" anchors the location specifically within the prophetic geography of the Old Testament.

Significance and Application

Jesus' deliberate move demonstrates his obedience to the Father's plan and his commitment to fulfilling prophecy. It shows that God's light is intended for all people, including those in less prominent or even marginalized areas ("Galilee of the Gentiles"). For us today, this verse reminds us that God often calls us to new places or situations to carry out His work. It encourages us to be open to relocating or shifting our focus if that is where God leads, trusting that He has a purpose for us in every location, just as Jesus had a purpose in Capernaum and the surrounding regions.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Mark 1:21 (5 votes)

    And they went into Capernaum; and straightway on the sabbath day he entered into the synagogue, and taught.

  • John 4:46 (5 votes)

    So Jesus came again into Cana of Galilee, where he made the water wine. And there was a certain nobleman, whose son was sick at Capernaum.

  • Matthew 11:23 (4 votes)

    And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted unto heaven, shalt be brought down to hell: for if the mighty works, which have been done in thee, had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day.

  • John 6:24 (3 votes)

    When the people therefore saw that Jesus was not there, neither his disciples, they also took shipping, and came to Capernaum, seeking for Jesus.

  • Luke 4:30 (3 votes)

    But he passing through the midst of them went his way,

  • Luke 4:31 (3 votes)

    ¶ And came down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee, and taught them on the sabbath days.

  • John 6:59 (3 votes)

    These things said he in the synagogue, as he taught in Capernaum.