Luke 4:31

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} came down {G2718} to {G1519} Capernaum {G2584}, a city {G4172} of Galilee {G1056}, and {G2532} taught {G1321} them {G846}{G2258} on {G1722} the sabbath days {G4521}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He went down to K'far-Nachum, a town in the Galil, and made a practice of teaching them on Shabbat.

Berean Standard Bible

Then He went down to Capernaum, a town in Galilee, and on the Sabbath He began to teach the people.

American Standard Version

And he came down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee. And he was teaching them on the sabbath day:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 4:31 marks a pivotal moment in Jesus' earthly ministry, depicting his strategic relocation from his rejected hometown of Nazareth to Capernaum, a bustling city in Galilee. This verse establishes Capernaum as the primary base for his Galilean ministry, emphasizing his consistent and authoritative teaching on the Sabbath days within the synagogue, thereby setting the stage for the powerful demonstrations of his divine authority that would follow.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows Jesus' dramatic rejection in his hometown of Nazareth, where his claims to be the fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy were met with hostility, culminating in an attempt on his life ([Luke 4:16-30](/luke/4-16-30 "Luke 4:16-30 - Jesus' Rejection in Nazareth")). The move to Capernaum, therefore, signifies a strategic shift in his public ministry, establishing a new operational center from which he would launch a widespread campaign of teaching and healing. The subsequent verses in [Luke 4:32-44](/luke/4-32-44 "Luke 4:32-44 - Jesus' Authority and Healings in Capernaum") immediately highlight the impact of his teaching and the power of his miracles in this new setting, contrasting sharply with the unbelief he encountered in Nazareth.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Capernaum, located on the northwest shore of the Sea of Galilee, was a thriving fishing village and a significant commercial hub due to its position on major trade routes. Its diverse population, including both Jews and Gentiles, made it an ideal location for Jesus to reach a broad audience. The synagogue, mentioned in the phrase "on the sabbath days," was the central institution for Jewish community life, worship, and education. It was a place where the Law and Prophets were read and expounded, providing Jesus with a regular platform to deliver his message to a receptive audience, unlike the one he had just left. His consistent presence and teaching there underscore his engagement with established Jewish religious practices, even as his message would challenge their interpretations.
* **Key Themes:** The verse contributes significantly to several major themes in Luke's Gospel and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights the **Geographic Shift and Ministry Hub** for Jesus, as Capernaum becomes the focal point for his Galilean ministry, witnessing many of his most significant teachings and miracles (e.g., [Luke 5:1-11](/luke/5-1-11 "Luke 5:1-11 - The Miraculous Catch of Fish and Call of Peter")). Secondly, it underscores Jesus' **Consistent Teaching Ministry**, emphasizing his purposeful and regular instruction, particularly within the synagogue setting, which was central to Jewish community and education. This consistent teaching sets the stage for the revelation of his unique authority, as noted in [Luke 4:32](/luke/4-32 "Luke 4:32 - The People Astonished by Jesus' Teaching"). Lastly, the mention of "sabbath days" points to Jesus' engagement with **Sabbath Observance and Reinterpretation**. While he honored the Sabbath by attending synagogue, his subsequent actions and teachings often challenged the rigid, legalistic interpretations of Sabbath law prevalent among the religious leaders, emphasizing its true purpose as a day for spiritual instruction, healing, and doing good ([Luke 6:1-11](/luke/6-1-11 "Luke 6:1-11 - Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **came down (Greek, _katérchomai'_):** From G2718, meaning "to come (or go) down (literally or figuratively)." This word highlights the physical descent from the higher altitude of Nazareth (in the hills of Galilee) to Capernaum, which is situated by the Sea of Galilee. It implies a deliberate and purposeful movement, marking a new phase of Jesus' ministry.
* **taught (Greek, _didáskō'_):** From G1321, a prolonged form of a primary verb meaning "to teach (in the same broad application)." This term signifies systematic instruction and authoritative communication, not merely casual conversation. It emphasizes the intentional and foundational nature of Jesus' ministry, distinguishing his teaching from that of the scribes and Pharisees, as further elaborated in [Luke 4:32](/luke/4-32 "Luke 4:32 - The People Astonished by Jesus' Teaching").
* **sabbath days (Greek, _sábbaton'_):** From G4521, meaning "the Sabbath (i.e. Shabbath), or day of weekly repose from secular avocations (also the observance or institution itself); by extension, a se'nnight, i.e. the interval between two Sabbaths; likewise the plural in all the above applications." The plural "sabbath days" (or "Sabbaths") indicates a regular, repeated pattern of Jesus' activity. It underscores his consistent engagement with Jewish religious life and his choice to use this sacred day, designated for worship and rest, as a primary opportunity for public instruction and ministry.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And came down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee,"**: This clause describes Jesus' geographical relocation. "Came down" (κατέρχομαι, _katérchomai_) indicates a physical descent from the higher elevation of Nazareth to the lower elevation of Capernaum on the Sea of Galilee. This move is not merely incidental but marks a strategic shift in Jesus' ministry, establishing Capernaum as his new base of operations after his rejection in Nazareth. The designation "a city of Galilee" reaffirms the regional focus of his early public ministry.
* **"and taught them on the sabbath days."**: This clause details Jesus' primary activity in Capernaum. The continuous action implied by the imperfect tense of "taught" (ἐδίδασκεν, _edidasken_) signifies a regular, habitual practice. Jesus consistently used the Sabbath, the day of rest and synagogue worship, as a platform for his authoritative instruction. This highlights his commitment to engaging with the Jewish community within their established religious framework, even as his teachings would often challenge their traditional interpretations of the Law. The plural "sabbath days" underscores the repeated nature of this practice.

#### Literary Devices
Luke employs several **Literary Devices** in this concise verse. Firstly, there is a clear **Narrative Transition**, signaling a new phase in Jesus' ministry. The abrupt shift from the hostile environment of Nazareth to the receptive setting of Capernaum marks a strategic reorientation of Jesus' public work. Secondly, the mention of "Capernaum, a city of Galilee" serves as **Geographic Symbolism**. Capernaum, a bustling commercial center, represents a more public and diverse stage for Jesus' ministry, contrasting with the more insular nature of Nazareth. It becomes a hub from which his influence can spread. Finally, the phrase "taught them on the sabbath days" highlights **Repetition** and **Pattern**. The plural "sabbath days" indicates a consistent, intentional practice, emphasizing Jesus' dedication to systematic instruction and his engagement with the established religious rhythms of Jewish life. This repetition sets up the expectation for the powerful teachings and miracles that are about to unfold in Capernaum.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 4:31 serves as a crucial theological waypoint, illustrating Jesus' divine strategy in the face of human rejection. His move to Capernaum was not a retreat but a strategic advance, establishing a new epicenter for the proclamation of the Kingdom of God. This relocation demonstrates the sovereignty of God's plan, which cannot be thwarted by human unbelief. Jesus' consistent teaching on the Sabbath underscores his dual identity: fully human, participating in the religious customs of his people, yet fully divine, possessing an inherent authority that transcended that of the scribes and Pharisees. He was not merely an interpreter of the Law but its authoritative expositor and fulfiller, using the designated day of rest to bring spiritual renewal and liberation. This verse sets the stage for the profound impact of his ministry, where his words would be accompanied by powerful deeds, revealing the true nature of God's redemptive presence among humanity.

* [Matthew 4:12-16](/matthew/4-12-16 "Matthew 4:12-16 - Jesus Begins Ministry in Galilee")
* [Mark 1:21-28](/mark/1-21-28 "Mark 1:21-28 - Jesus Teaches and Heals on the Sabbath")
* [Matthew 7:28-29](/matthew/7-28-29 "Matthew 7:28-29 - Jesus' Authoritative Teaching")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 4:31 offers profound insights for contemporary believers, calling us to consider the intentionality and authority that characterized Jesus' ministry. Just as Jesus strategically relocated to Capernaum to establish a new base for his work after facing rejection, we are called to be flexible and discerning in our own spiritual journeys and ministry efforts. We should actively seek out opportunities to engage with others, even in unexpected places, and consistently prioritize the proclamation and understanding of God's Word. Jesus' example of teaching "on the sabbath days" reminds us of the importance of consistent engagement with spiritual disciplines and community, utilizing our designated times of rest and worship for spiritual growth and outreach. Furthermore, his teaching with inherent authority challenges us to speak and live with conviction rooted in divine truth, not merely human tradition, allowing the power of the Holy Spirit to accompany our words and actions. We are encouraged to find our "Capernaum"—the place or sphere of influence where God has called us to consistently teach, serve, and embody His truth.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **Where might God be calling me to "come down" to a new "Capernaum" in my life or ministry, perhaps after a season of rejection or difficulty?**
* **In what ways can I more consistently and intentionally engage with God's Word and Christian community, particularly during my times of rest or spiritual focus?**
* **How can I cultivate a greater sense of divine authority in my witness and actions, relying on the Holy Spirit rather than human wisdom or tradition?**

### FAQ

**Why did Jesus move to Capernaum after Nazareth?**

Answer: Jesus' move to Capernaum was a strategic and divinely guided decision following his rejection in his hometown of Nazareth, as detailed in [Luke 4:16-30](/luke/4-16-30 "Luke 4:16-30 - Jesus' Rejection in Nazareth"). Nazareth proved unreceptive to his message and even sought to harm him. Capernaum, a bustling fishing and commercial hub on the Sea of Galilee, offered a more fertile ground for his public ministry. Its location on major trade routes and its diverse population provided a broader audience for his teachings and miracles. It became his primary base of operations for much of his Galilean ministry, allowing him to reach many people and establish a visible presence.

**What was the significance of Jesus teaching "on the sabbath days"?**

Answer: Jesus' consistent practice of teaching "on the sabbath days" highlights several key aspects of his ministry. Firstly, it demonstrates his faithfulness to Jewish custom and his respect for the synagogue as a central place of worship and instruction. He did not come to abolish the Law but to fulfill it ([Matthew 5:17](/matthew/5-17 "Matthew 5:17 - Jesus Fulfills the Law")). Secondly, it underscores his commitment to regular, public instruction. The Sabbath provided a consistent opportunity to gather people and impart divine truth. Thirdly, it sets the stage for the numerous controversies Jesus would have with religious leaders regarding Sabbath observance. While he attended synagogue on the Sabbath, his actions, such as healing and allowing his disciples to pluck grain, often challenged the rigid, legalistic interpretations of the day, emphasizing that the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath, and that it was a day for doing good and showing mercy ([Mark 2:27-28](/mark/2-27-28 "Mark 2:27-28 - Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 4:31, depicting Jesus' authoritative teaching in Capernaum, finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in Jesus as the ultimate divine Teacher and the very embodiment of God's wisdom. His "coming down" to Capernaum, a bustling Gentile-influenced city in "Galilee of the Gentiles" ([Matthew 4:15](/matthew/4-15 "Matthew 4:15 - Galilee of the Gentiles")), foreshadows his mission to extend salvation beyond the confines of Israel to all nations. The consistent "teaching on the sabbath days" reveals not merely a prophet, but the Son of God, whose words carried inherent power and authority, unlike any human rabbi ([Luke 4:32](/luke/4-32 "Luke 4:32 - The People Astonished by Jesus' Teaching")). He is the living Word, through whom all things were made ([John 1:1-3](/john/1-1-3 "John 1:1-3 - The Word Was God")), and his earthly teaching ministry was a tangible manifestation of God's self-revelation. His relocation and dedicated instruction in Capernaum prefigure his ultimate establishment of the Church as his new "base of operations" in the world, through which his authoritative teaching, empowered by the Holy Spirit ([John 14:26](/john/14-26 "John 14:26 - The Holy Spirit, the Teacher")), continues to transform lives and proclaim the good news of the Kingdom of God until his glorious return ([Matthew 28:19-20](/matthew/28-19-20 "Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Mark 1:21

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

Mark 1:28

And immediately his fame spread abroad throughout all the region round about Galilee.

Matthew 4:13

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

Acts 13:50

But the Jews stirred up the devout and honourable women, and the chief men of the city, and raised persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them out of their coasts.

Acts 14:2

But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles, and made their minds evil affected against the brethren.

Acts 17:1

¶ Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where was a synagogue of the Jews:

Acts 17:3

Opening and alleging, that Christ must needs have suffered, and risen again from the dead; and that this Jesus, whom I preach unto you, is Christ.