Matthew 11:1

KJV

¶ And it came to pass, when Jesus had made an end of commanding his twelve disciples, he departed thence to teach and to preach in their cities.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} it came to pass {G1096}, when {G3753} Jesus {G2424} had made an end {G5055} of commanding {G1299} his {G846} twelve {G1427} disciples {G3101}, he departed {G3327} thence {G1564} to teach {G1321} and {G2532} to preach {G2784} in {G1722} their {G846} cities {G4172}.

Complete Jewish Bible

After Yeshua had finished instructing the twelve talmidim, he went on from there to teach and preach in the towns nearby.

Berean Standard Bible

After Jesus had finished instructing His twelve disciples, He went on from there to teach and preach in their cities.

American Standard Version

And it came to pass when Jesus had finished commanding his twelve disciples, he departed thence to teach and preach in their cities.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 11:1 marks a pivotal moment in Jesus' public ministry, signaling a transition from the detailed commissioning of His twelve disciples to His continued, personal engagement in the work of the Kingdom. Having fully equipped and sent out His chosen apostles with authority, Jesus Himself did not cease His active proclamation and instruction. Instead, He departed from the region where He had just given His commands, traveling to other cities to persistently teach and preach the good news, thereby modeling continuous dedication to the divine mission even as He delegated authority to His followers.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as a crucial narrative hinge, immediately following the extensive instructions and commissioning of the twelve disciples in [Matthew 10](/matthew/10 "Matthew 10 - The Commissioning of the Twelve"). Chapter 10 meticulously details Jesus' authority given to His disciples, the scope of their mission (primarily to the "lost sheep of the house of Israel"), and the challenges and persecutions they would face. The sending out of the twelve is a significant development, expanding the reach of Jesus' ministry. Matthew 11:1 then clarifies that this delegation did not mean Jesus retired from active ministry. Rather, while His disciples embarked on their assignments, Jesus continued His own work, demonstrating a parallel and ongoing commitment to teaching and preaching. This sets the stage for the subsequent narrative, which includes John the Baptist's inquiry, Jesus' pronouncements of woe on unrepentant cities, and His invitation to the weary, further elaborating on the nature of His kingdom and His identity.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In first-century Galilee and Judea, itinerant teachers and preachers were common, especially within Jewish society where rabbis (teachers) held significant cultural and religious authority. Jesus operated within this cultural framework, though His authority and teachings far surpassed those of conventional rabbis. The "cities" mentioned refer to the numerous towns and villages scattered throughout the region, which were often centers of community life, synagogues, and markets, making them ideal locations for public teaching and proclamation. The practice of traveling from city to city was a standard method for disseminating a message, whether religious or secular. Jesus' ministry, therefore, was not confined to one locale but was characterized by constant movement, reaching diverse populations. This mobility was essential for fulfilling His mission to proclaim the arrival of the Kingdom of God across Israel.

* **Key Themes:** Matthew 11:1 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the Gospel of Matthew. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Delegation and Continued Ministry**. Jesus empowers His disciples, entrusting them with a share in His mission, yet He does not withdraw from His own active role. This illustrates a profound model of leadership where equipping others for service goes hand-in-hand with persistent personal engagement in the core mission. Secondly, the verse highlights the **Centrality of the Word** in Jesus' ministry. Both Jesus and His disciples are engaged in "teaching and preaching," emphasizing that the Kingdom of God is advanced through both the proclamation of the good news (the Gospel) and the systematic instruction in its principles. This dual emphasis is consistent with Jesus' ministry from its outset, as seen in [Matthew 4:23](/matthew/4-23 "Matthew 4:23 - Jesus Teaching and Preaching Throughout Galilee"), where He "went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom." Finally, the phrase "it came to pass" (Greek: _ginomai_) often subtly points to the **Divine Purpose** unfolding. It suggests that these events are not random but are part of God's sovereign plan for the expansion of His kingdom, reinforcing the idea that Jesus' actions are divinely orchestrated steps in salvation history.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **commanding (Greek, _diatássō_):** From G1299, this word means "to arrange thoroughly, i.e. (specially) institute, prescribe, etc." It implies a detailed and authoritative setting in order, an appointment, or the giving of specific, well-defined orders. In the context of Matthew 10, it perfectly describes the precise and comprehensive instructions Jesus gave His disciples regarding their mission, authority, and conduct. This was not a casual suggestion but a divine mandate.
* **departed (Greek, _metabaínō_):** From G3327, meaning "to change place." This verb indicates a physical movement from one location to another. Here, it signifies Jesus' intentional relocation from the place where He had just finished commissioning His disciples. It emphasizes His active, mobile ministry, indicating that His work was not static but involved continuous movement to new areas, extending the reach of His presence and message.
* **teach (Greek, _didáskō_):** From G1321, meaning "to teach (in the same broad application)." This word refers to systematic instruction, imparting knowledge, explaining principles, and providing deeper understanding. It goes beyond mere proclamation to involve the careful exposition of truth, focusing on the content and meaning of the Kingdom of God. Jesus was not just announcing; He was also instructing His listeners in the ways of God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And it came to pass, when Jesus had made an end of commanding his twelve disciples,"**: This opening clause establishes the chronological and thematic link to the preceding chapter. The phrase "it came to pass" (Greek: _kai egeneto_) is a common transitional phrase in biblical narrative, often used to introduce a new event or stage in the unfolding story, frequently with a sense of divine orchestration. It highlights that Jesus had completed a specific, significant task: the authoritative instruction and sending out of His chosen apostles. This completion marks a turning point, allowing for the next phase of ministry to commence.
* **"he departed thence"**: This phrase indicates a physical relocation by Jesus. "Thence" (Greek: _ekeîthen_) refers to the place where He had just finished His detailed instructions to the disciples, likely a specific location in Galilee. His departure signifies His continued active role in ministry, separate from, yet parallel to, the mission of His disciples. It underscores His personal commitment to the work, even as He delegated.
* **"to teach and to preach in their cities."**: This final clause specifies the purpose and destination of Jesus' departure. "Their cities" refers to the cities of the disciples (or more broadly, the cities of Israel where the disciples were also sent), indicating that Jesus was continuing the very work He had commissioned them to do. The dual action of "teach" (Greek: _didáskō_) and "preach" (Greek: _kērýssō_) is crucial. "Preaching" involves the public proclamation or heralding of the good news of the Kingdom, while "teaching" implies systematic instruction, explaining the principles and implications of that message. Jesus consistently engaged in both, demonstrating the comprehensive nature of His ministry: both announcing the Gospel and explaining its profound truths.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew 11:1 effectively employs several literary devices. The verse functions as a **Transition**, clearly marking the shift from Jesus' direct interaction with and commissioning of His disciples in chapter 10 to His continued independent ministry. This transition is further highlighted by **Juxtaposition**: while the disciples are sent out, Jesus, the Master, also continues His work, creating a parallel narrative of spreading the Kingdom message. This serves as a powerful example of **Modeling**, where Jesus acts as the ultimate exemplar for His followers, demonstrating that the work of teaching and preaching is ongoing and requires active participation from all who are called. The **Repetition** of the twin actions "to teach and to preach" (which appears frequently in Matthew, e.g., [Matthew 4:23](/matthew/4-23 "Matthew 4:23 - Jesus' Early Ministry")) emphasizes the core activities of Jesus' ministry and the enduring nature of His mission, reinforcing the dual necessity of proclamation and instruction for the advancement of God's Kingdom.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 11:1 profoundly illustrates the dynamic and multifaceted nature of God's Kingdom mission, revealing Jesus as both the authoritative delegator and the tireless practitioner of His divine work. Theologically, it underscores the principle that God's work is not dependent on a single individual, even the Son of God, but involves a collaborative effort. By sending out the twelve and simultaneously continuing His own ministry, Jesus demonstrates a model of leadership that empowers others while remaining personally engaged. This highlights the ongoing, pervasive nature of the Kingdom's advance, which requires both widespread proclamation and deep, systematic instruction. The verse subtly reinforces divine sovereignty: the events "came to pass" as part of God's unfolding plan, signifying that the expansion of the Gospel is a divinely orchestrated movement. It also emphasizes the comprehensive scope of ministry, encompassing both the initial call to repentance and faith (preaching) and the subsequent discipleship and understanding of God's ways (teaching).

* [Matthew 4:23](/matthew/4-23 "Matthew 4:23 - Jesus' Early Ministry")
* [Luke 4:43](/luke/4-43 "Luke 4:43 - Jesus Must Preach the Kingdom of God")
* [Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - Power to Witness")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 11:1 offers timeless lessons for believers today, particularly concerning leadership, ministry, and personal commitment to the Great Commission. Jesus' example of both delegating authority and continuing His own active ministry is a powerful blueprint for Christian leaders. It teaches us that true leadership involves not only equipping and empowering others for service but also remaining personally engaged in the core mission. We are called to lead by example, demonstrating the very commitment and passion we wish to see in those we lead. Furthermore, the verse reminds us of the comprehensive nature of Christian ministry: it's not just about proclaiming the Gospel (preaching) but also about providing deep, systematic instruction (teaching) that helps people understand and live out the truths of God's Word. This dual emphasis is vital for holistic spiritual growth and the effective expansion of the Kingdom. Finally, Jesus' tireless movement from city to city underscores the urgency and breadth of the mission. We are called to be active participants in spreading the Gospel in our spheres of influence, understanding that the work of God's Kingdom is continuous and requires the dedicated effort of every believer.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Jesus' example of both delegating and continuing His own ministry challenge my understanding of leadership and personal responsibility in God's work?**
* **In what ways can I more effectively integrate both "preaching" (proclaiming the good news) and "teaching" (providing deeper instruction) into my own life and ministry?**
* **What "cities" (areas of influence, communities, relationships) is God calling me to "depart thence to teach and to preach" in, and what steps can I take to be more intentional in those areas?**

### FAQ
**Why did Jesus continue His own ministry after sending out the twelve disciples?**

Answer: Jesus continued His own ministry for several crucial reasons. Firstly, it demonstrated His unwavering commitment to the divine mission; His work was not contingent on the disciples' success but was an ongoing, personal endeavor. He was modeling the very behavior and dedication He expected from His followers. Secondly, the scope of the harvest was vast, and the need for the Gospel message was immense. The twelve disciples, while significant, could not reach every "city" and village. Jesus' continued presence and teaching ensured a broader and deeper impact. Thirdly, by remaining active, Jesus continued to provide a living example and ongoing instruction for His disciples, even as they gained practical experience. His continued ministry was essential for the full revelation of the Kingdom of God, preparing the way for His ultimate sacrifice and the subsequent empowerment of the church through the Holy Spirit (as seen in [Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - The Holy Spirit and Witness")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 11:1, by portraying Jesus' relentless commitment to "teach and to preach," profoundly points to His ultimate identity and mission as the Christ. His continuous active ministry, even after empowering His disciples, foreshadows His role as the Great Shepherd who never abandons His flock, and the Great Teacher whose words are eternal life. This verse highlights that Jesus is not merely a transient figure who initiates a movement and then withdraws; rather, He is the very embodiment of the Kingdom of God, actively bringing it to fruition through His words and deeds. His teaching and preaching prepared the hearts of humanity for the radical truth of His atoning sacrifice and glorious resurrection, which would be the ultimate fulfillment of all His proclamations. The "cities" He visited represent the lost world He came to redeem, and His persistent ministry underscores the depth of His love and the comprehensiveness of His redemptive plan. Ultimately, His work culminates in the Great Commission, where He commands His followers to continue this very mission, empowered by His abiding presence (as promised in [Matthew 28:18-20](/matthew/28-18-20 "Matthew 28:18-20 - The Great Commission")). Thus, Matthew 11:1 is a testament to the tireless, incarnate Word of God ([John 1:1-5](/john/1-1-5 "John 1:1-5 - The Word Became Flesh")), who perfectly fulfilled His Father's will and continues His saving work through His church until His return.

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

Isaiah 61:1

¶ The Spirit of the Lord GOD [is] upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to [them that are] bound;

Isaiah 61:3

To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified.

Luke 4:15

And he taught in their synagogues, being glorified of all.

Luke 4:21

And he began to say unto them, This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears.

Luke 8:1

¶ And it came to pass afterward, that he went throughout every city and village, preaching and shewing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God: and the twelve [were] with him,

Matthew 9:35

¶ And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people.

Acts 10:38

How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.