¶ And it came to pass, [that] when Jesus had finished these parables, he departed thence.
And {G2532} it came to pass {G1096}, that when {G3753} Jesus {G2424} had finished {G5055} these {G5025} parables {G3850}, he departed {G3332} thence {G1564}.
When Yeshua had finished these parables, he left
When Jesus had finished these parables, He withdrew from that place.
And it came to pass, when Jesus had finished these parables, he departed thence.
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Matthew 7:28
And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine: -
Mark 4:33
And with many such parables spake he the word unto them, as they were able to hear [it]. -
Mark 4:35
¶ And the same day, when the even was come, he saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side.
Matthew 13:53 marks a significant transition point in Jesus' public ministry as recorded by Matthew. This concise verse concludes a pivotal chapter primarily dedicated to Jesus' teaching through parables concerning the Kingdom of Heaven.
Context
This verse immediately follows the extensive collection of parables presented in Matthew chapter 13, often referred to as the "Parable Chapter." Beginning with the Parable of the Sower, Jesus continued with the Parable of the Tares, the Mustard Seed, the Leaven, the Hidden Treasure, the Pearl of Great Price, and the Net. He explained the purpose of these parables to His disciples (e.g., Matthew 13:11-13), revealing mysteries of the Kingdom to those who had ears to hear, while obscuring them from those who were spiritually dull.
After delivering these profound teachings, often from a boat by the sea of Galilee to large crowds, Jesus concludes this particular teaching session. The phrase "He departed thence" signifies a change of location and a shift in the narrative focus, preparing the reader for the next phase of His ministry, which immediately follows in Matthew 13:54 with His return to His hometown of Nazareth.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The phrase "departed thence" (Greek: metēren ekeithen) simply means "He moved from there" or "He went away from that place." While not a complex linguistic point, it emphasizes a deliberate and purposeful movement on Jesus' part, signaling a shift from a period of intense public teaching to a new geographical location and potentially new interactions.
Practical Application
Matthew 13:53 reminds us that spiritual learning and growth are often followed by action and movement. Just as Jesus moved on after imparting significant truths, believers are called not just to hear the Word but also to live it out in different contexts and circumstances. It encourages us to consider: