Matthew 14:12

Matthew 14:12 describes the somber immediate aftermath of John the Baptist's execution. After the gruesome act ordered by Herod Antipas, John's loyal disciples retrieved his body, reverently buried it, and then sought out Jesus to deliver the tragic news.

Context

This verse follows directly from the chilling account of John the Baptist's martyrdom, detailed in Matthew 14:1-11. John, recognized by Jesus as a great prophet and His forerunner (see Matthew 11:11), had been imprisoned by Herod Antipas for condemning Herod's unlawful marriage to Herodias, his brother Philip's wife. The execution was a consequence of a rash oath made by Herod, pressured by Herodias and her daughter Salome. The disciples' actions in this verse—burying John and then informing Jesus—are acts of both profound grief and faith, acknowledging Jesus as the central figure and perhaps seeking solace or guidance from Him.

Key Themes

• Grief and Respect: The disciples of John displayed deep sorrow and reverence for their teacher by performing the honorable act of burying his body. This highlights the human response to loss and the importance of dignifying the deceased, even in tragic circumstances.
• Seeking Comfort in Christ: The decision to "went and told Jesus" is highly significant. In their moment of profound sorrow and confusion, they turned to Jesus. This demonstrates an understanding of Jesus's authority, compassion, and His unique relationship with John. It serves as an example of bringing our heaviest burdens and deepest sorrows to Christ for comfort and understanding.
• The Cost of Discipleship: John's death underscores the harsh realities and potential dangers faced by those who faithfully proclaim God's truth, especially when it challenges worldly power and corruption.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "went and told Jesus" (Greek: ἀπήγγειλαν τῷ Ἰησοῦ, apēngeilan tō Iēsou) is straightforward. The verb apēngeilan means "they announced," "reported," or "brought news." It implies a direct, personal communication of a significant event. It's not merely gossip but a solemn report delivered to one who they knew would care deeply and understand the gravity of the situation.

Practical Application

Matthew 14:12 offers powerful lessons for us today:

• Processing Grief: Like John's disciples, we are called to mourn and honor those we lose. It's healthy and biblical to acknowledge sorrow and allow ourselves to grieve.
• Bringing Burdens to Jesus: The disciples' immediate impulse was to go to Jesus with their devastating news. This serves as a timeless reminder that in our darkest hours, when faced with loss, injustice, or despair, our first and ultimate recourse should be to bring our prayers and anxieties before the Lord. He is the ultimate source of comfort, strength, and peace that surpasses understanding.
• Community in Crisis: The disciples acted together, supporting one another in their grief and in their mission to inform Jesus. This highlights the importance of Christian community in times of crisis and sorrow, offering mutual support and shared burdens.