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Commentary on Matthew 14 verses 34–36
We have here an account of miracles by wholesale, which Christ wrought on the other side of the water, in the land of Gennesaret. Whithersoever Christ went, he was doing good. Gennesaret was a tract of land that lay between Bethsaida and Capernaum, and either gave the name to, or took the name fRom. this sea, which is called (Luk 5:1) The Lake of Gennesaret; it signifies the valley of branches. Observe here,
I. The forwardness and faith of the men of that place. These were more noble than the Gergesenes, their neighbours, who were borderers upon the same lake. Those besought Christ to depart from them, they had no occasion for him; these besought him to help them, they had need of him. Christ reckons it the greatest honour we can do him, to make use of him. Now here we are told,
1.How the men of that place were brought to Christ; they had knowledge of him. It is probable that his miraculous passage over the sea, which they that were in the ship would industriously spread the report of, might help to make way for his entertainment in those parts; and perhaps it was one thing Christ intended in it, for he has great reaches in what he does. This they had knowledge of, and of the other miracles Christ had wrought, and therefore they flocked to him. Note, They that know Christ's name, will make their application to him: if Christ were better known, he would not be neglected as he is; he is trusted as far as he is known.
They had knowledge of him, that is, of his being among them, and that he would be put awhile among them. Note, The discerning of the day of our opportunities is a good step toward the improvement of it. This was the condemnation of the world, that Christ was in the world, and the world knew him not (Joh 1:10); Jerusalem knew him not (Luk 19:42), but there were some who, when he was among them, had knowledge of him. It is better to know that there is a prophet among us than that there has been one, Eze 2:5.
2.How they brought others to Christ, by giving notice to their neighbours of Christ's being come into those parts; They sent out into all that country. Note, those that have got the knowledge of Christ themselves, should do all they can to bring others acquainted with him too. We must not eat these spiritual morsels alone; there is in Christ enough for us all, so that there is nothing got by monopolizing. When we have opportunities of getting good to our souls, we should bring as many as we can to share with us. More than we think of would close with opportunities, if they were but called upon and invited to them. They sent into their own country, because it was their own, and they desired the welfare of it. Note, We can no better testify our love to our country than by promoting and propagating the knowledge of Christ in it. Neighbourhood is an advantage of doing good which must be improved. Those that are near to us, we should contrive to do something for, at least by our example, to bring them near to Christ.
3.What their business was with Christ; not only, perhaps not chiefly, if at all, to be taught, but to have their sick healed; They brought unto him all that were diseased. If love to Christ and his doctrine will not bring them to him, yet self-love would. Did we but rightly seek our own things, the things of our own peace and welfare, we should seek the things of Christ. We should do him honour, and please him, by deriving grace and righteousness from him. Note, Christ is the proper Person to bring the diseased to; whither should they go but to the Physician, to the Sun of Righteousness, that hath healing under his wings?
4.How they made their application to him; They besought him that they might only touch the hem of his garment, Mat 14:36. They applied themselves to him, (1.) With great importunity; they besought him. Well may we beseech to be healed, when God by his ministers beseecheth us that we will be healed. Note, The greatest favours and blessings are to be obtained from Christ by entreaty; Ask, and it shall be given. (2.) With great humility; they came to him as those that were sensible of their distance, humbly beseeching him to help them; and their desiring to touch the hem of his garment, intimates that they thought themselves unworthy that he should take any particular notice of them, that he should so much as speak to their case, much less touch them for their cure; but they will look upon it as a great favour, if he will give them leave to touch the hem of his garment. The eastern nations show respect to their princes, by kissing their sleeve, or skirt. (3.) With great assurance of the all-sufficiency of his power, not doubting but that they should be healed, even by touching the hem of his garment; that they should receive abundant communications from him by the smallest token of symbol of communion with him. They did not expect the formality of striking his hand over the place or persons diseased, as Naaman did (Kg2 5:11); but they were sure that there was in him such an overflowing fulness of healing virtue, that they could not fail of a cure, who were but admitted near him. It was in this country and neighbourhood that the woman with the bloody issue was cured by touching the hem of his garment, and was commended for her faith (Mat 9:20-22); and thence, probably, they took occasion to ask this. Note, The experiences of others in their attendance upon Christ may be of use both to direct and to encourage us in our attendance on him. It is good using those means and methods which others before us have sped well in the use of.
II. The fruit and success of this their application to Christ. It was not in vain that these seed of Jacob sough him, for as many as touched, were made perfectly whole. Note, 1. Christ's cures are perfect cures. Those that he heals, he heals perfectly. He doth not do his work by halves. Though spiritual healing be not perfected at first, yet, doubtless, he that has begun the good work will perform it, Phi 1:6. 2. There is an abundance of healing virtue in Christ for all that apply themselves to him, be they ever so many. That precious ointment which was poured on his head, ran down to the skirts of his garment, Psa 133:2. The least of Christ's institutions, like the hem of his garment, is replenished with the overflowing fulness of his grace, and he is able to save to the uttermost. 3. The healing virtue that is in Christ, is put forth for the benefit of those that by a true and lively faith touch him. Christ is in heaven, but his word is nigh us, and he himself in that word. When we mix faith with the word, apply it to ourselves, depend upon it, and submit to its influences and commands, then we touch the hem of Christ's garment. It is but thus touching, and we are made whole. On such easy terms are spiritual cures offered by him, that he may truly be said to heal freely; so that if our souls die of their wounds, it is not owing to our Physician, it is not for want of skill or will in him; but it is purely owing to ourselves. He could have healed us, he would have healed us, but we would not be healed; so that our blood will lie upon our own heads.
Many things came in the way that, after the gathering of five thousand men who were filled to satiety, dampened our effort to give a proper account. Our understanding on this point, however, remains the same. The time of the law was over, and five thousand men were brought into the church from lsrael. The believing people now hastened from the law, saved through their faith. They offered to God the remaining persons among them who were feeble and ill. These offered persons wanted to touch the hem of his garment to be made whole through faith. As from the hem of the entire garment, the whole power of the Holy Spirit came forth from our Lord Jesus Christ. This power was given to the apostles, who were also going out as it were from the same body, and it afforded healing to those who wished to touch the garment.
Otherwise; When the times of the Law were ended, and five thousand out of Israel were entered within the Church, it was then that the people of believers met Him, then those that were saved out of the Law by faith set before the Lord the rest of their sick and weak; and they that were thus brought sought to touch the hem of His garment, because through their faith they would be healed. And as the virtue of the hem proceeded from the whole garment, so the virtue of the grace of the Holy Spirit went forth from our Lord Jesus Christ, and imparted to the Apostles, who proceeded as it were from the same body, administers salvation to such as desire to touch.
"And when they were gone over," so it is said, "they came into the land of Gennesaret. And when the men of that place had knowledge of Him, they sent out into all that country round about, and brought unto Him all that were diseased; and besought Him that they might touch the hem of His garment; and as many as touched were made perfectly whole."
For neither did they approach Him as before, dragging Him into their houses, and seeking a touch of His hand, and directions from Him in words; but in a far higher strain, and with more of self-denial, and with a more abundant faith did they try to win themselves a cure; for she that had the issue of blood taught them all to be severe in seeking wisdom.
And the evangelist, implying also that at long intervals He visited the several neighborhoods, saith, "The men of that place took knowledge of Him, and sent out into the country round about, and brought unto Him them that were diseased." But yet the interval, so far from abolishing their faith, made it even greater, and preserved it in vigor.
Let us also then touch the hem of His garment, or rather, if we be willing, we have Him entire. For indeed His body is set before us now, not His garment only, but even His body; not for us to touch it only, but also to eat, and be filled. Let us now then draw near with faith, every one that hath an infirmity. For if they that touched the hem of His garment drew from Him so much virtue, how much more they that possess Him entire? Now to draw near with faith is not only to receive the offering, but also with a pure heart to touch it; to be so minded, as approaching Christ Himself. For what, if thou hear no voice? Yet thou seest Him laid out; or rather thou dost also hear His voice, while He is speaking by the evangelists.
Believe, therefore, that even now it is that supper, at which He Himself sat down. For this is in no respect different from that. For neither doth man make this and Himself the other; but both this and that is His own work. When therefore thou seest the priest delivering it unto thee, account not that it is the priest that doeth so, but that it is Christ's hand that is stretched out.
Even as when he baptizes, not he doth baptize thee, but it is God that possesses thy head with invisible power, and neither angel nor archangel nor any other dare draw nigh and touch thee; even so now also. For when God begets, the gift is His only.
But the Evangelist shows that it was now long time since Christ had come into these parts; for it follows, And when the men of that place knew him, they sent into all that region.
Nor do they now as before drag Him to their houses, and seek the touch of His hand, but they draw Him by their greater faith, for they brought unto him all them that were sick, and besought him that they might touch but the hem of his garment. For the woman who suffered under the issue of blood had taught them all this wisdom, namely, that by touching the hem only of Christ's garment they might be saved; therefore it follows, And as many as touched, were made whole.
But we have not a hem or a garment only of Christ, but have even His body, that we may eat thereof. If then they who touched the hem of His garment derived so much virtue therefrom, much more they that shall receive Himself whole.
They knew Him by fame, not by sight; although indeed by reason of the greatness of the signs which He did among the people, He was known by face to great numbers. And note how great the faith of the men of the land of Gennezareth, that they were not content with the healing of the men of that country only, but sent to all the towns round about.
If we knew what the word Gennezareth would convey in our tongue, we might understand how under the type of the Apostles and the boat, Jesus guides to shore the Church when He has delivered it from the wreck of persecution, and makes it to rest in a most tranquil harbour.
Or, by the hem of the garment understand His least commandment, which whosoever transgresses, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; or, again, His assumption of the body, by which we come to the Word of God.
(Verse 36.) And all who were sick approached him, and they begged him to touch the fringe of his garment. And whoever touched it, they were healed. But those who were sick should not touch the body of Jesus or the entire garment, but only the edge of the fringe, and whoever touched it, they would be healed. Understand the fringe of his garment, or at least understand this commandment: whoever breaks it will be considered the least in the kingdom of heaven (Above, III). And through the assumption of the body, by which we come to the Word of God, and afterwards enjoy His majesty.
(Quæst. Ev. i. 15.) For it is here conveyed to us that His glory will then be made manifest, seeing that now they who walk by faith see it in a figure.
The Evangelist had related above that the Lord had Commanded His disciples to enter the boat, and to go before Him across the strait; he now proceeds with the same intention to relate whither they arrived by their passage, And when they were gone over, they came into the land of Gennezareth.
The land of Gennezar, by the lake of Gennezareth, takes its name from a natural power which it is said to have of spontaneously modulating its waters so as to excite a breeze; the Greek words importing, 'creating for itself the breeze.'
Genezar is interpreted, 'rise', 'beginning.' For then will complete rest be given to us, when Christ shall have restored to us our inheritance of Paradise, and the joy of our first robe.
Jesus stayed for some time in Gennesaret, and the people recognized Him not only by sight but by the signs which He worked, and they showed fervent faith. So much so that they even desired to touch the hem of His garment, and indeed, when they did so, they were healed. You also, O reader, touch the edge of Christ’s garment, which is the end of His sojourning in the flesh. For if you believe that He ascended, you will be saved. The garment means His flesh, and its hem, the end of His life on earth.
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SUMMARY
Matthew 14:36 powerfully illustrates the profound faith of the people in Gennesaret and the boundless compassion and healing power of Jesus Christ. As news of His presence spread, individuals suffering from various ailments were brought to Him, seeking merely to touch the fringe of His garment. In response to their humble yet unwavering belief, all who touched were immediately and completely restored to health, showcasing Jesus' divine authority over sickness and His readiness to respond to genuine faith.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse immediately follows two significant miraculous events: Jesus walking on water and stilling the storm on the Sea of Galilee, and Peter's brief attempt to walk on water (see Matthew 14:22-33). The disciples have just witnessed Jesus' absolute authority over creation. Upon landing in Gennesaret, the narrative shifts from Jesus' power over nature to His power over disease, demonstrating a consistent theme of His divine authority and compassionate ministry. This passage also echoes earlier accounts of Jesus' widespread healing, such as in Matthew 4:23-25 and Matthew 9:35. The rapid spread of His fame and the people's eager response highlight the growing recognition of His unique identity and power, even if not yet fully understood.
Historical & Cultural Context: Gennesaret was a fertile plain on the northwestern shore of the Sea of Galilee, known for its rich agricultural land and dense population. It was a strategic location for Jesus' ministry, allowing Him to reach many people. The practice of touching the "hem" or fringe of a garment (Greek: kraspedon) was significant in Jewish culture. These fringes were commanded in the Mosaic Law (Numbers 15:38-39 and Deuteronomy 22:12) as a visual reminder of God's commandments and the wearer's covenant relationship with Him. For a sick person to seek healing by touching this part of Jesus' garment indicated not only a belief in His power but possibly an understanding of Him as a righteous, holy man, perhaps even a prophet, through whom God's power could flow. This humble approach also reflects the societal norms where direct, bold demands from the sick might have been less common, making a subtle touch a more culturally appropriate expression of desperate faith.
Key Themes: This passage contributes to several key themes within Matthew's Gospel. Firstly, it underscores the unlimited scope of Jesus' healing ministry, demonstrating that His power is not confined to specific ailments or individuals but extends to "as many as touched." This reinforces the theme of Jesus as the Messiah who fulfills prophetic expectations of a healer (Isaiah 53:4). Secondly, it highlights the power of faith, even in its simplest expression. The people's belief that a mere touch was sufficient speaks volumes about their conviction in Jesus' divine authority, mirroring the faith of the woman with the issue of blood in Matthew 9:20-22. Thirdly, it showcases Jesus' profound compassion and accessibility. He does not turn away anyone who comes to Him in need, embodying the merciful heart of God and His desire to alleviate human suffering. This aligns with the broader theme of Jesus' ministry to the marginalized and suffering throughout Matthew's Gospel.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to convey its powerful message. Hyperbole is subtly present in the people's request, as their belief that only touching the hem would heal suggests an almost exaggerated faith in Jesus' pervasive power. The immediate and complete healing of "as many as touched" functions as a form of affirmation, validating the people's faith and unequivocally demonstrating Jesus' divine authority. The contrast between the humble, seemingly insignificant act of touching a "hem" and the profound, comprehensive result of being "made perfectly whole" creates a powerful juxtaposition, emphasizing that Jesus' power transcends conventional expectations and is activated by even the smallest expression of genuine faith. This narrative also functions as an exemplum, providing a concrete example of faith in action and its miraculous outcome for the reader.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 14:36 serves as a profound theological statement on the nature of Jesus' power and accessibility. It underscores the truth that God's healing power is not limited by human conventions or expectations, but flows freely to those who approach Him with simple, unwavering faith. The emphasis on "perfectly whole" points to God's desire for holistic restoration—physical, spiritual, and emotional—a theme consistent throughout the biblical narrative. This passage also highlights the compassionate character of Jesus, who readily responds to human suffering and does not withhold His grace from those who seek Him, even in the most humble ways. It reinforces the New Testament teaching that faith, no matter how small, can access the infinite power of God.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 14:36 offers a timeless encouragement for believers today. It reminds us that our access to Jesus' transformative power is not dependent on elaborate rituals or perfect understanding, but on the sincerity and simplicity of our faith. Just as the people in Gennesaret sought merely to touch the hem of His garment, we are invited to approach Jesus with our needs, trusting that even the smallest act of faith can unlock His boundless grace and healing. This passage challenges us to examine the nature of our own faith: do we truly believe that Jesus is capable of making us "perfectly whole" in every area of our lives—spiritually, emotionally, and physically? It calls us to lay aside any pride or self-sufficiency and humbly reach out to Him, confident in His compassion and His power to restore. In a world full of brokenness, this verse stands as a beacon of hope, assuring us that Jesus remains the same yesterday, today, and forever, ready to meet us at our point of need.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why did the people want to touch only the "hem" of Jesus' garment, and what was its significance?
Answer: The "hem" (Greek: kraspedon) refers to the tassels or fringes worn on the corners of Jewish outer garments, commanded by God in Numbers 15:38-39 and Deuteronomy 22:12. These fringes served as a constant visual reminder of God's commandments and the wearer's covenant relationship with Him. For the people, touching Jesus' kraspedon was a profound act of faith. It symbolized connecting with His holiness, His righteousness, and perhaps even seeing Him as the embodiment of God's presence and law. They believed that even this indirect, humble contact with someone so holy and powerful would be sufficient for healing, demonstrating a deep reverence and conviction in His divine authority. This is similar to the woman with the issue of blood who also sought healing by touching Jesus' garment in Matthew 9:20-22.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 14:36, while a powerful display of Jesus' earthly ministry, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the broader redemptive work of the Messiah. The physical healing of "as many as touched" foreshadows the spiritual wholeness and salvation offered to all who, by faith, "touch" Jesus through belief in His atoning work. Just as the people in Gennesaret sought a physical connection to receive healing, humanity, in its spiritual brokenness, must connect with Christ, the Great Physician, for ultimate restoration. His willingness to heal everyone who came to Him points to His universal invitation for salvation, as John 3:16 declares that "whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." The "perfect wholeness" they experienced physically prefigures the complete spiritual regeneration and reconciliation with God that is available through Christ's sacrifice on the cross (2 Corinthians 5:17). Ultimately, Jesus' healing power demonstrated in Matthew 14:36 is a tangible sign of His divine identity and His mission to bring holistic redemption, culminating in the promise of a future where all sickness and sorrow will be no more (Revelation 21:4).