Matthew 4:24

KJV

And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} his {G846} fame {G189} went {G565} throughout {G1519} all {G3650} Syria {G4947}: and {G2532} they brought {G4374} unto him {G846} all {G3956} sick {G2560} people {G2192} that were taken with {G4912} divers {G4164} diseases {G3554} and {G2532} torments {G931}, and {G2532} those which were possessed with devils {G1139}, and {G2532} those which were lunatick {G4583}, and {G2532} those that had the palsy {G3885}; and {G2532} he healed {G2323} them {G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Word of him spread throughout all Syria, and people brought to him all who were ill, suffering from various diseases and pains, and those held in the power of demons, and epileptics and paralytics; and he healed them.

Berean Standard Bible

News about Him spread all over Syria, and people brought to Him all who were ill with various diseases, those suffering acute pain, the demon-possessed, those having seizures, and the paralyzed—and He healed them.

American Standard Version

And the report of him went forth into all Syria: and they brought unto him all that were sick, holden with divers diseases and torments, possessed with demons, and epileptic, and palsied; and he healed them.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 4:24 vividly portrays the burgeoning fame of Jesus' early ministry, demonstrating His profound and comprehensive healing power. As news of His miraculous works spread rapidly throughout the vast region of Syria, multitudes of people, afflicted with every conceivable physical ailment, severe pain, demonic oppression, and debilitating conditions like epilepsy and paralysis, were brought to Him. In response to their desperate need, Jesus, with divine authority and compassion, healed every single one of them, underscoring the limitless scope of His redemptive power.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as a powerful amplification and specific illustration of the general statement made in [Matthew 4:23](/matthew/4-23 "Matthew 4:23 - Jesus' Galilean Ministry Summary"), which summarizes Jesus' early Galilean ministry as encompassing teaching, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing "all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people." Matthew 4:24 then expands on the "healing" aspect by detailing the geographical reach of His fame and the diverse array of afflictions He addressed. It sets the stage for the immense crowds who would gather to hear His foundational teachings, beginning with [the Sermon on the Mount](/matthew/5 "Matthew 5 - The Sermon on the Mount Begins") in the subsequent chapter, highlighting the practical impact of His ministry before His doctrinal instruction.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The mention of "all Syria" is significant, as Syria was a large Roman province that bordered Galilee to the north and east. This indicates that Jesus' fame was not confined to the Jewish territories of Galilee but had extended into a broader, ethnically diverse region, potentially including Gentile populations. In the ancient world, understanding of disease was often rudimentary, with many conditions attributed to sin, curses, or demonic activity. Medical science as we know it did not exist, and severe, chronic, or mysterious illnesses like "lunacy" (often associated with epilepsy or mental illness) and "palsy" (paralysis) were terrifying and often incurable. The widespread suffering and the lack of effective remedies meant that a healer with Jesus' power would attract immense attention and desperate hope from all segments of society.
* **Key Themes:** Matthew 4:24 powerfully underscores several key themes central to the Gospel of Matthew. Firstly, it highlights **Jesus' Messianic Authority and Power**. His ability to heal every kind of physical ailment, including those believed to be demonically induced or incurable, unequivocally demonstrates His divine power and authority as the promised Messiah, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies of a compassionate deliverer who would bring healing and restoration, as anticipated in passages like [Isaiah 35:5-6](/isaiah/35-5-6 "Isaiah 35:5-6 - Healing and Restoration"). Secondly, the verse emphasizes the **Widespread Impact and Universal Scope of His Ministry**. The rapid spread of His fame "throughout all Syria" foreshadows the global reach of the Gospel message, which would eventually extend far beyond the geographical and ethnic boundaries of Israel. Finally, the comprehensive nature of His healing ministry profoundly illustrates the **Compassion and Restoration** that characterize Jesus' mission. He did not turn away anyone, but met every form of human brokenness—physical, mental, and spiritual—with divine grace and complete restoration, reflecting His deep empathy for a suffering humanity.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Fame (Greek, _akoḗ'_):** This term refers to "hearing," "report," or "rumor." In this context, it signifies the widespread news and reputation of Jesus' miraculous works that rapidly disseminated throughout the region. It emphasizes that the impact of His ministry was not confined to direct observation but spread through word-of-mouth, creating a magnetic pull for those in need.
* **Possessed with devils (Greek, _daimonízomai'_):** This word, in its middle voice, means "to be exercised by a dæmon." It refers to individuals afflicted by demonic spirits, a common and terrifying phenomenon described in the Gospels. Jesus' authority over these spiritual entities was a clear and undeniable sign of His divine power and His victory over the forces of evil, distinguishing Him from mere human healers.
* **Healed (Greek, _therapeúō'_):** Derived from a word meaning "to wait upon menially," this term here specifically means "to relieve of disease" or "to cure." It signifies a complete and effective restoration of health and wholeness. The use of this word at the end of the verse emphasizes the comprehensive and successful nature of Jesus' interventions; He did not merely alleviate symptoms but brought about full recovery for all who were brought to Him.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And his fame went throughout all Syria":** This clause immediately establishes the extensive and rapid dissemination of Jesus' reputation. "Syria" refers to the large Roman province, highlighting that His influence was not localized but had spread widely beyond Galilee, attracting attention from a vast and diverse populace.
* **"and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments":** This describes the response to Jesus' fame. People actively sought Him out, bringing a comprehensive array of individuals suffering from a wide variety of physical illnesses ("divers diseases") and intense physical pain ("torments"). This underscores the depth of human suffering and the desperate hope placed in Jesus.
* **"and those which were possessed with devils":** This specifies a distinct category of suffering—spiritual affliction by demonic forces. Jesus' power over these entities was a profound demonstration of His authority over the unseen realm and the spiritual powers of darkness, signifying His unique identity and mission.
* **"and those which were lunatick, and those that had the palsy":** These are specific examples of severe and often chronic conditions. "Lunatick" (Greek _selēniázomai_) refers to those afflicted by conditions like epilepsy or certain mental illnesses, often associated with lunar cycles in ancient belief. "Palsy" (Greek _paralytikós_) refers to paralysis or severe muscular weakness. Their inclusion emphasizes the comprehensive nature of Jesus' healing, extending to conditions that were mysterious, debilitating, and often considered incurable.
* **"and he healed them":** This concluding phrase is concise yet immensely powerful. It serves as a definitive statement of Jesus' complete and effective power. Without exception or limitation, He brought about full restoration for every person brought before Him, regardless of the nature or severity of their affliction.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew 4:24 employs several literary devices to convey the profound impact of Jesus' ministry. The use of **Hyperbole** or **Generalization** is evident in phrases like "all Syria," "all sick people," and "divers diseases." While not strictly literal in every instance, these terms are used to emphasize the vast geographical reach of Jesus' fame and the comprehensive scope of His healing power, suggesting an overwhelming and universal response to His presence. Furthermore, the verse utilizes a **Catalogue** or **List** of afflictions ("diseases and torments," "possessed with devils," "lunatick," "palsy"). This detailed enumeration serves to highlight the breadth of human suffering that Jesus addressed, showcasing His authority over every form of brokenness—physical, mental, and spiritual. Finally, there is a powerful **Contrast** presented between the widespread and severe human suffering described and the simple, conclusive statement "and he healed them." This stark juxtaposition underscores Jesus' unparalleled power and compassion, presenting Him as the ultimate source of restoration in a world filled with pain.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 4:24 is rich in theological significance, presenting Jesus' healing ministry not merely as acts of compassion, but as tangible demonstrations of the Kingdom of God breaking into the world through His presence. His comprehensive power over all forms of sickness, torment, and demonic oppression reveals His divine authority and confirms His identity as the promised Messiah. These healings are not just physical remedies; they are signs that Jesus is actively undoing the effects of the Fall, reversing the curse of sin and death, and inaugurating an era of restoration and wholeness. The widespread fame reaching "all Syria" also foreshadows the universal scope of the Gospel, indicating that God's redemptive plan is not confined to one nation but extends to all humanity, inviting all who suffer to find healing and new life in Christ.

* [Matthew 8:16-17](/matthew/8-16-17 "Matthew 8:16-17 - Jesus Heals Many and Fulfills Prophecy")
* [Luke 4:40-41](/luke/4-40-41 "Luke 4:40-41 - Jesus Heals Many at Sunset")
* [Acts 10:38](/acts/10-38 "Acts 10:38 - God Anointed Jesus")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 4:24 offers profound encouragement and practical application for believers today. Just as Jesus' fame spread throughout Syria, drawing all who suffered to Him, His power and compassion remain undiminished. This verse assures us that no "disease or torment"—whether physical illness, emotional brokenness, mental anguish, or spiritual oppression—is beyond His capacity to heal. We are invited to bring our deepest needs and the burdens of those we love to Him, trusting in His sovereign power to restore and make whole. Furthermore, the widespread impact of Jesus' ministry serves as a powerful reminder of our call to share His "fame." As His followers, our transformed lives and acts of compassion should reflect His restorative grace, drawing others to seek Him. We are to be instruments through whom His healing presence continues to be known in a world still groaning under the weight of sickness and suffering, demonstrating that the Kingdom of God is indeed at hand.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "diseases and torments" in your life, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, do you need to bring to Jesus for healing today?**
* **How does Jesus' widespread fame and comprehensive healing in this verse encourage your faith in His power and compassion?**
* **In what ways can we, as followers of Christ, contribute to the spread of His "fame" and demonstrate His healing power in our communities?**

### FAQ

**What does "Syria" refer to in this context?**

Answer: In Matthew 4:24, "Syria" refers to the Roman province of Syria, a large and diverse region located to the north and east of Galilee. This indicates that Jesus' fame and the impact of His ministry were not confined to the Jewish territories of Galilee but had spread widely into a broader geographical area, potentially including mixed Jewish and Gentile populations. This highlights the extensive reach of His early ministry.

**What is meant by "lunatick" and "palsy" in this verse?**

Answer: The term "lunatick" (Greek _selēniázomai_) literally means "moonstruck." In ancient times, this term was often used to describe individuals suffering from conditions like epilepsy or certain forms of mental illness, which were sometimes believed to be influenced by lunar cycles. "Palsy" (Greek _paralytikós_) refers to paralysis or severe muscular weakness, making movement difficult or impossible. Both were common, debilitating, and often untreatable conditions in the ancient world, showcasing the breadth of Jesus' healing power.

**Does this verse suggest Jesus healed everyone who came to Him?**

Answer: Yes, the language used in Matthew 4:24, "they brought unto him all sick people... and he healed them," strongly indicates that Jesus healed every person who was brought to Him in this context. The comprehensive nature of the description ("all sick people," "divers diseases and torments," "possessed with devils," "lunatick," "palsy") followed by the definitive "he healed them" emphasizes the completeness and universality of His restorative power for those who sought Him out.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 4:24, with its vivid depiction of Jesus' comprehensive healing ministry, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in His redemptive work on the cross and His resurrection. While His physical healings were miraculous acts of compassion, they were also powerful signs pointing to His deeper mission: to address the root cause of all human suffering—sin and its consequence, death. Jesus, the Great Physician, did not merely alleviate symptoms; He came to heal humanity from its most profound brokenness. His bearing of our sicknesses and infirmities, as prophesied in [Isaiah 53:4](/isaiah/53-4 "Isaiah 53:4 - Bearing Our Sicknesses") and explicitly linked to His healing ministry by Matthew in [Matthew 8:17](/matthew/8-17 "Matthew 8:17 - Fulfillment of Isaiah's Prophecy"), culminates in His ultimate sacrifice. By His wounds, we are truly healed, not just physically, but spiritually and eternally, as affirmed in [1 Peter 2:24](/1_peter/2-24 "1 Peter 2:24 - By His Wounds You Were Healed"). The spreading of His fame throughout Syria foreshadows the Great Commission, where His disciples are charged to make His "fame" known to "all nations," bringing the spiritual healing of the Gospel to the entire world ([Matthew 28:19-20](/matthew/28-19-20 "Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission")). Thus, every physical healing in Matthew 4:24 points to the spiritual wholeness and eternal life offered through Christ's atoning work, anticipating the day when He will wipe away every tear and there will be no more death, sorrow, crying, or pain ([Revelation 21:4](/revelation/21-4 "Revelation 21:4 - No More Death or Pain")).

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

Matthew 17:15

Lord, have mercy on my son: for he is lunatick, and sore vexed: for ofttimes he falleth into the fire, and oft into the water.

Matthew 8:6

And saying, Lord, my servant lieth at home sick of the palsy, grievously tormented.

Matthew 15:22

And, behold, a woman of Canaan came out of the same coasts, and cried unto him, saying, Have mercy on me, O Lord, [thou] Son of David; my daughter is grievously vexed with a devil.

Luke 5:15

But so much the more went there a fame abroad of him: and great multitudes came together to hear, and to be healed by him of their infirmities.

Matthew 12:22

¶ Then was brought unto him one possessed with a devil, blind, and dumb: and he healed him, insomuch that the blind and dumb both spake and saw.

Matthew 17:18

And Jesus rebuked the devil; and he departed out of him: and the child was cured from that very hour.

Luke 2:2

([And] this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)