Matthew 8:1

KJV

¶ When he was come down from the mountain, great multitudes followed him.

KJV (with Strong's)

When {G1161} he {G846} was come down {G2597} from {G575} the mountain {G3735}, great {G4183} multitudes {G3793} followed {G190} him {G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

After Yeshua had come down from the hill, large crowds followed him.

Berean Standard Bible

When Jesus came down from the mountain, large crowds followed Him.

American Standard Version

And when he was come down from the mountain, great multitudes followed him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 8:1 serves as a crucial transitional verse in the Gospel narrative, marking the immediate aftermath of Jesus' profound Sermon on the Mount. It depicts Jesus' descent from the elevated teaching platform, signaling a shift from His verbal instruction to the powerful demonstration of His divine authority through miracles. The verse highlights the overwhelming public response to His teaching, as immense crowds, captivated by His words and person, continued to follow Him, eager to witness what would unfold next.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the climactic conclusion of the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew chapters 5-7), Jesus' longest recorded discourse, which detailed the ethical and spiritual demands of the Kingdom of Heaven. The sermon concluded with the crowd's astonishment at His authoritative teaching, noting that He taught "as one having authority, and not as the scribes" ([Matthew 7:29](/matthew/7-29 "Matthew 7:29 - Jesus' Authority in Teaching")). Matthew 8:1 thus acts as a narrative bridge, moving from Jesus' authoritative words to His authoritative deeds, which begin immediately with the healing of a leper in [Matthew 8:2-4](/matthew/8-2-4 "Matthew 8:2-4 - Jesus Heals a Leper"). This structural arrangement emphasizes that Jesus' authority is not merely theoretical but powerfully manifest in action, validating His claims and message.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, mountains often held symbolic significance as places of divine encounter and revelation, reminiscent of Moses receiving the Law on Mount Sinai. Jesus' descent from "the mountain" after delivering His new covenant teachings would have resonated with this tradition, suggesting a new, greater lawgiver. The "multitudes" following Him reflect the typical pattern of rabbinic teaching and healing ministries in first-century Galilee, where charismatic figures often attracted large followings. People traveled considerable distances, often driven by desperation for healing, spiritual guidance, or simply curiosity about a teacher whose authority surpassed that of the established religious leaders. This widespread interest underscores the societal impact of Jesus' burgeoning ministry.
* **Key Themes:** Matthew 8:1 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Matthew's Gospel. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Jesus' Authority**, transitioning from His authoritative teaching to His authoritative miracles, validating His claims as the Messiah. Secondly, it highlights the theme of **Response to Jesus**, showcasing the widespread popularity and magnetic appeal of His ministry, drawing "great multitudes" who sought Him out. This sets the stage for diverse responses to His call for discipleship, from genuine faith to mere curiosity, as explored in passages like [Matthew 13](/matthew/13 "Matthew 13 - The Parables of the Kingdom"). Finally, it foreshadows the theme of **Jesus' Compassion and Power over Disease**, as His immediate actions upon descending the mountain are acts of healing and restoration, demonstrating His concern for the afflicted and His power over the physical realm, as seen throughout [Matthew 8](/matthew/8 "Matthew 8 - Jesus' Miracles").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **was come down (Greek, _katabaínō'_):** This verb signifies a physical descent, but in this context, it carries profound theological weight. It marks a transition from the elevated space of teaching and revelation (the mountain) to the common ground where human suffering and need are encountered. The act of "coming down" implies accessibility and engagement with the world, contrasting with the previous posture of delivering divine truth from a position of authority.
* **multitudes (Greek, _óchlos'_):** This term refers to a large, often undifferentiated crowd or throng, emphasizing the sheer number and popular appeal of Jesus' ministry. It distinguishes the general public from the inner circle of disciples, highlighting the broad reach of Jesus' influence beyond a select few. The presence of such a "multitude" underscores the significant public interest and the widespread impact of Jesus' teaching.
* **followed (Greek, _akolouthéō'_):** This verb literally means "to be in the same way with" or "to accompany." While it can denote mere physical accompaniment, in the context of Jesus' ministry, it often implies a deeper commitment, especially as a disciple. Here, it suggests an active pursuit of Jesus, indicating that His words on the mountain had a compelling effect, drawing people to continue seeking His presence and further engagement with His ministry.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"When he was come down from the mountain,"**: This clause establishes the setting and the immediate aftermath of the Sermon on the Mount. The "mountain" serves as a symbolic location, reminiscent of Sinai, where divine law was given. Jesus' descent signifies the conclusion of His authoritative teaching and His return to the everyday world where His words would be put into action through miracles and further ministry. It marks a pivotal transition point in Matthew's narrative from discourse to deed.
* **"great multitudes followed him."**: This second clause reveals the profound impact of Jesus' teaching and presence. The "great multitudes" indicate the widespread public interest and the magnetic appeal of Jesus. Their act of "following him" demonstrates a compelling response to His authority and message, indicating not just passive listening but an active pursuit of His person, anticipating further revelation or intervention. This sets the stage for the subsequent demonstrations of Jesus' power and compassion.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew 8:1 employs several literary devices to convey its meaning and significance. The most prominent is **Transition**, as the verse explicitly marks a shift in Matthew's narrative from Jesus' extensive teaching (the Sermon on the Mount) to His subsequent miraculous works. This structural device highlights the seamless connection between Jesus' words and His deeds, demonstrating that His authority in teaching is validated by His power in action. The "mountain" itself functions as **Symbolism**, representing a place of divine revelation and authoritative instruction, akin to Mount Sinai. Jesus' descent from it symbolizes His bringing divine truth and power into the midst of humanity. Furthermore, the phrase "great multitudes" uses **Hyperbole** or **Emphasis** to underscore the immense popularity and widespread impact of Jesus' ministry, conveying the overwhelming number of people drawn to Him and setting the stage for the dramatic display of His power to a broad audience.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 8:1 profoundly connects Jesus' authoritative teaching with His divine power, illustrating that His words are not merely philosophical discourse but the very utterance of God, backed by the ability to transform reality. The immediate transition from the Sermon on the Mount to miraculous healings emphasizes that the Kingdom of Heaven, which Jesus proclaimed, is not just a future hope but an active, present reality breaking into the world through His person. The "great multitudes" following Him underscore humanity's deep-seated need for both divine truth and tangible deliverance, a need that only Jesus, the Messiah, can fully address. This verse sets the stage for the unfolding of Jesus' messianic identity, demonstrating that He is both the ultimate Teacher and the powerful Healer, fulfilling prophecies of a compassionate and authoritative deliverer.

* [Matthew 7:28-29](/matthew/7-28-29 "Matthew 7:28-29 - The Crowds' Amazement at Jesus' Teaching")
* [Mark 1:45](/mark/1-45 "Mark 1:45 - Jesus' Fame Spreads After Healing")
* [John 6:2](/john/6-2 "John 6:2 - Large Crowd Follows Jesus for Miracles")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 8:1 invites us to consider the nature of our own discipleship. Just as the crowds were compelled to follow Jesus after hearing His profound and authoritative words on the mountain, we are called to move beyond mere intellectual assent to His teachings. True faith necessitates an active "following"—a commitment to walk in His ways, to seek His presence, and to allow His authority to shape every aspect of our lives. This verse challenges us to ask whether our understanding of Christ's truth translates into a deeper, more active pursuit of Him daily. Are we merely curious onlookers, or are we among those who, having heard His word, are drawn to follow Him into the complexities of life, trusting in His power to transform not only our personal circumstances but also the world around us, just as He did for those who followed Him down from the mountain? This transition from hearing to doing, from instruction to active engagement, is fundamental to a vibrant and authentic faith.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Jesus' transition from teaching to performing miracles in this verse challenge my understanding of His authority?**
* **In what ways am I currently "following" Jesus, and where might I be merely a "multitude" or curious observer?**
* **What specific areas of my life need to move from intellectual understanding of Christ's teachings to active obedience and trust in His power?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of Jesus coming "down from the mountain"?**

Answer:Jesus coming "down from the mountain" is highly significant, both literally and symbolically. Literally, it marks the physical descent from the elevated location where He delivered the Sermon on the Mount, signaling the conclusion of this extensive teaching period. Symbolically, the mountain in biblical tradition often represents a place of divine revelation and encounter (e.g., Mount Sinai for Moses). Jesus' descent from it signifies His bringing the divine truths and authority He just proclaimed into the everyday lives of people, demonstrating that His Kingdom is not an abstract concept but a transformative reality that engages directly with human need and suffering. It marks a transition from the proclamation of the Kingdom's principles to the powerful demonstration of its reality through miracles, as seen immediately in [Matthew 8:2ff](/matthew/8-2 "Matthew 8:2 - Jesus Heals a Leper").

**Why were "great multitudes" following Jesus at this point?**

Answer:The "great multitudes" followed Jesus for a combination of reasons, reflecting the diverse motivations of people in His day. Primarily, they were drawn by the profound authority and wisdom of His teaching, which stood in stark contrast to the traditional instruction of the scribes and Pharisees ([Matthew 7:28-29](/matthew/7-28-29 "Matthew 7:28-29 - The Crowds' Amazement")). Beyond His words, there was widespread anticipation of His miraculous power. News of His healings and exorcisms had already begun to spread throughout Galilee and beyond ([Matthew 4:23-25](/matthew/4-23-25 "Matthew 4:23-25 - Jesus' Ministry in Galilee")). Many in the crowds were desperate for physical healing, deliverance from demonic oppression, or simply a tangible sign of God's presence. Their following was a blend of spiritual hunger, curiosity, and hope for practical intervention in their lives, setting the stage for the powerful demonstrations of His messianic authority that follow in [Matthew 8](/matthew/8 "Matthew 8 - Jesus' Miracles").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 8:1, depicting Jesus' descent from the mountain and the multitudes following Him, profoundly foreshadows and exemplifies the core of Christ's redemptive work. Just as Jesus "came down" from the elevated place of teaching to engage directly with human need, so too did He ultimately "come down" from His heavenly glory in the incarnation, taking on human flesh to dwell among us ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). This divine descent, a profound act of humility and love, is the ultimate fulfillment of God's desire to draw near to His people, not just to teach them, but to save them. The "great multitudes" following Him prefigure the universal call to salvation, inviting all people from every nation to come to Him for healing, deliverance, and eternal life. His authority, evident in both His teaching on the mountain and His subsequent miracles, points to His unique identity as the Son of God, the one through whom God has spoken and acted decisively ([Hebrews 1:1-3](/hebrews/1-1-3 "Hebrews 1:1-3 - God Speaks Through His Son")). The act of "following him" becomes the paradigm for true discipleship, a journey of faith and obedience that culminates in Christ's Great Commission, where His followers are sent out to make disciples of all nations, teaching them to obey all that He has commanded, knowing that He is with them always ([Matthew 28:18-20](/matthew/28-18-20 "Matthew 28:18-20 - The Great Commission")). Thus, Matthew 8:1 is not merely a narrative transition but a microcosm of Christ's entire mission: descending to humanity, demonstrating divine authority, and calling all to follow Him into new life.

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 8:18

¶ Now when Jesus saw great multitudes about him, he gave commandment to depart unto the other side.

Matthew 4:25

And there followed him great multitudes of people from Galilee, and [from] Decapolis, and [from] Jerusalem, and [from] Judaea, and [from] beyond Jordan.

Matthew 5:1

¶ And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him:

Matthew 20:29

¶ And as they departed from Jericho, a great multitude followed him.

Mark 3:7

But Jesus withdrew himself with his disciples to the sea: and a great multitude from Galilee followed him, and from Judaea,

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 19:2

And great multitudes followed him; and he healed them there.