Matthew 9:1

KJV

¶ And he entered into a ship, and passed over, and came into his own city.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} he entered {G1684} into {G1519} a ship {G4143}, and passed over {G1276}, and {G2532} came {G2064} into {G1519} his own {G2398} city {G4172}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So he stepped into a boat, crossed the lake again and came to his own town.

Berean Standard Bible

Jesus got into a boat, crossed over, and came to His own town.

American Standard Version

And he entered into a boat, and crossed over, and came into his own city.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 9:1 serves as a pivotal transitional verse, signaling Jesus's deliberate return to Capernaum, His established base of operations in Galilee, after a significant encounter in the Gentile region of the Gergesenes. This concise statement not only marks a geographical shift but also sets the stage for a new series of powerful demonstrations of Jesus's authority, moving from His dominion over nature and demons to His power over sin and sickness, thereby advancing His redemptive mission.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the dramatic events of [Matthew 8](/matthew/8 "Matthew 8 - Jesus's Authority Demonstrated"), where Jesus displayed unparalleled authority over the natural world by [calming a violent storm](/matthew/8-23-27 "Matthew 8:23-27 - Jesus Calms the Storm") on the Sea of Galilee, and then over the spiritual realm by [casting out a legion of demons](/matthew/8-28-34 "Matthew 8:28-34 - The Demoniacs of Gadara") from two men into a herd of pigs in the region of the Gergesenes (or Gadarenes, depending on the manuscript tradition). The inhabitants of that region, overwhelmed by fear and perhaps economic loss, implored Jesus to depart. Thus, Matthew 9:1 describes Jesus's obedient departure from that hostile territory, crossing the Sea of Galilee back to the western shore, specifically to His "own city," Capernaum, where He would continue His ministry among the Jewish people. This transition marks a shift from a focus on Jesus's power over external forces to His authority over internal human conditions, setting up the healing of the paralytic in [Matthew 9:2-8](/matthew/9-2-8 "Matthew 9:2-8 - The Healing of the Paralytic").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The phrase "his own city" refers to Capernaum, a bustling fishing and trade town located on the northwestern shore of the Sea of Galilee. While Jesus was born in Bethlehem and grew up in Nazareth, Capernaum became the primary hub of His Galilean ministry after He left Nazareth ([Matthew 4:13](/matthew/4-13 "Matthew 4:13 - Jesus Settles in Capernaum")). It was strategically important due to its location on major trade routes and its proximity to a customs station, making it a melting pot of various people groups and a prime location for the dissemination of His teachings. Capernaum was a Jewish town, distinct from the Gentile-dominated Decapolis region from which Jesus had just come. The synagogue in Capernaum was a frequent site of Jesus's teaching ([Mark 1:21](/mark/1-21 "Mark 1:21 - Jesus Teaches in Capernaum")), and many of His miracles were performed there, including the healing of Peter's mother-in-law ([Matthew 8:14-15](/matthew/8-14-15 "Matthew 8:14-15 - Healing Peter's Mother-in-Law")) and the centurion's servant ([Matthew 8:5-13](/matthew/8-5-13 "Matthew 8:5-13 - The Centurion's Faith")). This return signifies Jesus's focus on His primary mission field among the Jewish people, despite His occasional forays into Gentile territories.
* **Key Themes:** Matthew 9:1 encapsulates several key themes prevalent in Matthew's Gospel. Firstly, it highlights **Jesus's purposeful movement** and **divine authority**; His actions are not random but guided by a divine plan to reach and teach different communities, even in the face of rejection. His ability to "pass over" the sea underscores His mastery over creation. Secondly, the designation of Capernaum as "his own city" emphasizes its **centrality as the operational center** for Jesus's early public ministry, signifying the establishment of His earthly headquarters from which His kingdom message would radiate. This strategic base allowed for consistent teaching, healing, and disciple-making. Thirdly, the verse serves as a **critical transition in the narrative of Jesus's ministry**, concluding a section focused on His power over nature and demons and preparing the reader for a new series of demonstrations of His authority over sin and sickness, beginning immediately in [Matthew 9:2](/matthew/9-2 "Matthew 9:2 - The Healing of the Paralytic"). This progression reveals the multifaceted nature of Jesus's saving work.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **entered (Greek, _embaínō'_):** From G1684, meaning "to walk on, i.e. embark (aboard a vessel), reach (a pool)." This word precisely describes Jesus's action of stepping into the ship. It signifies a deliberate and intentional movement, not a casual boarding. In the context of the preceding events, it indicates His immediate and purposeful departure from the Gergesene region, responding to the inhabitants' request.
* **passed over (Greek, _diaperáō'_):** From G1276, meaning "to cross entirely." This verb emphasizes the complete traversal of the Sea of Galilee. It highlights the journey itself, a significant crossing that separated Him from the Gentile territory and brought Him back to the Jewish region. The act of "passing over" reinforces the idea of a distinct boundary being crossed, both geographically and perhaps thematically, as He moves from a place of rejection to a place where His ministry would continue to flourish.
* **his own (Greek, _ídios'_):** From G2398, meaning "pertaining to self, i.e. one's own; by implication, private or separate." This possessive adjective is crucial as it clarifies that Capernaum was Jesus's personal, adopted city or base of operations during His public ministry, distinguishing it from His birth city (Bethlehem) or childhood home (Nazareth). It underscores a deep, personal connection and establishment of a ministry headquarters, highlighting the strategic importance of Capernaum to Jesus's mission.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he entered into a ship":** This clause describes Jesus's immediate action following the encounter in the Gergesenes. The "ship" (Greek, _ploîon_) was likely a common fishing boat, serving as His mode of transport across the Sea of Galilee. His entry into the vessel signifies His compliance with the request of the Gergesenes to leave their territory, but also His proactive continuation of His mission.
* **"and passed over":** This phrase indicates the journey across the Sea of Galilee. The Greek verb _diaperáō_ (G1276) implies a complete crossing, from one shore to the other. This journey is not just a geographical movement but a transition from a region where His power was met with fear and rejection to a familiar environment where His ministry was more established.
* **"and came into his own city":** This final clause identifies the destination as Capernaum, referred to as "his own city" (Greek, _ídios pólis_). This designation emphasizes Capernaum's role as Jesus's adopted home and the central hub for His Galilean ministry. His arrival there signals the continuation of His work among the Jewish people, setting the stage for the next series of miracles and teachings.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew 9:1, though brief, effectively employs several literary devices. It functions primarily as a **Transition** verse, smoothly bridging the dramatic events of [Matthew 8](/matthew/8 "Matthew 8 - Jesus's Authority Demonstrated") with the new series of miracles and teachings that begin in [Matthew 9](/matthew/9 "Matthew 9 - Jesus's Authority Over Sin and Sickness"). The phrase "passed over" acts as a **Geographical Marker**, clearly delineating the shift in location from the eastern, largely Gentile, side of the Sea of Galilee to the western, Jewish, side. The designation "his own city" uses **Possessive Language** to underscore the unique relationship Jesus had with Capernaum, highlighting its significance as His base of operations and a focal point for His ministry. This subtle emphasis on "his own" also provides a sense of **Return and Establishment**, indicating that Jesus is not aimlessly wandering but strategically establishing His presence where His message can be consistently delivered. The verse also serves as **Narrative Progression**, efficiently moving the story forward and setting the immediate scene for the healing of the paralytic, demonstrating Matthew's concise and purposeful storytelling style.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 9:1, while seemingly a simple geographical notation, carries profound theological weight. It underscores Jesus's sovereign control over His ministry, demonstrating that His movements are not dictated by human whims or rejection but are part of a divine, strategic plan. His return to "his own city" (Capernaum) signifies the importance of a stable base for ministry, a place of consistent teaching and healing, even as He occasionally ventures into new territories. This purposeful movement highlights His commitment to the mission of the Kingdom, adapting His approach to different receptivities. The verse also subtly reinforces Jesus's authority, as He effortlessly traverses the sea, a domain often associated with chaos in ancient thought, and returns to a place where His power will be further revealed, particularly in His authority to forgive sins.

* [Mark 4:35](/mark/4-35 "Mark 4:35 - Jesus Crosses the Sea") - Similar account of Jesus crossing the sea, emphasizing His authority over nature.
* [Luke 4:31](/luke/4-31 "Luke 4:31 - Jesus Teaches in Capernaum") - Confirms Capernaum as a significant place for Jesus's teaching ministry.
* [John 1:11](/john/1-11 "John 1:11 - He Came to His Own") - Though referring to His own people, it echoes the theme of Jesus coming to "His own" places and people, often facing rejection.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 9:1, though brief, offers rich insights for contemporary believers. Jesus's intentional movement, even in the face of rejection from the Gergesenes, reminds us that ministry often involves strategic shifts and resilience. We are called not to linger where the Gospel is consistently unwelcome but to prayerfully seek new "cities" or contexts where God's message can be received and cultivated. Just as Capernaum became Jesus's "own city" – a base for consistent and impactful ministry – we too are called to identify and commit to our own spheres of influence, be it our families, workplaces, neighborhoods, or local churches. This verse encourages us to be purposeful in our service, to establish roots in a community for sustained impact, and to trust in God's guidance for our next steps, knowing that even in transitions, He is advancing His kingdom. It also serves as a reminder that rejection in one area does not negate God's call; rather, it often redirects us to new opportunities for faithfulness and fruitfulness.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **Where is your "own city" – the place or community where you are called to consistently serve and share the Gospel?**
* **How do you respond when your efforts to share faith are met with rejection? What can you learn from Jesus's purposeful movement in such situations?**
* **In what ways can you be more intentional and strategic in your personal ministry or service within your current context?**

### FAQ

**Why is Capernaum referred to as "his own city" when Jesus was born in Bethlehem and grew up in Nazareth?**

Answer: While Jesus was indeed born in [Bethlehem](/micah/5-2 "Micah 5:2 - Prophecy of Bethlehem") and raised in [Nazareth](/luke/2-39-40 "Luke 2:39-40 - Jesus's Childhood in Nazareth"), Capernaum became His primary residence and the central hub of His public ministry in Galilee. After He began His public ministry, He "left Nazareth and went and lived in Capernaum" ([Matthew 4:13](/matthew/4-13 "Matthew 4:13 - Jesus Settles in Capernaum")). Therefore, "his own city" designates Capernaum as His adopted home and operational headquarters during the crucial period of His Galilean ministry, from which He launched many of His teaching tours and performed numerous miracles. It was the place where He had established a base, a home, and a consistent presence among the people.

**What is the significance of Jesus crossing the sea after the incident with the demoniacs?**

Answer: The act of "passing over" the Sea of Galilee carries multiple layers of significance. Firstly, it represents a geographical and cultural shift. Jesus was moving from the predominantly Gentile region of the Gergesenes/Gadarenes on the eastern side of the sea, where He had been asked to leave, back to the Jewish territory on the western side, specifically Capernaum. This highlights His strategic focus on ministering to Israel first, while also demonstrating His willingness to engage with Gentiles. Secondly, it underscores Jesus's authority over creation; the same sea He had just calmed in [Matthew 8:23-27](/matthew/8-23-27 "Matthew 8:23-27 - Jesus Calms the Storm") now serves as His path, emphasizing His mastery over the natural world. Thirdly, it marks a narrative transition, closing the chapter on His authority over nature and demons and opening a new one focused on His authority over sin and sickness, beginning with the healing of the paralytic in [Matthew 9:2](/matthew/9-2 "Matthew 9:2 - The Healing of the Paralytic").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 9:1, in its simple declaration of Jesus's purposeful movement, foreshadows and embodies profound aspects of His Christ-centered fulfillment. His act of "passing over" the sea from a place of rejection to "his own city" reflects the broader trajectory of His redemptive mission. Just as He left the Gentile region where He was unwelcome to return to His established base among His own people, so too did Christ, in His incarnation, "pass over" from the glory of heaven to dwell among humanity, His creation ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). His establishment of Capernaum as "his own city" prefigures the establishment of His spiritual kingdom, the Church, which becomes His new "city" or dwelling place on earth, built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone ([Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19-22 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Christ's Household")). Furthermore, His return to Capernaum to continue His work of healing and forgiveness, immediately demonstrated in the healing of the paralytic ([Matthew 9:2-8](/matthew/9-2-8 "Matthew 9:2-8 - The Healing of the Paralytic")), points to His ultimate purpose: to reconcile humanity to God by taking away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")) and to offer spiritual healing and new life to all who believe. His purposeful journey in Matthew 9:1 is a microcosm of His entire earthly ministry – a strategic, divinely orchestrated movement towards the cross and resurrection, ensuring that salvation would "pass over" to all who call upon His name ([Romans 10:13](/romans/10-13 "Romans 10:13 - Call on the Name of the Lord")).

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 4:13

And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim:

Luke 8:37

Then the whole multitude of the country of the Gadarenes round about besought him to depart from them; for they were taken with great fear: and he went up into the ship, and returned back again.

Matthew 7:6

Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.

Matthew 8:18

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

Mark 5:21

¶ And when Jesus was passed over again by ship unto the other side, much people gathered unto him: and he was nigh unto the sea.

Revelation 22:11

He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still.

Matthew 8:23

¶ And when he was entered into a ship, his disciples followed him.