Matthew 8:23

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

And {G2532} when he {G846} was entered {G1684} into {G1519} a ship {G4143}, his {G846} disciples {G3101} followed {G190} him {G846}.

He boarded the boat, and his talmidim followed.

When He got into the boat, His disciples followed Him.

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

Commentary

Context

Matthew 8:23 serves as a pivotal transitional verse, setting the stage for one of Jesus' most remarkable miracles: the calming of the storm. Prior to this, Jesus has demonstrated His divine power through a series of healings, including a leper (Matthew 8:1-4), the centurion's servant (Matthew 8:5-13), and Peter's mother-in-law (Matthew 8:14-15). He had also just engaged in significant discussions about the cost of discipleship (Matthew 8:18-22), emphasizing that following Him might involve hardship and lack of worldly comfort. This verse marks a physical departure from Capernaum, as Jesus and His disciples embark on a journey across the Sea of Galilee, leading directly into a test of their faith.

Key Themes

  • Following Christ: The most direct theme is the act of discipleship. The disciples' decision to "follow him" into the ship signifies their commitment to Jesus, even when the destination or circumstances are unknown. This act of following is central to the Christian walk.
  • Transition and Preparation: This verse indicates a shift in setting and activity. It's not just a change of location but a preparation for a profound display of Jesus' authority over creation, which will immediately follow. Journeys in the Bible often precede significant revelations or challenges.
  • Jesus' Initiative: Jesus "entered into a ship," demonstrating His leadership. The disciples' response is to follow, underscoring their role as learners and adherents to His path.

Linguistic Insight

The KJV uses "ship," which in this context refers to a common fishing boat used on the Sea of Galilee. There isn't a complex Greek word here that adds significant theological nuance beyond its literal meaning. The simplicity of the phrase "entered into a ship, his disciples followed him" highlights the straightforward nature of their immediate obedience and commitment to Jesus' movements.

Significance and Application

Matthew 8:23, though brief, carries profound implications for believers today:

  • Discipleship Requires Trust: Just as the disciples followed Jesus into the boat without knowing what lay ahead (a life-threatening storm), we are called to follow Christ even when the path is uncertain or challenging. True discipleship means trusting His leadership regardless of the perceived risks.
  • Preparation for Trials: Often, periods of teaching and miraculous demonstrations are followed by trials that test our faith. This verse subtly prepares us for the idea that following Jesus does not guarantee a smooth journey but often leads into situations where our faith is refined. The calm before the storm in this verse serves as a reminder that God prepares us for what's to come.
  • Jesus Leads the Way: Jesus is always the one who goes first. He enters the "ship" (our circumstances, our challenges) and invites us to join Him. Our role is to respond in faith and obedience, knowing that He is in control, even when the "waves" become overwhelming (Matthew 8:24-27).

This verse reminds us that the Christian life is a journey with Christ, where our role is to follow Him faithfully, trusting His guidance through calm waters and turbulent seas alike.

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Cross-References

  • Luke 8:22 (9 votes)

    ¶ Now it came to pass on a certain day, that he went into a ship with his disciples: and he said unto them, Let us go over unto the other side of the lake. And they launched forth.

  • Luke 8:25 (9 votes)

    And he said unto them, Where is your faith? And they being afraid wondered, saying one to another, What manner of man is this! for he commandeth even the winds and water, and they obey him.

  • Mark 4:36 (8 votes)

    And when they had sent away the multitude, they took him even as he was in the ship. And there were also with him other little ships.

  • Mark 4:41 (8 votes)

    And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?

  • Matthew 9:1 (2 votes)

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

  • Luke 7:22 (1 votes)

    Then Jesus answering said unto them, Go your way, and tell John what things ye have seen and heard; how that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, to the poor the gospel is preached.