Matthew 14:35 (KJV)

What does Matthew 14:35 mean?

Matthew 14:35 describes how, when the local men realized Jesus was present in their area, they quickly spread the word throughout the surrounding region and brought all the sick people to Him. The verse highlights the eagerness of the community to seek Jesus for healing as soon as they recognized Him.

In this scene, Jesus has arrived in a new place after crossing the sea, and the people there immediately recognize who He is. The men act as messengers, notifying the wider area and gathering everyone who is ill to come to Jesus. This verse shows the reputation Jesus had gained and the hope people placed in His ability to heal.

The Greek behind Matthew 14:35

• γνώσις (epégnōsan, "had knowledge"): The Greek word here means more than just recognizing someone; it often carries the sense of fully realizing or understanding who Jesus was. This helps explain the urgency in their response.
• ἀπέστειλαν (apesteilan, "they sent out"): This word suggests an active effort, not just casual mention. The people organized and took initiative to spread the news widely.
• περιχώρῳ (perichōrō, "country round about"): This term refers to the surrounding region, showing that the news about Jesus spread beyond just the immediate town and reached a broader area.
• κακῶς ἔχοντας (kakōs echontas, "all that were diseased"): This phrase means those who were in a bad condition or suffering, emphasizing the wide range of illnesses and needs among the people brought to Jesus.

Why Matthew 14:35 matters

• Matthew 14:35 clarifies that Jesus' reputation as a healer was well established, and people responded quickly and collectively when He arrived.
• The verse shows the communal nature of the response; it was not just individuals seeking help, but the whole community working together to bring the sick to Jesus.
• This verse connects to the wider passage by setting up the context for the miracles that follow, showing the faith and expectation of the people as they approach Jesus.