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

MATTHEW 8:18KJV
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Matthew 8:18 (KJV)

What does Matthew 8:18 mean?

Matthew 8:18 describes how Jesus, seeing that large crowds were gathering around him, instructed his followers to leave and go to the other side of the lake. This shows Jesus making a deliberate decision to move away from the crowds at that moment.

In this scene, Jesus is surrounded by many people who are interested in his teaching and miracles. Instead of staying with the crowds, Jesus tells his disciples to prepare to cross over to the other side, likely referring to the Sea of Galilee. This sets the stage for the events that follow, including encounters and teachings that happen away from the large crowds.

The Greek behind Matthew 8:18

  • The word for "commandment" is ἐκέλευσεν (ekeleusen), which is often understood as a firm instruction or order, not just a casual suggestion. This highlights that Jesus was intentional and authoritative in directing his followers to leave.
  • The phrase "depart unto the other side" uses the Greek word περάν (peran), meaning "the other side" or "across." This points to a physical crossing, likely of the Sea of Galilee, and signals a transition to a new setting in the narrative.

Why Matthew 8:18 matters

  • This verse shows that Jesus was not controlled by popularity or crowd size; he chose his actions purposefully, sometimes moving away from attention.
  • It marks a turning point in the story, as Jesus prepares to teach and act in a different place, which leads to significant events in the following verses.
  • The verse helps clarify that Jesus’ mission was not just about attracting large groups, but about following a specific purpose and timing.

Where else these words appear

“side” Greek G4008 · used in 23 verses

  • Matthew 4:15 The land of Zabulon, and the land of Nephthalim, by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles;
  • Mark 4:35 And the same day, when the even was come, he saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side.
  • John 1:28 These things were done in Bethabara beyond Jordan, where John was baptizing.

“commandment” Greek G2753 · used in 27 verses

  • Matthew 14:9 And the king was sorry: nevertheless for the oath's sake, and them which sat with him at meat, he commanded it to be given her.
  • Acts 4:15 But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they conferred among themselves,
  • Acts 23:3 Then said Paul unto him, God shall smite thee, thou whited wall: for sittest thou to judge me after the law, and commandest me to be smitten contrary to the law?

“depart” Greek G565 · used in 118 verses

  • Matthew 2:22 But when he heard that Archelaus did reign in Judaea in the room of his father Herod, he was afraid to go thither: notwithstanding, being warned of God in a dream, he turned aside into the parts of Galilee:
  • Mark 5:20 And he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis how great things Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel.
  • Luke 24:12 Then arose Peter, and ran unto the sepulchre; and stooping down, he beheld the linen clothes laid by themselves, and departed, wondering in himself at that which was come to pass.