Definition: At that time Jesus went on the sabbath day through the corn; and his disciples were an hungred, and began to pluck the ears of corn, and to eat.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Matthew 12:1. It's a really interesting story about Jesus and his followers. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Jesus was walking through a field of corn (a large field of wheat) on the Sabbath. His disciples – the people who followed him – were hungry, and they started to pick the ears of corn and eat them. What it’s about: This story is about Jesus’s teaching about sharing. It's a key part of his message about how to be good neighbors and brothers/sisters. “At that time Jesus went on the sabbath day…” – This means Jesus was spending the Sabbath, which is a holy day of rest in Jewish tradition. “…through the corn” – Jesus was walking through a field filled with corn. "...and his disciples were an hungred.” – The disciples were feeling hungry. "...and began to pluck the ears of corn, and to eat." – They started picking the corn and eating it! The Meaning – It’s about generosity: This story is teaching us that Jesus wants us to be generous with our resources. He's telling us to share what we have with others, especially those who are hungry. It emphasizes a spirit of compassion and helping those in need. In short: Jesus was showing his disciples how to be kind and helpful by sharing their food – and that’s a core message about love and generosity. --- Do you want me to explain any aspect of this story further? For example, I could delve into: The significance of the Sabbath The parable's broader meaning about compassion How this story relates to Jesus’s teachings on forgiveness or loving your neighbor

Definition: And, behold, there was a man which had [his] hand withered. And they asked him, saying, Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath days? that they might accuse him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this Bible verse together. It’s a really interesting and complex one, and it speaks to a crucial moment in Jesus' ministry. Here’s a simple explanation: The Basic Situation: Jesus is talking about a man who was physically ill (“withered”) – meaning he was suffering from a serious illness or pain. A group of people are questioning whether it’s okay for him to heal on the Sabbath, which is a day off from work and activity. What It Means: "There was a man which had [his] hand withered." – This means he was experiencing intense suffering, perhaps due to a chronic illness or a severe injury. The word "withered" suggests something dying away or losing its strength. “And they asked him, saying, Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath days?” – They are essentially challenging Jesus' ability to help someone who is suffering on a day that’s usually reserved for rest and worship. The Core of the Message: Jesus is highlighting a test or a challenge . He’s showing that He’s not just capable of healing, but He’s also willing to do so when it doesn't disrupt the established rules and order of the day. It’s about demonstrating His authority and being mindful of God’s law. Why is this important? This story demonstrates several key things: Jesus’ Authority: He is showing that He has the power to help people, even when it's not expected or convenient. Respect for Tradition: It shows that Jesus isn’t just concerned with doing good deeds, but also understands and respects the established rules and customs (like Sabbath). He’s setting a precedent by understanding this boundary. In short, the verse is about Jesus being willing to help people in a way that doesn't conflict with God’s laws. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific aspect of this story further? (e.g., its historical context?) Give you a different version of the verse? Answer any questions you have about it?

Definition: And he said unto them, What man shall there be among you, that shall have one sheep, and if it fall into a pit on the sabbath day, will he not lay hold on it, and lift [it] out?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 12:11. It’s a really important concept in understanding Jesus' teachings about stewardship and responsibility. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: Jesus is saying that as a leader or someone who has something valuable (like an animal or a flock of sheep), they should be extremely careful and responsible with it. He’s posing a question to illustrate this point. Let's unpack the parts: “And he said unto them…” : This means Jesus is speaking directly to a group of people – likely his disciples. “…What man shall there be among you, that shall have one sheep, and if it fall into a pit on the sabbath day, will he not lay hold on it, and lift [it] out?” This is the tricky part. Let’s break down what “fall into a pit” means: “A pit” : This refers to a place of punishment or misfortune – like being lost in the desert or suffering a terrible consequence. “On the sabbath day” : "Sabbath" is a Jewish holiday where people are encouraged to rest and reflect. It’s a day of holy rest. So, “sabbath day” means on that specific day . Putting it all together – The Meaning: Jesus is asking: “If a person has one sheep, what should they do if that sheep gets lost or trapped on the Sabbath? How should they protect and care for it?” Essentially, he’s emphasizing the importance of taking responsibility for your own things. It's about prioritizing and safeguarding something valuable, especially when you have to leave it behind for a day of rest. Why is this important? This verse highlights several key ideas: Responsibility: It emphasizes that we are responsible for the things we possess. Care and Protection: It stresses the need to protect our possessions, especially when they’re not immediately accessible. Prioritization: It suggests a focus on safeguarding what's truly important. In short, Jesus is teaching about prudence and care – that you should be diligent in protecting what you have, particularly when it involves a day of rest or tranquility. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with an analogy? Discuss the context of this passage within the broader story of Jesus’ teachings?

Definition: How much then is a man better than a sheep? Wherefore it is lawful to do well on the sabbath days.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Matthew 12:12. It's a really interesting and complex idea that gets at a core concept of Jesus’ teachings. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: This verse is about true wealth and success – not just material possessions, but also spiritual and moral well-being. It’s asking if a man can be better off than a sheep. Let's unpack it word by word: “Matthew 12:12 How much then is a man better than a sheep?” – This is the question at the heart of the verse. It's highlighting a comparison between two very different things – a man and a sheep. "Wherefore it is lawful to do well on the sabbath days." – This is the key part that makes it profound. "Sabbath days" refers to the Jewish Sabbath, which was a time of rest and holiness. It was a day when God rested and people were supposed to be separate from work. The phrase “it is lawful” means “it’s permitted.” Putting it together – The Meaning: Jesus is saying that a man who cultivates spiritual wealth (like righteousness, faith, love, and forgiveness) can achieve greater things than a sheep. A sheep is simply an animal that grazes on the land; it doesn’t have much of its own agency or ability to thrive. A man can be better off because he's focused on things that lead to a fulfilling and blessed life. Why is this important? This verse speaks to the importance of: True Wealth: It’s not about money, but about something deeper – a relationship with God, a good heart, and a way of living that brings fulfillment. Moral Living: Jesus is emphasizing that true success comes from living a righteous life. Important Note: The exact meaning of this verse has been debated for centuries. It’s not always a straightforward comparison. It's about the potential for greater good and flourishing than a simple, animalistic existence. In short, Jesus is saying that true prosperity – spiritual and moral well-being – is far more valuable than simply being able to do things in the world. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in a different way? Provide examples of how these principles apply in our lives?

Definition: Then saith he to the man, Stretch forth thine hand. And he stretched [it] forth; and it was restored whole, like as the other.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down that verse from Matthew 12:13. It’s a really interesting little scene! Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: This verse describes Jesus performing a miracle – restoring something that was broken or damaged. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Then saith he…” : This is Jesus speaking directly to the man. It’s like him saying, “Listen carefully.” “…to the man…” : He’s addressing a specific person. “…Stretch forth thine hand…” : Jesus is reaching out with his hand. This symbolizes a gesture of compassion and help. “…and he stretched [it] forth; and it was restored whole, like as the other.” : This is the key part! The man’s hand (representing something that was damaged or broken) was restored to its original state – completely whole again. What does this mean in a broader sense? It's often interpreted as: Forgiveness and Redemption: Jesus is offering forgiveness for someone's mistake or wrongdoing. He’s restoring them to wholeness, like fixing something broken. Healing and Restoration: It can also represent healing – both physical and spiritual – bringing something back to its original state of goodness. In short, it’s a powerful image of Jesus offering help, making things right, and restoring what was lost. --- Do you want me to explain any of this further? For example, would you like me to: Discuss the context of the verse within the larger story of Matthew 12? Explain why this image is often used as a symbol?

Definition: Then the Pharisees went out, and held a council against him, how they might destroy him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down Matthew 12:14. It's a really important part of Jesus’ teachings about following His teachings and being careful with authority. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Jesus is telling the Pharisees that they are too worried about trying to stop him. They’re focused on destroying him, which is a pretty dramatic idea for someone who's teaching about God and righteousness. Let’s unpack it further: “The Pharisees went out…” : This means the Pharisees – a group of religious leaders – were talking and debating with Jesus. “…and held a council against him…” : They were organizing a meeting to discuss what to do with Jesus. It suggests they weren't just casually chatting; they were planning something serious. “how they might destroy him.” : This is the key part. They were worried that Jesus would be attacked or harmed by someone. This shows their fear and perhaps a lack of trust in Jesus’ teachings. What it's saying about Jesus: Jesus isn’t being challenged here. He’s acknowledging their concerns, but he's also demonstrating his power and authority. He’s teaching that it’s important to be wise and thoughtful about how we speak and what we do, especially when dealing with those in positions of influence like the religious leaders. In essence, it's a warning to stay focused on following God’s will and doing good, rather than worrying about getting rid of someone. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about what was happening during this time in the Bible? Answer any specific questions you have about this passage?

Definition: But when Jesus knew [it], he withdrew himself from thence: and great multitudes followed him, and he healed them all;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Matthew 12:15. It’s a really important verse that speaks about Jesus' power and how his ministry was beginning to grow. Here’s the explanation in simple terms: What it says: “But when Jesus knew they were following him, he withdrew himself from thence: and great multitudes followed him, and he healed them all.” Let's unpack it: "When Jesus knew..." – This means Jesus was noticing something. He wasn’t just passively doing things; he was aware of the people around him. "...he withdrew himself from thence:" – This is a bit tricky, but it basically means “He turned away.” Jesus wasn't staying in place. He was moving to a different location. "And great multitudes followed him..." – This is the key part! A huge crowd of people started to gather around Jesus. It’s not just a few; it’s a massive group. "...and he healed them all." – This means Jesus was actively helping people who were sick and hurting. He was providing comfort and making things better for them. What does this mean? This verse is about Jesus starting to show his power and healing abilities. It’s a sign that His ministry was gaining momentum – he was attracting attention, and people were responding to him with great interest. It's also a moment where He clearly demonstrated that He was the Messiah (the one prophesied in Jewish tradition) and could do amazing things. In short: Jesus wasn’t just doing good deeds; He was attracting a huge crowd who were eager to see Him help others. It's like when you see someone struggling – they might start to notice you, and you might be moved to offer them help. That's what happened with Jesus! --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you a little more context about the time this passage was written?

Definition: And charged them that they should not make him known:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this very important verse from Matthew 12:16. It's a key part of understanding Jesus’ teachings about revealing God’s will. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: Jesus is telling his followers that they shouldn't publicly announce or spread the word about him. He’s saying it’s important to keep this secret for a reason. Let’s unpack it further: “Charged them” : This suggests Jesus is addressing a group of people – likely his disciples – and giving them a specific instruction. “…that they should not make him known…” : This is the main point. He's saying that they shouldn’t reveal or share his story, his teachings, or his identity. Why is this important? Historically, Jesus was a very public figure – he traveled widely, taught openly, and even faced persecution. Jesus wanted to protect himself and his followers from being exploited or misunderstood. It's like when you don’t want everyone knowing your business. What does this tell us about Jesus? He valued privacy: Jesus was careful not to reveal his divine nature or his plans for the future. He wanted to be protected: He likely felt that revealing himself too openly would make him vulnerable to those who might seek to control him or use him for their own purposes. It’s a principle of trust: This verse is often interpreted as a reminder that trusting God and believing in him should be done with discretion and humility. In short, Jesus wants us to respect his privacy and not share his story without his permission. --- Do you want me to explain any of this further? For example, would you like me to: Give you a little background on the context of this verse in Matthew 12? Explain what "secret" might mean in this context?

Definition: That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that famous verse from Matthew 12:17. It's a really important and layered statement about God’s plan and how things will work out. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is part of a larger story about Jesus’ ministry and the future of the kingdom of heaven. It’s saying that something that was prophesied (a prediction) by an old prophet named Esaias will actually happen. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “That it might be fulfilled…” – This means "it will come to pass" or “this will take place.” It’s about a future event that is being predicted. “…which was spoken by Esaias the prophet…” – Esaias was a Jewish prophet who lived around the time of Jesus. He wrote down predictions about the coming Messiah (a human king who would bring peace and justice). This verse refers to a specific prophecy Esaias made. "...saying," - This is crucial! It’s telling us that this prophecy was already being spoken, meaning it's not just a brand new prediction – it’s a part of something that has already happened or will happen in the future. Putting it all together: The verse basically says that a prophecy about Jesus' future ministry (like how he would heal the sick and forgive sins) will come to be realized. It means Jesus is going to do exactly what Esaias predicted! In simpler terms, it’s saying that God's plan for Jesus to change lives and bring about good will actually happen. Why is this important? This verse is a cornerstone of Christian theology. It highlights the idea of God working in ways we can’t fully understand. It suggests that God's purposes are not always clear, but He works all things together for his own glory (Romans 8:28). --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Give you more context about Esaias and the prophecy he made? Talk about how this verse relates to Jesus’ teachings?

Definition: Behold my servant, whom I have chosen; my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased: I will put my spirit upon him, and he shall shew judgment to the Gentiles.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this really important verse from Matthew 12:18. It's a complex passage, but we can simplify it into understandable terms. Here’s what it means, broken down piece by piece: 1. "Matthew 12:18 Behold my servant…" – This is Jesus speaking and saying something significant. “Behold” is a Greek word that means “look.” So, he's about to reveal something important. 2. “…whom I have chosen…” – This is a very powerful phrase. It means Jesus has made someone special for a purpose. "Chosen" implies being selected and given a role. 3. “…my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased:” – This is the core of the verse. “My beloved” means Jesus loves you deeply. “In whom my soul is well pleased” means Jesus fills you with joy and contentment – it’s a profound happiness that comes from being near him. It’s like saying, "I am happy to be with you." 4. “I will put my spirit upon him…” – This is where the key meaning really comes in. Jesus isn't just talking about any person he has chosen. He’s specifically choosing one individual – a messenger or representative for the Gentiles (people outside of Israel). “My spirit” refers to God himself, but in this context, it represents divine guidance and judgment. 5. “…and he shall shew judgment to the Gentiles.” – This is the final part that really explains what Jesus will do. “He shall show judgment” means Jesus will deliver a righteous verdict or punishment to the people outside of Israel. “To the Gentiles” refers to all the non-Jewish peoples of the world – meaning everyone who isn’t Jewish. It's about bringing justice and making it right for them, even though they don't follow God's laws as we do. In simpler terms: Jesus is choosing one person (a messenger) to be a judge for all people outside of Israel. He's going to use this person to bring fair judgment and righteousness to the world. It’s about bringing justice and making the world a better place, even though it means challenging traditional Jewish beliefs. What does this verse say about Jesus? It says that Jesus is coming to do a very important job – to be the judge and deliverer for everyone, not just Jewish people. He's demonstrating His power and purpose through this act of judgment. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Give you an example of how this verse might be used in the Bible? Discuss what this passage suggests about Jesus’ role in history?