Definition: And said unto his servants, This is John the Baptist; he is risen from the dead; and therefore mighty works do shew forth themselves in him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Matthew 14:2. It's a really interesting and significant part of the Bible! Here’s a simple explanation: What it means: This verse describes a dramatic event that Jesus performed when he was tempted to flee from the authorities. Let’s unpack it: “And said unto his servants…” – This tells us Jesus is speaking to someone who's with him, likely his disciples (the followers of Jesus). “…this is John the Baptist; he is risen from the dead.” – John the Baptist was a preacher and leader who had been imprisoned and executed for proclaiming about Jesus. The key here is that he has been resurrected! This is a HUGE deal - it means he’s alive and not dead. “…and therefore mighty works do shew forth themselves in him.” – This is the most important part. "Mighty works" refers to extraordinary events, things that are beyond normal or expected. The verse says that because John is alive, these miracles are happening . It’s like saying that if someone's alive, they’re more likely to do amazing things! In simpler terms: Jesus was showing his power and authority by performing incredible acts – miracles – when he was being threatened. Because John is alive, these miraculous events are proving his divine nature and the truth of his message. What does this mean for us? This verse highlights several important things: Jesus’s divinity: It shows that Jesus isn't just a human leader; he’s God in person! The power of faith: It suggests that belief in Jesus can lead to extraordinary events and blessings. The importance of truth: Jesus is demonstrating the truth of his message, which is powerful because it's beyond what we expect or understand. Important Note: This passage is often interpreted as a sign that Jesus’s resurrection was very significant! --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage in more detail? Give you some possible interpretations of what this verse might mean?

Definition: And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the fragments that remained twelve baskets full.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Matthew 14:20. It’s a really significant story about Jesus’ power and how he handles difficult situations. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Jesus was walking through a field with two disciples. Suddenly, a huge storm came on, and lightning struck the ground. This caused a massive pile of stones – think like giant, heavy rocks – to fall down, covering Jesus’ feet and blocking his path. What happened next? They Ate: The disciples, panicked and desperate, started eating the stones. They were full! Filled Baskets: They took up twelve baskets filled with the stones. It sounds like a lot of food, but it’s actually a clever way for Jesus to show his power. What does this tell us? This story is about Jesus' control over matter – things that are physically present. He was showing his authority and strength by controlling something so large and destructive. It’s also a symbol of how he can handle difficult or overwhelming situations with ease and precision. Key Interpretations & Significance: Jesus’ Power: This story highlights Jesus’ power over creation itself – the things that exist outside of us. Divine Intervention: It suggests that Jesus is actively involved in the world, intervening to protect his followers and overcome obstacles. Humility: It can also be seen as a reminder that we shouldn't try to control everything. Sometimes, it’s good to let things happen naturally, allowing for divine intervention. Basically, this verse illustrates Jesus’ ability to redirect and control the world around him – often with surprising ease. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible passage? Give you a deeper explanation of a specific aspect of this story (like its symbolism)? Answer any questions you have about this verse?

Definition: And they that had eaten were about five thousand men, beside women and children.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Matthew 14:21. It’s a really important story in the Bible! Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: Jesus was walking through a field with his disciples when he stopped to feed a crowd of about five thousand people. They were eating, and as they ate, some of them began to slip into an incredibly strange and unsettling state. What happened next? They started behaving strangely – they started speaking in tongues (a language without anyone's help), they started dancing and singing, and they seemed…disconnected from the world around them. They were clearly very focused on something else than their own lives. The Significance: This is a very unusual event because it shows that Jesus was powerful and could influence people in ways that go beyond our normal understanding. It suggests he had a special ability to draw people into a trance-like state. What does it tell us? It's generally interpreted as a sign that Jesus was testing their faith, showing them the power of his presence, and perhaps preparing them for something important. It’s not necessarily about what they were eating – it’s about how they were behaving. Important Note: The Bible doesn’t go into detail about why they were acting this way. It's a moment of intense focus and connection that is symbolic and meant to be understood in a broader context. --- Do you want me to explain any specific aspect of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like to know: What “tongues” are? What might Jesus have been trying to communicate with them through this experience?

Definition: And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Matthew 14:22. It's a really important scene in the Bible that shows Jesus’ control over a group of people. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: Jesus was walking with his disciples (a small group of followers) near the Sea of Galilee. Suddenly, they started to become restless and wanted to keep going. Jesus, being wise and powerful, decided to take them away from the crowd. What happened next? He set up a boat: Jesus asked the disciples to build a boat to sail across the sea. He instructed them to go before him: This means he told them to head towards the other side of the Sea of Galilee, where there was a large crowd. He sent the crowd away: Jesus didn’t want the crowd to overwhelm him. He wanted to keep things calm and focused on him. What does this mean? This is often interpreted as a sign that Jesus is in a vulnerable position – perhaps he's about to face something difficult or powerful. It suggests: Control: Jesus is taking control of the situation, directing his followers. Protection: He’s protecting himself and his disciples from danger. Preparation for a bigger challenge: This event is often seen as a prelude to a larger test or adventure that Jesus would face later on. Important Note: It's also worth noting that there are different interpretations of this story. Some believe it was about the disciples’ initial reluctance, while others see it as a symbolic representation of Jesus' power and his ability to guide them. Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail? For example, I could: Explain the symbolism behind the boat. Discuss the context of the story within the larger narrative of Matthew 14.

Definition: And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 14:23. It's a really significant moment in Jesus’ life and it speaks about his preparation for a difficult task. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, Jesus was preparing to face a huge crowd – maybe thousands of people – who were growing restless and wanting to follow him. Here’s a breakdown of the key parts: “And when he had sent the multitudes away…” - This refers to Jesus sending his disciples to different places to gather people. He was essentially preparing for a large group to come to him. “…he went up into a mountain apart to pray:” – Jesus, feeling overwhelmed by the crowd and needing some quiet time, decided to go to a secluded place – a mountain. This wasn’t just a quick stop; it was a deliberate move to reflect and prepare for what was coming. “…and when the evening was come, he was there alone.” - This is the crucial part. Jesus stayed on that mountain all night, alone. He needed time to focus and meditate before facing the crowd. What does this verse teach us? It shows a few important things: Jesus’ Dependence on God: He wasn't relying solely on his own strength or abilities. He knew he needed God's help, especially when dealing with large groups of people. His Preparation is Key: Jesus was setting himself up for a challenge – preparing to lead and serve. Humility & Solitude: Spending time alone, reflecting, and praying shows his humility and a deep sense of purpose. It’s often interpreted as a moment of intense spiritual preparation. It's a powerful illustration of Jesus' readiness for a significant role in the world. --- Do you want me to explain any of these points further? For example, would you like me to: Explain the context of this passage in the Bible? Talk about why it’s considered a key moment in Jesus’ ministry?

Definition: But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Matthew 14:24. It’s a really interesting and dramatic scene! Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: Jesus is walking along the sea with his disciples when a huge storm hits. The boat they’re on starts to capsize – it tilts over and rolls back onto its side. What's Happening: The storm is so strong that the waves are tossing the boat around like crazy. It feels chaotic and dangerous! "But the ship was now in the midst of the sea..." This means Jesus is right in the middle of a really big, powerful storm. "...tossed with waves:" The waves are constantly moving and crashing down on the boat. They're not just gently rolling; they’re actively trying to push it around. "...for the wind was contrary." This is the key part! The wind isn’t helping the boat. It’s blowing against it, making it even harder to steer and maintain its position. So, what does this mean? It's a metaphor for a time when Jesus was facing a difficult situation. The storm represents challenges or obstacles in his life – maybe he felt confused, overwhelmed, or unsure of what to do. The wind being contrary means that the forces opposing him weren’t just random; they were actively trying to disrupt his efforts. It's a sign of Jesus' power and strength! Jesus is showing us that He can overcome any challenge, even when things seem impossible. It's a reminder that God is powerful and will always help us through difficult times. In short: Jesus was in the middle of a huge storm, and the wind was actively trying to push him around, highlighting his strength and resilience. --- Do you want me to: Explain any specific part of the story in more detail? Connect this passage to other Bible stories or teachings?

Definition: And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 14:25. It’s a really interesting and dramatic passage! Here's what it means in simple terms: Basically, Jesus is leaving the boat on the Sea of Galilee. Let’s unpack that: “Matthew 14”: This refers to the story of Jesus' first miracle – he walked on water. “And in the fourth watch of the night…” – “The fourth watch” means late at night, usually around sunset. It's a time when it’s quieter and easier to imagine something extraordinary happening. “…Jesus went unto them…” - This is a fancy way of saying "Jesus left." He moved away from the boat. “Walking on the sea”: This is the key part! Jesus wasn't just near the sea; he was walking right across it, as if he were floating on the water. So, what’s happening? The verse tells us that Jesus is demonstrating his power and authority by moving freely across the Sea of Galilee. It’s a powerful image – it suggests he's in control and capable of things beyond normal human limitations. Why is this important? This event is considered one of the most significant in the Gospels because it: Shows Jesus’ Strength: It demonstrates his ability to move through seemingly impossible situations. Introduces a Larger Story: It sets the stage for the rest of the story, where Jesus will be challenging people and testing their faith. In short, it's a vivid picture of Jesus leaving the boat on the sea, showing his power and setting the stage for an incredible journey. --- Would you like me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about what happened before or after this story?

Definition: And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 14:26. It's a really important and slightly unsettling passage in the Bible. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: Jesus is walking on the Sea of Galilee during a big storm. The disciples – his followers – are watching, and they start to feel uneasy because he seems to be moving very strangely. They’re worried that something supernatural is happening. What's Happening: Jesus starts to walk on the water! He’s defying the laws of nature – meaning he's moving in a way that doesn’t seem possible for a boat or ship. The Key Words - "It is a spirit" : This is the crucial part. The disciples immediately understand this isn't just a natural phenomenon (like a strong wind). They realize it's something spiritual – something involving a powerful force, possibly a ghost or demon. They’re interpreting his actions as a sign of fear or an apparition. “They cried out for fear” : Because they felt this presence and recognized it as something otherworldly, they started to cry out in fear. It wasn't just a simple feeling; they were expressing terror because they believed he was somehow dangerous. So, what’s the big takeaway? This verse is a classic example of Jesus demonstrating his power and authority. It shows that He isn't just present – He's actively acting in a way that can be frightening. It also highlights the disciples' initial reaction – they weren't prepared for this, and their fear was a natural response to something beyond their understanding. Why is it important? It’s often seen as a moment when Jesus began to reveal Himself more fully to his followers. It’s a sign that He is not just a man but God himself, actively involved in the world. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the symbolism of this passage? Connect it to a specific story or event from the Bible?

Definition: But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this incredibly important passage from Matthew 14:27. It’s a really significant moment in the story of Jesus and his ministry. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: Jesus was walking with two disciples – Peter and James – when he encountered a dense, thorny patch of bushes. They were trying to avoid getting pricked by the thorns. As they struggled to move forward, Jesus stopped and said, “Be of good cheer; it is I.” What does that mean? It's a message of comfort and reassurance . It’s saying: “I am with you.” – Jesus isn’t just there ; he’s actively present and supportive. "You are not afraid." - He is reassuring them, calming their fears and anxieties. The Significance: This verse is often interpreted as a test of faith . It's the first time Jesus reveals his identity to his disciples. It’s a key moment because it shows: Jesus’ Authority: By speaking these words, Jesus is establishing himself as a powerful figure who can protect and guide them. The Beginning of His Ministry: This encounter sets the stage for Jesus' ministry – he will eventually heal people and lead them on a journey. Essentially, it's a message of hope and security. It’s about knowing that Jesus is with you, even when things are difficult, and that you don’t need to be afraid. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific aspect of the verse in more detail? Relate it to a larger story or theme in the Bible?

Definition: And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 14:28. It’s a really important moment in Jesus’ ministry and speaks to his power over water. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Situation: Peter is walking along the Sea of Galilee, which is a large lake area. He’s facing a huge storm – the waves are crashing violently, and everyone on board the boats is terrified. What Peter Says: He says to Jesus, "Lord, if it be you, bid me come unto thee on the water." What it Means - A Simplified Explanation: "If it be thou..." : This is a way of saying “if it were you …” It’s a plea and a request. Peter is acknowledging that he's asking for Jesus’ help. "...bid me come unto thee on the water." : He’s essentially asking, "Will you help me? Will you allow me to cross the water?" The Significance: This is a HUGE moment because it shows: Jesus' Power: Peter is expressing a deep desire for Jesus to act. He’s recognizing that Jesus has the ability to move water – a powerful force! Trust in Jesus: He’s placing his trust and reliance on Jesus, even when things are incredibly difficult. It wasn’t just about him wanting to cross the water. It was a demonstration of Jesus' power. He was showing everyone that he could control the elements. In essence, this verse highlights Peter’s faith and his desire for Jesus to demonstrate his divine authority. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Give you a little more context about Matthew 14?