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

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Matthew 9:1! It’s a really beautiful and symbolic image. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, Jesus is showing us that He is God’s Son and He has the power to overcome anything. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “He entered into a ship…” – This isn’t about sailing on a real ship. It represents Jesus entering into our lives. “…and passed over, and came into his own city.” – This is the key part! "Passed over" means He moved over us, not through us. “His own city” refers to His home, which is Heaven (or God’s Kingdom). So, what does it all mean? It's a powerful metaphor that shows: Jesus loves us: He's moving into our lives, showing us He wants to be with us. He's powerful: He can overcome challenges and difficulties that we face. He’s in control: He’s choosing to come into our world – a symbol of our lives – and working for good. It's a message of hope and reassurance. It reminds us that Jesus is not just near us, but actively within us and controlling our lives in a positive way. In short, it’s a sign of His divine power to heal, comfort, and guide us. Do you want me to explain any part of this verse further? Perhaps you'd like to know: What the context of this verse is within the larger story of Jesus’ ministry? How this image relates to other biblical stories?

Definition: And it came to pass, as Jesus sat at meat in the house, behold, many publicans and sinners came and sat down with him and his disciples.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Matthew 9:10. It's a really important scene that shows Jesus’ power and approach to people who weren't following Him perfectly. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, Jesus was having a meal with a group of people who were probably being mocked or treated unfairly. Let’s unpack it a little more: “Matthew 9:10” : This is the exact verse we're focusing on. It tells us where this happened – Jesus was sitting at a table while he was with his followers. “And it came to pass…” : This is just a way of saying "it happened." It’s like an observation about what was happening. “…as Jesus sat at meat” : This is the key part! “Meat” refers to bread and wine, which were often offered as gifts to God in Jewish tradition. So, Jesus was celebrating a meal – it wasn’t just a normal lunch. “behold, many publicans and sinners came…” : This means people were showing up who weren't following the rules of God or society. "Publicans" and "sinners" are basically those who were considered outcasts or morally wrong – people who weren’t doing what was right. “…sat down with him and his disciples.” : Jesus invited these people to join him. He wasn't rejecting them; he was offering them a chance to connect with Him, to be part of something bigger than themselves. What does this verse tell us about Jesus? It tells us that: Jesus is compassionate: He’s inviting people who are struggling and not following the rules. He’s approachable: He’s making Himself available to them, showing them there's a way for them to connect with Him. He’s offering forgiveness: By being with these people, Jesus is signaling that He offers forgiveness and a path to salvation – a chance to be reconciled with God. In essence, this verse shows that Jesus wasn’t just teaching or preaching; He was actively inviting people into His presence. Do you want me to explain any of these parts in more detail? Or would you like to explore another part of the Matthew 9 passage?

Definition: And when the Pharisees saw [it], they said unto his disciples, Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this Bible passage together. It’s a really important question from Jesus’ time, and it’s about something that can be a little tricky to understand at first. Here’s the explanation: Basically, it's asking why Jesus is spending time with people who aren’t Jewish – people who are considered "sinners" or "publicans." Let’s unpack it word by word: “Matthew 9:11” : This refers to a specific event in Matthew’s Gospel (a book about Jesus). It's a conversation that happens after Jesus has performed a miracle – he heals someone. “And when the Pharisees saw [it]” : The Pharisees are a group of Jewish leaders who were very strict about following the law and rules. They believed it was important to be perfect in their obedience. "Saw it" means they noticed something unusual or out of place. “they said unto his disciples, Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners?” : This is the key part! The Pharisees are asking Jesus why he’s spending time with these people. They're puzzled – why would a master (someone who respects their father/mother) be eating with them? What does it mean ? Jesus is saying that he’s not just being friendly; he’s deliberately choosing to spend time with people who aren't part of the Jewish community. This was a very unusual thing for Jesus, at this point in his ministry. It suggests: He wants to teach them a deeper truth. Maybe he’s trying to show them something important about God or about being a good person. He's testing their faith. It might be a way for Jesus to see how they react to him and whether they are willing to follow his teachings. Important Note: The Pharisees weren't necessarily evil . They were very concerned with following the rules of the law, and sometimes this caused them to judge people harshly. So, this situation is a bit complex – it’s not about Jesus being disrespectful; it’s about him deliberately choosing to be in a particular setting. In short: The Pharisees are questioning why Jesus is spending time with these non-Jewish people, suggesting he's doing something unusual and perhaps teaching them a deeper lesson. --- Do you want me to: Explain this passage further? Give you an analogy to help you understand it better?

Definition: But when Jesus heard [that], he said unto them, They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 9:12. It’s a really important message about God's love and how to help people. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, Jesus is saying that when someone is struggling with illness or pain – whether physical or emotional – they don’t need a doctor’s treatment. Let’s unpack it a little further: “But when Jesus heard…” - This tells us Jesus noticed something was wrong. He was aware of someone's suffering. “…he said unto them…” - Jesus is speaking to his followers, or to people who are listening. “…They that be whole need not a physician…” – This means those who are healthy and well-off don’t need medical help like a doctor. They're already okay! It’s about being in a good place. "...but they that are sick” - This is the key part. Those who are suffering, experiencing pain, or struggling with their health – those who are sick – don’t need a medical fix. The core message is about God's love and compassion. It emphasizes: God cares for everyone: He doesn't just focus on the sick; he also cares for those who are healthy. Healing comes from God: Jesus is offering a way to be healed – through faith in Him, not through medical treatment. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most important thing we can do is offer comfort, support, and encouragement to someone who is struggling. --- Do you want me to explain any of this further? For example, would you like to know: Why this verse is significant in the Bible? What does it mean in a broader context (like how it relates to Jesus’ teachings)?

Definition: But go ye and learn what [that] meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Matthew 9:13. It’s a really important one about God’s forgiveness and understanding. Here’s a simple explanation: Basically, it means: “Don’t just focus on being perfect or righteous; let me see you struggling and needing to change your heart.” Let's unpack that a little further: “But go ye and learn what [that] meaneth…” – This is Jesus saying, "I want you to understand this meaning." He’s inviting us to think deeply about the message. “…I will have mercy, and not sacrifice…” – This is the core of the verse. “Mercy” means God's loving kindness and forgiveness. "Not sacrifice" refers to a sacrifice – something that must happen for God to be pleased. “For I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” – This is the crucial part. Jesus isn’t trying to reward those who are already good. He’s interested in people who need to change their hearts and turn away from sin. "Sinners to repentance" means people who are struggling with wrongdoings and are ready to admit they need to start over – to turn back towards God. So, what's the message? Jesus is saying that forgiveness isn’t about judging people based on how perfect they are. It’s about offering a chance for anyone who is truly sorry and wants to change, even if they’re not fully good yet. He’s inviting us to seek God's mercy – his loving kindness – for those who need it most. In short, it’s a message of grace and opportunity for redemption. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about this passage in the Bible?

Definition: Then came to him the disciples of John, saying, Why do we and the Pharisees fast oft, but thy disciples fast not?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 9:14. It’s a really interesting question posed to Jesus! Here's what it means in simple terms: The Core of the Conversation: Jesus is noticing that two groups – John’s followers and the Pharisees – are spending a lot of time fasting (taking a break from their daily routine) but not fasting as diligently. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Then came to him the disciples of John…” – This refers to two men named John, who were very close to Jesus and followers of his teachings. “…saying, Why do we and the Pharisees fast oft, but thy disciples fast not?” – This is the question. They’re asking why these two groups are so different in their approach to fasting. What's the Significance? This verse highlights a crucial difference between Jesus’ teachings and the practices of the Pharisees and John’s followers. Here's what it suggests: Jesus was teaching about deep repentance: He was emphasizing that true fasting wasn't just about taking a break; it was about a deep, sincere change of heart – acknowledging your mistakes, turning away from sin, and seeking God's forgiveness. The Pharisees were focused on ritualistic practices: They were very concerned with strict rules and ceremonies (fasting) to show their piety. Jesus was suggesting that genuine repentance and a changed life are more important than any set of rules. In essence, Jesus is saying, “You need to be more serious about your faith than these two groups.” It's a powerful reminder: True spiritual growth comes from a deep inward transformation – not just outward observance of rules. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the context of this passage?

Definition: And Jesus said unto them, Can the children of the bridechamber mourn, as long as the bridegroom is with them? but the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken from them, and then shall they fast.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Matthew 9:15. It’s a really interesting and symbolic verse about Jesus’s plan for the future. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: Jesus is telling his followers (the “bridechamber” – which is a metaphor for believers) that they shouldn’t be worried about feeling sad or mournful when He leaves them. He’s saying that eventually , things will change, and there will come a time when He won't be present with them anymore. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And Jesus said unto them…” : This is Jesus speaking directly to his followers. “…Can the children of the bridechamber mourn, as long as the bridegroom is with them?” : This is the key question. “Bridechamber” refers to believers in Christ’s church – people who are part of His family and are chosen by God. The phrase "mourn" means to feel sorrow or pain. So, Jesus is asking if they should be sad or worried when He leaves. “but the days will come…” : This is a crucial point. It’s saying that this change – this eventual separation – isn't happening right now . It's a future event. “…when the bridegroom shall be taken from them, and then shall they fast.” : This is where it gets really symbolic. When Jesus leaves, He won't be physically present with them anymore. But… he’ll leave behind something more profound: a period of fasting . This “fasting” represents a spiritual discipline – a time of turning away from the world and focusing on God. So, what does this mean practically? Jesus is telling his followers to be prepared for a future where He's not there to guide and support them. It’s about a transition, a change in His presence, and a period of introspection and focus. It’s like saying, "We need to grow closer to God and prepare ourselves spiritually before He goes away." In short, it’s a message about the future – that Jesus will eventually leave us, but we should be ready for that departure with a deep spiritual focus. Important Note: This is a very symbolic passage. It's not meant to be taken literally as a prophecy of a physical departure. It speaks to the spiritual journey of believers. --- Would you like me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the symbolism in more detail?

Definition: No man putteth a piece of new cloth unto an old garment, for that which is put in to fill it up taketh from the garment, and the rent is made worse.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this Bible verse! It’s a really important idea about repairing and preserving things. Here's what it means in simple terms: The core message is this: It’s better to focus on making something better than trying to fix or replace it completely. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “No man putteth a piece of new cloth unto an old garment…” – This means we shouldn't try to change something that already exists. We can’t just add more to a worn-out thing. "...for that which is put in to fill it up taketh from the garment, and the rent is made worse.” - This is where the real wisdom comes in. When we try too hard to fix or improve something, we actually damage it. The effort we put into fixing it makes it worse – it takes away from its original quality and value. “Rent” refers to wear and tear. In short: Don’t overwork things. Focus on making them better instead of constantly trying to fix the problems that already exist. Why is this a good principle? It encourages us to be patient, gentle, and thoughtful in our actions. It's about valuing what we have and appreciating its original state before attempting changes. --- Would you like me to: Explain another verse? Give you an example of how this principle applies in a real-life situation?

Definition: Neither do men put new wine into old bottles: else the bottles break, and the wine runneth out, and the bottles perish: but they put new wine into new bottles, and both are preserved.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this Bible verse together! It’s a really important one about transformation and healing. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that sometimes, things don’t work when they’re trying to be the same way again. It's like when you put new sugar into an old bottle of water – it doesn’t mix well and can cause problems. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Neither do men put new wine into old bottles” : This refers to situations where people are trying to fix something that's already broken or outdated. It’s like trying to repair a car with rusted parts – it’s going to be difficult and the result might not be good. “…else the bottles break, and the wine runneth out, and the bottles perish” : This is the scary part! If we don't do something new , different , or better , things can fall apart. The bottles (representing a person, relationship, or situation) will break down because they’re not compatible anymore. The wine (representing hope, healing, or potential) will run out – it won’t flow as easily. And finally, the bottles will be destroyed – that means everything is lost. “But they put new wine into new bottles, and both are preserved” : This is the good part! When we introduce something new , like fresh ideas, a different approach, or a new perspective, it can actually make things better. It’s like replacing the old bottle with a brand new one – it’s stronger, more effective, and allows everything to flow better. And because it's new and different , it remains intact and continues to work well. In a nutshell: It’s about change and renewal. We need to introduce something fresh and appropriate to fix things, or else things will fall apart. What does this mean in practice? This verse is often used when someone is struggling with a difficult situation – maybe they're feeling stuck, discouraged, or hopeless. It encourages us to: Don’t stay in situations that are hindering your progress. Be open to new possibilities and approaches. Change things for the better! Do you want me to: Explain it further with a specific example? Discuss what this verse might be saying about overcoming challenges?

Definition: While he spake these things unto them, behold, there came a certain ruler, and worshipped him, saying, My daughter is even now dead: but come and lay thy hand upon her, and she shall live.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 9:18. It’s a really significant moment in Jesus’ ministry! Here's what it means, explained simply: The Situation: Jesus is healing a man who has been paralyzed by his leg for a long time. This man is clearly very distressed and upset. What the Ruler Says: The ruler, a powerful and important figure (likely a religious leader), says to Jesus, "My daughter is even now dead: but come and lay thy hand upon her, and she shall live." What it Means – A Deeper Look: “My daughter” : This refers to Mary, the mother of Jesus. “Even now dead” : This is a crucial point. The ruler believes his daughter is already gone. It’s a heartbreaking statement filled with grief and desperation. “Come and lay thy hand upon her” : This is the key part. Jesus, knowing he’s healing this man, decides to take action – to touch him and bring him back to life. The Significance - It's About Resurrection & Healing: This verse is a powerful illustration of Jesus’ ability to: Undo Death: It shows that Jesus has the power to conquer death and restore someone who is on the brink. Transform Lives: It highlights that his healing isn't just about fixing a physical problem; it’s about transforming a person’s spirit and giving them new life. In essence, this verse tells us that Jesus can bring people back from the brink of death through his power. Important Note: It’s important to remember that this is a story rooted in ancient Jewish tradition, and the details are somewhat symbolic. It's a demonstration of Jesus' divine power and ability to perform miracles. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse further? For example, would you like me to: Discuss the context of this passage within the larger story of Jesus’ ministry? Explain its symbolic meaning in more detail?