King James Version

What Does Matthew 12:9 Mean?

Matthew 12:9 in the King James Version says “And when he was departed thence, he went into their synagogue:” — study this verse from Matthew chapter 12 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“And when he was departed thence, he went into their synagogue:”

Matthew 12:9 · KJV

Context

7

But if ye had known what this meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless.

8

For the Son of man is Lord even of the sabbath day.

9

And when he was departed thence, he went into their synagogue:

10

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.

11

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?

Read Matthew 12 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
'And when he was departed thence, he went into their synagogue.' Following the sabbath controversy with Pharisees (v.1-8), Jesus deliberately went 'into their synagogue'—notably called 'their' (αὐτῶν/autōn), suggesting distance or even hostility. Synagogues were local worship and teaching centers throughout Israel. Jesus regularly taught in synagogues during His ministry (Matthew 4:23, Luke 4:16), but opposition was mounting. By entering 'their' synagogue after the sabbath dispute, Jesus demonstrates courage—He doesn't retreat from confrontation but advances. What follows (v.10-14) escalates conflict: Jesus heals on the sabbath, Pharisees plot to kill Him. Reformed theology sees Jesus's determination to minister despite opposition as model for faithful witness: truth must be proclaimed regardless of cost. Jesus's intentional presence in hostile territory demonstrates that the gospel advances through bold proclamation, not tactical retreat. Churches throughout history have faced this choice: soft-pedal truth to avoid offense, or faithfully proclaim despite opposition.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Synagogues (συναγωγή/synagōgē, 'gathering together') emerged during Babylonian exile when Jews lacked temple access. By Jesus's time, every Jewish community had synagogues for weekly sabbath teaching, prayer, Scripture reading. They were led by elders and scribes, with services including recitation of Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4-9), prayers, prophetic readings, and exposition. Any qualified Jewish man could be invited to teach. Jesus utilized this platform extensively early in His ministry. But as opposition mounted, synagogues became increasingly hostile. The phrase 'their synagogue' reflects this growing separation between Jesus's movement and institutional Judaism. By the time Matthew wrote (probably 60s-80s AD), synagogue expulsion of Christians was underway (John 9:22, 12:42, 16:2). Early church initially tried to remain within Judaism but was gradually expelled, forming separate assemblies (ἐκκλησίαι/ekklēsiai, 'churches'). This painful separation clarified Christianity's distinct identity.

Reflection Questions

  1. How do you respond when faithful gospel ministry provokes opposition from religious institutions or communities?
  2. What does Jesus's example of advancing despite hostility teach about boldness versus compromise?
  3. When should Christians remain in hostile religious contexts, and when should they separate to form faithful alternative communities?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 8 words
Καὶ1 of 8

“And”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

μεταβὰς2 of 8

“when he was departed”

G3327

to change place

ἐκεῖθεν3 of 8

“thence”

G1564

thence

ἦλθεν4 of 8

“he went”

G2064

to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

εἰς5 of 8

“into”

G1519

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

τὴν6 of 8
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

συναγωγὴν7 of 8

“synagogue”

G4864

an assemblage of persons; specially, a jewish "synagogue" (the meeting or the place); by analogy, a christian church

αὐτῶν·8 of 8

“their”

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Matthew 12:9 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Matthew 12:9 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Luke 6:6-11Mark 3:1-6

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