King James Version

What Does Matthew 8:23 Mean?

Matthew 8:23 in the King James Version says “And when he was entered into a ship, his disciples followed him. — study this verse from Matthew chapter 8 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

And when he was entered into a ship, his disciples followed him.

Matthew 8:23 · KJV


Context

21

And another of his disciples said unto him, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father.

22

But Jesus said unto him, Follow me; and let the dead bury their dead.

23

And when he was entered into a ship, his disciples followed him.

24

And, behold, there arose a great tempest in the sea, insomuch that the ship was covered with the waves: but he was asleep.

25

And his disciples came to him, and awoke him, saying, Lord, save us: we perish.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The detail that Jesus 'entered into a ship, and his disciples followed him' sets the scene for the storm miracle that follows. The disciples' physical following into the boat parallels their spiritual following as learners. This journey across Galilee becomes a teaching moment about faith and Christ's divine authority over nature. The pattern of Jesus leading and disciples following models the essential posture of discipleship—going where Christ directs, even into storms.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

The Sea of Galilee is susceptible to sudden violent storms when cool air from surrounding mountains collides with warm air over the water. Many of Jesus' disciples were experienced fishermen familiar with these dangers, making their fear in the coming storm (verse 25) more significant.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does the disciples' following Jesus into the boat teach about trusting Christ's leadership even when the destination is uncertain?
  2. How can you cultivate the habit of immediately following where Christ leads rather than calculating risks first?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 11 words
Καὶ1 of 11

And

G2532

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

ἐμβάντι2 of 11

when he was entered

G1684

to walk on, i.e., embark (aboard a vessel), reach (a pool)

αὐτοῦ3 of 11

him

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

εἰς4 of 11

into

G1519

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

τὸ5 of 11
G3588

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

πλοῖον6 of 11

a ship

G4143

a sailer, i.e., vessel

ἠκολούθησαν7 of 11

followed

G190

properly, to be in the same way with, i.e., to accompany (specially, as a disciple)

αὐτοῦ8 of 11

him

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

οἱ9 of 11
G3588

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

μαθηταὶ10 of 11

disciples

G3101

a learner, i.e., pupil

αὐτοῦ11 of 11

him

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 8:23 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 8:23 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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