King James Version

What Does Matthew 9:1 Mean?

“And he entered into a ship, and passed over, and came into his own city.”

Context

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

And, behold, they brought to him a man sick of the palsy, lying on a bed: and Jesus seeing their faith said unto the sick of the palsy; Son, be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee.

And, behold, certain of the scribes said within themselves, This man blasphemeth.

Read full chapter →

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

IX. (1) Here, again, the order of the facts narrated varies so much in the three Gospels that the labours of the harmonist are baffled. **ST. MATTHEW.** **ST. MARK.** **ST. LUKE.** (1.) The Paralytic, Matthew 9:1-8. Mark 2:1-12. Luke 5:18-26. (2.) The call of Matthew, &c., Matthew 9:9-17. Mark 2:13-22. Luke 5:27-39. (3.) Jairus, and the woman with an issue of blood, Matthew 9:18-26. Mark 5:21-43. Luke 8:41-56. (4.) The two blind, Matthew 9:27-31. — — (5.) The dumb, Matthew 9:32-34. — Luke 11:14. It will be seen that (1) and (2) are grouped together in all three, as are the two events in (3), but beyond this we cannot trace any systematic order, and the apparent notes of sequence are so far misleading. In this case. St. Matthew makes the return to Capernaum follow the healing of the Gadarene demoniacs. St. Mark and St. Luke place it after that of the leper, but as if they were uncertain as to its exact position, “after certain days,” or “on one of the days.” It will be seen that (1) and (2) are grouped together in all threeIt will be seen that (1) and (2) are grouped together in all three, as are the two events in (3), but beyond this we cannot trace any systematic order, and the apparent notes of sequence are so far misleading. In this case. St. Matthew makes the return to Capernaum follow the healing of the Gadarene demoniacs. St. Mark and St. Luke place it after that of the leper, but as if they were uncertain as to its exact position, “after certain days,” or “on one of the days.” **Ship.**—Better, *boat.* **Into his own city.**—St. Mark states definitely Capernaum, which had become His “own city” since His departure from Nazareth (Matthew 4:13). That city, though the home of His childhood, is never so described.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

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 9:1 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.