Matthew chapter 14 chronicles the heading of John the Baptist, Jesus feeding the five thousand, and His appearance to the disciples by walking on water.
Summary of Matthew 14
Matthew 14 opens with Herod the tetrarch mistaking Jesus for John the Baptist risen from the dead. We then learn of John’s imprisonment for criticizing Herod’s marriage. On Herod’s birthday, He made an oath to give the daughter of Herodias anything she wanted. Prompted by her mother, she said, “Give me here on a platter the head of John the Baptist.”
John is beheaded in prison. His disciples came and took his body and buried it. Then they went and told Jesus. Upon hearing of John’s fate, Jesus withdraws to a solitary place.
Despite Jesus’ attempt at seclusion, the crowds follow Him. Filled with compassion, Jesus heals the sick among them. As evening approaches, the disciples urge Jesus to dismiss the hungry crowd. Jesus, however, demonstrates His divine power by miraculously feeding the crowd of five thousand with just five loaves and two fish.
Later that night, while the disciples struggle against strong winds at sea, Jesus walks on water towards them, calming their fear and demonstrating His mastery over nature. Thinking it may be a ghost, Peter says to Jesus, “Lord, if it’s you, tell me to come to you on the water.” Jesus replies, “Come.” Peter gets out of the boat, walks on the water, starts to sink, and Jesus saves him. Those who were in the boat worshiped Jesus, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”
Matthew 14 Themes
- Following Jesus: The chapter highlights the large crowds drawn to Jesus’ teachings and healings.
- Jesus’ Power: The feeding of the five thousand and Jesus walking on water both demonstrate Jesus’ miraculous power.
- Compassion: Jesus’ compassion for the crowds is evident in His teachings, healings, and the miraculous provision of food.
- Faith: The disciples’ fear is contrasted with Jesus’ call for faith in Him, even during moments of difficulty.
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