1 And it came to pass, that, as the people pressed upon him to hear the word of God, he stood by the lake of Gennesaret,

2 And saw two ships standing by the lake: but the fishermen were gone out of them, and were washing their nets.

3 And he entered into one of the ships, which was Simon's, and prayed him that he would thrust out a little from the land. And he sat down, and taught the people out of the ship.

4 Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught.

5 And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net.

6 And when they had this done, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes: and their net brake.

7 And they beckoned unto their partners, which were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink.

8 When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord.

9 For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the draught of the fishes which they had taken:

10 And so was also James, and John, the sons of Zebedee, which were partners with Simon. And Jesus said unto Simon, Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men.

11 And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all, and followed him.

12 And it came to pass, when he was in a certain city, behold a man full of leprosy: who seeing Jesus fell on his face, and besought him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean.

13 And he put forth his hand, and touched him, saying, I will: be thou clean. And immediately the leprosy departed from him.

14 And he charged him to tell no man: but go, and shew thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing, according as Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.

15 But so much the more went there a fame abroad of him: and great multitudes came together to hear, and to be healed by him of their infirmities.

16 And he withdrew himself into the wilderness, and prayed.

17 And it came to pass on a certain day, as he was teaching, that there were Pharisees and doctors of the law sitting by, which were come out of every town of Galilee, and Judaea, and Jerusalem: and the power of the Lord was present to heal them.

18 And, behold, men brought in a bed a man which was taken with a palsy: and they sought means to bring him in, and to lay him before him.

19 And when they could not find by what way they might bring him in because of the multitude, they went upon the housetop, and let him down through the tiling with his couch into the midst before Jesus.

20 And when he saw their faith, he said unto him, Man, thy sins are forgiven thee.

21 And the scribes and the Pharisees began to reason, saying, Who is this which speaketh blasphemies? Who can forgive sins, but God alone?

22 But when Jesus perceived their thoughts, he answering said unto them, What reason ye in your hearts?

23 Whether is easier, to say, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Rise up and walk?

24 But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power upon earth to forgive sins, (he said unto the sick of the palsy,) I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy couch, and go into thine house.

25 And immediately he rose up before them, and took up that whereon he lay, and departed to his own house, glorifying God.

26 And they were all amazed, and they glorified God, and were filled with fear, saying, We have seen strange things to day.

27 And after these things he went forth, and saw a publican, named Levi, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he said unto him, Follow me.

28 And he left all, rose up, and followed him.

29 And Levi made him a great feast in his own house: and there was a great company of publicans and of others that sat down with them.

30 But their scribes and Pharisees murmured against his disciples, saying, Why do ye eat and drink with publicans and sinners?

31 And Jesus answering said unto them, They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick.

32 I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.

33 And they said unto him, Why do the disciples of John fast often, and make prayers, and likewise the disciples of the Pharisees; but thine eat and drink?

34 And he said unto them, Can ye make the children of the bridechamber fast, while the bridegroom is with them?

35 But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then shall they fast in those days.

36 And he spake also a parable unto them; No man putteth a piece of a new garment upon an old; if otherwise, then both the new maketh a rent, and the piece that was taken out of the new agreeth not with the old.

37 And no man putteth new wine into old bottles; else the new wine will burst the bottles, and be spilled, and the bottles shall perish.

38 But new wine must be put into new bottles; and both are preserved.

39 No man also having drunk old wine straightway desireth new: for he saith, The old is better.

Commentary

Verse 1

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The miraculous draught of fishes, Peter, James, and John called.
When Christ had done preaching, he told Peter to apply to the business of his calling. Time spent on week days in public exercises of religion, need be but little hinderance in time, and may be great furtherance to us in temper of mind, as to our worldly business. With what cheerfulness may we go about the duties of our calling, when we have been with God, and thus have our worldly employments sanctified to us by the word and prayer! Though they had taken nothing, yet Christ told them to let down their nets again. We must not abruptly quit our callings because we have not the success in them we desire. We are likely to speed well, when we follow the guidance of Christ's word. The draught of fishes was by a miracle. We must all, like Peter, own ourselves to be sinful men, therefore Jesus Christ might justly depart from us. But we must beseech him that he would not depart; for woe unto us if the Saviour depart from sinners! Rather let us entreat him to come and dwell in our hearts by faith, that he may transform and cleanse them. These fishermen forsook all, and followed Jesus, when their calling prospered. When riches increase, and we are tempted to set our hearts upon them, then to quit them for Christ is thankworthy.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
(Matthew 4:18) ; (Mark 1:16) .
McArther Bible Commentary
Lake of Gennesaret. I.e., the Sea of Galilee, sometimes also called the Sea of Tiberius (Joh 6:1; Joh 21:1). It is actually a large, freshwater lake, over 690 feet below sea level, and serves as the main source of water and commerce for the Galilee region.
Bible Cross References
Numbers 34:11 Deuteronomy 3:17 Joshua 12:3 Joshua 13:27 Matthew 4:18 Matthew 14:34 Mark 1:16 Mark 3:9 Mark 4:1 Luke 5:2 Luke 8:22 Luke 8:23 Luke 8:33 John 1:40 John 6:1 Hebrews 13:7

Verse 2

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The miraculous draught of fishes, Peter, James, and John called.
When Christ had done preaching, he told Peter to apply to the business of his calling. Time spent on week days in public exercises of religion, need be but little hinderance in time, and may be great furtherance to us in temper of mind, as to our worldly business. With what cheerfulness may we go about the duties of our calling, when we have been with God, and thus have our worldly employments sanctified to us by the word and prayer! Though they had taken nothing, yet Christ told them to let down their nets again. We must not abruptly quit our callings because we have not the success in them we desire. We are likely to speed well, when we follow the guidance of Christ's word. The draught of fishes was by a miracle. We must all, like Peter, own ourselves to be sinful men, therefore Jesus Christ might justly depart from us. But we must beseech him that he would not depart; for woe unto us if the Saviour depart from sinners! Rather let us entreat him to come and dwell in our hearts by faith, that he may transform and cleanse them. These fishermen forsook all, and followed Jesus, when their calling prospered. When riches increase, and we are tempted to set our hearts upon them, then to quit them for Christ is thankworthy.
McArther Bible Commentary
washing their nets. Having fished all night with nothing to show for their labor (cf. Luk 5:5), they were drying and mending their nets for another night's work.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 4:18 Mark 1:16 Luke 5:1 Luke 5:3 John 1:40

Verse 3

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The miraculous draught of fishes, Peter, James, and John called.
When Christ had done preaching, he told Peter to apply to the business of his calling. Time spent on week days in public exercises of religion, need be but little hinderance in time, and may be great furtherance to us in temper of mind, as to our worldly business. With what cheerfulness may we go about the duties of our calling, when we have been with God, and thus have our worldly employments sanctified to us by the word and prayer! Though they had taken nothing, yet Christ told them to let down their nets again. We must not abruptly quit our callings because we have not the success in them we desire. We are likely to speed well, when we follow the guidance of Christ's word. The draught of fishes was by a miracle. We must all, like Peter, own ourselves to be sinful men, therefore Jesus Christ might justly depart from us. But we must beseech him that he would not depart; for woe unto us if the Saviour depart from sinners! Rather let us entreat him to come and dwell in our hearts by faith, that he may transform and cleanse them. These fishermen forsook all, and followed Jesus, when their calling prospered. When riches increase, and we are tempted to set our hearts upon them, then to quit them for Christ is thankworthy.
McArther Bible Commentary
He sat. See notes on Luk 4:20; Mat 5:1.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 13:2 Mark 3:9 Mark 3:10 Mark 4:1 Luke 5:2

Verse 4

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The miraculous draught of fishes, Peter, James, and John called.
When Christ had done preaching, he told Peter to apply to the business of his calling. Time spent on week days in public exercises of religion, need be but little hinderance in time, and may be great furtherance to us in temper of mind, as to our worldly business. With what cheerfulness may we go about the duties of our calling, when we have been with God, and thus have our worldly employments sanctified to us by the word and prayer! Though they had taken nothing, yet Christ told them to let down their nets again. We must not abruptly quit our callings because we have not the success in them we desire. We are likely to speed well, when we follow the guidance of Christ's word. The draught of fishes was by a miracle. We must all, like Peter, own ourselves to be sinful men, therefore Jesus Christ might justly depart from us. But we must beseech him that he would not depart; for woe unto us if the Saviour depart from sinners! Rather let us entreat him to come and dwell in our hearts by faith, that he may transform and cleanse them. These fishermen forsook all, and followed Jesus, when their calling prospered. When riches increase, and we are tempted to set our hearts upon them, then to quit them for Christ is thankworthy.
McArther Bible Commentary
let down your nets. Normally, the fish that were netted in shallow water at night would migrate during the daylight hours to waters too deep to reach easily with nets, which is why Peter fished at night. Peter, no doubt, thought Jesus' directive made no sense, but he obeyed anyway, and was rewarded for his obedience. (Luk 5:6).
Bible Cross References
John 21:6 Luke 5:5

Verse 5

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The miraculous draught of fishes, Peter, James, and John called.
When Christ had done preaching, he told Peter to apply to the business of his calling. Time spent on week days in public exercises of religion, need be but little hinderance in time, and may be great furtherance to us in temper of mind, as to our worldly business. With what cheerfulness may we go about the duties of our calling, when we have been with God, and thus have our worldly employments sanctified to us by the word and prayer! Though they had taken nothing, yet Christ told them to let down their nets again. We must not abruptly quit our callings because we have not the success in them we desire. We are likely to speed well, when we follow the guidance of Christ's word. The draught of fishes was by a miracle. We must all, like Peter, own ourselves to be sinful men, therefore Jesus Christ might justly depart from us. But we must beseech him that he would not depart; for woe unto us if the Saviour depart from sinners! Rather let us entreat him to come and dwell in our hearts by faith, that he may transform and cleanse them. These fishermen forsook all, and followed Jesus, when their calling prospered. When riches increase, and we are tempted to set our hearts upon them, then to quit them for Christ is thankworthy.
Bible Cross References
Ezekiel 47:10 Luke 8:24 Luke 8:45 Luke 9:33 Luke 9:49 Luke 17:13 John 21:3

Verse 6

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The miraculous draught of fishes, Peter, James, and John called.
When Christ had done preaching, he told Peter to apply to the business of his calling. Time spent on week days in public exercises of religion, need be but little hinderance in time, and may be great furtherance to us in temper of mind, as to our worldly business. With what cheerfulness may we go about the duties of our calling, when we have been with God, and thus have our worldly employments sanctified to us by the word and prayer! Though they had taken nothing, yet Christ told them to let down their nets again. We must not abruptly quit our callings because we have not the success in them we desire. We are likely to speed well, when we follow the guidance of Christ's word. The draught of fishes was by a miracle. We must all, like Peter, own ourselves to be sinful men, therefore Jesus Christ might justly depart from us. But we must beseech him that he would not depart; for woe unto us if the Saviour depart from sinners! Rather let us entreat him to come and dwell in our hearts by faith, that he may transform and cleanse them. These fishermen forsook all, and followed Jesus, when their calling prospered. When riches increase, and we are tempted to set our hearts upon them, then to quit them for Christ is thankworthy.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Their net brake - Began to tear.
Bible Cross References
Luke 5:7 John 21:6

Verse 7

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The miraculous draught of fishes, Peter, James, and John called.
When Christ had done preaching, he told Peter to apply to the business of his calling. Time spent on week days in public exercises of religion, need be but little hinderance in time, and may be great furtherance to us in temper of mind, as to our worldly business. With what cheerfulness may we go about the duties of our calling, when we have been with God, and thus have our worldly employments sanctified to us by the word and prayer! Though they had taken nothing, yet Christ told them to let down their nets again. We must not abruptly quit our callings because we have not the success in them we desire. We are likely to speed well, when we follow the guidance of Christ's word. The draught of fishes was by a miracle. We must all, like Peter, own ourselves to be sinful men, therefore Jesus Christ might justly depart from us. But we must beseech him that he would not depart; for woe unto us if the Saviour depart from sinners! Rather let us entreat him to come and dwell in our hearts by faith, that he may transform and cleanse them. These fishermen forsook all, and followed Jesus, when their calling prospered. When riches increase, and we are tempted to set our hearts upon them, then to quit them for Christ is thankworthy.
Bible Cross References
Mark 4:36 Luke 5:6 Luke 5:8

Verse 8

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The miraculous draught of fishes, Peter, James, and John called.
When Christ had done preaching, he told Peter to apply to the business of his calling. Time spent on week days in public exercises of religion, need be but little hinderance in time, and may be great furtherance to us in temper of mind, as to our worldly business. With what cheerfulness may we go about the duties of our calling, when we have been with God, and thus have our worldly employments sanctified to us by the word and prayer! Though they had taken nothing, yet Christ told them to let down their nets again. We must not abruptly quit our callings because we have not the success in them we desire. We are likely to speed well, when we follow the guidance of Christ's word. The draught of fishes was by a miracle. We must all, like Peter, own ourselves to be sinful men, therefore Jesus Christ might justly depart from us. But we must beseech him that he would not depart; for woe unto us if the Saviour depart from sinners! Rather let us entreat him to come and dwell in our hearts by faith, that he may transform and cleanse them. These fishermen forsook all, and followed Jesus, when their calling prospered. When riches increase, and we are tempted to set our hearts upon them, then to quit them for Christ is thankworthy.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Depart from me, for I am a sinful man - And therefore not worthy to be in thy presence.
McArther Bible Commentary
Depart from me. The remarkable catch of fish was clearly a miracle, astonishing to all the fishermen in Capernaum (Luk 5:9). Peter immediately realized he was in the presence of the Holy One exercising His divine power, and he was stricken with shame over his own sin. Cf. Exo 20:19; Exo 33:20; Jdg 13:22; Job 42:5-6. See note on Isa 6:5.
Bible Cross References
2 Samuel 6:9 Isaiah 6:5 Luke 5:7 Luke 5:9

Verse 9

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The miraculous draught of fishes, Peter, James, and John called.
When Christ had done preaching, he told Peter to apply to the business of his calling. Time spent on week days in public exercises of religion, need be but little hinderance in time, and may be great furtherance to us in temper of mind, as to our worldly business. With what cheerfulness may we go about the duties of our calling, when we have been with God, and thus have our worldly employments sanctified to us by the word and prayer! Though they had taken nothing, yet Christ told them to let down their nets again. We must not abruptly quit our callings because we have not the success in them we desire. We are likely to speed well, when we follow the guidance of Christ's word. The draught of fishes was by a miracle. We must all, like Peter, own ourselves to be sinful men, therefore Jesus Christ might justly depart from us. But we must beseech him that he would not depart; for woe unto us if the Saviour depart from sinners! Rather let us entreat him to come and dwell in our hearts by faith, that he may transform and cleanse them. These fishermen forsook all, and followed Jesus, when their calling prospered. When riches increase, and we are tempted to set our hearts upon them, then to quit them for Christ is thankworthy.
Bible Cross References
Luke 5:8 Luke 5:10

Verse 10

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The miraculous draught of fishes, Peter, James, and John called.
When Christ had done preaching, he told Peter to apply to the business of his calling. Time spent on week days in public exercises of religion, need be but little hinderance in time, and may be great furtherance to us in temper of mind, as to our worldly business. With what cheerfulness may we go about the duties of our calling, when we have been with God, and thus have our worldly employments sanctified to us by the word and prayer! Though they had taken nothing, yet Christ told them to let down their nets again. We must not abruptly quit our callings because we have not the success in them we desire. We are likely to speed well, when we follow the guidance of Christ's word. The draught of fishes was by a miracle. We must all, like Peter, own ourselves to be sinful men, therefore Jesus Christ might justly depart from us. But we must beseech him that he would not depart; for woe unto us if the Saviour depart from sinners! Rather let us entreat him to come and dwell in our hearts by faith, that he may transform and cleanse them. These fishermen forsook all, and followed Jesus, when their calling prospered. When riches increase, and we are tempted to set our hearts upon them, then to quit them for Christ is thankworthy.
Bible Cross References
Ezekiel 47:10 Matthew 14:27 Luke 5:9 John 21:2 2 Timothy 2:26

Verse 11

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The miraculous draught of fishes, Peter, James, and John called.
When Christ had done preaching, he told Peter to apply to the business of his calling. Time spent on week days in public exercises of religion, need be but little hinderance in time, and may be great furtherance to us in temper of mind, as to our worldly business. With what cheerfulness may we go about the duties of our calling, when we have been with God, and thus have our worldly employments sanctified to us by the word and prayer! Though they had taken nothing, yet Christ told them to let down their nets again. We must not abruptly quit our callings because we have not the success in them we desire. We are likely to speed well, when we follow the guidance of Christ's word. The draught of fishes was by a miracle. We must all, like Peter, own ourselves to be sinful men, therefore Jesus Christ might justly depart from us. But we must beseech him that he would not depart; for woe unto us if the Saviour depart from sinners! Rather let us entreat him to come and dwell in our hearts by faith, that he may transform and cleanse them. These fishermen forsook all, and followed Jesus, when their calling prospered. When riches increase, and we are tempted to set our hearts upon them, then to quit them for Christ is thankworthy.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
They forsook all and followed him - They had followed him before, (John 1:43) , but not so as to forsake all. Till now, they wrought at their ordinary calling.
McArther Bible Commentary
forsook all and followed Him. See note on Mat 4:18. Luke gave a more detailed account of the second call of these disciples.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 4:20 Matthew 4:22 Matthew 19:29 Mark 1:18 Mark 1:20 Luke 5:28 Luke 18:28

Verse 12

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A leper cleansed.
This man is said to be full of leprosy; he had that distemper in a high degree, which represents our natural pollution by sin; we are full of that leprosy; from the crown of the head to the sole of the foot there is no soundness in us. Strong confidence and deep humility are united in the words of this leper. And if any sinner, from a deep sense of vileness, says, I know the Lord can cleanse, but will he look upon such a one as me? will he apply his own precious blood for my cleansing and healing? Yes, he will. Speak not as doubting, but as humbly referring the matter to Christ. And being saved from the guilt and power of our sins, let us spread abroad Christ's fame, and bring others to hear him and to be healed.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
(Matthew 8:2) ; (Mark 1:40) .
McArther Bible Commentary
full of leprosy. Luke's emphasis suggests this was an extremely serious case of leprosy. See note on Mar 1:40.
Bible Cross References
Leviticus 13:16 Matthew 8:2 Mark 1:40 Luke 5:13

Verse 13

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A leper cleansed.
This man is said to be full of leprosy; he had that distemper in a high degree, which represents our natural pollution by sin; we are full of that leprosy; from the crown of the head to the sole of the foot there is no soundness in us. Strong confidence and deep humility are united in the words of this leper. And if any sinner, from a deep sense of vileness, says, I know the Lord can cleanse, but will he look upon such a one as me? will he apply his own precious blood for my cleansing and healing? Yes, he will. Speak not as doubting, but as humbly referring the matter to Christ. And being saved from the guilt and power of our sins, let us spread abroad Christ's fame, and bring others to hear him and to be healed.
McArther Bible Commentary
Immediately. One of the characteristics of Jesus' healings was immediate, total wholeness. Cf. Luk 17:14; Mat 8:13; Mar 5:29; Joh 5:9.
Bible Cross References
2 Kings 5:14 Matthew 8:3 Luke 5:12 Luke 5:14

Verse 14

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A leper cleansed.
This man is said to be full of leprosy; he had that distemper in a high degree, which represents our natural pollution by sin; we are full of that leprosy; from the crown of the head to the sole of the foot there is no soundness in us. Strong confidence and deep humility are united in the words of this leper. And if any sinner, from a deep sense of vileness, says, I know the Lord can cleanse, but will he look upon such a one as me? will he apply his own precious blood for my cleansing and healing? Yes, he will. Speak not as doubting, but as humbly referring the matter to Christ. And being saved from the guilt and power of our sins, let us spread abroad Christ's fame, and bring others to hear him and to be healed.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
(Leviticus 14:2) .
McArther Bible Commentary
tell no one. See note on Mat 8:4. show yourself to the priest. I.e., in accordance with the law governing leprosy (Lev 13:1-46).
Bible Cross References
Leviticus 13:49 Leviticus 14:2 Matthew 8:4 Luke 5:13 Luke 17:14

Verse 15

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A leper cleansed.
This man is said to be full of leprosy; he had that distemper in a high degree, which represents our natural pollution by sin; we are full of that leprosy; from the crown of the head to the sole of the foot there is no soundness in us. Strong confidence and deep humility are united in the words of this leper. And if any sinner, from a deep sense of vileness, says, I know the Lord can cleanse, but will he look upon such a one as me? will he apply his own precious blood for my cleansing and healing? Yes, he will. Speak not as doubting, but as humbly referring the matter to Christ. And being saved from the guilt and power of our sins, let us spread abroad Christ's fame, and bring others to hear him and to be healed.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 4:24 Matthew 9:26 Matthew 9:31 Mark 1:45

Verse 16

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A leper cleansed.
This man is said to be full of leprosy; he had that distemper in a high degree, which represents our natural pollution by sin; we are full of that leprosy; from the crown of the head to the sole of the foot there is no soundness in us. Strong confidence and deep humility are united in the words of this leper. And if any sinner, from a deep sense of vileness, says, I know the Lord can cleanse, but will he look upon such a one as me? will he apply his own precious blood for my cleansing and healing? Yes, he will. Speak not as doubting, but as humbly referring the matter to Christ. And being saved from the guilt and power of our sins, let us spread abroad Christ's fame, and bring others to hear him and to be healed.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
He withdrew - The expression in the original implies, that he did so frequently.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 14:23 Mark 1:35 Luke 3:21 Luke 6:12 Luke 9:28 Luke 9:29

Verse 17

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A paralytic cured.
How many are there in our assemblies, where the gospel is preached, who do not sit under the word, but sit by! It is to them as a tale that is told them, not as a message that is sent to them. Observe the duties taught and recommended to us by the history of the paralytic. In applying to Christ, we must be very pressing and urgent; that is an evidence of faith, and is very pleasing to Christ, and prevailing with him. Give us, Lord, the same kind of faith with respect to thy ability and willingness to heal our souls. Give us to desire the pardon of sin more than any earthly blessing, or life itself. Enable us to believe thy power to forgive sins; then will our souls cheerfully arise and go where thou pleasest.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Sitting by - As being more honourable than the bulk of the congregation, who stood. And the power of the Lord was present to heal them - To heal the sickness of their souls, as well as all bodily diseases.
McArther Bible Commentary
Pharisees. See note on Mat 3:7. teachers of the law. I.e., scribes. See note on Mat 2:4. These Jewish leaders came from as far away as Jerusalem. His reputation had spread, and already the scribes and Pharisees were watching Him critically.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 15:1 Mark 1:45 Mark 5:30 Luke 2:46 Luke 6:19 Luke 8:46 John 3:10 Acts 5:34

Verse 18

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A paralytic cured.
How many are there in our assemblies, where the gospel is preached, who do not sit under the word, but sit by! It is to them as a tale that is told them, not as a message that is sent to them. Observe the duties taught and recommended to us by the history of the paralytic. In applying to Christ, we must be very pressing and urgent; that is an evidence of faith, and is very pleasing to Christ, and prevailing with him. Give us, Lord, the same kind of faith with respect to thy ability and willingness to heal our souls. Give us to desire the pardon of sin more than any earthly blessing, or life itself. Enable us to believe thy power to forgive sins; then will our souls cheerfully arise and go where thou pleasest.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
(Matthew 9:2) ; (Mark 2:3) .
Bible Cross References
Matthew 4:24 Matthew 9:2 Mark 2:3 Luke 5:24

Verse 19

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A paralytic cured.
How many are there in our assemblies, where the gospel is preached, who do not sit under the word, but sit by! It is to them as a tale that is told them, not as a message that is sent to them. Observe the duties taught and recommended to us by the history of the paralytic. In applying to Christ, we must be very pressing and urgent; that is an evidence of faith, and is very pleasing to Christ, and prevailing with him. Give us, Lord, the same kind of faith with respect to thy ability and willingness to heal our souls. Give us to desire the pardon of sin more than any earthly blessing, or life itself. Enable us to believe thy power to forgive sins; then will our souls cheerfully arise and go where thou pleasest.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Not being able to bring him in through the multitude, they went round about by a back passage, and going up the stairs on the outside, they came upon the flat - roofed house, and let him down through the trap door, such as was on the top of most of the Jewish houses: doubtless, with such circumspection as the circumstances plainly required.
McArther Bible Commentary
through the tiling. This appears to have been a home with roof tiles which, when removed, gave access to lower the man between the roof beams. The extreme measures they took to lay this man before Jesus indicate that the crowds following Him were very large. With the press of people around Jesus, it would have been impossible for men carrying a paralytic to get close enough to Him, even if they waited until He left the house.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 9:25 Matthew 24:17 Mark 2:4

Verse 20

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A paralytic cured.
How many are there in our assemblies, where the gospel is preached, who do not sit under the word, but sit by! It is to them as a tale that is told them, not as a message that is sent to them. Observe the duties taught and recommended to us by the history of the paralytic. In applying to Christ, we must be very pressing and urgent; that is an evidence of faith, and is very pleasing to Christ, and prevailing with him. Give us, Lord, the same kind of faith with respect to thy ability and willingness to heal our souls. Give us to desire the pardon of sin more than any earthly blessing, or life itself. Enable us to believe thy power to forgive sins; then will our souls cheerfully arise and go where thou pleasest.
McArther Bible Commentary
your sins are forgiven. Christ ignored the paralysis and addressed the man's greater need first. See note on Mat 9:2. In doing so, He asserted a prerogative that was God's alone (Luk 5:21; cf. Luk 7:49). His subsequent healing of the man's paralysis was proof that He had the authority to forgive sins as well.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 9:2 Matthew 9:5 Luke 7:48

Verse 21

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A paralytic cured.
How many are there in our assemblies, where the gospel is preached, who do not sit under the word, but sit by! It is to them as a tale that is told them, not as a message that is sent to them. Observe the duties taught and recommended to us by the history of the paralytic. In applying to Christ, we must be very pressing and urgent; that is an evidence of faith, and is very pleasing to Christ, and prevailing with him. Give us, Lord, the same kind of faith with respect to thy ability and willingness to heal our souls. Give us to desire the pardon of sin more than any earthly blessing, or life itself. Enable us to believe thy power to forgive sins; then will our souls cheerfully arise and go where thou pleasest.
McArther Bible Commentary
blasphemies. Their assessment would have been correct if He were not God incarnate. See note on Mat 9:3.
Bible Cross References
Isaiah 43:25 Luke 3:8 Luke 5:22 Luke 7:49

Verse 22

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A paralytic cured.
How many are there in our assemblies, where the gospel is preached, who do not sit under the word, but sit by! It is to them as a tale that is told them, not as a message that is sent to them. Observe the duties taught and recommended to us by the history of the paralytic. In applying to Christ, we must be very pressing and urgent; that is an evidence of faith, and is very pleasing to Christ, and prevailing with him. Give us, Lord, the same kind of faith with respect to thy ability and willingness to heal our souls. Give us to desire the pardon of sin more than any earthly blessing, or life itself. Enable us to believe thy power to forgive sins; then will our souls cheerfully arise and go where thou pleasest.
McArther Bible Commentary
perceived. I.e., by means of His omniscience. Cf. Mat 9:4; Joh 5:24-25.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 12:15 Luke 5:21 Luke 5:23

Verse 23

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A paralytic cured.
How many are there in our assemblies, where the gospel is preached, who do not sit under the word, but sit by! It is to them as a tale that is told them, not as a message that is sent to them. Observe the duties taught and recommended to us by the history of the paralytic. In applying to Christ, we must be very pressing and urgent; that is an evidence of faith, and is very pleasing to Christ, and prevailing with him. Give us, Lord, the same kind of faith with respect to thy ability and willingness to heal our souls. Give us to desire the pardon of sin more than any earthly blessing, or life itself. Enable us to believe thy power to forgive sins; then will our souls cheerfully arise and go where thou pleasest.
McArther Bible Commentary
Which is easier. See note on Mat 9:5.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 9:2 Matthew 9:5 Luke 5:22 Luke 5:24 Luke 7:48

Verse 24

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A paralytic cured.
How many are there in our assemblies, where the gospel is preached, who do not sit under the word, but sit by! It is to them as a tale that is told them, not as a message that is sent to them. Observe the duties taught and recommended to us by the history of the paralytic. In applying to Christ, we must be very pressing and urgent; that is an evidence of faith, and is very pleasing to Christ, and prevailing with him. Give us, Lord, the same kind of faith with respect to thy ability and willingness to heal our souls. Give us to desire the pardon of sin more than any earthly blessing, or life itself. Enable us to believe thy power to forgive sins; then will our souls cheerfully arise and go where thou pleasest.
McArther Bible Commentary
that you may know. His ability to heal anyone and everyone at will-totally and immediately (Luk 5:25)-was incontrovertible proof of His deity. As God, Jesus had all authority to forgive sins. This was a decisive moment and should have ended once and for all the Pharisees' opposition. Instead, they began trying to discredit Him by charging Him with violating their Sabbath rules (see notes on Luk 6:2-11).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 4:24 Luke 5:18 Luke 5:23 John 5:8

Verse 25

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A paralytic cured.
How many are there in our assemblies, where the gospel is preached, who do not sit under the word, but sit by! It is to them as a tale that is told them, not as a message that is sent to them. Observe the duties taught and recommended to us by the history of the paralytic. In applying to Christ, we must be very pressing and urgent; that is an evidence of faith, and is very pleasing to Christ, and prevailing with him. Give us, Lord, the same kind of faith with respect to thy ability and willingness to heal our souls. Give us to desire the pardon of sin more than any earthly blessing, or life itself. Enable us to believe thy power to forgive sins; then will our souls cheerfully arise and go where thou pleasest.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 9:8 Mark 2:12

Verse 26

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A paralytic cured.
How many are there in our assemblies, where the gospel is preached, who do not sit under the word, but sit by! It is to them as a tale that is told them, not as a message that is sent to them. Observe the duties taught and recommended to us by the history of the paralytic. In applying to Christ, we must be very pressing and urgent; that is an evidence of faith, and is very pleasing to Christ, and prevailing with him. Give us, Lord, the same kind of faith with respect to thy ability and willingness to heal our souls. Give us to desire the pardon of sin more than any earthly blessing, or life itself. Enable us to believe thy power to forgive sins; then will our souls cheerfully arise and go where thou pleasest.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
We have seen strange things to. day - Sins forgiven, miracles wrought.
McArther Bible Commentary
strange things. The response is curiously non-committal-not void of wonder and amazement, but utterly void of true faith.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 9:8 Luke 1:65 Luke 7:16

Verse 27

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Levi called, Christ's answer to the Pharisees.
It was a wonder of Christ's grace, that he would call a publican to be his disciple and follower. It was a wonder of his grace, that the call was made so effectual. It was a wonder of his grace, that he came to call sinners to repentance, and to assure them of pardon. It was a wonder of his grace, that he so patiently bore the contradiction of sinners against himself and his disciples. It was a wonder of his grace, that he fixed the services of his disciples according to their strength and standing. The Lord trains up his people gradually for the trials allotted them; we should copy his example in dealing with the weak in faith, or the tempted believer.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
(Matthew 9:9) ; (Mark 2:14) .
McArther Bible Commentary
Levi. Matthew's name prior to his conversion. See notes on Mat 9:9, Mat 9:11.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 9:9 Matthew 10:3 Mark 2:14

Verse 28

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Levi called, Christ's answer to the Pharisees.
It was a wonder of Christ's grace, that he would call a publican to be his disciple and follower. It was a wonder of his grace, that the call was made so effectual. It was a wonder of his grace, that he came to call sinners to repentance, and to assure them of pardon. It was a wonder of his grace, that he so patiently bore the contradiction of sinners against himself and his disciples. It was a wonder of his grace, that he fixed the services of his disciples according to their strength and standing. The Lord trains up his people gradually for the trials allotted them; we should copy his example in dealing with the weak in faith, or the tempted believer.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Leaving all - His business and gain.
McArther Bible Commentary
left all. Cf. verse Luk 5:11; Luk 9:59-62. This implies an irreversible action.
Bible Cross References
Luke 5:11 Luke 5:29

Verse 29

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Levi called, Christ's answer to the Pharisees.
It was a wonder of Christ's grace, that he would call a publican to be his disciple and follower. It was a wonder of his grace, that the call was made so effectual. It was a wonder of his grace, that he came to call sinners to repentance, and to assure them of pardon. It was a wonder of his grace, that he so patiently bore the contradiction of sinners against himself and his disciples. It was a wonder of his grace, that he fixed the services of his disciples according to their strength and standing. The Lord trains up his people gradually for the trials allotted them; we should copy his example in dealing with the weak in faith, or the tempted believer.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
(Matthew 9:9, 10; Mark 2:14, 15). Matthew Honored Christ Before Friends
—In his grateful humility, Matthew desired to show his appreciation of the honor bestowed upon him, and, calling together those who had been his associates in business, in pleasure, and sin, he made a great feast for the Saviour. If Jesus would call him, who was so sinful and unworthy, He would surely accept his former companions who were, thought Matthew, far more deserving than himself. Matthew had a great longing that they should share the benefits of the mercies and grace of Christ. He desired them to know that Christ did not, as did the scribes and Pharisees, despise and hate the publicans and sinners. He wanted them to know Christ as the blessed Saviour.At the feast the Saviour occupied the most honored seat. Matthew was now the servant of Christ, and he would have his friends know in what light he regarded his Leader and Master. He would have them know that he felt highly honored in entertaining so royal a guest.Jesus never refused an invitation to such a feast. The object ever before Him was to sow in the hearts of His hearers the seeds of truth, through His winning conversation to draw hearts to Himself. In His every act Christ had a purpose, and the lesson which He gave on this occasion was timely and appropriate. By this act He declared that even publicans and sinners were not excluded from His presence. Publicans and sinners could now bear the testimony that Christ honored them with His presence and conversed with them (Manuscript 3, 1898).
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
And Levi made him a great entertainment - It was necessarily great, because of the great number of guests.
McArther Bible Commentary
a great number of tax collectors. Levi's immediate response was to introduce his former comrades to Christ.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 5:46 Matthew 9:9 Matthew 11:19 Luke 15:1

Verse 30

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Levi called, Christ's answer to the Pharisees.
It was a wonder of Christ's grace, that he would call a publican to be his disciple and follower. It was a wonder of his grace, that the call was made so effectual. It was a wonder of his grace, that he came to call sinners to repentance, and to assure them of pardon. It was a wonder of his grace, that he so patiently bore the contradiction of sinners against himself and his disciples. It was a wonder of his grace, that he fixed the services of his disciples according to their strength and standing. The Lord trains up his people gradually for the trials allotted them; we should copy his example in dealing with the weak in faith, or the tempted believer.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 9:11.
McArther Bible Commentary
eat and drink. Consorting with outcasts on any level-even merely speaking to them-was bad enough. Eating and drinking with them implied a level of friendship that was abhorrent to the Pharisees (cf. Luk 7:34; Luk 15:2; Luk 19:7).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 5:46 Matthew 9:11 Mark 2:16 Luke 15:2 Acts 23:9

Verse 31

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Levi called, Christ's answer to the Pharisees.
It was a wonder of Christ's grace, that he would call a publican to be his disciple and follower. It was a wonder of his grace, that the call was made so effectual. It was a wonder of his grace, that he came to call sinners to repentance, and to assure them of pardon. It was a wonder of his grace, that he so patiently bore the contradiction of sinners against himself and his disciples. It was a wonder of his grace, that he fixed the services of his disciples according to their strength and standing. The Lord trains up his people gradually for the trials allotted them; we should copy his example in dealing with the weak in faith, or the tempted believer.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 9:12, 13.
McArther Bible Commentary
who are well. I.e., those who think they are whole don't seek healing. See note on Mat 9:12.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 9:12 Matthew 9:13 Mark 2:17 Luke 5:32

Verse 32

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Levi called, Christ's answer to the Pharisees.
It was a wonder of Christ's grace, that he would call a publican to be his disciple and follower. It was a wonder of his grace, that the call was made so effectual. It was a wonder of his grace, that he came to call sinners to repentance, and to assure them of pardon. It was a wonder of his grace, that he so patiently bore the contradiction of sinners against himself and his disciples. It was a wonder of his grace, that he fixed the services of his disciples according to their strength and standing. The Lord trains up his people gradually for the trials allotted them; we should copy his example in dealing with the weak in faith, or the tempted believer.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 9:12, 13.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 9:13.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 9:13 Mark 2:17 Luke 5:31 Luke 5:33

Verse 33

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Levi called, Christ's answer to the Pharisees.
It was a wonder of Christ's grace, that he would call a publican to be his disciple and follower. It was a wonder of his grace, that the call was made so effectual. It was a wonder of his grace, that he came to call sinners to repentance, and to assure them of pardon. It was a wonder of his grace, that he so patiently bore the contradiction of sinners against himself and his disciples. It was a wonder of his grace, that he fixed the services of his disciples according to their strength and standing. The Lord trains up his people gradually for the trials allotted them; we should copy his example in dealing with the weak in faith, or the tempted believer.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Make prayers - Long and solemn. (Matthew 9:14) ; (Mark 2:18) .
McArther Bible Commentary
fast often. Jesus did fast on at least one occasion (Mat 4:2)-but privately, in accordance with His own teaching (cf. Mat 6:16-18). The law also prescribed a fast on the Day of Atonement (Lev 16:29-31; Lev 23:27)-but all other fasts were supposed to be voluntary, for specific reasons such as penitence and earnest prayer. The fact that these Pharisees raised this question shows that they thought of fasting as a public exercise to display one's own spirituality. Yet, the OT also rebuked hypocritical fasting (Isa 58:3-6). See notes on Mat 6:16-17; Mat 9:15.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 9:14 Mark 2:18 Luke 2:37 Luke 5:32 Luke 5:34

Verse 34

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Levi called, Christ's answer to the Pharisees.
It was a wonder of Christ's grace, that he would call a publican to be his disciple and follower. It was a wonder of his grace, that the call was made so effectual. It was a wonder of his grace, that he came to call sinners to repentance, and to assure them of pardon. It was a wonder of his grace, that he so patiently bore the contradiction of sinners against himself and his disciples. It was a wonder of his grace, that he fixed the services of his disciples according to their strength and standing. The Lord trains up his people gradually for the trials allotted them; we should copy his example in dealing with the weak in faith, or the tempted believer.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Can ye make - That is, is it proper to make men fast and mourn, during a festival solemnity?
Bible Cross References
Matthew 9:15 Luke 5:33 Luke 5:35

Verse 35

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Levi called, Christ's answer to the Pharisees.
It was a wonder of Christ's grace, that he would call a publican to be his disciple and follower. It was a wonder of his grace, that the call was made so effectual. It was a wonder of his grace, that he came to call sinners to repentance, and to assure them of pardon. It was a wonder of his grace, that he so patiently bore the contradiction of sinners against himself and his disciples. It was a wonder of his grace, that he fixed the services of his disciples according to their strength and standing. The Lord trains up his people gradually for the trials allotted them; we should copy his example in dealing with the weak in faith, or the tempted believer.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 9:15 Mark 2:20 Luke 5:34 Luke 5:36 Luke 17:22

Verse 36

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Levi called, Christ's answer to the Pharisees.
It was a wonder of Christ's grace, that he would call a publican to be his disciple and follower. It was a wonder of his grace, that the call was made so effectual. It was a wonder of his grace, that he came to call sinners to repentance, and to assure them of pardon. It was a wonder of his grace, that he so patiently bore the contradiction of sinners against himself and his disciples. It was a wonder of his grace, that he fixed the services of his disciples according to their strength and standing. The Lord trains up his people gradually for the trials allotted them; we should copy his example in dealing with the weak in faith, or the tempted believer.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
He spake also a parable - Taken from clothes and wine; therefore peculiarly proper at a feast.
McArther Bible Commentary
See notes on Mat 9:16-17.
Bible Cross References
Luke 5:35 Luke 5:37

Verse 37

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Levi called, Christ's answer to the Pharisees.
It was a wonder of Christ's grace, that he would call a publican to be his disciple and follower. It was a wonder of his grace, that the call was made so effectual. It was a wonder of his grace, that he came to call sinners to repentance, and to assure them of pardon. It was a wonder of his grace, that he so patiently bore the contradiction of sinners against himself and his disciples. It was a wonder of his grace, that he fixed the services of his disciples according to their strength and standing. The Lord trains up his people gradually for the trials allotted them; we should copy his example in dealing with the weak in faith, or the tempted believer.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 9:17.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 9:17 Luke 5:36 Luke 5:38

Verse 38

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Levi called, Christ's answer to the Pharisees.
It was a wonder of Christ's grace, that he would call a publican to be his disciple and follower. It was a wonder of his grace, that the call was made so effectual. It was a wonder of his grace, that he came to call sinners to repentance, and to assure them of pardon. It was a wonder of his grace, that he so patiently bore the contradiction of sinners against himself and his disciples. It was a wonder of his grace, that he fixed the services of his disciples according to their strength and standing. The Lord trains up his people gradually for the trials allotted them; we should copy his example in dealing with the weak in faith, or the tempted believer.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 9:17.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 9:17 Luke 5:37 Luke 5:39

Verse 39

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Levi called, Christ's answer to the Pharisees.
It was a wonder of Christ's grace, that he would call a publican to be his disciple and follower. It was a wonder of his grace, that the call was made so effectual. It was a wonder of his grace, that he came to call sinners to repentance, and to assure them of pardon. It was a wonder of his grace, that he so patiently bore the contradiction of sinners against himself and his disciples. It was a wonder of his grace, that he fixed the services of his disciples according to their strength and standing. The Lord trains up his people gradually for the trials allotted them; we should copy his example in dealing with the weak in faith, or the tempted believer.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
And no man having drunk old wine - And beside, men are not wont to be immediately freed from old prejudices.
McArther Bible Commentary
The old is better. Those who had acquired a taste for old covenant ceremonies and Pharisaic traditions were loath to give them up for the new wine of Jesus' teaching. Luke alone adds this saying.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 5:40 Luke 5:38 Luke 6:1