1 In those days the multitude being very great, and having nothing to eat, Jesus called his disciples unto him, and saith unto them,

2 I have compassion on the multitude, because they have now been with me three days, and have nothing to eat:

3 And if I send them away fasting to their own houses, they will faint by the way: for divers of them came from far.

4 And his disciples answered him, From whence can a man satisfy these men with bread here in the wilderness?

5 And he asked them, How many loaves have ye? And they said, Seven.

6 And he commanded the people to sit down on the ground: and he took the seven loaves, and gave thanks, and brake, and gave to his disciples to set before them; and they did set them before the people.

7 And they had a few small fishes: and he blessed, and commanded to set them also before them.

8 So they did eat, and were filled: and they took up of the broken meat that was left seven baskets.

9 And they that had eaten were about four thousand: and he sent them away.

10 And straightway he entered into a ship with his disciples, and came into the parts of Dalmanutha.

11 And the Pharisees came forth, and began to question with him, seeking of him a sign from heaven, tempting him.

12 And he sighed deeply in his spirit, and saith, Why doth this generation seek after a sign? verily I say unto you, There shall no sign be given unto this generation.

13 And he left them, and entering into the ship again departed to the other side.

14 Now the disciples had forgotten to take bread, neither had they in the ship with them more than one loaf.

15 And he charged them, saying, Take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, and of the leaven of Herod.

16 And they reasoned among themselves, saying, It is because we have no bread.

17 And when Jesus knew it, he saith unto them, Why reason ye, because ye have no bread? perceive ye not yet, neither understand? have ye your heart yet hardened?

18 Having eyes, see ye not? and having ears, hear ye not? and do ye not remember?

19 When I brake the five loaves among five thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up? They say unto him, Twelve.

20 And when the seven among four thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up? And they said, Seven.

21 And he said unto them, How is it that ye do not understand?

22 And he cometh to Bethsaida; and they bring a blind man unto him, and besought him to touch him.

23 And he took the blind man by the hand, and led him out of the town; and when he had spit on his eyes, and put his hands upon him, he asked him if he saw ought.

24 And he looked up, and said, I see men as trees, walking.

25 After that he put his hands again upon his eyes, and made him look up: and he was restored, and saw every man clearly.

26 And he sent him away to his house, saying, Neither go into the town, nor tell it to any in the town.

27 And Jesus went out, and his disciples, into the towns of Caesarea Philippi: and by the way he asked his disciples, saying unto them, Whom do men say that I am?

28 And they answered, John the Baptist; but some say, Elias; and others, One of the prophets.

29 And he saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Peter answereth and saith unto him, Thou art the Christ.

30 And he charged them that they should tell no man of him.

31 And he began to teach them, that the Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders, and of the chief priests, and scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again.

32 And he spake that saying openly. And Peter took him, and began to rebuke him.

33 But when he had turned about and looked on his disciples, he rebuked Peter, saying, Get thee behind me, Satan: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but the things that be of men.

34 And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.

35 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's, the same shall save it.

36 For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?

37 Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?

38 Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation; of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.

Commentary

Verse 1

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Four thousand fed by a miracle.
Our Lord Jesus encouraged the meanest to come to him for life and grace. Christ knows and considers our frames. The bounty of Christ is always ready; to show that, he repeated this miracle. His favours are renewed, as our wants and necessities are. And those need not fear want, who have Christ to live upon by faith, and do so with thanksgiving.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
(Matthew 15:32) .
McArther Bible Commentary
While all four Gospels record the feeding of the 5,000, only Matthew (Mat 15:32-38) and Mark record the feeding of the 4,000.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 15:32 Mark 6:34 Mark 7:37

Verse 2

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Four thousand fed by a miracle.
Our Lord Jesus encouraged the meanest to come to him for life and grace. Christ knows and considers our frames. The bounty of Christ is always ready; to show that, he repeated this miracle. His favours are renewed, as our wants and necessities are. And those need not fear want, who have Christ to live upon by faith, and do so with thanksgiving.
McArther Bible Commentary
I have compassion. Only here and in the parallel passage (Mat 15:32) did Jesus use this word of Himself. When he fed the 5,000, Jesus expressed compassion for the people's lost spiritual condition (Mar 6:34); here, He expressed compassion for people's physical needs (cf. Mat 6:8, Mat 6:32). Jesus could empathize with their hunger, having experienced it Himself (Mat 4:2). continued with Me three days. This detail reflects the crowd's eagerness to hear Jesus' teaching and experience His healings (cf. Mat 15:30). That they were with Him for three days before the miraculous feeding distinguishes this event from the earlier feeding of the 5,000, in which the crowd gathered, ate, and dispersed in one day (Mat 14:14-15, Mat 14:22-23).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 9:36 Mark 6:32 Mark 6:34 Mark 8:3

Verse 3

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Four thousand fed by a miracle.
Our Lord Jesus encouraged the meanest to come to him for life and grace. Christ knows and considers our frames. The bounty of Christ is always ready; to show that, he repeated this miracle. His favours are renewed, as our wants and necessities are. And those need not fear want, who have Christ to live upon by faith, and do so with thanksgiving.
Bible Cross References
Mark 8:2 Mark 8:4

Verse 4

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Four thousand fed by a miracle.
Our Lord Jesus encouraged the meanest to come to him for life and grace. Christ knows and considers our frames. The bounty of Christ is always ready; to show that, he repeated this miracle. His favours are renewed, as our wants and necessities are. And those need not fear want, who have Christ to live upon by faith, and do so with thanksgiving.
McArther Bible Commentary
How can one satisfy these people with bread. Some find the disciples' question incredible in light of the earlier feeding of the 5,000. But it was consistent with their spiritual dullness and lack of understanding (cf. Mar 8:14-21; Mar 6:52). in the wilderness. The Decapolis (see note on Mar 5:20) region was not as heavily populated as Galilee.
Bible Cross References
Mark 8:3 Mark 8:5

Verse 5

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Four thousand fed by a miracle.
Our Lord Jesus encouraged the meanest to come to him for life and grace. Christ knows and considers our frames. The bounty of Christ is always ready; to show that, he repeated this miracle. His favours are renewed, as our wants and necessities are. And those need not fear want, who have Christ to live upon by faith, and do so with thanksgiving.
McArther Bible Commentary
loaves. Flat cakes of bread which could easily be broken into smaller pieces.
Bible Cross References
Mark 8:4 Mark 8:6

Verse 6

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Four thousand fed by a miracle.
Our Lord Jesus encouraged the meanest to come to him for life and grace. Christ knows and considers our frames. The bounty of Christ is always ready; to show that, he repeated this miracle. His favours are renewed, as our wants and necessities are. And those need not fear want, who have Christ to live upon by faith, and do so with thanksgiving.
Bible Cross References
Mark 8:5 Mark 8:7 Mark 8:20

Verse 7

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Four thousand fed by a miracle.
Our Lord Jesus encouraged the meanest to come to him for life and grace. Christ knows and considers our frames. The bounty of Christ is always ready; to show that, he repeated this miracle. His favours are renewed, as our wants and necessities are. And those need not fear want, who have Christ to live upon by faith, and do so with thanksgiving.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 14:19 Mark 8:6

Verse 8

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Four thousand fed by a miracle.
Our Lord Jesus encouraged the meanest to come to him for life and grace. Christ knows and considers our frames. The bounty of Christ is always ready; to show that, he repeated this miracle. His favours are renewed, as our wants and necessities are. And those need not fear want, who have Christ to live upon by faith, and do so with thanksgiving.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
So they did eat - This miracle was intended to demonstrate, that Christ was the true bread which cometh down from heaven; for he who was almighty to create bread without means to support natural life, could not want power to create bread without means to support spiritual life. And this heavenly bread we stand so much in need of every moment, that we ought to be always praying, Lord, evermore give us this bread.
McArther Bible Commentary
seven large baskets. These baskets were not the same kind of baskets mentioned in the feeding of the 5,000 (Mar 6:43). Those were small baskets, commonly used by the Jewish people to hold one or two meals when traveling. The word here refers to large baskets (large enough to hold a man, Act 9:25) used by Gentiles. What was done with the leftover food is not stated. It was likely given back to the people to sustain them on their trip home, since the disciples evidently did not take it with them (cf. Mar 8:14).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 14:20 Matthew 15:37 Mark 8:9 Mark 8:20

Verse 9

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Four thousand fed by a miracle.
Our Lord Jesus encouraged the meanest to come to him for life and grace. Christ knows and considers our frames. The bounty of Christ is always ready; to show that, he repeated this miracle. His favours are renewed, as our wants and necessities are. And those need not fear want, who have Christ to live upon by faith, and do so with thanksgiving.
McArther Bible Commentary
four thousand. The number of the men only, not including the women and children (Mat 15:38). Adding them could raise the count to at least sixteen thousand people.
Bible Cross References
Mark 8:8 Mark 8:10

Verse 10

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Four thousand fed by a miracle.
Our Lord Jesus encouraged the meanest to come to him for life and grace. Christ knows and considers our frames. The bounty of Christ is always ready; to show that, he repeated this miracle. His favours are renewed, as our wants and necessities are. And those need not fear want, who have Christ to live upon by faith, and do so with thanksgiving.
McArther Bible Commentary
Dalmanutha. This location is not mentioned in any secular literature and is only mentioned here in the NT. The location is unknown, but it is clearly in the region near Magdala. Recent archeological work in the area, when the water level of Lake Galilee was at an all-time low, revealed several heretofore unknown anchorages. One small harbor has been found between Magadala and Capernaum, and this may have been Dalmanutha.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 15:39 Mark 8:9

Verse 11

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ cautions against the Pharisees and Herodians.
Obstinate unbelief will have something to say, though ever so unreasonable. Christ refused to answer their demand. If they will not be convinced, they shall not. Alas! what cause we have to lament for those around us, who destroy themselves and others by their perverse and obstinate unbelief, and enmity to the gospel! When we forget the works of God, and distrust him, we should chide ourselves severely, as Christ here reproves his disciples. How is it that we so often mistake his meaning, disregard his warnings, and distrust his providence?
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Tempting him - That is, trying to ensnare him. (Matthew 16:1) .
McArther Bible Commentary
Pharisees. See notes on Mar 2:16; Mat 3:7. sign from heaven. The skeptical Pharisees demanded further miraculous proof of Jesus' messianic claims. Not content with the countless miracles He had performed on earth, they demanded some sort of astronomical miracle. Having already given them more than enough proof, Jesus refused to accommodate their spiritual blindness. The supreme sign verifying His claim to be Son of God and Messiah was to be His resurrection (Mat 12:39-40).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 12:38 Matthew 16:1 Luke 11:16 John 8:6

Verse 12

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ cautions against the Pharisees and Herodians.
Obstinate unbelief will have something to say, though ever so unreasonable. Christ refused to answer their demand. If they will not be convinced, they shall not. Alas! what cause we have to lament for those around us, who destroy themselves and others by their perverse and obstinate unbelief, and enmity to the gospel! When we forget the works of God, and distrust him, we should chide ourselves severely, as Christ here reproves his disciples. How is it that we so often mistake his meaning, disregard his warnings, and distrust his providence?
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
(Matthew 16:4) .
Bible Cross References
Matthew 12:38 Matthew 12:39 Mark 7:34 Mark 8:13 Luke 11:29

Verse 13

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ cautions against the Pharisees and Herodians.
Obstinate unbelief will have something to say, though ever so unreasonable. Christ refused to answer their demand. If they will not be convinced, they shall not. Alas! what cause we have to lament for those around us, who destroy themselves and others by their perverse and obstinate unbelief, and enmity to the gospel! When we forget the works of God, and distrust him, we should chide ourselves severely, as Christ here reproves his disciples. How is it that we so often mistake his meaning, disregard his warnings, and distrust his providence?
McArther Bible Commentary
the other side. I.e., to the northeast shore, where Bethsaida (Julias) was located (Mar 8:22).
Bible Cross References
Mark 8:12 Mark 8:14 Acts 27:2

Verse 14

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ cautions against the Pharisees and Herodians.
Obstinate unbelief will have something to say, though ever so unreasonable. Christ refused to answer their demand. If they will not be convinced, they shall not. Alas! what cause we have to lament for those around us, who destroy themselves and others by their perverse and obstinate unbelief, and enmity to the gospel! When we forget the works of God, and distrust him, we should chide ourselves severely, as Christ here reproves his disciples. How is it that we so often mistake his meaning, disregard his warnings, and distrust his providence?
Bible Cross References
Mark 8:13 Mark 8:15

Verse 15

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ cautions against the Pharisees and Herodians.
Obstinate unbelief will have something to say, though ever so unreasonable. Christ refused to answer their demand. If they will not be convinced, they shall not. Alas! what cause we have to lament for those around us, who destroy themselves and others by their perverse and obstinate unbelief, and enmity to the gospel! When we forget the works of God, and distrust him, we should chide ourselves severely, as Christ here reproves his disciples. How is it that we so often mistake his meaning, disregard his warnings, and distrust his providence?
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of Herod, or of the Sadducees; two opposite extremes.
McArther Bible Commentary
leaven of the Pharisees and … Herod. Leaven in the NT illustrates influence (see note on Mat 13:33) and most often symbolizes the evil influence of sin. The leaven of the Pharisees included both their false teaching (Mat 16:12) and their hypocritical behavior (Luk 12:1); the leaven of Herod Antipas was his immoral, corrupt conduct (cf. Mar 6:17-29). The Pharisees and the Herodians were allied against Christ (Mar 3:6).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 14:1 Matthew 14:3 Matthew 14:6 Matthew 16:6 Matthew 16:11 Matthew 22:16 Mark 8:14 Mark 8:16 Luke 12:1

Verse 16

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ cautions against the Pharisees and Herodians.
Obstinate unbelief will have something to say, though ever so unreasonable. Christ refused to answer their demand. If they will not be convinced, they shall not. Alas! what cause we have to lament for those around us, who destroy themselves and others by their perverse and obstinate unbelief, and enmity to the gospel! When we forget the works of God, and distrust him, we should chide ourselves severely, as Christ here reproves his disciples. How is it that we so often mistake his meaning, disregard his warnings, and distrust his providence?
Bible Cross References
Matthew 16:7 Mark 8:15 Mark 8:17

Verse 17

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ cautions against the Pharisees and Herodians.
Obstinate unbelief will have something to say, though ever so unreasonable. Christ refused to answer their demand. If they will not be convinced, they shall not. Alas! what cause we have to lament for those around us, who destroy themselves and others by their perverse and obstinate unbelief, and enmity to the gospel! When we forget the works of God, and distrust him, we should chide ourselves severely, as Christ here reproves his disciples. How is it that we so often mistake his meaning, disregard his warnings, and distrust his providence?
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Our Lord here affirms of all the apostles, (for the question is equivalent to an affirmation,) That their hearts were hardened; that having eyes they saw not, having ears they heard not; that they did not consider, neither understand: the very same expressions that occur in the thirteenth of Matthew. And yet it is certain they were not judicially hardened. Therefore all these strong expressions do not necessarily import any thing more than the present want of spiritual understanding.
McArther Bible Commentary
Why do you reason … no bread? Jesus' question rebuked the disciples for missing His point (see note on Mar 8:15). He was concerned with spiritual truth, not mundane physical matters. heart still hardened. I.e., they were rebellious, spiritually insensitive, and unable to understand spiritual truth (see notes on Mar 3:5; Mar 6:52).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 12:15 Matthew 16:7 Mark 6:52 Mark 8:16

Verse 18

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ cautions against the Pharisees and Herodians.
Obstinate unbelief will have something to say, though ever so unreasonable. Christ refused to answer their demand. If they will not be convinced, they shall not. Alas! what cause we have to lament for those around us, who destroy themselves and others by their perverse and obstinate unbelief, and enmity to the gospel! When we forget the works of God, and distrust him, we should chide ourselves severely, as Christ here reproves his disciples. How is it that we so often mistake his meaning, disregard his warnings, and distrust his providence?
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Our Lord here affirms of all the apostles, (for the question is equivalent to an affirmation,) That their hearts were hardened; that having eyes they saw not, having ears they heard not; that they did not consider, neither understand: the very same expressions that occur in the thirteenth of Matthew. And yet it is certain they were not judicially hardened. Therefore all these strong expressions do not necessarily import any thing more than the present want of spiritual understanding.
McArther Bible Commentary
Jesus' five questions further rebuked the disciples for their hardness of heart, and also reminded them of His ability to provide anything they might lack.
Bible Cross References
Jeremiah 5:21 Ezekiel 12:2 Mark 4:12

Verse 19

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ cautions against the Pharisees and Herodians.
Obstinate unbelief will have something to say, though ever so unreasonable. Christ refused to answer their demand. If they will not be convinced, they shall not. Alas! what cause we have to lament for those around us, who destroy themselves and others by their perverse and obstinate unbelief, and enmity to the gospel! When we forget the works of God, and distrust him, we should chide ourselves severely, as Christ here reproves his disciples. How is it that we so often mistake his meaning, disregard his warnings, and distrust his providence?
Bible Cross References
Matthew 14:20 Mark 6:41

Verse 20

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ cautions against the Pharisees and Herodians.
Obstinate unbelief will have something to say, though ever so unreasonable. Christ refused to answer their demand. If they will not be convinced, they shall not. Alas! what cause we have to lament for those around us, who destroy themselves and others by their perverse and obstinate unbelief, and enmity to the gospel! When we forget the works of God, and distrust him, we should chide ourselves severely, as Christ here reproves his disciples. How is it that we so often mistake his meaning, disregard his warnings, and distrust his providence?
Bible Cross References
Matthew 14:20 Matthew 15:37 Mark 8:6 Mark 8:8

Verse 21

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ cautions against the Pharisees and Herodians.
Obstinate unbelief will have something to say, though ever so unreasonable. Christ refused to answer their demand. If they will not be convinced, they shall not. Alas! what cause we have to lament for those around us, who destroy themselves and others by their perverse and obstinate unbelief, and enmity to the gospel! When we forget the works of God, and distrust him, we should chide ourselves severely, as Christ here reproves his disciples. How is it that we so often mistake his meaning, disregard his warnings, and distrust his providence?
McArther Bible Commentary
How is it you do not understand? An appeal based on the questions Jesus had just asked. Matthew's parallel account reveals that the disciples finally understood His point (Mat 16:12).
Bible Cross References
Mark 6:52 Mark 8:22

Verse 22

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A blind man healed.
Here is a blind man brought to Christ by his friends. Therein appeared the faith of those that brought him. If those who are spiritually blind, do not pray for themselves, yet their friends and relations should pray for them, that Christ would be pleased to touch them. The cure was wrought gradually, which was not usual in our Lord's miracles. Christ showed in what method those commonly are healed by his grace, who by nature are spiritually blind. At first, their knowledge is confused; but, like the light of the morning, it shines more and more to the perfect day, and then they see all things clearly. Slighting Christ's favours is forfeiting them; and he will make those who do so know the worth of privileges by the want of them.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
And he sent him away to his house.Christ does not suffer him to return toBethsaida, where there were many that had beheld the miracle. This is conjectured by some to have been done, because Christ intended to punish the inhabitants of that place by depriving them of the enjoyment of his favor. Whatever might be the reason, it is certain that no miracle was performed by him in order to remain perpetually buried, but that he intended to have it concealed along with many others, till, after having expiated by his death the sins of the world,he should ascend to the glory of the Father.
McArther Bible Commentary
The second of Jesus' two miracles recorded only in Mark (cf. Mar 7:31-37). It is also the first of two healings of blind men recorded in Mark (cf. Mar 10:46-52).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 11:21 Matthew 14:36 Mark 3:10 Mark 6:45

Verse 23

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A blind man healed.
Here is a blind man brought to Christ by his friends. Therein appeared the faith of those that brought him. If those who are spiritually blind, do not pray for themselves, yet their friends and relations should pray for them, that Christ would be pleased to touch them. The cure was wrought gradually, which was not usual in our Lord's miracles. Christ showed in what method those commonly are healed by his grace, who by nature are spiritually blind. At first, their knowledge is confused; but, like the light of the morning, it shines more and more to the perfect day, and then they see all things clearly. Slighting Christ's favours is forfeiting them; and he will make those who do so know the worth of privileges by the want of them.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
He led him out of the town - It was in just displeasure against the inhabitants of Bethsaida for their obstinate infidelity, that our Lord would work no more miracles among them, nor even suffer the person he had cured, either to go into the town, or to tell it to any therein.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
And he sent him away to his house.Christ does not suffer him to return toBethsaida, where there were many that had beheld the miracle. This is conjectured by some to have been done, because Christ intended to punish the inhabitants of that place by depriving them of the enjoyment of his favor. Whatever might be the reason, it is certain that no miracle was performed by him in order to remain perpetually buried, but that he intended to have it concealed along with many others, till, after having expiated by his death the sins of the world,he should ascend to the glory of the Father.
McArther Bible Commentary
spit on his eyes. This action and Jesus' touching his eyes with His hands (Mar 8:25) were apparently meant to reassure the blind man (who would naturally depend on his other senses, such as touch) that Jesus would heal his eyes (cf. Mar 7:33; Joh 9:6).
Bible Cross References
Mark 5:23 Mark 7:33 Mark 8:24 Mark 8:26 John 9:6

Verse 24

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A blind man healed.
Here is a blind man brought to Christ by his friends. Therein appeared the faith of those that brought him. If those who are spiritually blind, do not pray for themselves, yet their friends and relations should pray for them, that Christ would be pleased to touch them. The cure was wrought gradually, which was not usual in our Lord's miracles. Christ showed in what method those commonly are healed by his grace, who by nature are spiritually blind. At first, their knowledge is confused; but, like the light of the morning, it shines more and more to the perfect day, and then they see all things clearly. Slighting Christ's favours is forfeiting them; and he will make those who do so know the worth of privileges by the want of them.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
I see men as trees walking - He distinguished men from trees only by their motion.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
And he sent him away to his house.Christ does not suffer him to return toBethsaida, where there were many that had beheld the miracle. This is conjectured by some to have been done, because Christ intended to punish the inhabitants of that place by depriving them of the enjoyment of his favor. Whatever might be the reason, it is certain that no miracle was performed by him in order to remain perpetually buried, but that he intended to have it concealed along with many others, till, after having expiated by his death the sins of the world,he should ascend to the glory of the Father.
Bible Cross References
Mark 8:23 Mark 8:25

Verse 25

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A blind man healed.
Here is a blind man brought to Christ by his friends. Therein appeared the faith of those that brought him. If those who are spiritually blind, do not pray for themselves, yet their friends and relations should pray for them, that Christ would be pleased to touch them. The cure was wrought gradually, which was not usual in our Lord's miracles. Christ showed in what method those commonly are healed by his grace, who by nature are spiritually blind. At first, their knowledge is confused; but, like the light of the morning, it shines more and more to the perfect day, and then they see all things clearly. Slighting Christ's favours is forfeiting them; and he will make those who do so know the worth of privileges by the want of them.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
And he sent him away to his house.Christ does not suffer him to return toBethsaida, where there were many that had beheld the miracle. This is conjectured by some to have been done, because Christ intended to punish the inhabitants of that place by depriving them of the enjoyment of his favor. Whatever might be the reason, it is certain that no miracle was performed by him in order to remain perpetually buried, but that he intended to have it concealed along with many others, till, after having expiated by his death the sins of the world,he should ascend to the glory of the Father.
Bible Cross References
Mark 8:24 Mark 8:26 Acts 1:10 Acts 14:9

Verse 26

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A blind man healed.
Here is a blind man brought to Christ by his friends. Therein appeared the faith of those that brought him. If those who are spiritually blind, do not pray for themselves, yet their friends and relations should pray for them, that Christ would be pleased to touch them. The cure was wrought gradually, which was not usual in our Lord's miracles. Christ showed in what method those commonly are healed by his grace, who by nature are spiritually blind. At first, their knowledge is confused; but, like the light of the morning, it shines more and more to the perfect day, and then they see all things clearly. Slighting Christ's favours is forfeiting them; and he will make those who do so know the worth of privileges by the want of them.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
And he sent him away to his house.Christ does not suffer him to return toBethsaida, where there were many that had beheld the miracle. This is conjectured by some to have been done, because Christ intended to punish the inhabitants of that place by depriving them of the enjoyment of his favor. Whatever might be the reason, it is certain that no miracle was performed by him in order to remain perpetually buried, but that he intended to have it concealed along with many others, till, after having expiated by his death the sins of the world,he should ascend to the glory of the Father.
McArther Bible Commentary
Neither go into the town. Jesus led the blind man out of town before healing him (Mar 8:23), probably to avoid publicity and the mob scene that would otherwise result. Unlike others in the past (cf. Mar 1:45; Mar 7:36), he apparently obeyed.
Bible Cross References
Mark 8:23 Mark 8:25

Verse 27

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Peter's testimony to Christ.
These things are written, that we may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. These miracles of our Lord assure us that he was not conquered, but a Conqueror. Now the disciples are convinced that Jesus is the Christ; they may bear to hear of his sufferings, of which Christ here begins to give them notice. He sees that amiss in what we say and do, of which we ourselves are not aware, and knows what manner of spirit we are of, when we ourselves do not. The wisdom of man is folly, when it pretends to limit the Divine counsels. Peter did not rightly understand the nature of Christ's kingdom.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
(Matthew 16:13) ; (Luke 9:18) .
McArther Bible Commentary
Caesarea Philippi. A city about twenty-five miles north of Bethsaida (Julias) near Mt. Hermon, not to be confused with the Caesarea located on the Mediterranean coast about sixty miles northwest of Jerusalem.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 16:13 Luke 9:18

Verse 28

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Peter's testimony to Christ.
These things are written, that we may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. These miracles of our Lord assure us that he was not conquered, but a Conqueror. Now the disciples are convinced that Jesus is the Christ; they may bear to hear of his sufferings, of which Christ here begins to give them notice. He sees that amiss in what we say and do, of which we ourselves are not aware, and knows what manner of spirit we are of, when we ourselves do not. The wisdom of man is folly, when it pretends to limit the Divine counsels. Peter did not rightly understand the nature of Christ's kingdom.
McArther Bible Commentary
Elijah. See notes on Mar 6:15; Mal 4:5; Mat 11:14; Luk 1:17.
Bible Cross References
Mark 6:14 Mark 6:15 Luke 9:7 Luke 9:8

Verse 29

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Peter's testimony to Christ.
These things are written, that we may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. These miracles of our Lord assure us that he was not conquered, but a Conqueror. Now the disciples are convinced that Jesus is the Christ; they may bear to hear of his sufferings, of which Christ here begins to give them notice. He sees that amiss in what we say and do, of which we ourselves are not aware, and knows what manner of spirit we are of, when we ourselves do not. The wisdom of man is folly, when it pretends to limit the Divine counsels. Peter did not rightly understand the nature of Christ's kingdom.
McArther Bible Commentary
But who do you say that I am? After they reported the prevailing erroneous views about Jesus (Mar 8:28), He asked the disciples to give their own evaluation of who He was. The answer every person gives to this question will determine his or her eternal destiny. You are the Christ. Peter unhesitatingly replied on behalf of the Twelve (cf. Mat 14:28; Mat 15:15; Mat 17:4; Mat 19:27; Mat 26:33; Joh 6:68; Joh 13:36), clearly and unequivocally affirming that they believed Jesus to be the Messiah.
Bible Cross References
John 6:68 John 6:69

Verse 30

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Peter's testimony to Christ.
These things are written, that we may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. These miracles of our Lord assure us that he was not conquered, but a Conqueror. Now the disciples are convinced that Jesus is the Christ; they may bear to hear of his sufferings, of which Christ here begins to give them notice. He sees that amiss in what we say and do, of which we ourselves are not aware, and knows what manner of spirit we are of, when we ourselves do not. The wisdom of man is folly, when it pretends to limit the Divine counsels. Peter did not rightly understand the nature of Christ's kingdom.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
He enjoined them silence for the present, That he might not encourage the people to set him up for a temporal king; That he might not provoke the scribes and Pharisees to destroy him before the time and, That he might not forestall the bright evidence which was to be given of his Divine character after his resurrection.
McArther Bible Commentary
tell no one. Jesus' messianic mission cannot be understood apart from the cross, which the disciples did not yet understand (cf. Mar 8:31-33; Mar 9:30-32). For them to have proclaimed Jesus as Messiah at this point would have only furthered the misunderstanding that the Messiah was to be a political-military deliverer. This misunderstanding would lead to the Jewish effort to make Jesus king by force (Joh 6:15; cf. Mar 12:12-19) in order be freed. The Jewish people, desperate to be rid of the yoke of Rome, would seek to make Jesus king by force (Joh 6:15; cf. Mar 12:12-19).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 8:4 Matthew 16:20 Mark 9:9 Luke 9:21

Verse 31

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Peter's testimony to Christ.
These things are written, that we may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. These miracles of our Lord assure us that he was not conquered, but a Conqueror. Now the disciples are convinced that Jesus is the Christ; they may bear to hear of his sufferings, of which Christ here begins to give them notice. He sees that amiss in what we say and do, of which we ourselves are not aware, and knows what manner of spirit we are of, when we ourselves do not. The wisdom of man is folly, when it pretends to limit the Divine counsels. Peter did not rightly understand the nature of Christ's kingdom.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
(Matthew 16:21) ; (Luke 9:22) .
McArther Bible Commentary
In this section, as they travel to Jerusalem, Jesus prepares the disciples for His death.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 16:21 Matthew 27:63 Mark 9:31 Mark 10:33 Luke 9:22

Verse 32

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Peter's testimony to Christ.
These things are written, that we may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. These miracles of our Lord assure us that he was not conquered, but a Conqueror. Now the disciples are convinced that Jesus is the Christ; they may bear to hear of his sufferings, of which Christ here begins to give them notice. He sees that amiss in what we say and do, of which we ourselves are not aware, and knows what manner of spirit we are of, when we ourselves do not. The wisdom of man is folly, when it pretends to limit the Divine counsels. Peter did not rightly understand the nature of Christ's kingdom.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
He spake that saying openly - Or in express terms. Till now he had only intimated it to them. And Peter taking hold of him - Perhaps by the arms or clothes.
McArther Bible Commentary
He spoke … openly. I.e., not in parables or allusions (cf. Joh 16:29). Peter … began to rebuke Him. The disciples still could not comprehend a dying Messiah (see note on Mar 8:30). Peter, as usual (see note on Mar 8:29), expressed the thoughts of the rest of the Twelve (cf. Mar 8:33). His brash outburst expressed not only presumption and misunderstanding, but also deep love for Jesus.
Bible Cross References
John 10:24 John 11:14 John 16:25 John 16:29 John 18:20

Verse 33

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Peter's testimony to Christ.
These things are written, that we may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. These miracles of our Lord assure us that he was not conquered, but a Conqueror. Now the disciples are convinced that Jesus is the Christ; they may bear to hear of his sufferings, of which Christ here begins to give them notice. He sees that amiss in what we say and do, of which we ourselves are not aware, and knows what manner of spirit we are of, when we ourselves do not. The wisdom of man is folly, when it pretends to limit the Divine counsels. Peter did not rightly understand the nature of Christ's kingdom.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Looking on his disciples - That they might the more observe what he said to Peter.
McArther Bible Commentary
Get behind Me, Satan! In a startling turnaround, Peter, who had just been praised for being God's spokesman (Mat 16:17-19), was now condemned as Satan's mouthpiece. Yet, Jesus' sacrificial death was God's plan (Act 2:22-23; Act 4:27-28) and whoever opposed it was, wittingly or not, advocating Satan's work.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 4:10 Matthew 16:23

Verse 34

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ must be followed.
Frequent notice is taken of the great flocking there was to Christ for help in various cases. All are concerned to know this, if they expect him to heal their souls. They must not indulge the ease of the body. As the happiness of heaven with Christ, is enough to make up for the loss of life itself for him, so the gain of all the world in sin, will not make up for the ruin of the soul by sin. And there is a day coming, when the cause of Christ will appear as glorious, as some now think it mean and contemptible. May we think of that season, and view every earthly object as we shall do at that great day.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 16:24; Luke 9:23.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
And when he called the people - To hear a truth of the last importance, and one that equally concerned them all. Let him deny himself - His own will, in all things small and great, however pleasing, and that continually: And take up his cross - Embrace the will of God, however painful, daily, hourly, continually. Thus only can he follow me in holiness to glory.
McArther Bible Commentary
deny himself. No one who is unwilling to deny himself can legitimately claim to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. take up his cross. This phrase reveals the extent of self-denial-to the point of death, if necessary. Cross-bearing begins when the penitent sinner becomes aware that he cannot save himself and, holding nothing back, surrenders completely to God's mercy (cf. Mat 19:21-22). and follow Me. See notes on Mar 1:17; Mat 10:38.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 10:38 Matthew 16:24 Luke 9:23 Luke 14:27

Verse 35

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ must be followed.
Frequent notice is taken of the great flocking there was to Christ for help in various cases. All are concerned to know this, if they expect him to heal their souls. They must not indulge the ease of the body. As the happiness of heaven with Christ, is enough to make up for the loss of life itself for him, so the gain of all the world in sin, will not make up for the ruin of the soul by sin. And there is a day coming, when the cause of Christ will appear as glorious, as some now think it mean and contemptible. May we think of that season, and view every earthly object as we shall do at that great day.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
(Matthew 16:25) ; (Luke 9:24) ; (Luke 17:33) ; (John 12:25) .
McArther Bible Commentary
loses his life … will save it. This paradoxical saying reveals an important spiritual truth: those who pursue a life of ease, comfort, and acceptance by the world will not find eternal life. On the other hand, those who give up their lives (see note on Mar 8:34) for the sake of Christ and the gospel will find it. Cf. Joh 12:25.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 10:39 Mark 8:36 Luke 17:33 John 12:25

Verse 36

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ must be followed.
Frequent notice is taken of the great flocking there was to Christ for help in various cases. All are concerned to know this, if they expect him to heal their souls. They must not indulge the ease of the body. As the happiness of heaven with Christ, is enough to make up for the loss of life itself for him, so the gain of all the world in sin, will not make up for the ruin of the soul by sin. And there is a day coming, when the cause of Christ will appear as glorious, as some now think it mean and contemptible. May we think of that season, and view every earthly object as we shall do at that great day.
McArther Bible Commentary
soul. This refers to the real person, who will live forever in heaven or hell. To have all that the world has to offer yet not have Christ is to be eternally bankrupt; all the world's goods will not compensate for losing one's soul eternally. See note on Mat 16:26.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 16:26 Mark 8:35 Mark 8:37

Verse 37

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ must be followed.
Frequent notice is taken of the great flocking there was to Christ for help in various cases. All are concerned to know this, if they expect him to heal their souls. They must not indulge the ease of the body. As the happiness of heaven with Christ, is enough to make up for the loss of life itself for him, so the gain of all the world in sin, will not make up for the ruin of the soul by sin. And there is a day coming, when the cause of Christ will appear as glorious, as some now think it mean and contemptible. May we think of that season, and view every earthly object as we shall do at that great day.
Bible Cross References
Mark 8:36 Mark 8:38

Verse 38

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ must be followed.
Frequent notice is taken of the great flocking there was to Christ for help in various cases. All are concerned to know this, if they expect him to heal their souls. They must not indulge the ease of the body. As the happiness of heaven with Christ, is enough to make up for the loss of life itself for him, so the gain of all the world in sin, will not make up for the ruin of the soul by sin. And there is a day coming, when the cause of Christ will appear as glorious, as some now think it mean and contemptible. May we think of that season, and view every earthly object as we shall do at that great day.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words - That is, avowing whatever I have said (particularly of self denial and the daily cross) both by word and action. (Matthew 10:32) ; (Luke 9:26) ; (Luke 12:8) .
McArther Bible Commentary
ashamed of Me and My words. Those who reject the demands of discipleship prove themselves to be ashamed of Jesus Christ and the truth He taught, thus not redeemed from sin at all. Son of Man. See note on Mar 2:10. when He comes. This is Mark's first reference to Jesus' second coming, an event later described in detail in the Olivet Discourse (Mar 13:1-37).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 8:20 Matthew 10:33 Matthew 16:27 Matthew 16:28 Mark 8:37 Mark 13:26 Luke 9:26 Acts 10:22 Romans 1:16 1 Thessalonians 2:19 1 Thessalonians 3:13 2 Timothy 1:8 Hebrews 11:16 1 John 2:28 Revelation 14:10