New Testament
Matthew 14:13
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When Jesus heard the news, he got in a boat and withdrew to a remote place to be alone. But when the crowds found out, they followed him on foot from the surrounding towns.
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When Jesus heard of it, he departed thence by ship into a desert place apart: and when the people had heard thereof, they followed him on foot out of the cities.
What Matthew 14:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus learns about the death of John the Baptist, which deeply affects him. Seeking solitude to process his grief, he gets into a boat and sails to a remote area. However, the crowds, eager to see him and hear his teachings, follow him on foot from nearby towns. This shows both Jesus' need for personal time and the people's relentless desire for his presence and guidance. It highlights the tension between personal needs and the demands of ministry. Jesus' compassion for the people is evident, as he does not turn them away despite his own sorrow. This moment sets the stage for further miracles and teachings, illustrating how Jesus balances his humanity with his divine mission.
How to apply Matthew 14:13 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the importance of taking time for ourselves, especially during difficult moments. However, it also reminds us that our responsibilities to others may call us back into action. Finding balance between self-care and serving others is essential in our lives.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Feeding the Five Thousand (Matthew 14:13–21)
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Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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Keep studying Matthew 14:13
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Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 14:13 mean?
Matthew 14:13 describes Jesus withdrawing to a remote place after hearing about John the Baptist's death. It reflects his need for solitude to grieve, while also showing the people's eagerness to seek him out for guidance and healing.
What is the significance of Jesus seeking solitude in Matthew 14:13?
Jesus seeking solitude in this verse highlights his humanity and the emotional toll of losing John the Baptist. It emphasizes the importance of taking time for personal reflection, especially during moments of grief.
Why did the crowds follow Jesus in Matthew 14:13?
The crowds followed Jesus because they were drawn to his teachings and miracles. Despite his desire for solitude, their persistent pursuit illustrates their deep need for his presence and support.
What themes are present in Matthew 14:13?
Key themes in Matthew 14:13 include Jesus' compassion for the people, the balance between personal needs and ministry demands, and the dynamics of crowd behavior in response to his presence.
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