New Testament
Matthew 15:38
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The number of men who ate was 4,000 — not counting the women and children.
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And they that did eat were four thousand men, beside women and children.
What Matthew 15:38 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we learn about a miraculous event where Jesus fed a large crowd of 4,000 men, not including women and children. This highlights the significance of the miracle, as the actual number of people present was likely much higher when considering families. The feeding of the 4,000 demonstrates Jesus' compassion and ability to provide for people's needs, both physically and spiritually. It also emphasizes the importance of community, as many people gathered to hear Jesus teach and were nourished by His words and actions. This event is a reminder of God's provision and care for His people, showing that He is attentive to their needs. The mention of the number of men specifically indicates the scale of the miracle and the impact it had on those who witnessed it. Overall, this verse encapsulates the themes of abundance, community, and divine provision, illustrating how Jesus meets the needs of those who follow Him.
How to apply Matthew 15:38 to your life
This verse encourages us to trust in God's provision in our lives. Just as Jesus cared for the physical needs of the crowd, we can rely on Him to meet our needs today. It also reminds us to be mindful of others in our community and to share what we have with those in need.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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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 15:38 mean?
Matthew 15:38 describes the miracle where Jesus fed 4,000 men, not including women and children. This event illustrates Jesus' compassion and ability to provide for people's physical needs, emphasizing the significance of community and divine care.
What is the significance of the number 4,000 in Matthew 15:38?
The number 4,000 in Matthew 15:38 highlights the scale of the miracle Jesus performed. It indicates that many people were present, showcasing His ability to meet the needs of a large crowd.
What does 'beside women and children' mean in Matthew 15:38?
The phrase 'beside women and children' indicates that the count of 4,000 men does not include their families, suggesting that the total number of people fed was much higher. This highlights the communal aspect of the miracle.
How does Matthew 15:38 relate to trusting God?
Matthew 15:38 encourages us to trust in God's provision, as Jesus met the physical needs of the crowd. It reminds us that we can rely on Him to provide for our needs today.
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