New Testament
Matthew 9:18
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, a synagogue leader approaches Jesus with a desperate plea.
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
While Jesus was saying these things, a synagogue leader came and knelt before him. "My daughter has just died," he said. "But if you come and place your hand on her, she will live."
While he spake these things unto them, behold, there came a certain ruler, and worshipped him, saying, My daughter is even now dead: but come and lay thy hand upon her, and she shall live.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a synagogue leader approaches Jesus with a desperate plea. His daughter has just died, and he believes that Jesus has the power to bring her back to life. By kneeling before Jesus, he shows both respect and faith. His request is simple yet profound: he asks Jesus to lay His hand on her, indicating that he believes in the healing power of Jesus. This moment highlights the leader's faith in Jesus' ability to perform miracles, even in the face of death. It also sets the stage for a significant miracle, demonstrating Jesus' authority over life and death. The act of kneeling signifies humility and recognition of Jesus' divine power, which is a key aspect of faith. This encounter illustrates the importance of seeking help from Jesus in times of crisis and believing in His ability to intervene in our lives.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Matthew 9:18 to your life
When facing difficult situations, like illness or loss, we can approach Jesus with our needs, just as the synagogue leader did. This teaches us to have faith in His power to help us, even when circumstances seem hopeless. Trusting in Jesus can bring comfort and hope.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 9:18 mean?
Matthew 9:18 describes a synagogue leader who approaches Jesus in desperation, believing that Jesus can bring his dead daughter back to life. This moment emphasizes the leader's faith and humility as he seeks Jesus' help in a time of crisis.
What is the significance of kneeling in Matthew 9:18?
Kneeling in Matthew 9:18 signifies respect and humility. The synagogue leader kneels before Jesus to show his recognition of Jesus' authority and power, reflecting his deep faith in Jesus' ability to perform miracles.
What does the phrase 'she shall live' in Matthew 9:18 mean?
The phrase 'she shall live' indicates the synagogue leader's strong belief that Jesus has the power to restore life. It highlights the theme of faith in Jesus' miraculous abilities, even in seemingly hopeless situations.
How does Matthew 9:18 relate to faith?
Matthew 9:18 illustrates faith by showing the synagogue leader's trust in Jesus' power to heal his daughter. His plea demonstrates that faith can lead individuals to seek help from Jesus in their most desperate moments.

The Book of Matthew
Matthew 1: The Generation and Birth of Jesus Christ
The book begins with the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. It records the generations from Abraham to David, from David until the carrying away into Babylon, and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ, each being fourteen generations. The genealogy concludes with Jacob begetting Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.
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