New Testament
Matthew 9:24
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
He told them, "Everyone out. The girl isn't dead — she's sleeping." They laughed at him.
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He said unto them, Give place: for the maid is not dead, but sleepeth. And they laughed him to scorn.
What Matthew 9:24 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus arrives at a house where a girl has died, and he tells the mourners to leave because she is not dead but merely sleeping. This statement reflects Jesus' authority over life and death, suggesting that death is not the end but a temporary state. The crowd responds with laughter, showing their disbelief in his words. This moment highlights the contrast between human understanding and divine power. While the people see death as final, Jesus offers hope and a different perspective, indicating that he can bring life back to the girl. His use of the term 'sleeping' implies that he has the ability to awaken her, reinforcing his role as a miracle worker and the Son of God. This scene sets the stage for the miraculous resurrection that follows, demonstrating Jesus' compassion and power.
How to apply Matthew 9:24 to your life
This verse encourages us to trust in Jesus' power over our circumstances, even when they seem hopeless. It reminds us that what appears to be the end may just be a new beginning. We should approach challenges with faith, believing in the possibility of divine intervention.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Jairus' Daughter and a Woman Healed (Matthew 9:18–26)
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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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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 9:24 mean?
Matthew 9:24 describes Jesus telling mourners that a girl who has died is merely sleeping, indicating his authority over life and death. This statement reflects the belief that death is not permanent and sets the stage for the miracle of her resurrection.
What is the significance of Jesus saying the girl is sleeping in Matthew 9:24?
By saying the girl is sleeping, Jesus emphasizes that death is not the end but a temporary state. This highlights his power to restore life and offers hope to those who believe in him.
Why did the crowd laugh at Jesus in Matthew 9:24?
The crowd laughed at Jesus because they did not believe his claim that the girl was not dead but sleeping. Their laughter shows their skepticism and lack of faith in his miraculous abilities.
What does the phrase 'she's sleeping' imply in Matthew 9:24?
The phrase 'she's sleeping' implies that Jesus has the power to awaken the girl from death, suggesting that he can bring her back to life. It reflects his divine authority and the hope he offers.
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