Matthew 8:23
And when he was entered into a ship, his disciples followed him.
Original Language Analysis
Καὶ
And
G2532
Καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 11
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἐμβάντι
when he was entered
G1684
ἐμβάντι
when he was entered
Strong's:
G1684
Word #:
2 of 11
to walk on, i.e., embark (aboard a vessel), reach (a pool)
αὐτοῦ
him
G846
αὐτοῦ
him
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
3 of 11
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
εἰς
into
G1519
εἰς
into
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
4 of 11
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἠκολούθησαν
followed
G190
ἠκολούθησαν
followed
Strong's:
G190
Word #:
7 of 11
properly, to be in the same way with, i.e., to accompany (specially, as a disciple)
αὐτοῦ
him
G846
αὐτοῦ
him
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
8 of 11
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
Historical Context
The Sea of Galilee is susceptible to sudden violent storms when cool air from surrounding mountains collides with warm air over the water. Many of Jesus' disciples were experienced fishermen familiar with these dangers, making their fear in the coming storm (verse 25) more significant.
Questions for Reflection
- What does the disciples' following Jesus into the boat teach about trusting Christ's leadership even when the destination is uncertain?
- How can you cultivate the habit of immediately following where Christ leads rather than calculating risks first?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The detail that Jesus 'entered into a ship, and his disciples followed him' sets the scene for the storm miracle that follows. The disciples' physical following into the boat parallels their spiritual following as learners. This journey across Galilee becomes a teaching moment about faith and Christ's divine authority over nature. The pattern of Jesus leading and disciples following models the essential posture of discipleship—going where Christ directs, even into storms.