Matthew 11:1
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 11:1
1 And it came to pass, when Jesus had made an end of commanding his twelve disciples, he departed thence to teach and to preach in their cities.
Chapter Context
Matthew 11 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of hope, creation, salvation. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-30: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 11:1
1 And it came to pass, when Jesus had made an end of commanding his twelve disciples, he departed thence to teach and to preach in their cities.
Analysis
After commissioning the Twelve, 'Jesus departed thence to teach and to preach in their cities' (μετεβη εκειθεν του διδασκειν και κηρυσσειν εν ταις πολεσιν αυτων). Jesus doesn't cease ministry while sending disciples; He multiplies it. 'Their cities' refers to Galilean towns where He ministered. 'Teach' (διδασκειν) and 'preach' (κηρυσσειν) represent comprehensive ministry: instruction and proclamation. This models ministry multiplication: Jesus delegates to the Twelve while continuing His own work. The kingdom advances through both personal ministry and trained workers. Effective leadership develops others while maintaining personal engagement.
Historical Context
Galilean ministry centered in synagogues where Jesus taught Scripture and proclaimed the kingdom. His itinerant pattern visited multiple towns, maximizing gospel reach. Early church continued this multiplication model: apostles established churches while continuing missionary journeys. Paul trained Timothy and Titus while planting new churches. This pattern—personal ministry plus trained workers—characterized effective gospel expansion throughout church history.
Reflection
- How does Jesus model both personal ministry and leadership development?
- What does ministry multiplication teach about effective kingdom expansion?
- How can we maintain personal engagement while delegating to others?
Cross-References
- References Jesus: Matthew 9:35, Acts 10:38
- Parallel theme: Luke 8:1