Matthew 15:39
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 15:39
39 And he sent away the multitude, and took ship, and came into the coasts of Magdala.
Chapter Context
Matthew 15 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of salvation, hope, grace. 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 21-39: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. 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 15:39
39 And he sent away the multitude, and took ship, and came into the coasts of Magdala.
Analysis
And he sent away the multitude, and took ship (καὶ ἀπολύσας τοὺς ὄχλους ἐνέβη εἰς τὸ πλοῖον)—The verb ἀπολύω (apolyō, 'to send away, to dismiss, to release') indicates orderly dismissal, not abandonment. Jesus controlled both gathering and dispersing—sovereign over crowd dynamics. He didn't cling to popularity but purposefully moved according to His Father's agenda. Taking ship (ἐμβαίνω εἰς τὸ πλοῖον) marks transition to His next ministry location.
And came into the coasts of Magdala (καὶ ἦλθεν εἰς τὰ ὅρια Μαγδαλά)—Magdala (Μαγδαλά, Hebrew Migdal meaning 'tower') was a fishing town on Galilee's western shore, home of Mary Magdalene (27:56, 61; 28:1). Mark 8:10 calls it 'Dalmanutha.' The movement from Gentile Decapolis back to Jewish territory shows Jesus's balanced ministry. He neither exclusively focused on Jews nor Gentiles but ministered to both, breaking down the dividing wall (Ephesians 2:14).
Historical Context
Magdala was a prosperous first-century fishing village (excavations reveal fish-processing facilities, synagogue, harbor, markets). Its prosperity contrasts with the wilderness just left, yet Jesus found spiritual poverty in prosperous places and faith in desolate regions. The return to Jewish territory led to confrontation with Pharisees and Sadducees (16:1-4), showing that proximity to Jesus doesn't guarantee acceptance—the Decapolis Gentiles showed more faith than Magdala's religious elite.
Reflection
- How does Jesus's willingness to send away crowds challenge modern success-metrics focused on numbers?
- Why did Jesus find more receptivity among marginalized Gentiles than religious Jewish leaders?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Mark 8:10