Introduction
John the Baptiser is killed. Jesus feeds 5,000 and shows his power over nature.
Questions
1. Why had Herod arrested John the Baptiser?
v 3 and 4 For Herod had arrested John, and bound him, and put him in prison for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife. For John said to him, “It is not lawful for you to have her.”
2. What did Jesus do when he heard about the death of John the Baptiser?
v 13 Now when Jesus heard this, he withdrew from there in a boat, to a deserted place apart. ...
3. Why did Peter begin to sink?
v 30 ... he saw that the wind was strong, he was afraid, ...
and v 31 ... Jesus ... said ... why did you doubt?”
Summary Points
- v 1 to 12 Herod thinks Jesus is John the Baptiser whom he had imprisoned and killed. His wife took the opportunity using a rash promise he made to her daughter
- v 13 to 21 When Jesus hears about John's death he goes to a deserted place, but is followed by the crowds. He heals many and in the evening feeds 5000 men plus women and children with five loaves and two fishes
- v 22 to 33 Jesus sends his disciples away in a boat while he sends the crowds away. The boat encounters strong headwinds. Jesus comes to them walking on the water. Peter starts to do the same, but begins to sink and is saved by Jesus. Those in the boat worship Jesus saying that he is the Son of God
- v 34 to 36 When they reach the other side of the lake many more are healed