Definition: And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Matthew 14:22. It's a really important scene in the Bible that shows Jesus’ control over a group of people. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: Jesus was walking with his disciples (a small group of followers) near the Sea of Galilee. Suddenly, they started to become restless and wanted to keep going. Jesus, being wise and powerful, decided to take them away from the crowd. What happened next? He set up a boat: Jesus asked the disciples to build a boat to sail across the sea. He instructed them to go before him: This means he told them to head towards the other side of the Sea of Galilee, where there was a large crowd. He sent the crowd away: Jesus didn’t want the crowd to overwhelm him. He wanted to keep things calm and focused on him. What does this mean? This is often interpreted as a sign that Jesus is in a vulnerable position – perhaps he's about to face something difficult or powerful. It suggests: Control: Jesus is taking control of the situation, directing his followers. Protection: He’s protecting himself and his disciples from danger. Preparation for a bigger challenge: This event is often seen as a prelude to a larger test or adventure that Jesus would face later on. Important Note: It's also worth noting that there are different interpretations of this story. Some believe it was about the disciples’ initial reluctance, while others see it as a symbolic representation of Jesus' power and his ability to guide them. Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail? For example, I could: Explain the symbolism behind the boat. Discuss the context of the story within the larger narrative of Matthew 14.