Definition: And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 14:23. It's a really significant moment in Jesus’ life and it speaks about his preparation for a difficult task. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, Jesus was preparing to face a huge crowd – maybe thousands of people – who were growing restless and wanting to follow him. Here’s a breakdown of the key parts: “And when he had sent the multitudes away…” - This refers to Jesus sending his disciples to different places to gather people. He was essentially preparing for a large group to come to him. “…he went up into a mountain apart to pray:” – Jesus, feeling overwhelmed by the crowd and needing some quiet time, decided to go to a secluded place – a mountain. This wasn’t just a quick stop; it was a deliberate move to reflect and prepare for what was coming. “…and when the evening was come, he was there alone.” - This is the crucial part. Jesus stayed on that mountain all night, alone. He needed time to focus and meditate before facing the crowd. What does this verse teach us? It shows a few important things: Jesus’ Dependence on God: He wasn't relying solely on his own strength or abilities. He knew he needed God's help, especially when dealing with large groups of people. His Preparation is Key: Jesus was setting himself up for a challenge – preparing to lead and serve. Humility & Solitude: Spending time alone, reflecting, and praying shows his humility and a deep sense of purpose. It’s often interpreted as a moment of intense spiritual preparation. It's a powerful illustration of Jesus' readiness for a significant role in the world. --- Do you want me to explain any of these points further? For example, would you like me to: Explain the context of this passage in the Bible? Talk about why it’s considered a key moment in Jesus’ ministry?