The Bible's Chapter Numbers are Keys to Themes You should Notice in the Chapter's Text

Since every number in the Bible has meaning, even the Bible's chapter numbers reflect some aspect of what themes you will find in chapter contents. This quick post demonstrates how chapter numbers in Matthew guide you to new understandings in the text...

For example consider the simple symbolism associated with the following numbers:

• Number 12 -- is a number related to government, rulers and those who judge
• Number 13 -- is a number related to misunderstanding, confusion, deceit, evil ways or doing things the wrong way
• Number 14 -- is a number of Kings, rulers, authority.

Considering these numbers lets look at Matthew chapters 12-14

Matthew chapter 12 shows Jesus being judged by the authorities. A chapter about the religious authorities judging and condemning Jesus.

• Jesus heals on the Sabbath – insulting the Pharisees
• Pharisees plan to destroy Jesus- Jesus withdraws, crowds follow him
• Possessed blind and dumb, casting out devils by Beelzebub
• Pharisees ask for a sign but they will only receive the sign of Jonah

Matthew Chapter 13 – Jesus reveals secrets shared to faithful, hidden from disbelievers and those with eyes and ears shut - A chapter about understanding/comprehending secrets

• Parables – Parable of the seed, good produce but many die
• Disciples ask, why speak in Parables – Only believers will see secrets
• Given to disciples to know secrets but not to others
• To those who have, more will be given, taken from others
• Peoples hearts dull, eyes don’t see, if they did, they would be healed
• Explains Parable of the Sower; Harvest will be plentiful, but Tares will remain until the harvest
• All teaching in parables:  Fills prophecy, secrets to be revealed
• Jesus says–Have you understood these things—Old and new things
• Jesus came to his home: a prophet not honored in his own house

Matthew Chapter 14 – Jesus demonstrates he is the Son of God (The King). A chapter that contrasts an earthly king with Jesus and tells of Jesus evidences he is the Son of God..

• King Herod hears of Jesus – believes he is John the Baptist
• King Herod was sorry he had to honor his oath to give John's head
• Chapter contrasts King Herod's power of life and death to Jesus power of life and death
• Jesus walks on water
• Jesus power over the seas and storm
• Jesus heals the sick - Woman healed by touching hem of his garment (Mal 4:2 sign of the Savior)
• Key verse in chapter is: Matt 14:33 Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God.

 

CONCLUSION:

Notice how by understanding the overall meaning of the numbers 12, 13 and 14, they give you ideas about the types of teachings you should be looking for in the chapters. This does not take away from any other meanings you will find. Instead, by using chapter numbers to guide interpretation, you discover a great new took for getting more meaning out of your study time.

As you consider the number meanings I explain online and in my books, watch chapter numbers as you read the Bible. They will help you notice some of the key points you are to discover in your study.