Matthew 14:12

And his disciples came, and took up the body, and buried it, and went and told Jesus.

Matthew 14:12 (KJV)

Context

Matthew 14:12 closes the account of John the Baptist’s death. Herod Antipas, the tetrarch of Galilee, had imprisoned John because John publicly rebuked Herod’s unlawful marriage to Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife (Matthew 14:3-4). At Herodias’s prompting, Herod ordered John beheaded in prison, and his head was brought on a platter (Matthew 14:8-11).

Meaning

In this verse, John’s disciples come, take up his body, and bury it. Their action is a final act of love and respect for their master, performed with reverent care. It shows their continued devotion to John and their commitment to his teaching. The burial also reflects the Jewish custom of honoring the dead and the hope of resurrection.

After burying John, his disciples go and tell Jesus what had happened. They report not only the fact of John’s death but also the manner of it. This act connects John’s followers to Jesus, acknowledging Him as the one to whom John had pointed. It also prompts Jesus to withdraw to a solitary place (Matthew 14:13), showing the personal impact of the news.

Biblical connections

The parallel account in Mark 6:29 confirms that John’s disciples heard of his death, came, took his body, and laid it in a tomb. This reinforces the historical nature of the event and the disciples’ reverent action. The narrative contrasts the cruel, unjust death of John with the faithful, caring response of his followers, who ensured he received a proper burial and then brought the news to Jesus.

Application

John’s disciples exemplify faithfulness and devotion. Even in grief, they honor their leader and then turn to Jesus. Their example encourages believers to support and respect spiritual mentors, to remain faithful in difficult times, and to bring sorrows and challenges to Christ in prayer. The cost of discipleship is real, but so is the comfort of bringing every circumstance to Jesus.

Reflection

Matthew 14:12 underscores the faithfulness of John’s disciples, the cost of discipleship, and the importance of open communication with Jesus. It prompts readers to consider their own commitment to Christ and their willingness to trust Him in all circumstances.