Matthew 9:26

And the fame hereof went abroad into all that land.

Matthew 9:26 (KJV)

Context

Matthew 9:26 concludes the account of two miracles performed by Jesus. In Matthew 9:18-26, a ruler came to Jesus, fell at His feet, and asked Him to come and lay His hand on his daughter, who had just died, so that she might live again. Jesus agreed and went to the ruler’s house, accompanied by His disciples.

On the way, a woman who had suffered from a discharge of blood for twelve years approached Jesus from behind and touched the fringe of His garment, believing that she would be healed. Jesus, perceiving her faith, turned and told her that her faith had made her well, and she was healed from that moment.

Jesus and His disciples continued to the ruler’s house, where they found a crowd mourning and wailing loudly. Jesus told them the girl was not dead but sleeping, and they ridiculed Him. After the crowd was put out, Jesus took the girl by the hand, and she arose.

Meaning

The Greek word translated as “fame” can also mean “report” or “news.” The verse states that this report went abroad into all that land, indicating that news of these miracles spread throughout the region. The healing of the woman and the raising of the girl would have created a stir and increased curiosity about Jesus among the people.

This verse highlights the inevitable public nature of Jesus’ miracles. Even though Jesus later charged the parents to tell no one, as recorded in Mark 5:43, the witnesses—relatives and neighbors—knew what had happened, making concealment impossible. The news of His power could not be contained.

Biblical connections

Similar patterns appear elsewhere in the Gospels. Mark 1:28 describes Jesus’ fame spreading throughout Galilee after He healed in Capernaum, showing a consistent pattern of His reputation expanding. Matthew 9:31 records that two blind men, after being healed, spread Jesus’ fame throughout all that land, despite His charge to tell no one. These instances demonstrate that the news of Jesus’ power could not be hidden.

Application

This verse reminds us of the powerful impact of Jesus’ works and teachings. His miracles were not only acts of compassion for individuals but also opportunities for others to witness His divine power and come to believe in Him. As followers of Jesus, we are called to share the good news of His works and teachings with others. Through our words and actions, we have the opportunity to testify to the transformative power of Christ in our lives and draw others closer to Him.

Reflection

Matthew 9:26 encourages us to consider how the news of Jesus’ miracles spread throughout the land, and how we, too, can be part of spreading that news today. The fame of Jesus went abroad not only because of the miracles themselves but also because of the testimony of those who witnessed them. Our lives, likewise, can be a testimony that points others to Jesus.