Matthew 16:5

The Leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees

5 When they crossed to the other side, the disciples forgot to take bread. ¹

Matthew 16:5 Meaning and Commentary

Matthew 16:5

When his disciples were come to the other side
Of the sea, as Munster's Hebrew Gospel adds, to Bethsaida, ( Mark 8:22 ) as they were either in the ship, or going from the shore to the said place, they recollected themselves,

that they had forgotten to take bread:
having but one loaf, as Mark says, in the ship; the seven baskets of fragments being either expended, or given away to the poor, of their own accord, or by Christ's orders. It seems, it was usual with the disciples to buy food at places most proper, and carry with them; since Christ often went into deserts and mountainous places, where provisions could not be had. This their forgetfulness to act according to their wonted method, might arise either from their being intent upon Christ's conversation with the Pharisees, and Sadducees, or from the suddenness of Christ's departure.

Matthew 16:5 In-Context

3 and in the morning, ‘Today it will be stormy, for the sky is red and overcast.’ You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but not the signs of the times.

4 A wicked and adulterous generation demands a sign, but none will be given it except the sign of Jonah.” Then He left them and went away.

5 When they crossed to the other side, the disciples forgot to take bread.

6 “Watch out!” Jesus told them. “Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.”

7 They discussed this among themselves and concluded, “It is because we did not bring any bread.”

Cross References

• 1. (Mark 8:14–21; Luke 12:1–3)