And great crowds gathered about him, so that he got into a boat and sat down. And the whole crowd stood on the beach.
Matthew 13:2. And great multitudes were gathered together to him. It is not without good reason that the Evangelists begin with informing us that, a vast multitude had assembled, and that when Christ beheld them, he was led to compare his doctrine to seed That multitude had been collected from various places: all were held in suspense; all were alike eager to hear, but not equally desirous to receive instruction.
Christ preached both morning and afternoon the same day, unwearied in doing good. Though His enemies opposed and interrupted Him before, the afternoon brought no such discouragements. Resist difficulties in God's service, and they will flee. The poor receive the Gospel where the pomp of religion is least.
AI summary
Commenting on Matthew 13:1-23
And great multitudes were gathered unto him,.... Some on one account, and some on another; some to see his person, others his miracles; some healing for their bodies, and others for their souls; some for the loaves, and others to hear him preach; and of these there were several sorts, as the following parable shows.