Matthew 9:24 – “He said, ‘Go away. The girl is not dead but asleep.’ But they laughed at him.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Jesus speaks directly to the noisy crowd of mourners gathered at Jairus’ house. Their professional wailing reflects the common assumption that the girl’s death is final. Jesus, however, declares that she is not dead but asleep, using “asleep” as a metaphor for death to convey that her condition is temporary and within His power to reverse.
The crowd’s laughter reveals their unbelief. They see the situation as hopeless, unaware of who Jesus truly is and the power He possesses. Their mocking response highlights the gap between human understanding and God’s ability to intervene in impossible circumstances.
Historical Context
In Jewish culture, mourning practices began immediately after death and included hiring professional mourners to wail and play instruments. This scene underscores the finality of death in their minds—once the mourning had begun, the possibility of life was no longer considered.
The idea of referring to death as “sleep” is found elsewhere in Scripture (e.g., Daniel 12:2, John 11:11-14). It reflects a biblical perspective that death is not the end but a temporary state for those who are under God’s care. Jesus uses this language to shift the focus from despair to hope, foreshadowing His miraculous act.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights Jesus’ authority over death. His statement that the girl is “asleep” emphasizes that death is not beyond His control. For Jesus, death is as reversible as waking someone from sleep, demonstrating His power as the giver of life.
It also shows the challenge of faith in the face of skepticism. The crowd’s laughter contrasts sharply with Jairus’ faith, reminding us that trust in Jesus often requires believing in what seems impossible by human standards.
Literary Analysis
Matthew 9:24 creates tension by juxtaposing Jesus’ calm authority with the crowd’s mocking disbelief. His declaration is bold and unexpected, setting up the miracle that follows. The laughter of the crowd serves to heighten the impact of the eventual resurrection, as it emphasizes the contrast between human doubt and divine power.
The metaphor of sleep is particularly significant, as it introduces a perspective on death that is rooted in hope and restoration. This theme runs throughout the Gospels and points to the ultimate victory Jesus will achieve over death.
Biblical Cross-References
- John 11:11-14 – Jesus refers to Lazarus’ death as sleep before raising him from the dead.
- 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 – Paul describes believers who have died as being “asleep,” reflecting the hope of resurrection.
- Mark 5:39 – A parallel account where Jesus uses the same metaphor of sleep.
- Daniel 12:2 – A prophecy describing the resurrection of the dead, using the language of waking from sleep.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a powerful reminder that Jesus has authority over even the most hopeless situations. His ability to raise the dead shows that nothing is beyond His power. When we face challenges that seem final or impossible, we can trust that Jesus has the last word.
It also challenges us to examine our own faith. Are we like Jairus, believing in Jesus’ power even in desperate circumstances, or like the crowd, quick to doubt and mock? This verse encourages us to trust Jesus, even when His words or actions defy our understanding.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in Jesus’ response to the mourners. Despite their disbelief and mockery, He doesn’t waver in His mission to bring life and hope. His statement that the girl is “asleep” reflects God’s perspective on death—not as a permanent separation but as something He has the power to overcome.
This verse also shows God’s desire to bring restoration and joy to His people. By stepping into Jairus’ home, Jesus demonstrates God’s willingness to meet us in our grief and transform it into hope.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse highlights Jesus’ identity as the one who has power over life and death. By declaring the girl “not dead but asleep,” He foreshadows His ultimate victory over death through His resurrection. Jesus’ actions here are a glimpse of the eternal life He offers to all who believe in Him (John 11:25-26).
It also shows Jesus’ role as a compassionate Savior who brings hope into the midst of despair. His calm assurance in the face of death reflects His confidence in His divine authority.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Jesus’ perspective on death as “sleep” challenge the way you view life and death?
- Are there situations in your life that feel hopeless or final? How can you trust Jesus to bring restoration?
- How does the crowd’s laughter contrast with Jairus’ faith? Which do you relate to more in your walk with Jesus?
- What does this verse teach you about God’s power and willingness to act in impossible circumstances?
- How can you encourage others to trust in Jesus’ authority and hope, even when they face doubt or despair?