Matthew 14:1-21 is often divided into two pericopes but it seems they are actually two parallel accounts of two kings of the Jews.
In verses 1-12 with Herod Antipas (the usurping King of the Jews) entertaining guests who are "reclining" at his table. The end of the section ends with Herod (who has great visible wealth to be wasted) "serving" up one of his own subjects, John the Baptist's, head upon a platter.
In verses 13-21 we have Jesus, the true King of the Jews entertaining his 5000+ guests/subjects who "recline" on the grass. From Jesus' seeming poverty he "serves" his subjects a meal nearly ex nihilo from a few scraps.
So, we have two kings who are true to their natures. One serves a feast of death of his subjects. The other serves a feast of life to his subjects.
Excellent observation. I just finished writing a sermon on this text, and was using this same contrast between kings. Out of curiosity I was searching for others who may have noticed it. Your comment and a sermon by Daniel Doriani are all I have found.
Grace to you!
Posted by: JMC | May 09, 2009 at 04:50 AM