Settling in Capernaum

Leaving Nazareth, Jesus went and lived in Capernaum, which is by the sea in the region of Zebulun and Naphtali, to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah:

“Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles—the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death, a light has dawned.”

This recalls the larger passage in the Book of Isaiah:

"Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those in distress. In the past, He humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future, He will honor the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations:

"The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death, a light has dawned. You have enlarged the nation

and increased its joy. The people rejoice before You as they rejoice at harvest time, as men rejoice in dividing the plunder.

"For as in the day of Midian, You have shattered the yoke of their burden, the bar across their shoulders, and the rod of their oppressor. For every trampling boot of battle and every garment rolled in blood will be burned as fuel for the fire.

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government will be upon His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,

Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish and sustain it

with justice and righteousness from that time and forevermore.

"The zeal of the Lord God of Hosts will accomplish this."

(See Isaiah 9:1-7; Matthew 4:13-16)

-