What Happened to Capernaum?
In Matthew 11:23, Jesus warned Capernaum, saying, “And shall you, Capernaum, be lifted to the heavens? No, you will go down to Hades. For if the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Sodom, it would have remained to this day.” Jesus performed many miracles in Capernaum, but there were still people who did not believe in him.
Jesus compared the people of Capernaum to those in Sodom, one of the most sinful places mentioned in the Bible. The people of Capernaum had the added offense of rejecting Jesus when he resided and walked among them. If the same miracles had been performed in Sodom, the people would have repented, saving the city. But Capernaum continued to reject Jesus and therefore faced condemnation.
Today, when tourists enter modern-day Capernaum, they are greeted by a sign that reads “Capharnaum, the town of Jesus.” While Jesus grew up in Nazareth, he spent much of his three years of ministry in Capernaum. There he taught people in homes and synagogues, spreading the revolutionary ideas of his message. He healed the sick and cast out demons, demonstrating his mighty power. The Bible documents many of these events, giving insight into the miraculous days Jesus lived on earth and resided in this ancient city.
Nevertheless, there remained many in Capernaum who didn’t give Jesus a second thought. Cities far more wicked than Capernaum would have repented if given the same opportunity.
Woe to Capernaum was all Jesus had to say.