Albert Barnes Commentary Matthew 17:14

"And when they were come to the multitude, there came to him a man, kneeling to him, saying," — Matthew 17:14 (ASV)

And when they were come to the multitude. This took place on the day following the transfiguration (Luke 9:37). This multitude was probably composed of persons who had attended his ministry, and many of whom were his real disciples. With them, as Mark 9:14 informs us, were scribes questioning with them.

That is, they were probably professedly making inquiries about the Saviour, but really attempting to introduce their own sentiments and to draw them away from him. They probably artfully asked them many questions about his birth, his family, his appearance, his manner of life, and his instructions, all of which were contrary to the general expectation respecting the Messiah; and they intended, therefore, to insinuate that such a person could not be the Christ.

The people were persuaded of it, and it would not have been prudent to attack their opinions openly; instead, they attempted to gain the same point by sly insinuations. Error is always subtle and often puts on the appearance of calm and honest inquiry. He had aptly compared them to leaven (Matthew 16:11–12).

The multitude, seeing Jesus coming down, left the scribes and ran to meet him, as Mark records. They were amazed, probably because they had not expected to see him there. In their joy at meeting him in this unexpected manner, they saluted him (according to Mark); that is, they probably prostrated themselves before him, in the manner of salutation in Eastern countries.

Jesus, seeing the scribes and their artful design, reproved them by asking them why they questioned his disciples in this way (Mark 9:16). Conscious of their guilt and their base purpose, they returned no answer.

A certain man kneeling down to him. That is, saluting him or showing high regard for him.

It did not imply religious homage, but merely high respect and earnest entreaty.