About Mark

Mark presents Jesus as the suffering Servant of God, emphasizing His actions and authority.

Author: John MarkWritten: c. AD 50-65Reading time: ~6 minVerses: 45
ServantActionAuthoritySufferingDiscipleshipMessianic Secret

King James Version

Mark 1

45 verses with commentary

John the Baptist Prepares the Way

The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God;

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KJV Study Commentary

Mark's opening verse serves as the Gospel's thesis statement, declaring Jesus' identity and mission with theological precision. The phrase "the beginning" (ἀρχὴ, archē) echoes Genesis 1:1 and John 1:1, situating Jesus' ministry within God's eternal creative and redemptive purposes. "Gospel" (εὐαγγέλιον, euangelion) means "good news"—a term used for imperial proclamations announcing victories or a ...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(1) **The beginning of the gospel.**—The opening words are interesting as presenting a transition stage in the history of the word Gospel, between its earlier sense, as meaning generally the “good news” of the kingdom of God (Mark 1:14; Matthew 4:23; Matthew 9:35), and the later sense, as a book recording the main facts in our Lord’s life and work. In 1Corinthians 15:1, 2Timothy 2:8, where it clea...
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As it is written in the prophets, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee.

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KJV Study Commentary

Mark begins his Gospel not with Jesus' birth but with Old Testament prophecy, establishing that Jesus' ministry fulfills God's eternal redemptive plan. The phrase 'As it is written in the prophets' (καθὼς γέγραπται) appeals to scriptural authority—Mark combines Malachi 3:1 and Isaiah 40:3, showing their unified fulfillment in Christ. The messenger 'before thy face' identifies John the Baptist as t...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(2) **In the prophets.**—The better MSS. give the more accurate reference, “in Esaias the prophet.” On general grounds, however, it seems more probable that the general reference should have been specialised by a transcriber than the reverse. With one exception, and that very doubtful as to its genuineness (see Note on Mark 15:28), this is the only quotation from a prophet made by the Evangelist h...
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The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.

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KJV Study Commentary

Mark quotes Isaiah 40:3, applying this prophecy of Israel's return from Babylonian exile to John's ministry. The 'voice crying in the wilderness' (φωνὴ βοῶντος ἐν τῇ ἐρήμῳ) identifies John as the prophetic herald Isaiah foretold. The wilderness (erēmos) recalls Israel's formative experience after Egyptian exodus—John's wilderness ministry symbolizes a new exodus and preparation for God's kingdom. ...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(3) **The voice of one crying in the wilderness.**—See Note on Matthew 3:3.

John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. for: or, unto

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KJV Study Commentary

John 'was baptizing in the wilderness' (ἐγένετο βαπτίζων ἐν τῇ ἐρήμῳ)—the imperfect tense indicates ongoing ministry over time. The wilderness location symbolizes return to Israel's origins, calling Israel to covenant faithfulness. He preached 'baptism of repentance for remission of sins' (βάπτισμα μετανοίας εἰς ἄφεσιν ἁμαρτιῶν). Baptisma signifies ritual washing—immersion symbolizing cleansing. M...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(4) **John did baptize.**—No other Gospel passes so abruptly, so *in medias res,* into the actual work of the Forerunner. There is no account of the birth or infancy of our Lord, as in St. Matthew and St. Luke; none of the pre-existence of the Son of Man, as in St. John. St. Mark is here, as elsewhere, emphatically the Evangelist of action. (On the rest of the verse, see Notes on Matthew 3:1.) The...
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And there went out unto him all the land of Judaea, and they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins.

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KJV Study Commentary

This verse describes the massive response to John's ministry: 'all the land of Judaea, and they of Jerusalem' (πᾶσα ἡ Ἰουδαία χώρα καὶ οἱ Ἱεροσολυμῖται πάντες) came to him. The hyperbole emphasizes widespread impact—John's prophetic message drew people from across Judea. They 'were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins' (ἐβαπτίζοντο ὑπ' αὐτοῦ ἐν τῷ Ἰορδάνῃ ποταμῷ ἐξομολ...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(5) **There went out unto him**. . . .—See Note on Matthew 3:5. Note St. Mark’s use of the term “in the river of Jordan,” as writing for those who were not familiar with the topography of Palestine.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**61. And there was Mary Magdalene, and the other Mary--**"the mother of James and Joses," mentioned before (Mt 27:56). **sitting over against the sepulchre--**(See on Mr 16:1). The Sepulchre Guarded (Mt 27:62-66).

And John was clothed with camel's hair, and with a girdle of a skin about his loins; and he did eat locusts and wild honey;

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KJV Study Commentary

Mark describes John's appearance and diet, echoing Elijah's description in 2 Kings 1:8. John 'was clothed with camel's hair, and with a girdle of skin about his loins' (ἦν ἐνδεδυμένος τρίχας καμήλου καὶ ζώνην δερματίνην)—the rough garment signaled prophetic identity and separation from society's comforts. His diet of 'locusts and wild honey' (ἀκρίδας καὶ μέλι ἄγριον) indicated ascetic lifestyle an...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(6) **And John was clothed**. . . .—See Note on Matthew 3:4.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**62. Now the next day, that followed the day of the preparation--**that is, after six o'clock of our Saturday evening. The crucifixion took place on the Friday and all was not over till shortly before sunset, when the Jewish sabbath commenced; and "that sabbath day was an high day" (Joh 19:31), being the first day of the feast of unleavened bread. That day being over at six on Saturday evening, t...
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And preached, saying, There cometh one mightier than I after me, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to stoop down and unloose.

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KJV Study Commentary

John's proclamation points beyond himself to the Coming One: 'There cometh one mightier than I after me' (Ἔρχεται ὁ ἰσχυρότερός μου ὀπίσω μου). The comparative 'mightier' (ischyroteros) acknowledges Jesus' superior authority and power. 'The latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to stoop down and unloose' (οὗ οὐκ εἰμὶ ἱκανὸς κύψας λῦσαι τὸν ἱμάντα τῶν ὑποδημάτων αὐτοῦ) expresses profound humility—...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(7) **There cometh one mightier than I.**—See Note on Matthew 3:11; but note the slight difference—not, as there, “whose shoes I am not worthy to bear,” but “the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to *stoop down and unloose.*” Latchet,” a word now obsolete, was the “thong” or “lace” with which shoes or sandals were fastened. To stoop down and loosen the sandals was commonly the act of the serv...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**63. Saying, Sir, we remember that that deceiver--**Never, remarks Bengel, will you find the heads of the people calling Jesus by His own name. And yet here there is betrayed a certain uneasiness, which one almost fancies they only tried to stifle in their own minds, as well as crush in Pilate's, in case he should have any lurking suspicion that he had done wrong in yielding to them. **said, wh...
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I indeed have baptized you with water: but he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost.

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KJV Study Commentary

John contrasts his baptism with Christ's: 'I indeed have baptized you with water: but he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost' (Ἐγὼ ἐβάπτισα ὑμᾶς ὕδατι, αὐτὸς δὲ βαπτίσει ὑμᾶς ἐν Πνεύματι Ἁγίῳ). The pronoun contrast (I/he) emphasizes the qualitative difference. John's water baptism symbolized cleansing and repentance, but Christ's Spirit baptism accomplishes actual regeneration and transformation...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(8) **I indeed have baptized you with water.**—See Note on Matthew 3:11. St. Mark omits the “fire” which St. Matthew joins with the Holy Ghost, possibly as less intelligible to his Gentile readers.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**64. Command therefore that the sepulchre be made sure--**by a Roman guard. **until the third day--**after which, if He still lay in the grave, the imposture of His claims would be manifest to all. **and say unto the people, he is risen from the dead--**Did they really fear this? **so the last error shall be worse than the first--**the imposture of His pretended resurrection worse than that...
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The Baptism of Jesus

And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan.

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KJV Study Commentary

This verse records Jesus' baptism: 'Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan' (ἦλθεν Ἰησοῦς ἀπὸ Ναζαρὲτ τῆς Γαλιλαίας καὶ ἐβαπτίσθη εἰς τὸν Ἰορδάνην ὑπὸ Ἰωάννου). The passive voice 'was baptized' indicates Jesus submitted to John's baptism, though He had no sin to repent of. Matthew 3:13-15 records that Jesus insisted on baptism to 'fulfill all righteousness'—identif...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(9) **And it came to pass.**—See Note on Matthew 3:13. St. Mark adds “from Nazareth” to St. Matthew’s more general statement, “from Galilee.”

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**65. Pilate said unto them, Ye have a watch--**The guards had already acted under orders of the Sanhedrim, with Pilate's consent; but probably they were not clear about employing them as a night watch without Pilate's express authority. **go your way, make it as sure as ye can--**as ye know how, or in the way ye deem securest. Though there may be no irony in this speech, it evidently insinuated...
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And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him: opened: or, cloven, or, rent

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KJV Study Commentary

Mark describes the baptismal theophany: 'straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him' (εὐθὺς ἀναβαίνων ἐκ τοῦ ὕδατος εἶδεν σχιζομένους τοὺς οὐρανοὺς καὶ τὸ Πνεῦμα ὡς περιστερὰν καταβαῖνον εἰς αὐτόν). The verb 'opened' (schizomenous, σχιζομένους) means 'torn apart' or 'ripped open'—violent imagery recalling Isaiah 64:1 where the ...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(10) **He saw the heavens opened.**—Better, **as** in the margin, *rent open,* St. Mark’s language here, as elsewhere, being more boldly vivid than that of the other Gospels. (See Notes on Matthew 3:16-17.)

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**66. So they went, and made the sepulchre sure, sealing the stone--**which Mark (Mr 16:4) says was "very great." **and setting a watch--**to guard it. What more could man do? But while they are trying to prevent the resurrection of the Prince of Life, God makes use of their precautions for His own ends. Their stone-covered, seal-secured sepulchre shall preserve the sleeping dust of the Son of G...
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And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

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KJV Study Commentary

This divine voice from heaven at Jesus' baptism reveals profound Trinitarian and messianic theology. The Father speaks audibly, the Son is baptized in human form, and the Spirit descends as a dove (v. 10)—an early revelation of the Trinity. The phrase "my beloved Son" (ὁ υἱός μου ὁ ἀγαπητός, ho huios mou ho agapētos) echoes Psalm 2:7, a messianic coronation psalm declaring the king's divine sonshi...
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And immediately the Spirit driveth him into the wilderness.

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KJV Study Commentary

The phrase 'immediately the Spirit driveth him' (εὐθὺς τὸ Πνεῦμα αὐτὸν ἐκβάλλει, euthys to Pneuma auton ekballei) uses violent imagery—'driveth' (ekballei) means to cast out or expel forcefully, the same verb used for exorcising demons. This demonstrates that Jesus' wilderness testing wasn't accidental but divinely ordained. The Spirit who just descended upon Jesus at baptism now compels Him into ...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(12) **Immediately the spirit driveth him.**—See Notes on Matthew 4:1; but note also St. Mark’s characteristic “immediately,” and the stronger word “driveth him.”

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

CHAPTER 28 Mt 28:1-15. Glorious Angelic Announcement on the First Day of the Week, that Christ Is Risen--His Appearance to the Women--The Guards Bribed to Give a False Account of the Resurrection. ( = Mr 16:1-8; Lu 24:1-8; Joh 20:1). The Resurrection Announced to the Women (Mt 28:1-8). **1. In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn--**after the Sabbath, as it grew toward daylight. **tow...
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And he was there in the wilderness forty days, tempted of Satan; and was with the wild beasts; and the angels ministered unto him.

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KJV Study Commentary

Mark's account states Jesus 'was in the wilderness forty days, tempted of Satan'. The forty days parallel Moses' forty days on Sinai, Elijah's journey to Horeb, and Israel's forty years—Jesus fulfills these typologies. 'And was with the wild beasts' evokes both danger and Edenic harmony. 'And the angels ministered unto him' indicates divine provision. Where Adam fell in paradise, Christ prevails i...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(13) **And he was there in the wilderness.**—See Notes on Matthew 4:2-11. St. Mark compresses the history by omitting the several forms of the Temptation. Peculiar to him are (1) the use of “Satan” instead of “the devil;” (2) the statement that Jesus was “with the wild beasts.” In our Lord’s time these might include the panther, the bear, the wolf, the hyena, possibly the lion. The implied thought...
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Jesus Begins His Ministry in Galilee

Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God,

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KJV Study Commentary

This verse marks a crucial transition after John's imprisonment. The verb paradothēnai ('delivered up') foreshadows Jesus' fate. Herod imprisoned John for condemning adultery (Mark 6:17-18), showing how truth-telling brings persecution. Jesus moved to Galilee fulfilling Isaiah 9:1-2—light dawning in darkness. 'Preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God' introduces Jesus' core message: God's kingdo...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(14) **Now after that John was put in prison.**—St. Mark agrees with St. Matthew in omitting all our Lord’s early ministry in Galilee and Jerusalem, and takes the imprisonment of the Baptist as his starting-point. That imprisonment is assumed here to be known; but the facts connected with it are not related till Mark 6:17-20.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**3. His countenance--**appearance. **was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow--**the one expressing the glory, the other the purity of the celestial abode from which he came.

And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.

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KJV Study Commentary

This verse summarizes Jesus' core message and contains four essential gospel elements. "The time is fulfilled" (πεπλήρωται ὁ καιρός, peplērōtai ho kairos) declares that God's appointed time (kairos—the opportune moment, not merely chronological time) has arrived. The perfect tense indicates completed action with ongoing results—redemptive history has reached its decisive moment in Jesus' coming. "...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(15) **The time is fulfilled.**—The words are not found in the parallel passages of the other Gospels, and are interesting as embodying the same thought as St. Paul’s “in the fulness of time” (Galatians 4:4; Ephesians 1:10). So, too, St. Mark adds “believe the gospel” to the simple “repent” of St. Matthew, and gives “the kingdom of God” instead of “the kingdom of heaven.”

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**4. And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men--**Is the sepulchre "sure" now, O ye chief priests? He that sitteth in the heavens doth laugh at you.

Jesus Calls the First Disciples

Now as he walked by the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew his brother casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers.

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KJV Study Commentary

As he walked by the sea, he saw Simon and Andrew casting a net. Jesus deliberately sought working-class men, not religious elite. The Sea of Galilee was central to economic life. Jesus found them at ordinary labor demonstrating God sovereign initiative. The setting foreshadows fishers of men. Reformed theology emphasizes God sovereign effectual calling—Jesus chooses His disciples (John 15:16). Thi...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(16) **As he walked by the sea of Galilee.**—See Notes on Matthew 4:18-22. St. Mark names Simon without the addition of Peter.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**5. And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye--**The "ye" here is emphatic, to contrast their case with that of the guards. "Let those puny creatures, sent to keep the Living One among the dead, for fear of Me shake and become as dead men (Mt 28:4); but ye that have come hither on another errand, fear not ye." **for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified--**Jesus the C...
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And Jesus said unto them, Come ye after me, and I will make you to become fishers of men.

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KJV Study Commentary

Come ye after me, and I will make you fishers of men. The imperative Come demands response. After me indicates discipleship. I will make you demonstrates Jesus transforms followers progressively. Fishers of men employs occupational knowledge for kingdom purposes. This has Old Testament background (Jeremiah 16:16) but here is redemptive—catching people for salvation. The call implies mission throug...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**6. He is not here; for he is risen, as he said--**See on Lu 24:5-7. **Come--**as in Mt 11:28. **see the place where the Lord lay--**Charming invitation! "Come, see the spot where the Lord of glory lay: now it is an empty grave: He lies not here, but He lay there. Come, feast your eyes on it!" But see on Joh 20:12.

And straightway they forsook their nets, and followed him.

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KJV Study Commentary

Straightway they forsook nets and followed. Forsook means abandon release. They left everything at Jesus word. Nets represented livelihood security identity. Followed becomes technical for discipleship committing to Lord. Radical obedience illustrates saving faith wholehearted surrender. Reformed theology emphasizes true conversion produces transformation in reprioritization and sacrificing earthl...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**7. And go quickly, and tell his disciples--**For a precious addition to this, see on Mr 16:7. **that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee--**to which those women belonged (Mt 27:55). **there shall ye see him--**This must refer to those more public manifestations of Himself to large numbers of disciples at once, which He vouchsafed only in Galilee; for indi...
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And when he had gone a little further thence, he saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who also were in the ship mending their nets.

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KJV Study Commentary

John preached There cometh one mightier. Imperfect preached indicates continuous proclamation. Message consistently pointed to Coming One. Mightier acknowledges Jesus superior authority. John recognized preparatory ministry eclipsed by Messiah work. True ministers point to Christ never seeking glory. John embodied He must increase I decrease. Reformed theology emphasizes ministry exists to glorify...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**8. And they departed quickly--**Mark (Mr 16:8) says "they fled." **from the sepulchre with fear and great joy--**How natural this combination of feelings! See on a similar statement of Mr 16:11. **and did run to bring his disciples word--**"Neither said they anything to any man [by the way]; for they were afraid" (Mr 16:8). Appearance to the Women (Mt 28:9, 10). This appearance is reco...
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And straightway he called them: and they left their father Zebedee in the ship with the hired servants, and went after him.

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KJV Study Commentary

He saw James and John mending nets. Immediately after calling Peter Andrew Jesus continues building apostolic team. Detail mending nets indicates responsible businessmen maintaining equipment. The verb means restore repair prepare same word spiritual restoration. Jesus calls people in daily life not special spiritual moments. James John were partners with Peter Andrew suggesting prosperous coopera...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(20) **With the hired servants.**—Peculiar to this Gospel, and of some interest as throwing light on the relative social position of the sons of Zebedee.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**9. And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail!--**the usual salute, but from the lips of Jesus bearing a higher signification. **And they came and held him by the feet--**How truly womanly!

Jesus Drives Out an Unclean Spirit

And they went into Capernaum; and straightway on the sabbath day he entered into the synagogue, and taught.

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KJV Study Commentary

They went into Capernaum and straightway on sabbath he entered synagogue and taught. Capernaum becomes Jesus ministry headquarters base for Galilean work. Straightway emphasizes immediate action Jesus wasted no time beginning public ministry. Entering synagogue on sabbath shows Jesus respect for Jewish institutions despite conflict with religious leaders. He taught indicates authoritative instruct...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(21) **And they went into Capernaum.**—Here St. Mark’s narrative ceases to run parallel with that of St. Matthew, and agrees almost verbally with Luke 4:31-37. **Straightway.**—The frequent recurrence of this adverb, often disguised in the English version as “immediately,” “anon,” “by-and-by,” should be noticed as we proceed. It occurs forty-one times in the Gospel; nine times in this first chapte...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**10. Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid--**What dear associations would these familiar words--now uttered in a higher style, but by the same Lips--bring rushing back to their recollection! **go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me--**The brethren here meant must have been His brethren after the flesh (compare Mt 13:55); for His brethren in the higher sen...
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And they were astonished at his doctrine: for he taught them as one that had authority, and not as the scribes.

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KJV Study Commentary

They were astonished at his doctrine for he taught as one with authority not as scribes. Astonished indicates overwhelming amazement shock. His doctrine teaching content and method. Authority exousia means inherent right to speak and act. Jesus taught with divine authority derived from His identity as God Son not from human credentials or rabbinic tradition. Scribes taught by citing previous rabbi...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(22) **And they were astonished.**—The verbal agreement with Matthew 7:28 (where see Note) suggests the thought that St. Mark had heard or read that passage. For “doctrine” read *teaching.* Stress is laid, as in Matthew 7:28, on the manner rather than the thing taught.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**11. Now when they were going--**while the women were on their way to deliver to His brethren the message of their risen Lord. **some of the watch came into the city, and showed unto the chief priests all the things that were done--**Simple, unsophisticated soldiers! How could ye imagine that such a tale as ye had to tell would not at once commend itself to your scared employers? Had they doubt...
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And there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit; and he cried out,

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KJV Study Commentary

In synagogue was man with unclean spirit who cried out. First exorcism in Mark demonstrates Jesus authority over spiritual realm. Unclean spirit demon possessing man rendering him ceremonially and morally defiled. The demon cried out recognizing Jesus threatened demonic kingdom. Synagogue setting dramatic demonic presence in religious space shows spiritual darkness can exist alongside religious ac...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(23) **An unclean spirit.**—The phrase occurs in all the first three Gospels (not in St. John’s), but with special frequency in this. As in most Eastern cities, in both ancient and modern times, madness had an immunity from restraint, and the demoniacs seem to have mingled, if they chose, with the crowd of worshippers in the synagogue.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**12. And when they were assembled with the elders--**But Joseph at least was absent: Gamaliel probably also; and perhaps others. **and had taken counsel, they gave large money unto the soldiers--**It would need a good deal; but the whole case of the Jewish authorities was now at stake. With what contempt must these soldiers have regarded the Jewish ecclesiastics!

Saying, Let us alone; what have we to do with thee, thou Jesus of Nazareth? art thou come to destroy us? I know thee who thou art, the Holy One of God.

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KJV Study Commentary

Let us alone what have we to do with thee Jesus of Nazareth art thou come to destroy us I know thee who thou art the Holy One of God. Demons address Jesus acknowledging His identity. Let us alone reveals demons desire to avoid Jesus they recognize His threat. What have we to do with thee indicates no common ground between holy and unholy. Art thou come to destroy us shows demons know their ultimat...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(24) **What have we to do with** thee?—The cry is identical with that of the Gadarene demoniacs (Matthew 8:29). Here, as there, the possessed man has a preternatural intuition of our Lord’s greatness. **The Holy One of God.**—The name occurs, as applied to Christ, only here, in the parallel passage of Luke 4:34, and in the better MSS. of John 6:69. It probably had its origin in the Messianic appli...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**13. Saying, Say ye, His disciples came by night, and stole him away while we slept--**which, as we have observed, was a capital offense for soldiers on guard.

And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and come out of him.

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus rebuked him saying Hold thy peace and come out of him. Jesus rebuked epitimaō strong command showing authority. Hold thy peace literally be muzzled silenced. Jesus refuses demon testimony despite its accuracy. He does not want or need demonic witness to His identity. Come out of him authoritative expulsion command. Jesus word alone sufficient no rituals formulas needed. This demonstrates His...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(25) **Hold thy** **peace.**—Literally, *be still, be gagged.* The same verb is used in the calming of the winds and waves in Mark 4:39.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**14. And if this come to the governor's ears--**rather, "If this come before the governor"; that is, not in the way of mere report, but for judicial investigation. **we will persuade him, and secure you--**The "we" and the "you" are emphatic here--"we shall [take care to] persuade him and keep you from trouble," or "save you harmless." The grammatical form of this clause implies that the thing ...
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And when the unclean spirit had torn him, and cried with a loud voice, he came out of him.

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KJV Study Commentary

When unclean spirit torn him cried with loud voice he came out. Torn sparassō indicates violent convulsion final desperate act of malice. Demon causes physical harm during expulsion showing demonic hatred for humans. Cried with loud voice demon protests expulsion. He came out demon obeys Jesus command despite resistance. Man freed from bondage that held him. Physical manifestations accompanied spi...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(26) **He** **came out of** **him.**—St. Luke adds the fact “and hurt him not.”

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**15. So they took the money, and did as they were taught--**thus consenting to brand themselves with infamy. **and this saying is commonly reported among the Jews until this day--**to the date of the publication of this Gospel. The wonder is that so clumsy and incredible a story lasted so long. But those who are resolved not to come to the light will catch at straws. Justin Martyr, who flourish...
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And they were all amazed, insomuch that they questioned among themselves, saying, What thing is this? what new doctrine is this? for with authority commandeth he even the unclean spirits, and they do obey him.

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KJV Study Commentary

They were all amazed saying What thing is this what new doctrine is this for with authority commandeth he even unclean spirits and they obey. Amazed indicates shock wonder. What thing is this questioning unprecedented event. New doctrine teaching didachē refers to both content and demonstration of authority. Jesus teaching validated by power. With authority exousia emphasizes Jesus inherent right ...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(27) **What new doctrine is this?**—A various-reading gives a different structure, “What thing is this? A new doctrine with power. He commandeth even the unclean spirits . . .” “Doctrine” is, as elsewhere, the teaching taken as a whole, including manner as well as substance.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

Mt 28:16-20. Jesus Meets with the Disciples on a Mountain in Galilee and Gives Forth the Great Commission. **16. Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee--**but certainly not before the second week after the resurrection, and probably somewhat later. **into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them--**It should have been rendered "the mountain," meaning some certain mountain which He ha...
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And immediately his fame spread abroad throughout all the region round about Galilee.

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KJV Study Commentary

Mark's characteristic 'immediately' (Greek: euthys) appears forty-one times in his Gospel, emphasizing the rapid spread of Christ's fame following His authoritative teaching and exorcism. This demonstrates the sovereignty of God in drawing people to witness Christ's ministry, fulfilling the divine timetable for revelation. The geographical spread throughout Galilee prepared hearts for the gospel m...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**17. And when they saw him, they worshipped him; but some doubted--**certainly none of "the Eleven," after what took place at previous interviews in Jerusalem. But if the five hundred were now present, we may well believe this of some of them.

Jesus Heals Many

And forthwith, when they were come out of the synagogue, they entered into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John.

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KJV Study Commentary

The transition from synagogue to home reveals Christ's ministry extended to both public and private spheres. Simon Peter's house becomes the setting for a miracle, demonstrating that no place is secular when Christ is present. The immediacy ('forthwith') shows the disciples' eagerness to bring their needs to Jesus, modeling the boldness believers should have in approaching Him with concerns.

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(29) **And forthwith.**—Again we have St. Mark’s characteristic word, as in the “immediately” of Mark 1:28, and in the “anon” of Mark 1:30. (See Notes on Matthew 8:14-15.)

But Simon's wife's mother lay sick of a fever, and anon they tell him of her.

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KJV Study Commentary

Peter's mother-in-law (confirming Peter's married state, cf. 1 Cor. 9:5) lay sick with fever, demonstrating human frailty even in the household of a chief apostle. The disciples' immediate report to Jesus models proper faith—bringing afflictions directly to Christ rather than attempting self-sufficiency. This sets the stage for demonstrating Christ's healing authority extends to all conditions.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**19. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations--**rather, "make disciples of all nations"; for "teaching," in the more usual sense of that word, comes in afterwards, and is expressed by a different term. **baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost--**It should be, "into the name"; as in 1Co 10:2, "And were all baptized unto (or rather 'into') Moses"; and Ga 3:...
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And he came and took her by the hand, and lifted her up; and immediately the fever left her, and she ministered unto them.

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KJV Study Commentary

Christ's gentle touch and lifting action demonstrates His compassionate approach to healing—not merely speaking from a distance but physically engaging with the afflicted. The fever's immediate departure shows His complete authority over disease. Her instant service illustrates the proper response to divine healing: grateful, energetic ministry to Christ and His disciples. Salvation produces servi...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**20. Teaching them--**This is teaching in the more usual sense of the term; or instructing the converted and baptized disciples. **to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I--**The "I" here is emphatic. It is enough that I **am with you alway--**"all the days"; that is, till making converts, baptizing, and building them up by Christian instruction, shall be no more. *...
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And at even, when the sun did set, they brought unto him all that were diseased, and them that were possessed with devils.

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KJV Study Commentary

The timing—'when the sun did set'—indicates the Sabbath had ended (which began Friday evening), allowing people to carry burdens and travel. This massive gathering demonstrates Christ's growing fame and the desperate hunger for deliverance from physical and spiritual bondage. The bringing of 'all that were diseased' shows comprehensive need and faith that Christ could heal any condition.

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(32) **And at even.**—See Notes on Matthew 8:16-17. The special features in St. Mark are (1) the fuller description, in Mark 1:33, that “all the city was gathered together at the door;” and (2) the omission of St. Matthew’s reference to the prophecy of Isaiah 53:4.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO MARK Commentary by David Brown

And all the city was gathered together at the door.

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KJV Study Commentary

The entire city gathering at the door creates a vivid image of humanity seeking Christ. This prophetically pictures the eschatological gathering of God's people and present spiritual reality—all must come to the door of Christ for entrance into God's kingdom (cf. John 10:9). The passive voice suggests divine orchestration in drawing this multitude.

And he healed many that were sick of divers diseases, and cast out many devils; and suffered not the devils to speak, because they knew him. to speak: or, to say that they knew him

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KJV Study Commentary

Christ healed 'many' (not all who came, emphasizing His sovereign selection) and cast out demons, demonstrating authority over both physical and spiritual realms. His command that demons not speak reveals His rejection of testimony from unholy sources, even when true. Christ will not advance His kingdom through alliance with darkness, showing the absolute separation between light and darkness in s...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(34) **And suffered not the devils to speak.**—St. Luke (Luke 4:41) gives the reason of the prohibition more distinctly. The demoniacs had cried out, “Thou art the Son of God.” They knew that He was the Christ.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

INTRODUCTION **That the Second Gospel was written by Mark is universally agreed, though by what Mark, not so. The great majority of critics take the writer to be "John whose surname was Mark," of whom we read in the Acts, and who was "sister's son to Barnabas" (Col 4:10). But no reason whatever is assigned for this opinion, for which the tradition, though ancient, is not uniform; and one cannot b...
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Jesus Prays and Preaches

And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed.

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KJV Study Commentary

Mark emphasizes Christ's prayer life with precise timing: 'a great while before day,' demonstrating His priority of communion with the Father before ministry activity. Despite exhausting public ministry, Jesus sought solitude ('solitary place') for prayer, modeling the necessity of spiritual disciplines even for the incarnate Son. His humanity required this fellowship, teaching us our absolute dep...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(35) **A great while before day.**—Literally, *very early, while it was yet night.* The note of time is peculiar to St. Mark. Prayer seems to have been sought now, as at other times, after a day of extraordinary and exhausting labour.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**2-3. As it is written in the prophets, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee--**(Mal 3:1; Is 40:3).

And Simon and they that were with him followed after him.

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KJV Study Commentary

Simon and the disciples 'followed after' Jesus (Greek: katediōxan, implying urgent pursuit) to His prayer retreat. While well-intentioned, their interruption reveals human tendency to prioritize ministry activity over communion with God. The contrast between Christ's seeking solitude and the disciples' seeking Him sets up Jesus' teaching about the proper balance of prayer and proclamation in minis...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(36) **Simon and they that were with him.**—This part of the narrative is given by St. Luke also, but not by St. Matthew. The definite statement who they were that followed after Him is, however, peculiar to St. Mark; while St. Luke alone gives their motive: “they stayed Him that He should not depart from them.” They would fain have kept Him at Capernaum, that He might teach them and heal their si...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**2-3. As it is written in the prophets, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee--**(Mal 3:1; Is 40:3).

And when they had found him, they said unto him, All men seek for thee.

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KJV Study Commentary

The disciples' report—'All men seek for thee'—reveals their worldly perspective on success and Christ's mission. They measured ministry effectiveness by crowd size and popularity, missing the deeper purpose of proclaiming repentance. This statement tempted Christ toward a popularity-based ministry, yet He resisted, showing His commitment to the Father's will over human acclaim.

And he said unto them, Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach there also: for therefore came I forth.

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KJV Study Commentary

Christ's response redirects the disciples from consolidating success to expanding proclamation: 'Let us go into the next towns.' His stated purpose—'that I may preach there also'—emphasizes the priority of the preaching ministry over healing ministry. The phrase 'for therefore came I forth' reveals His self-understanding of divine mission. Christ came to preach the kingdom, not merely demonstrate ...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(38) **Let us go into the next towns.**—The word translated “towns” occurs here only. It is a compound word, “village cities,” and seems to have been coined to express the character of such places as Bethsaida, Chorazin, and others on the shore of the Sea of Galilee, which were more than “villages,” yet could hardly be classed as “cities.” **That I may preach there also.**—St. Luke gives more full...
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And he preached in their synagogues throughout all Galilee, and cast out devils.

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KJV Study Commentary

This verse summarizes Christ's Galilean ministry in two parts: preaching in synagogues and casting out devils. The order is significant—proclamation precedes and governs power encounters. His use of existing Jewish religious infrastructure (synagogues) shows redemptive engagement with established institutions rather than wholesale rejection. The casting out of demons demonstrates the kingdom's pow...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(39) **And he preached.**—See Note on Matthew 4:23.

Jesus Cleanses a Leper

And there came a leper to him, beseeching him, and kneeling down to him, and saying unto him, If thou wilt, thou canst make me clean.

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KJV Study Commentary

The leper's approach violates Levitical law (Lev. 13:45-46) requiring isolation, yet his faith overrides legal caution. His posture—'kneeling down'—demonstrates worship and recognition of Christ's authority. The conditional 'if thou wilt' acknowledges God's sovereignty in healing while expressing confidence in His power. This models proper prayer: humble, submissive to divine will, yet bold in app...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(40-43) And there came a leper.—See Notes on Matthew 8:1-4. The miracle appears in St. Matthew as following closely on the Sermon on the Mount.

And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his hand, and touched him, and saith unto him, I will; be thou clean.

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KJV Study Commentary

Christ's compassion (Greek: splagchnizomai, moved in the inward parts) demonstrates God's heart toward the afflicted. His physical touch was revolutionary—others fled from lepers, but Jesus touched the untouchable, showing that His holiness cleanses rather than being defiled by contact with uncleanness. The immediate healing displays divine power, while the touch displays divine love—both necessar...
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And as soon as he had spoken, immediately the leprosy departed from him, and he was cleansed.

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KJV Study Commentary

The immediacy of healing ('immediately the leprosy departed') demonstrates Christ's divine authority—no gradual improvement, but instant restoration. Mark's precise observation shows his attention to miraculous detail. The departure of leprosy signifies Christ's power over curse and corruption, prefiguring His victory over sin's effects. This physical healing pictures the instant justification bel...
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And he straitly charged him, and forthwith sent him away;

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KJV Study Commentary

Christ's 'straitly charged' (Greek: embrimaomai, sternly warned with emotion) seems paradoxical—why command silence after such a public miracle? This reflects the 'Messianic secret' theme in Mark: Christ controlled the timing and nature of His revelation to prevent premature political messianic movements. His stern warning shows the seriousness of following His instructions precisely, even when th...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(43) **He straitly charged him.**—The word is the same as that in Matthew 9:30 (where see Note).

And saith unto him, See thou say nothing to any man: but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing those things which Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.

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KJV Study Commentary

Christ's command to show himself to the priest follows Levitical law (Lev. 14:2-32), demonstrating His submission to divine ordinances. The offering serves as 'testimony unto them'—evidence to religious authorities of genuine healing and Christ's respect for Mosaic law. This refutes later charges that Christ opposed the Law; rather, He fulfilled it perfectly. The priest's verification would serve ...
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But he went out, and began to publish it much, and to blaze abroad the matter, insomuch that Jesus could no more openly enter into the city, but was without in desert places: and they came to him from every quarter.

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KJV Study Commentary

The healed leper's disobedience ('he went out, and began to publish it much') illustrates that zeal without obedience displeases God. His public testimony, though well-intentioned, hindered Christ's ministry by attracting crowds seeking physical healing rather than spiritual truth. The consequence—Christ could not 'openly enter into the city'—shows how our disobedience, even from good motives, can...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(45) **But he went out.**—St. Mark alone describes the man himself as the agent in spreading the report of the miracle, and gives in more vivid terms than St. Luke the consequent pressure of the multitude, and the necessity for retirement into “desert places.” **Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers Text Courtesy of BibleSupport.com. Used by Permission. **Bible Hub

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