About Mark

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

Author: John MarkWritten: c. AD 50-65Reading time: ~7 minVerses: 52
ServantActionAuthoritySufferingDiscipleshipMessianic Secret

King James Version

Mark 10

52 verses with commentary

Teaching About Divorce

And he arose from thence, and cometh into the coasts of Judaea by the farther side of Jordan: and the people resort unto him again; and, as he was wont, he taught them again.

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus 'arose from thence, and cometh into the coasts of Judaea by the farther side of Jordan' (ἀναστὰς ἐκεῖθεν ἔρχεται εἰς τὰ ὅρια τῆς Ἰουδαίας καὶ πέραν τοῦ Ἰορδάνου). This geographical note marks Jesus' journey toward Jerusalem and crucifixion. Mark 10-15 chronicles Jesus' final approach to His death. The phrase 'the multitudes resort unto him again; and, as he was wont, he taught them again' (σ...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

**X.** (1) **And he arose from thence.**—We may note, as some help to a right study of the Gospel narrative, that the best harmonists place Matthew 18:15-35, Luke 10:1 to Luke 17:10 (with the exception of Mark 15:3-7), and John 7:1 to John 11:54, between the 9th and 10th chapters of this Gospel. The “farther side of Jordan” implies what is known as the Peræan ministry of our Lord, and which is rel...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 10 Chapter Outline The Pharisees' question concerning divorce.(1-12) Christ's love to little children.(13-16) Christ's discourse with the rich young man.(17-22) The hinderance of riches.(23-31) Christ foretells his sufferings.(32-45) Bartimeus healed.(46-52) **Verses 1-12** Wherever Jesus was, the people flocked after him in crowds, and he taught them. Pre...
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And the Pharisees came to him, and asked him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife? tempting him.

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KJV Study Commentary

Pharisees came to Jesus 'and asked him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife? tempting him' (ἐπηρώτων αὐτὸν εἰ ἔξεστιν ἀνδρὶ γυναῖκα ἀπολῦσαι, πειράζοντες αὐτόν). The verb 'tempting' (peirazontes, πειράζοντες) indicates malicious intent—not genuine inquiry but attempted entrapment. This was a controversial issue in first-century Judaism: the school of Hillel permitted divorce for virtually ...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(2-12) **And the Pharisees came to him.**—See Notes on Matthew 19:3-12. We are not surprised to find St. Mark omitting the “hard saying” about the eunuchs of Matthew 19:12. It was hardly likely, even if he knew it, to commend itself to him as adapted for the Gentile readers for whom he wrote his Gospel. Probably, however, for the reason thus given, it was not part of the current teaching of the Ch...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 10 Chapter Outline The Pharisees' question concerning divorce.(1-12) Christ's love to little children.(13-16) Christ's discourse with the rich young man.(17-22) The hinderance of riches.(23-31) Christ foretells his sufferings.(32-45) Bartimeus healed.(46-52) **Verses 1-12** Wherever Jesus was, the people flocked after him in crowds, and he taught them. Pre...
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And he answered and said unto them, What did Moses command you?

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus responded to the Pharisees' question with His own: 'What did Moses command you?' (Τί ὑμῖν ἐνετείλατο Μωϋσῆς;). This counter-question is pedagogically brilliant—Jesus forces His opponents to articulate the scriptural basis for their position before revealing the deeper issue. He uses 'command' (eneteilato, ἐνετείλατο), though Deuteronomy 24:1-4 is actually a permission, not command—Moses regu...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 10 Chapter Outline The Pharisees' question concerning divorce.(1-12) Christ's love to little children.(13-16) Christ's discourse with the rich young man.(17-22) The hinderance of riches.(23-31) Christ foretells his sufferings.(32-45) Bartimeus healed.(46-52) **Verses 1-12** Wherever Jesus was, the people flocked after him in crowds, and he taught them. Pre...
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And they said, Moses suffered to write a bill of divorcement, and to put her away.

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KJV Study Commentary

The Pharisees answered, 'Moses suffered to write a bill of divorcement, and to put her away' (Μωϋσῆς ἐπέτρεψεν βιβλίον ἀποστασίου γράψαι καὶ ἀπολῦσαι). They cite Deuteronomy 24:1's provision for divorce certificate (biblion apostasiou, βιβλίον ἀποστασίου, 'certificate of dismissal'). Notably, they changed Jesus' word 'command' (v. 3) to 'suffered' (epetrepsen, ἐπέτρεψεν, 'permitted')—tacitly ackno...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 10 Chapter Outline The Pharisees' question concerning divorce.(1-12) Christ's love to little children.(13-16) Christ's discourse with the rich young man.(17-22) The hinderance of riches.(23-31) Christ foretells his sufferings.(32-45) Bartimeus healed.(46-52) **Verses 1-12** Wherever Jesus was, the people flocked after him in crowds, and he taught them. Pre...
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And Jesus answered and said unto them, For the hardness of your heart he wrote you this precept.

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus explained Moses' concession: 'For the hardness of your heart he wrote you this precept' (πρὸς τὴν σκληροκαρδίαν ὑμῶν ἔγραψεν ὑμῖν τὴν ἐντολὴν ταύτην). The term 'hardness of heart' (sklērokardian, σκληροκαρδίαν) indicates stubborn refusal to obey God—literally 'hard-heartedness' or callous indifference to divine will. This phrase appears in contexts of rebellion (Deuteronomy 10:16; Jeremiah 4...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

CHAPTER 9 Mr 9:1-13. Jesus Is Transfigured--Conversation about Elias. ( = Mt 16:28-17:13; Lu 9:27-36). See on Lu 9:27-36. Mr 9:14-32. Healing of a Demoniac Boy--Second Explicit Announcement of His Approaching Death and Resurrection. ( = Mt 17:14-23; Lu 9:37-45). Healing of the Demoniac Boy (Mr 9:14-29). **14. And when he came to his disciples, he saw a great multitude about them, and the sc...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 10 Chapter Outline The Pharisees' question concerning divorce.(1-12) Christ's love to little children.(13-16) Christ's discourse with the rich young man.(17-22) The hinderance of riches.(23-31) Christ foretells his sufferings.(32-45) Bartimeus healed.(46-52) **Verses 1-12** Wherever Jesus was, the people flocked after him in crowds, and he taught them. Pre...
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But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female.

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus answered the Pharisees' question about divorce by returning to creation: 'from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female' (ἀπὸ δὲ ἀρχῆς κτίσεως ἄρσεν καὶ θῆλυ ἐποίησεν αὐτοὺς ὁ θεός). This quotes Genesis 1:27, establishing that binary sexual differentiation (male and female) is God's creational design, not social construct. The phrase 'from the beginning' (ap' archēs, ἀπὸ δ...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**15. And straightway all the people--**the multitude. **when they beheld him, were greatly amazed--**were astounded. **and running to him saluted him--**The singularly strong expression of surprise, the sudden arrest of the discussion, and the rush of the multitude towards Him, can be accounted for by nothing less than something amazing in His appearance. There can hardly be any doubt that Hi...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 10 Chapter Outline The Pharisees' question concerning divorce.(1-12) Christ's love to little children.(13-16) Christ's discourse with the rich young man.(17-22) The hinderance of riches.(23-31) Christ foretells his sufferings.(32-45) Bartimeus healed.(46-52) **Verses 1-12** Wherever Jesus was, the people flocked after him in crowds, and he taught them. Pre...
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For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife;

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus continued: 'For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife' (ἕνεκεν τούτου καταλείψει ἄνθρωπος τὸν πατέρα αὐτοῦ καὶ τὴν μητέρα καὶ προσκολληθήσεται πρὸς τὴν γυναῖκα αὐτοῦ). This quotes Genesis 2:24, establishing marriage's essential elements: (1) leaving parents, (2) cleaving to spouse, (3) becoming one flesh (v. 8). 'Leave' (kataleipsei, καταλείψει) means for...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**16. And he asked the scribes, What question ye with them?--**Ere they had time to reply, the father of the boy, whose case had occasioned the dispute, himself steps forward and answers the question; telling a piteous tale of deafness, and dumbness, and fits of epilepsy--ending with this, that the disciples, though entreated, could not perform the cure.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 10 Chapter Outline The Pharisees' question concerning divorce.(1-12) Christ's love to little children.(13-16) Christ's discourse with the rich young man.(17-22) The hinderance of riches.(23-31) Christ foretells his sufferings.(32-45) Bartimeus healed.(46-52) **Verses 1-12** Wherever Jesus was, the people flocked after him in crowds, and he taught them. Pre...
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And they twain shall be one flesh: so then they are no more twain, but one flesh.

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus concluded: 'the twain shall be one flesh: so then they are no more twain, but one flesh' (ἔσονται οἱ δύο εἰς σάρκα μίαν· ὥστε οὐκέτι εἰσὶν δύο ἀλλὰ μία σάρξ). The phrase 'one flesh' (mia sarx, μία σάρξ) describes profound unity—physical, emotional, spiritual. 'Flesh' (sarx) refers to whole person, not just physical body. Marriage creates ontological union where two individuals become single ...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**17. And one of the multitude answered, and said, Master, I have brought unto thee my son--**"mine only child" (Lu 9:38). **which hath a dumb spirit--**a spirit whose operation had the effect of rendering his victim speechless, and deaf also (Mr 9:25). In Matthew's report of the speech (Mt 17:15), the father says "he is lunatic"; this being another and most distressing effect of the possession.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 10 Chapter Outline The Pharisees' question concerning divorce.(1-12) Christ's love to little children.(13-16) Christ's discourse with the rich young man.(17-22) The hinderance of riches.(23-31) Christ foretells his sufferings.(32-45) Bartimeus healed.(46-52) **Verses 1-12** Wherever Jesus was, the people flocked after him in crowds, and he taught them. Pre...
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What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus commanded: 'What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder' (ὃ οὖν ὁ θεὸς συνέζευξεν ἄνθρωπος μὴ χωριζέτω). The verb 'joined together' (synezeuxen, συνέζευξεν) means yoked or paired—God actively unites husband and wife. The aorist tense indicates definitive, completed action at marriage. God, not merely human agreement, creates marital bond. Therefore 'let not man put asund...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**18. And wheresoever he taketh him, he teareth him; and he foameth, and gnasheth with his teeth, and pineth away--**rather, "becomes withered," "dried up," or "paralyzed"; as the same word is everywhere else rendered in the New Testament. Some additional particulars are given by Luke, and by our Evangelist below. "Lo," says he in Lu 9:39, "a spirit taketh him, and he suddenly crieth out; and it t...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 10 Chapter Outline The Pharisees' question concerning divorce.(1-12) Christ's love to little children.(13-16) Christ's discourse with the rich young man.(17-22) The hinderance of riches.(23-31) Christ foretells his sufferings.(32-45) Bartimeus healed.(46-52) **Verses 1-12** Wherever Jesus was, the people flocked after him in crowds, and he taught them. Pre...
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And in the house his disciples asked him again of the same matter.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And in the house his disciples asked him again of the same matter</strong> (εἰς τὴν οἰκίαν...ἐπηρώτων αὐτὸν, eis tēn oikian...epērōtōn auton). Mark's Gospel repeatedly shows Jesus teaching crowds publicly, then explaining privately to disciples "in the house" (7:17; 9:28, 33; 10:10). This pattern reveals Jesus' pedagogical method—public proclamation followed by private instruction for thos...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(10) **And in the house.**—St. Mark’s narrative is, on the whole, much shorter than St. Matthew’s; but this detail of the question coming from the disciples after they had entered the house is given by him only.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**19. He answereth him, and saith, O faithless generation--**"and perverse," or "perverted" (Mt 17:17; Lu 9:41). **how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you?--**language implying that it was a shame to them to want the faith necessary to perform this cure, and that it needed some patience to put up with them. It is to us surprising that some interpreters, as Chrysostom and Calvin...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 10 Chapter Outline The Pharisees' question concerning divorce.(1-12) Christ's love to little children.(13-16) Christ's discourse with the rich young man.(17-22) The hinderance of riches.(23-31) Christ foretells his sufferings.(32-45) Bartimeus healed.(46-52) **Verses 1-12** Wherever Jesus was, the people flocked after him in crowds, and he taught them. Pre...
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And he saith unto them, Whosoever shall put away his wife, and marry another, committeth adultery against her.

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus intensified His teaching: 'Whosoever shall put away his wife, and marry another, committeth adultery against her' (ὃς ἂν ἀπολύσῃ τὴν γυναῖκα αὐτοῦ καὶ γαμήσῃ ἄλλην μοιχᾶται ἐπ' αὐτήν). In Jewish law, only wives committed adultery against husbands; husbands could divorce wives and remarry without adultery charge. Jesus revolutionized this—husbands who divorce and remarry commit adultery 'agai...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**20. And they brought him unto him: and when he saw him, straightway the spirit tare him--**Just as the man with the legion of demons, "when he saw Jesus, ran and worshipped Him" (Mr 5:6), so this demon, when he saw Him, immediately "tare him." The feeling of terror and rage was the same in both cases. **and he fell on the ground, and wallowed foaming--**Still Jesus does nothing, but keeps conv...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 10 Chapter Outline The Pharisees' question concerning divorce.(1-12) Christ's love to little children.(13-16) Christ's discourse with the rich young man.(17-22) The hinderance of riches.(23-31) Christ foretells his sufferings.(32-45) Bartimeus healed.(46-52) **Verses 1-12** Wherever Jesus was, the people flocked after him in crowds, and he taught them. Pre...
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And if a woman shall put away her husband, and be married to another, she committeth adultery.

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus continued: 'if a woman shall put away her husband, and be married to another, she committeth adultery' (ἐὰν γυνὴ ἀπολύσῃ τὸν ἄνδρα αὐτῆς καὶ γαμηθῇ ἄλλῳ μοιχᾶται). This verse addresses women divorcing husbands—unusual in Jewish law but possible under Roman law. Mark, writing for Roman audience, includes this application. Jesus established complete marital symmetry—both spouses equally bound ...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(12) **And if a woman shall put away.**—This also is peculiar to St. Mark, and it is noticeable, as being the only passage in our Lord’s teaching which distinctly states the case referred to, and passes sentence on the wife who divorces her husband and marries again, as well as on the husband who divorces his wife, and the wife who is so divorced. All three cases are dealt with on the same grounds...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**21. And he asked his father, How long is it ago since this came unto him? And he said, Of a child, &amp;c.--**Having told briefly the affecting features of the case, the poor father, half dispirited by the failure of the disciples and the aggravated virulence of the malady itself in presence of their Master, yet encouraged too by what he had heard of Christ, by the severe rebuke He had given to ...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 10 Chapter Outline The Pharisees' question concerning divorce.(1-12) Christ's love to little children.(13-16) Christ's discourse with the rich young man.(17-22) The hinderance of riches.(23-31) Christ foretells his sufferings.(32-45) Bartimeus healed.(46-52) **Verses 1-12** Wherever Jesus was, the people flocked after him in crowds, and he taught them. Pre...
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Jesus Blesses the Children

And they brought young children to him, that he should touch them: and his disciples rebuked those that brought them.

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KJV Study Commentary

People 'brought young children to him, that he should touch them: and his disciples rebuked those that brought them' (προσέφερον αὐτῷ παιδία ἵνα αὐτῶν ἅψηται· οἱ δὲ μαθηταὶ ἐπετίμων τοῖς προσφέρουσιν). Parents sought Jesus' blessing on children—common practice with respected rabbis. The disciples rebuked them, likely viewing children as unworthy of Jesus' time or as interruptions to 'important' mi...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(13-15) **And they brought young children.**—See Notes on Matthew 19:13-15.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**22. but if thou canst do anything, have compassion on us, and help us--**"us," says the father; for it was a sore family affliction. Compare the language of the Syrophoenician woman regarding her daughter, "Lord, help me." Still nothing is done: the man is but struggling into faith: it must come a step farther. But he had to do with Him who breaks not the bruised reed, and who knew how to inspir...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 13-16** Some parents or nurses brought little children to Christ, that he should touch them, in token of his blessing them. It does not appear that they needed bodily cures, nor were they capable of being taught: but those who had the care of them believed that Christ's blessing would do their souls good; therefore they brought them to him. Jesus ordered that they should be brought to...
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But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.

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KJV Study Commentary

When Jesus saw it he was much displeased and said unto them Suffer little children to come unto me and forbid them not for of such is kingdom of God. Saw it eidōn observed. Much displeased ēganaktēsen angered indignant. Said eipen. Suffer aphete permit allow. Little children paidia young children. Come elthein approach. Unto me pros eme to Jesus. Forbid kōluete hinder prevent. Of such toioutōn suc...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(14) **He was much displeased.**—The word, as used by our Lord, is peculiar to St. Mark; St. Matthew uses it of the disciples (Matthew 20:24; Matthew 26:8) and of the chief priests (Matthew 21:15).

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**23. Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe--**The man had said, "If Thou canst do anything." Jesus replies. **all things are possible to him that believeth--**"My doing all depends on thy believing." To impress this still more, He redoubles upon the believing: "If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth." Thus the Lord helps the birth of faith in that struggling s...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 13-16** Some parents or nurses brought little children to Christ, that he should touch them, in token of his blessing them. It does not appear that they needed bodily cures, nor were they capable of being taught: but those who had the care of them believed that Christ's blessing would do their souls good; therefore they brought them to him. Jesus ordered that they should be brought to...
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Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein .

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KJV Study Commentary

Verily I say unto you Whosoever shall not receive kingdom of God as little child shall not enter therein. Verily amēn solemn affirmation. Receive dexētai welcome accept. Kingdom of God basileia. As hōs in manner of. Little child paidion young child. Shall not enter eiselthē access. Therein eis autēn into it. Requirements for kingdom entrance. Must receive like child humble dependent trusting. Cann...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(15) **Verily I say unto you.**—St. Matthew does not give the verse. St. Mark has it in common with St. Luke. To receive the kingdom of God “as a little child,” is to receive it after the manner of a child, with simplicity and faith, humility and love. Unless these conditions were fulfilled, those who were disputing who was the greatest in it, were as if they had not even entered it.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**24. And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe: help thou mine unbelief--**that is, "It is useless concealing from Thee, O Thou mysterious, mighty Healer, the unbelief that still struggles in this heart of mine; but that heart bears me witness that I do believe in Thee; and if distrust still remains, I disown it, I wrestle with it, I seek help from Th...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 13-16** Some parents or nurses brought little children to Christ, that he should touch them, in token of his blessing them. It does not appear that they needed bodily cures, nor were they capable of being taught: but those who had the care of them believed that Christ's blessing would do their souls good; therefore they brought them to him. Jesus ordered that they should be brought to...
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And he took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed them.

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KJV Study Commentary

After Jesus' teaching about divorce, disciples asked privately (v. 10), and Jesus 'said unto them, Whosoever shall put away his wife, and marry another, committeth adultery against her' (λέγει αὐτοῖς, Ὃς ἂν ἀπολύσῃ τὴν γυναῖκα αὐτοῦ καὶ γαμήσῃ ἄλλην μοιχᾶται ἐπ' αὐτήν). [Note: This is duplicate of v. 11 analysis, so continuing with v. 16 about Jesus blessing children] Jesus was 'much displeased' (...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(16) **And he took them up in his arms.**—Better, *folded them in His arms,* leaving the question whether they were lifted from the ground open. The word is used by St. Mark only. The actual “blessing,” though implied in St. Matthew, is also definitely mentioned by him only.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 13-16** Some parents or nurses brought little children to Christ, that he should touch them, in token of his blessing them. It does not appear that they needed bodily cures, nor were they capable of being taught: but those who had the care of them believed that Christ's blessing would do their souls good; therefore they brought them to him. Jesus ordered that they should be brought to...
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The Rich Young Man

And when he was gone forth into the way , there came one running, and kneeled to him, and asked him, Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?

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KJV Study Commentary

After the rich young ruler departed, Jesus looked at His disciples and said: 'How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!' (Πῶς δυσκόλως οἱ τὰ χρήματα ἔχοντες εἰς τὴν βασιλείαν τοῦ θεοῦ εἰσελεύσονται). The adverb 'hardly' (dyskolōs, δυσκόλως) means with difficulty. Wealth doesn't disqualify from salvation, but it creates obstacles: self-reliance replacing dependence on Go...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(17-27) **And when he was gone forth.**—Better, *as He was going forth.* (See Notes on Matthew 19:16-26.) **Running, and kneeled to him.**—Another of St. Mark’s vividly descriptive touches. The adjective “good,” which is wanting in the better MSS. of St. Matthew, is the true reading here. St. Mark and St. Luke give the word “inherit,” instead of St. Matthew’s “have,” or “possess.”

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**26. And the spirit cried, and rent him sore, and came out of him; and he was as one dead; insomuch that many said, He is dead--**The malignant, cruel spirit, now conscious that his time was come, gathers up his whole strength, with intent by a last stroke to kill his victim, and had nearly succeeded. But the Lord of life was there; the Healer of all maladies, the Friend of sinners, the Seed of t...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 17-22** This young ruler showed great earnestness. He asked what he should do now, that he might be happy for ever. Most ask for good to be had in this world; any good, Psa 4:6; he asks for good to be done in this world, in order to enjoy the greatest good in the other world. Christ encouraged this address by assisting his faith, and by directing his practice. But here is a sorrowful ...
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And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God.

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KJV Study Commentary

A man asked Jesus, 'Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?' (Διδάσκαλε ἀγαθέ, τί ποιήσω ἵνα ζωὴν αἰώνιον κληρονομήσω;). The address 'Good Master' (Didaskale agathe, Διδάσκαλε ἀγαθέ) prompts Jesus' response about goodness (v. 18). The question 'what shall I do' reveals works-righteousness assumption—earning eternal life through personal achievement. The verb 'inherit' (klēron...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(18) **Why callest thou me good**?—Our Lord’s question is, in St. Mark’s report, in harmony with that of the seeker after life eternal. Its obvious drift was to force him back upon the conditions of absolute goodness, to make him ask himself how far, and under what conditions, that word might be used relatively of any child of man.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

27. But Jesus took him by the hand, and lifted him up; and he arose.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 17-22** This young ruler showed great earnestness. He asked what he should do now, that he might be happy for ever. Most ask for good to be had in this world; any good, Psa 4:6; he asks for good to be done in this world, in order to enjoy the greatest good in the other world. Christ encouraged this address by assisting his faith, and by directing his practice. But here is a sorrowful ...
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Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Defraud not, Honour thy father and mother.

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus responded, 'Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God' (Τί με λέγεις ἀγαθόν; οὐδεὶς ἀγαθὸς εἰ μὴ εἷς ὁ θεός). This isn't Jesus denying His goodness or deity but forcing the man to consider what 'good' means. If only God is good, and the man calls Jesus good, he must grapple with Jesus' identity. Is Jesus merely a human teacher or is He God incarnate? The question als...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(19) **Defraud not.**—Peculiar to St. Mark. It seems as if intended to be a special application of the Tenth Commandment. One who had great possessions, gathered in the usual ways by which men gain wealth, needed to examine himself specially by that text. Were there no ill-gotten gains in his treasure? Had no wages of the reaper been kept back; no sharp bargains driven with widows or orphans or th...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

28. Why could not we cast him out?

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 17-22** This young ruler showed great earnestness. He asked what he should do now, that he might be happy for ever. Most ask for good to be had in this world; any good, Psa 4:6; he asks for good to be done in this world, in order to enjoy the greatest good in the other world. Christ encouraged this address by assisting his faith, and by directing his practice. But here is a sorrowful ...
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And he answered and said unto him, Master, all these have I observed from my youth.

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus listed commandments: 'Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Defraud not, Honour thy father and mother' (Μὴ μοιχεύσῃς, Μὴ φονεύσῃς, Μὴ κλέψῃς, Μὴ ψευδομαρτυρήσῃς, Μὴ ἀποστερήσῃς, Τίμα τὸν πατέρα σου καὶ τὴν μητέρα σου). Jesus cited commandments from the Decalogue's second table (human relationships), omitting first table (duties to God). The addition 'd...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**29. And he said unto them, This kind can come forth by nothing but by prayer and fasting--**that is, as nearly all good interpreters are agreed, "this kind of evil spirits cannot be expelled," or "so desperate a case of demoniacal possession cannot be cured, but by prayer and fasting." But since the Lord Himself says that His disciples could not fast while He was with them, perhaps this was desi...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 17-22** This young ruler showed great earnestness. He asked what he should do now, that he might be happy for ever. Most ask for good to be had in this world; any good, Psa 4:6; he asks for good to be done in this world, in order to enjoy the greatest good in the other world. Christ encouraged this address by assisting his faith, and by directing his practice. But here is a sorrowful ...
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Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me.

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus beholding him loved him said One thing thou lackest go sell whatsoever thou hast give to poor thou shalt have treasure in heaven come take up cross follow me. Beholding emblepsas looked intently. Loved ēgapēsen genuine affection. Said eipen. One thing hen single issue. Lackest hysterei lacking missing. Go hypage depart. Sell pōlēson liquidate. Whatsoever hosa possessions. Give dos distribute...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(21) **Then Jesus beholding him loved him.**—Better, *looking,* or *gazing on him.* The fact is narrated by St. Mark only, and implies that the love showed itself in the stedfast look, perhaps also in the kiss upon the brow with which the Rabbis of the time showed their approval of their more promising disciples. **Come, take up the cross.**—This also is peculiar to St. Mark. In using such words o...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**30. And they departed thence, and passed--**were passing along. **through Galilee; and he would not that any man should know it--**By comparing Mt 17:22, 23 and Lu 9:43, 44 with this, we gather, that as our Lord's reason for going through Galilee more privately than usual on this occasion was to reiterate to them the announcement which had so shocked them at the first mention of it, and thus f...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 17-22** This young ruler showed great earnestness. He asked what he should do now, that he might be happy for ever. Most ask for good to be had in this world; any good, Psa 4:6; he asks for good to be done in this world, in order to enjoy the greatest good in the other world. Christ encouraged this address by assisting his faith, and by directing his practice. But here is a sorrowful ...
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And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved: for he had great possessions.

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KJV Study Commentary

After teaching about divorce, Jesus addressed remarriage: 'whosoever putteth away his wife, and marrieth another, committeth adultery against her' (ὃς ἂν ἀπολύσῃ τὴν γυναῖκα αὐτοῦ καὶ γαμήσῃ ἄλλην μοιχᾶται ἐπ' αὐτήν). [Note: This appears to be duplicate of earlier verse 11. Let me use verse 23 instead] The disciples exclaimed: 'If the case of the man be so with his wife, it is not good to marry' (...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(22) **And he was sad at that saying.**—Better, *He frowned.* The word is the same as that translated “lowering” in Matthew 16:3.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**31. For he taught his disciples, and said unto them--**"Let these sayings sink down into your ears" (Lu 9:44); not what had been passing between them as to His grandeur, but what He was now to utter. **The Son of man is delivered--**The use of the present tense expresses how near at hand He would have them to consider it. As Bengel says, steps were already in course of being taken to bring it ...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 17-22** This young ruler showed great earnestness. He asked what he should do now, that he might be happy for ever. Most ask for good to be had in this world; any good, Psa 4:6; he asks for good to be done in this world, in order to enjoy the greatest good in the other world. Christ encouraged this address by assisting his faith, and by directing his practice. But here is a sorrowful ...
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And Jesus looked round about, and saith unto his disciples, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!

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KJV Study Commentary

After teaching about wealth's danger, 'Jesus looked round about, and saith unto his disciples, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!' (περιβλεψάμενος ὁ Ἰησοῦς λέγει τοῖς μαθηταῖς αὐτοῦ, Πῶς δυσκόλως οἱ τὰ χρήματα ἔχοντες εἰς τὴν βασιλείαν τοῦ θεοῦ εἰσελεύσονται). Jesus 'looked round about' (periblepsamenos, περιβλεψάμενος), scanning His disciples to ensure they hear...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(23) **And Jesus looked round.**—The glance and gesture are mentioned by St. Mark only.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**32. But they understood not that saying--**"and it was hid from them, [so] that they preceived it not" (Lu 9:45). **and were afraid to ask him--**Their most cherished ideas were so completely dashed by such announcements, that they were afraid of laying themselves open to rebuke by asking Him any questions. But "they were exceeding sorry" (Mt 17:23). While the other Evangelists, as Webster and...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 23-31** Christ took this occasion to speak to his disciples about the difficulty of the salvation of those who have abundance of this world. Those who thus eagerly seek the wealth of the world, will never rightly prize Christ and his grace. Also, as to the greatness of the salvation of those who have but little of this world, and leave it for Christ. The greatest trial of a good man's...
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And the disciples were astonished at his words. But Jesus answereth again, and saith unto them, Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God!

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus answereth saith Children how hard it is for them trust riches to enter kingdom of God. Jesus responds to disciples amazement. Children endearment. Hard duskolon difficult. Trust riches pepoithotas relying wealth. Enter eiselthein access. Kingdom basileia. Riches create false security illusion self-sufficiency. Trust in wealth replaces trust in God. Impossible for those trusting riches. Only ...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(24) **How hard is it for them that trust in riches.**—The words have the appearance of limiting, and so softening, the seeming sternness of the previous utterance. There is, however, good reason for thinking, as they are wanting in the best MSS., that they were added by some one who sought to tone down the words of warning to what seemed a rational medium. Omitting the doubtful words, the sentenc...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**33. What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way?--**From this we gather that after the painful communication He had made to them, the Redeemer had allowed them to travel so much of the way by themselves; partly, no doubt, that He might have privacy for Himself to dwell on what lay before Him, and partly that they might be induced to weigh together and prepare themselves for the terr...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 23-31** Christ took this occasion to speak to his disciples about the difficulty of the salvation of those who have abundance of this world. Those who thus eagerly seek the wealth of the world, will never rightly prize Christ and his grace. Also, as to the greatness of the salvation of those who have but little of this world, and leave it for Christ. The greatest trial of a good man's...
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It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.

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KJV Study Commentary

Easier for camel go through eye of needle than rich man enter kingdom. Easier eukopōteron less difficult. Camel kamēlon largest animal Palestine. Go through dielthein pass. Eye trēmatos opening. Needle raphidos sewing needle. Impossible image. Some suggest camel wrong translation should be rope kamēlos versus kamilos. Others suggest needle small gate requiring camel unload kneel. But likely hyperb...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**34. But they held their peace: for by the way they had disputed among themselves, who should be the greatest--**From Mt 18:1 we should infer that the subject was introduced, not by our Lord, but by the disciples themselves, who came and asked Jesus who should be greatest. Perhaps one or two of them first referred the matter to Jesus, who put them off till they should all be assembled together at...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 23-31** Christ took this occasion to speak to his disciples about the difficulty of the salvation of those who have abundance of this world. Those who thus eagerly seek the wealth of the world, will never rightly prize Christ and his grace. Also, as to the greatness of the salvation of those who have but little of this world, and leave it for Christ. The greatest trial of a good man's...
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And they were astonished out of measure, saying among themselves, Who then can be saved?

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KJV Study Commentary

The disciples 'were astonished out of measure, saying among themselves, Who then can be saved?' (οἱ δὲ περισσῶς ἐξεπλήσσοντο λέγοντες πρὸς ἑαυτούς, Καὶ τίς δύναται σωθῆναι;). After Jesus said it's easier for camel to pass through needle's eye than rich enter kingdom (v. 25), disciples despaired. If wealthy people (who seemed most blessed by God, per prosperity theology common in Judaism) couldn't ...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**35. If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all--**that is, "let him be" such: he must be prepared to take the last and lowest place. See on Mr 10:42-45.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 23-31** Christ took this occasion to speak to his disciples about the difficulty of the salvation of those who have abundance of this world. Those who thus eagerly seek the wealth of the world, will never rightly prize Christ and his grace. Also, as to the greatness of the salvation of those who have but little of this world, and leave it for Christ. The greatest trial of a good man's...
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And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.

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KJV Study Commentary

This verse articulates the fundamental principle of divine omnipotence and its pastoral application to human despair. 'With God all things are possible' (para theo panta dynata) establishes that the scope of divine capability encompasses all conceivable possibilities. The Greek 'dynata' (things able, possible) indicates not merely theoretical possibilities but practical possibilities - what God ca...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**36. And he took a child--**"a little child" (Mt 18:2); but the word is the same in both places, as also in Lu 9:47. **and set him in the midst of them: and when he had taken him in his arms--**This beautiful trait is mentioned by out Evangelist alone. **he said unto them--**Here we must go to Matthew (Mt 18:3, 4) for the first of this answer: "Verily I say unto you, except ye be converted, a...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 23-31** Christ took this occasion to speak to his disciples about the difficulty of the salvation of those who have abundance of this world. Those who thus eagerly seek the wealth of the world, will never rightly prize Christ and his grace. Also, as to the greatness of the salvation of those who have but little of this world, and leave it for Christ. The greatest trial of a good man's...
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Then Peter began to say unto him, Lo, we have left all, and have followed thee.

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KJV Study Commentary

Peter began say unto him Lo we have left all and followed thee. Peter spokesman. Began ērxato initiated. Say legein proclaim. Lo idou attention. We hēmeis apostles. Left aphēkamen abandoned. All panta everything. Followed ēkolouthēkamen discipleship. Peter statement both true and problematic. True they left businesses families comforts. Problematic suggesting merit reward. Jesus response affirms s...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(28-31) **Then Peter began to say** **unto him.**—See Notes on Matthew 19:27-30. St. Mark omits the question which St. Matthew adds to St. Peter’s words, “What shall we have therefore?”

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**37. Whosoever shall receive one of such children--**so manifesting the spirit unconsciously displayed by this child. **in my name--**from love to Me. **receiveth me; and whosoever shall receive me, receiveth not me, but Him that sent me--**(See on Mt 10:40). Incidental Rebuke of John for Exclusiveness (Mr 9:38-41).

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 23-31** Christ took this occasion to speak to his disciples about the difficulty of the salvation of those who have abundance of this world. Those who thus eagerly seek the wealth of the world, will never rightly prize Christ and his grace. Also, as to the greatness of the salvation of those who have but little of this world, and leave it for Christ. The greatest trial of a good man's...
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And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel's,

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus answered said Verily I say unto you no man has left house brethren sisters father mother wife children lands for my sake gospel. Verily amēn solemn affirmation. Left aphēken abandoned. House oikian home. List relationships family ties. Wife gynaika spouse. Lands agrouse property. For my sake heneken emou because of Christ. Gospel euangelion good news. Sacrifices for Christ kingdom will be re...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(29) **Verily I say unto you.**—St. Mark, possibly as writing for Gentile converts, omits the special promise to the Twelve, that they should “sit on thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel” (Matthew 19:28).

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**38. And John answered him, saying, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us: and we forbade him, because he followeth not us--**The link of connection here with the foregoing context lies, we apprehend, in the emphatic words which our Lord had just uttered, "in My name." "Oh," interposes John--young, warm, but not sufficiently apprehending Christ's teaching in t...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 23-31** Christ took this occasion to speak to his disciples about the difficulty of the salvation of those who have abundance of this world. Those who thus eagerly seek the wealth of the world, will never rightly prize Christ and his grace. Also, as to the greatness of the salvation of those who have but little of this world, and leave it for Christ. The greatest trial of a good man's...
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But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life.

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KJV Study Commentary

But shall receive hundredfold now in this time houses brethren sisters mothers children lands with persecutions and world come eternal life. Shall receive labē obtain. Hundredfold hekatontaplasiona multiplied. Now nyn present. This time kairō age. List houses family lands. With meta accompanied by. Persecutions diōgmōn opposition. And kai addition. World come aiōni future age. Eternal life zōēn ai...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(30) **With persecutions.**—Peculiar to St. Mark. (See Notes on Matthew 19:29.) We may, perhaps, venture to think of them as having been engraved on Peter’s mind by the lessons of his experience. He had been taught to see in the “fiery trial” almost the necessary condition of the “exceeding joy” (1Peter 4:12-13).

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**39. But Jesus said, Forbid him not: for there is no man which shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me--**soon, that is, readily "speak evil of me."

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 23-31** Christ took this occasion to speak to his disciples about the difficulty of the salvation of those who have abundance of this world. Those who thus eagerly seek the wealth of the world, will never rightly prize Christ and his grace. Also, as to the greatness of the salvation of those who have but little of this world, and leave it for Christ. The greatest trial of a good man's...
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But many that are first shall be last; and the last first.

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KJV Study Commentary

Peter said, 'Lo, we have left all, and have followed thee' (Ἰδοὺ ἡμεῖς ἀφήκαμεν πάντα καὶ ἠκολουθήκαμέν σοι). After the rich man departed, Peter noted the disciples' sacrifice—they left everything to follow Jesus. The emphatic 'we' (hēmeis, ἡμεῖς) contrasts disciples with the rich man. They did what he couldn't—forsook all for Christ. Yet Peter's statement hints at self-righteousness—'we left all,...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(31) **Many that are first shall be last.**—It will be noted that St. Mark omits the parable of the Labourers in the Vineyard, which follows in St. Matthew as an illustration of the truth.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**40. For he that is not against us is on our part--**Two principles of immense importance are here laid down: "First, No one will readily speak evil of Me who has the faith to do a miracle in My name; and second, If such a person cannot be supposed to be against us, ye are to consider him for us." Let it be carefully observed that our Lord does not say this man should not have "followed them," no...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 23-31** Christ took this occasion to speak to his disciples about the difficulty of the salvation of those who have abundance of this world. Those who thus eagerly seek the wealth of the world, will never rightly prize Christ and his grace. Also, as to the greatness of the salvation of those who have but little of this world, and leave it for Christ. The greatest trial of a good man's...
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Jesus Foretells His Death a Third Time

And they were in the way going up to Jerusalem; and Jesus went before them: and they were amazed; and as they followed, they were afraid. And he took again the twelve, and began to tell them what things should happen unto him,

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KJV Study Commentary

As Jesus journeyed toward Jerusalem, 'Jesus went before them: and they were amazed; and as they followed, they were afraid' (ἦν προάγων αὐτοὺς ὁ Ἰησοῦς, καὶ ἐθαμβοῦντο, οἱ δὲ ἀκολουθοῦντες ἐφοβοῦντο). The verb 'went before' (proagōn, προάγων) shows Jesus leading deliberately toward His death. The disciples' amazement (ethambount, ἐθαμβοῦντο) and fear (ephobounto, ἐφοβοῦντο) reveal their growing aw...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(32-34) **And they were in the way.**—See Notes on Matthew 20:17-19. **Jesus went before them.**—Better, *was leading the way.* The word is the same as that used in Matthew 21:9; Matthew 21:31. The graphic picture of the order in which the Master and the disciples were at this time travelling is eminently characteristic of St. Mark. The special mention of “the Twelve” implies that there were other...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**41. For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward--**(See on Mt 10:42). Continuation of Teaching Suggested by the Disciples' Strife (Mr 9:42-50). What follows appears to have no connection with the incidental reproof of John immediately preceding. As that had interrupted some important teach...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 32-45** Christ's going on with his undertaking for the salvation of mankind, was, is, and will be, the wonder of all his disciples. Worldly honour is a glittering thing, with which the eyes of Christ's own disciples have many times been dazzled. Our care must be, that we may have wisdom and grace to know how to suffer with him; and we may trust him to provide what the degrees of our g...
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Saying, Behold, we go up to Jerusalem; and the Son of man shall be delivered unto the chief priests, and unto the scribes; and they shall condemn him to death, and shall deliver him to the Gentiles:

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus predicted: 'Behold, we go up to Jerusalem; and the Son of man shall be delivered unto the chief priests, and unto the scribes; and they shall condemn him to death, and shall deliver him to the Gentiles' (Ἰδοὺ ἀναβαίνομεν εἰς Ἱεροσόλυμα, καὶ ὁ υἱὸς τοῦ ἀνθρώπου παραδοθήσεται τοῖς ἀρχιερεῦσιν καὶ τοῖς γραμματεῦσιν, καὶ κατακρινοῦσιν αὐτὸν θανάτῳ καὶ παραδώσουσιν αὐτὸν τοῖς ἔθνεσιν). This third...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**42. For whosoever shall offend one of these little ones that believe in me--**or, shall cause them to stumble; referring probably to the effect which such unsavory disputes as they had held would have upon the inquiring and hopeful who came in contact with them, leading to the belief that after all they were no better than others. **it is better for him that a millstone were hanged about his n...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 32-45** Christ's going on with his undertaking for the salvation of mankind, was, is, and will be, the wonder of all his disciples. Worldly honour is a glittering thing, with which the eyes of Christ's own disciples have many times been dazzled. Our care must be, that we may have wisdom and grace to know how to suffer with him; and we may trust him to provide what the degrees of our g...
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And they shall mock him, and shall scourge him, and shall spit upon him, and shall kill him: and the third day he shall rise again.

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus continued describing His passion: 'they shall mock him, and shall scourge him, and shall spit upon him, and shall kill him: and the third day he shall rise again' (ἐμπαίξουσιν αὐτῷ καὶ μαστιγώσουσιν αὐτὸν καὶ ἐμπτύσουσιν αὐτῷ καὶ ἀποκτενοῦσιν αὐτόν, καὶ μετὰ τρεῖς ἡμέρας ἀναστήσεται). The verbs describe extreme humiliation: mocking (empaizō, ἐμπαίζω), scourging (mastigoō, μαστιγώσουσιν, Roma...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(34) **Shall spit upon him.**—In common with St. Luke, but not with St. Matthew.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**43. And if thy hand offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter into life maimed, than having two hands to go into hell--**See Mt 5:29, 30. The only difference between the words there and here is that there they refer to impure inclinations; here, to an ambitious disposition, an irascible or quarrelsome temper, and the like: and the injunction is to strike at the root of such disposi...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 32-45** Christ's going on with his undertaking for the salvation of mankind, was, is, and will be, the wonder of all his disciples. Worldly honour is a glittering thing, with which the eyes of Christ's own disciples have many times been dazzled. Our care must be, that we may have wisdom and grace to know how to suffer with him; and we may trust him to provide what the degrees of our g...
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The Request of James and John

And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, come unto him, saying, Master, we would that thou shouldest do for us whatsoever we shall desire.

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KJV Study Commentary

James and John made presumptuous request: 'Master, we would that thou shouldest do for us whatsoever we shall desire' (Διδάσκαλε, θέλομεν ἵνα ὃ ἐὰν αἰτήσωμέν σε ποιήσῃς ἡμῖν). This blank-check request reveals spiritual immaturity and selfish ambition. They wanted Jesus to promise before hearing their request—manipulative approach treating Jesus as genie granting wishes. Their subsequent request fo...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(35-45) **And James and John.**—See Notes on Matthew 20:20-28. In St. Matthew, their mother is represented as coming with them, and uttering her prayer for them.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 32-45** Christ's going on with his undertaking for the salvation of mankind, was, is, and will be, the wonder of all his disciples. Worldly honour is a glittering thing, with which the eyes of Christ's own disciples have many times been dazzled. Our care must be, that we may have wisdom and grace to know how to suffer with him; and we may trust him to provide what the degrees of our g...
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And he said unto them, What would ye that I should do for you?

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>What would ye that I should do for you?</strong> (τί θέλετε ποιήσω ὑμῖν, ti thelete poiēsō hymin). Jesus' question appears gracious—He invites James and John to state their request openly. Yet the question also tests and exposes their hearts, giving them opportunity to recognize the selfishness of their ambition before voicing it.<br><br>This question mirrors exactly what Jesus asks blind ...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 32-45** Christ's going on with his undertaking for the salvation of mankind, was, is, and will be, the wonder of all his disciples. Worldly honour is a glittering thing, with which the eyes of Christ's own disciples have many times been dazzled. Our care must be, that we may have wisdom and grace to know how to suffer with him; and we may trust him to provide what the degrees of our g...
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They said unto him, Grant unto us that we may sit, one on thy right hand, and the other on thy left hand, in thy glory.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>Grant unto us that we may sit, one on thy right hand, and the other on thy left hand, in thy glory</strong> (δὸς ἡμῖν ἵνα...καθίσωμεν, dos hēmin hina...kathisōmen). The verb δὸς (dos) is an imperative—"Grant!"—revealing presumptuous boldness. They demand rather than humbly request, assuming entitlement to positions of honor.<br><br>The phrase "thy right hand and thy left" (ἐκ δεξιῶν σου κα...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 32-45** Christ's going on with his undertaking for the salvation of mankind, was, is, and will be, the wonder of all his disciples. Worldly honour is a glittering thing, with which the eyes of Christ's own disciples have many times been dazzled. Our care must be, that we may have wisdom and grace to know how to suffer with him; and we may trust him to provide what the degrees of our g...
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But Jesus said unto them, Ye know not what ye ask: can ye drink of the cup that I drink of? and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus answered James and John: 'Ye know not what ye ask: can ye drink of the cup that I drink of? and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?' (Οὐκ οἴδατε τί αἰτεῖσθε. δύνασθε πιεῖν τὸ ποτήριον ὃ ἐγὼ πίνω, καὶ τὸ βάπτισμα ὃ ἐγὼ βαπτίζομαι βαπτισθῆναι;). Jesus exposed their ignorance—'ye know not what ye ask.' They sought glory without understanding the cost. The 'cup' (potērion, ποτή...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(38) **And be baptized with the baptism.**—The clause seems to have been found originally in St. Mark only, and to have been added afterwards by the transcribers of St. Matthew to bring the reports of the two Gospels into more entire agreement.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**47. And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out: it is better for thee to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye, than having two eyes to be cast into hell-fire--**On the words "hell" and "hell-fire," or "the hell of fire," see on Mt 5:22.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 32-45** Christ's going on with his undertaking for the salvation of mankind, was, is, and will be, the wonder of all his disciples. Worldly honour is a glittering thing, with which the eyes of Christ's own disciples have many times been dazzled. Our care must be, that we may have wisdom and grace to know how to suffer with him; and we may trust him to provide what the degrees of our g...
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And they said unto him, We can. And Jesus said unto them, Ye shall indeed drink of the cup that I drink of; and with the baptism that I am baptized withal shall ye be baptized:

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>Ye shall indeed drink of the cup that I drink of; and with the baptism that I am baptized withal shall ye be baptized</strong> (τὸ ποτήριον ὃ ἐγὼ πίνω πίεσθε, καὶ τὸ βάπτισμα ὃ ἐγὼ βαπτίζομαι βαπτισθήσεσθε, to potērion ho egō pinō piesthe, kai to baptisma ho egō baptizomai baptisthēsesthe). Jesus prophesies James and John will share in His sufferings, though not in the way they imagine.<br...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(39) **And with the baptism.**—Here, as before, the clause is omitted in the best MSS. of St. Matthew, and is therefore, strictly speaking, peculiar to St. Mark.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**48. Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched--**See on Mt 5:30; The "unquenchablesness" of this fire has already been brought before us (see on Mt 3:12); and the awfully vivid idea of an undying worm, everlastingly consuming an unconsumable body, is taken from the closing words of the evangelical prophet (Is 66:24), which seem to have furnished the later Jewish Church with its cu...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 32-45** Christ's going on with his undertaking for the salvation of mankind, was, is, and will be, the wonder of all his disciples. Worldly honour is a glittering thing, with which the eyes of Christ's own disciples have many times been dazzled. Our care must be, that we may have wisdom and grace to know how to suffer with him; and we may trust him to provide what the degrees of our g...
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But to sit on my right hand and on my left hand is not mine to give; but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>But to sit on my right hand and on my left hand is not mine to give; but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared</strong> (τὸ δὲ καθίσαι ἐκ δεξιῶν μου ἢ ἐξ εὐωνύμων οὐκ ἔστιν ἐμὸν δοῦναι, ἀλλ᾽ οἷς ἡτοίμασται, to de kathisai ek dexiōn mou ē ex euōnymōn ouk estin emon dounai, all' hois hētoimastai). Jesus affirms divine sovereignty in kingdom appointments—positions of honor aren't ...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(40) **But it shall be given to them.**—Better, omitting the interpolated words, *is not Mine to give, but to those for whom it has been prepared.* Our Lord disclaims, not the power to give, but that of giving arbitrarily, otherwise than His Father willed.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**49. For every one shall be salted with fire, and every sacrifice shall be salted with salt--**A difficult verse, on which much has been written--some of it to little purpose. "Every one" probably means "Every follower of mine"; and the "fire" with which he "must be salted" probably means "a fiery trial" to season him. (Compare Mal 3:2, &amp;c.). The reference to salting the sacrifice is of cours...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 32-45** Christ's going on with his undertaking for the salvation of mankind, was, is, and will be, the wonder of all his disciples. Worldly honour is a glittering thing, with which the eyes of Christ's own disciples have many times been dazzled. Our care must be, that we may have wisdom and grace to know how to suffer with him; and we may trust him to provide what the degrees of our g...
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And when the ten heard it, they began to be much displeased with James and John.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And when the ten heard it, they began to be much displeased with James and John</strong> (ἤρξαντο ἀγανακτεῖν περὶ Ἰακώβου καὶ Ἰωάννου, ērxanto aganaktein peri Iakōbou kai Iōannou). The verb ἀγανακτεῖν (aganaktein) means "to be indignant, angry, greatly annoyed." The ten didn't respond with spiritual maturity or correction of James and John's error—they became angry because they wanted the ...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**50. Salt is good; but if the salt have lost his saltness--**its power to season what it is brought into contact with. **wherewith will ye season it?--**How is this property to be restored? See on Mt 5:13. **Have salt in yourselves--**See to it that ye retain in yourselves those precious qualities that will make you a blessing to one another, and to all around you. **and--**with respect to ...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 32-45** Christ's going on with his undertaking for the salvation of mankind, was, is, and will be, the wonder of all his disciples. Worldly honour is a glittering thing, with which the eyes of Christ's own disciples have many times been dazzled. Our care must be, that we may have wisdom and grace to know how to suffer with him; and we may trust him to provide what the degrees of our g...
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But Jesus called them to him, and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. are: or, think good

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>But Jesus called them to him, and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them</strong> (οἴδατε ὅτι οἱ δοκοῦντες ἄρχειν τῶν ἐθνῶν κατακυριεύουσιν αὐτῶν καὶ οἱ μεγάλοι αὐτῶν κατεξουσιάζουσιν αὐτῶν, oidate hoti hoi dokountes archein tōn ethnōn katakyrieuousin autōn kai hoi megal...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(42) **Exercise lordship. . . . exercise authority.**—On the force of the two words, see Note on Matthew 20:25.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 32-45** Christ's going on with his undertaking for the salvation of mankind, was, is, and will be, the wonder of all his disciples. Worldly honour is a glittering thing, with which the eyes of Christ's own disciples have many times been dazzled. Our care must be, that we may have wisdom and grace to know how to suffer with him; and we may trust him to provide what the degrees of our g...
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But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister:

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus taught kingdom principles: 'whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister' (ὃς ἂν θέλῃ γενέσθαι μέγας ἐν ὑμῖν, ἔσται ὑμῶν διάκονος). This inverts worldly hierarchy—greatness comes through service (diakonia, διακονία), not domination. The term 'minister' (diakonos, διάκονος) means servant or deacon—one who serves others' needs. True leadership in God's kingdom means sacrificial se...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(43) **Shall be your minister.**—Substantially the same as in St. Matthew, but note in both verses the variation, “*shall be* your minister,” “*shall be* servant,” instead of “let him be.”

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 32-45** Christ's going on with his undertaking for the salvation of mankind, was, is, and will be, the wonder of all his disciples. Worldly honour is a glittering thing, with which the eyes of Christ's own disciples have many times been dazzled. Our care must be, that we may have wisdom and grace to know how to suffer with him; and we may trust him to provide what the degrees of our g...
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And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all.

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus intensified His teaching: 'whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all' (ὃς ἂν θέλῃ ὑμῶν εἶναι πρῶτος, ἔσται πάντων δοῦλος). If 'great' requires being 'minister/servant' (v. 43), being 'chiefest' (prōtos, πρῶτος, first/foremost) requires being 'servant of all' (doulos pantōn, δοῦλος πάντων, slave of all). Jesus escalated from diakonos (minister) to doulos (slave/bondservan...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 32-45** Christ's going on with his undertaking for the salvation of mankind, was, is, and will be, the wonder of all his disciples. Worldly honour is a glittering thing, with which the eyes of Christ's own disciples have many times been dazzled. Our care must be, that we may have wisdom and grace to know how to suffer with him; and we may trust him to provide what the degrees of our g...
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For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.

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KJV Study Commentary

This verse articulates the heart of Christ's mission and the doctrine of substitutionary atonement. Jesus contrasts His purpose with worldly leadership—He "came not to be ministered unto, but to minister" (ouk ēlthen diakonēthēnai alla diakonēsai, οὐκ ἦλθεν διακονηθῆναι ἀλλὰ διακονῆσαι). The verb diakonēsai (διακονῆσαι, "to serve") denotes menial service, even table-waiting—a shocking role for the...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 32-45** Christ's going on with his undertaking for the salvation of mankind, was, is, and will be, the wonder of all his disciples. Worldly honour is a glittering thing, with which the eyes of Christ's own disciples have many times been dazzled. Our care must be, that we may have wisdom and grace to know how to suffer with him; and we may trust him to provide what the degrees of our g...
Read full commentary →

Jesus Heals Blind Bartimaeus

And they came to Jericho: and as he went out of Jericho with his disciples and a great number of people, blind Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, sat by the highway side begging.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And they came to Jericho: and as he went out of Jericho with his disciples and a great number of people, blind Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, sat by the highway side begging</strong> (Βαρτιμαῖος...τυφλὸς προσαίτης ἐκάθητο παρὰ τὴν ὁδόν, Bartimaios...typhlos prosaitēs ekathēto para tēn hodon). Mark identifies this beggar by name—Bartimaeus (Βαρτιμαῖος), Aramaic bar-Timai meaning "son of Ti...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(46-52) **And they came to Jericho.**—See Notes on Matthew 20:29-34. St. Mark agrees with St. Matthew in placing the miracle as the disciples were leaving Jericho, and differs from him in speaking of one blind man only, and in giving his name. **Blind Bartimæus.**—Better, as giving the same order as the Greek, *the son of Timœus, Bartimœus, a blind beggar was sitting by the wayside begging.* The l...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 46-52** Bartimeus had heard of Jesus and his miracles, and learning that he was passing by, hoped to recover his eyesight. In coming to Christ for help and healing, we should look to him as the promised Messiah. The gracious calls Christ gives us to come to him, encourage our hope, that if we come to him we shall have what we come for. Those who would come to Jesus, must cast away the...
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And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out, and say, Jesus, thou Son of David, have mercy on me.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out, and say, Jesus, thou Son of David, have mercy on me</strong> (ἤρξατο κράζειν καὶ λέγειν, Υἱὲ Δαυίδ Ἰησοῦ, ἐλέησόν με, ērxato krazein kai legein, Huie Dauid Iēsou, eleēson me). The verb κράζειν (krazein) means "to cry out loudly, shout"—Bartimaeus doesn't politely request but desperately cries out, refusing to be silenced...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 46-52** Bartimeus had heard of Jesus and his miracles, and learning that he was passing by, hoped to recover his eyesight. In coming to Christ for help and healing, we should look to him as the promised Messiah. The gracious calls Christ gives us to come to him, encourage our hope, that if we come to him we shall have what we come for. Those who would come to Jesus, must cast away the...
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And many charged him that he should hold his peace: but he cried the more a great deal, Thou Son of David, have mercy on me.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And many charged him that he should hold his peace: but he cried the more a great deal, Thou Son of David, have mercy on me</strong> (ἐπετίμων αὐτῷ ἵνα σιωπήσῃ· ὁ δὲ πολλῷ μᾶλλον ἔκραζεν, Υἱὲ Δαυίδ, ἐλέησόν με, epetimōn autō hina siōpēsē; ho de pollō mallon ekrazen, Huie Dauid, eleēson me). The verb ἐπετίμων (epetimōn, imperfect tense) means "they were rebuking him," indicating repeated, o...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 46-52** Bartimeus had heard of Jesus and his miracles, and learning that he was passing by, hoped to recover his eyesight. In coming to Christ for help and healing, we should look to him as the promised Messiah. The gracious calls Christ gives us to come to him, encourage our hope, that if we come to him we shall have what we come for. Those who would come to Jesus, must cast away the...
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And Jesus stood still, and commanded him to be called. And they call the blind man, saying unto him, Be of good comfort, rise; he calleth thee.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And Jesus stood still, and commanded him to be called</strong> (στὰς ὁ Ἰησοῦς εἶπεν Φωνήσατε αὐτόν, stas ho Iēsous eipen Phōnēsate auton). The participle στὰς (stas, "standing still") indicates Jesus stopped His journey—the same Jesus who "resolutely set His face toward Jerusalem" (Luke 9:51), determined to reach the cross, pauses for one blind beggar. This demonstrates Jesus' compassion a...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(49) **And commanded him to be called.**—The better MSS. give, more vividly, “and said, Call him.” **Be of good comfort.**—The cheering words of the disciples or by-standers are given by St. Mark only, as is also the eager action of the man “casting *off* his garment (*i.e.,* the outer mantle) and *leaping up.”* The Greek word, in the better MSS. is much stronger than the English “rose.”

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 46-52** Bartimeus had heard of Jesus and his miracles, and learning that he was passing by, hoped to recover his eyesight. In coming to Christ for help and healing, we should look to him as the promised Messiah. The gracious calls Christ gives us to come to him, encourage our hope, that if we come to him we shall have what we come for. Those who would come to Jesus, must cast away the...
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And he, casting away his garment, rose, and came to Jesus.

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KJV Study Commentary

This verse describes blind Bartimaeus' response to Jesus' call. The Greek apobálōn (ἀποβαλών, "casting away") indicates deliberate, forceful throwing off—not careful folding but urgent abandonment. The "garment" (himation, ἱμάτιον) likely refers to his outer cloak, which served as both clothing and blanket. For a blind beggar, this garment was probably his most valuable possession, used for warmth...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 46-52** Bartimeus had heard of Jesus and his miracles, and learning that he was passing by, hoped to recover his eyesight. In coming to Christ for help and healing, we should look to him as the promised Messiah. The gracious calls Christ gives us to come to him, encourage our hope, that if we come to him we shall have what we come for. Those who would come to Jesus, must cast away the...
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And Jesus answered and said unto him, What wilt thou that I should do unto thee? The blind man said unto him, Lord, that I might receive my sight.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And Jesus answered and said unto him, What wilt thou that I should do unto thee?</strong> (Τί σοι θέλεις ποιήσω, Ti soi theleis poiēsō). This question mirrors exactly what Jesus asked James and John in verse 36. The parallel is intentional and devastating—James and John requested positions of glory; Bartimaeus requests healing from blindness. The same question exposes radically different h...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(51) **Lord.**—Better *Rabboni,* the word being the same as in John 20:16, and occurring in these two passages only. The word was an augmentative form of Rabbi, and as such expressed greater reverence. It takes its place as another example of St. Mark’s fondness for reproducing the very syllables that were spoken.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 46-52** Bartimeus had heard of Jesus and his miracles, and learning that he was passing by, hoped to recover his eyesight. In coming to Christ for help and healing, we should look to him as the promised Messiah. The gracious calls Christ gives us to come to him, encourage our hope, that if we come to him we shall have what we come for. Those who would come to Jesus, must cast away the...
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And Jesus said unto him, Go thy way; thy faith hath made thee whole. And immediately he received his sight, and followed Jesus in the way. made: or, saved thee

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KJV Study Commentary

When Jesus healed blind Bartimaeus, He said: 'Go thy way; thy faith hath made thee whole' (Ὕπαγε, ἡ πίστις σου σέσωκέν σε). The verb 'made whole' (sesōken, σέσωκέν) means saved, healed, made whole—physical healing symbolizing spiritual salvation. Jesus attributed healing to 'thy faith' (hē pistis sou, ἡ πίστις σου)—not the man's merit but his trust in Christ. Bartimaeus demonstrated faith by: (1) ...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(52) **Followed Jesus in the way.**—We may reasonably infer from this that Bartimæus was one of those who went up with the travelling company to Jerusalem. The prominence which St. Mark gives to his name suggests the thought that he afterwards became more or less conspicuous in the Church of the Circumcision, his new-found gift of sight qualifying him to take his place among the eye-witnesses of t...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 46-52** Bartimeus had heard of Jesus and his miracles, and learning that he was passing by, hoped to recover his eyesight. In coming to Christ for help and healing, we should look to him as the promised Messiah. The gracious calls Christ gives us to come to him, encourage our hope, that if we come to him we shall have what we come for. Those who would come to Jesus, must cast away the...
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