About Mark

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

Author: John MarkWritten: c. AD 50-65Reading time: ~5 minVerses: 41
ServantActionAuthoritySufferingDiscipleshipMessianic Secret

King James Version

Mark 4

41 verses with commentary

The Parable of the Sower

And he began again to teach by the sea side: and there was gathered unto him a great multitude, so that he entered into a ship, and sat in the sea; and the whole multitude was by the sea on the land.

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus 'began again to teach by the sea side'—returning to familiar venue for public instruction. The crowd's size ('very great multitude') forced Him into boat while they stood on shore. This created natural amphitheater—water enhanced acoustics, distance prevented crushing crowds. The phrase 'in the sea' (ἐν τῇ θαλάσσῃ) means 'on the sea,' sitting in boat on water. His teaching method demonstrate...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

**IV.** (1-20) **He began.**—See Notes on Matthew 13:1-23.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 4 Chapter Outline The parable of the sower.(1-20) Other parables.(21-34) Christ stills the tempest.(35-41) **Verses 1-20** This parable contained instruction so important, that all capable of hearing were bound to attend to it. There are many things we are concerned to know; and if we understand not the plain truths of the gospel, how shall we learn those more difficu...
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And he taught them many things by parables, and said unto them in his doctrine,

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And he taught them many things by parables, and said unto them in his doctrine.</strong> Jesus' teaching method through parables (παραβολαῖς, parabolais) represents a divine pedagogical strategy. A parable (from παραβολή, parabolē, 'to cast alongside') places a spiritual truth alongside a familiar earthly story, illuminating divine realities through accessible imagery. Jesus taught 'many t...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(2) **In his doctrine.**—Better, *in His teaching.*

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 4 Chapter Outline The parable of the sower.(1-20) Other parables.(21-34) Christ stills the tempest.(35-41) **Verses 1-20** This parable contained instruction so important, that all capable of hearing were bound to attend to it. There are many things we are concerned to know; and if we understand not the plain truths of the gospel, how shall we learn those more difficu...
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Hearken; Behold, there went out a sower to sow:

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus commands: 'Hearken; Behold, there went out a sower to sow.' The double imperative—'Hearken' (Ἀκούετε, listen attentively) and 'Behold' (ἰδοὺ, look, pay attention)—emphasizes the parable's importance. These commands demand focused, responsive listening, not casual hearing. The parable's subject is universal: a farmer sowing seed. In agrarian society, everyone understood sowing—scattering seed...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(3) **A sower.**—Better, *the* sower.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 4 Chapter Outline The parable of the sower.(1-20) Other parables.(21-34) Christ stills the tempest.(35-41) **Verses 1-20** This parable contained instruction so important, that all capable of hearing were bound to attend to it. There are many things we are concerned to know; and if we understand not the plain truths of the gospel, how shall we learn those more difficu...
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And it came to pass, as he sowed, some fell by the way side, and the fowls of the air came and devoured it up.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And it came to pass, as he sowed, some fell by the way side, and the fowls of the air came and devoured it up.</strong> This verse begins the Parable of the Sower, Jesus' foundational teaching on receiving God's word. The sower 'sows the word' (v. 14)—representing gospel proclamation. Seed falling 'by the way side' (παρὰ τὴν ὁδόν, para tēn hodon) describes the hardened path trampled by foo...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 4 Chapter Outline The parable of the sower.(1-20) Other parables.(21-34) Christ stills the tempest.(35-41) **Verses 1-20** This parable contained instruction so important, that all capable of hearing were bound to attend to it. There are many things we are concerned to know; and if we understand not the plain truths of the gospel, how shall we learn those more difficu...
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And some fell on stony ground, where it had not much earth; and immediately it sprang up, because it had no depth of earth:

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KJV Study Commentary

Some seed 'fell on stony ground, where it had not much earth; and immediately it sprang up, because it had no depth of earth.' Rocky ground (limestone bedrock with thin topsoil) allowed germination but prevented root development. The phrase 'immediately it sprang up' (εὐθὺς ἐξανέτειλεν) indicates rapid, enthusiastic growth—deceptively promising but unsustainable. Shallow roots couldn't access mois...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 4 Chapter Outline The parable of the sower.(1-20) Other parables.(21-34) Christ stills the tempest.(35-41) **Verses 1-20** This parable contained instruction so important, that all capable of hearing were bound to attend to it. There are many things we are concerned to know; and if we understand not the plain truths of the gospel, how shall we learn those more difficu...
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But when the sun was up, it was scorched; and because it had no root, it withered away.

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KJV Study Commentary

The seed in shallow soil 'when the sun was up, it was scorched; and because it had no root, it withered away.' The sun—normally beneficial for growth—becomes destructive when roots are inadequate. Scorching (κατεκαύθη, katekauthe) and withering (ἐξηράνθη, exēranthē) indicate complete destruction. The causal phrase 'because it had no root' explains failure: insufficient foundation couldn't sustain ...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 4 Chapter Outline The parable of the sower.(1-20) Other parables.(21-34) Christ stills the tempest.(35-41) **Verses 1-20** This parable contained instruction so important, that all capable of hearing were bound to attend to it. There are many things we are concerned to know; and if we understand not the plain truths of the gospel, how shall we learn those more difficu...
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And some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up, and choked it, and it yielded no fruit.

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KJV Study Commentary

Other seed 'fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up, and choked it, and it yielded no fruit.' The seed germinates successfully, begins growing, but gets overwhelmed by competing vegetation. 'Choked' (συνέπνιξαν, synepnixan) means suffocated, strangled—aggressive thorns crowding out grain. The result: 'no fruit' (οὐκ ἔδωκεν καρπόν)—complete failure despite initial promise. Jesus later explains th...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 4 Chapter Outline The parable of the sower.(1-20) Other parables.(21-34) Christ stills the tempest.(35-41) **Verses 1-20** This parable contained instruction so important, that all capable of hearing were bound to attend to it. There are many things we are concerned to know; and if we understand not the plain truths of the gospel, how shall we learn those more difficu...
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And other fell on good ground, and did yield fruit that sprang up and increased; and brought forth, some thirty, and some sixty, and some an hundred.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>And other fell on good ground, and did yield fruit that sprang up and increased; and brought forth, some thirty, and some sixty, and some an hundred.</strong> This climactic description of the fourth soil contrasts sharply with the previous three failed soils. 'Good ground' (τὴν γῆν τὴν καλήν, tēn gēn tēn kalēn) represents receptive hearts prepared by the Spirit to receive God's word. The ...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(8) **Some thirty** **. . .**—For the most part the parable is almost verbally identical with that in St. Matthew. Here, however, we note the difference, sufficient to establish a certain measure of independence, of an ascending instead of a descending scale.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 4 Chapter Outline The parable of the sower.(1-20) Other parables.(21-34) Christ stills the tempest.(35-41) **Verses 1-20** This parable contained instruction so important, that all capable of hearing were bound to attend to it. There are many things we are concerned to know; and if we understand not the plain truths of the gospel, how shall we learn those more difficu...
Read full commentary →

And he said unto them, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus concludes the parable: 'He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.' This isn't merely physical hearing but spiritual comprehension and obedient response. The phrase 'hath ears' (ἔχει ὦτα) assumes everyone has physical ears, but spiritual hearing requires God-given capacity. The command 'let him hear' (ἀκουέτω, imperative) calls for active, attentive listening that leads to transformation. This...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 4 Chapter Outline The parable of the sower.(1-20) Other parables.(21-34) Christ stills the tempest.(35-41) **Verses 1-20** This parable contained instruction so important, that all capable of hearing were bound to attend to it. There are many things we are concerned to know; and if we understand not the plain truths of the gospel, how shall we learn those more difficu...
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The Purpose of the Parables

And when he was alone, they that were about him with the twelve asked of him the parable.

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KJV Study Commentary

When alone, 'they that were about him with the twelve asked of him the parable.' This group includes the Twelve plus wider circle of disciples. Their question demonstrates humility—they admitted not understanding. Privacy allowed honest inquiry without public embarrassment. The phrase 'asked of him' (ἠρώτων, imperfect tense) indicates persistent, repeated questioning. True disciples seek understan...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(10) **They that were about him.**—In St. Matthew, simply, “the disciples.” Here the presence of others besides the Twelve is directly asserted.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 4 Chapter Outline The parable of the sower.(1-20) Other parables.(21-34) Christ stills the tempest.(35-41) **Verses 1-20** This parable contained instruction so important, that all capable of hearing were bound to attend to it. There are many things we are concerned to know; and if we understand not the plain truths of the gospel, how shall we learn those more difficu...
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And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables:

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KJV Study Commentary

He said unto them Unto you it is given to know mystery of kingdom of God but unto them that are without all things are done in parables. He said legei Jesus explains parable purpose. Unto you humin disciples chosen ones. It is given dedotai divine passive God gives. Know gnōnai understand perceive. Mystery mystērion hidden truth now revealed. Kingdom of God basileia tou theou God sovereign rule. B...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(11) **Unto them that are without.**—The form of the phrase is peculiar to St. Mark; St. Matthew giving, “to them,” and St. Luke, “to the rest.”

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 4 Chapter Outline The parable of the sower.(1-20) Other parables.(21-34) Christ stills the tempest.(35-41) **Verses 1-20** This parable contained instruction so important, that all capable of hearing were bound to attend to it. There are many things we are concerned to know; and if we understand not the plain truths of the gospel, how shall we learn those more difficu...
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That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them.

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus quotes Isaiah 6:9-10: 'That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them.' This difficult text reveals judicial hardening—repeated rejection of truth results in God-given inability to perceive. The grammar 'that...lest' (ἵνα...μήποτε) can express purpose or result. Eithe...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(12) **That seeing they may see**. . . .—St. Mark characteristically gives the words of Isaiah 6:9, but not as a quotation, and perhaps in a less accurate form, and omits the addition in Matthew, “Blessed are your ears . . .” The form in this instance, at first sight, suggests the thought that our Lord’s purpose was to produce the blindness and deafness of which He speaks. The real meaning of the ...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 4 Chapter Outline The parable of the sower.(1-20) Other parables.(21-34) Christ stills the tempest.(35-41) **Verses 1-20** This parable contained instruction so important, that all capable of hearing were bound to attend to it. There are many things we are concerned to know; and if we understand not the plain truths of the gospel, how shall we learn those more difficu...
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And he said unto them, Know ye not this parable? and how then will ye know all parables?

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus asks: 'Know ye not this parable? and how then will ye know all parables?' This mild rebuke expresses surprise at disciples' incomprehension. The Sower parable is foundational—if they don't understand this basic teaching, how will they grasp more complex truths? The verb 'know' (οἴδατε/γνώσεσθε) appears twice with different nuances: οἴδατε (intuitive knowledge) and γνώσεσθε (acquired understa...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(13) **How then will ye know all parables?**—The question is peculiar to St. Mark, and suggests the thought of our Lord as contemplating for His disciples an ever-growing insight, not only into His own spoken parables, but into those of nature and of life. But if they were such slow scholars in this early stage, how was that insight to be imparted? The question is followed up by the answer. The fi...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 4 Chapter Outline The parable of the sower.(1-20) Other parables.(21-34) Christ stills the tempest.(35-41) **Verses 1-20** This parable contained instruction so important, that all capable of hearing were bound to attend to it. There are many things we are concerned to know; and if we understand not the plain truths of the gospel, how shall we learn those more difficu...
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The sower soweth the word.

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus provides interpretation: 'The sower soweth the word.' This identifies the seed as God's word—the gospel message, divine revelation, kingdom teaching. The sower represents Jesus primarily, but extends to all who proclaim God's word. The simplicity is profound: Christian ministry is sowing seed—proclaiming Scripture faithfully, leaving results to God. The minister's task isn't producing growth...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 4 Chapter Outline The parable of the sower.(1-20) Other parables.(21-34) Christ stills the tempest.(35-41) **Verses 1-20** This parable contained instruction so important, that all capable of hearing were bound to attend to it. There are many things we are concerned to know; and if we understand not the plain truths of the gospel, how shall we learn those more difficu...
Read full commentary →

And these are they by the way side, where the word is sown; but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts.

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus explains the path-seed: 'these are they by the way side, where the word is sown; but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts.' The path (hardened by constant trampling) represents hardened hearts impervious to gospel penetration. Seed remains on surface where birds devour it. Satan actively opposes gospel reception—'cometh immedi...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(15) **In their hearts.**—The better MSS. give simply, “in them.”

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 4 Chapter Outline The parable of the sower.(1-20) Other parables.(21-34) Christ stills the tempest.(35-41) **Verses 1-20** This parable contained instruction so important, that all capable of hearing were bound to attend to it. There are many things we are concerned to know; and if we understand not the plain truths of the gospel, how shall we learn those more difficu...
Read full commentary →

And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness;

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus explains rocky-ground hearers: 'these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness.' The emotional, enthusiastic reception ('immediately...with gladness,' εὐθὺς μετὰ χαρᾶς) seems promising but proves superficial. The word 'receive' (λαμβάνουσιν) indicates initial acceptance without depth. This describes false conve...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 4 Chapter Outline The parable of the sower.(1-20) Other parables.(21-34) Christ stills the tempest.(35-41) **Verses 1-20** This parable contained instruction so important, that all capable of hearing were bound to attend to it. There are many things we are concerned to know; and if we understand not the plain truths of the gospel, how shall we learn those more difficu...
Read full commentary →

And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word's sake, immediately they are offended. offended: or, stumbled, or, caused to fall into sin

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus continues: 'And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word's sake, immediately they are offended.' The phrase 'no root in themselves' (οὐκ ἔχουσιν ῥίζαν ἐν ἑαυτοῖς) indicates lack of internal reality—profession without regeneration, enthusiasm without transformation. They 'endure but for a time' (πρόσκαιροί εἰσιν)—...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 4 Chapter Outline The parable of the sower.(1-20) Other parables.(21-34) Christ stills the tempest.(35-41) **Verses 1-20** This parable contained instruction so important, that all capable of hearing were bound to attend to it. There are many things we are concerned to know; and if we understand not the plain truths of the gospel, how shall we learn those more difficu...
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And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word,

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus explains thorny-ground hearers: 'And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word.' These hearers don't immediately reject (like path) or quickly fall away (like rocks) but experience gradual suffocation of spiritual vitality. The seed germinates and grows but gets choked by competing vegetation. This represents professing believers whose faith is progressively strangled...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 4 Chapter Outline The parable of the sower.(1-20) Other parables.(21-34) Christ stills the tempest.(35-41) **Verses 1-20** This parable contained instruction so important, that all capable of hearing were bound to attend to it. There are many things we are concerned to know; and if we understand not the plain truths of the gospel, how shall we learn those more difficu...
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And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful. lusts: or, inordinate desires

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus identifies three thorns: 'the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful.' (1) 'Cares of this world' (αἱ μέριμναι τοῦ αἰῶνος)—anxious worry about temporal concerns, legitimate needs becoming consuming preoccupations. (2) 'Deceitfulness of riches' (ἡ ἀπάτη τοῦ πλούτου)—wealth's deceptive promise o...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 4 Chapter Outline The parable of the sower.(1-20) Other parables.(21-34) Christ stills the tempest.(35-41) **Verses 1-20** This parable contained instruction so important, that all capable of hearing were bound to attend to it. There are many things we are concerned to know; and if we understand not the plain truths of the gospel, how shall we learn those more difficu...
Read full commentary →

And these are they which are sown on good ground; such as hear the word, and receive it, and bring forth fruit, some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some an hundred.

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus describes good soil: 'And these are they which are sown on good ground; such as hear the word, and receive it, and bring forth fruit, some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some an hundred.' Good soil hearers: (1) 'hear the word' (ἀκούουσιν)—attentive reception, (2) 'receive it' (παραδέχονται)—welcome and embrace it, (3) 'bring forth fruit' (καρποφοροῦσιν)—produce observable results. Fruit varies ...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 4 Chapter Outline The parable of the sower.(1-20) Other parables.(21-34) Christ stills the tempest.(35-41) **Verses 1-20** This parable contained instruction so important, that all capable of hearing were bound to attend to it. There are many things we are concerned to know; and if we understand not the plain truths of the gospel, how shall we learn those more difficu...
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A Lamp Under a Basket

And he said unto them, Is a candle brought to be put under a bushel, or under a bed? and not to be set on a candlestick? bushel: the word in the original signifieth a less measure

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus asks rhetorical question: 'Is a candle brought to be put under a bushel, or under a bed? and not to be set on a candlestick?' The 'candle' (λύχνος, lychnosλαμπάς) represents revealed truth, particularly gospel light. The absurdity of lighting lamp only to hide it under bushel (grain measure) or bed illustrates that revelation demands proclamation. Truth isn't given to be concealed but displa...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(21) **Is a candle brought to be put under a bushel**?—See Note on Matthew 5:15. St. Mark, it will be noted, omits all the other parables that follow in St. Matthew, and connects with that of the Sower sayings more or less proverbial, which in St. Matthew appear in a different context. Looking at our Lord’s method of teaching by the repetition of proverbs under different aspects and on different o...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 21-34** These declarations were intended to call the attention of the disciples to the word of Christ. By his thus instructing them, they were made able to instruct others; as candles are lighted, not to be covered, but to be placed on a candlestick, that they may give light to a room. This parable of the good seed, shows the manner in which the kingdom of God makes progress in the wo...
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For there is nothing hid , which shall not be manifested; neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad .

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus declares universal principle: 'For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested; neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad.' All hidden things will eventually be revealed. This applies multiple ways: (1) Kingdom mysteries now veiled will be unveiled, (2) Secret sins will be exposed in judgment, (3) Gospel truth, though rejected now, will be vindicated. The doub...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(22) **For there is nothing hid.**—This also is found elsewhere (*e.g.,* in Matthew 10:26). The Greek word here for “secret” is interesting as being the same as that which we find in our word “Apocrypha.” The term was, in the first instance, applied to books that were surrounded with the secrecy of a spurious sacred-ness, but were not publicly recognised in the Church as being of divine authority,...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 21-34** These declarations were intended to call the attention of the disciples to the word of Christ. By his thus instructing them, they were made able to instruct others; as candles are lighted, not to be covered, but to be placed on a candlestick, that they may give light to a room. This parable of the good seed, shows the manner in which the kingdom of God makes progress in the wo...
Read full commentary →

If any man have ears to hear, let him hear.

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus repeats the hearing formula: 'If any man have ears to hear, let him hear.' The conditional 'if' (εἴ τις) emphasizes individual responsibility—those with spiritual ears must use them. This second occurrence (also v. 9) brackets the parable explanation, reinforcing the central theme: how one hears determines spiritual condition. The imperative 'let him hear' (ἀκουέτω) demands active, obedient ...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 21-34** These declarations were intended to call the attention of the disciples to the word of Christ. By his thus instructing them, they were made able to instruct others; as candles are lighted, not to be covered, but to be placed on a candlestick, that they may give light to a room. This parable of the good seed, shows the manner in which the kingdom of God makes progress in the wo...
Read full commentary →

And he said unto them, Take heed what ye hear: with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you: and unto you that hear shall more be given.

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus warns: 'Take heed what ye hear: with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you: and unto you that hear shall more be given.' The command 'take heed' (βλέπετε) means careful attention to quality and content of teaching received. The principle 'with what measure ye mete' teaches that receptivity determines reward—those who eagerly receive truth gain more understanding; those who neglec...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(24) **With what measure ye mete.**—See Note on Matthew 7:2. The proverb furnishes a good illustration of what has just been said as to our Lord’s method of presenting the same truth under different aspects. In the Sermon on the Mount it appears as the law of retribution, which brings pardon to those who pardon, judgment without mercy to those who show no mercy. Here the law works in another regio...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 21-34** These declarations were intended to call the attention of the disciples to the word of Christ. By his thus instructing them, they were made able to instruct others; as candles are lighted, not to be covered, but to be placed on a candlestick, that they may give light to a room. This parable of the good seed, shows the manner in which the kingdom of God makes progress in the wo...
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For he that hath, to him shall be given: and he that hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he hath.

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus states paradoxical principle: 'For he that hath, to him shall be given: and he that hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he hath.' This seems unfair superficially but reveals spiritual reality: those with genuine faith (who 'have') receive increasing understanding and blessing; those without genuine faith (who 'have not') lose even apparent blessings. The phrase 'even that which...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(25) **For he that hath.**—See Note on Matthew 13:12.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 21-34** These declarations were intended to call the attention of the disciples to the word of Christ. By his thus instructing them, they were made able to instruct others; as candles are lighted, not to be covered, but to be placed on a candlestick, that they may give light to a room. This parable of the good seed, shows the manner in which the kingdom of God makes progress in the wo...
Read full commentary →

The Parable of the Growing Seed

And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground;

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus introduces another kingdom parable: 'So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground.' This parable (unique to Mark) emphasizes seed's inherent power and mysterious growth independent of human effort. The farmer sows seed—representing gospel proclamation—then resumes normal life. The focus shifts from sower to seed's mysterious germination and growth. This teaches that...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(26) **As** if **a man should cast seed into the ground.**—What follows has the special interest of being the only parable peculiar to St. Mark, one therefore which had escaped the manifest eagerness of St. Matthew and St. Luke to gather up all that they could find of this form of our Lord’s teaching. It runs to some extent parallel with the parable of the Sower, as though it had been given as ano...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 21-34** These declarations were intended to call the attention of the disciples to the word of Christ. By his thus instructing them, they were made able to instruct others; as candles are lighted, not to be covered, but to be placed on a candlestick, that they may give light to a room. This parable of the good seed, shows the manner in which the kingdom of God makes progress in the wo...
Read full commentary →

And should sleep, and rise night and day, and the seed should spring and grow up, he knoweth not how.

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus continues: 'And should sleep, and rise night and day, and the seed should spring and grow up, he knoweth not how.' The farmer's normal routine ('sleep, rise night and day') continues while mysterious growth occurs. The phrase 'he knoweth not how' (ὡς οὐκ οἶδεν αὐτός) emphasizes human ignorance of growth mechanics. Ancient farmers couldn't explain biology, photosynthesis, or cellular reproduc...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(27) **And should sleep, and rise.**—So it was in the world’s history. Men knew not the greatness of the new force that had been brought into action. Philosophers and statesmen ignored it. Even the very preachers of the new faith, the “sowers” of the parable, were hardly conscious of the enormous revolution which they were working. So it is in the individual life. The seemingly chance word, the ne...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 21-34** These declarations were intended to call the attention of the disciples to the word of Christ. By his thus instructing them, they were made able to instruct others; as candles are lighted, not to be covered, but to be placed on a candlestick, that they may give light to a room. This parable of the good seed, shows the manner in which the kingdom of God makes progress in the wo...
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For the earth bringeth forth fruit of herself; first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear.

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus describes growth stages: 'For the earth bringeth forth fruit of herself; first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear.' The phrase 'of herself' (αὐτομάτη, automatē—automatically, spontaneously) emphasizes soil's inherent productivity when seed is planted. Growth progresses through stages: 'blade' (χόρτον, tender shoot), 'ear' (στάχυν, head of grain), 'full corn' (πλήρης...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(28) **The earth bringeth forth fruit of** **herself.**—Stress is laid on the spontaneity of growth; and the lesson drawn from it is obviously one at once of patience and of faith. It is not well in the spiritual husbandry, either of the nations of the world or of individual souls, to be taking up the seeds to see whether they are growing. It is wiser to sow the seed, and to believe that sun and r...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 21-34** These declarations were intended to call the attention of the disciples to the word of Christ. By his thus instructing them, they were made able to instruct others; as candles are lighted, not to be covered, but to be placed on a candlestick, that they may give light to a room. This parable of the good seed, shows the manner in which the kingdom of God makes progress in the wo...
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But when the fruit is brought forth, immediately he putteth in the sickle, because the harvest is come. brought: or, ripe

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus concludes parable: 'But when the fruit is brought forth, immediately he putteth in the sickle, because the harvest is come.' Mature grain demands harvesting—delay means loss. 'Immediately' (εὐθὺς) indicates urgent action when grain ripens. The 'sickle' (δρέπανον) represents judgment/gathering at kingdom consummation. This connects to Joel 3:13 and Revelation 14:15—harvest imagery for final j...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(29) **He putteth in the sickle.**—From one point of view, here again, the harvest is the end of the world (Matthew 13:39), and the putting in the sickle is the coming of Christ to judge. (Comp. the use of the same image in Revelation 14:14-18.) From the other, the harvest is the end of each man’s life, and the sickle is in the hands of the Angel of Death.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 21-34** These declarations were intended to call the attention of the disciples to the word of Christ. By his thus instructing them, they were made able to instruct others; as candles are lighted, not to be covered, but to be placed on a candlestick, that they may give light to a room. This parable of the good seed, shows the manner in which the kingdom of God makes progress in the wo...
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The Parable of the Mustard Seed

And he said, Whereunto shall we liken the kingdom of God? or with what comparison shall we compare it?

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus introduces final parable: 'Whereunto shall we liken the kingdom of God? or with what comparison shall we compare it?' The rhetorical questions emphasize kingdom's uniqueness—difficult to capture in human analogies. The plural 'we' includes hearers in reflection. This introduces the mustard seed parable, illustrating kingdom's small beginnings and great culmination. The humble question-approa...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(30) **With what comparison shall we compare it?**—Literally, *By what parable shall we set it forth?* The question which introduces the parable is in St. Mark and St. Luke, but not in St. Matthew. It gives us the impression of a question asked, in order to put the minds of the hearers on the stretch, so that they might welcome the answer.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 21-34** These declarations were intended to call the attention of the disciples to the word of Christ. By his thus instructing them, they were made able to instruct others; as candles are lighted, not to be covered, but to be placed on a candlestick, that they may give light to a room. This parable of the good seed, shows the manner in which the kingdom of God makes progress in the wo...
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It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when it is sown in the earth, is less than all the seeds that be in the earth:

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus answers His question: 'It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when it is sown in the earth, is less than all the seeds that be in the earth.' The mustard seed (σίναπι, sinapi) was proverbially small—'less than all seeds' (μικρότερον...πάντων τῶν σπερμάτων) is hyperbolic but makes the point: exceptionally small beginning. This represents kingdom's humble origins—crucified carpenter, twelv...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(31-32) I**t is like a grain of mustard seed.**—See Notes on Matthew 13:31-32. Slight variations in this report are (1) the “great branches,” and (2) the birds lodging “under the shadow” of the tree.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 21-34** These declarations were intended to call the attention of the disciples to the word of Christ. By his thus instructing them, they were made able to instruct others; as candles are lighted, not to be covered, but to be placed on a candlestick, that they may give light to a room. This parable of the good seed, shows the manner in which the kingdom of God makes progress in the wo...
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But when it is sown, it groweth up, and becometh greater than all herbs, and shooteth out great branches; so that the fowls of the air may lodge under the shadow of it.

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KJV Study Commentary

Jesus describes transformation: 'But when it is sown, it groweth up, and becometh greater than all herbs, and shooteth out great branches; so that the fowls of the air may lodge under the shadow of it.' The contrast is dramatic: smallest seed → greatest herb (garden plant). 'Great branches' provide shelter for 'fowls'—possibly alluding to Daniel 4:12, 21 where great tree represents kingdom shelter...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 21-34** These declarations were intended to call the attention of the disciples to the word of Christ. By his thus instructing them, they were made able to instruct others; as candles are lighted, not to be covered, but to be placed on a candlestick, that they may give light to a room. This parable of the good seed, shows the manner in which the kingdom of God makes progress in the wo...
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And with many such parables spake he the word unto them, as they were able to hear it.

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KJV Study Commentary

Mark summarizes Jesus' teaching method: 'And with many such parables spake he the word unto them, as they were able to hear it.' The phrase 'many such parables' indicates Jesus used numerous similar illustrations beyond those recorded. He 'spake the word' (ἐλάλει...τὸν λόγον)—proclaimed God's message. The qualifier 'as they were able to hear' (καθὼς ἠδύναντο ἀκούειν) shows pedagogical wisdom: Jesu...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(33-34) **And with many such parables.**—See Notes on Matthew 13:34-35. St. Mark’s omission of the reference to Psalm 78:2, and his addition of “as they were able to hear it,” are, each of them, characteristic. It may be noted that the “many such parables” of St. Mark imply something like the series which we find in St. Matthew.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 21-34** These declarations were intended to call the attention of the disciples to the word of Christ. By his thus instructing them, they were made able to instruct others; as candles are lighted, not to be covered, but to be placed on a candlestick, that they may give light to a room. This parable of the good seed, shows the manner in which the kingdom of God makes progress in the wo...
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But without a parable spake he not unto them: and when they were alone , he expounded all things to his disciples.

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KJV Study Commentary

Mark explains: 'But without a parable spake he not unto them: and when they were alone, he expounded all things to his disciples.' Public teaching used parables exclusively; private instruction provided explanation. 'Without a parable spake he not' (χωρὶς παραβολῆς οὐκ ἐλάλει) indicates consistent method during this period. 'When alone' (κατ' ἰδίαν) Jesus 'expounded' (ἐπέλυεν—interpreted, explaine...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(34) **He expounded.**—The word may be noted as being the verb from which is formed the noun “interpretation” in 2Peter 1:20, and so takes its place in the coincidences of phraseology which connect that Epistle with this Gospel. (See *Introduction.*)

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 21-34** These declarations were intended to call the attention of the disciples to the word of Christ. By his thus instructing them, they were made able to instruct others; as candles are lighted, not to be covered, but to be placed on a candlestick, that they may give light to a room. This parable of the good seed, shows the manner in which the kingdom of God makes progress in the wo...
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Jesus Calms the Storm

And the same day, when the even was come, he saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side.

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KJV Study Commentary

This transitional verse sets up one of Jesus's most powerful nature miracles. The phrase "on that day" (ἐν ἐκείνῃ τῇ ἡμέρᾳ, en ekeinē tē hēmera) connects to Jesus's extensive parable teaching earlier in Mark 4—He'd been teaching crowds from a boat on the Sea of Galilee about the Kingdom of God. The temporal marker "when evening had come" (ὀψίας γενομένης, opsias genomenēs) indicates exhaustion aft...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(35-41) **And the same day.**—Better, *in that day.* See Notes on Matthew 8:23-27. The connection of the events, as given by St. Mark, seems to be precise enough, but it differs widely from that in St. Matthew and St. Luke, and it must remain uncertain which was the actual order. **The other side.**—The voyage was from Capernaum—from the west to the east side of the lake.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 35-41** Christ was asleep in the storm, to try the faith of his disciples, and to stir them up to pray. Their faith appeared weak, and their prayers strong. When our wicked hearts are like the troubled sea which cannot rest, when our passions are unruly, let us think we hear the law of Christ, saying, Be silent, be dumb. When without are fightings, and within are fears, and the spirit...
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And when they had sent away the multitude, they took him even as he was in the ship. And there were also with him other little ships.

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KJV Study Commentary

The disciples took Jesus 'even as he was in the ship'—no preparation or provisions, just immediate departure. The phrase 'even as he was' (ὡς ἦν) suggests Jesus remained in the teaching boat, exhausted from ministry. 'There were also with him other little ships'—multiple boats crossed together. This detail, characteristic of Mark's vivid eyewitness account, sets stage for miracle witnessed by many...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(36) **They took him even as he was.**—The phrase is peculiar to this Gospel, and seems to point to the impression made on the mind of St. Mark’s informant by the utter exhaustion that followed on the long day’s labours. St. John’s statement that our Lord, on His journey through Samaria, “being wearied . . . sat thus on the well” (John 4:6), presents an interesting parallel.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 35-41** Christ was asleep in the storm, to try the faith of his disciples, and to stir them up to pray. Their faith appeared weak, and their prayers strong. When our wicked hearts are like the troubled sea which cannot rest, when our passions are unruly, let us think we hear the law of Christ, saying, Be silent, be dumb. When without are fightings, and within are fears, and the spirit...
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And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full.

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KJV Study Commentary

A storm arose: 'there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full.' The verb 'arose' (γίνεται, present tense) dramatically portrays storm's sudden development. 'Great storm' (λαῖλαψ μεγάλη μεγάλη—literally 'great tempest') indicates violent squall. Waves 'beat into' (ἐπέβαλλεν) the boat—aggressive, pounding action. The result: ship 'now full' (ἤδη γεμίζεσ...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(37) **Beat into the ship, so that it was now full.**—Better, *were beating upon the ship, so that it was filling.* Both verbs describe continuous action.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

CHAPTER 4 Mr 4:1-34. Parable of the Sower--Reason for Teaching in Parables--Parables of the Seed Growing We Know Not How, and of the Mustard Seed. ( = Mt 13:1-23, 31, 32; Lu 8:4-18). **1. And he began again to teach by the seaside: and there was gathered unto him a great multitude--**or, according to another well-supported reading, "a mighty" or "immense multitude." **so that he entered into a ...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 35-41** Christ was asleep in the storm, to try the faith of his disciples, and to stir them up to pray. Their faith appeared weak, and their prayers strong. When our wicked hearts are like the troubled sea which cannot rest, when our passions are unruly, let us think we hear the law of Christ, saying, Be silent, be dumb. When without are fightings, and within are fears, and the spirit...
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And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish?

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KJV Study Commentary

Contrast intensifies: 'he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow.' While disciples panic, Jesus sleeps peacefully. The 'hinder part' (πρύμνῃ) was stern, slightly elevated—common sleeping place. 'Asleep on a pillow' (καθεύδων ἐπὶ τὸ προσκεφάλαιον) shows deep sleep despite violent storm—evidence of humanity (exhaustion) and deity (peace amid chaos). Disciples wake Him: 'Master, cares...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(38) **Asleep on a pillow.**—Better, on *the* pillow—the cushion commonly to be found in the boat’s stern. **Carest thou not that we perish?**—St. Mark alone gives this touch of despairing expostulation, in which we trace the specific want of faith which was afterwards reproved.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**2. And he taught them many things by parables, and said unto them in his doctrine--**or "teaching." Parable of the Sower (Mr 4:3-9, 13-20). Mr 4:3, 14. The Sower, the Seed, and the Soil.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 35-41** Christ was asleep in the storm, to try the faith of his disciples, and to stir them up to pray. Their faith appeared weak, and their prayers strong. When our wicked hearts are like the troubled sea which cannot rest, when our passions are unruly, let us think we hear the law of Christ, saying, Be silent, be dumb. When without are fightings, and within are fears, and the spirit...
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And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.

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KJV Study Commentary

He arose rebuked wind said unto sea Peace be still and wind ceased was great calm. He arose egertheis rose up from sleep. Rebuked epetimēsen authoritatively commanded. Wind anemo. Said eipen directly addressed. Unto sea tē thalassē personified. Peace be still siōpa pephimōso literally be silent be muzzled. Same word used silencing demons (1:25). Treats storm as personal being. And kai consecutive....
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(39) **Peace, be still.**—Literally, *be still, be silenced,* The latter word is the same as that used of the man who had not on a wedding garment, and was “speechless” (Matthew 22:12). Note the vividness with which St. Mark gives the very words addressed to the raging sea, as though it were a hostile power rising in rebellion against its true Lord. **The wind ceased.**—Better, *lulled.* Ellic...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**3. Hearken; Behold, there went out a sower to sow--**What means this? See on Mr 4:14. First Case: The Wayside. (Mr 4:4, 15).

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 35-41** Christ was asleep in the storm, to try the faith of his disciples, and to stir them up to pray. Their faith appeared weak, and their prayers strong. When our wicked hearts are like the troubled sea which cannot rest, when our passions are unruly, let us think we hear the law of Christ, saying, Be silent, be dumb. When without are fightings, and within are fears, and the spirit...
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And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith?

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KJV Study Commentary

He said Why are ye so fearful how is it ye have no faith. Why ti interrogative. So fearful deiloi cowardly timid. How is it pōs. Ye have no faith ouk echete pistin lacking trust confidence. Question exposes disciples lack of faith despite presence of Christ. Storm caused fear despite Jesus presence. Faith and fear incompatible. Fear reveals unbelief. True faith rests in Christ character power desp...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**4. And it came to pass, as he sowed, some fell by the wayside--**by the side of the hard path through the field, where the soil was not broken up. **and the fowls of the air came and devoured it up--**Not only could the seed not get beneath the surface, but "it was trodden down" (Lu 8:5), and afterwards picked up and devoured by the fowls. What means this? See on Mr 4:15. Second Case: The S...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 35-41** Christ was asleep in the storm, to try the faith of his disciples, and to stir them up to pray. Their faith appeared weak, and their prayers strong. When our wicked hearts are like the troubled sea which cannot rest, when our passions are unruly, let us think we hear the law of Christ, saying, Be silent, be dumb. When without are fightings, and within are fears, and the spirit...
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And they feared exceedingly , and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?

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KJV Study Commentary

The disciples 'feared exceedingly' (ἐφοβήθησαν φόβον μέγαν—'feared a great fear') and asked: 'What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?' Their fear shifted from storm to Jesus—not terror but awe, reverent wonder at His power. The question 'What manner of man?' (Τίς ἄρα οὗτός ἐστιν) expresses astonishment. They realized Jesus transcends ordinary humanity. The answer: He's...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**5. And some fell on stony ground, where it had not much earth--**"the rocky ground"; in Matthew (Mt 13:5), "the rocky places"; in Luke (Lu 8:6), "the rock." The thing intended is, not ground with stones in it which would not prevent the roots striking downward, but ground where a quite thin surface of earth covers a rock. What means this? See on Mr 4:16. Third Case: The Thorny Ground. (Mr 4:7...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 35-41** Christ was asleep in the storm, to try the faith of his disciples, and to stir them up to pray. Their faith appeared weak, and their prayers strong. When our wicked hearts are like the troubled sea which cannot rest, when our passions are unruly, let us think we hear the law of Christ, saying, Be silent, be dumb. When without are fightings, and within are fears, and the spirit...
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