King James Version

What Does Mark 14:39 Mean?

Mark 14:39 in the King James Version says “And again he went away, and prayed, and spake the same words.” — study this verse from Mark chapter 14 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“And again he went away, and prayed, and spake the same words.”

Mark 14:39 · KJV

Prayer

Context

37

And he cometh, and findeth them sleeping, and saith unto Peter, Simon, sleepest thou? couldest not thou watch one hour?

38

Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. The spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak.

39

And again he went away, and prayed, and spake the same words.

40

And when he returned, he found them asleep again, (for their eyes were heavy,) neither wist they what to answer him.

41

And he cometh the third time, and saith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest: it is enough, the hour is come; behold, the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And again he went away, and prayed, and spake the same words. Jesus' repeated prayer (τὸν αὐτὸν λόγον εἰπών, ton auton logon eipōn, "saying the same word") demonstrates persistent intercession, not vain repetition. This pattern—pray, return, find disciples sleeping, return to prayer—reveals both Christ's humanity (needing repeated prayer) and His submission (continuing to ask for the Father's will despite the answer).

The phrase the same words likely refers to verse 36's prayer: "Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me: nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt." Repeated prayer with unchanged petition yet deepening submission models how prayer changes the pray-er more than circumstances. Jesus wrestled toward acceptance, teaching us that submission isn't absence of struggle but victory through struggle.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Jewish prayer tradition valued repetition of set prayers (the Shema, the Amidah), but also emphasized heartfelt petition. Jesus' model here combines both—persistent repetition with genuine wrestling. The Gethsemane prayers occurred during Passover night, when faithful Jews would be discussing the Exodus; Jesus was about to become the true Passover Lamb.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does Jesus' repeated prayer teach about persistence in prayer when God's answer doesn't change?
  2. How does Jesus' model of repeated submission to God's will challenge the prosperity gospel's emphasis on claiming what you want?
  3. In what situation are you currently called to pray the same prayer repeatedly while deepening your submission to God's will?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 8 words
καὶ1 of 8

“And”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

πάλιν2 of 8

“again”

G3825

(adverbially) anew, i.e., (of place) back, (of time) once more, or (conjunctionally) furthermore or on the other hand

ἀπελθὼν3 of 8

“he went away”

G565

to go off (i.e., depart), aside (i.e., apart) or behind (i.e., follow), literally or figuratively

προσηύξατο4 of 8

“and prayed”

G4336

to pray to god, i.e., supplicate, worship

τὸν5 of 8
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

αὐτὸν6 of 8

“the same”

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

λόγον7 of 8

“words”

G3056

something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension, a

εἰπών8 of 8

“and spake”

G2036

to speak or say (by word or writing)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Mark. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Mark 14:39 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Mark 14:39 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Matthew 26:42-442 Corinthians 12:8Matthew 6:7Luke 18:1

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