King James Version

What Does Mark 2:11 Mean?

Mark 2:11 in the King James Version says “I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go thy way into thine house.” — study this verse from Mark chapter 2 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go thy way into thine house.”

Mark 2:11 · KJV

Context

9

Whether is it easier to say to the sick of the palsy, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Arise, and take up thy bed, and walk?

10

But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (he saith to the sick of the palsy,)

11

I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go thy way into thine house.

12

And immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went forth before them all; insomuch that they were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, We never saw it on this fashion.

13

And he went forth again by the sea side; and all the multitude resorted unto him, and he taught them.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Jesus addresses the paralytic directly with three imperatives: 'I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go thy way into thine house.' The emphatic 'I say unto thee' (σοὶ λέγω, soi legō) asserts Christ's personal authority—not 'God says' or 'in God's name,' but 'I say.' This first-person authority claim distinguishes Jesus from prophets who spoke for God; Jesus speaks as God. The command to 'arise' (ἔγειρε, egeire) uses terminology associated with resurrection (the same verb appears in Mark 5:41; 16:6), symbolically connecting physical healing with spiritual resurrection from sin's death. The command to 'take up thy bed' reverses his condition—the bed that carried him now becomes his burden to carry. Reformed theology sees this miracle as illustrative of effectual calling—Christ's powerful word creates what it commands.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The κράβαττος (krabattos, 'bed' or 'pallet') was a simple sleeping mat used by the poor, easily carried when rolled up. Jesus performed this miracle publicly in a crowded house, providing undeniable evidence before hostile witnesses. The command to return home demonstrated thorough healing—the man could navigate streets, stairs, and distance. The immediacy of healing contrasts with gradual ancient medical treatments. This miracle, like many in Mark, emphasizes Jesus' power over all human afflictions.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Christ's authoritative word that creates new realities demonstrate His deity and power to transform your life?
  2. In what areas of spiritual paralysis do you need to hear Christ's command to 'arise' and walk in newness of life?
  3. What does this miracle teach about the relationship between Christ's word and His power to accomplish what He commands?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 14 words
Σοὶ1 of 14

“unto thee”

G4671

to thee

λέγω2 of 14

“I say”

G3004

properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an

ἔγειραι3 of 14

“Arise”

G1453

to waken (transitively or intransitively), i.e., rouse (literally, from sleep, from sitting or lying, from disease, from death; or figuratively, from

καὶ4 of 14

“and”

G2532

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

ἆρον5 of 14

“take up”

G142

to lift up; by implication, to take up or away; figuratively, to raise (the voice), keep in suspense (the mind), specially, to sail away (i.e., weigh

τὸν6 of 14
G3588

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

κράββατον7 of 14

“bed”

G2895

a mattress

σου8 of 14

“thine”

G4675

of thee, thy

καὶ9 of 14

“and”

G2532

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

ὕπαγε10 of 14

“go thy way”

G5217

to lead (oneself) under, i.e., withdraw or retire (as if sinking out of sight), literally or figuratively

εἰς11 of 14

“into”

G1519

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

τὸν12 of 14
G3588

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

οἶκόν13 of 14

“house”

G3624

a dwelling (more or less extensive, literal or figurative); by implication, a family (more or less related, literally or figuratively)

σου14 of 14

“thine”

G4675

of thee, thy

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 2:11 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 2:11 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Mark 1:41John 5:8-10John 6:63

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