Mark 6 meaning explained in AI Summary
Sending Out the Twelve and the Death of John the Baptist
- Jesus sends out the twelve disciples with authority to cast out demons, heal the sick, and preach the kingdom of God.
- Herod Antipas imprisons John the Baptist and eventually has him beheaded at the request of Herodias.
- Jesus feeds the five thousand with five loaves and two fish.
Mark chapter 6 can be divided into three main sections:
1. Rejection at Nazareth (6:1-6): Jesus returns to his hometown, Nazareth, and teaches in the synagogue. However, the people are astonished by his wisdom and miracles, questioning his origins as a mere carpenter's son. Their lack of faith hinders Jesus from performing many miracles there, highlighting the importance of belief in receiving God's power.
2. Sending Out the Twelve (6:7-13): Jesus commissions his twelve disciples, granting them authority over unclean spirits and sending them out in pairs to preach repentance and the coming Kingdom of God. He instructs them to travel simply, relying on the hospitality of others and focusing on their mission. This section emphasizes the expansion of Jesus' ministry through his followers.
3. Ministry, Miracles, and Martyrdom (6:14-56): This section recounts various events, including:
- Herod's Fear and John the Baptist's Death (6:14-29): Herod Antipas, having imprisoned John the Baptist, is troubled by Jesus' miracles, believing him to be John raised from the dead. The narrative then describes the events leading to John's beheading at the request of Herodias, Herod's wife, and her daughter.
- Feeding the Five Thousand (6:30-44): Jesus, moved by compassion for the crowds following him, miraculously multiplies five loaves and two fish to feed over five thousand people. This miracle demonstrates Jesus' power and compassion, highlighting his provision for both physical and spiritual needs.
- Walking on Water (6:45-52): Jesus walks on water towards his disciples who are struggling against a storm in their boat. This event reveals Jesus' divine authority over nature and his ability to calm the storms in our lives.
- Healing in Gennesaret (6:53-56): Upon arriving at Gennesaret, people recognize Jesus and bring the sick to be healed. This final section emphasizes the widespread impact of Jesus' ministry and his willingness to heal all who come to him in faith.
Overall, Mark chapter 6 portrays the growing opposition to Jesus' ministry, culminating in John the Baptist's martyrdom. However, it also highlights the expansion of Jesus' work through his disciples and the increasing impact of his miracles and teachings. It emphasizes the importance of faith and the reality of Jesus' power over both the natural and spiritual realms.
Mark 6 bible study ai commentary
Mark 6 showcases the expanding radius of Jesus' ministry and the polarizing responses it provokes. It highlights a critical theme: the paradox of Jesus' identity. While his authority over demons, disease, and nature is demonstrated with escalating power, the spiritual perception of those closest to him, from his hometown neighbors to his own disciples, remains strikingly dim. The chapter contrasts the failure of human systems and rulers (the contempt of Nazareth, the corruption of Herod's court) with the divine sufficiency and compassion of the true King, who shepherds and provides for his people.
Mark 6 context
The setting is Galilee, a region in northern Israel under the rule of Herod Antipas, a client ruler (Tetrarch) for the Roman Empire. This was a politically charged environment. Jewish culture was steeped in honor-shame dynamics, where family, trade, and hometown were primary identity markers, explaining the offense taken in Nazareth at the "carpenter." The sending of the Twelve leverages the Jewish legal principle of two witnesses and the cultural practice of itinerant teachers relying on hospitality. The contrast between Jesus' ministry and Herod's court is stark: one offers life and sustenance, the other moral decay and death, a political commentary on true versus worldly kingship.
Mark 6:1-6
He went away from there and came to his hometown, and his disciples followed him. And on the Sabbath he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were astonished, saying, “Where did this man get these things? What is the wisdom given to him? How are such mighty works done by his hands? Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon? And are not his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at him. And Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor, except in his hometown and among his own relatives and in his own house.” And he could do no mighty work there, except that he laid his hands on a few sick people and healed them. And he marveled because of their unbelief. And he went about among the villages teaching.
In-depth-analysis
- The Carpenter: Mark is the only Gospel to explicitly call Jesus "the carpenter" (tektĹŤn). Matthew calls him "the carpenter's son" (Mt 13:55). This was a common, manual-labor trade. Their question is a social put-down, reducing his divine authority to his humble, known profession. It's an expression of "familiarity breeds contempt."
- Son of Mary: Referring to him as the "son of Mary" rather than "son of Joseph" was unusual in a patriarchal society and could carry an insinuation of illegitimate birth, further deepening the insult.
- Took Offense: The Greek word is eskandalizonto, from which "scandalized" is derived. It means they stumbled over him. His ordinary, human background was a stumbling block to their faith; they couldn't reconcile the man they knew with the miracles they heard about.
- He could do no mighty work: This is one of the most striking statements in the Gospels. It does not imply a limitation on Jesus' omnipotence, but rather illustrates a principle of the Kingdom: God's power often operates in response to faith (Mk 5:34). Their profound unbelief created an atmosphere where divine power was not manifested on a large scale.
- Marveled at their unbelief: Jesus, who is rarely surprised, is astonished by the depth of their rejection. It contrasts sharply with his amazement at the faith of the centurion (Mt 8:10) and the Syrophoenician woman (Mt 15:28).
Bible references
- Matthew 13:54-58: ...is not this the carpenter's son?... And he did not do many mighty works there... (Parallel account of the rejection in Nazareth).
- Luke 4:24-30: And he said, "Truly, I say to you, no prophet is acceptable in his hometown." (Luke's version of the event, which includes a more hostile reaction).
- Isaiah 53:3: He was despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief... (Prophetic type of the Messiah's rejection by his own people).
- John 1:11: He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him. (A thematic summary of Jesus' rejection by Israel).
Cross references
Jer 11:21 (prophet rejected at Anathoth), Lk 2:34 (sign to be opposed), Joh 7:5 (his brothers did not believe), Heb 11:6 (faith required).
Mark 6:7-13
And he called the twelve and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits. He charged them to take nothing for their journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in their belts—but to wear sandals and not put on two tunics. And he said to them, “Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you depart from there. And if any place will not receive you and they will not listen to you, when you leave, shake off the dust that is on your feet as a testimony against them.” So they went out and proclaimed that people should repent. And they cast out many demons and anointed with oil many who were sick and healed them.
In-depth-analysis
- Two by two: This follows the legal requirement for testimony in Jewish law (Deut 19:15) and provides mutual support and accountability.
- Authority (exousia): Jesus delegates his own authority to them. Their power is not their own; it is derived directly from him.
- Nothing for their journey: This radical command forced complete dependence on God for provision through the hospitality of others. It was a test of faith for the apostles and a sign to those they visited. This contrasts sharply with the self-sufficiency valued by the world.
- Shake off the dust: This was a symbolic Jewish gesture. When leaving a Gentile area to re-enter Jewish land, pious Jews would shake the unclean pagan dust from their feet. By applying this to a Jewish town, Jesus implies that a Jewish community that rejects His messengers is acting like a pagan one, placing itself outside the covenant blessings of God's Kingdom.
- Anointed with oil: Oil was a common medicinal medium in the ancient world but here it is also a symbol of God's healing presence and consecration, as used for anointing kings and priests (1 Sam 16:13).
Bible references
- Luke 10:1, 4: ...He appointed seventy-two others and sent them on ahead of him... Carry no moneybag, no knapsack, no sandals... (Similar commissioning of the seventy-two).
- Acts 13:51: But they shook off the dust from their feet against them and went to Iconium. (Paul and Barnabas applying this very command in their missionary work).
- Deuteronomy 19:15: A single witness shall not suffice against a person... only on the evidence of two witnesses... (The legal principle behind sending them in pairs).
- James 5:14: Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil... (The continuation of this healing practice in the early church).
Cross references
Mt 10:1-15 (parallel commission), Ex 4:2 (Moses' staff), 2 Kgs 4:29 (prophet traveling light), Neh 5:13 (shaking garment as curse).
Mark 6:14-29
King Herod heard of it, for Jesus' name had become known. Some said, “John the Baptist has been raised from the dead. That is why these miraculous powers are at work in him.” But others said, “He is Elijah.” And others said, “He is a prophet, like one of the prophets of old.” But when Herod heard of it, he said, “John, whom I beheaded, has been raised!” For it was Herod who had sent and seized John and bound him in prison for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, because he had married her...[The narrative continues with the banquet, Salome's dance, the rash oath, and the beheading of John].
In-depth-analysis
- Literary Structure: This section is a "Markan Sandwich" or intercalation. The story of the apostles' mission (A) is interrupted by the story of John's death (B), and then resumes with their return (A). The dark political reality of John's martyrdom provides a sober context for the disciples' mission, showing the potential cost of proclaiming the truth.
- King Herod: Mark calls him "king" for dramatic effect, but he was historically the Tetrarch of Galilee, a lower rank. This highlights his vanity and pretensions. His fear that Jesus is a resurrected John reveals a guilty conscience and superstitious mindset.
- Herodias: She is portrayed as the true villain, reminiscent of Jezebel who sought Elijah's life (1 Kgs 19). She is driven by a vengeful grudge and manipulates the weak-willed Herod.
- The Banquet: This is a grim parody of a royal court. It's a "banquet of death," driven by lust, vanity, and a foolish oath. It stands in stark thematic contrast to the "banquet of life" that Jesus will host for the 5,000 later in the chapter.
- A Prophet's End: John's fate—imprisoned and killed for speaking truth to power—directly foreshadows Jesus' own passion and death.
Bible references
- Matthew 14:1-12: At that time Herod the tetrarch heard the report about Jesus... This is John the Baptist... (Parallel account of John's death).
- 1 Kings 21:1-16: ...Naboth said to Ahab, “The LORD forbid that I should give you the inheritance of my fathers.” (Naboth's murder at the behest of Jezebel provides an OT parallel for a righteous man killed by a corrupt monarch and his manipulative wife).
- Luke 9:7-9: Now Herod the tetrarch heard about all that was happening... and he was perplexed... and he sought to see him. (Luke's version emphasizing Herod's desire to see Jesus).
- Proverbs 6:23-26: For the commandment is a lamp and the teaching a light... to preserve you from the evil woman... (Wisdom literature warning against the kind of folly and sin Herod fell into).
Cross references
Est 5:3 (king's rash oath), Lv 18:16 (law against marrying brother's wife), Mal 4:5 (prophecy of Elijah's return), Dan 5 (Belshazzar's fateful banquet).
Mark 6:30-44
The apostles returned to Jesus and told him all that they had done and taught. And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat... But many saw them going and recognized them... and they ran there on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of them. When he went ashore he saw a great crowd, and he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. And he began to teach them many things... And he took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, he blessed and broke the loaves... And they all ate and were satisfied. And they took up twelve baskets full of broken pieces and of the fish. And those who ate the loaves were five thousand men.
In-depth-analysis
- Sheep without a shepherd: This phrase evokes strong Old Testament imagery of Israel's failed leadership (Num 27:17, Eze 34:5). Jesus presents himself as the true Shepherd of Israel, who, unlike the hirelings, has genuine compassion (esplagchnisthē – a gut-level pity) and provides for his flock.
- You give them something to eat: Jesus challenges his disciples with an impossible command to reveal their own inadequacy and his super-abundant sufficiency. Their five loaves and two fish represent the poverty of human resources.
- Blessed and Broke: The four actions—took, blessed, broke, gave—are the precise actions of Jesus at the Last Supper (Mk 14:22). This miracle is a clear foreshadowing of the Eucharist, where Christ himself is the bread that gives eternal life.
- Twelve baskets: The number twelve is highly significant, symbolizing the twelve tribes of Israel. The leftover abundance shows that God's provision in Christ is more than enough for all of His people.
- Polemic: The entire event acts as a polemic against the "banquet of death" held by Herod. Herod's feast leads to murder; Jesus' feast leads to life and satisfaction for thousands. One is a corrupt earthly king; the other is the true Heavenly King.
Bible references
- John 6:5-14: Jesus then... said to Philip, “Where are we to buy bread, so that these people may eat?” (John's more detailed theological account of the same miracle).
- 2 Kings 4:42-44: A man... brought the man of God bread of the firstfruits, twenty loaves of barley... “Give it to the people, that they may eat.” (Elisha miraculously feeding 100 men, a key Old Testament precedent that Jesus' miracle far surpasses).
- Ezekiel 34:11-16: For thus says the Lord GOD: Behold, I, I myself will search for my sheep and will seek them out... I myself will be the shepherd of my sheep... (God's promise to shepherd his people, fulfilled in Jesus).
- Psalm 23:1-2: The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. (Mark's detail of the "green grass" directly alludes to this beloved psalm).
Cross references
Num 11:13-23 (Moses doubts God can feed Israel), Ex 16 (manna in wilderness), Mk 8:1-9 (feeding of the 4000), 1 Cor 11:23-24 (words of institution).
Mark 6:45-52
Immediately he made his disciples get into the boat and go before him to the other side... And after he had taken leave of them, he went up on the mountain to pray. And when evening came... he saw that they were making headway painfully, for the wind was against them. And about the fourth watch of the night he came to them, walking on the sea. He intended to pass by them, but when they saw him... they cried out... and were terrified. But immediately he spoke to them and said, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.” And he got into the boat with them, and the wind ceased. And they were utterly astounded, for they did not understand about the loaves, but their hearts were hardened.
In-depth-analysis
- Walking on the sea: This is not just a nature miracle; it's a divine self-revelation, an epiphany. In the Old Testament, only God has dominion over the chaotic waters (Job 9:8, Ps 77:19). Jesus is demonstrating a power that belongs to Yahweh alone.
- He intended to pass by them: This strange phrase recalls God's self-revelation to Moses ("I will make all my goodness pass before you" Ex 33:19) and Elijah (1 Kgs 19:11). It's a theophany, a manifestation of God's presence. Jesus isn't just taking a stroll; he is revealing his glory.
- It is I (egĹŤ eimi): While it can simply mean "It's me," in this context of a divine manifestation, it powerfully echoes God's covenant name, "I AM" (Ex 3:14 in the Septuagint). He is not just identifying himself; he is declaring his deity.
- Their hearts were hardened: The Greek (pēroō) denotes a dullness or spiritual blindness, not active rebellion. It's the same word Mark uses for the Pharisees (Mk 3:5). This is a shocking indictment of the disciples. Their failure to grasp the divine identity of Jesus revealed in the loaves prevented them from understanding the revelation on the water.
Bible references
- Job 9:8: ...who alone stretched out the heavens and trampled the waves of the sea... (Attributing the act of walking on the sea to God alone).
- Psalm 77:19: Your way was through the sea, your path through the great waters; yet your footprints were unseen. (A poetic description of God's mastery over the sea).
- Exodus 3:14: God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM.” (The divine name, egō eimi in the Greek OT, which Jesus applies to himself).
- Isaiah 43:10, 25: "...that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he (egĹŤ eimi)." ... "I, I am he who blots out your transgressions..." (The "I AM" statements of Yahweh in Isaiah, which Jesus echoes).
Cross references
Mt 14:22-33 (includes Peter's attempt), Joh 6:16-21 (parallel account), Ps 107:28-30 (God calming the storm), Isa 6:10 (hardened hearts).
Mark 6:53-56
When they had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret and moored to the shore. And when they got out of the boat, the people immediately recognized him and ran about the whole region and began to bring the sick on their beds to wherever they heard he was. And wherever he entered, in villages or cities or countryside, they laid the sick in the marketplaces and implored him that they might touch even the fringe of his garment. And as many as touched it were made well.
In-depth-analysis
- Immediate Recognition: In sharp contrast to his own hometown (v. 1-6) and his own disciples (v. 52), the people of the Gennesaret region immediately recognize him and his power.
- Desperate Faith: The scene depicts a frantic, widespread need for healing. This is faith born of desperation, not deep theological understanding. They don't necessarily know who he is in a doctrinal sense, but they know what he can do.
- Fringe of his garment: This directly recalls the woman with the flow of blood (Mk 5:28). It also alludes to the tassels (tzitzit) that Jews were commanded to wear on their garments as a reminder of God's commandments (Num 15:38-39). By touching the fringe of Jesus' garment, they are, in effect, touching the one who embodies and fulfills all of God's law and promises. His very presence brings wholeness and fulfills the law's purpose.
Bible references
- Mark 5:27-29: ...she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his garment... And immediately the flow of blood dried up... (The direct precedent for touching his garment for healing).
- Numbers 15:38-39: Speak to the people of Israel, and tell them to make tassels on the corners of their garments... and when you look at it, you will remember all the commandments of the LORD... (The Old Testament command behind the garment fringe).
- Matthew 9:20-22: ...a woman who had suffered from a discharge of blood for twelve years came up behind him and touched the fringe of his garment... (Matthew's parallel account of the hemorrhaging woman).
- Acts 19:12: ...so that even handkerchiefs or aprons that had touched his skin were carried away to the sick, and their diseases left them... (The extension of this tangible healing power through the apostles).
Cross references
Lk 6:19 (crowds trying to touch him), Mk 3:10 (many pressed around him), Mal 4:2 (healing in his wings/corners).
Mark chapter 6 analysis
- The King and the Tetrarch: Mark 6 powerfully contrasts two rulers and their banquets. Herod Antipas, the earthly Tetrarch, presides over a corrupt feast of vanity, lust, and death, culminating in the beheading of God's prophet. In contrast, Jesus, the true King, presides over a compassionate feast of life and abundance, satisfying the hunger of thousands in the wilderness. Herod takes a life; Jesus gives life.
- The Markan Sandwich (Intercalation): The insertion of John the Baptist's martyrdom (vv. 14-29) into the middle of the apostles' mission (vv. 7-13, 30) is a deliberate literary technique. It serves to foreshadow Jesus' own fate and to underscore the mortal danger involved in the ministry the disciples have just begun. Proclaiming the kingdom is not a safe occupation.
- Progressive Revelation and Persistent Blindness: The chapter is structured to build a case for Jesus' divine identity. He displays authority over the supernatural (demons), the physical (sickness), nature itself (multiplication, sea-walking). Yet, the theme of spiritual blindness or "hardened hearts" intensifies. First, his hometown is offended. Then, Herod is superstitious but unseeing. Finally, and most disturbingly, his own chosen disciples fail to comprehend his identity, even after witnessing two staggering miracles. Their failure to understand the loaves is the key to their astonishment on the water. They saw a great magic trick, not the identity of the Bread of Life.
- The Messianic Shepherd-King: Jesus' actions fulfill specific Messianic prophecies. His compassion for the "sheep without a shepherd" fulfills Ezekiel 34. His feeding them in a desolate place on "green grass" echoes Psalm 23. His walking on the water demonstrates the power of Yahweh from Job and the Psalms. Mark is not just narrating events; he is systematically making the theological argument that Jesus is the long-awaited Shepherd-King of Israel, God himself walking among them.
Mark 6 summary
Jesus is rejected in his hometown of Nazareth due to their familiarity and unbelief. He then commissions the Twelve, granting them authority and sending them out on a mission of radical dependence on God. This mission is framed by the story of John the Baptist's execution at the hands of a weak Herod, highlighting the cost of discipleship. Upon the disciples' return, Jesus demonstrates his divine compassion and power by miraculously feeding over 5,000 people and later by walking on the sea, revealing himself as the master of nature. The chapter closes with widespread healings, yet underscores a central tragedy: the disciples' own hearts remain hardened, failing to grasp the divine identity revealed in his actions.
Mark 6 AI Image Audio and Video
Mark chapter 6 kjv
- 1 And he went out from thence, and came into his own country; and his disciples follow him.
- 2 And when the sabbath day was come, he began to teach in the synagogue: and many hearing him were astonished, saying, From whence hath this man these things? and what wisdom is this which is given unto him, that even such mighty works are wrought by his hands?
- 3 Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us? And they were offended at him.
- 4 But Jesus, said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, but in his own country, and among his own kin, and in his own house.
- 5 And he could there do no mighty work, save that he laid his hands upon a few sick folk, and healed them.
- 6 And he marvelled because of their unbelief. And he went round about the villages, teaching.
- 7 And he called unto him the twelve, and began to send them forth by two and two; and gave them power over unclean spirits;
- 8 And commanded them that they should take nothing for their journey, save a staff only; no scrip, no bread, no money in their purse:
- 9 But be shod with sandals; and not put on two coats.
- 10 And he said unto them, In what place soever ye enter into an house, there abide till ye depart from that place.
- 11 And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear you, when ye depart thence, shake off the dust under your feet for a testimony against them. Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city.
- 12 And they went out, and preached that men should repent.
- 13 And they cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed them.
- 14 And king Herod heard of him; (for his name was spread abroad:) and he said, That John the Baptist was risen from the dead, and therefore mighty works do shew forth themselves in him.
- 15 Others said, That it is Elias. And others said, That it is a prophet, or as one of the prophets.
- 16 But when Herod heard thereof, he said, It is John, whom I beheaded: he is risen from the dead.
- 17 For Herod himself had sent forth and laid hold upon John, and bound him in prison for Herodias' sake, his brother Philip's wife: for he had married her.
- 18 For John had said unto Herod, It is not lawful for thee to have thy brother's wife.
- 19 Therefore Herodias had a quarrel against him, and would have killed him; but she could not:
- 20 For Herod feared John, knowing that he was a just man and an holy, and observed him; and when he heard him, he did many things, and heard him gladly.
- 21 And when a convenient day was come, that Herod on his birthday made a supper to his lords, high captains, and chief estates of Galilee;
- 22 And when the daughter of the said Herodias came in, and danced, and pleased Herod and them that sat with him, the king said unto the damsel, Ask of me whatsoever thou wilt, and I will give it thee.
- 23 And he sware unto her, Whatsoever thou shalt ask of me, I will give it thee, unto the half of my kingdom.
- 24 And she went forth, and said unto her mother, What shall I ask? And she said, The head of John the Baptist.
- 25 And she came in straightway with haste unto the king, and asked, saying, I will that thou give me by and by in a charger the head of John the Baptist.
- 26 And the king was exceeding sorry; yet for his oath's sake, and for their sakes which sat with him, he would not reject her.
- 27 And immediately the king sent an executioner, and commanded his head to be brought: and he went and beheaded him in the prison,
- 28 And brought his head in a charger, and gave it to the damsel: and the damsel gave it to her mother.
- 29 And when his disciples heard of it, they came and took up his corpse, and laid it in a tomb.
- 30 And the apostles gathered themselves together unto Jesus, and told him all things, both what they had done, and what they had taught.
- 31 And he said unto them, Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while: for there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat.
- 32 And they departed into a desert place by ship privately.
- 33 And the people saw them departing, and many knew him, and ran afoot thither out of all cities, and outwent them, and came together unto him.
- 34 And Jesus, when he came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd: and he began to teach them many things.
- 35 And when the day was now far spent, his disciples came unto him, and said, This is a desert place, and now the time is far passed:
- 36 Send them away, that they may go into the country round about, and into the villages, and buy themselves bread: for they have nothing to eat.
- 37 He answered and said unto them, Give ye them to eat. And they say unto him, Shall we go and buy two hundred pennyworth of bread, and give them to eat?
- 38 He saith unto them, How many loaves have ye? go and see. And when they knew, they say, Five, and two fishes.
- 39 And he commanded them to make all sit down by companies upon the green grass.
- 40 And they sat down in ranks, by hundreds, and by fifties.
- 41 And when he had taken the five loaves and the two fishes, he looked up to heaven, and blessed, and brake the loaves, and gave them to his disciples to set before them; and the two fishes divided he among them all.
- 42 And they did all eat, and were filled.
- 43 And they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments, and of the fishes.
- 44 And they that did eat of the loaves were about five thousand men.
- 45 And straightway he constrained his disciples to get into the ship, and to go to the other side before unto Bethsaida, while he sent away the people.
- 46 And when he had sent them away, he departed into a mountain to pray.
- 47 And when even was come, the ship was in the midst of the sea, and he alone on the land.
- 48 And he saw them toiling in rowing; for the wind was contrary unto them: and about the fourth watch of the night he cometh unto them, walking upon the sea, and would have passed by them.
- 49 But when they saw him walking upon the sea, they supposed it had been a spirit, and cried out:
- 50 For they all saw him, and were troubled. And immediately he talked with them, and saith unto them, Be of good cheer: it is I; be not afraid.
- 51 And he went up unto them into the ship; and the wind ceased: and they were sore amazed in themselves beyond measure, and wondered.
- 52 For they considered not the miracle of the loaves: for their heart was hardened.
- 53 And when they had passed over, they came into the land of Gennesaret, and drew to the shore.
- 54 And when they were come out of the ship, straightway they knew him,
- 55 And ran through that whole region round about, and began to carry about in beds those that were sick, where they heard he was.
- 56 And whithersoever he entered, into villages, or cities, or country, they laid the sick in the streets, and besought him that they might touch if it were but the border of his garment: and as many as touched him were made whole.
Mark chapter 6 nkjv
- 1 Then He went out from there and came to His own country, and His disciples followed Him.
- 2 And when the Sabbath had come, He began to teach in the synagogue. And many hearing Him were astonished, saying, "Where did this Man get these things? And what wisdom is this which is given to Him, that such mighty works are performed by His hands!
- 3 Is this not the carpenter, the Son of Mary, and brother of James, Joses, Judas, and Simon? And are not His sisters here with us?" So they were offended at Him.
- 4 But Jesus said to them, "A prophet is not without honor except in his own country, among his own relatives, and in his own house."
- 5 Now He could do no mighty work there, except that He laid His hands on a few sick people and healed them.
- 6 And He marveled because of their unbelief. Then He went about the villages in a circuit, teaching.
- 7 And He called the twelve to Himself, and began to send them out two by two, and gave them power over unclean spirits.
- 8 He commanded them to take nothing for the journey except a staff?no bag, no bread, no copper in their money belts?
- 9 but to wear sandals, and not to put on two tunics.
- 10 Also He said to them, "In whatever place you enter a house, stay there till you depart from that place.
- 11 And whoever will not receive you nor hear you, when you depart from there, shake off the dust under your feet as a testimony against them. Assuredly, I say to you, it will be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment than for that city!"
- 12 So they went out and preached that people should repent.
- 13 And they cast out many demons, and anointed with oil many who were sick, and healed them.
- 14 Now King Herod heard of Him, for His name had become well known. And he said, "John the Baptist is risen from the dead, and therefore these powers are at work in him."
- 15 Others said, "It is Elijah." And others said, "It is the Prophet, or like one of the prophets."
- 16 But when Herod heard, he said, "This is John, whom I beheaded; he has been raised from the dead!"
- 17 For Herod himself had sent and laid hold of John, and bound him in prison for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife; for he had married her.
- 18 Because John had said to Herod, "It is not lawful for you to have your brother's wife."
- 19 Therefore Herodias held it against him and wanted to kill him, but she could not;
- 20 for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a just and holy man, and he protected him. And when he heard him, he did many things, and heard him gladly.
- 21 Then an opportune day came when Herod on his birthday gave a feast for his nobles, the high officers, and the chief men of Galilee.
- 22 And when Herodias' daughter herself came in and danced, and pleased Herod and those who sat with him, the king said to the girl, "Ask me whatever you want, and I will give it to you."
- 23 He also swore to her, "Whatever you ask me, I will give you, up to half my kingdom."
- 24 So she went out and said to her mother, "What shall I ask?" And she said, "The head of John the Baptist!"
- 25 Immediately she came in with haste to the king and asked, saying, "I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter."
- 26 And the king was exceedingly sorry; yet, because of the oaths and because of those who sat with him, he did not want to refuse her.
- 27 Immediately the king sent an executioner and commanded his head to be brought. And he went and beheaded him in prison,
- 28 brought his head on a platter, and gave it to the girl; and the girl gave it to her mother.
- 29 When his disciples heard of it, they came and took away his corpse and laid it in a tomb.
- 30 Then the apostles gathered to Jesus and told Him all things, both what they had done and what they had taught.
- 31 And He said to them, "Come aside by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while." For there were many coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat.
- 32 So they departed to a deserted place in the boat by themselves.
- 33 But the multitudes saw them departing, and many knew Him and ran there on foot from all the cities. They arrived before them and came together to Him.
- 34 And Jesus, when He came out, saw a great multitude and was moved with compassion for them, because they were like sheep not having a shepherd. So He began to teach them many things.
- 35 When the day was now far spent, His disciples came to Him and said, "This is a deserted place, and already the hour is late.
- 36 Send them away, that they may go into the surrounding country and villages and buy themselves bread; for they have nothing to eat."
- 37 But He answered and said to them, "You give them something to eat." And they said to Him, "Shall we go and buy two hundred denarii worth of bread and give them something to eat?"
- 38 But He said to them, "How many loaves do you have? Go and see." And when they found out they said, "Five, and two fish."
- 39 Then He commanded them to make them all sit down in groups on the green grass.
- 40 So they sat down in ranks, in hundreds and in fifties.
- 41 And when He had taken the five loaves and the two fish, He looked up to heaven, blessed and broke the loaves, and gave them to His disciples to set before them; and the two fish He divided among them all.
- 42 So they all ate and were filled.
- 43 And they took up twelve baskets full of fragments and of the fish.
- 44 Now those who had eaten the loaves were about five thousand men.
- 45 Immediately He made His disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, to Bethsaida, while He sent the multitude away.
- 46 And when He had sent them away, He departed to the mountain to pray.
- 47 Now when evening came, the boat was in the middle of the sea; and He was alone on the land.
- 48 Then He saw them straining at rowing, for the wind was against them. Now about the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea, and would have passed them by.
- 49 And when they saw Him walking on the sea, they supposed it was a ghost, and cried out;
- 50 for they all saw Him and were troubled. But immediately He talked with them and said to them, "Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid."
- 51 Then He went up into the boat to them, and the wind ceased. And they were greatly amazed in themselves beyond measure, and marveled.
- 52 For they had not understood about the loaves, because their heart was hardened.
- 53 When they had crossed over, they came to the land of Gennesaret and anchored there.
- 54 And when they came out of the boat, immediately the people recognized Him,
- 55 ran through that whole surrounding region, and began to carry about on beds those who were sick to wherever they heard He was.
- 56 Wherever He entered, into villages, cities, or the country, they laid the sick in the marketplaces, and begged Him that they might just touch the hem of His garment. And as many as touched Him were made well.
Mark chapter 6 niv
- 1 Jesus left there and went to his hometown, accompanied by his disciples.
- 2 When the Sabbath came, he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were amazed. "Where did this man get these things?" they asked. "What's this wisdom that has been given him? What are these remarkable miracles he is performing?
- 3 Isn't this the carpenter? Isn't this Mary's son and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas and Simon? Aren't his sisters here with us?" And they took offense at him.
- 4 Jesus said to them, "A prophet is not without honor except in his own town, among his relatives and in his own home."
- 5 He could not do any miracles there, except lay his hands on a few sick people and heal them.
- 6 He was amazed at their lack of faith. Then Jesus went around teaching from village to village.
- 7 Calling the Twelve to him, he began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over impure spirits.
- 8 These were his instructions: "Take nothing for the journey except a staff?no bread, no bag, no money in your belts.
- 9 Wear sandals but not an extra shirt.
- 10 Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you leave that town.
- 11 And if any place will not welcome you or listen to you, leave that place and shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them."
- 12 They went out and preached that people should repent.
- 13 They drove out many demons and anointed many sick people with oil and healed them.
- 14 King Herod heard about this, for Jesus' name had become well known. Some were saying, "John the Baptist has been raised from the dead, and that is why miraculous powers are at work in him."
- 15 Others said, "He is Elijah." And still others claimed, "He is a prophet, like one of the prophets of long ago."
- 16 But when Herod heard this, he said, "John, whom I beheaded, has been raised from the dead!"
- 17 For Herod himself had given orders to have John arrested, and he had him bound and put in prison. He did this because of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, whom he had married.
- 18 For John had been saying to Herod, "It is not lawful for you to have your brother's wife."
- 19 So Herodias nursed a grudge against John and wanted to kill him. But she was not able to,
- 20 because Herod feared John and protected him, knowing him to be a righteous and holy man. When Herod heard John, he was greatly puzzled; yet he liked to listen to him.
- 21 Finally the opportune time came. On his birthday Herod gave a banquet for his high officials and military commanders and the leading men of Galilee.
- 22 When the daughter of Herodias came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his dinner guests. The king said to the girl, "Ask me for anything you want, and I'll give it to you."
- 23 And he promised her with an oath, "Whatever you ask I will give you, up to half my kingdom."
- 24 She went out and said to her mother, "What shall I ask for?" "The head of John the Baptist," she answered.
- 25 At once the girl hurried in to the king with the request: "I want you to give me right now the head of John the Baptist on a platter."
- 26 The king was greatly distressed, but because of his oaths and his dinner guests, he did not want to refuse her.
- 27 So he immediately sent an executioner with orders to bring John's head. The man went, beheaded John in the prison,
- 28 and brought back his head on a platter. He presented it to the girl, and she gave it to her mother.
- 29 On hearing of this, John's disciples came and took his body and laid it in a tomb.
- 30 The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught.
- 31 Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest."
- 32 So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place.
- 33 But many who saw them leaving recognized them and ran on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of them.
- 34 When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things.
- 35 By this time it was late in the day, so his disciples came to him. "This is a remote place," they said, "and it's already very late.
- 36 Send the people away so that they can go to the surrounding countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat."
- 37 But he answered, "You give them something to eat." They said to him, "That would take more than half a year's wages! Are we to go and spend that much on bread and give it to them to eat?"
- 38 "How many loaves do you have?" he asked. "Go and see." When they found out, they said, "Five?and two fish."
- 39 Then Jesus directed them to have all the people sit down in groups on the green grass.
- 40 So they sat down in groups of hundreds and fifties.
- 41 Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to his disciples to distribute to the people. He also divided the two fish among them all.
- 42 They all ate and were satisfied,
- 43 and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces of bread and fish.
- 44 The number of the men who had eaten was five thousand.
- 45 Immediately Jesus made his disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to Bethsaida, while he dismissed the crowd.
- 46 After leaving them, he went up on a mountainside to pray.
- 47 Later that night, the boat was in the middle of the lake, and he was alone on land.
- 48 He saw the disciples straining at the oars, because the wind was against them. Shortly before dawn he went out to them, walking on the lake. He was about to pass by them,
- 49 but when they saw him walking on the lake, they thought he was a ghost. They cried out,
- 50 because they all saw him and were terrified. Immediately he spoke to them and said, "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid."
- 51 Then he climbed into the boat with them, and the wind died down. They were completely amazed,
- 52 for they had not understood about the loaves; their hearts were hardened.
- 53 When they had crossed over, they landed at Gennesaret and anchored there.
- 54 As soon as they got out of the boat, people recognized Jesus.
- 55 They ran throughout that whole region and carried the sick on mats to wherever they heard he was.
- 56 And wherever he went?into villages, towns or countryside?they placed the sick in the marketplaces. They begged him to let them touch even the edge of his cloak, and all who touched it were healed.
Mark chapter 6 esv
- 1 He went away from there and came to his hometown, and his disciples followed him.
- 2 And on the Sabbath he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were astonished, saying, "Where did this man get these things? What is the wisdom given to him? How are such mighty works done by his hands?
- 3 Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon? And are not his sisters here with us?" And they took offense at him.
- 4 And Jesus said to them, "A prophet is not without honor, except in his hometown and among his relatives and in his own household."
- 5 And he could do no mighty work there, except that he laid his hands on a few sick people and healed them.
- 6 And he marveled because of their unbelief. And he went about among the villages teaching.
- 7 And he called the twelve and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits.
- 8 He charged them to take nothing for their journey except a staff ? no bread, no bag, no money in their belts ?
- 9 but to wear sandals and not put on two tunics.
- 10 And he said to them, "Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you depart from there.
- 11 And if any place will not receive you and they will not listen to you, when you leave, shake off the dust that is on your feet as a testimony against them."
- 12 So they went out and proclaimed that people should repent.
- 13 And they cast out many demons and anointed with oil many who were sick and healed them.
- 14 King Herod heard of it, for Jesus' name had become known. Some said, "John the Baptist has been raised from the dead. That is why these miraculous powers are at work in him."
- 15 But others said, "He is Elijah." And others said, "He is a prophet, like one of the prophets of old."
- 16 But when Herod heard of it, he said, "John, whom I beheaded, has been raised."
- 17 For it was Herod who had sent and seized John and bound him in prison for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, because he had married her.
- 18 For John had been saying to Herod, "It is not lawful for you to have your brother's wife."
- 19 And Herodias had a grudge against him and wanted to put him to death. But she could not,
- 20 for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and he kept him safe. When he heard him, he was greatly perplexed, and yet he heard him gladly.
- 21 But an opportunity came when Herod on his birthday gave a banquet for his nobles and military commanders and the leading men of Galilee.
- 22 For when Herodias's daughter came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his guests. And the king said to the girl, "Ask me for whatever you wish, and I will give it to you."
- 23 And he vowed to her, "Whatever you ask me, I will give you, up to half of my kingdom."
- 24 And she went out and said to her mother, "For what should I ask?" And she said, "The head of John the Baptist."
- 25 And she came in immediately with haste to the king and asked, saying, "I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter."
- 26 And the king was exceedingly sorry, but because of his oaths and his guests he did not want to break his word to her.
- 27 And immediately the king sent an executioner with orders to bring John's head. He went and beheaded him in the prison
- 28 and brought his head on a platter and gave it to the girl, and the girl gave it to her mother.
- 29 When his disciples heard of it, they came and took his body and laid it in a tomb.
- 30 The apostles returned to Jesus and told him all that they had done and taught.
- 31 And he said to them, "Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while." For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat.
- 32 And they went away in the boat to a desolate place by themselves.
- 33 Now many saw them going and recognized them, and they ran there on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of them.
- 34 When he went ashore he saw a great crowd, and he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. And he began to teach them many things.
- 35 And when it grew late, his disciples came to him and said, "This is a desolate place, and the hour is now late.
- 36 Send them away to go into the surrounding countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat."
- 37 But he answered them, "You give them something to eat." And they said to him, "Shall we go and buy two hundred denarii worth of bread and give it to them to eat?"
- 38 And he said to them, "How many loaves do you have? Go and see." And when they had found out, they said, "Five, and two fish."
- 39 Then he commanded them all to sit down in groups on the green grass.
- 40 So they sat down in groups, by hundreds and by fifties.
- 41 And taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven and said a blessing and broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples to set before the people. And he divided the two fish among them all.
- 42 And they all ate and were satisfied.
- 43 And they took up twelve baskets full of broken pieces and of the fish.
- 44 And those who ate the loaves were five thousand men.
- 45 Immediately he made his disciples get into the boat and go before him to the other side, to Bethsaida, while he dismissed the crowd.
- 46 And after he had taken leave of them, he went up on the mountain to pray.
- 47 And when evening came, the boat was out on the sea, and he was alone on the land.
- 48 And he saw that they were making headway painfully, for the wind was against them. And about the fourth watch of the night he came to them, walking on the sea. He meant to pass by them,
- 49 but when they saw him walking on the sea they thought it was a ghost, and cried out,
- 50 for they all saw him and were terrified. But immediately he spoke to them and said, "Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid."
- 51 And he got into the boat with them, and the wind ceased. And they were utterly astounded,
- 52 for they did not understand about the loaves, but their hearts were hardened.
- 53 When they had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret and moored to the shore.
- 54 And when they got out of the boat, the people immediately recognized him
- 55 and ran about the whole region and began to bring the sick people on their beds to wherever they heard he was.
- 56 And wherever he came, in villages, cities, or countryside, they laid the sick in the marketplaces and implored him that they might touch even the fringe of his garment. And as many as touched it were made well.
Mark chapter 6 nlt
- 1 Jesus left that part of the country and returned with his disciples to Nazareth, his hometown.
- 2 The next Sabbath he began teaching in the synagogue, and many who heard him were amazed. They asked, "Where did he get all this wisdom and the power to perform such miracles?"
- 3 Then they scoffed, "He's just a carpenter, the son of Mary and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas, and Simon. And his sisters live right here among us." They were deeply offended and refused to believe in him.
- 4 Then Jesus told them, "A prophet is honored everywhere except in his own hometown and among his relatives and his own family."
- 5 And because of their unbelief, he couldn't do any miracles among them except to place his hands on a few sick people and heal them.
- 6 And he was amazed at their unbelief. Jesus Sends Out the Twelve Disciples Then Jesus went from village to village, teaching the people.
- 7 And he called his twelve disciples together and began sending them out two by two, giving them authority to cast out evil spirits.
- 8 He told them to take nothing for their journey except a walking stick ? no food, no traveler's bag, no money.
- 9 He allowed them to wear sandals but not to take a change of clothes.
- 10 "Wherever you go," he said, "stay in the same house until you leave town.
- 11 But if any place refuses to welcome you or listen to you, shake its dust from your feet as you leave to show that you have abandoned those people to their fate."
- 12 So the disciples went out, telling everyone they met to repent of their sins and turn to God.
- 13 And they cast out many demons and healed many sick people, anointing them with olive oil.
- 14 Herod Antipas, the king, soon heard about Jesus, because everyone was talking about him. Some were saying, "This must be John the Baptist raised from the dead. That is why he can do such miracles."
- 15 Others said, "He's the prophet Elijah." Still others said, "He's a prophet like the other great prophets of the past."
- 16 When Herod heard about Jesus, he said, "John, the man I beheaded, has come back from the dead."
- 17 For Herod had sent soldiers to arrest and imprison John as a favor to Herodias. She had been his brother Philip's wife, but Herod had married her.
- 18 John had been telling Herod, "It is against God's law for you to marry your brother's wife."
- 19 So Herodias bore a grudge against John and wanted to kill him. But without Herod's approval she was powerless,
- 20 for Herod respected John; and knowing that he was a good and holy man, he protected him. Herod was greatly disturbed whenever he talked with John, but even so, he liked to listen to him.
- 21 Herodias's chance finally came on Herod's birthday. He gave a party for his high government officials, army officers, and the leading citizens of Galilee.
- 22 Then his daughter, also named Herodias, came in and performed a dance that greatly pleased Herod and his guests. "Ask me for anything you like," the king said to the girl, "and I will give it to you."
- 23 He even vowed, "I will give you whatever you ask, up to half my kingdom!"
- 24 She went out and asked her mother, "What should I ask for?" Her mother told her, "Ask for the head of John the Baptist!"
- 25 So the girl hurried back to the king and told him, "I want the head of John the Baptist, right now, on a tray!"
- 26 Then the king deeply regretted what he had said; but because of the vows he had made in front of his guests, he couldn't refuse her.
- 27 So he immediately sent an executioner to the prison to cut off John's head and bring it to him. The soldier beheaded John in the prison,
- 28 brought his head on a tray, and gave it to the girl, who took it to her mother.
- 29 When John's disciples heard what had happened, they came to get his body and buried it in a tomb.
- 30 The apostles returned to Jesus from their ministry tour and told him all they had done and taught.
- 31 Then Jesus said, "Let's go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile." He said this because there were so many people coming and going that Jesus and his apostles didn't even have time to eat.
- 32 So they left by boat for a quiet place, where they could be alone.
- 33 But many people recognized them and saw them leaving, and people from many towns ran ahead along the shore and got there ahead of them.
- 34 Jesus saw the huge crowd as he stepped from the boat, and he had compassion on them because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things.
- 35 Late in the afternoon his disciples came to him and said, "This is a remote place, and it's already getting late.
- 36 Send the crowds away so they can go to the nearby farms and villages and buy something to eat."
- 37 But Jesus said, "You feed them." "With what?" they asked. "We'd have to work for months to earn enough money to buy food for all these people!"
- 38 "How much bread do you have?" he asked. "Go and find out." They came back and reported, "We have five loaves of bread and two fish."
- 39 Then Jesus told the disciples to have the people sit down in groups on the green grass.
- 40 So they sat down in groups of fifty or a hundred.
- 41 Jesus took the five loaves and two fish, looked up toward heaven, and blessed them. Then, breaking the loaves into pieces, he kept giving the bread to the disciples so they could distribute it to the people. He also divided the fish for everyone to share.
- 42 They all ate as much as they wanted,
- 43 and afterward, the disciples picked up twelve baskets of leftover bread and fish.
- 44 A total of 5,000 men and their families were fed.
- 45 Immediately after this, Jesus insisted that his disciples get back into the boat and head across the lake to Bethsaida, while he sent the people home.
- 46 After telling everyone good-bye, he went up into the hills by himself to pray.
- 47 Late that night, the disciples were in their boat in the middle of the lake, and Jesus was alone on land.
- 48 He saw that they were in serious trouble, rowing hard and struggling against the wind and waves. About three o'clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water. He intended to go past them,
- 49 but when they saw him walking on the water, they cried out in terror, thinking he was a ghost.
- 50 They were all terrified when they saw him. But Jesus spoke to them at once. "Don't be afraid," he said. "Take courage! I am here! "
- 51 Then he climbed into the boat, and the wind stopped. They were totally amazed,
- 52 for they still didn't understand the significance of the miracle of the loaves. Their hearts were too hard to take it in.
- 53 After they had crossed the lake, they landed at Gennesaret. They brought the boat to shore
- 54 and climbed out. The people recognized Jesus at once,
- 55 and they ran throughout the whole area, carrying sick people on mats to wherever they heard he was.
- 56 Wherever he went ? in villages, cities, or the countryside ? they brought the sick out to the marketplaces. They begged him to let the sick touch at least the fringe of his robe, and all who touched him were healed.
- Bible Book of Mark
- 1 John the Baptist Prepares the Way
- 2 Jesus Heals a Paralytic
- 3 A Man with a Withered Hand
- 4 Parable of Farmer planting Seeds
- 5 Jesus Heals a Man with a Demon
- 6 Jesus Rejected at Nazareth
- 7 Traditions and Commandments
- 8 Jesus Feeds the Four Thousand
- 9 The Transfiguration
- 10 Teaching About Divorce
- 11 The Triumphal Entry
- 12 The Parable of the Tenants
- 13 Jesus Foretells Destruction of the Temple
- 14 The Plot to Kill Jesus
- 15 Jesus Delivered to Pilate
- 16 Jesus rising from the Dead