What is the meaning of Mark 5:40?

And they laughed him to scorn. But when he had put them all out, he taketh the father and the mother of the damsel, and them that were with him, and entereth in where the damsel was lying.

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Mark 5:40 Bible Verse Meaning

Mark 5:40 - Commentary and Interpretation

Mark 5:40 states, "And they laughed him to scorn. But when he had put them all out, he taketh the father and the mother of the damsel, and them that were with him, and entereth in where the damsel was lying."

Meaning of the Verse

This verse occurs during the account of Jesus raising Jairus' daughter from the dead. It highlights the skepticism and mockery faced by Jesus from those who did not believe that he could perform such a miracle.

Insights from Commentaries

  • Matthew Henry:

    Henry notes that the laughter of the crowd reflects a common human response to the supernatural or miraculous. He emphasizes that faith often encounters ridicule before it is validated by God's power.

  • Albert Barnes:

    Barnes describes how Jesus' actions—putting the mockers outside—demonstrate his authority over doubt and skepticism. He posits that this illustrates the necessity of faith in experiencing God's miracles.

  • Adam Clarke:

    Clarke emphasizes the significance of Jesus selecting only the parents and a few disciples to witness the miracle. This selectivity is vital as it reflects the idea that faith is required to witness the divine working of God.

Bible Verse Explanations

This verse captivates the tension between faith and skepticism. It serves as an example that while many may doubt, those with faith will witness God’s power. Jesus shows he can see through the scorn of the crowd, isolating the true believers who will witness the forthcoming miracle.

Bible Verse Understanding

The context of this narrative is important. Jesus had just received word of Jairus’s daughter dying. When he arrived at the house, the mourners expressed disbelief in his ability to change the situation. Jesus’ response teaches us the power of faith, as he is about to demonstrate his authority over life and death.

Application of the Verse

This passage encourages believers to remain steadfast in faith, even in the face of skepticism or ridicule. When confronted with doubts, we should seek to surround ourselves with those who support our faith journey, much like how Jesus only took those who believed into the room with him.

Related Bible Cross References

  • Luke 8:53: Parallel account where the crowd also expresses skepticism about the girl's condition.
  • Matthew 9:24: Jesus mentions the girl is not dead but sleeping, further highlighting the misunderstanding of the crowd.
  • John 11:11-14: The raising of Lazarus where similar skepticism is encountered.

Conclusion

Mark 5:40 is a profound reminder of the struggle between faith and doubt. Through the mockery that Jesus faced and the isolation of the faithful, believers learn the importance of maintaining a steadfast faith in God’s promises, even when confronted by the laughter of the unsupportive.