New Testament

Mark 1:40

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, a man suffering from leprosy approaches Jesus, demonstrating both desperation and faith.

Author
John Mark
Written
Around AD 55-65
Genre
Gospel
Original Audience
Roman and Gentile Christians
CBTClear Bible Translation

A man with leprosy came to him, dropped to his knees, and begged, "If you're willing, you can make me clean."

KJVKing James Version

And there came a leper to him, beseeching him, and kneeling down to him, and saying unto him, If thou wilt, thou canst make me clean.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, a man suffering from leprosy approaches Jesus, demonstrating both desperation and faith. He kneels, a sign of humility and reverence, and earnestly asks Jesus if He is willing to heal him. The leper acknowledges Jesus' power to heal, saying, "You can make me clean." This encounter highlights the leper's belief in Jesus' ability to heal, despite his own unclean status due to the disease. Leprosy was not only a physical ailment but also a social stigma, isolating individuals from their communities. The leper's plea reflects a deep longing for restoration, both physically and socially. His approach to Jesus shows that he understands the nature of Jesus' compassion and authority. This moment sets the stage for Jesus' ministry of healing and compassion, illustrating that no one is beyond the reach of His mercy. The leper's faith and Jesus' willingness to heal serve as a powerful reminder of hope and the transformative power of faith in God.

Key themes

Related topics

healing, humility, compassion

How to apply Mark 1:40 to your life

This verse encourages us to approach God with our needs, no matter how desperate our situation may seem. It reminds us that humility and faith are essential in seeking help. We should trust in God's willingness to heal and restore us.

Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Mark 1:40 mean?

Mark 1:40 describes a leper approaching Jesus with humility and faith, asking if He is willing to heal him. This verse illustrates the leper's belief in Jesus' power to cleanse him from his disease and restore him socially.

What is the significance of the leper kneeling in Mark 1:40?

The leper kneeling in Mark 1:40 signifies his humility and reverence towards Jesus. It shows his desperation for healing and his recognition of Jesus' authority to heal him.

What does the phrase 'If you're willing' in Mark 1:40 indicate?

The phrase 'If you're willing' in Mark 1:40 indicates the leper's understanding that healing is dependent on Jesus' compassion and choice. It reflects both his faith in Jesus' ability to heal and his acknowledgment of Jesus' authority.

What themes are present in Mark 1:40?

Mark 1:40 presents themes of faith, healing, humility, compassion, and social stigma. It highlights the leper's faith in Jesus' power to heal and the compassion Jesus shows towards those marginalized by society.

The Book of Mark
Book Summary

The Book of Mark

Mark 1: John the Baptist and the Beginning of Jesus's Ministry

John the Baptist appears in the wilderness and preaches a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. People from Judaea and Jerusalem come to him, confess their sins, and are baptized in the river Jordan. John wears camel's hair and a leather belt and eats locusts and wild honey. He announces that someone stronger than he is coming after him and says he is not worthy to stoop down and untie his sandals. He baptizes with water, but the one coming will baptize with the Holy Ghost.

Premium

Unlock the full Mark summary

Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.

The complete summary of Mark — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 16 chapters.

What you get

Every chapter of Mark summarized in clear, modern English

How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points

Permanent access — read anytime, on any device

Best Value

Best value • Save over 90%

or

One-time purchase • Access anytime

ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.

Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.