New Testament
Mark 11:29
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Jesus said to them, "I'll ask you one question. Answer me, and I'll tell you by what authority I do these things.
Compare translations
And Jesus answered and said unto them, I will also ask of you one question, and answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I do these things.
What Mark 11:29 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is engaging with the religious leaders who are questioning His authority. Instead of directly answering their challenge, He proposes a question of His own. This method is significant because it puts the onus on them to respond, revealing their own understanding and authority. By asking them to answer His question, Jesus is not only demonstrating His wisdom but also inviting them to reflect on their beliefs and the source of their authority. This interaction highlights the tension between Jesus and the religious authorities, as they are often depicted as being more concerned with maintaining their power than seeking the truth. Jesus' approach also serves to illustrate that true authority comes from God, and He is challenging them to recognize where their own authority originates. This moment sets the stage for deeper discussions about faith, authority, and the nature of Jesus' mission.
How to apply Mark 11:29 to your life
When faced with challenges to our beliefs, we can learn from Jesus' example of asking questions. This encourages dialogue and reflection rather than confrontation. It’s important to understand the foundations of our faith and to engage thoughtfully with others, fostering deeper understanding and respect.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Paul's story: The Stoning of Stephen (Acts 7:57–8:2)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Paul
Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Jerusalem
David's capital, the city of the temple, and the place where Jesus died and rose again.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Mark 11:29
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Mark 11:29
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Mark
- Author
- John Mark
- Written
- Around AD 55-65
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Roman and Gentile Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Mark 11:29 mean?
In Mark 11:29, Jesus responds to the religious leaders' challenge by asking them a question. This tactic shifts the focus back to them, prompting them to consider their own authority and understanding.
What is the significance of Jesus asking a question in Mark 11:29?
Jesus' question in Mark 11:29 serves to reveal the religious leaders' lack of insight and authority. It highlights His wisdom and challenges them to reflect on their beliefs.
How does Mark 11:29 relate to the authority of Jesus?
In Mark 11:29, Jesus' question underscores His divine authority by inviting the religious leaders to examine their own understanding. It illustrates that true authority comes from God, contrasting with the leaders' self-proclaimed power.
What can we learn from Mark 11:29?
Mark 11:29 teaches us the importance of asking questions when faced with challenges to our beliefs. This approach fosters dialogue and encourages deeper understanding rather than conflict.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.