New Testament

Mark 12:42

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, we see a poor widow who gives a very small amount of money—just two copper coins, known as mites.

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

Then a poor widow came and dropped in two small copper coins, which make a farthing.

KJVKing James Version

And there came a certain poor widow, and she threw in two mites, which make a farthing.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, we see a poor widow who gives a very small amount of money—just two copper coins, known as mites. Despite their low value, her offering is significant because it represents all she has. This act highlights the principle that the value of a gift is not determined by its monetary worth but by the heart and sacrifice behind it. Jesus observes her giving and contrasts it with the larger donations of the wealthy, emphasizing that they gave out of their abundance, while she gave out of her poverty. This story teaches us about true generosity and the importance of giving selflessly, regardless of our financial situation. It challenges societal views on wealth and encourages us to consider the intentions behind our actions. The widow's faith and commitment to God are commendable, showing that even the smallest contributions can have great significance in the eyes of God.

How to apply Mark 12:42 to your life

This verse encourages us to give generously, regardless of our financial situation. It reminds us that God values the heart behind our giving more than the amount. We should strive to be selfless in our contributions, whether they are financial or in service to others.

Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Mark 12:42 mean?

Mark 12:42 describes a poor widow who donates two small coins, highlighting that her offering, though minimal in monetary value, is significant because it represents her entire livelihood. This illustrates the idea that true generosity comes from the heart and the sacrifice behind the gift.

What is the significance of the widow's offering in Mark 12:42?

The widow's offering is significant because it shows that the value of a gift is not based on its amount but on the intention and sacrifice behind it. Her contribution, though small, is seen as greater than the larger donations of the wealthy who gave out of their surplus.

What does 'mites' mean in Mark 12:42?

In Mark 12:42, 'mites' refers to very small copper coins that were of little monetary value. Despite their low worth, the widow's two mites symbolize her complete trust and devotion to God.

What lesson can we learn from Mark 12:42?

Mark 12:42 teaches us that generosity is measured by the heart and sacrifice rather than the amount given. It encourages us to give selflessly and highlights that even small contributions can be significant when given with the right intentions.

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.

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