New Testament
Mark 14:33
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He took Peter, James, and John with him, and began to be greatly amazed and deeply distressed;
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And he taketh with him Peter and James and John, and began to be sore amazed, and to be very heavy;
What Mark 14:33 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus takes his closest disciples—Peter, James, and John—deeper into the Garden of Gethsemane as he prepares for his impending crucifixion. This moment reveals his vulnerability; he is not just the divine Son of God but also fully human, experiencing profound emotional turmoil. The terms 'greatly amazed' and 'deeply distressed' indicate that Jesus is overwhelmed by the weight of what is to come. He knows the suffering he will endure and the separation from God that will follow. This scene highlights the importance of companionship in times of distress, as Jesus seeks the support of his friends during his darkest hour. It also emphasizes the reality of human emotions, even in the life of Jesus, showing that it is okay to feel fear and anxiety in the face of overwhelming challenges.
How to apply Mark 14:33 to your life
In our own lives, we may face moments of deep distress and fear. Like Jesus, we can seek support from trusted friends or family during tough times. It’s important to acknowledge our feelings and not face challenges alone, as community can provide strength and comfort.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Prayer in Gethsemane (Mark 14:32–42)
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Jesus
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
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Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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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 14:33 mean?
Mark 14:33 describes a moment when Jesus takes Peter, James, and John with him to pray in the Garden of Gethsemane. It shows his emotional struggle as he faces the impending crucifixion, highlighting his vulnerability and need for companionship during a distressing time.
What is the significance of Jesus being 'greatly amazed' in Mark 14:33?
In Mark 14:33, Jesus being 'greatly amazed' indicates his deep emotional turmoil and the weight of the suffering he is about to endure. This phrase reflects the intensity of his feelings as he prepares for his crucifixion.
Why did Jesus take Peter, James, and John with him in Mark 14:33?
Jesus took Peter, James, and John with him in Mark 14:33 to share his emotional burden and seek their support during a critical moment. Their presence emphasizes the importance of companionship in times of distress.
What does 'deeply distressed' mean in Mark 14:33?
'Deeply distressed' in Mark 14:33 refers to Jesus experiencing profound anxiety and sorrow as he anticipates his suffering and separation from God. It highlights the human aspect of his experience.
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