New Testament
Mark 14:58
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"We heard him say, 'I will tear down this temple made by human hands, and in 3 days I will build another one, not made by human hands.'"
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We heard him say, I will destroy this temple that is made with hands, and within three days I will build another made without hands.
What Mark 14:58 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is accused of threatening to destroy the temple, a significant place of worship for the Jewish people. The temple, built by human hands, symbolizes the physical presence of God among His people. Jesus contrasts this with a new temple that He will raise in three days, which refers to His resurrection. This statement is profound because it indicates that Jesus is not just talking about a physical structure but about a new way of relating to God through Himself. The accusation highlights the misunderstanding of Jesus' mission and the spiritual transformation He brings. The temple made without hands signifies a new covenant and a deeper relationship with God that transcends physical buildings. This verse foreshadows the events of Jesus' death and resurrection, emphasizing that He is the true temple where God dwells among humanity.
How to apply Mark 14:58 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on what we consider sacred. It challenges us to recognize that true worship and connection with God are not confined to physical spaces but are found in our relationship with Jesus. We should seek to build our lives on this foundation.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Before the High Priest (Mark 14:53–65)
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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 14:58 mean?
Mark 14:58 records an accusation against Jesus, claiming He threatened to destroy the temple. This statement reflects a misunderstanding of His message about a new relationship with God through His resurrection.
What is the significance of the temple in Mark 14:58?
In this verse, the temple represents the physical presence of God among His people. Jesus contrasts this with a new temple, symbolizing a deeper spiritual connection that He offers through His resurrection.
What does 'made without hands' mean in Mark 14:58?
The phrase 'made without hands' refers to the new temple Jesus will raise, indicating a spiritual reality rather than a physical structure. It signifies the new covenant and relationship with God that transcends traditional worship.
How does Mark 14:58 relate to Jesus' resurrection?
Mark 14:58 foreshadows Jesus' resurrection, as He speaks of building a new temple in three days. This indicates that His death and resurrection will establish a new way for people to connect with God.
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