New Testament
Mark 15:2
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Pilate asked him, "Are you the King of the Jews?" Jesus replied, "You say it."
Compare translations
And Pilate asked him, Art thou the King of the Jews? And he answering said unto him, Thou sayest it.
What Mark 15:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Pilate, the Roman governor, questions Jesus about his identity, specifically asking if he is the King of the Jews. Jesus responds with a phrase that can be interpreted as an affirmation, but it also leaves room for interpretation. By saying, "You say it," Jesus acknowledges Pilate's question without directly claiming the title. This exchange highlights the tension between earthly authority and spiritual truth. Pilate is trying to understand the nature of Jesus' kingship, which is not political or military but spiritual. Jesus' response indicates that he is aware of the implications of being called a king, especially in the context of the Roman Empire. This moment sets the stage for the events that follow, where Jesus' true mission and identity will be revealed through his suffering and crucifixion.
How to apply Mark 15:2 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our understanding of Jesus' identity. It challenges us to consider what it means to acknowledge Jesus as our King. In our lives, we should seek to understand and embrace the deeper implications of following Christ, beyond mere titles or labels.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
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 Jesus's story: On Trial Before Pilate (Mark 15:1–20)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
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 15:2
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 15:2
Related Bible verses
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 15:2 mean?
In Mark 15:2, Pilate questions Jesus about being the King of the Jews. Jesus' response, 'You say it,' suggests he acknowledges the title without explicitly claiming it, highlighting the contrast between earthly authority and his spiritual kingship.
What is the significance of Jesus' response in Mark 15:2?
Jesus' reply in Mark 15:2 indicates his awareness of the implications of kingship, especially under Roman rule. It emphasizes the distinction between political power and his true mission, which is spiritual rather than earthly.
What does 'You say it' mean in Mark 15:2?
The phrase 'You say it' in Mark 15:2 can be interpreted as Jesus affirming Pilate's question while leaving it open to interpretation. It suggests that Jesus is aware of the implications of being called a king without directly asserting that title.
How does Mark 15:2 relate to themes of authority and identity?
Mark 15:2 illustrates the conflict between Jesus' spiritual identity and the political authority of Pilate. This moment highlights the broader themes of authority and identity, emphasizing that Jesus' kingship transcends earthly power.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.