New Testament

Mark 16:3

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ClearClear Bible Translation

On the way, they asked each other, "Who's going to roll that stone away from the entrance of the tomb for us?"

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KJVKing James Version

And they said among themselves, Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre?

What Mark 16:3 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In Mark 16:3, the women heading to Jesus' tomb express concern about the large stone blocking the entrance. This stone symbolizes obstacles and challenges that can seem insurmountable. Their question reflects their uncertainty and the reality of their situation. Despite their worry, they proceed to the tomb, demonstrating faith and determination. This moment highlights the importance of community support, as they are discussing their problem together. It also sets the stage for the miraculous event of the resurrection, showing that even when we face daunting challenges, we can trust that God has a plan. The women’s journey to the tomb is not just a physical one but also a spiritual one, as they seek to honor Jesus. Their question serves as a reminder that we often encounter barriers in our lives, but with faith and perseverance, we can overcome them, especially when we rely on God’s strength and guidance.

How to apply Mark 16:3 to your life

When facing challenges, like the women at the tomb, we should not hesitate to seek help from others. Trusting in God’s plan can help us overcome obstacles that seem impossible. Remember, faith can lead us through difficult times.

Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary

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A painting of the empty tomb of Jesus

Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Empty Tomb (Mark 16:1–8)

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Jesus

An old color photograph of Bethlehem on a ridge above terraces of olive trees.

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.

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Bethlehem

David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.

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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 16:3 mean?

Mark 16:3 captures the moment when the women going to Jesus' tomb express concern about the large stone blocking the entrance. Their question highlights their uncertainty and the obstacles they face, symbolizing the challenges we all encounter in life.

What is the significance of the stone in Mark 16:3?

The stone in Mark 16:3 represents obstacles and challenges that can seem overwhelming. It serves as a reminder that even when faced with daunting barriers, faith and community support can help us find a way forward.

How does Mark 16:3 relate to faith?

Mark 16:3 shows the women’s faith as they continue their journey to the tomb despite their worries about the stone. Their actions demonstrate that faith can motivate us to confront obstacles, trusting that God has a plan.

What can we learn from Mark 16:3?

From Mark 16:3, we learn the importance of seeking help and support from others when facing challenges. It encourages us to rely on faith and community to overcome obstacles that may seem impossible.

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