New Testament
Mark 3:25
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
If a household is torn apart by conflict, that household won't last.
Compare translations
And if a house be divided against itself, that house cannot stand.
What Mark 3:25 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the importance of unity within a household or community. He points out that if there is division and conflict among its members, it will ultimately lead to its downfall. The metaphor of a house represents any group or organization, suggesting that internal strife weakens its foundation. This principle can be applied to families, teams, and even nations. When people are at odds with one another, they cannot work together effectively, which can result in failure to achieve common goals. Jesus uses this statement to illustrate a broader truth about the necessity of harmony and cooperation for survival and success. The message serves as a warning against division and encourages individuals to seek reconciliation and understanding to maintain strength and stability in their relationships and communities.
How to apply Mark 3:25 to your life
To apply this teaching, focus on fostering unity in your relationships. Address conflicts directly and seek to understand differing perspectives. Encourage open communication and collaboration to build a stronger, more resilient community or family. Remember, working together is essential for success.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
Explore more of the Bible
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: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
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.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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 3:25
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 3:25
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 3:25 mean?
Mark 3:25 means that a household or group cannot survive if its members are in conflict with each other. It highlights the importance of unity and cooperation for stability and success.
What is the meaning of 'a house divided against itself' in Mark 3:25?
The phrase 'a house divided against itself' in Mark 3:25 symbolizes any group or organization facing internal strife. It suggests that without harmony, the group is likely to fail.
How can I apply Mark 3:25 in my life?
To apply Mark 3:25, focus on resolving conflicts in your relationships. Promote open communication and teamwork to strengthen your family or community.
What themes are present in Mark 3:25?
The themes in Mark 3:25 include unity, conflict, community strength, and cooperation. It emphasizes the need for harmony to achieve common goals.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.