New Testament
Mark 3:31
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Then his mother and brothers arrived. They stood outside and sent someone in to call him.
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There came then his brethren and his mother, and, standing without, sent unto him, calling him.
What Mark 3:31 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus' family, including his mother and brothers, come to see him while he is teaching. They are outside the place where he is, indicating a physical and perhaps emotional distance. They send someone to call him, suggesting they want to speak with him, possibly out of concern for his well-being or to bring him back home. This moment highlights the tension between Jesus' earthly family and his spiritual mission. It shows that even those closest to him may not fully understand his purpose or the importance of his work. The act of sending someone to call him also reflects the societal norms of the time, where direct communication might not have been appropriate. This scene sets the stage for Jesus to redefine family in a spiritual sense, emphasizing that those who do the will of God are his true family.
How to apply Mark 3:31 to your life
This verse encourages us to consider our priorities and relationships. It reminds us that following Jesus may sometimes create tension with our earthly relationships. We should strive to understand our spiritual calling and support others in their journeys, even when it challenges familial expectations.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
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Illustrated scene from Mary, Jesus' mother's story: Jesus' Mother and Brothers (Mark 3:31–35)
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Mary, Jesus' mother
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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Keep studying Mark 3:31
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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 3:31 mean?
Mark 3:31 describes a moment when Jesus' mother and brothers come to see him while he is teaching. Their presence outside indicates a physical and emotional distance, suggesting they may not fully understand his mission.
What is the significance of Jesus' family in Mark 3:31?
In Mark 3:31, Jesus' family represents the tension between earthly relationships and spiritual commitments. Their attempt to call him highlights the misunderstanding of his purpose and foreshadows Jesus' teaching on redefining family.
What does the phrase 'sent someone in to call him' mean in Mark 3:31?
The phrase 'sent someone in to call him' indicates that Jesus' family wanted to communicate with him but chose to do so through a messenger, reflecting the social norms of the time regarding direct communication.
What themes are present in Mark 3:31?
Mark 3:31 touches on themes such as family dynamics, misunderstanding, and the distinction between earthly and spiritual relationships, emphasizing the importance of spiritual calling over familial expectations.
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