New Testament
Mark 4:38
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But Jesus was in the back of the boat, sound asleep on a cushion. They shook him awake and shouted, "Teacher, don't you care that we're about to drown?"
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And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish?
What Mark 4:38 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see Jesus in a moment of deep rest, despite the chaos around him. The disciples, overwhelmed by fear during a storm, wake him up, questioning his concern for their safety. This scene highlights the contrast between Jesus' peace and the disciples' panic. It illustrates a common human experience: in times of crisis, we often feel abandoned or neglected, even by those we trust. The disciples' plea reveals their desperation and lack of faith in Jesus' ability to protect them. This moment serves as a reminder that even in our darkest hours, Jesus is present, and we can turn to him for help. His calmness in the storm symbolizes the peace he offers amidst life's turmoil. The disciples' reaction also reflects our tendency to doubt in difficult situations, prompting us to consider how we respond to challenges and whether we trust in Jesus' care and power.
How to apply Mark 4:38 to your life
When facing life's storms, remember that Jesus is with you, even if it feels like he is asleep. Turn to him in prayer, expressing your fears and doubts. Trust that he cares for you and has the power to calm your storms.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Calming the Storm (Mark 4:35–41)
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Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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Keep studying Mark 4:38
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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 4:38 mean?
Mark 4:38 depicts Jesus sleeping peacefully in a boat during a violent storm, while his disciples panic and wake him, questioning his concern for their safety. This scene illustrates the contrast between Jesus' calmness and the disciples' fear, highlighting themes of faith and trust in difficult times.
What is the significance of Jesus sleeping in Mark 4:38?
Jesus sleeping in Mark 4:38 signifies his complete trust in God and his ability to remain at peace amid chaos. It serves as a reminder that even in our most troubled moments, Jesus is present and can provide comfort and reassurance.
What does the disciples' reaction in Mark 4:38 reveal?
The disciples' reaction in Mark 4:38 reveals their fear and lack of faith in Jesus' power to protect them. Their desperate plea for help highlights a common human response to crises, where we may feel abandoned or question the support of those we trust.
How can I apply Mark 4:38 to my life?
You can apply Mark 4:38 to your life by remembering that Jesus is with you during your struggles, even when it feels like he is distant. Turning to him in prayer and expressing your fears can help you find peace and reassurance in challenging times.
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