New Testament
Mark 5:39
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Jesus enters a house where people are mourning the death of a young girl.
- Author
- John Mark
- Written
- Around AD 55-65
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Roman and Gentile Christians
He went inside and said to them, "Why all this commotion and crying? The child isn't dead — she's sleeping."
And when he was come in, he saith unto them, Why make ye this ado, and weep? the damsel is not dead, but sleepeth.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus enters a house where people are mourning the death of a young girl. He questions the loud crying and commotion, stating that the girl is not dead but merely sleeping. This statement reflects Jesus' authority over life and death, suggesting that what seems like a final end is not beyond His power. The use of the word 'sleeping' implies that death is temporary and can be overcome. Jesus is about to perform a miracle, demonstrating His ability to restore life. This moment challenges the beliefs of those present, as they are caught up in their grief and disbelief. Jesus' words serve to comfort and prepare them for the miraculous event that is about to unfold, emphasizing faith in His power. This passage illustrates the theme of hope and the transformative power of Jesus, encouraging believers to trust in Him even in seemingly hopeless situations. Explore related miracles.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Mark 5:39 to your life
When faced with difficult situations that seem hopeless, remember that Jesus has the power to bring life and hope. Trust in His authority and timing, knowing that what appears to be an end can be a new beginning. Maintain faith even in despair.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jesus mean when he says the girl is sleeping?
When Jesus refers to the girl as 'sleeping,' he is indicating that her death is not permanent. This metaphor suggests that death is temporary and can be overcome, highlighting His power over life and death. It serves to challenge the mourners' perception of the situation, inviting them to have faith in His ability to perform a miracle.
How does this verse demonstrate Jesus' authority?
This verse showcases Jesus' authority by illustrating His ability to confront death directly. By stating that the girl is not dead but sleeping, He asserts control over the situation and prepares to perform a miracle. This act not only reveals His divine power but also encourages those present to trust in His capabilities, reinforcing the belief that He can bring hope and restoration even in dire circumstances.
What can we learn about faith from Mark 5:39?
Mark 5:39 teaches us that faith is essential, especially in seemingly hopeless situations. Jesus' words challenge the mourners to shift their perspective from despair to hope. This encourages believers to trust in His power and timing, reminding us that even when circumstances appear bleak, faith in Jesus can lead to miraculous outcomes.
Why did Jesus question the mourning crowd?
Jesus questioned the mourning crowd to confront their disbelief and to prepare them for the miracle He was about to perform. His inquiry about the commotion and crying serves to highlight their lack of understanding of His power over death. By addressing their grief, He invites them to reconsider their perspective and opens the door for faith and hope.
The Book of Mark
Mark 1: John the Baptist and the Beginning of Jesus's Ministry
John the Baptist appears in the wilderness and preaches a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. People from Judaea and Jerusalem come to him, confess their sins, and are baptized in the river Jordan. John wears camel's hair and a leather belt and eats locusts and wild honey. He announces that someone stronger than he is coming after him and says he is not worthy to stoop down and untie his sandals. He baptizes with water, but the one coming will baptize with the Holy Ghost.
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