New Testament
Mark 5:40
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 encounters a situation where people are mocking him for claiming that a girl who has died can be brought back to life.
- Author
- John Mark
- Written
- Around AD 55-65
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Roman and Gentile Christians
They laughed at him. But he sent them all outside, then took the girl's father and mother and those with him into the room where the child was lying.
And they laughed him to scorn. But when he had put them all out, he taketh the father and the mother of the damsel, and them that were with him, and entereth in where the damsel was lying.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus encounters a situation where people are mocking him for claiming that a girl who has died can be brought back to life. Their laughter reflects disbelief and a lack of faith in his power. Jesus responds by removing the mockers from the room, indicating that he wants to create an environment of faith and focus. He then takes the girl's parents and a few close followers into the room where the girl is lying. This act emphasizes the importance of having supportive and believing individuals around when facing difficult situations. It shows that Jesus values faith and the presence of those who believe in his ability to perform miracles. By isolating the doubters, he prepares to demonstrate his authority over death and restore the girl to life, highlighting his divine power and compassion.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Mark 5:40 to your life
This verse encourages us to surround ourselves with people who support our faith and beliefs, especially during challenging times. It reminds us to be cautious of negative influences that can undermine our hope and trust in God's power to work miracles in our lives.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Mark 5:40 mean?
Mark 5:40 describes a moment when Jesus faces mockery for claiming he can raise a dead girl to life. It highlights the disbelief of the crowd and Jesus' decision to remove them to create a space for faith and healing.
What is the significance of laughter in Mark 5:40?
The laughter in Mark 5:40 signifies the crowd's disbelief and lack of faith in Jesus' power. It contrasts with the faith of the girl's parents and Jesus' followers, emphasizing the importance of belief in miraculous situations.
Why did Jesus remove the crowd in Mark 5:40?
Jesus removed the crowd in Mark 5:40 to eliminate doubt and create an environment conducive to faith. By isolating the mockers, he focused on those who believed, preparing for the miracle he was about to perform.
What does Mark 5:40 teach about faith?
Mark 5:40 teaches that faith is crucial when facing difficult situations. It encourages believers to surround themselves with supportive individuals who share their faith, especially when confronting challenges.

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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