Mark 5:43 KJV

And he charged them straitly that no man should know it; and commanded that something should be given her to eat.

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Mark 5:43 Bible Commentary

Commentary on Mark 5:43

Mark 5:43 states: "And he charged them straitly that no man should know it; and commanded that something should be given her to eat."

Introduction

This verse closes one of the most significant miracles performed by Jesus, the resurrection of Jairus’ daughter. It not only emphasizes Jesus' authority over death but also his compassion and concern for the needs of those he heals.

Contextual Analysis

In the preceding verses leading to Mark 5:43, Jesus is approached by Jairus, a synagogue ruler whose daughter is near death. As Jesus travels to Jairus’ home, he is interrupted by the woman with the issue of blood, demonstrating the importance of faith and Jesus’ willingness to respond to human need. The climax of this story culminates in the resurrection of the girl, highlighting the multifaceted nature of Jesus’ ministry.

Commentary Insights

1. The Charge to Silence

Jesus’ command for silence regarding the miracle can be seen as multifaceted:

  • Divine Timing: Matthew Henry suggests that Christ often sought to avoid premature fame and misunderstanding about his mission. The proclamation of this miracle could spark misinterpretations about his purpose, leading to an untimely recognition as a political messianic figure.
  • Preservation of Faith: Albert Barnes notes that Jesus' command might have been aimed at ensuring that the faith of Jairus and his household remained intact, uninfluenced by sensationalism or the crowd's potential disbelief.
  • Personal Intimacy: Adam Clarke emphasizes the personal, intimate nature of the miracle. By keeping it secret, Jesus strengthens the personal relationship with Jairus and his daughter, emphasizing that the work done is for them and not for public spectacle.

2. Providing for the Needs of the Girl

Jesus’ instruction to provide something for the girl to eat reinforces several theological points:

  • Holistic Care: This act underscores the holistic nature of Jesus’ healing ministry. It is not enough to restore life; it is also essential to care for physical needs. Spiritual and physical sustenance are intertwined.
  • Symbol of New Life: The act of eating signifies a return to life. In ancient near-eastern culture, eating is an important indication of health. As Adam Clarke describes, this gesture serves as a testament to the girl’s restored vitality and reintegration into her family.
  • Invitation to Community: By encouraging the family to share in the girl’s restoration, Jesus also highlights the importance of community support during times of crisis, urging the observers (albeit in secrecy) to partake in the joyous reality of her revival.

Theological Implications

The events surrounding Mark 5:43 present profound implications for theology:

  • Jesus’ Authority: This passage reinforces Jesus' divine authority over life and death, a recurring theme in Mark’s Gospel. Through this miracle, readers are reminded that he possesses power beyond the natural laws that govern existence.
  • Faith and Healing: The narrative juxtaposes faith—demonstrated by Jairus and the woman with the issue of blood—against the backdrop of despair. It reveals that faith is a vital component in experiencing the transformative works of Christ.
  • Compassion in Ministry: Jesus’ concern for both the spiritual and physical state of those he heals is a model for ministerial practice today. Pastors and leaders are called to attend to both categories, promoting wholeness in their congregations.

Final Thoughts

Mark 5:43 embodies the heart of the Gospel, a profound blend of power, compassion, and the call to nurture faith in community. As pastors, students, and theologians engage with this text, they are invited to reflect deeply on the nature of Jesus’ mission and the implications for their lives and ministries. Christ invites us not only to witness his miracles but also to participate in the ongoing work of restoration, both physically and spiritually.