Commentary on Mark 7:35

Mark 7:35 states: "And straightway his ears were opened, and the string of his tongue was loosed, and he spake plain."

Introduction

The account found in Mark 7:35 illustrates a miraculous healing performed by Jesus, emphasizing both the physical and spiritual aspects of His ministry. This verse serves as a crucial point in understanding the nature of Jesus as the Messiah and His compassion for human suffering.

Context of the Passage

Before addressing the specific verse, it is important to consider the surrounding context of Mark 7. The prior verses recount Jesus' encounter with a deaf and mute man from the region of Decapolis. This setting provides insight into the cultural implications of Jesus’ actions, as well as His authority over physical ailments.

Significance of the Miracle

• Affirmation of Jesus' Divine Authority: The healing of the deaf and mute man affirms Jesus' divine authority, a theme prevalent in Mark’s Gospel. Commentators like Matthew Henry emphasize that this miracle is proof of Christ’s power over the effects of sin and the brokenness in creation.
• Demonstration of Compassion: Across public domain commentaries, Albert Barnes notes that Jesus often showed compassion to those marginalized or suffering. His approach to the deaf and mute man highlights Jesus' empathy and willingness to restore life to those seemingly without hope.
• Fulfillment of Prophecy: Adam Clarke points to the prophetic implications of this miracle, referencing Isaiah 35:5-6, which foretells the coming of the Messiah who would restore sight to the blind and hearing to the deaf.

Exegesis of Mark 7:35

Opening of the Ears

The phrase "his ears were opened" signifies more than a mere physical restoration; it symbolizes the opening of understanding and spiritual receptivity. Commentators suggest that hearing is often a metaphor for comprehending God's word and truth.

Loosening of the Tongue

The "string of his tongue was loosed" denotes not only the physical ability to speak but also the freedom to express praise and worship. Matthew Henry notes that the ability to communicate effectively is a gift that should be used to glorify God.

Spoke Plainly

Finally, the phrase "and he spake plain" indicates that the man's speech was not only restored but made clear. According to Albert Barnes, this clarity in speech reflects the transformative power of Christ's healing, as well as the restoration of order to a chaotic condition.

Theological Implications

Mark 7:35 holds considerable theological significance, revealing deeper truths about Jesus Christ.

• Nature of Healing: The healing underscores the dual aspect of Christ’s mission—to address both physical ailments and spiritual blindness. Adam Clarke elaborates that physical healings serve as a sign pointing to the greater spiritual healing available through faith in Christ.
• Inclusion of the Marginalized: This miracle, occurring outside Israel amongst Gentiles, indicates the universal scope of Jesus' ministry. The inclusivity inherent in this act challenges traditional views of religious and cultural boundaries.
• Response to Miracles: The restoration of the man's ability to speak serves as a call to respond to God's works by sharing the gospel. Commentators suggest that those who have encountered Christ should proclaim His goodness, similar to how the healed man would likely have done.

Practical Application for Believers

Mark 7:35 invites believers to reflect on how Jesus restores not only physical ailments but also the deeper wounds of sin and despair.

• Seeking Restoration: Believers are encouraged to consider areas of their own lives where they may need Christ’s healing touch—emotionally, spiritually, or relationally.
• Communicating the Gospel: The transformation experienced by the healed man urges Christians to be vocal about their faith—sharing their testimony of God’s work in their lives.
• Empathy and Outreach: Drawing from Jesus' example, the passage challenges individuals to reach out to those who are suffering or marginalized, embodying His compassion in practical ways.

Conclusion

Mark 7:35 presents a powerful illustration of Jesus’ authority and compassion through the miraculous healing of a deaf and mute man. Through public domain commentaries, insights from theologians like Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke enrich our understanding of this passage, revealing its profound theological implications and the call to practical application in the lives of believers today.