Mar 4:13 And he said unto them, Know ye not this parable? and how then will ye know all parables? Now Jesus seems to be a little surprised that the disciples don't get it. He tells them; If you don’t understand this parable, you won’t understand any of them. So, Jesus is going to explain the parable to them.

Mar 4:14 The sower soweth the word. The sower (farmer), is the one who plants seed (the Word), by taking it to others. The people that hear the Word represent the different types of soil.

Mar 4:15 And these are they by the way side, where the word is sown; but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts. The birds of the field represent Satan that comes immediately and takes the seed (Word of God), away that did not take falling by the roadside. Why? Because they did not understand or care about what they had heard. (Matthew 13:19). 

Mar 4:16 And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness; The seed on the rocky soil represents those who hear the message, sounds good, and they receive it with joy. (Matthew 13:20). Yea... I'll listen to what they have to say for now. 

Mar 4:17 And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word's sake, immediately they are offended. Those in the rocky soil have no deep roots. (No real understanding in the Word). They fall away as soon as they have problems, are offended, or are persecuted for believing Gods Word. (Matthew 13:21). "Here today gone tomorrow."

Mar 4:18 And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word, The seed that fell among the thorns represent others who hear the Word. "They are not truly interested."

Mar 4:19 And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful. Here we have the message of God choked out by the worries of the world. To busy thinking about wealth, fame, sexual desires, greed, etc. This is where the majority of people are today in their so called Christian lives. "To much television and not enough of Gods Word." (You can't produce good fruit if you are caught up in the ways of the world).

Mar 4:20 And these are they which are sown on good ground; such as hear the word, and receive it, and bring forth fruit, some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some an hundred. The seed that fell on the good soil represents those people who hear the Word with understanding. "They accept the truth and produce good harvest." (Matthew 13:23). (If God gives you much, He expects much in return). Always be willing to share the truth with those who will listen. (Colossians 1:10, 1 Thessalonians 4:1). "For those who do not, just move on."

Mar 4:21 And he said unto them, Is a candle brought to be put under a bushel, or under a bed? and not to be set on a candlestick? Jesus talked about this on the Sermon on the Mount. (Matthew 5:14-16). Christ is the light and we reflect that light. When God gives you a truth, share it. Don’t hide it. "A truth is not just for you, it is for the whole family of God." 

Mar 4:22 For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested; neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad. Everything hidden will be brought into the open, and every secret will be brought to the light. i.e. Everything will be made known, or will come to pass. (Luke 8:17, 1 Corinthians 4:5).

Mar 4:23 If any man have ears to hear, let him hear. If you have ears to hear and understand. 

Mar 4:24 And he said unto them, Take heed what ye hear: with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you: and unto you that hear shall more be given. Jesus added; Pay attention when listening to the Word. The more you pay attention and absorb, the more understanding will be given to you. Did you ever hear a truth and then go home, research and study about that truth? Usually when you do, you get a better understanding and you will receive even more. (If you do not understand, put it aside for a later time and it will all come together). 

Mar 4:25 For he that hath, to him shall be given: and he that hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he hath. If you listen to the teachings of Christ, the more you will be given. However, those who do not listen, what little understanding they have will be taken away. i.e. The truth will die if you do not exercise the spirit. Meditate, search and study the Word and God will always give you more. (proverbs 1:7). This is the beginning of knowledge.

Mar 4:26 And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground; Now Jesus will tell us what the Kingdom of God is like. (Remember that the seed is the Word of God). 

Mar 4:27 And should sleep, and rise night and day, and the seed should spring and grow up, he knoweth not how. A farmer does not need to know how a seed grows, he just needs to know how to plant it and attend to it. The same is with God's Word. You can't control how a truth will take when you share it with someone. You just share the truth and God will make grow in that person if it is His will. "Every truth may effect a person in a different way."

Mar 4:28 For the earth bringeth forth fruit of herself; first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear. The earth produces the crops on it's own. First the leaf blade, then the head of the wheat is formed, then finally the grain ripens. "God's rule of nature." It works that way for His children also. (Isaiah 61:11). 

Mar 4:29 But when the fruit is brought forth, immediately he putteth in the sickle, because the harvest is come. As soon as the grain is ready (not before), it is time for harvest. (You can't force nature). "Never harvest a bud before it's time." So, be patient when you plant a seed of truth, you cannot force someone to hear the truth. You can only plant the seed. "Some may not even be able to hear the truth if the spirit of slumber is upon them." (Romans 11:8).

Mar 4:30 And he said, Whereunto shall we liken the kingdom of God? or with what comparison shall we compare it? Hmmm. How can I explain the Kingdom of God so you understand clearly? Jesus comes up with another illustration.

Mar 4:31 It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when it is sown in the earth, is less than all the seeds that be in the earth: The mustard seed is the smallest of all the seeds. Its seed was probably the smallest known to the Jews; and though its ordinary height does not exceed four feet, yet a species grows to the height of from three to five cubits, with a tapering, ligneous stalk, and spreading branches.  

Mar 4:32 But when it is sown, it groweth up, and becometh greater than all herbs, and shooteth out great branches; so that the fowls of the air may lodge under the shadow of it. When it is full grown, it can be the largest of all the garden plants. The Kingdom of God is the same way. It started with just a few followers of Christ and grew into a larger family of millions of Christians. (Some have suggested that the birds that nest in the shadow of it represent evil people that enter the church). However, we don't worry about them, God will weed out all the false teachers and bad apples.

Mar 4:33 And with many such parables spake he the word unto them, as they were able to hear it. Jesus used many simple illustrations to teach the people. When you teach or share a truth, be simple and to the point (teach on different levels), and people will understand better. First the milk, then the meat of the Word. (1 Corinthians 3:1-2, Hebrews 5:11-14).

Mar 4:34 But without a parable spake he not unto them: and when they were alone, he expounded all things to his disciples. Jesus always used parables when teaching the general public. However, when He was alone with the apostles, He went into deeper studies. Such as the parable of the tares. "Kept secret since the foundation of the world." (Matthew 13:24-30, John 8:44). The tares are about Cain, the devil, and the kenites. (Read our newsletter study topic titled: Son of Cain).

Mar 4:35 And the same day, when the even was come, he saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side. Jesus and His disciples decided to cross over to the other side of the lake. 

Mar 4:36 And when they had sent away the multitude, they took him even as he was in the ship. And there were also with him other little ships. They entered the boat and started out. 

Mar 4:37 And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full. A storm arose and began to fill the boat with water. (Matthew 8:23-24, Luke 8:22-23).

Mar 4:38 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? The disciples woke up Jesus and were worried about sinking. (Jesus already told them they were going over). Were they doubting Jesus? Was this a test for them? (Hebrews 13:5-6), tells us that God will never fail us or forsake us.

Mar 4:39 And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. Jesus woke and rebuked the wind and waves and the storm suddenly stopped. It shows us that Jesus is with us in the world and will always take care of us if we are one of His children. 

Mar 4:40 And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith? He asked them; why they were afraid, where is your faith? "After all, they had God with them, what was there to fear."

Mar 4:41 And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him? This was the first time they have seen anything like this. Even the wind and the waves obey Him the disciples said. They were a little scared about what had happened, but there was no reason to be. Again, God was with them.

Mark 5

Mar 5:1 And they came over unto the other side of the sea, into the country of the Gadarenes. After they weathered the storm, they came to the other side of the lake in the region of the Garasenes. 

Mar 5:2 And when he was come out of the ship, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit, Jesus gets out of the boat and a man that had an evil spirit came out from the cemetery to meet Him. (Kind of like a scene from the night of the living dead).

Mar 5:3 Who had his dwelling among the tombs; and no man could bind him, no, not with chains: This man lived among the burial caves, and could no longer be restrained. (A good place for a man with an unclean spirit to live).

Mar 5:4 Because that he had been often bound with fetters and chains, and the chains had been plucked asunder by him, and the fetters broken in pieces: neither could any man tame him. Whenever they tried to bind the man, he would break the chains and shackles. "No man or woman could subdue the possessed man." (Lets see what Christ does).

Mar 5:5 And always, night and day, he was in the mountains, and in the tombs, crying, and cutting himself with stones. This man wandered among the burial caves howling and cutting himself. Satan wanted to hurt the man as he wants to hurt all Christians. (John 10:10, 1 Peter 5:8).

Mar 5:6 But when he saw Jesus afar off, he ran and worshipped him, The man saw Jesus from far off and ran to meet Him. Even the evil spirits know who Christ was. Why? Because they were with Him in the first earth age, before one third of the angels followed Satan. For a better understanding of the first earth age, read out newsletter study topic titled: "Three Earth Ages."

Mar 5:7 And cried with a loud voice, and said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of the most high God? I adjure thee by God, that thou torment me not. The evil spirit knew he was in trouble now, and asked Jesus; What do you want with me? "Please don't torture me." 

Mar 5:8 For he said unto him, Come out of the man, thou unclean spirit. Jesus had already said to the evil spirit, "Come out of this man." 

Mar 5:9 And he asked him, What is thy name? And he answered, saying, My name is Legion: for we are many. Then Jesus asked the spirit; "What is you name?" The spirit replied; "My name is Legion," there are many of us in this man. (A legion is usually around 6,000 men). Did this man have that many evil spirits in him? Maybe not 6,000, but I believe it was a figure of speech for "many evil spirits." Can someone be possessed by more than one evil spirit? Absolutely... Remember, Mary Magdalene had been possessed with seven devils. (Mark 16:9).

Mar 5:10 And he besought him much that he would not send them away out of the country. The evil spirits begged Jesus not to send them out. (They needed a body to exist in). Now we will see how many spirits there were.

Mar 5:11 Now there was there nigh unto the mountains a great herd of swine feeding. There was a large number of pigs feeding on a nearby hillside. 

Mar 5:12 And all the devils besought him, saying, Send us into the swine, that we may enter into them. The spirits knew they were going to be cast out of the man, so they would settle for the lowest carnal flesh. (A pig).

Mar 5:13 And forthwith Jesus gave them leave. And the unclean spirits went out, and entered into the swine: and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the sea, (they were about two thousand;) and were choked in the sea. So, Jesus gave them permission to enter the swine, and they left the man, and entered into about 2,000 pigs. Just like the man, the pigs didn't even want to put up with the evil spirits, so they ran down the hillside into a lake and drowned themselves in the water. (Matthew 8:32).

Mar 5:14 And they that fed the swine fled, and told it in the city, and in the country. And they went out to see what it was that was done. The herdsmen just lost 2,000 head of stock, so they ran into town to tell people what had just happened. (Might of been a little upset because of their livestock). "Then the people rushed out to see for themselves what was going on." 

Mar 5:15 And they come to Jesus, and see him that was possessed with the devil, and had the legion, sitting, and clothed, and in his right mind: and they were afraid. When the people came to Jesus, He was sitting with the man that was possessed. "They were a little afraid." (Were they afraid of what Jesus had done, or because they had just lost all their stock)? I think a little of both.

Mar 5:16 And they that saw it told them how it befell to him that was possessed with the devil, and also concerning the swine. The news spread to the others real quickly.

Mar 5:17 And they began to pray him to depart out of their coasts. They didn't understand what had just happened, and they wanted Jesus out of there.

Mar 5:18 And when he was come into the ship, he that had been possessed with the devil prayed him that he might be with him. The man was in his right mind now and wanted to follow Jesus. (Kind of like a recovering alcoholic, or drug addict). However, Jesus has another plan for this man.

Mar 5:19 Howbeit Jesus suffered him not, but saith unto him, Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee. Jesus tells the man to go home and tell his friends and family what the Lord has done for Him. (He made a teacher out of him and a great witness to all his friends and family). "A good witness is worth their weight in gold."

Mar 5:20 And he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis how great things Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel. The man visited the ten cities southeast of the Sea of Galilee proclaiming the great things Jesus had done for him; and everyone was amazed. (I would call that a pretty good witness).

Mar 5:21 And when Jesus was passed over again by ship unto the other side, much people gathered unto him: and he was nigh unto the sea. Jesus gets into the boat again and heads back to the other side of the lake where the crowds gathered by the shore. (Matthew 9:1, Luke 8:40).

Mar 5:22 And, behold, there cometh one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name; and when he saw him, he fell at his feet, Now here comes one of the religious leaders named Jairus. He may have been in the synagogue when Jesus healed the man with a withered hand, or he may have been part of the leaders who was trying to destroy Jesus. Now, his only daughter is in danger of dying and he needs Jesus to touch her. (Matthew 9:18-19, Luke 8:41-42).

Mar 5:23 And besought him greatly, saying, My little daughter lieth at the point of death: I pray thee, come and lay thy hands on her, that she may be healed; and she shall live. Jairus pleaded with Jesus to come and heal her and let her live.

Mar 5:24 And Jesus went with him; and much people followed him, and thronged him. Jesus went with him and the people followed.

Mar 5:25 And a certain woman, which had an issue of blood twelve years, There was a woman in the crowd that had blood issues for twelve years. (An example of the twelve tribes). The twelve tribes had many issues that needed healing. 

Mar 5:26 And had suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was nothing bettered, but rather grew worse, She seen many doctors and spent all her money, but no one healed her. "She just got worse." 

Mar 5:27 When she had heard of Jesus, came in the press behind, and touched his garment. She heard about Jesus, and snuck up behind Him and touched His robe. (She had the faith).

Mar 5:28 For she said, If I may touch but his clothes, I shall be whole. She knew if she just touched His robe, she would be healed. (Again, she had great faith). 

Mar 5:29 And straightway the fountain of her blood was dried up; and she felt in her body that she was healed of that plague. Immediately when she touch His robe she was healed. (life and healing as an example to the twelve tribes).

Mar 5:30 And Jesus, immediately knowing in himself that virtue had gone out of him, turned him about in the press, and said, Who touched my clothes? Jesus realized and felt His healing power go out from Him, so He turned around and asked who had touch His robe.

Mar 5:31 And his disciples said unto him, Thou seest the multitude thronging thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me? The disciples said, with so many people here in the crowd, how do we know who touch you?

Mar 5:32 And he looked round about to see her that had done this thing. Christ knew who it was. He wanted the person to come forward.

Mar 5:33 But the woman fearing and trembling, knowing what was done in her, came and fell down before him, and told him all the truth. The woman was frightened, but came forward, fell to her knees, and told Jesus what she had done. 

Mar 5:34 And he said unto her, Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague. "Jesus said to the woman, your faith has made you well, go in peace."

Mar 5:35 While he yet spake, there came from the ruler of the synagogue's house certain which said, Thy daughter is dead: why troublest thou the Master any further? But, while Jesus was still speaking to the woman, a message arrived from the home of Jairus that his daughter was dead. "No need to trouble Jesus now."

Mar 5:36 As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, he saith unto the ruler of the synagogue, Be not afraid, only believe. But, Jesus overheard them and said to Jairus, "Don't be afraid; just have faith." "Believe and she will be fine, Jesus is saying." (Luke 8:50).

Mar 5:37 And he suffered no man to follow him, save Peter, and James, and John the brother of James. Jesus knew these three had the faith. (Good to have those around who have faith when you need a healing for someone).

Mar 5:38 And he cometh to the house of the ruler of the synagogue, and seeth the tumult, and them that wept and wailed greatly. They were all bent out of shape and wailing over what they thought the girl being death. 

Mar 5:39 And when he was come in, he saith unto them, Why make ye this ado, and weep? the damsel is not dead, but sleepeth. Jesus went inside the house and "asked what all the weeping is about; the child is just asleep." (The girl already received the healing).

Mar 5:40 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. The crowed laughed at Jesus for saying she was just asleep. So, Jesus ordered them all out, except for the girls father, mother, and the three disciples. (He took just so many as prudence required, and as were sufficient to prove the reality of the cure; to have permitted the presence of more, might have savored of ostentation).

Mar 5:41 And he took the damsel by the hand, and said unto her, Talitha cumi; which is, being interpreted, Damsel, I say unto thee, arise. Jesus says to the little girl; "Talitha cumi." Aramaic for "Little lamb, arise." Why? Because they were in Syria and they spoke Aramaic. (Always speak in the language that people understand).

Mar 5:42 And straightway the damsel arose, and walked; for she was of the age of twelve years. And they were astonished with a great astonishment. And the girl who was "twelve years old," immediately stood up and walked around! "Healed by faith." (Here we have the number 12 again). A twelve year old girl and a woman with twelve years of sickness. Again, both symbolic of the twelve tribes of Israel. (An example that the 12 tribes of Israel could be healed and brought back to life again).

Mar 5:43 And he charged them straitly that no man should know it; and commanded that something should be given her to eat. Jesus gives those who were present strict orders not to tell anyone what had just happened. Then He tells them to feed her. (Luke 8:55). "Give her the meat of truth." (Another fantastic testimony of not only healing, but of life).

Mark 6

Mar 6:1 And he went out from thence, and came into his own country; and his disciples follow him. Jesus returns with the disciples to His home town of Nazareth.

Mar 6:2 And when the sabbath day was come, he began to teach in the synagogue: and many hearing him were astonished, saying, From whence hath this man these things? and what wisdom is this which is given unto him, that even such mighty works are wrought by his hands? They wanted to know how does this man know all these things?

Mar 6:3 Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us? And they were offended at him. They scoffed at Him and when they realized who He was and where He came from, they refused to believe in Him. He was just a Son of a carpenter and a carpenter by trade Himself. It is hard to get your family and friends to except a truth from you in God's Word without some kind of title. They know you and knew all the things you went through not being the perfect child. So, usually they will not listen to you.  

Mar 6:4 But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, but in his own country, and among his own kin, and in his own house. Jesus tells them; "A prophet is honored everywhere except in his own town." (Matthew 13:57, Luke 4:24, John 4:44). Your not alone if people closest to you have a hard time understanding what God has done for you in your life, or what your calling was. Jesus wasn't understood by those in His home town and family either. (Except possibly His mother Mary). I think she understood and believed in Him. (Mothers are like that).

Mar 6:5 And he could there do no mighty work, save that he laid his hands upon a few sick folk, and healed them. Because of their unbelief, Jesus couldn't do any miracles among them. (He laid hands on a few people, but that was about it). "No faith, no mighty works." God won’t deal with people where there is no faith.

Mar 6:6 And he marvelled because of their unbelief. And he went round about the villages, teaching. He was amazed at there unbelief, but that didn't stop Him from teaching. (If your friends and family won't listen to you when sharing a truth, don't worry, their are many hungry for the truth out there that will).

Mar 6:7 And he called unto him the twelve, and began to send them forth by two and two; and gave them power over unclean spirits; Jesus gave authority to His twelve disciples and He gives us authority also. (Luke 10:18-19). You have that authority over all your enemies, if you are a believer and follow His will.  

Mar 6:8 And commanded them that they should take nothing for their journey, save a staff only; no scrip, no bread, no money in their purse: They were sent out two by two as a witness with just a walking stick and the clothes on their backs. (Matthew 10:9-10, Luke 10:4, 22:35). (You don't need to beg for food or money when working for the Lord). "God takes care of His own."  

Mar 6:9 But be shod with sandals; and not put on two coats. Just the clothes and sandals they had on without a change of clothes. (He wanted them to keep it simple and to the point). i.e. travel light.

Mar 6:10 And he said unto them, In what place soever ye enter into an house, there abide till ye depart from that place. If a house receives you and your message, stay there until you leave town.

Mar 6:11 And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear you, when ye depart thence, shake off the dust under your feet for a testimony against them. Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city. If a house does not receive you, just move on. If they do not want to receive the truth, don’t worry about it. That is God’s job to make a seed grow.

Mar 6:12 And they went out, and preached that men should repent. Repent and turn to God. (Make a choice to change your ways for the better).

Mar 6:13 And they cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed them. Cast out many devils. Anoint with anointing oil. (Blessed olive oil). Christ means the anointed one. It is not the oil that does the healing, but the obedience to the act. (James 5:14-15). If you want to anoint someone or your home, take some pure olive oil, ask our Heavenly Father to bless it, and you have anointing oil. (You don't need to be a priest or pastor to anoint someone, just a believer).

Mar 6:14 And king Herod heard of him; (for his name was spread abroad:) and he said, That John the Baptist was risen from the dead, and therefore mighty works do shew forth themselves in him. Herod Antipas (son of Herod the great), heard about Jesus because the news was spreading fast about Him. Herod like to hear John the Baptist teach, and he thought that John the Baptist had been raised form the dead because of all the miracles he heard about.

Mar 6:15 Others said, That it is Elias. And others said, That it is a prophet, or as one of the prophets. Others thought Jesus was the prophet Elijah or another prophet. "They couldn't figure out who He was."

Mar 6:16 But when Herod heard thereof, he said, It is John, whom I beheaded: he is risen from the dead. Herod thought it might be John the Baptist (the one he beheaded), that came back from the dead.

Mar 6:17 For Herod himself had sent forth and laid hold upon John, and bound him in prison for Herodias' sake, his brother Philip's wife: for he had married her. Herod did a bad thing when he married his brothers wife Herodias.

Mar 6:18 For John had said unto Herod, It is not lawful for thee to have thy brother's wife. John the Baptist warned Herod that it was not lawful to marry his brothers wife. 

Mar 6:19 Therefore Herodias had a quarrel against him, and would have killed him; but she could not: So the wench Herodias had a grudge against John and wanted him killed. But, she needed Herod's approval. 

Mar 6:20 For Herod feared John, knowing that he was a just man and an holy, and observed him; and when he heard him, he did many things, and heard him gladly. Herod had great respect for John and protected him. (Again, he liked to hear John teach the Word). 

Mar 6:21 And when a convenient day was come, that Herod on his birthday made a supper to his lords, high captains, and chief estates of Galilee; Here comes the wenches chance. Herod had a big party on his birthday and all the high officials, army officers, and leading citizens were there. 

Mar 6:22 And when the daughter of the said Herodias came in, and danced, and pleased Herod and them that sat with him, the king said unto the damsel, Ask of me whatsoever thou wilt, and I will give it thee. Here is what went down. The daughter of Herodias (Salome), was sent in by her mother to dance for Herod and the other dirty old men that were present. (This was no dance recital). She performed a enticing sexual dance that had the drunken old men standing up in their seats. Not the kind of dance a daughter of a queen should be performing, but more like a stripper dance from a professional dancer or prostitute. "Herod was in awe, by the moves she had." Ask me for anything Herod tells the girl, "and I will give it to you." (You know what he wanted).

Mar 6:23 And he sware unto her, Whatsoever thou shalt ask of me, I will give it thee, unto the half of my kingdom. Herod was had. "He even vowed to give the girl whatever she asked, up to half of his kingdom." (Matthew 14:7). 

Mar 6:24 And she went forth, and said unto her mother, What shall I ask? And she said, The head of John the Baptist. The young girl went to her mother and asked what she should ask for. "Ask for the head of John the Baptist, she tells the girl." 

Mar 6:25 And she came in straightway with haste unto the king, and asked, saying, I will that thou give me by and by in a charger the head of John the Baptist. The girl hurried back and gave her demands. "I want the head of John the Baptist, right now, on a plate." (She turned out to be a bigger wench than her mother). 

Mar 6:26 And the king was exceeding sorry; yet for his oath's sake, and for their sakes which sat with him, he would not reject her. Herod would regret it, but he took an oath and could not go back on his word in front of his guests.

Mar 6:27 And immediately the king sent an executioner, and commanded his head to be brought: and he went and beheaded him in the prison, Immediately Herod sent an executioner to the prison and had John beheaded.

Mar 6:28 And brought his head in a charger, and gave it to the damsel: and the damsel gave it to her mother. The executioner brought the head on a tray and gave it to the girl, who took it to her mother. (What a sick family this was). Sound familiar? Remember, It's money, power, and sex, that rule this world.

Mar 6:29 And when his disciples heard of it, they came and took up his corpse, and laid it in a tomb. The disciples came and got the body of John the Baptist and buried him. (The one who prepared the way for the real Messiah).

Mar 6:30 And the apostles gathered themselves together unto Jesus, and told him all things, both what they had done, and what they had taught. They returned to Jesus and told Him about their ministry tour. 

Mar 6:31 And he said unto them, Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while: for there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat. They were very busy and needed a day off from their work. (You need to take a break once in a while from the Word). God does not want you to burn out, or work yourself into a frenzy. "When you need a break, take it."

Mar 6:32 And they departed into a desert place by ship privately. Took a little boat ride to a quiet place for a little rest and relaxation. 

Mar 6:33 And the people saw them departing, and many knew him, and ran afoot thither out of all cities, and outwent them, and came together unto him. Well, the people seen them leave and ran ahead along the shoreline getting there before them. (Not a very long break, back to work again).

Mar 6:34 And Jesus, when he came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd: and he began to teach them many things. Jesus saw the huge crowd as He got off the boat, and had compassion towards them, because they looked like sheep without a shepherd. So, He began to teach them, for He was the shepherd they needed. What is the key word here? "Compassion." A good mark of a Christian is one who has compassion towards others. (If you never feel for others who may not have it as good as you do, you are not a true Christian).

Mar 6:35 And when the day was now far spent, his disciples came unto him, and said, This is a desert place, and now the time is far passed: It was later in the day and the sun was about to go down.

Mar 6:36 Send them away, that they may go into the country round about, and into the villages, and buy themselves bread: for they have nothing to eat. The disciples wanted to send the people to nearby farms and villages so they could get something to eat. 

Mar 6:37 He answered and said unto them, Give ye them to eat. And they say unto him, Shall we go and buy two hundred pennyworth of bread, and give them to eat? Jesus tells them; feed the people. "How, the disciples asked?" Where are we going to get the money to feed all these people?

Mar 6:38 He saith unto them, How many loaves have ye? go and see. And when they knew, they say, Five, and two fishes. Jesus sent the disciples to see how much food they had. They came back with a count of five loaves of bread and two fish that a little boy had. (John 6:9).

Mar 6:39 And he commanded them to make all sit down by companies upon the green grass. Jesus tells them to have the people sit down in groups. (God is always organized).

Mar 6:40 And they sat down in ranks, by hundreds, and by fifties. They sat down in groups of fifty or a hundred. (1 Corinthians 14:40).

Mar 6:41 And when he had taken the five loaves and the two fishes, he looked up to heaven, and blessed, and brake the loaves, and gave them to his disciples to set before them; and the two fishes divided he among them all. Jesus took the loaves of bread (symbolic of the bread of life, which is Christ), blessed them, broke them into pieces, and gave them to His disciples to distribute to the people. Then He took the fish (symbolic of Christianity), blessed them, and gave them to His disciples also to distribute to the people for everyone to share. Note: Did Christ feed the multitude? No... Christ asked for the blessing and the disciples did the feeding. That is what He expects of us today, to do the feeding. The Holy Spirit gives us the ability and the knowledge to plant seeds and feed the people. (Feed them the Word of God).

Mar 6:42 And they did all eat, and were filled. They all ate as much as they wanted, and were all full. (When you teach the people, everyone has a different appetite for the Word, and some will absorb more than others).

Mar 6:43 And they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments, and of the fishes. After everyone ate, the disciples picked up twelve baskets of fragments. (Broken bread and fish). The twelve baskets are symbolic of the twelve tribes of Israel. (The fragments can represent false teachers and teachings that would come out of the twelve tribes).

Mar 6:44 And they that did eat of the loaves were about five thousand men. 5,000 men and their families. (A total of 10,000 to 15,000 people were fed).

Mar 6:45 And straightway he constrained his disciples to get into the ship, and to go to the other side before unto Bethsaida, while he sent away the people. Jesus tells the disciples to get back into the boat and head across the lake to Bethsaida (house of fish), so they could get away.

Mar 6:46 And when he had sent them away, he departed into a mountain to pray. After Jesus tells everyone good-bye, He went up into the hills by Himself to pray. (Matthew 14:23, Luke 6:12).

Mar 6:47 And when even was come, the ship was in the midst of the sea, and he alone on the land. The disciples were in the boat in the middle of the lake and Jesus was alone on land.

Mar 6:48 And he saw them toiling in rowing; for the wind was contrary unto them: and about the fourth watch of the night he cometh unto them, walking upon the sea, and would have passed by them. Jesus saw that they were in trouble and struggling against the wind and waves. (My hometown is located on lake Erie, and being a small lake, it can be very stormy when the winds kick up, with waves 10-15 feet at times). Around 3:00 in the morning (the forth watch), Jesus started walking towards them on the water. "He intended to go past them." Why? "He wanted them to ask for help." (When in need, Jesus is not just going to fix your problems, He wants you to ask for His help). "Ask and you shall receive."

Mar 6:49 But when they saw him walking upon the sea, they supposed it had been a spirit, and cried out: The disciples were afraid when they seen Him walking on the water (thinking He was a spirit), and they cried out in terror. (Luke 24:37).

Mar 6:50 For they all saw him, and were troubled. And immediately he talked with them, and saith unto them, Be of good cheer: it is I; be not afraid. Jesus spoke to them and told them not to be afraid. "There will be times in life when you get afraid like the disciples were, but do not fear, Christ will be there if you call on Him." (Isaiah 43:2).

Mar 6:51 And he went up unto them into the ship; and the wind ceased: and they were sore amazed in themselves beyond measure, and wondered. Jesus climbed into the boat, the winds stopped, and they were all amazed.  

Mar 6:52 For they considered not the miracle of the loaves: for their heart was hardened. There hearts were hardened and they understood nothing about what had just happened, or about the miracle of the loaves of bread. "So common for man to forget." Especially the teaching of the feeding. (Matthew 16:6, 16:11-12), gives a better explanation. The Levin is the false doctrine of the Pharisees and Sadducees. Beware of false prophets and teachers in the world.

Mar 6:53 And when they had passed over, they came into the land of Gennesaret, and drew to the shore. They crossed the lake and landed at Gennesaret and brought the boat to shore. 

Mar 6:54 And when they were come out of the ship, straightway they knew him, The people recognized Jesus as soon as He climbed out of the boat.

Mar 6:55 And ran through that whole region round about, and began to carry about in beds those that were sick, where they heard he was. Throughout the whole area, they brought their loved ones that were sick wherever He was. 

Mar 6:56 And whithersoever he entered, into villages, or cities, or country, they laid the sick in the streets, and besought him that they might touch if it were but the border of his garment: and as many as touched him were made whole. Wherever Jesus went the people followed and begged Him to let the sick just touch His robe, and all who did were healed. (Just to touch His robe, they showed their faith in Him).

Mark 7

Mar 7:1 Then came together unto him the Pharisees, and certain of the scribes, which came from Jerusalem. Here comes the scripture lawyers. More trouble for Jesus and His disciples.

Mar 7:2 And when they saw some of his disciples eat bread with defiled, that is to say, with unwashen, hands, they found fault. Right away they noticed that some of His disciples did not follow the ceremonial hand washing before eating. (More traditions of men). These guys had a ritual for everything. Kind of like many do today. "All show and no go."

Mar 7:3 For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, except they wash their hands oft, eat not, holding the tradition of the elders. Again, traditions of men. They considered eating with unwashed hands no ordinary crime, and feigning that an evil spirit, called Shibta, has a right to sit on the food of him who thus eats, and render it hurtful. (Matthew 15:2-6).

Mar 7:4 And when they come from the market, except they wash, they eat not. And many other things there be, which they have received to hold, as the washing of cups, and pots, brasen vessels, and of tables. So, when they come from the market, they have a tradition of immersing their hands in water before they can eat anything. (Kind of like a hand baptism). 

Mar 7:5 Then the Pharisees and scribes asked him, Why walk not thy disciples according to the tradition of the elders, but eat bread with unwashen hands? Why don't they follow the traditions of our elders the Pharisees and Sadducees they asked?

Mar 7:6 He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. Jesus replies; "You bunch of hypocrites!" Isaiah prophesied about you, and he wrote, "these people honor Me with their lips, but not their hearts." (Isaiah 29:13). They talk about religion and traditions, but not the Word of God.

Mar 7:7 Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. Their worship is a joke; they just teach traditions of men and false teachings. (Matthew 15:9, Colossians 2:22).

Mar 7:8 For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do. You ignore God's law and substitute it for your own traditions. (A mark of a hypocrite). It appears today that almost every church has their own special tradition of men to make them stand out on their own.

Mar 7:9 And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition. You sidestep God's law in order to hold on to your own traditions. (So many churches today with their own rituals and traditions and they never get down to the truth in the Word). Do not be deceived!

Mar 7:10 For Moses said, Honour thy father and thy mother; and, Whoso curseth father or mother, let him die the death: The fifth of the ten commandments of God. "Honor thy father and thy mother." (So much disrespect towards parents and elder people today). "You younger generation better get your act together." (You see the consequences). 

Mar 7:11 But ye say, If a man shall say to his father or mother, It is Corban, that is to say, a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; he shall be free. "Corban is a gift to the church." Jesus tells them that they say it is even right for people to say to their parents, "Sorry, I can't help you, because I have vowed to give to the church what I would have given you." It was common among the Jews that the Pharisees released a child from supporting his parents; and even deemed it sacrilege if he afterwards gave anything for their use.

Mar 7:12 And ye suffer him no more to do ought for his father or his mother; Jesus tells them; You don’t care about their father or mother. "You just want the money." (Sound familiar with all the begging churches out there). "Take care of the needs of your family first." (1 Timothy 5:8). "If you do not take care of your family first, you have denied the faith and are worse than an infidel." Don't be scammed by cons!

Mar 7:13 Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye. You cancel out the Word of God in order to hand down your own traditions. "Christ warned against these traditions of men." (Matthew 15:6, Titus 1:14).

Mar 7:14 And when he had called all the people unto him, he said unto them, Hearken unto me every one of you, and understand: Listen and try to understand, Jesus tells the people. 

Mar 7:15 There is nothing from without a man, that entering into him can defile him: but the things which come out of him, those are they that defile the man. It is not what goes into your body that defiles you; it is what comes out of your mouth and heart." i.e. don't be a false teacher. (Proverbs 4:23).

Mar 7:16 If any man have ears to hear, let him hear. Here comes a deeper truth.  

Mar 7:17 And when he was entered into the house from the people, his disciples asked him concerning the parable. The disciples didn't get the parable, so Jesus will explain it so they will.

Mar 7:18 And he saith unto them, Are ye so without understanding also? Do ye not perceive, that whatsoever thing from without entereth into the man, it cannot defile him; Can't you understand that the food you eat cannot defile you? 

Mar 7:19 Because it entereth not into his heart, but into the belly, and goeth out into the draught, purging all meats? "Food does not enter the heart; it goes through the stomach then out to the sewer."

Mar 7:20 And he said, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man. It's what you say that you are held accountable for.

Mar 7:21 For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, Deep from within, from the heart comes evil thoughts, sexual immorality, and murder. 

Mar 7:22 Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: Theft, adultery, wickedness, greed, lustful desires, envy, slander, pride, and foolishness. (That quite a list of defilements). "Remember, we are all sinners; so don't get to puffed up thinking you have never sinned."

Mar 7:23 All these evil things come from within, and defile the man. All these things from within are what defiles a man. (1 Corinthians 3:17, Titus 1:15).

Mar 7:24 And from thence he arose, and went into the borders of Tyre and Sidon, and entered into an house, and would have no man know it: but he could not be hid. Now Jesus leaves Galilee and headed north to the region of Tyre and Sidon (a place in Palestine). He didn't want anyone to know what house He was staying in (they wanted to get away from the crowds for a while), but He could not keep it a secret.  

Mar 7:25 For a certain woman, whose young daughter had an unclean spirit, heard of him, and came and fell at his feet: Right away a woman of faith found Jesus and fell at His feet. (Her little girl was possessed by an evil spirit).

Mar 7:26 The woman was a Greek, a Syrophenician by nation; and she besought him that he would cast forth the devil out of her daughter. The woman was Grecian (a Gentile woman), born in Syrian Phoenicia.  

Mar 7:27 But Jesus said unto her, Let the children first be filled: for it is not meet to take the children's bread, and to cast it unto the dogs. The Jews would normally describe the Gentiles as dogs. But, Jesus simply tells the woman that the purpose of His ministry was to minister to His disciples and it wasn't appropriate to interrupt His ministry to His children for her. 

Mar 7:28 And she answered and said unto him, Yes, Lord: yet the dogs under the table eat of the children's crumbs. The woman replies, "That's true Lord, but even the dogs under the table are allowed to eat the scraps from the children's plates." The woman wanted just a touch from Him for her daughter, because she had humility and compassion for her own.

Mar 7:29 And he said unto her, For this saying go thy way; the devil is gone out of thy daughter. Jesus liked the woman's answer and said to her; "Go home, the demon has left your daughter." Why? She showed she had faith in Jesus and now she had power over Satan. (Luke 10:18, Matthew 5:3).

Mar 7:30 And when she was come to her house, she found the devil gone out, and her daughter laid upon the bed. When the woman arrived home, her daughter was cleansed from the evil spirit. 

Mar 7:31 And again, departing from the coasts of Tyre and Sidon, he came unto the sea of Galilee, through the midst of the coasts of Decapolis. Jesus circled around the area of Galilee and the region of the Ten Towns. (Matthew 4:25).

Mar 7:32 And they bring unto him one that was deaf, and had an impediment in his speech; and they beseech him to put his hand upon him. The man could not hear; he could speak but was hard to understand.

Mar 7:33 And he took him aside from the multitude, and put his fingers into his ears, and he spit, and touched his tongue; Jesus takes the man aside to minister one-on-one. This was clearly a symbolical action; for these remedies evidently could not, by their natural efficacy, avail to produce so wonderful an effect. As the ears of the deaf appear closed, he applies his fingers to intimate that he would open them; and as the tongue of the dumb seems to be tied, or to cleave to the palate, he touches it, to intimate he would give loose and free motion to it. He accommodated himself to the weakness of those who might not indeed doubt his power, but fancy some external sign was requisite to healing. It was also thus made manifest, that this salutiferous power came from Himself, and that He who by one word, had healed the man, must be Divine. Yes, He was divine... "Emanuel, "God with us."

Mar 7:34 And looking up to heaven, he sighed, and saith unto him, Ephphatha, that is, Be opened. Jesus looked up to heaven and said to the man, "Ephphatha" Strong's G2188 "be opened."

Mar 7:35 And straightway his ears were opened, and the string of his tongue was loosed, and he spake plain. Instantly the man could hear perfectly, and his tongue was freed so he could speak plainly.

Mar 7:36 And he charged them that they should tell no man: but the more he charged them, so much the more a great deal they published it; Jesus again tells the crowd not to tell anyone, but they were amazed and the news spread rapidly. (People just can't keep their mouth shut).