Mark 11:6
And they said unto them even as Jesus had commanded: and they let them go.
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
The phrase "the Lord has need" apparently satisfied the questioners, suggesting Jesus had developed a reputation in the Jerusalem area during previous visits (John's Gospel records multiple trips). Alternatively, the owner may have been present among the bystanders and granted permission. The Greek construction suggests immediate compliance—no extended negotiation or debate. This incident occurred on Sunday of Passion Week, likely in the early morning as Jesus prepared for His triumphal entry. Within days, Jesus would face very different questioners (Pharisees, Sadducees, scribes, Herodians) who would not be satisfied by His answers but would seek to trap Him. The contrast between the bystanders' easy acceptance here and the religious leaders' hostile rejection illustrates the divided response to Jesus—some receive Him gladly while others oppose Him violently.
Questions for Reflection
- What does the bystanders' acceptance of 'the Lord has need of him' reveal about Jesus' reputation and authority in the Jerusalem area?
- How does this incident's smooth resolution build confidence in Jesus' predictions about His death and resurrection?
- In what ways does faithful repetition of Jesus' words provide authority and direction in challenging situations today?
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Analysis & Commentary
And they said unto them even as Jesus had commanded: and they let them go (οἱ δὲ εἶπαν αὐτοῖς καθὼς εἶπεν ὁ Ἰησοῦς, καὶ ἀφῆκαν αὐτούς)—the disciples' simple obedience to Jesus' instructions produces the predicted result. The phrase even as Jesus had commanded emphasizes exact compliance—they repeated Jesus' words precisely. The verb aphēkan (ἀφῆκαν) means the bystanders "released" or "let go" the disciples, the same root verb (aphiēmi) used throughout Scripture for forgiveness—to release, let go, send away.
This brief verse demonstrates that Jesus' word carries authority sufficient to resolve conflicts and provide for His purposes. The bystanders' acceptance of the explanation "the Lord has need of him" suggests either recognition of Jesus' authority or the Holy Spirit's work inclining hearts to cooperate with God's redemptive plan. The seamless fulfillment of Jesus' prediction builds narrative tension toward His Jerusalem entry and strengthens reader confidence in His prophetic statements about His death and resurrection.