Mark 11:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Mark 11:5
5 And certain of them that stood there said unto them, What do ye, loosing the colt?
Chapter Context
Mark 11 is a action-oriented gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of worship, creation, judgment. Written during the mid first century CE (c. 65-70 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Composed during or just after Nero's persecution when eyewitnesses were disappearing.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-33: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Mark and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Mark 11:5
5 And certain of them that stood there said unto them, What do ye, loosing the colt?
Analysis
And certain of them that stood there said unto them, What do ye, loosing the colt? (Τί ποιεῖτε λύοντες τὸν πῶλον;)—the bystanders' challenge is natural and expected. Taking someone's animal without permission appears to be theft. The present participle lyontes (λύοντες, "loosing") emphasizes they were caught in the act. Mark's inclusion of this detail demonstrates the Gospel's honesty—it doesn't sanitize potential embarrassments but reports what happened authentically.
This confrontation creates dramatic tension: will the disciples be accused of theft? Will their explanation be accepted? The account shows that following Jesus sometimes requires actions that appear questionable to outsiders. The disciples' obedience to Jesus' instructions, even when challenged, models faithful discipleship that trusts Christ's word over human opinion. Their calm response (v. 6) reflects confidence in Jesus' authority and prophetic word.
Historical Context
Property rights were taken seriously in first-century Judaism, protected by the eighth commandment (Exodus 20:15). Taking an animal without permission could result in legal consequences or violent confrontation. The bystanders' question was legitimate and protective—they were safeguarding the owner's property. Their challenge also demonstrates that this was not a pre-arranged plan between Jesus and the owner; otherwise, bystanders would have been informed. The disciples' vulnerable position—caught taking an animal by multiple witnesses—required faith that Jesus' instructions would prove sufficient. This incident parallels other moments when following Jesus brought disciples into awkward or dangerous situations requiring trust: walking on water (Matthew 14:28-29), the temple tax coin (Matthew 17:24-27), finding the upper room (Mark 14:13-15).
Reflection
- How does this confrontation illustrate that obedience to Jesus sometimes requires actions that appear questionable to outsiders?
- What does the disciples' willingness to follow Jesus' instructions, even when challenged, teach about authentic discipleship?
- In what situations might faithful obedience to Christ conflict with conventional social expectations or propriety?