Mark 5:19
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Mark 5:19
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.
Chapter Context
Mark 5 is a action-oriented gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of creation, sacrifice, salvation. 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 21-43: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. 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 5:19
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.
Analysis
Go home to thy friends tell them how great things Lord has done for thee and has had compassion. Go home hypage eis ton oikon return to household. Thy friends tous sous relatives loved ones. Tell them apaggeilon announce proclaim. How great things hosa magnificent works. Lord ho kyrios sovereign ruler. Has done soi epoiēsen accomplished performed. For thee dative personal recipient. Has had compassion ēleēsen showed mercy. Delivered demoniac commissioned as missionary to Decapolis. Go home not follow Jesus in Galilee. Ministry begins where you are. Primary mission field is those who knew you before conversion. Greatest testimony is transformed life. Friends saw demon possession now see deliverance. Cannot deny change. Reformed theology emphasizes witness beginning in Jerusalem then Judea Samaria ends of earth. Start where you are faithful in little before much. Every believer called to testify not all called to vocational ministry.
Historical Context
Decapolis region ten Gentile cities east of Jordan. Man was from Gerasa (Gadara) area. Jesus did not usually minister in Gentile territory this was exception. Sending man home unique usually Jesus called disciples to follow Him physically. This man became missionary to his own people. Early church pattern Paul to Jews Peter to circumcised. Indigenous testimony most effective. Person from culture reaches culture better than outsider. Modern missions emphasizes indigenous leadership. Missionaries equip locals who reach their own people. Medieval missions often imposed foreign Christianity on converts. Reformation recovered biblical pattern of vernacular Scripture indigenous leadership. Cross-cultural missions requires both outside catalyst and inside ownership.
Reflection
- Why did Jesus send this man home rather than inviting him to follow as He did with others?
- How does missions beginning at home with friends and family demonstrate biblical evangelism pattern?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Psalms 66:16, John 4:29