Mark 5:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Mark 5:20
20 And he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis how great things Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel.
Chapter Context
Mark 5 is a action-oriented gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of love, discipleship, truth. 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 foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 5:20
20 And he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis how great things Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel.
Analysis
The healed man obeyed: 'he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis how great things Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel.' The verb 'publish' (κηρύσσειν) means herald, proclaim publicly—the same word used for preaching gospel. He proclaimed 'in Decapolis' (ἐν τῇ Δεκαπόλει)—the ten Gentile cities, not his hometown only. His message: 'how great things Jesus had done'—focusing on Christ's work. The result: 'all men did marvel' (πάντες ἐθαύμαζον)—widespread amazement. His testimony prepared region for Jesus' return (Mark 7:31). Transformed lives provide powerful evangelistic testimony. Personal experience of Christ's saving power naturally produces witness.
Historical Context
Decapolis ('ten cities') was confederation of Greco-Roman cities in region east/southeast of Sea of Galilee. Founded after Alexander the Great's conquests, these cities maintained Greek culture under Roman rule. They were predominantly Gentile with minority Jewish populations. The healed demoniac became first Gentile evangelist recorded in Mark, foreshadowing gospel's expansion to all nations. His testimony prepared receptive audience for Jesus' later ministry. Early church emphasized testimony's evangelistic power—transformed lives authenticate gospel. Church history demonstrates that personal testimony often opens doors closed to formal preaching.
Reflection
- How does your transformation story provide natural evangelistic opportunities?
- What prevents you from openly 'publishing' what great things Jesus has done for you?
- How can you follow this man's example—proclaiming Christ's work in your sphere of influence?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Mark 7:31, Matthew 4:25