Mark 6:56
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Mark 6:56
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.
Chapter Context
Mark 6 is a action-oriented gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of hope, righteousness, wisdom. 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 21-56: 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 6:56
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.
Analysis
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—'villages, cities, or country'—people 'laid the sick in the streets' (marketplaces, ἀγορὰς, agoras). They 'besought him that they might touch... the border of his garment.' This echoed the hemorrhaging woman's faith (Mark 5:27-28). 'As many as touched him were made whole' (ὅσοι ἂν ἥψαντο αὐτοῦ ἐσῴζοντο, hosoi an hēpsanto autou esōzonto)—universal healing, none disappointed. This demonstrates Christ's unlimited healing power and compassionate availability.
Historical Context
The 'border of his garment' (κρασπέδου τοῦ ἱματίου αὐτοῦ, kraspedou tou himatiou autou) referred to tassels (tzitzit) Jewish men wore per Numbers 15:38-39. These had become focus of faith, though Jesus' person was the source. Ancient marketplaces (agoras) were public spaces where sick could be placed for visibility. The mass healings' public nature created numerous witnesses, making later denial difficult. Early church saw this as fulfillment of Isaiah 53:5: 'by his stripes we are healed.'
Reflection
- What does this verse teach about Christ's nature and work?
- How should this truth shape our daily discipleship?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Mark 3:10, Matthew 9:20, Luke 6:19, Acts 5:15