Mark 7:29
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Mark 7:29
29 And he said unto her, For this saying go thy way; the devil is gone out of thy daughter.
Chapter Context
Mark 7 is a action-oriented gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of covenant, holiness, faith. 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 21-37: 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 7:29
29 And he said unto her, For this saying go thy way; the devil is gone out of thy daughter.
Analysis
For this saying go thy way; the devil is gone out—Jesus commends the Syrophoenician woman's persistent faith. Her humble response demonstrated both faith and theological insight, acknowledging Israel's priority while trusting God's abundance extends beyond Jewish boundaries. The Greek perfect tense indicates completed, permanent demon expulsion. Remarkably, Jesus heals at a distance without physical presence—demonstrating sovereign authority transcending proximity. This account breaks multiple boundaries: geographical (Gentile territory), ethnic (Phoenician), gender (woman initiating dialogue), religious (pagan). Yet Jesus responds to persistent faith wherever found. Her boldness teaches that true faith pursues Christ relentlessly despite seeming rejection.
Historical Context
This miracle occurred in Tyre and Sidon (v.24), Gentile cities in Phoenicia. Jesus's ministry to this Gentile woman prefigures the gospel extending to all nations. Her persistence despite apparent rejection demonstrates extraordinary faith. In first-century Judaism, 'dogs' was a common epithet for Gentiles, yet she accepts this while appealing to God's lavish grace—even crumbs from His table exceed earthly kingdoms' feasts.
Reflection
- How does this woman's persistent faith despite rejection challenge your approach to prayer?
- What does Jesus healing at a distance reveal about His authority transcending boundaries?
- How does this account prepare for the gospel going to all nations?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 66:2, Matthew 5:3