St. Mark's Gospel is the shortest and, in terms of structure, the simplest of the three 'Synoptic' Gospels. The view that it was the first of the Synoptics, and that the Gospels of Matthew and Luke made use of Mark's narrative passages which they then supplemented with the sayings of Jesus contained in a supposed independent source, called 'Q', is now considered unduly simplistic. In truth, all three Synoptic Gospels must have had, perhaps, three stages of writing, and the interrelationship between these stages of the three evangelists explains the complexity of the pattern of similarity between the three final versions. So, while the original version of Mark may well have drawn on the primitive Matthaean Gospel, which was probably written in Aramaic, the intermediate form of Mark's Gospel was used by the editors of Matthew and Luke in their canonical forms. Then, the final version of Mark was informed by Mathew and Luke, together, perhaps, with some influence of the writings of Paul. As for the date of Mark's Gospel, it is possible that the first version was written down before the destruction of Jerusalem by the Romans in 70 A.D., but the intermediate and final versions probably occurred after that date, i.e. between 70 and 90 A.D. However, as with all four gospels, its date is a matter of considerable controversy, and, indeed, there is no clear evidence in it of Jerusalem's destruction. The author of Mark's Gospel is effectively unknown. Christian tradition has it that it was John Mark, the cousin of Barnabas, whom together with his colleague Paul, he assisted in their apostolic work, before allegedly acting as Peter's interpreter in Rome. While these traditions are longstanding ones, in reality they are based on very tenuous foundations.
As I have said above, the structure of Mark's Gospel is the simplest of the three Synoptics. It begins with a short prelude (Ch.1.1-13), which includes the preaching of John the Baptist and the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness. Then follows his ministry in his home region of Galilee (Chs. 1.14-7.23); his ministry in regions outside Galilee (Chs. 7.24-10.52); the Jerusalem ministry (Chs. 11.1-13.37), and, finally, the Passion and Resurrection (Chs. 14.1-16.8). This outline of his life and work is probably somewhat artificial and over-simplified: for instance, as is indicated by the Fourth Gospel, it is almost certain that Jesus visited Jerusalem several times in his life before his final, and fatal, visit. Another feature of Mark, in which he differs markedly from the other Synoptics, is the absence of the Christmas stories and, if one assumes that verses 9-20 of Ch.16. were a later addition, of the details of his appearances after his apparent resurrection. To the sceptic, these are the least credible parts of the Gospel stories. Furthermore, Mark is not greatly concerned with the details of Jesus' teaching, and records few of his sayings, such as the Sermon on the Mount. Mark concentrates on his central message: the manifestation of the crucified Jesus, and his saving function.
Mark's Gospel is a pleasure to translate. Although the quality of his Greek is rough, and his grammar is sometimes faulty, his style is fresh and lively. For anyone brought up in the Christian tradition, translating the Gospels inevitably involves one in meeting up with old friends, by which I mean the sayings and parables of Jesus. However, such is one's attachment to the language of the Authorised Version that it is often very difficult to part company with its overpowering phraseology. For instance, in the interests of modernity, I have rendered "Suffer the little children to come unto me," in the Authorised version as "Allow the little children to come to me," but there is no doubt as to which of these two wordings I personally prefer.
As many will be aware, Mark's Gospel, in company with the other Gospels, and much of the New Testament, contains allusions to the Old Testament (OT), and indeed the extent to which Jesus actually fulfilled OT prophecies and how far his history was rewritten in order to meet expectations of the Messiah is a constant source of argument between believers and sceptics. In the translation below I have put into italics verses where there is a clear allusion to a passage from the OT and have then indicated in brackets what that passage is; where the allusion involves an actual quotation I have also put that into bold type.
Finally, I should draw the reader's attention to the two 'Endings' which I have appended to this translation. Although the 'Longer Ending,' Ch. 16. vv. 9-20, is included in the canonically accepted body of inspired scripture, and hence is included in the Authorised Version, these verses are written in a different style, almost certainly by a different writer, and most modern editions of the Bible now exclude them. They were probably added by a Christian editor who felt that the ending at v. 8 was somewhat abrupt and gave insufficient information about the resurrection of Jesus. The 'Shorter Ending' addresses the problem of the abrupt ending in a different way by emphasising the need to proclaim the Gospel to all nations, something which is rarely emphasised in the Synoptics, and, when it is, is usually the result of subsequent interpolation.
I. THE PRELUDE TO THE PUBLIC MINISTRY OF JESUS (Ch. 1.1-13).
CHAPTER 1.
The proclamation of John the Baptist (vv. 1-8).
1) The beginning of the Gospel (i.e. the Good News) of Jesus Christ. 2) As it has been written in (the book of) the prophet Isaiah, "Behold, I am sending forth my messenger before your face, who will prepare your way (vid. Exodus 23.20; Malachi 3.1) 3) The voice of (one) crying in the wilderness: 'Make ready the way of the Lord! Make his paths straight!' " (vid. Isaiah 40.3) 4) John the Baptiser was in the wilderness, preaching the the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. 5) And all the country of Judea and all the people of Jerusalem went out to him, and were baptised by him in the River Jordan, confessing their sins. 6) Now John was clothed with camel's hair, and with a leather girdle around his loins, and he was eating locusts and wild honey. 7) And he preached, saying, "After me there comes one (who is) stronger than I, (compared) with whom I am not fit to stoop down and untie the laces of his sandals; 8) I baptised you with water, but he will baptise you with the holy spirit."
The baptism of Jesus (vv. 9-11).
9) Now it happened in those days that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptised by John in the Jordan. 10) And, immediately, on coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens parting and the spirit descending on him like a dove; 11) and a voice came down from the heavens, (saying) "You are my beloved son, (and) in you I am well pleased."
Jesus is tempted in the wilderness (vv. 12-13).
12) And immediately the spirit drove him into the wilderness. 13) And he was in the wilderness for forty days, being tempted by Satan, and he was with the wild beasts, and the angels ministered unto him.
II. JESUS' GALILEAN MINISTRY (Ch. 1.14 - 7.23).
Jesus begins preaching in Galilee (vv. 14-15).
14) Now, after the arrest of John, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the good news of God, 15) and saying, "The appointed time has been fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand! Repent and believe in the good news."
The first four disciples are called (vv. 16-20).
16) While passing along by the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew, the brother of Simon, casting their nets around in the sea, for they were fishermen. 17) Then Jesus said to them, "Come, follow after me, and I shall make you become fishers of men." 18) And, at once, they gave up their nets and followed him. 19) Then, going on a little further, he saw James, the son of Zebedee, and John, his brother, while they were in their boat, mending the nets, 20) and, immediately, he called them. And leaving their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men, they went after him.
Jesus teaches in Capernaum, and expels an unclean spirit (vv. 21-28).
21) And they went into Capernaum. And, on the Sabbath, he immediately entered the synagogue and began to preach. 22) And they were astounded at his teaching, for he was teaching them as (one) having authority and not like the scribes. 23) And, at that time, there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit, and he cried out, 24) saying, "What (have) we (to do) with you, Jesus, (you) Nazarene? Have you come to destroy us? I know you who you are, the Holy (One) of God!" 25) But Jesus rebuked him, saying, "Be quiet, and come out of him!" 26) And the unclean spirit, after convulsing him and crying out with a loud voice, came out of him. 27) And they were all amazed, so that they began debating among themselves, saying, "What is this? (It is) a new teaching: (for) with authority he even commands the unclean spirits and they obey him." 28) And his reputation at once spread everywhere into all the region around Galilee.
The cure of Simon's mother-in-law (vv. 29-31).
29) And, immediately, they went out of the synagogue, and, together with James and John, they came to the house of Simon and Andrew. 30) Now, Simon's mother-in-law was lying sick with a fever, and at once they told him about her. 31) And coming to (her), and, taking (her) by the hand, he raised her up; and the fever left her, and she began to minister unto them.
Jesus heals many in Capernaum (vv. 32-34).
32) When evening had come and the sun had set, they brought to him all who were sick and those (who were) possessed by demons; 33) and the whole city was gathered together at the door. 34) And he healed many who were sick with various diseases and cast out many demons, but he would not permit the demons to speak, because they knew he was the Christ.
Jesus prays in a lonely place, and then travels through Galilee, preaching and expelling demons (vv. 35-39).
35) Then, early in the morning, while it was (still) very dark, he arose and went out, and he departed to a lonely place, and there he prayed. 36) But Simon and those (who were) with him, followed him closely, 37) and they found him and told him: "Everyone is looking for you." 38) Then he said to them, "Let us go elsewhere, into the market-towns, in order that I may preach there also, for (it was) for this (reason that) I went out." 39) And he went throughout the whole of Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and expelling demons.
A leper is cured by Jesus (vv. 40-45).
40) There also came to him a leper, entreating him and saying to him on bended knee, "If you want to, you can make me clean. 41) Then, full of compassion, he stretched out his hand and touched (him), and said to him, "I do want to. Be made clean!" 42) And, immediately, the leprosy left him and he was cleansed. 43) And, after giving him strict orders, he sent him away at once, 44) and said to him, "See that you say nothing to anyone, but go, show yourself to the priest, and offer for your cleansing (the things) which Moses prescribed as a testimony to them." 45) But he went out and began to proclaim the story many times and to spread (it) abroad, so that he could no longer enter a city openly, but remained outside in lonely places; and they came to him from everywhere.
CHAPTER 2.
The healing of a paralytic (vv. 1-12).
1) Now, when, after some days, he entered Capernaum again, it was heard that he was in a house; 2) and many were gathered together, so that there was no more room, not even in the (area) near the door, and he began to speak the word to them. 3) And (people) came, bringing to him a paralytic carried by four (men). 4) But, being unable to bring him right up to Jesus on account of the crowd, they removed the roof (above) where he was, and, having torn out (an opening), they lowered the mattress on which the paralytic was lying. 5) And, when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, "Child, your sins are forgiven." 6) Now there were certain of the scribes sitting there and considering in their minds, 7) "Why does this (man) speak like that? He is blaspheming. Who can forgive sins but God alone?" 8) But Jesus, as soon as having realised that they were reasoning among themselves in this way, said to them, "Why are you reasoning these (things) in your minds? Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Arise and take up your bed and walk'? But in order that you may know that the Son of man has authority on earth to forgive sins," he said to the paralytic, "I say to you, 'Arise and take up your bed, and go to your house.' " 12) Then, he arose, and immediately took up his bed and went out in front of all (of them), so that they were all amazed, and they glorified God, saying, "We never saw such a thing as this."
The calling of Levi (vv. 13-14).
13) And he went out again beside the sea; and all the crowd kept coming to him, and he taught them. 14) And, as he passed by, he saw Levi, the (son) of Alphaeus, sitting at the custom-house, and he said to him, "Follow me." And he arose and followed him.
Eating with sinners (vv. 15-17).
15) And it happened that he was reclining (at table) in his house, and many publicans (i.e. tax-collectors) and sinners sat down with Jesus and his disciples, for there were many (of them) and they began to follow him. 16) But the scribes of the Pharisees, when they saw that he was eating with sinners and publicans, said to his disciples, "Is he (really) eating with these publicans and sinners?" 17) When Jesus heard (this), he said to them, "Those who are healthy have no need for a doctor, but those who are sick (do); I came not to call the righteous but sinners (to repentance)."
A question about fasting (vv. 18-22).
18) Now, John's disciples and the Pharisees were fasting. So, they came and said to him, "Why are John's disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees fasting, but your disciples do not fast?" 19) Jesus said to them, "The groomsmen cannot fast, while the bridegroom is with them (can they)? As long as they have the bridegroom with them they cannot fast; 20) but the time will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then, on that day, they will fast. 21) No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on to an old garment; otherwise, the patch takes (the strength) from it, the new (cloth) from the old, and the tear becomes worse. 22) No one puts new wine into old skins; otherwise, the wine will burst the skins; but (people put) new wine into fresh skins."
Plucking corn on the Sabbath (vv. 23-28).
23) Now it happened that he was going through the corn fields on the Sabbath (day), and his disciples started plucking the ears of corn as they made their way. 24) And the Pharisees said to him, "Why are they doing what is not lawful on the Sabbath?" 25) And he said to them, "Have you never read what David did when he had need and was hungry, he and his followers? 26) How he entered into the house of God, when Abiathar (was) high priest, and ate the bread of the presentation, which it is not lawful (for anybody) except the priests to eat, and he also gave (it) to those who were with him?" And he went on to say to them, "The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. Therefore, the Son of man is Lord, even of the Sabbath."
CHAPTER 3.
The healing of the man with a withered hand (vv. 1-6).
1) And he entered into the synagogue again, and there there was a man with a withered hand; 2) and they were watching him closely, (to see) whether he would heal him on the Sabbath, in order that they might accuse him. 3) Then, he said to the man with the withered hand, "Arise and (come) into our midst. 4) And he said to them, "Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do harm, to save a life or to end (one)?" They, however, were silent. 5) And, after looking around at them with indignation, as he was aggrieved at the hardening of their hearts, he said to the man, "Stretch out your hand;" then, he stretched (it) out, and his hand was restored (to health). 6) Then, the Pharisees went out, and, immediately, hatched a plot with the Herodians to destroy him.
The great multitude on the shore (vv. 7-12).
7) But Jesus, with his disciples, withdrew to the sea; and a great multitude from Galilee and from Judea followed (him), 8) even from Jerusalem, and from Idumea, and from across the Jordan, and around Tyre and Sidon. A great multitude, hearing the many things which he was doing, came to him. 9) And he told his disciples that a little boat should stand ready in his service, because of the crowd, in order that they might not press upon him; 10) for he had cured many (people), with the result that all those who had grievous diseases fell upon him, in order that they might touch him. 11) And the unclean spirits, whenever they beheld him, fell down before him and cried out, saying, "You are the Son of God." 12) And he sternly warned them not to make known (who) he (was).
The appointment of the Twelve Apostles (vv. 13-19).
13) And he went up into a mountain, and summoned to himself (those) whom he wanted, and they went to him. 14) And he appointed twelve (men), whom he also named 'apostles', in order that they might be with him, and in order that he might send them out to preach 15) and to have authority to cast out demons; 16) And (of the group of) twelve (whom) he appointed, he laid the name 'Peter' (i.e. the Rock) upon Simon, 17) and (he appointed) James, the (son) of Zebedee and John, the brother of James, and he gave them the name 'Boanerges', which means 'Sons of Thunder', 18) and (he appointed) Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James, the (son) of Alphaeus, and Thaddeus, and Simon the Cananaean (i.e. the Zealot), 19) and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him.
Jesus' family are concerned about him (vv. 20-21).
20) And he came into a house; and the crowd gathered again, so that they were not able even to eat bread. 21) But, when his relatives heard about (it), they went out to lay hold of him, for they said that he was out of his mind.
Allegations of the scribes (vv. 22-30).
22) Also, the scribes that came down from Jerusalem said, "He is possessed by Beelzebub, and he is expelling demons by means of the ruler of the demons." 23) So, after calling them to (him), he said to them in parables, "How can Satan cast out Satan? 24) If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand; 25) and, if a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand; 26) so, if Satan has risen up against himself and is divided, he cannot stand, and there is an end (of him). 27) But no one entering into the house of a strong (man) can plunder his property, unless he has bound the strong (man) first, and then he will plunder his house. 28) Assuredly, I say to you that all (things) will be forgiven the sons of men, whatever sins and blasphemies they may have blasphemously committed; 29) but whoever may blaspheme against the Holy Spirit has no forgiveness ever, but is guilty of everlasting sin." 30) (This was) because they were saying ,"He has an unclean spirit."
The true kinsmen of Jesus (vv. 31-35).
31) Now, his mother and his brothers came, and, as they were standing outside, they sent (a message) to him, calling him. 32) And a crowd (of people) were sitting around him, and they said to him, "Behold, your mother and your brothers are outside looking for you!" 33) But, in answer, he said to them, "Who are my mother and my brothers?" And, looking around at those (who were) sitting in a circle around him, he said, "Behold, my mother and my brothers; 35) (for) whoever does the will of God, this (person) is my brother and sister and mother!"
CHAPTER 4.
The parable of the sower (vv. 1-9).
1) And again he started to teach beside the sea. And a very great crowd was gathered unto him, so that he got into a boat on the sea, and sat down (in it), and all the crowd were on the land by the sea. 2) And he taught (them) many (things) in parables, and told them in his teaching, 3) "Listen. Behold, the sower went forth to sow. 4) And it happened in (the course of) the sowing that some (seed) fell beside the road, and the birds came and devoured it. 5) And some fell on stony ground, where there was not much earth, and immediately it sprang up, because it had no depth of soil; 6) and, when the sun rose, it was scorched, and, because it had no root, it withered away. 7) And some fell into the thorns, and the thorns came up and choked it, and it yielded no fruit. 8) But other (seeds) fell into the fine soil and yielded fruit which grew up and increased, and they bore (fruit) thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold. 9) And he added, "(He) who has ears to hear, let him hear!"
Why Jesus spoke in parables (vv. 10-12).
10) Now, when he was alone, those (who were) around him together with the twelve began to ask him about the parables. 11) Then, he said to them, "To you has been given the mystery of the kingdom of God; but to those (who are) outside all things are done in parables, 12) so that Seeing they may see but not perceive, and hearing they may hear but not understand, lest at any time they should turn back and (their sins) should be forgiven them (cf. Isaiah 6.9-10)."
The parable of the sower explained (vv. 13-20).
13) And he said to them, "You do not know this parable, so how will you understand all the (other) parables? 14) The sower sows the word. 15) These are the ones beside the road where the word is sown, but, as soon as they have heard (it), Satan comes and takes away the word which has been sown in them. 16) And likewise these are the ones sown on the stony ground, who, as soon as they have heard the word, receive it with joy; yet they have no root in themselves, but endure only for a while, (and) then, when oppression or persecution arises on account of the word, they are made to stumble at once. 18) And others there are, who are sown among the thorns: these are the ones who have heard the word, 19) but the cares of this world and the snare of riches and the desire for other things enter in and choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful. 20) Then, there are those who were sown on the good ground, such as hear the word and welcome (it), and they bear fruit thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold."
The light under a bushel (vv. 21-23).
And he went on to say to them, "A lamp is not brought to be placed under a bushel (i.e. a measuring basket) or under the bed, (is it)? but in order to be put on a lamp-stand, (is it) not? 22) For there is no(thing) hidden except in order that it be exposed, nor has (anything) become carefully concealed but that it should come to light. 23) If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear!"
The measure you use (vv. 24-25).
24) And he said to them, "Take heed of what you hear. With what measure you measure, it will be measured unto you, and (more) will be added to you. 25) For (he) who has, (more) shall be given to him; and (he) who has not, even (that) which he has will be taken away from him.
The parable of the seed growing by itself (vv. 26-29).
26) And he said, "The kingdom of God is just as when a man casts seed on the ground, 27) and he sleeps and gets up night and day, and the seed should sprout and grow tall, how he does not know. 28) The earth bears fruit by itself, first the blade of grass, then the ear of corn, then the full grain in the ear. 29) But, as soon as the fruit permits (it), he brings out the sickle, because the harvest-time has come."
The parable of the mustard seed (vv. 30-32).
30) And he went on to say, "In what way are we to liken the kingdom of God, or with what parable shall we illustrate it? 31) (It's) like a grain of mustard, which at the time when it was sown in the ground was the smallest of all the seeds which (are) upon the earth - 32) but, when it has been sown, it grows up and becomes greater than all the (other) herbs, and produces great branches so that all the birds of the air can find lodging under its shadow.
The use of parables (vv. 33-34).
33) So, with many such parables he spoke the word to them, inasmuch as they could hear (it); 34) apart from parables he did not speak to them, but privately to his own disciples he explained everything.
The calming of the storm (vv. 35-41).
35) And on that day, when evening had come, he said to them, "Let us go over to the other side." 36) And leaving the crowd behind, they took him with them just as he was in the boat, and there were other boats with him. 37) And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves kept dashing into the boat, so that the boat was already swamped. 38) And he himself was in the stern, sleeping on a pillow; and they woke him and said to him, "Teacher, don't you care that we are about to perish? 39) Then, he arose and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, "Hush! Be quiet!" And the wind abated and there was a great calm. 40) And he said to them, "Why are you afraid? Don't you yet have any faith?" 41) But they felt a great fear, and said to one another, "Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?"
CHAPTER 5.
Jesus meets the Gerasene demoniac (vv. 1-10).
1) And they came to the other side of the sea into the country of the Gerasenes. 2) And, as soon as he got out of the boat, a man with an unclean spirit (coming) from the memorial tombs met him. 3) He had his dwelling-place among the tombs, and up until that time no one had been able to bind him, even with a chain, 4) because he had often been bound with fetters and chains, but the chains had been torn asunder and the fetters had been smashed by him, and no one had the strength to subdue him; 5) and all night and (all) day he was among the tombs and in the mountains, crying out and cutting himself with stones. 6) And seeing Jesus from afar, he ran and bowed down to him, 7) and, crying out with a loud voice, he said, "What (have) I (to do) with you, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I adjure you by God that you do not torment me." 8) For he had been telling it, "Come out of the man, you unclean spirit." 9) And he asked him, "What (is) your name?" And he said to him, "My name (is) Legion, because we are many;" 10) And he entreated him many times not to send them out of the country.
The healing of the Gerasene demoniac; the unclean spirits enter a herd of swine (vv. 11-17).
11) Now, a great herd of swine was there feeding on the mountainside; 12) and they entreated him, saying, "Send us to the swine in order that we may enter into them." 13) And he gave them permission. Then, the unclean spirits came out and entered into the swine, and the herd rushed over the precipice into the sea, about two thousand (of them), and they were drowned in the sea. 14) Then, those who were tending them fled, and reported (it) in the city and in the countryside; and (people) came to see what it was that had happened. 15) So, they came to Jesus, and beheld the (man) who was possessed by demons sitting clothed and being of sound mind, he who had had the legion, and they were afraid. 16) And those who had seen (it) described to them how it had happened to the (man) who was possessed by demons, and about the swine. 17) And they started to entreat him to depart from their district.
Jesus' fame spreads across the Decapolis (vv. 18-20).
18) Now, as he was getting into the boat, the (man) who had been possessed by demons begged him that he might be with him. 19) He did not allow him (to do that), but said to him, "Go to your home (and) to your relatives and tell them all the things which the Lord has done for you, and the mercy he showed you." 20) And he departed and began to proclaim in the Decapolis all the things which Jesus had done for him, and everyone marvelled.
Jaïrus' daughter (vv. 21-24).
21) Now, after Jesus had crossed back again in the boat to the other side, a great crowd came together around him, and he was beside the sea. 22) Then, one of the presidents of the synagogue, Jaïrus by name, came and, seeing him, fell at his feet, 23) and entreated him many times, saying, "My little daughter is on the point of death. Would you please come and lay your hands upon her, so that she may be saved and live." 24) So, he went with him. And a great crowd was following him and together were pressing upon him.
Cure of the woman with a haemorrhage (vv. 25-34).
25) Now, there was a certain woman who had been subject to a flow of blood (i.e. a haemorrhage) for twelve years, 26) and who had suffered many things at the hands of many physicians and had spent all her resources and had not benefited in any way, but rather had got into a worse (state). 27) When she heard the (reports) about Jesus, she came right up behind (him) in the crowd and touched his cloak; 28) for she said, "If I can just touch his clothes, I shall be restored to health. 29) And at once the flow of her blood was dried up, and she sensed in her body that she was healed of her affliction. 30) And, immediately, Jesus, perceiving in himself that the power had gone out of him, turned about in the crowd and said, "Who touched my clothing?" 31) And his disciples said to him, "You see the crowd pressing in upon you, and (still) you say, "Who touched me?" 32) And he was looking around to see the (woman) who had done this. 33) But the woman, frightened and trembling, (but) knowing what had happened to her, came and fell down before him and told him the complete truth. 34) And he said to her, "Daughter, your faith has made you whole; go in peace, and be cured of your disease."
Jaïrus' daughter raised to life (vv. 35-43).
35) While he was still speaking, (some men) came from the synagogue president's house, saying, "Your daughter is dead; why bother the teacher any longer?" 36) But Jesus, overhearing the message being spoken, said to the president of the synagogue, "Fear not, only have faith!" 37) And he allowed no one to follow along with him except Peter and James and John, the brother of James. 38) So, they came to the synagogue president's house, and he beheld the noisy confusion and (people) weeping and wailing greatly, 39) and, when he had gone in, he said to them, "Why are you making such a commotion and weeping? The child is not dead but is sleeping." 40) And they began to laugh scornfully at him. But he, having expelled (them) all, took along the child's father and mother and his companions, and went in to where the child was; 41) Then, taking the hand of the child, he said to her, "Talitha cumi," which, when translated, means, "Young lady, to you I say 'Get up!' " 42) And at once the little girl arose and began to walk up and down, for she was twelve years (old). And immediately they were beside themselves with great ecstasy. 43) And he enjoined them strictly that no one should know of this, and he told (them) that (something) should be given to her to eat.
CHAPTER 6.
The rejection of Jesus at Nazareth (vv. 1-6).
1) And he went out from there and came into his native country, and his disciples followed him. 2) When the Sabbath had come, he began to teach in the synagogue, and many of those hearing (him) were amazed, saying, "From where did this (man) get these (ideas), and why has this wisdom and such powerful works come about through his hands? 3) Isn't this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon, and his sisters are here with us, are they not? And they took offence at him. 4) And Jesus said to them, "A prophet is not without honour, except in his own country and among his own relatives and in his own house. 5) And he could not do any powerful work there, except that he laid his hands on a few sick (people) and cured (them); 6) and he marvelled at their lack of faith.
And he went about the villages in a circle teaching.
The mission of the Twelve (vv. 7-13).
7) And he summoned the Twelve, and began to send them out two by two, and he gave them authority over the unclean spirits, 8) and he instructed them to carry nothing on the journey except a staff only, no bread, no knapsack, no copper in their belts, 9) but to put on sandals, and not to wear two tunics. 10) He also said to them, "Wherever you enter into a home, stay there until you depart from that place. 11) And whatever place does not receive you or hear you, when you depart from there, shake off the dirt (that is) under your feet as a testimony against them." 12) And they went out and preached in order that (people) might repent, 13) and they expelled many demons and anointed with oil many who were sick , and healed (them).
Herod and Jesus (vv. 14-16).
14) Now, King Herod heard about (him), for his name had become well-known, and (people) were saying, "John the Baptiser has been raised from the dead, and for this (reason) these powers are at work in him;" 15) others were saying, "It is Elijah;" still others were saying that it was a prophet, like one of the prophets. 16) But, when Herod heard (it), he said, "The John whom I beheaded, he has been raised up."
The arrest of John the Baptist (vv. 17-20).
17) For Herod himself had sent out (men) to arrest John, and had bound him in prison, for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, because he had married her. 18) For John had said to Herod, "It is not lawful for you to have your brother's wife." 19) And Herodias was nursing a grudge against him, and was wanting to kill him, but could not (do so). 20) For Herod was afraid of John, knowing him (to be) a righteous and a holy man, and was keeping him safe; and, after hearing him, he was greatly at a loss, but continued to hear him gladly.
John the Baptist is beheaded (vv. 21-29).
21) But a convenient day came along, when Herod made a dinner on his birthday for his top-ranking men and his military commanders and the chief men of Galilee, 22) and, when the daughter of Herodias (i.e. Salome) came in there and danced, she gave pleasure to Herod and those reclining with (him). And the king said to the young lady, "Ask me for whatever you wish, and I will give (it) to you; 23) and he swore to her, "Whatever you might ask me for, I will give (it) to you, even up to half of my kingdom." 24) Then, she went out and said to her mother, "What shall I ask for?" And she said, "The head of John the Baptiser." 25) And she went in immediately to the king in haste and made her request, saying, "I want you to give me right away the head of John the Baptist on a platter." 26) Although he was deeply grieved, the king did not wish to refuse her, on account of his oaths and those reclining (at his table); 27) so, the king immediately dispatched an executioner and commanded (him) to bring his head. And he went off and beheaded him in the prison, 28) and brought his head on a platter and gave it to the girl, and the girl gave it to her mother. 29) And, when his disciples heard (this), they came and took up his body and laid it in a tomb.
Jesus sends the apostles to a deserted place to rest (vv. 30-34).
30) And the apostles came to Jesus together, and reported to him everything that they had done and that they had taught. 31) And he said to them, "You yourselves go by yourselves to some deserted spot and rest up for a while." For there were many coming and going, and they did not have the opportunity to eat. 32) Then, they went off in the boat by themselves to a deserted spot. 33) But (people) saw them going and many got to know (about it), and ran there on foot from every city and got ahead of them. 34) And, when he got out, he saw a great crowd (of people), and he was moved with compassion for them because they were like sheep that did not have a shepherd, and he began to teach them many (things).
The feeding of the five thousand (vv. 35-44).
35) And, when the hour was already growing late, his disciples came to him and said, "This place is isolated, and the hour (is) already late; 36) Send them away, in order that they may go off into the neighbouring countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat." 37) But he said to them in answer, "You give them (something) to eat." And they said to him, "Shall we go and buy loaves (worth) two hundred denarii and give them (something) to eat?" 38) He said to them, "How many loaves do you have? Go (and) see!" And, when they knew, they said, "Five, and two fishes." 39) And he instructed them that they should all sit down in groups on the green grass. 40) And they sat down in groups of a hundred and of fifty. 41) Then, he took the five loaves and the two fishes, and, looking up to heaven, he blessed, and then broke, the loaves, and gave (them) to his disciples to set before them, and he divided the two fishes among (them) all. 42) And they all ate and were satisfied. 43) And they took up fragments that filled twelve baskets aside from the fishes. 44) And those who ate the loaves were five thousand.
Walking on the water (vv. 45-52).
45) And he compelled his disciples to board the boat at once and go on ahead to the other side near Bethsaida, while he himself dismissed the crowd. 46) And, after he had taken leave of them, he went up into the mountain to pray. 47) And, after evening had come, the boat was in the midst of the sea, and he (was) alone on the land. 48) And, seeing them hard-pressed in their rowing, for the wind was (blowing) against them, about the fourth watch of the night he came to them walking on the sea; and he was ready to go past them. 49) But they, when they saw him walking on the sea, thought that it was a ghost and cried out, 50) for they all saw him and were troubled. But he immediately spoke with them, and said to them, "Take courage, it is I, do not be afraid!" 51) And he got into the boat with them, and the wind abated. And they were very much amazed among themselves, 52) for they had not understood (the meaning) of the loaves, but their minds were closed.
The feeding of the four thousand (vv. 1-9).
1) In those days, when there was again a large crowd and they had nothing to eat, he summoned the disciples and said to them, "I am feeling compassion for the crowd, because they have already remained near me for three days and have nothing to eat; and, if I should send them off to their home, they will pass out on the way; and some of them have come from afar." 4) And his disciples answered him, "How can anyone feed these (people) with bread here in such a deserted spot?" 5) Then, he asked them, "How many loaves do you have?" And they said, "Seven." 6) Then, he commanded he crowd to sit down on the ground; and, taking the seven loaves, he gave thanks, and broke (them) and gave (them) to his disciples to serve, and they served (them) to the crowd. 7) And they had a few small fishes also; and he blessed them, and told (them) to serve these too. 8) So, they ate and were filled, and they took up seven large baskets of fragments that were left over. 9) And there were around four thousand (people). Then, he sent them away.
The Pharisees demand a sign (vv. 10-13).
10) Immediately, he boarded the boat with his disciples, and came to the region of Dalmanutha. 11) Then, the Pharisees came out and began to dispute with him, seeking from him a sign from heaven and putting him to the test. 12) So, sighing deeply in his spirit, he said, "Why does this generation seek a sign? Most assuredly I say, no sign shall be given to this generation." 13) Then, he left them, and embarking once more, he went off to the other side.
The leaven of the Pharisees and of Herod (vv. 14-21).
14) And they forgot to take any bread, and they had no(thing) with them in the boat except one loaf. 15) And he gave them express orders, saying, "Keep your eyes open, (and) look for the leaven (i.e. yeast) of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod." 16) And they were arguing with one another, because they had no bread. 17) Noting (this), he said to them, "Why are you arguing because you have no bread? Do you not yet perceive, or understand? Do you (still) have closed minds? 18) Though you have eyes, you do not see, (do you)? Though you have ears, you do not hear, (do you)? And don't you remember, 19) when I broke the five loaves for the five thousand (men), how many baskets full of fragments you took up?" They told him, "Twelve." 20) "When (I broke) seven (loaves) for the four thousand (men), how many hampers full of fragments did you take up?" And they told him, "Seven." 21) And he said to them, "You still don't understand, (do you)?"
The healing of a blind man at Bethsaida (vv. 22-26).
22) Now they came to Bethsaida, and they brought him a blind (man) and begged him to touch him. 23) And they took him by the hand and brought him out of the village, and, spitting upon his eyes, he laid his hands upon him and asked him, "Do you see anything?" And he looked up and said, "I see men, for I see (them), like trees, walking about." 25) Then again he laid his hands on his eyes, and he saw clearly, and he was restored and was able to see everything distinctly. 26) Then, he sent him off to his home, saying, "Don't go into the village!"
Peter's profession of faith (vv. 27-30).
27) Now, Jesus and his disciples went out into the villages of Caesarea Philippi; and on the way he began to ask his disciples, saying to them, "Whom do men say that I am?" 28) Then, they told him, saying, "John the Baptist, and others Elijah, and still others one of the prophets." 29) So, he asked them, "But whom do you say that I am?" In reply, Peter said to him, "You are the Christ." 30) Then, he warned them not to tell anyone about him.
Jesus' death foretold (vv. 31-33).
31) And he began to teach them that the Son of man must undergo much suffering, and be rejected by the elders and the chief priests and the scribes, and be killed, and rise again after three days. 32) He spoke the message openly. And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. 33) But he, turning around and seeing his disciples, rebuked Peter and said, "Get behind me, Satan, for you have in mind not the things of God but the things of men."
The cost of true discipleship (vv. 34-38, Ch. 9. v.1).
34) And he summoned the crowd together with his disciples, and said to them, "If anyone wishes to come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. 35) For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, and whoever will lose his life for my sake and (for the sake) of the Gospel will save it. 36) For what does it benefit a man to gain the whole world, and forfeit his soul? 37) For what (thing) will a man give in exchange for his soul? 38) For whoever should be ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of man will also be ashamed of him, when he comes with the holy angels in the glory of his Father."
CHAPTER 9.
1) And he went on to say to them, "Truly I tell you that there are some of those standing here who will not taste death at all until they see the kingdom of God having come in power."
The Transfiguration of Jesus (vv. 2-8).
2) And after six days, Jesus took along (with him) Peter and James and John, and he brought them on to a high mountain privately by themselves. And he was transfigured in front of them, 3) and his clothing became glistening white, exceedingly so, such as no launderer on earth could whiten (them). 4) Then, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, and they were talking with Jesus. 5) And, in answer, Peter said to Jesus, "Rabbi, it is good for us to be here; so let us make three tents, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah." 6) In fact, he did not know how he should reply, for they had become afraid. 7) And a cloud came, casting its shadow upon them, and a voice came out of the cloud, (saying), "This is my beloved son, listen to him!" 8) Then, suddenly, when they looked around, they saw no one with them any longer, except Jesus only.
The question of Elijah (vv. 9-13).
9) And, as they were coming down from the mountain, he gave them strict orders that they should tell no one what (things) they had seen, until after the Son of man had risen from the dead. 10) They kept this instruction, but debated among themselves what the rising from the dead should mean. 11) And they began to question him, saying, "Why do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?" 12) Then, he said to them, "Indeed, Elijah does come first, and restores everything, but how is it written about the Son of man that he should undergo much suffering and be treated with contempt? 13) But I tell you that Elijah has, in fact, come, and they did to him all that they wanted (to do), according as it is written about him."
The healing of a boy with an unclean spirit (vv. 14-29).
14) Now, when they came to the (other) disciples, they saw a large crowd around them, and scribes arguing with them. 15) But as soon as the whole crowd saw him, they were utterly amazed and ran to (him) and greeted him. 16) And he asked them, "Why are you arguing with them?" 17) Then, one of the crowd answered him, "Teacher, I brought my son to you, as he has a mute spirit; 18) and, whenever it seizes him, it dashes him to the ground, and he foams (at the mouth) and gnashes his teeth, and he becomes paralysed; and I told your disciples to expel it, but they were unable (to do so)." 19) In reply, he said to them, "O faithless generation, how long shall I be with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring him to me !" 20) And they brought him to him. And, when he saw him, the spirit immediately convulsed him, and, falling on the ground, he rolled around, foaming (at the mouth). 21) And he asked his father, "How long is it that this has been happening to him?" And he said, "From childhood. 22) And many times it has cast him both into fire and into water, in order to destroy him; but, if you can (do) anything, have compassion on us and help us." 23) Then, Jesus said to him, "That (expression), 'If you can,' (why) all (things) are possible to one who believes." 24) Immediately, the father cried out and said, "I believe, help (me) in my unbelief."
25) When Jesus saw that a crowd was running together towards (him), he rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to it, "(You) dumb and deaf spirit, I command you, come out of him and enter into him no more. 26) Then, after crying out and convulsing greatly, it came out of (him), and he became as though (he were) dead, so that most of them said that he had died. 27) But Jesus took hold of his hand and raised him up, and he arose. 28) And, when he had come into the house, the disciples asked him privately, "Why couldn't we have expelled it?" 29) Then, he said to them, "This kind (of spirit) can come out by no means other than through prayer."
Jesus again foretells his death and resurrection (vv. 30-32).
30) They departed from there, and proceeded through Galilee, but he did not want that anyone should know (that); 31) for he was teaching his disciples and saying to them, "The Son of man is to be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill him, and, when he has been killed, he will rise again after three days." 32) But they did not know the saying, and were afraid to question him.
The disciples argue over who is the greatest (vv. 33-37).
33) And they came to Capernaum. And, when he was in the house, he asked them, "Why were you arguing on the road?" 34) But they kept silent, for they had been arguing among themselves on the way (about) who (was) the greater. 35) So, he sat down and called the Twelve, and said to them, "If any (man) wants to be first, he shall be last of all, and servant of all." 36) Then, he took a little child and set him in the midst of them, and, taking him in his arms, he said to them, 37) "Whoever receives one of these little children in my name, receives me; and whoever receives me, does not receive me, but the (one) who sent me."
Anyone not against us is for us (vv. 38-41).
38) John said to him, "Teacher, we saw someone casting out demons in your name, and we tried to stop him, because he was not accompanying us." 39) But Jesus said, "Do not prevent him, for there is no one who will do a mighty work in my name who will be quickly able to speak ill of me. 40) For (he) who is not against us is for us.
Generosity shown to Christ's disciples (v. 41).
41) For whoever gives you a cup of water in my name because you are Christ's, most assuredly I tell you that he will by no means lose his reward.
Temptations to sin (vv. 42-48).
42) But whoever will cause one of these little (ones) who believe (in me) to stumble, it would be better for him, if a millstone worked by a donkey were hung around his neck, and he were flung into the sea.
43) And, if your hand should cause you to stumble, cut it off; it is better that you go into life maimed than you go with two hands into Gehenna, into the inextinguishable fire. 44) -- 45) And if your foot causes you to stumble, cut it off; it is better that you go into life lame than that with two feet you are pitched into Gehenna. 46) -- 47) And if your eye causes you to stumble, pluck it out; it is better that you go the kingdom of God one-eyed than that with two eyes you are cast into Gehenna, 48) where 'their maggot shall not die nor shall their fire be quenched.' (vid. Isaiah 66.24)
Have salt in yourselves (vv. 49-50).
49) For everyone will be salted with fire. 50) Salt (is) fine; but, if the salt has become flavourless, how will you season it? Have salt in yourselves, and be at peace with one another.
CHAPTER 10.
Jesus' teaching about marriage and divorce (vv. 1-12).
1) Then, he arose from there and went into the territory of Judea and across the Jordan. 2) Now, Pharisees came to (him), and, in order to test him, asked him whether it was lawful for a man to divorce his wife. 3) And, in answer, he said to them, "What did Moses command you?" 4) And they said, "Moses permitted a certificate of abandonment to be written, and (then) a divorce." (vid. Deuteronomy 24.3) 5) But Jesus said to them, "He wrote you this commandment out of regard for your hardheartedness; 6) but from the beginning of creation he made them male and female (vid. Genesis 1.27); 7) on this account a man will leave his father and mother [and will be joined to his wife], 8) and the two will become one flesh, (vid. Genesis 2.24) so that they are no longer two but one flesh; 9) Therefore, what God has joined together, let no man put asunder!" 10) And (when they were) in the house, the disciples asked him again about this (matter). 11) And he said to them, "Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her, 12) and, if a woman divorces her husband, and marries another, she commits adultery."
Jesus blesses the little children (vv. 13-16).
13) And (people) were bringing him little children, so that he might touch them, but the disciples reprimanded them. 14) Seeing this, Jesus became angry and said to them, "Allow the little children to come to me! Do not stop them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 15) Truly I say to you, whoever does not welcome the kingdom of God like a little child, will by no means enter it." 16) And he took them in his arms and blessed (them), laying his hands upon them.
The rich young man (vv. 17-22).
17) And, as he was going out into the way, one (man) ran up to him, and, falling on his knees, asked him, "Good Teacher, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life? 18) Jesus said to him, "Why do you call me good? No one (is) good, save one, (namely) God. 19) You know the commandments: 'Do not murder,' 'Do not commit adultery,' 'Do not steal,' 'Do not bear false witness' (vid. Exodus 20.13-16; Deuteronomy 5.17-20), 'Do not defraud' (vid. Deuteronomy 24.14), 'Honour your father and mother' (vid. Exodus 20.12; Deuteronomy 5.16)." 20) And he said, "Teacher, I have observed all these (things) from my youth." 21) As he looked at him, Jesus felt love for him, and said to him, "One (thing) you lack: go, sell all that you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me!" 22) But he looked shocked at this remark, and went off grieving, for he was in possession of much property.
The danger of riches (vv. 23-31).
23) And, looking around, Jesus said to his disciples, "How difficult it will be for those with money to enter the kingdom of God!" 24) And the disciples were amazed at his words. But, in response, Jesus again said to them, "Children, how hard it is [for those who trust in riches] to enter the kingdom of God! 25) It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich (man) to enter the kingdom of God." 26) And they were exceedingly astonished and said to him, "Who, then, can be saved?" 27) Looking straight at them, Jesus said, "With men (it is) impossible, but not with God, for with God all (things are) possible (vid. Job 42.2)." 28) Peter began to say to him, "Look, we have left everything and have followed you." 29) Jesus said, "Truly I tell you, there is no one who has left this house, or brother, or sister. or mother, or father, or children, or fields for my sake and for the sake of the gospel, but he will receive a hundred times more now at this time, houses, and, brothers, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and fields with persecutions, and in the age to come life everlasting. 31) But many (who are) first will be last, and the last first."
Jesus foretells his death for the third time (vv. 32-34).
32) Now, they were on the road going up to Jerusalem, and Jesus was walking ahead of them, and they were astonished, and those who followed (him) were afraid. And again he took the Twelve aside, and began to tell them the things which were going to befall him, (saying), "Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of man will be delivered to the chief priests and the scribes, and they will sentence him to death and then deliver him to the Gentiles, 34) and they will mock him, and spit on him, and scourge him, and put (him) to death, and, after three days, he will be brought back to life."
The sons of Zebedee make their request (vv. 35-40).
35) And James and John, the two sons of Zebedee, came up to him, and said to him, "Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we shall ask of you." 36) Then, he said to them, "What do you want me to do for you?" 37) And they said to him, "Grant us that we may sit, one at your right (hand), and one at your left (hand), in your glory. 38) But Jesus said to them, "You don't know what you are asking; are you able to drink the cup which I am drinking, or to be baptised (with) the baptism (with) which I am being baptised?" 39) They said to him, "We are able." Then, Jesus said to them, "The cup which I am drinking you will drink, and (with) the baptism (with) which I am being baptised, you will be baptised. 40) But the seats at my right (hand) or at my left, are not for me to give, but (they belong to those) for whom they have been made ready."
The sacrifice of service (vv. 41-45).
41) When the (other) ten disciples heard (about their request), they began to get angry with James and John. 42) But Jesus called them to (him) and said to them, "You know that those who appear to rule the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great (ones) wield authority over them. 43) It is not so among you; but whoever wants to be great among you shall be your servant, 44) and whoever wants to be first among you shall be slave to all; 45) For even the Son of man came not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life (as) a ransom for all."
The healing of blind Bartimaeus (vv. 46-52).
46) And they came to Jericho. But, as he was leaving Jericho, together with his disciples and a considerable crowd, Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, a blind beggar, was sitting beside the road. 47) When he heard that it was Jesus the Nazarene, he began to cry out and say, "Jesus, son of David, have mercy on me!" 48) Then, many (people) told him sternly that he should be quiet; but he kept on crying out all the more, "Son of David, have mercy on me!" 49) So Jesus stopped, and said, "Call him!" And they called the blind (man), saying to him, "Take courage, get up, he is calling you!" 50) Then, casting off his cloak, he sprang up and came to Jesus. 51) And, answering him, Jesus said, "What do you want me to do for you?" The blind (man) said to him, "That I may recover my sight." 52) Then, Jesus said to him, "Go your way, your faith has made you well." And immediately he regained his sight, and began to follow him on the road.
IV. THE JERUSALEM MINISTRY (Ch. 11.1 - 13.37).
CHAPTER 11.
The colt of an ass is discovered (vv. 1-6).
1) Now, when they draw near to Jerusalem, to Bethphage and Bethany at the Mount of Olives, he sends two of his disciples, 2) and says to them, "Go into the village which (is) opposite to you, and, as soon as you enter it you will find a colt tied, on which no man has yet sat; untie it and bring (it to me). 3) And, if anyone should say to you, 'Why are you doing this,' say, 'The Lord has need of it,' and at once he will send it back here." 4) So, they went off and found a colt tied up at a door outside on the street, and they untie it. 5) But some of those standing there said to them, "What are you doing, untying the colt?" 6) Then, they said to them just as Jesus had said; and they let them go.
Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem (vv. 7-11).
7) Then, they bring the colt to Jesus, and throw their garments upon it, and he sat on it. 8) And many (people) spread their garments on the road, and others (were) cutting branches from the fields. 9) And those who went in front and those who were following cried out, "Hosanna! Blessed (is) he who comes in the name of the Lord! (vid. Psalms 118.25-26) Blessed (is) the coming kingdom of our father David! Hosanna (vid. Psalms 118.25) in the highest!" And he entered the temple in Jerusalem; he looked around at everything, and, as the hour was already late, he went out to Bethany with the Twelve.
The barren fig-tree is cursed (vv. 12-14).
12) Then, on the next day, when they had come out from Bethany with the Twelve. Then, on the next day, when they had come out from Bethany, he felt hungry. 13) And, seeing from afar off a fig-tree that had leaves, he went (to see) if he could perhaps find something on it, but, when he came to it, he found nothing except leaves, for it was not the season for figs. 14) So, in response, he said to it, "May no one ever eat fruit from you any longer." And his disciples heard (it).
The expulsion of the money-changers from the Temple (vv. 15-18).
15) Now they came to Jerusalem. Then, having entered the temple, he began to expel those selling and those buying in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money-changers and the seats of those who sold the doves. 16) And he would not allow anyone to carry a vessel through the temple, 17) and he kept teaching and saying, "Is it not written, 'My house will be called a house of prayer for all the nations' (vid. Isaiah 56.7)? But you have made it a den of robbers (vid. Jeremiah 7.11)." 18) And the chief priests and the scribes heard (it), and began to seek how they might destroy him; for they were afraid of him, for all the crowd was astonished at his teaching.
Lesson from the withered fig-tree (vv. 19-26).
19) And, whenever it was getting late, they would go out of the city. 20) And, as they passed by early in the morning, they saw the fig-tree withered from the roots. 21) And Peter, remembering (it), says to him, "Rabbi, look! the fig-tree that you cursed has withered away." And, in reply, Jesus says to them, "Have faith in God; 23) Truly I say to you that whoever may tell this mountain, 'Be lifted up and thrown into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart that what he says will happen, he will have (it so). 24) Therefore, I tell you, everything that you pray and ask for, believe that you received them, and you will have (them). 25) And, whenever you stand to pray, forgive whatever you have against anyone, so that your Father, who (is) in heaven, may forgive you your trespasses." 26) --
The authority of Jesus is questioned (vv. 27-33).
27) And again they come into Jerusalem. And as Jesus is walking about in the temple, the chief priests and the scribes and the elders come to him, 28) and they said to him, "By what authority do you do these (things)? Or who gave you such authority to do these (things)." 29) Jesus said to them, "I will ask you one question, and, should you answer me, I shall also tell you by what authority I do these (things). 30) The baptism of John, was it from heaven or from men? Answer me!" 31) And they reasoned among themselves, saying, "If we should say, 'From heaven,' he will say, 'Why, then, did you not believe him?' 32) But dare we say, 'From men' ?" - they feared the crowd, for they all held that John had really been a prophet. 33) So, in reply to Jesus' (question), they say, "We do not know." Then Jesus says to them, "Neither am I telling you by what authority I do these (things)."
CHAPTER 12.
The parable of the vineyard and the wicked tenants (vv. 1-12).
1) And he began to speak to them in parables: "A man planted a vineyard, and put a fence around (it), and dug a trough for the wine-press, and built a tower, and he rented it out to tenant farmers and went abroad. 2) Now, at the appointed time, he sent a slave to the farmers to get from the farmers (his share) of the fruits of the vineyard; 3) but they took him and beat (him) and sent (him) away empty-handed. 4) And again he sent another slave to them; and they struck him on the head and insulted (him). 5) And he sent another, and they killed (him), and many others, some of whom they thrashed and others of whom they put to death. 6) He still had one, his beloved son; he sent him to them last, saying, 'They will respect my son.' 7) But those farmers said to one another, 'This is the heir; come, let us kill him and the inheritance will be ours.' 8) Then, they took him and killed him, and threw (him) out of the vineyard. 9) What will the owner of the vineyard do? He will come and destroy the farmers, and will give the vineyard to others. 10) Haven't you ever read this (passage of) scripture, 'The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief corner(-stone); 11) this is the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes'."
12) So, they began seeking (how) to seize him, but they feared the crowd, for they knew that he spoke the parable with them in mind. So, they left him and went away.
Giving Caesar his due (vv. 13-17).
13) And they sent to him some of the Pharisees and of the Herodians in order to entrap him with words. 14) And, on their arrival, they say to him, "Teacher, we know that you are truthful and (that) no one is of particular importance to you, for you do not look upon men's outward appearance, but you teach the way of God in line with truth. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not? 15) Should we pay, or should we not pay?" But he, being aware of their hypocrisy, said to them, "Why are you testing me? Bring me a denarius, so I may see (it)." 16) So, they brought (one). Then, he says to them, "Whose is this image and inscription?" And they said to him, "Caesar's." 17) Jesus said, "Give back to Caesar the (things that are) Caesar's, and to God the (things that are) God's." And they marvelled at him.
A question about the resurrection of the dead (vv. 18-27).
18) Now there come to him some Sadducees, who say there is no resurrection, and they questioned him, saying, 19) "Teacher, Moses wrote to us that, if any man's brother should die and leave a wife behind (him) but leave no child, that his brother should take his wife and raise up offspring for his brother (vid. Genesis 38.8; Deuteronomy 25.5). 20) There were seven brothers; and the first took a wife, but, when he died, he left no offspring; 21) then the second took her and died, leaving no offspring behind (him), and the third likewise; 22) and the seven left no children; last of all the woman died also. 23) In the resurrection, among them whose wife will she be?" For (all) seven had her (as) wife. 24) Jesus said to them, "Do you not err for this (reason), because you do not know the scriptures or the power of God? 25) For when they rise from the dead, they neither marry nor are they given in marriage, but they are like angels in heaven. 26) But about the dead, that they are raised, did you not read in the book of Moses, (in the passage) about the thornbush, how God spoke to him, saying, 'I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob' (vid. Exodus 3.6,15,16). 27) He is God, not of the dead but of the living; you are much mistaken."
The two great commandments (vv. 28-34).
28) Now, one of the scribes who had come forward and heard them disputing, knowing that he had answered them well, asked him, "Which commandment is first of all?" 29) Jesus replied, "The first is 'Hear, (O) Israel, the Lord our God is one Lord, 30) and you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength' (vid. Deuteronomy 6.4-5). (31) The second (is) this, 'You shall love your neighbour as yourself ' (vid. Leviticus 19.18) There is no other commandment greater than these." 32) The scribe said to him, "In truth, teacher, you have spoken well, (to say) that he is one (vid. Deuteronomy 6.4) and (that) there is no other save him (vid. Deuteronomy 4.35; Isaiah 45.21), 33) and (that) to love him with all one's heart, and with all one's understanding, and with all one's strength, and to love one's neighbour as oneself (vid. Deuteronomy 6.5; Joshua 22.5) is (worth) much more than all the whole burnt offerings and sacrifices (one can think of)." 34) Then, Jesus, realising that he had answered with understanding, said to him, "You are not far from the kingdom of God." But no one dared to question him any more.
Is Christ the son of David? (vv. 35-37).
35) However, by way of a reply, Jesus said, as he was teaching in the temple, "How (is it that) the scribes say that the Christ is the son of David? 36) David, himself, under (the influence of) the Holy Spirit, said, 'The Lord said to my lord, "Sit at my right (hand), until I put your enemies beneath your feet" ' (vid. Psalms 110.1). 37) David, himself, calls him 'Lord', so how can he be his son?"
The denouncing of the scribes (vv. 37-40).
And the large crowd heard him with pleasure. 38) In his teaching, he said to them, "Beware the scribes who like to walk around in robes and (receive) greetings in the market-places, 39) and the front-row seats in the synagogues and the most prominent places at feasts. 40) (They are) the ones who consume the homes of widows, and make long prayers as a pretext; they will receive a heavier judgment."
The widow's mite (vv. 41-44).
41) And he sat down facing the contribution box, and saw how the multitude cast money into the box; and many (who were) rich threw in many (coins); 42) now, a poor widow came and threw in two small copper coins, which make up a penny. 43) And he summoned his disciples and said to them, "Truly I tell you that this poor widow threw in more than all of those dropping (money) into the contribution box; 43) for they all dropped (money) in out of their surplus, but she, out of her poverty, dropped in all that she had, the whole of her livelihood."
CHAPTER 13.
The destruction of the Temple foretold (vv. 1-2).
1) And, as he is going out of the temple, one of his disciples says to him, "Teacher, see what great stones and what great buildings (there are here)." 2) but Jesus said to him, "Do you see these great buildings? (There will) not (be one) stone left here upon (another) stone, which will not be thrown down."
The beginning of sorrows (vv. 3-13).
3) Then, as he was sitting on the Mount of Olives overlooking the Temple, Peter, and James, and John and Andrew asked him privately, 4) "Tell us when will these (things) be, and what (will be) the sign when all these (things) are about to be fulfilled?" 5) Jesus started to say to them, "See that no one leads you astray. 6) (For) many will come, making use of my name, saying, 'I am (he)', and they will lead many astray. 7) When you hear of wars and reports of wars, do not be disturbed; (for these) must happen, but the end (is) not yet. 8) For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom (vid. Isaiah 19.2), there will be earthquakes in various places, (and) there will be famines; these (things are) the beginning of great distress.
9) "But look out for yourselves; (for) they will deliver you up to councils and you will be beaten in synagogues, and you will be made to stand before governors and kings for my sake as a witness to them. 10) And the gospel must first be preached to all the nations. 11) And, when they lead you off and deliver (you) up, do not be concerned about what you will say, but whatever will be given to you at that hour, say this, for you are not the (ones) speaking, but the Holy Spirit (is). 12) Then brother will deliver up brother to death, and father his child, and children will rise up against parents (vid. Micah 7.6) and have them put to death; 13) And you will be hated by all (men) on account of my name. But he who endures to the end, the same will be saved.
The great tribulation (vv. 14-23).
14) "But when you see the abomination of desolation (vid. Daniel 9.27, 11.31, 12.11; I Maccabees 1.54) standing where it ought not - let the reader be mindful - then let those in Judea flee to the mountains, 15) do not let the (man who is) on the roof (of the house) come down, nor let him go inside to take anything out of his house, 16) and do not let the (man who is) in the field return to the (things he has left) behind to pick up his cloak. 17) And woe to those (women) who are with child, and to those who are suckling (a baby) in those days. 18) And pray that it (i.e. their flight) may not happen in the winter; 19) for those days will (see) an affliction of a kind such as has not occurred from the beginning of the creation, which God created, until the present (vid. Daniel 12.1), and it will never happen (again). 20) In fact, if the Lord had not shortened the days, no flesh would have been saved at all; but, on account of the elect, whom he chose, he did cut short the days.
21) "Then, if anyone tells you, 'Look, here (is) the Christ, see, there (he is),' do not believe (it); 22) For false Christs and false prophets will arise and will give signs and wonders (vid. Deuteronomy 13.1-3) in order to lead astray, if possible, (even) the chosen (ones). 23) But you watch out! (For) I have foretold all (things) to you.
The coming of the Son of man (vv. 24-27).
24) But in those days, after that affliction, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, 25) and the stars will be falling from heaven, and the powers which (are) in the heavens will be made to shake (vid. Isaiah 13.10; Ezekiel 32.7-8; Joel 2.10, 2.31, 3.15). 26) Then, they will see the Son of man coming in the clouds with great power and glory (vid. Daniel 7.13-14); 27) and then he will send out his angels and will gather together his chosen (ones) from the four winds, (and) from the ends of the earth to the extremity of the sky (vid. Deuteronomy 30.4; Zechariah 2.6).
The parable of the fig-tree (vv. 28-31).
28) Now, learn this parable from the fig-tree: as soon as its young branch grows tender and produces leaves you know that summer is near; 29) so you also, when you see these (things) come to pass, know that it is near, at the doors. 30) Truly I tell you that this generation will by no means pass away until all these (things) should happen. 31) Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.
The unknown day and hour (vv. 32-37).
"But of that day or (of) that hour no one knows, neither the angels in heaven nor the Son, but only the Father. 33) Keep watch, stay on the alert, for you do not know when is the appointed time; 34) (It is) like a man travelling abroad leaving his house and giving responsibility for their work to each (one) of his servants, but he commanded the door-keeper to be watchful. 35) So, keep awake, for you do not know when the lord of the house is coming, whether in the evening, or at mid-night, or at cock-crow, or early in the morning, lest, coming suddenly, he might find you sleeping; 36) but what I say to you, I say to all, keep on the watch!"
V. PASSION AND RESURRECTION (Ch. 11.1 - 16.8).
CHAPTER 14.
The plot to kill Jesus (vv. 1-2).
1) Now the (Feast of) the Passover and the (Feast of) Unleavened Bread was two days away. And the chief priests and the scribes sought how they might seize him by a crafty device and kill (him). 2) For they kept on saying, "Not during the Festival, so that there should not be a riot of the people at that time."
The anointing at Bethany (vv. 3-9).
3) When he was in Bethany, at the home of Simon the leper, (and,) as he was reclining (at table), a woman came with an alabaster (case) of perfumed oil, genuine nard, very costly, (and,) breaking open the alabaster (case), she poured (it) over his head. 4) But there were some expressing indignation among themselves, (saying) for what (reason) has this waste of the perfumed oil occurred? 5) For this perfumed oil could have been sold for upwards of three hundred denarii, to be given to the poor; 6) But Jesus said, "Leave her alone! Why do you cause her trouble? She did a fine deed on my behalf; 7) For you have the poor with you always (vid. Deuteronomy 15.11) and, whenever you want to, you can always do them good, but you will not always have me; 8) she did what she could; she undertook beforehand to anoint my body with a view to laying (me) out for burial. 9) Truly I say to you, wherever the gospel may be preached throughout the whole world, what this (woman) has done will be spoken of as a memorial of her."
Judas conspires to betray Jesus (vv. 10-11).
10) Then, Judas Iscariot, who (was) one of the Twelve, went off to the chief priests, in order to betray him to them. 11) When they heard (this), they rejoiced, and promised to give him money. And he sought how he might conveniently deliver him.
Preparations for the Passover supper (vv. 12-16).
12) Now on the first day of the (Feast of) Unleavened Bread, when they were sacrificing the Passover (lamb) (vid. Exodus 12.6,14-20) his disciples said to him, "Where do you want (us) to go, so we may prepare for you to eat the Passover (meal)?" 13) So, he sends off two of his disciples and says to them, "Go into the city, and a man, carrying a pitcher of water will meet you; follow him, 14) and, wherever he goes inside, say to the master of the house, 'The Teacher says, "Where is my guest-room, where I may eat the Passover (meal) with my disciples?" ' 15) And he, himself, will show you a large upper room, furnished and made ready; and there prepare for us." 16) So, the disciples went out and came into the city, and found (things) just as he had told them, and they prepared the Passover (meal).
Jesus foretells Judas' treachery (vv. 17-21).
17) And, when it was evening, he comes with the Twelve. 18) And, as they were reclining (at table) and eating, Jesus said, "Truly I tell you that one of you who is eating with me will betray me (vid. Psalms 41.9). 19) They began to be sorrowful and to say to him one by one, "Surely (it is) not I, (is it)?" 20) Then, he said to them, "(It is) one of the Twelve, who (is) dipping with me into the common dish; indeed, the Son of man is going as it is written about him, but woe to that man, by whom the Son of man is betrayed; (it would be) better for him, if that man had not been born."
The institution of the Eucharist (vv. 22-26).
22) And, as they were eating, he took bread, and, having blessed (it), he broke (it) and gave (it) to them, and said, "Take, (eat), this is my body." 23) And took a cup, and having offered a prayer of thanksgiving, he gave (it) to them, and they all drank from it. 24) And he said to them, "This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many. 25). Truly I tell you that I shall no more drink of the fruit of the vine until that day, when I drink it anew in the kingdom of God." 26) And, after they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.
Peter's denial foretold (vv. 27-31).
27) Then, Jesus says to them, "You will all be made to stumble, because it is written, 'I will strike the shepherd and the sheep will be scattered abroad;' 28) but, after I have been raised up, I will go before you into Galilee." 29) But Peter said to him, "Even if all (the others) are made to stumble, yet I (will) not. 30) Then, Jesus say to him, "Truly I say to you that you, today, on this very night, before the cock crows twice, will deny me thrice." 31) But he (i.e. Peter) spoke with great emphasis: "If I must die together with you, yet I will not deny you," and they all spoke likewise also.
Gethsemane (vv. 32-42).
32) So, they come to a place, the name of which (is) Gethsemane, and he says to his disciples, "Sit down here, while I pray." 33) And he took Peter, and James and John along with him, and he started to be distressed and full of anxiety. 34) And he says to them, "My soul is sad (vid. Psalms 42.5), even unto death (vid. Jonah 4.9); stay here and keep watch!" 35) And he went forward a little (way) and fell on the ground, and began to pray that, if it were possible, the hour might pass away from him, 36) and he went on to say, "Abba, Father, to you all (things are) possible; (please) remove this cup from me; yet not what I want, but what you (want)." 37) And he came and found them sleeping, and he says to Peter, "Simon, are you asleep? Did you not have the strength to stay awake for one hour? 38) Keep alert and pray that you do not come into temptation; indeed, the spirit (is) willing, but the flesh (is) weak. 39) And again he went away and prayed, saying the same words. 40) And again he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were heavy and they did not know what to say in reply to him. 41) And he comes a third (time) and says to them, "Go on sleeping for the (time) that is left and take your rest; it is enough; the hour is come. Behold, the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. 42) Arise, let us go! Look, he who betrays me is nigh!
The arrest of Jesus (vv. 43-49).
43) And, immediately, while he was still speaking, there came Judas, one of the Twelve, and, with him, a crowd with swords and wooden clubs (sent) by the chief priests and the scribes and the elders. 44) Now, he who betrayed him had given them a signal, saying whomever it is that I shall kiss, seize him and lead (him) away safely. 45) And, immediately, after he has come, he goes up to him and says, "Rabbi," and kissed him. 46) And they laid their hands upon him and seized him. 47) And a certain one of those who were standing by, drew his sword and struck the servant of the chief priests and cut off his ear. 48) Then, in response, Jesus said to them, "Have you come out to arrest me with swords and clubs as though (you are going) against a robber? 49) I was with you daily in the temple, teaching, and you didn't seize me; but (this is) so that the scriptures may be fulfilled."
The young man who fled (vv. 50-52).
50) Then, they all left him and fled.
51) But a young man followed him, having thrown a linen cloth over his naked (body), and they try to seize him, 52) but he, leaving behind his linen garment, escaped naked.
Jesus' trial before the Sanhedrin (vv. 53-65).
53) And they led Jesus away to the High Priest (i.e. Caiaphas), and all the chief priests and the elders and the scribes gather together. 54) And Peter followed him from a distance, as far as the courtyard of the High Priest, and he was sitting with the attendants and warming himself before the brightness (of the fire). 55) Then, the High Priest and the whole of the Sanhedrin were looking for testimony against Jesus in order to put him to death, but they did not find (any); 56) for many gave false witness against him, and their testimonies were not consistent. 57) And some stood up and gave false witness against him, saying, "We heard him say, 'I shall destroy this temple that was made by (human) hands, and in three days I shall build another not made by (human) hands.' " 59) Yet, even then, their testimony on these grounds was not in agreement. 60) Then, the High Priests stood up in the midst (of them) and questioned Jesus, saying, "Have you nothing to say in reply, (about) what these (people) are testifying against you?" 61) But he stayed silent and answered nothing. Again the High Priest) questioned him, and says to him, "Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed (One)?" 62) Then, Jesus said, "I AM, and you will see the Son of man sitting at the right (hand) of power and coming with the clouds of heaven (vid. Psalms 110.1; Daniel 7.13)." 63) At this, the High Priest rent his inner clothing and says. "What need do we still have of witnesses? 64) You have heard this blasphemy? What do you think?" Then they all condemned him to be deserving of death. 65) And some began to spit on him and to cover all of his face, and to beat him with their fists and to say to him, "Prophesy," and the attendants struck him with slaps.
Peter's denials of Jesus (vv. 66-72).
66) As Peter was in the courtyard below, one of the maids of the High Priest comes, 67) and, seeing Peter warming himself, she looks at him, and says, "You too were with the Nazarene, Jesus." 68) But he denied (this), saying, "I neither know nor understand what you are saying," and he went out into the forecourt, [and a cock crowed]. 69) And the maid saw him and began again to tell bystanders, "This is (one) of them." 70) And again he denied (it). After a little (while), the bystanders said again to Peter, "You are certainly (one) of them, for, indeed, you are a Galilean." 71) And he began to curse and swear, "I do not know this man, of whom you speak." 72) And at once the cock crowed a second time; then, Peter remembered the saying that Jesus had said to him, "Before the cock crows twice, you will deny me thrice," and he broke down and wept.
CHAPTER 15.
Jesus before Pilate (vv. 1-5).
1) And, immediately, at dawn the chief priests with the elders and scribes and the whole Sanhedrin, after holding a consultation, bound Jesus, and led (him) away and delivered (him) to Pilate (i.e. the Roman governor). 2) Then, Pilate asked him, "Are you the King of the Jews?" And, in answer, he says to him, "You say (so)." 3) And the chief priests accused him of many (things). 4) Now, Pilate began to question him again, saying, "Have you nothing to say in reply? See, how many (things) they are accusing you of!" 5) But Jesus still answered nothing (vid. Isaiah 53.7), such that Pilate was amazed.
Jesus is sentenced to death (vv. 6-15).
6) Now, at this festival he used to release to them one prisoner whom they petitioned for. 7) And there was (one) called Barabbas, bound with those rebels who, in their sedition, had committed murder. 8) So, the crowd came up and began to ask (him to do) as he used to do for them. 9) Pilate answered them, saying, "Do you wish that I release that I release to you the King of the Jews? 10) Foe he realised that the chief priests had delivered him up on account of their envy. 11) But the chief priests stirred up the crowd, so that he he might release Barabbas to them instead. 12) Answering once more, Pilate said to them, "So what should I do (to him) whom you call the King of the Jews?" 13) And again they cried out, "Crucify him!" 14) But Pilate said to them, "Why, for (what) bad (thing) did he do?" But they cried out all the more, "Crucify him!" 15) Then, Pilate, wishing to do what (would) satisfy the crowd, released Barabbas to them, and, after he had had (him) flogged, he handed Jesus over to be crucified.
Jesus is publicly mocked (vv. 16-20).
16) Then, the soldiers led him away into the courtyard which is (within) the governor's palace, and they summon the whole cohort. 17) And they dress him in purple, and, weaving a crown of thorns, they put (it) on him; 18) And they began to salute him, "Hail, King of the Jews!" 19) And they struck his head with a reed and spat on him, and, bending their knees, they did obeisance to him. 20) And, when they had mocked him, they stripped him of the purple and dressed him in his outer garments. Then, they led him out to crucify him.
The way of the cross (vv. 21-22).
21) And they pressed (one) who was passing by, a certain Simon of Cyrene, who came from the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to lift up his cross. 22) And they brought him to the place (called) Golgotha, which means, (when) translated, the Place of a Skull.
The crucifixion of Jesus (vv. 23-32).
23) And they offered him wine mixed with myrrh (vid. Psalms 69.21), but he did not take (it). 24) And they impale him (on the stake), and distribute his outer garments (vid. Psalms 22.18), casting lots over them (as to) who should take what. 25) And it was the third hour (i.e. about 9.00 am.), and they crucified him. 26) And the inscription of the charge against him was written above (them), "The King of the Jews." 27) And they crucified two robbers with him, one on his right (hand) and one on his left. 28) -- 29) And those going by spoke abusively to him, wagging their heads (vid. Psalms 22.7) and saying, "Ha! (You) who would destroy the temple and build (it again) in three days, 30) save yourself and come down from the cross." 31) Likewise also, the chief priests, making fun (of him) among themselves with the scribes, said, "He saved others; himself he cannot save. 32) Let the Christ, the King of Israel, now come down from the cross, so that we may see and believe." Even those who were crucified with him reproached him.
The death of Jesus (vv. 33-39).
33) And, when the sixth hour had come (i.e. it was about 12.00 noon), there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour (i.e. about 3.p.m.). 34) And at the ninth hour, Jesus cried out with a loud voice, "Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani," which means, (when) translated, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (vid. Psalms 22.1.) 35) And, when some of those who were standing by heard (this), they said, "See, he is calling Elijah." 36) And one (of them) ran and filled a sponge full of vinegar, and, putting (it) on a reed, gave (it) to him to drink (vid. Psalms 69.21), saying, "Let (him) be! Let us whether Elijah is coming to take him down." 37) But Jesus let out a loud cry and gave up the ghost. 38) And the veil of the temple was rent in two from top to bottom. 39) And, when the centurion who was standing opposite him saw that he had died in these circumstances, he said, "Truly, this man was the Son of God."
The women at Calvary (vv. 40-41).
40) And there were also women watching from afar, among them Mary Magdalene, and Mary, the mother of James the Less and of Joses, and Salome (i.e. the mother of the sons of Zebedee), 41) who used to accompany him and serve him, and many other (women) who had gone up with him to Jerusalem.
The burial of Jesus (vv. 42-47).
42) Now it was already evening, (and) since it was the (Day of) Preparation, that is (the day) before the Sabbath, there came Joseph of Arimathea, a reputable council member (i.e. a member of the Sanhedrin), who was himself also awaiting the kingdom of God, and he ventured to go in before Pilate and ask for Jesus' body. 44) But Pilate wondered whether he had already died, and, summoning the centurion, he asked him whether he was already dead; 45) then, having ascertained (that he was), he bestowed Jesus' corpse upon Joseph. 46) And, having purchased some fine linen, he (i.e. Joseph of Arimathea) took him down, and wrapped (him) in the linen cloth and laid him a tomb, which had been quarried out of rock, and he rolled a stone up to the door of the tomb. 47) And Mary Magdalene, and Mary, the mother of Joses, saw where he had been laid.
CHAPTER 16.
The resurrection of Jesus (vv. 1-8).
1) 1) Now, when the Sabbath had passed, Mary Magdalen and Mary, the (mother) of James, and Salome, bought some spices, in order that they might come and anoint him. 2) And very early, on the first day of the week, they come to the tomb, when the sun had risen. 3) And they were saying to one another, "Who will roll away the stone from the door of the tomb for us?" 4) But, when they looked up, they behold that the stone has been rolled away, although it was very large. 5) And, entering the tomb, they saw a young man sitting on the right (side), dressed in a white robe, and they were astonished. 6) And he says to them, "Do not be amazed! You seek Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified; he has risen, he is not here; behold, the place where they laid him! 7) But go, tell his disciples and Peter, "He goes before you into Galilee; there you will see him, just as he told you." 8) Then, they went out, and fled from the tomb, for trembling and astonishment had taken hold of them; but they said nothing to anyone, for they were afraid.
THE LONGER ENDING OF MARK (Ch. 16. 9-20).
(Certain ancient manuscripts and versions, including the Authorised Version, add the following long conclusion:)
The appearance to Mary Magdalen (vv. 9-11).
9) [Now, after he had risen early on the first (day) of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalen, from whom he had expelled seven demons. 10) She went and reported to those who had been with him, who were weeping and wailing; 11) but, when they heard that he was alive and had been seen by her, they did not believe (it).
The appearance to two disciples (vv. 12-13).
12) Then, after this, he appeared to two of them, as they were walking along, while they were journeying into the country. 13) They went away and told (it) to the rest; and they did not believe them either.
The commissioning of the disciples (vv. 14-18).
14) But later he appeared to the Eleven, themselves, as they were reclining (at the table), and he rebuked (them) for their lack of faith and hardness of heart, because they did not believe those who had seen him since he had risen from the dead. 15) And he said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to the whole of creation. 16) He who believes and is baptised will be saved, but he who disbelieves will be condemned. 17) Moreover, these signs will accompany those who believe; in my name they will cast out demons, (and) they will speak with tongues. 18) And they will pick up serpents in their hands, and, if they drink anything deadly, it will not harm them at all; they will lay their hands upon the sick, and they will become well.
The ascension of Jesus (vv. 19-20).
19) So then, the Lord Jesus, after having spoken to them, was taken up into heaven, and sat at the right (hand) of God. 20) And they went out and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with (them) and confirmed the message by the accompanying signs.]
THE SHORTER ENDING OF MARK.
(Some late manuscripts and versions contain a short conclusion after Mark 16.8, as follows:)
[But all (the things) that had been commanded, they briefly related to Peter and his companions. Further, after these (things), Jesus himself sent out through them from the east to the west the holy and incorruptible proclamation of everlasting salvation.]
The baptism of Jesus (vv. 9-11).
9) Now it happened in those days that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptised by John in the Jordan. 10) And, immediately, on coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens parting and the spirit descending on him like a dove; 11) and a voice came down from the heavens, (saying) "You are my beloved son, (and) in you I am well pleased."
Jesus is tempted in the wilderness (vv. 12-13).
12) And immediately the spirit drove him into the wilderness. 13) And he was in the wilderness for forty days, being tempted by Satan, and he was with the wild beasts, and the angels ministered unto him.
II. JESUS' GALILEAN MINISTRY (Ch. 1.14 - 7.23).
Jesus begins preaching in Galilee (vv. 14-15).
14) Now, after the arrest of John, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the good news of God, 15) and saying, "The appointed time has been fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand! Repent and believe in the good news."
The first four disciples are called (vv. 16-20).
16) While passing along by the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew, the brother of Simon, casting their nets around in the sea, for they were fishermen. 17) Then Jesus said to them, "Come, follow after me, and I shall make you become fishers of men." 18) And, at once, they gave up their nets and followed him. 19) Then, going on a little further, he saw James, the son of Zebedee, and John, his brother, while they were in their boat, mending the nets, 20) and, immediately, he called them. And leaving their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men, they went after him.
Jesus teaches in Capernaum, and expels an unclean spirit (vv. 21-28).
21) And they went into Capernaum. And, on the Sabbath, he immediately entered the synagogue and began to preach. 22) And they were astounded at his teaching, for he was teaching them as (one) having authority and not like the scribes. 23) And, at that time, there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit, and he cried out, 24) saying, "What (have) we (to do) with you, Jesus, (you) Nazarene? Have you come to destroy us? I know you who you are, the Holy (One) of God!" 25) But Jesus rebuked him, saying, "Be quiet, and come out of him!" 26) And the unclean spirit, after convulsing him and crying out with a loud voice, came out of him. 27) And they were all amazed, so that they began debating among themselves, saying, "What is this? (It is) a new teaching: (for) with authority he even commands the unclean spirits and they obey him." 28) And his reputation at once spread everywhere into all the region around Galilee.
The cure of Simon's mother-in-law (vv. 29-31).
29) And, immediately, they went out of the synagogue, and, together with James and John, they came to the house of Simon and Andrew. 30) Now, Simon's mother-in-law was lying sick with a fever, and at once they told him about her. 31) And coming to (her), and, taking (her) by the hand, he raised her up; and the fever left her, and she began to minister unto them.
Jesus heals many in Capernaum (vv. 32-34).
32) When evening had come and the sun had set, they brought to him all who were sick and those (who were) possessed by demons; 33) and the whole city was gathered together at the door. 34) And he healed many who were sick with various diseases and cast out many demons, but he would not permit the demons to speak, because they knew he was the Christ.
Jesus prays in a lonely place, and then travels through Galilee, preaching and expelling demons (vv. 35-39).
35) Then, early in the morning, while it was (still) very dark, he arose and went out, and he departed to a lonely place, and there he prayed. 36) But Simon and those (who were) with him, followed him closely, 37) and they found him and told him: "Everyone is looking for you." 38) Then he said to them, "Let us go elsewhere, into the market-towns, in order that I may preach there also, for (it was) for this (reason that) I went out." 39) And he went throughout the whole of Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and expelling demons.
A leper is cured by Jesus (vv. 40-45).
40) There also came to him a leper, entreating him and saying to him on bended knee, "If you want to, you can make me clean. 41) Then, full of compassion, he stretched out his hand and touched (him), and said to him, "I do want to. Be made clean!" 42) And, immediately, the leprosy left him and he was cleansed. 43) And, after giving him strict orders, he sent him away at once, 44) and said to him, "See that you say nothing to anyone, but go, show yourself to the priest, and offer for your cleansing (the things) which Moses prescribed as a testimony to them." 45) But he went out and began to proclaim the story many times and to spread (it) abroad, so that he could no longer enter a city openly, but remained outside in lonely places; and they came to him from everywhere.
CHAPTER 2.
The healing of a paralytic (vv. 1-12).
1) Now, when, after some days, he entered Capernaum again, it was heard that he was in a house; 2) and many were gathered together, so that there was no more room, not even in the (area) near the door, and he began to speak the word to them. 3) And (people) came, bringing to him a paralytic carried by four (men). 4) But, being unable to bring him right up to Jesus on account of the crowd, they removed the roof (above) where he was, and, having torn out (an opening), they lowered the mattress on which the paralytic was lying. 5) And, when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, "Child, your sins are forgiven." 6) Now there were certain of the scribes sitting there and considering in their minds, 7) "Why does this (man) speak like that? He is blaspheming. Who can forgive sins but God alone?" 8) But Jesus, as soon as having realised that they were reasoning among themselves in this way, said to them, "Why are you reasoning these (things) in your minds? Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Arise and take up your bed and walk'? But in order that you may know that the Son of man has authority on earth to forgive sins," he said to the paralytic, "I say to you, 'Arise and take up your bed, and go to your house.' " 12) Then, he arose, and immediately took up his bed and went out in front of all (of them), so that they were all amazed, and they glorified God, saying, "We never saw such a thing as this."
The calling of Levi (vv. 13-14).
13) And he went out again beside the sea; and all the crowd kept coming to him, and he taught them. 14) And, as he passed by, he saw Levi, the (son) of Alphaeus, sitting at the custom-house, and he said to him, "Follow me." And he arose and followed him.
Eating with sinners (vv. 15-17).
15) And it happened that he was reclining (at table) in his house, and many publicans (i.e. tax-collectors) and sinners sat down with Jesus and his disciples, for there were many (of them) and they began to follow him. 16) But the scribes of the Pharisees, when they saw that he was eating with sinners and publicans, said to his disciples, "Is he (really) eating with these publicans and sinners?" 17) When Jesus heard (this), he said to them, "Those who are healthy have no need for a doctor, but those who are sick (do); I came not to call the righteous but sinners (to repentance)."
A question about fasting (vv. 18-22).
18) Now, John's disciples and the Pharisees were fasting. So, they came and said to him, "Why are John's disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees fasting, but your disciples do not fast?" 19) Jesus said to them, "The groomsmen cannot fast, while the bridegroom is with them (can they)? As long as they have the bridegroom with them they cannot fast; 20) but the time will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then, on that day, they will fast. 21) No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on to an old garment; otherwise, the patch takes (the strength) from it, the new (cloth) from the old, and the tear becomes worse. 22) No one puts new wine into old skins; otherwise, the wine will burst the skins; but (people put) new wine into fresh skins."
Plucking corn on the Sabbath (vv. 23-28).
23) Now it happened that he was going through the corn fields on the Sabbath (day), and his disciples started plucking the ears of corn as they made their way. 24) And the Pharisees said to him, "Why are they doing what is not lawful on the Sabbath?" 25) And he said to them, "Have you never read what David did when he had need and was hungry, he and his followers? 26) How he entered into the house of God, when Abiathar (was) high priest, and ate the bread of the presentation, which it is not lawful (for anybody) except the priests to eat, and he also gave (it) to those who were with him?" And he went on to say to them, "The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. Therefore, the Son of man is Lord, even of the Sabbath."
CHAPTER 3.
The healing of the man with a withered hand (vv. 1-6).
1) And he entered into the synagogue again, and there there was a man with a withered hand; 2) and they were watching him closely, (to see) whether he would heal him on the Sabbath, in order that they might accuse him. 3) Then, he said to the man with the withered hand, "Arise and (come) into our midst. 4) And he said to them, "Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do harm, to save a life or to end (one)?" They, however, were silent. 5) And, after looking around at them with indignation, as he was aggrieved at the hardening of their hearts, he said to the man, "Stretch out your hand;" then, he stretched (it) out, and his hand was restored (to health). 6) Then, the Pharisees went out, and, immediately, hatched a plot with the Herodians to destroy him.
The great multitude on the shore (vv. 7-12).
7) But Jesus, with his disciples, withdrew to the sea; and a great multitude from Galilee and from Judea followed (him), 8) even from Jerusalem, and from Idumea, and from across the Jordan, and around Tyre and Sidon. A great multitude, hearing the many things which he was doing, came to him. 9) And he told his disciples that a little boat should stand ready in his service, because of the crowd, in order that they might not press upon him; 10) for he had cured many (people), with the result that all those who had grievous diseases fell upon him, in order that they might touch him. 11) And the unclean spirits, whenever they beheld him, fell down before him and cried out, saying, "You are the Son of God." 12) And he sternly warned them not to make known (who) he (was).
The appointment of the Twelve Apostles (vv. 13-19).
13) And he went up into a mountain, and summoned to himself (those) whom he wanted, and they went to him. 14) And he appointed twelve (men), whom he also named 'apostles', in order that they might be with him, and in order that he might send them out to preach 15) and to have authority to cast out demons; 16) And (of the group of) twelve (whom) he appointed, he laid the name 'Peter' (i.e. the Rock) upon Simon, 17) and (he appointed) James, the (son) of Zebedee and John, the brother of James, and he gave them the name 'Boanerges', which means 'Sons of Thunder', 18) and (he appointed) Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James, the (son) of Alphaeus, and Thaddeus, and Simon the Cananaean (i.e. the Zealot), 19) and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him.
Jesus' family are concerned about him (vv. 20-21).
20) And he came into a house; and the crowd gathered again, so that they were not able even to eat bread. 21) But, when his relatives heard about (it), they went out to lay hold of him, for they said that he was out of his mind.
Allegations of the scribes (vv. 22-30).
22) Also, the scribes that came down from Jerusalem said, "He is possessed by Beelzebub, and he is expelling demons by means of the ruler of the demons." 23) So, after calling them to (him), he said to them in parables, "How can Satan cast out Satan? 24) If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand; 25) and, if a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand; 26) so, if Satan has risen up against himself and is divided, he cannot stand, and there is an end (of him). 27) But no one entering into the house of a strong (man) can plunder his property, unless he has bound the strong (man) first, and then he will plunder his house. 28) Assuredly, I say to you that all (things) will be forgiven the sons of men, whatever sins and blasphemies they may have blasphemously committed; 29) but whoever may blaspheme against the Holy Spirit has no forgiveness ever, but is guilty of everlasting sin." 30) (This was) because they were saying ,"He has an unclean spirit."
The true kinsmen of Jesus (vv. 31-35).
31) Now, his mother and his brothers came, and, as they were standing outside, they sent (a message) to him, calling him. 32) And a crowd (of people) were sitting around him, and they said to him, "Behold, your mother and your brothers are outside looking for you!" 33) But, in answer, he said to them, "Who are my mother and my brothers?" And, looking around at those (who were) sitting in a circle around him, he said, "Behold, my mother and my brothers; 35) (for) whoever does the will of God, this (person) is my brother and sister and mother!"
CHAPTER 4.
The parable of the sower (vv. 1-9).
1) And again he started to teach beside the sea. And a very great crowd was gathered unto him, so that he got into a boat on the sea, and sat down (in it), and all the crowd were on the land by the sea. 2) And he taught (them) many (things) in parables, and told them in his teaching, 3) "Listen. Behold, the sower went forth to sow. 4) And it happened in (the course of) the sowing that some (seed) fell beside the road, and the birds came and devoured it. 5) And some fell on stony ground, where there was not much earth, and immediately it sprang up, because it had no depth of soil; 6) and, when the sun rose, it was scorched, and, because it had no root, it withered away. 7) And some fell into the thorns, and the thorns came up and choked it, and it yielded no fruit. 8) But other (seeds) fell into the fine soil and yielded fruit which grew up and increased, and they bore (fruit) thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold. 9) And he added, "(He) who has ears to hear, let him hear!"
Why Jesus spoke in parables (vv. 10-12).
10) Now, when he was alone, those (who were) around him together with the twelve began to ask him about the parables. 11) Then, he said to them, "To you has been given the mystery of the kingdom of God; but to those (who are) outside all things are done in parables, 12) so that Seeing they may see but not perceive, and hearing they may hear but not understand, lest at any time they should turn back and (their sins) should be forgiven them (cf. Isaiah 6.9-10)."
The parable of the sower explained (vv. 13-20).
13) And he said to them, "You do not know this parable, so how will you understand all the (other) parables? 14) The sower sows the word. 15) These are the ones beside the road where the word is sown, but, as soon as they have heard (it), Satan comes and takes away the word which has been sown in them. 16) And likewise these are the ones sown on the stony ground, who, as soon as they have heard the word, receive it with joy; yet they have no root in themselves, but endure only for a while, (and) then, when oppression or persecution arises on account of the word, they are made to stumble at once. 18) And others there are, who are sown among the thorns: these are the ones who have heard the word, 19) but the cares of this world and the snare of riches and the desire for other things enter in and choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful. 20) Then, there are those who were sown on the good ground, such as hear the word and welcome (it), and they bear fruit thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold."
The light under a bushel (vv. 21-23).
And he went on to say to them, "A lamp is not brought to be placed under a bushel (i.e. a measuring basket) or under the bed, (is it)? but in order to be put on a lamp-stand, (is it) not? 22) For there is no(thing) hidden except in order that it be exposed, nor has (anything) become carefully concealed but that it should come to light. 23) If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear!"
The measure you use (vv. 24-25).
24) And he said to them, "Take heed of what you hear. With what measure you measure, it will be measured unto you, and (more) will be added to you. 25) For (he) who has, (more) shall be given to him; and (he) who has not, even (that) which he has will be taken away from him.
The parable of the seed growing by itself (vv. 26-29).
26) And he said, "The kingdom of God is just as when a man casts seed on the ground, 27) and he sleeps and gets up night and day, and the seed should sprout and grow tall, how he does not know. 28) The earth bears fruit by itself, first the blade of grass, then the ear of corn, then the full grain in the ear. 29) But, as soon as the fruit permits (it), he brings out the sickle, because the harvest-time has come."
The parable of the mustard seed (vv. 30-32).
30) And he went on to say, "In what way are we to liken the kingdom of God, or with what parable shall we illustrate it? 31) (It's) like a grain of mustard, which at the time when it was sown in the ground was the smallest of all the seeds which (are) upon the earth - 32) but, when it has been sown, it grows up and becomes greater than all the (other) herbs, and produces great branches so that all the birds of the air can find lodging under its shadow.
The use of parables (vv. 33-34).
33) So, with many such parables he spoke the word to them, inasmuch as they could hear (it); 34) apart from parables he did not speak to them, but privately to his own disciples he explained everything.
The calming of the storm (vv. 35-41).
35) And on that day, when evening had come, he said to them, "Let us go over to the other side." 36) And leaving the crowd behind, they took him with them just as he was in the boat, and there were other boats with him. 37) And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves kept dashing into the boat, so that the boat was already swamped. 38) And he himself was in the stern, sleeping on a pillow; and they woke him and said to him, "Teacher, don't you care that we are about to perish? 39) Then, he arose and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, "Hush! Be quiet!" And the wind abated and there was a great calm. 40) And he said to them, "Why are you afraid? Don't you yet have any faith?" 41) But they felt a great fear, and said to one another, "Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?"
CHAPTER 5.
Jesus meets the Gerasene demoniac (vv. 1-10).
1) And they came to the other side of the sea into the country of the Gerasenes. 2) And, as soon as he got out of the boat, a man with an unclean spirit (coming) from the memorial tombs met him. 3) He had his dwelling-place among the tombs, and up until that time no one had been able to bind him, even with a chain, 4) because he had often been bound with fetters and chains, but the chains had been torn asunder and the fetters had been smashed by him, and no one had the strength to subdue him; 5) and all night and (all) day he was among the tombs and in the mountains, crying out and cutting himself with stones. 6) And seeing Jesus from afar, he ran and bowed down to him, 7) and, crying out with a loud voice, he said, "What (have) I (to do) with you, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I adjure you by God that you do not torment me." 8) For he had been telling it, "Come out of the man, you unclean spirit." 9) And he asked him, "What (is) your name?" And he said to him, "My name (is) Legion, because we are many;" 10) And he entreated him many times not to send them out of the country.
The healing of the Gerasene demoniac; the unclean spirits enter a herd of swine (vv. 11-17).
11) Now, a great herd of swine was there feeding on the mountainside; 12) and they entreated him, saying, "Send us to the swine in order that we may enter into them." 13) And he gave them permission. Then, the unclean spirits came out and entered into the swine, and the herd rushed over the precipice into the sea, about two thousand (of them), and they were drowned in the sea. 14) Then, those who were tending them fled, and reported (it) in the city and in the countryside; and (people) came to see what it was that had happened. 15) So, they came to Jesus, and beheld the (man) who was possessed by demons sitting clothed and being of sound mind, he who had had the legion, and they were afraid. 16) And those who had seen (it) described to them how it had happened to the (man) who was possessed by demons, and about the swine. 17) And they started to entreat him to depart from their district.
Jesus' fame spreads across the Decapolis (vv. 18-20).
18) Now, as he was getting into the boat, the (man) who had been possessed by demons begged him that he might be with him. 19) He did not allow him (to do that), but said to him, "Go to your home (and) to your relatives and tell them all the things which the Lord has done for you, and the mercy he showed you." 20) And he departed and began to proclaim in the Decapolis all the things which Jesus had done for him, and everyone marvelled.
Jaïrus' daughter (vv. 21-24).
21) Now, after Jesus had crossed back again in the boat to the other side, a great crowd came together around him, and he was beside the sea. 22) Then, one of the presidents of the synagogue, Jaïrus by name, came and, seeing him, fell at his feet, 23) and entreated him many times, saying, "My little daughter is on the point of death. Would you please come and lay your hands upon her, so that she may be saved and live." 24) So, he went with him. And a great crowd was following him and together were pressing upon him.
Cure of the woman with a haemorrhage (vv. 25-34).
25) Now, there was a certain woman who had been subject to a flow of blood (i.e. a haemorrhage) for twelve years, 26) and who had suffered many things at the hands of many physicians and had spent all her resources and had not benefited in any way, but rather had got into a worse (state). 27) When she heard the (reports) about Jesus, she came right up behind (him) in the crowd and touched his cloak; 28) for she said, "If I can just touch his clothes, I shall be restored to health. 29) And at once the flow of her blood was dried up, and she sensed in her body that she was healed of her affliction. 30) And, immediately, Jesus, perceiving in himself that the power had gone out of him, turned about in the crowd and said, "Who touched my clothing?" 31) And his disciples said to him, "You see the crowd pressing in upon you, and (still) you say, "Who touched me?" 32) And he was looking around to see the (woman) who had done this. 33) But the woman, frightened and trembling, (but) knowing what had happened to her, came and fell down before him and told him the complete truth. 34) And he said to her, "Daughter, your faith has made you whole; go in peace, and be cured of your disease."
Jaïrus' daughter raised to life (vv. 35-43).
35) While he was still speaking, (some men) came from the synagogue president's house, saying, "Your daughter is dead; why bother the teacher any longer?" 36) But Jesus, overhearing the message being spoken, said to the president of the synagogue, "Fear not, only have faith!" 37) And he allowed no one to follow along with him except Peter and James and John, the brother of James. 38) So, they came to the synagogue president's house, and he beheld the noisy confusion and (people) weeping and wailing greatly, 39) and, when he had gone in, he said to them, "Why are you making such a commotion and weeping? The child is not dead but is sleeping." 40) And they began to laugh scornfully at him. But he, having expelled (them) all, took along the child's father and mother and his companions, and went in to where the child was; 41) Then, taking the hand of the child, he said to her, "Talitha cumi," which, when translated, means, "Young lady, to you I say 'Get up!' " 42) And at once the little girl arose and began to walk up and down, for she was twelve years (old). And immediately they were beside themselves with great ecstasy. 43) And he enjoined them strictly that no one should know of this, and he told (them) that (something) should be given to her to eat.
CHAPTER 6.
The rejection of Jesus at Nazareth (vv. 1-6).
1) And he went out from there and came into his native country, and his disciples followed him. 2) When the Sabbath had come, he began to teach in the synagogue, and many of those hearing (him) were amazed, saying, "From where did this (man) get these (ideas), and why has this wisdom and such powerful works come about through his hands? 3) Isn't this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon, and his sisters are here with us, are they not? And they took offence at him. 4) And Jesus said to them, "A prophet is not without honour, except in his own country and among his own relatives and in his own house. 5) And he could not do any powerful work there, except that he laid his hands on a few sick (people) and cured (them); 6) and he marvelled at their lack of faith.
And he went about the villages in a circle teaching.
The mission of the Twelve (vv. 7-13).
7) And he summoned the Twelve, and began to send them out two by two, and he gave them authority over the unclean spirits, 8) and he instructed them to carry nothing on the journey except a staff only, no bread, no knapsack, no copper in their belts, 9) but to put on sandals, and not to wear two tunics. 10) He also said to them, "Wherever you enter into a home, stay there until you depart from that place. 11) And whatever place does not receive you or hear you, when you depart from there, shake off the dirt (that is) under your feet as a testimony against them." 12) And they went out and preached in order that (people) might repent, 13) and they expelled many demons and anointed with oil many who were sick , and healed (them).
Herod and Jesus (vv. 14-16).
14) Now, King Herod heard about (him), for his name had become well-known, and (people) were saying, "John the Baptiser has been raised from the dead, and for this (reason) these powers are at work in him;" 15) others were saying, "It is Elijah;" still others were saying that it was a prophet, like one of the prophets. 16) But, when Herod heard (it), he said, "The John whom I beheaded, he has been raised up."
The arrest of John the Baptist (vv. 17-20).
17) For Herod himself had sent out (men) to arrest John, and had bound him in prison, for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, because he had married her. 18) For John had said to Herod, "It is not lawful for you to have your brother's wife." 19) And Herodias was nursing a grudge against him, and was wanting to kill him, but could not (do so). 20) For Herod was afraid of John, knowing him (to be) a righteous and a holy man, and was keeping him safe; and, after hearing him, he was greatly at a loss, but continued to hear him gladly.
John the Baptist is beheaded (vv. 21-29).
21) But a convenient day came along, when Herod made a dinner on his birthday for his top-ranking men and his military commanders and the chief men of Galilee, 22) and, when the daughter of Herodias (i.e. Salome) came in there and danced, she gave pleasure to Herod and those reclining with (him). And the king said to the young lady, "Ask me for whatever you wish, and I will give (it) to you; 23) and he swore to her, "Whatever you might ask me for, I will give (it) to you, even up to half of my kingdom." 24) Then, she went out and said to her mother, "What shall I ask for?" And she said, "The head of John the Baptiser." 25) And she went in immediately to the king in haste and made her request, saying, "I want you to give me right away the head of John the Baptist on a platter." 26) Although he was deeply grieved, the king did not wish to refuse her, on account of his oaths and those reclining (at his table); 27) so, the king immediately dispatched an executioner and commanded (him) to bring his head. And he went off and beheaded him in the prison, 28) and brought his head on a platter and gave it to the girl, and the girl gave it to her mother. 29) And, when his disciples heard (this), they came and took up his body and laid it in a tomb.
Jesus sends the apostles to a deserted place to rest (vv. 30-34).
30) And the apostles came to Jesus together, and reported to him everything that they had done and that they had taught. 31) And he said to them, "You yourselves go by yourselves to some deserted spot and rest up for a while." For there were many coming and going, and they did not have the opportunity to eat. 32) Then, they went off in the boat by themselves to a deserted spot. 33) But (people) saw them going and many got to know (about it), and ran there on foot from every city and got ahead of them. 34) And, when he got out, he saw a great crowd (of people), and he was moved with compassion for them because they were like sheep that did not have a shepherd, and he began to teach them many (things).
The feeding of the five thousand (vv. 35-44).
35) And, when the hour was already growing late, his disciples came to him and said, "This place is isolated, and the hour (is) already late; 36) Send them away, in order that they may go off into the neighbouring countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat." 37) But he said to them in answer, "You give them (something) to eat." And they said to him, "Shall we go and buy loaves (worth) two hundred denarii and give them (something) to eat?" 38) He said to them, "How many loaves do you have? Go (and) see!" And, when they knew, they said, "Five, and two fishes." 39) And he instructed them that they should all sit down in groups on the green grass. 40) And they sat down in groups of a hundred and of fifty. 41) Then, he took the five loaves and the two fishes, and, looking up to heaven, he blessed, and then broke, the loaves, and gave (them) to his disciples to set before them, and he divided the two fishes among (them) all. 42) And they all ate and were satisfied. 43) And they took up fragments that filled twelve baskets aside from the fishes. 44) And those who ate the loaves were five thousand.
Walking on the water (vv. 45-52).
45) And he compelled his disciples to board the boat at once and go on ahead to the other side near Bethsaida, while he himself dismissed the crowd. 46) And, after he had taken leave of them, he went up into the mountain to pray. 47) And, after evening had come, the boat was in the midst of the sea, and he (was) alone on the land. 48) And, seeing them hard-pressed in their rowing, for the wind was (blowing) against them, about the fourth watch of the night he came to them walking on the sea; and he was ready to go past them. 49) But they, when they saw him walking on the sea, thought that it was a ghost and cried out, 50) for they all saw him and were troubled. But he immediately spoke with them, and said to them, "Take courage, it is I, do not be afraid!" 51) And he got into the boat with them, and the wind abated. And they were very much amazed among themselves, 52) for they had not understood (the meaning) of the loaves, but their minds were closed.
The healing of the sick at Gennesaret (vv. 53-56).
53) And having got across to the land, they came into Gennesaret and came to anchor nearby. 54) And, when they got out of the boat, (people) recognised him at once, 55) and ran around that whole region, and began to carry about those who were sick on their mattresses to where they heard that he was. 56) And wherever he went into villages or into cities or into the countryside, they would lay the sick in the market places, and would entreat him that they might touch the hem of his garment; and whoever touched him was healed.
CHAPTER 7.
The traditions of the Elders exposed (vv. 1-13).
1) Now, the Pharisees and some of the scribes, having come from Jerusalem, gathered around him, 2) and saw that some of his disciples were eating their bread with defiled hands, that is unwashed (ones). -- 3) for the Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat, unless they wash their hands up to their elbows, holding fast to the tradition of the Elders, 4) and, (when returning) from the market-place, they do not eat unless they have cleansed themselves, and there are many other (observances) which they have had handed down (to them) to keep, (such as) the washing of cups, and pitchers, and copper vessels. -- 5) And the Pharisees inquired of him, "Why do your disciples not conduct themselves in accordance with the tradition of the Elders, but eat their bread with unclean hands." 6) But he said to them, "Well did Isaiah prophesy about you hypocrites, when he wrote, 'This people honours me with their lips, but their heart is far removed from me; 7) and they worship me to no avail, because they teach (as) doctrines the commandments of men.' (vid. Isaiah 29) 13) 8) (For) setting aside the commandment of God, you hold fast to the tradition of men." 9) Then, he went on to say to them, "Full well do you reject the commandment of God, in order to observe your tradition; 10) for Moses said, 'Honour your father and your mother,' (vid. Exodus 20.12; Deuteronomy 5.16) and 'Let him who reviles his father or his mother be put to death;' (vid. Exodus 21.16) 11) but you say, 'If a man says to his father or his mother, "Whatever benefit you may get from me (is) Corban, that is a Gift (dedicated to God)," '12) (and then) you no longer allow him to do anything for his father or his mother, 13) (thus) invalidating the word of God by your tradition which you handed down; and many such (things) closely resembling (this) you do."
Defilement comes from the heart (vv. 14-23).
14) Then, calling the crowd to (him) again, he said to them, "Listen to me and understand! 15) There is nothing from outside of a man, which, if it passes into him, can defile him; but the things which proceed out of a man are the things which defile a man." 16) --
17) Now, when he had entered a house away from the crowd, his disciples asked him about the parable. 18) So he said to them, "Are you also without perception like (them)? Aren't you aware that nothing that passes into a man from outside can defile him, 19) because it does not go into his heart, but into his belly, and then it passes out into the latrine, (thus) making all foods clean?" 20) However, he said, "That which comes out of a man, that (is what) defiles a man; 21) for from within, out of the minds of men, evil thoughts proceed: fornications, thefts, murders, 22) adulteries, covetings, wicked acts, deceit, wantonness, an evil eye, blasphemies, pride (and) folly; 23) all these evil things come from within, and (they are the things which) defile a man."
III. JESUS' JOURNEYS OUTSIDE GALILEE (Ch. 7.24 - 10.52).
The faith of the Syro-Phoenician woman (vv. 24-30).
24) From there he arose and went into the territories of Tyre and Sidon. And he entered a house, and did not want anyone to know, yet he could not escape notice; 25) but, as soon as a woman whose little daughter had an unclean spirit heard about him, she came and fell down at his feet; 26) the woman was Greek, a Syro-Phoenician by birth; and she begged him to expel the demon from her daughter. 27) But he said to her, "First let the children be satisfied, for it is not right to take the children's bread and throw (it) to the dogs." 28) But she answered and said to him, "Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs under the table eat from the little children's crumbs." 29) Then, he said to her, "Because of this saying (of yours), go your way! The demon has gone out of your daughter." 30) And she went away to her house and found the little child lying on her bed, and the demon gone.
The healing of the deaf man (vv. 31-37).
31) And again he departed from the territories of Tyre and came through Sidon to the Sea of Galilee through the midst of the regions of Decapolis. 32) And they brought him (a man who was) deaf and had a speech impediment, and they begged him to lay his fingers on him. 33) And, taking him away from the crowd privately, he thrust his fingers into his ears, and, after spitting, he touched his tongue, 34) and, looking up to heaven, he sighed deeply, and said to him, "Ephphatha!" that is, "Be opened!" 35) And his hearing powers were opened, and the impediment of his tongue was loosened, and he spoke normally. 36) Then, he gave them orders to tell no one; but the more he commanded them, so much the more widely they proclaimed (it). 37) Now, they were astonished beyond all measure, saying, "He has done all (things) well; he even makes the deaf hear and the dumb speak."
CHAPTER 8.53) And having got across to the land, they came into Gennesaret and came to anchor nearby. 54) And, when they got out of the boat, (people) recognised him at once, 55) and ran around that whole region, and began to carry about those who were sick on their mattresses to where they heard that he was. 56) And wherever he went into villages or into cities or into the countryside, they would lay the sick in the market places, and would entreat him that they might touch the hem of his garment; and whoever touched him was healed.
CHAPTER 7.
The traditions of the Elders exposed (vv. 1-13).
1) Now, the Pharisees and some of the scribes, having come from Jerusalem, gathered around him, 2) and saw that some of his disciples were eating their bread with defiled hands, that is unwashed (ones). -- 3) for the Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat, unless they wash their hands up to their elbows, holding fast to the tradition of the Elders, 4) and, (when returning) from the market-place, they do not eat unless they have cleansed themselves, and there are many other (observances) which they have had handed down (to them) to keep, (such as) the washing of cups, and pitchers, and copper vessels. -- 5) And the Pharisees inquired of him, "Why do your disciples not conduct themselves in accordance with the tradition of the Elders, but eat their bread with unclean hands." 6) But he said to them, "Well did Isaiah prophesy about you hypocrites, when he wrote, 'This people honours me with their lips, but their heart is far removed from me; 7) and they worship me to no avail, because they teach (as) doctrines the commandments of men.' (vid. Isaiah 29) 13) 8) (For) setting aside the commandment of God, you hold fast to the tradition of men." 9) Then, he went on to say to them, "Full well do you reject the commandment of God, in order to observe your tradition; 10) for Moses said, 'Honour your father and your mother,' (vid. Exodus 20.12; Deuteronomy 5.16) and 'Let him who reviles his father or his mother be put to death;' (vid. Exodus 21.16) 11) but you say, 'If a man says to his father or his mother, "Whatever benefit you may get from me (is) Corban, that is a Gift (dedicated to God)," '12) (and then) you no longer allow him to do anything for his father or his mother, 13) (thus) invalidating the word of God by your tradition which you handed down; and many such (things) closely resembling (this) you do."
Defilement comes from the heart (vv. 14-23).
14) Then, calling the crowd to (him) again, he said to them, "Listen to me and understand! 15) There is nothing from outside of a man, which, if it passes into him, can defile him; but the things which proceed out of a man are the things which defile a man." 16) --
17) Now, when he had entered a house away from the crowd, his disciples asked him about the parable. 18) So he said to them, "Are you also without perception like (them)? Aren't you aware that nothing that passes into a man from outside can defile him, 19) because it does not go into his heart, but into his belly, and then it passes out into the latrine, (thus) making all foods clean?" 20) However, he said, "That which comes out of a man, that (is what) defiles a man; 21) for from within, out of the minds of men, evil thoughts proceed: fornications, thefts, murders, 22) adulteries, covetings, wicked acts, deceit, wantonness, an evil eye, blasphemies, pride (and) folly; 23) all these evil things come from within, and (they are the things which) defile a man."
III. JESUS' JOURNEYS OUTSIDE GALILEE (Ch. 7.24 - 10.52).
The faith of the Syro-Phoenician woman (vv. 24-30).
24) From there he arose and went into the territories of Tyre and Sidon. And he entered a house, and did not want anyone to know, yet he could not escape notice; 25) but, as soon as a woman whose little daughter had an unclean spirit heard about him, she came and fell down at his feet; 26) the woman was Greek, a Syro-Phoenician by birth; and she begged him to expel the demon from her daughter. 27) But he said to her, "First let the children be satisfied, for it is not right to take the children's bread and throw (it) to the dogs." 28) But she answered and said to him, "Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs under the table eat from the little children's crumbs." 29) Then, he said to her, "Because of this saying (of yours), go your way! The demon has gone out of your daughter." 30) And she went away to her house and found the little child lying on her bed, and the demon gone.
The healing of the deaf man (vv. 31-37).
31) And again he departed from the territories of Tyre and came through Sidon to the Sea of Galilee through the midst of the regions of Decapolis. 32) And they brought him (a man who was) deaf and had a speech impediment, and they begged him to lay his fingers on him. 33) And, taking him away from the crowd privately, he thrust his fingers into his ears, and, after spitting, he touched his tongue, 34) and, looking up to heaven, he sighed deeply, and said to him, "Ephphatha!" that is, "Be opened!" 35) And his hearing powers were opened, and the impediment of his tongue was loosened, and he spoke normally. 36) Then, he gave them orders to tell no one; but the more he commanded them, so much the more widely they proclaimed (it). 37) Now, they were astonished beyond all measure, saying, "He has done all (things) well; he even makes the deaf hear and the dumb speak."
The feeding of the four thousand (vv. 1-9).
1) In those days, when there was again a large crowd and they had nothing to eat, he summoned the disciples and said to them, "I am feeling compassion for the crowd, because they have already remained near me for three days and have nothing to eat; and, if I should send them off to their home, they will pass out on the way; and some of them have come from afar." 4) And his disciples answered him, "How can anyone feed these (people) with bread here in such a deserted spot?" 5) Then, he asked them, "How many loaves do you have?" And they said, "Seven." 6) Then, he commanded he crowd to sit down on the ground; and, taking the seven loaves, he gave thanks, and broke (them) and gave (them) to his disciples to serve, and they served (them) to the crowd. 7) And they had a few small fishes also; and he blessed them, and told (them) to serve these too. 8) So, they ate and were filled, and they took up seven large baskets of fragments that were left over. 9) And there were around four thousand (people). Then, he sent them away.
The Pharisees demand a sign (vv. 10-13).
10) Immediately, he boarded the boat with his disciples, and came to the region of Dalmanutha. 11) Then, the Pharisees came out and began to dispute with him, seeking from him a sign from heaven and putting him to the test. 12) So, sighing deeply in his spirit, he said, "Why does this generation seek a sign? Most assuredly I say, no sign shall be given to this generation." 13) Then, he left them, and embarking once more, he went off to the other side.
The leaven of the Pharisees and of Herod (vv. 14-21).
14) And they forgot to take any bread, and they had no(thing) with them in the boat except one loaf. 15) And he gave them express orders, saying, "Keep your eyes open, (and) look for the leaven (i.e. yeast) of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod." 16) And they were arguing with one another, because they had no bread. 17) Noting (this), he said to them, "Why are you arguing because you have no bread? Do you not yet perceive, or understand? Do you (still) have closed minds? 18) Though you have eyes, you do not see, (do you)? Though you have ears, you do not hear, (do you)? And don't you remember, 19) when I broke the five loaves for the five thousand (men), how many baskets full of fragments you took up?" They told him, "Twelve." 20) "When (I broke) seven (loaves) for the four thousand (men), how many hampers full of fragments did you take up?" And they told him, "Seven." 21) And he said to them, "You still don't understand, (do you)?"
The healing of a blind man at Bethsaida (vv. 22-26).
22) Now they came to Bethsaida, and they brought him a blind (man) and begged him to touch him. 23) And they took him by the hand and brought him out of the village, and, spitting upon his eyes, he laid his hands upon him and asked him, "Do you see anything?" And he looked up and said, "I see men, for I see (them), like trees, walking about." 25) Then again he laid his hands on his eyes, and he saw clearly, and he was restored and was able to see everything distinctly. 26) Then, he sent him off to his home, saying, "Don't go into the village!"
Peter's profession of faith (vv. 27-30).
27) Now, Jesus and his disciples went out into the villages of Caesarea Philippi; and on the way he began to ask his disciples, saying to them, "Whom do men say that I am?" 28) Then, they told him, saying, "John the Baptist, and others Elijah, and still others one of the prophets." 29) So, he asked them, "But whom do you say that I am?" In reply, Peter said to him, "You are the Christ." 30) Then, he warned them not to tell anyone about him.
Jesus' death foretold (vv. 31-33).
31) And he began to teach them that the Son of man must undergo much suffering, and be rejected by the elders and the chief priests and the scribes, and be killed, and rise again after three days. 32) He spoke the message openly. And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. 33) But he, turning around and seeing his disciples, rebuked Peter and said, "Get behind me, Satan, for you have in mind not the things of God but the things of men."
The cost of true discipleship (vv. 34-38, Ch. 9. v.1).
34) And he summoned the crowd together with his disciples, and said to them, "If anyone wishes to come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. 35) For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, and whoever will lose his life for my sake and (for the sake) of the Gospel will save it. 36) For what does it benefit a man to gain the whole world, and forfeit his soul? 37) For what (thing) will a man give in exchange for his soul? 38) For whoever should be ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of man will also be ashamed of him, when he comes with the holy angels in the glory of his Father."
CHAPTER 9.
1) And he went on to say to them, "Truly I tell you that there are some of those standing here who will not taste death at all until they see the kingdom of God having come in power."
The Transfiguration of Jesus (vv. 2-8).
2) And after six days, Jesus took along (with him) Peter and James and John, and he brought them on to a high mountain privately by themselves. And he was transfigured in front of them, 3) and his clothing became glistening white, exceedingly so, such as no launderer on earth could whiten (them). 4) Then, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, and they were talking with Jesus. 5) And, in answer, Peter said to Jesus, "Rabbi, it is good for us to be here; so let us make three tents, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah." 6) In fact, he did not know how he should reply, for they had become afraid. 7) And a cloud came, casting its shadow upon them, and a voice came out of the cloud, (saying), "This is my beloved son, listen to him!" 8) Then, suddenly, when they looked around, they saw no one with them any longer, except Jesus only.
The question of Elijah (vv. 9-13).
9) And, as they were coming down from the mountain, he gave them strict orders that they should tell no one what (things) they had seen, until after the Son of man had risen from the dead. 10) They kept this instruction, but debated among themselves what the rising from the dead should mean. 11) And they began to question him, saying, "Why do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?" 12) Then, he said to them, "Indeed, Elijah does come first, and restores everything, but how is it written about the Son of man that he should undergo much suffering and be treated with contempt? 13) But I tell you that Elijah has, in fact, come, and they did to him all that they wanted (to do), according as it is written about him."
The healing of a boy with an unclean spirit (vv. 14-29).
14) Now, when they came to the (other) disciples, they saw a large crowd around them, and scribes arguing with them. 15) But as soon as the whole crowd saw him, they were utterly amazed and ran to (him) and greeted him. 16) And he asked them, "Why are you arguing with them?" 17) Then, one of the crowd answered him, "Teacher, I brought my son to you, as he has a mute spirit; 18) and, whenever it seizes him, it dashes him to the ground, and he foams (at the mouth) and gnashes his teeth, and he becomes paralysed; and I told your disciples to expel it, but they were unable (to do so)." 19) In reply, he said to them, "O faithless generation, how long shall I be with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring him to me !" 20) And they brought him to him. And, when he saw him, the spirit immediately convulsed him, and, falling on the ground, he rolled around, foaming (at the mouth). 21) And he asked his father, "How long is it that this has been happening to him?" And he said, "From childhood. 22) And many times it has cast him both into fire and into water, in order to destroy him; but, if you can (do) anything, have compassion on us and help us." 23) Then, Jesus said to him, "That (expression), 'If you can,' (why) all (things) are possible to one who believes." 24) Immediately, the father cried out and said, "I believe, help (me) in my unbelief."
25) When Jesus saw that a crowd was running together towards (him), he rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to it, "(You) dumb and deaf spirit, I command you, come out of him and enter into him no more. 26) Then, after crying out and convulsing greatly, it came out of (him), and he became as though (he were) dead, so that most of them said that he had died. 27) But Jesus took hold of his hand and raised him up, and he arose. 28) And, when he had come into the house, the disciples asked him privately, "Why couldn't we have expelled it?" 29) Then, he said to them, "This kind (of spirit) can come out by no means other than through prayer."
Jesus again foretells his death and resurrection (vv. 30-32).
30) They departed from there, and proceeded through Galilee, but he did not want that anyone should know (that); 31) for he was teaching his disciples and saying to them, "The Son of man is to be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill him, and, when he has been killed, he will rise again after three days." 32) But they did not know the saying, and were afraid to question him.
The disciples argue over who is the greatest (vv. 33-37).
33) And they came to Capernaum. And, when he was in the house, he asked them, "Why were you arguing on the road?" 34) But they kept silent, for they had been arguing among themselves on the way (about) who (was) the greater. 35) So, he sat down and called the Twelve, and said to them, "If any (man) wants to be first, he shall be last of all, and servant of all." 36) Then, he took a little child and set him in the midst of them, and, taking him in his arms, he said to them, 37) "Whoever receives one of these little children in my name, receives me; and whoever receives me, does not receive me, but the (one) who sent me."
Anyone not against us is for us (vv. 38-41).
38) John said to him, "Teacher, we saw someone casting out demons in your name, and we tried to stop him, because he was not accompanying us." 39) But Jesus said, "Do not prevent him, for there is no one who will do a mighty work in my name who will be quickly able to speak ill of me. 40) For (he) who is not against us is for us.
Generosity shown to Christ's disciples (v. 41).
41) For whoever gives you a cup of water in my name because you are Christ's, most assuredly I tell you that he will by no means lose his reward.
Temptations to sin (vv. 42-48).
42) But whoever will cause one of these little (ones) who believe (in me) to stumble, it would be better for him, if a millstone worked by a donkey were hung around his neck, and he were flung into the sea.
43) And, if your hand should cause you to stumble, cut it off; it is better that you go into life maimed than you go with two hands into Gehenna, into the inextinguishable fire. 44) -- 45) And if your foot causes you to stumble, cut it off; it is better that you go into life lame than that with two feet you are pitched into Gehenna. 46) -- 47) And if your eye causes you to stumble, pluck it out; it is better that you go the kingdom of God one-eyed than that with two eyes you are cast into Gehenna, 48) where 'their maggot shall not die nor shall their fire be quenched.' (vid. Isaiah 66.24)
Have salt in yourselves (vv. 49-50).
49) For everyone will be salted with fire. 50) Salt (is) fine; but, if the salt has become flavourless, how will you season it? Have salt in yourselves, and be at peace with one another.
CHAPTER 10.
Jesus' teaching about marriage and divorce (vv. 1-12).
1) Then, he arose from there and went into the territory of Judea and across the Jordan. 2) Now, Pharisees came to (him), and, in order to test him, asked him whether it was lawful for a man to divorce his wife. 3) And, in answer, he said to them, "What did Moses command you?" 4) And they said, "Moses permitted a certificate of abandonment to be written, and (then) a divorce." (vid. Deuteronomy 24.3) 5) But Jesus said to them, "He wrote you this commandment out of regard for your hardheartedness; 6) but from the beginning of creation he made them male and female (vid. Genesis 1.27); 7) on this account a man will leave his father and mother [and will be joined to his wife], 8) and the two will become one flesh, (vid. Genesis 2.24) so that they are no longer two but one flesh; 9) Therefore, what God has joined together, let no man put asunder!" 10) And (when they were) in the house, the disciples asked him again about this (matter). 11) And he said to them, "Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her, 12) and, if a woman divorces her husband, and marries another, she commits adultery."
Jesus blesses the little children (vv. 13-16).
13) And (people) were bringing him little children, so that he might touch them, but the disciples reprimanded them. 14) Seeing this, Jesus became angry and said to them, "Allow the little children to come to me! Do not stop them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 15) Truly I say to you, whoever does not welcome the kingdom of God like a little child, will by no means enter it." 16) And he took them in his arms and blessed (them), laying his hands upon them.
The rich young man (vv. 17-22).
17) And, as he was going out into the way, one (man) ran up to him, and, falling on his knees, asked him, "Good Teacher, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life? 18) Jesus said to him, "Why do you call me good? No one (is) good, save one, (namely) God. 19) You know the commandments: 'Do not murder,' 'Do not commit adultery,' 'Do not steal,' 'Do not bear false witness' (vid. Exodus 20.13-16; Deuteronomy 5.17-20), 'Do not defraud' (vid. Deuteronomy 24.14), 'Honour your father and mother' (vid. Exodus 20.12; Deuteronomy 5.16)." 20) And he said, "Teacher, I have observed all these (things) from my youth." 21) As he looked at him, Jesus felt love for him, and said to him, "One (thing) you lack: go, sell all that you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me!" 22) But he looked shocked at this remark, and went off grieving, for he was in possession of much property.
The danger of riches (vv. 23-31).
23) And, looking around, Jesus said to his disciples, "How difficult it will be for those with money to enter the kingdom of God!" 24) And the disciples were amazed at his words. But, in response, Jesus again said to them, "Children, how hard it is [for those who trust in riches] to enter the kingdom of God! 25) It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich (man) to enter the kingdom of God." 26) And they were exceedingly astonished and said to him, "Who, then, can be saved?" 27) Looking straight at them, Jesus said, "With men (it is) impossible, but not with God, for with God all (things are) possible (vid. Job 42.2)." 28) Peter began to say to him, "Look, we have left everything and have followed you." 29) Jesus said, "Truly I tell you, there is no one who has left this house, or brother, or sister. or mother, or father, or children, or fields for my sake and for the sake of the gospel, but he will receive a hundred times more now at this time, houses, and, brothers, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and fields with persecutions, and in the age to come life everlasting. 31) But many (who are) first will be last, and the last first."
Jesus foretells his death for the third time (vv. 32-34).
32) Now, they were on the road going up to Jerusalem, and Jesus was walking ahead of them, and they were astonished, and those who followed (him) were afraid. And again he took the Twelve aside, and began to tell them the things which were going to befall him, (saying), "Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of man will be delivered to the chief priests and the scribes, and they will sentence him to death and then deliver him to the Gentiles, 34) and they will mock him, and spit on him, and scourge him, and put (him) to death, and, after three days, he will be brought back to life."
The sons of Zebedee make their request (vv. 35-40).
35) And James and John, the two sons of Zebedee, came up to him, and said to him, "Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we shall ask of you." 36) Then, he said to them, "What do you want me to do for you?" 37) And they said to him, "Grant us that we may sit, one at your right (hand), and one at your left (hand), in your glory. 38) But Jesus said to them, "You don't know what you are asking; are you able to drink the cup which I am drinking, or to be baptised (with) the baptism (with) which I am being baptised?" 39) They said to him, "We are able." Then, Jesus said to them, "The cup which I am drinking you will drink, and (with) the baptism (with) which I am being baptised, you will be baptised. 40) But the seats at my right (hand) or at my left, are not for me to give, but (they belong to those) for whom they have been made ready."
The sacrifice of service (vv. 41-45).
41) When the (other) ten disciples heard (about their request), they began to get angry with James and John. 42) But Jesus called them to (him) and said to them, "You know that those who appear to rule the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great (ones) wield authority over them. 43) It is not so among you; but whoever wants to be great among you shall be your servant, 44) and whoever wants to be first among you shall be slave to all; 45) For even the Son of man came not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life (as) a ransom for all."
The healing of blind Bartimaeus (vv. 46-52).
46) And they came to Jericho. But, as he was leaving Jericho, together with his disciples and a considerable crowd, Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, a blind beggar, was sitting beside the road. 47) When he heard that it was Jesus the Nazarene, he began to cry out and say, "Jesus, son of David, have mercy on me!" 48) Then, many (people) told him sternly that he should be quiet; but he kept on crying out all the more, "Son of David, have mercy on me!" 49) So Jesus stopped, and said, "Call him!" And they called the blind (man), saying to him, "Take courage, get up, he is calling you!" 50) Then, casting off his cloak, he sprang up and came to Jesus. 51) And, answering him, Jesus said, "What do you want me to do for you?" The blind (man) said to him, "That I may recover my sight." 52) Then, Jesus said to him, "Go your way, your faith has made you well." And immediately he regained his sight, and began to follow him on the road.
IV. THE JERUSALEM MINISTRY (Ch. 11.1 - 13.37).
CHAPTER 11.
The colt of an ass is discovered (vv. 1-6).
1) Now, when they draw near to Jerusalem, to Bethphage and Bethany at the Mount of Olives, he sends two of his disciples, 2) and says to them, "Go into the village which (is) opposite to you, and, as soon as you enter it you will find a colt tied, on which no man has yet sat; untie it and bring (it to me). 3) And, if anyone should say to you, 'Why are you doing this,' say, 'The Lord has need of it,' and at once he will send it back here." 4) So, they went off and found a colt tied up at a door outside on the street, and they untie it. 5) But some of those standing there said to them, "What are you doing, untying the colt?" 6) Then, they said to them just as Jesus had said; and they let them go.
Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem (vv. 7-11).
7) Then, they bring the colt to Jesus, and throw their garments upon it, and he sat on it. 8) And many (people) spread their garments on the road, and others (were) cutting branches from the fields. 9) And those who went in front and those who were following cried out, "Hosanna! Blessed (is) he who comes in the name of the Lord! (vid. Psalms 118.25-26) Blessed (is) the coming kingdom of our father David! Hosanna (vid. Psalms 118.25) in the highest!" And he entered the temple in Jerusalem; he looked around at everything, and, as the hour was already late, he went out to Bethany with the Twelve.
The barren fig-tree is cursed (vv. 12-14).
12) Then, on the next day, when they had come out from Bethany with the Twelve. Then, on the next day, when they had come out from Bethany, he felt hungry. 13) And, seeing from afar off a fig-tree that had leaves, he went (to see) if he could perhaps find something on it, but, when he came to it, he found nothing except leaves, for it was not the season for figs. 14) So, in response, he said to it, "May no one ever eat fruit from you any longer." And his disciples heard (it).
The expulsion of the money-changers from the Temple (vv. 15-18).
15) Now they came to Jerusalem. Then, having entered the temple, he began to expel those selling and those buying in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money-changers and the seats of those who sold the doves. 16) And he would not allow anyone to carry a vessel through the temple, 17) and he kept teaching and saying, "Is it not written, 'My house will be called a house of prayer for all the nations' (vid. Isaiah 56.7)? But you have made it a den of robbers (vid. Jeremiah 7.11)." 18) And the chief priests and the scribes heard (it), and began to seek how they might destroy him; for they were afraid of him, for all the crowd was astonished at his teaching.
Lesson from the withered fig-tree (vv. 19-26).
19) And, whenever it was getting late, they would go out of the city. 20) And, as they passed by early in the morning, they saw the fig-tree withered from the roots. 21) And Peter, remembering (it), says to him, "Rabbi, look! the fig-tree that you cursed has withered away." And, in reply, Jesus says to them, "Have faith in God; 23) Truly I say to you that whoever may tell this mountain, 'Be lifted up and thrown into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart that what he says will happen, he will have (it so). 24) Therefore, I tell you, everything that you pray and ask for, believe that you received them, and you will have (them). 25) And, whenever you stand to pray, forgive whatever you have against anyone, so that your Father, who (is) in heaven, may forgive you your trespasses." 26) --
The authority of Jesus is questioned (vv. 27-33).
27) And again they come into Jerusalem. And as Jesus is walking about in the temple, the chief priests and the scribes and the elders come to him, 28) and they said to him, "By what authority do you do these (things)? Or who gave you such authority to do these (things)." 29) Jesus said to them, "I will ask you one question, and, should you answer me, I shall also tell you by what authority I do these (things). 30) The baptism of John, was it from heaven or from men? Answer me!" 31) And they reasoned among themselves, saying, "If we should say, 'From heaven,' he will say, 'Why, then, did you not believe him?' 32) But dare we say, 'From men' ?" - they feared the crowd, for they all held that John had really been a prophet. 33) So, in reply to Jesus' (question), they say, "We do not know." Then Jesus says to them, "Neither am I telling you by what authority I do these (things)."
CHAPTER 12.
The parable of the vineyard and the wicked tenants (vv. 1-12).
1) And he began to speak to them in parables: "A man planted a vineyard, and put a fence around (it), and dug a trough for the wine-press, and built a tower, and he rented it out to tenant farmers and went abroad. 2) Now, at the appointed time, he sent a slave to the farmers to get from the farmers (his share) of the fruits of the vineyard; 3) but they took him and beat (him) and sent (him) away empty-handed. 4) And again he sent another slave to them; and they struck him on the head and insulted (him). 5) And he sent another, and they killed (him), and many others, some of whom they thrashed and others of whom they put to death. 6) He still had one, his beloved son; he sent him to them last, saying, 'They will respect my son.' 7) But those farmers said to one another, 'This is the heir; come, let us kill him and the inheritance will be ours.' 8) Then, they took him and killed him, and threw (him) out of the vineyard. 9) What will the owner of the vineyard do? He will come and destroy the farmers, and will give the vineyard to others. 10) Haven't you ever read this (passage of) scripture, 'The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief corner(-stone); 11) this is the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes'."
12) So, they began seeking (how) to seize him, but they feared the crowd, for they knew that he spoke the parable with them in mind. So, they left him and went away.
Giving Caesar his due (vv. 13-17).
13) And they sent to him some of the Pharisees and of the Herodians in order to entrap him with words. 14) And, on their arrival, they say to him, "Teacher, we know that you are truthful and (that) no one is of particular importance to you, for you do not look upon men's outward appearance, but you teach the way of God in line with truth. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not? 15) Should we pay, or should we not pay?" But he, being aware of their hypocrisy, said to them, "Why are you testing me? Bring me a denarius, so I may see (it)." 16) So, they brought (one). Then, he says to them, "Whose is this image and inscription?" And they said to him, "Caesar's." 17) Jesus said, "Give back to Caesar the (things that are) Caesar's, and to God the (things that are) God's." And they marvelled at him.
A question about the resurrection of the dead (vv. 18-27).
18) Now there come to him some Sadducees, who say there is no resurrection, and they questioned him, saying, 19) "Teacher, Moses wrote to us that, if any man's brother should die and leave a wife behind (him) but leave no child, that his brother should take his wife and raise up offspring for his brother (vid. Genesis 38.8; Deuteronomy 25.5). 20) There were seven brothers; and the first took a wife, but, when he died, he left no offspring; 21) then the second took her and died, leaving no offspring behind (him), and the third likewise; 22) and the seven left no children; last of all the woman died also. 23) In the resurrection, among them whose wife will she be?" For (all) seven had her (as) wife. 24) Jesus said to them, "Do you not err for this (reason), because you do not know the scriptures or the power of God? 25) For when they rise from the dead, they neither marry nor are they given in marriage, but they are like angels in heaven. 26) But about the dead, that they are raised, did you not read in the book of Moses, (in the passage) about the thornbush, how God spoke to him, saying, 'I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob' (vid. Exodus 3.6,15,16). 27) He is God, not of the dead but of the living; you are much mistaken."
The two great commandments (vv. 28-34).
28) Now, one of the scribes who had come forward and heard them disputing, knowing that he had answered them well, asked him, "Which commandment is first of all?" 29) Jesus replied, "The first is 'Hear, (O) Israel, the Lord our God is one Lord, 30) and you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength' (vid. Deuteronomy 6.4-5). (31) The second (is) this, 'You shall love your neighbour as yourself ' (vid. Leviticus 19.18) There is no other commandment greater than these." 32) The scribe said to him, "In truth, teacher, you have spoken well, (to say) that he is one (vid. Deuteronomy 6.4) and (that) there is no other save him (vid. Deuteronomy 4.35; Isaiah 45.21), 33) and (that) to love him with all one's heart, and with all one's understanding, and with all one's strength, and to love one's neighbour as oneself (vid. Deuteronomy 6.5; Joshua 22.5) is (worth) much more than all the whole burnt offerings and sacrifices (one can think of)." 34) Then, Jesus, realising that he had answered with understanding, said to him, "You are not far from the kingdom of God." But no one dared to question him any more.
Is Christ the son of David? (vv. 35-37).
35) However, by way of a reply, Jesus said, as he was teaching in the temple, "How (is it that) the scribes say that the Christ is the son of David? 36) David, himself, under (the influence of) the Holy Spirit, said, 'The Lord said to my lord, "Sit at my right (hand), until I put your enemies beneath your feet" ' (vid. Psalms 110.1). 37) David, himself, calls him 'Lord', so how can he be his son?"
The denouncing of the scribes (vv. 37-40).
The widow's mite (vv. 41-44).
41) And he sat down facing the contribution box, and saw how the multitude cast money into the box; and many (who were) rich threw in many (coins); 42) now, a poor widow came and threw in two small copper coins, which make up a penny. 43) And he summoned his disciples and said to them, "Truly I tell you that this poor widow threw in more than all of those dropping (money) into the contribution box; 43) for they all dropped (money) in out of their surplus, but she, out of her poverty, dropped in all that she had, the whole of her livelihood."
CHAPTER 13.
The destruction of the Temple foretold (vv. 1-2).
1) And, as he is going out of the temple, one of his disciples says to him, "Teacher, see what great stones and what great buildings (there are here)." 2) but Jesus said to him, "Do you see these great buildings? (There will) not (be one) stone left here upon (another) stone, which will not be thrown down."
The beginning of sorrows (vv. 3-13).
3) Then, as he was sitting on the Mount of Olives overlooking the Temple, Peter, and James, and John and Andrew asked him privately, 4) "Tell us when will these (things) be, and what (will be) the sign when all these (things) are about to be fulfilled?" 5) Jesus started to say to them, "See that no one leads you astray. 6) (For) many will come, making use of my name, saying, 'I am (he)', and they will lead many astray. 7) When you hear of wars and reports of wars, do not be disturbed; (for these) must happen, but the end (is) not yet. 8) For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom (vid. Isaiah 19.2), there will be earthquakes in various places, (and) there will be famines; these (things are) the beginning of great distress.
9) "But look out for yourselves; (for) they will deliver you up to councils and you will be beaten in synagogues, and you will be made to stand before governors and kings for my sake as a witness to them. 10) And the gospel must first be preached to all the nations. 11) And, when they lead you off and deliver (you) up, do not be concerned about what you will say, but whatever will be given to you at that hour, say this, for you are not the (ones) speaking, but the Holy Spirit (is). 12) Then brother will deliver up brother to death, and father his child, and children will rise up against parents (vid. Micah 7.6) and have them put to death; 13) And you will be hated by all (men) on account of my name. But he who endures to the end, the same will be saved.
The great tribulation (vv. 14-23).
14) "But when you see the abomination of desolation (vid. Daniel 9.27, 11.31, 12.11; I Maccabees 1.54) standing where it ought not - let the reader be mindful - then let those in Judea flee to the mountains, 15) do not let the (man who is) on the roof (of the house) come down, nor let him go inside to take anything out of his house, 16) and do not let the (man who is) in the field return to the (things he has left) behind to pick up his cloak. 17) And woe to those (women) who are with child, and to those who are suckling (a baby) in those days. 18) And pray that it (i.e. their flight) may not happen in the winter; 19) for those days will (see) an affliction of a kind such as has not occurred from the beginning of the creation, which God created, until the present (vid. Daniel 12.1), and it will never happen (again). 20) In fact, if the Lord had not shortened the days, no flesh would have been saved at all; but, on account of the elect, whom he chose, he did cut short the days.
21) "Then, if anyone tells you, 'Look, here (is) the Christ, see, there (he is),' do not believe (it); 22) For false Christs and false prophets will arise and will give signs and wonders (vid. Deuteronomy 13.1-3) in order to lead astray, if possible, (even) the chosen (ones). 23) But you watch out! (For) I have foretold all (things) to you.
The coming of the Son of man (vv. 24-27).
24) But in those days, after that affliction, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, 25) and the stars will be falling from heaven, and the powers which (are) in the heavens will be made to shake (vid. Isaiah 13.10; Ezekiel 32.7-8; Joel 2.10, 2.31, 3.15). 26) Then, they will see the Son of man coming in the clouds with great power and glory (vid. Daniel 7.13-14); 27) and then he will send out his angels and will gather together his chosen (ones) from the four winds, (and) from the ends of the earth to the extremity of the sky (vid. Deuteronomy 30.4; Zechariah 2.6).
The parable of the fig-tree (vv. 28-31).
28) Now, learn this parable from the fig-tree: as soon as its young branch grows tender and produces leaves you know that summer is near; 29) so you also, when you see these (things) come to pass, know that it is near, at the doors. 30) Truly I tell you that this generation will by no means pass away until all these (things) should happen. 31) Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.
The unknown day and hour (vv. 32-37).
"But of that day or (of) that hour no one knows, neither the angels in heaven nor the Son, but only the Father. 33) Keep watch, stay on the alert, for you do not know when is the appointed time; 34) (It is) like a man travelling abroad leaving his house and giving responsibility for their work to each (one) of his servants, but he commanded the door-keeper to be watchful. 35) So, keep awake, for you do not know when the lord of the house is coming, whether in the evening, or at mid-night, or at cock-crow, or early in the morning, lest, coming suddenly, he might find you sleeping; 36) but what I say to you, I say to all, keep on the watch!"
V. PASSION AND RESURRECTION (Ch. 11.1 - 16.8).
CHAPTER 14.
The plot to kill Jesus (vv. 1-2).
1) Now the (Feast of) the Passover and the (Feast of) Unleavened Bread was two days away. And the chief priests and the scribes sought how they might seize him by a crafty device and kill (him). 2) For they kept on saying, "Not during the Festival, so that there should not be a riot of the people at that time."
The anointing at Bethany (vv. 3-9).
3) When he was in Bethany, at the home of Simon the leper, (and,) as he was reclining (at table), a woman came with an alabaster (case) of perfumed oil, genuine nard, very costly, (and,) breaking open the alabaster (case), she poured (it) over his head. 4) But there were some expressing indignation among themselves, (saying) for what (reason) has this waste of the perfumed oil occurred? 5) For this perfumed oil could have been sold for upwards of three hundred denarii, to be given to the poor; 6) But Jesus said, "Leave her alone! Why do you cause her trouble? She did a fine deed on my behalf; 7) For you have the poor with you always (vid. Deuteronomy 15.11) and, whenever you want to, you can always do them good, but you will not always have me; 8) she did what she could; she undertook beforehand to anoint my body with a view to laying (me) out for burial. 9) Truly I say to you, wherever the gospel may be preached throughout the whole world, what this (woman) has done will be spoken of as a memorial of her."
Judas conspires to betray Jesus (vv. 10-11).
10) Then, Judas Iscariot, who (was) one of the Twelve, went off to the chief priests, in order to betray him to them. 11) When they heard (this), they rejoiced, and promised to give him money. And he sought how he might conveniently deliver him.
Preparations for the Passover supper (vv. 12-16).
12) Now on the first day of the (Feast of) Unleavened Bread, when they were sacrificing the Passover (lamb) (vid. Exodus 12.6,14-20) his disciples said to him, "Where do you want (us) to go, so we may prepare for you to eat the Passover (meal)?" 13) So, he sends off two of his disciples and says to them, "Go into the city, and a man, carrying a pitcher of water will meet you; follow him, 14) and, wherever he goes inside, say to the master of the house, 'The Teacher says, "Where is my guest-room, where I may eat the Passover (meal) with my disciples?" ' 15) And he, himself, will show you a large upper room, furnished and made ready; and there prepare for us." 16) So, the disciples went out and came into the city, and found (things) just as he had told them, and they prepared the Passover (meal).
Jesus foretells Judas' treachery (vv. 17-21).
17) And, when it was evening, he comes with the Twelve. 18) And, as they were reclining (at table) and eating, Jesus said, "Truly I tell you that one of you who is eating with me will betray me (vid. Psalms 41.9). 19) They began to be sorrowful and to say to him one by one, "Surely (it is) not I, (is it)?" 20) Then, he said to them, "(It is) one of the Twelve, who (is) dipping with me into the common dish; indeed, the Son of man is going as it is written about him, but woe to that man, by whom the Son of man is betrayed; (it would be) better for him, if that man had not been born."
The institution of the Eucharist (vv. 22-26).
22) And, as they were eating, he took bread, and, having blessed (it), he broke (it) and gave (it) to them, and said, "Take, (eat), this is my body." 23) And took a cup, and having offered a prayer of thanksgiving, he gave (it) to them, and they all drank from it. 24) And he said to them, "This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many. 25). Truly I tell you that I shall no more drink of the fruit of the vine until that day, when I drink it anew in the kingdom of God." 26) And, after they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.
Peter's denial foretold (vv. 27-31).
27) Then, Jesus says to them, "You will all be made to stumble, because it is written, 'I will strike the shepherd and the sheep will be scattered abroad;' 28) but, after I have been raised up, I will go before you into Galilee." 29) But Peter said to him, "Even if all (the others) are made to stumble, yet I (will) not. 30) Then, Jesus say to him, "Truly I say to you that you, today, on this very night, before the cock crows twice, will deny me thrice." 31) But he (i.e. Peter) spoke with great emphasis: "If I must die together with you, yet I will not deny you," and they all spoke likewise also.
Gethsemane (vv. 32-42).
32) So, they come to a place, the name of which (is) Gethsemane, and he says to his disciples, "Sit down here, while I pray." 33) And he took Peter, and James and John along with him, and he started to be distressed and full of anxiety. 34) And he says to them, "My soul is sad (vid. Psalms 42.5), even unto death (vid. Jonah 4.9); stay here and keep watch!" 35) And he went forward a little (way) and fell on the ground, and began to pray that, if it were possible, the hour might pass away from him, 36) and he went on to say, "Abba, Father, to you all (things are) possible; (please) remove this cup from me; yet not what I want, but what you (want)." 37) And he came and found them sleeping, and he says to Peter, "Simon, are you asleep? Did you not have the strength to stay awake for one hour? 38) Keep alert and pray that you do not come into temptation; indeed, the spirit (is) willing, but the flesh (is) weak. 39) And again he went away and prayed, saying the same words. 40) And again he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were heavy and they did not know what to say in reply to him. 41) And he comes a third (time) and says to them, "Go on sleeping for the (time) that is left and take your rest; it is enough; the hour is come. Behold, the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. 42) Arise, let us go! Look, he who betrays me is nigh!
43) And, immediately, while he was still speaking, there came Judas, one of the Twelve, and, with him, a crowd with swords and wooden clubs (sent) by the chief priests and the scribes and the elders. 44) Now, he who betrayed him had given them a signal, saying whomever it is that I shall kiss, seize him and lead (him) away safely. 45) And, immediately, after he has come, he goes up to him and says, "Rabbi," and kissed him. 46) And they laid their hands upon him and seized him. 47) And a certain one of those who were standing by, drew his sword and struck the servant of the chief priests and cut off his ear. 48) Then, in response, Jesus said to them, "Have you come out to arrest me with swords and clubs as though (you are going) against a robber? 49) I was with you daily in the temple, teaching, and you didn't seize me; but (this is) so that the scriptures may be fulfilled."
The young man who fled (vv. 50-52).
50) Then, they all left him and fled.
51) But a young man followed him, having thrown a linen cloth over his naked (body), and they try to seize him, 52) but he, leaving behind his linen garment, escaped naked.
Jesus' trial before the Sanhedrin (vv. 53-65).
53) And they led Jesus away to the High Priest (i.e. Caiaphas), and all the chief priests and the elders and the scribes gather together. 54) And Peter followed him from a distance, as far as the courtyard of the High Priest, and he was sitting with the attendants and warming himself before the brightness (of the fire). 55) Then, the High Priest and the whole of the Sanhedrin were looking for testimony against Jesus in order to put him to death, but they did not find (any); 56) for many gave false witness against him, and their testimonies were not consistent. 57) And some stood up and gave false witness against him, saying, "We heard him say, 'I shall destroy this temple that was made by (human) hands, and in three days I shall build another not made by (human) hands.' " 59) Yet, even then, their testimony on these grounds was not in agreement. 60) Then, the High Priests stood up in the midst (of them) and questioned Jesus, saying, "Have you nothing to say in reply, (about) what these (people) are testifying against you?" 61) But he stayed silent and answered nothing. Again the High Priest) questioned him, and says to him, "Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed (One)?" 62) Then, Jesus said, "I AM, and you will see the Son of man sitting at the right (hand) of power and coming with the clouds of heaven (vid. Psalms 110.1; Daniel 7.13)." 63) At this, the High Priest rent his inner clothing and says. "What need do we still have of witnesses? 64) You have heard this blasphemy? What do you think?" Then they all condemned him to be deserving of death. 65) And some began to spit on him and to cover all of his face, and to beat him with their fists and to say to him, "Prophesy," and the attendants struck him with slaps.
Peter's denials of Jesus (vv. 66-72).
66) As Peter was in the courtyard below, one of the maids of the High Priest comes, 67) and, seeing Peter warming himself, she looks at him, and says, "You too were with the Nazarene, Jesus." 68) But he denied (this), saying, "I neither know nor understand what you are saying," and he went out into the forecourt, [and a cock crowed]. 69) And the maid saw him and began again to tell bystanders, "This is (one) of them." 70) And again he denied (it). After a little (while), the bystanders said again to Peter, "You are certainly (one) of them, for, indeed, you are a Galilean." 71) And he began to curse and swear, "I do not know this man, of whom you speak." 72) And at once the cock crowed a second time; then, Peter remembered the saying that Jesus had said to him, "Before the cock crows twice, you will deny me thrice," and he broke down and wept.
CHAPTER 15.
Jesus before Pilate (vv. 1-5).
1) And, immediately, at dawn the chief priests with the elders and scribes and the whole Sanhedrin, after holding a consultation, bound Jesus, and led (him) away and delivered (him) to Pilate (i.e. the Roman governor). 2) Then, Pilate asked him, "Are you the King of the Jews?" And, in answer, he says to him, "You say (so)." 3) And the chief priests accused him of many (things). 4) Now, Pilate began to question him again, saying, "Have you nothing to say in reply? See, how many (things) they are accusing you of!" 5) But Jesus still answered nothing (vid. Isaiah 53.7), such that Pilate was amazed.
Jesus is sentenced to death (vv. 6-15).
6) Now, at this festival he used to release to them one prisoner whom they petitioned for. 7) And there was (one) called Barabbas, bound with those rebels who, in their sedition, had committed murder. 8) So, the crowd came up and began to ask (him to do) as he used to do for them. 9) Pilate answered them, saying, "Do you wish that I release that I release to you the King of the Jews? 10) Foe he realised that the chief priests had delivered him up on account of their envy. 11) But the chief priests stirred up the crowd, so that he he might release Barabbas to them instead. 12) Answering once more, Pilate said to them, "So what should I do (to him) whom you call the King of the Jews?" 13) And again they cried out, "Crucify him!" 14) But Pilate said to them, "Why, for (what) bad (thing) did he do?" But they cried out all the more, "Crucify him!" 15) Then, Pilate, wishing to do what (would) satisfy the crowd, released Barabbas to them, and, after he had had (him) flogged, he handed Jesus over to be crucified.
Jesus is publicly mocked (vv. 16-20).
16) Then, the soldiers led him away into the courtyard which is (within) the governor's palace, and they summon the whole cohort. 17) And they dress him in purple, and, weaving a crown of thorns, they put (it) on him; 18) And they began to salute him, "Hail, King of the Jews!" 19) And they struck his head with a reed and spat on him, and, bending their knees, they did obeisance to him. 20) And, when they had mocked him, they stripped him of the purple and dressed him in his outer garments. Then, they led him out to crucify him.
The way of the cross (vv. 21-22).
21) And they pressed (one) who was passing by, a certain Simon of Cyrene, who came from the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to lift up his cross. 22) And they brought him to the place (called) Golgotha, which means, (when) translated, the Place of a Skull.
The crucifixion of Jesus (vv. 23-32).
23) And they offered him wine mixed with myrrh (vid. Psalms 69.21), but he did not take (it). 24) And they impale him (on the stake), and distribute his outer garments (vid. Psalms 22.18), casting lots over them (as to) who should take what. 25) And it was the third hour (i.e. about 9.00 am.), and they crucified him. 26) And the inscription of the charge against him was written above (them), "The King of the Jews." 27) And they crucified two robbers with him, one on his right (hand) and one on his left. 28) -- 29) And those going by spoke abusively to him, wagging their heads (vid. Psalms 22.7) and saying, "Ha! (You) who would destroy the temple and build (it again) in three days, 30) save yourself and come down from the cross." 31) Likewise also, the chief priests, making fun (of him) among themselves with the scribes, said, "He saved others; himself he cannot save. 32) Let the Christ, the King of Israel, now come down from the cross, so that we may see and believe." Even those who were crucified with him reproached him.
The death of Jesus (vv. 33-39).
33) And, when the sixth hour had come (i.e. it was about 12.00 noon), there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour (i.e. about 3.p.m.). 34) And at the ninth hour, Jesus cried out with a loud voice, "Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani," which means, (when) translated, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (vid. Psalms 22.1.) 35) And, when some of those who were standing by heard (this), they said, "See, he is calling Elijah." 36) And one (of them) ran and filled a sponge full of vinegar, and, putting (it) on a reed, gave (it) to him to drink (vid. Psalms 69.21), saying, "Let (him) be! Let us whether Elijah is coming to take him down." 37) But Jesus let out a loud cry and gave up the ghost. 38) And the veil of the temple was rent in two from top to bottom. 39) And, when the centurion who was standing opposite him saw that he had died in these circumstances, he said, "Truly, this man was the Son of God."
The women at Calvary (vv. 40-41).
40) And there were also women watching from afar, among them Mary Magdalene, and Mary, the mother of James the Less and of Joses, and Salome (i.e. the mother of the sons of Zebedee), 41) who used to accompany him and serve him, and many other (women) who had gone up with him to Jerusalem.
The burial of Jesus (vv. 42-47).
42) Now it was already evening, (and) since it was the (Day of) Preparation, that is (the day) before the Sabbath, there came Joseph of Arimathea, a reputable council member (i.e. a member of the Sanhedrin), who was himself also awaiting the kingdom of God, and he ventured to go in before Pilate and ask for Jesus' body. 44) But Pilate wondered whether he had already died, and, summoning the centurion, he asked him whether he was already dead; 45) then, having ascertained (that he was), he bestowed Jesus' corpse upon Joseph. 46) And, having purchased some fine linen, he (i.e. Joseph of Arimathea) took him down, and wrapped (him) in the linen cloth and laid him a tomb, which had been quarried out of rock, and he rolled a stone up to the door of the tomb. 47) And Mary Magdalene, and Mary, the mother of Joses, saw where he had been laid.
CHAPTER 16.
The resurrection of Jesus (vv. 1-8).
1) 1) Now, when the Sabbath had passed, Mary Magdalen and Mary, the (mother) of James, and Salome, bought some spices, in order that they might come and anoint him. 2) And very early, on the first day of the week, they come to the tomb, when the sun had risen. 3) And they were saying to one another, "Who will roll away the stone from the door of the tomb for us?" 4) But, when they looked up, they behold that the stone has been rolled away, although it was very large. 5) And, entering the tomb, they saw a young man sitting on the right (side), dressed in a white robe, and they were astonished. 6) And he says to them, "Do not be amazed! You seek Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified; he has risen, he is not here; behold, the place where they laid him! 7) But go, tell his disciples and Peter, "He goes before you into Galilee; there you will see him, just as he told you." 8) Then, they went out, and fled from the tomb, for trembling and astonishment had taken hold of them; but they said nothing to anyone, for they were afraid.
THE LONGER ENDING OF MARK (Ch. 16. 9-20).
(Certain ancient manuscripts and versions, including the Authorised Version, add the following long conclusion:)
The appearance to Mary Magdalen (vv. 9-11).
9) [Now, after he had risen early on the first (day) of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalen, from whom he had expelled seven demons. 10) She went and reported to those who had been with him, who were weeping and wailing; 11) but, when they heard that he was alive and had been seen by her, they did not believe (it).
The appearance to two disciples (vv. 12-13).
The commissioning of the disciples (vv. 14-18).
14) But later he appeared to the Eleven, themselves, as they were reclining (at the table), and he rebuked (them) for their lack of faith and hardness of heart, because they did not believe those who had seen him since he had risen from the dead. 15) And he said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to the whole of creation. 16) He who believes and is baptised will be saved, but he who disbelieves will be condemned. 17) Moreover, these signs will accompany those who believe; in my name they will cast out demons, (and) they will speak with tongues. 18) And they will pick up serpents in their hands, and, if they drink anything deadly, it will not harm them at all; they will lay their hands upon the sick, and they will become well.
The ascension of Jesus (vv. 19-20).
19) So then, the Lord Jesus, after having spoken to them, was taken up into heaven, and sat at the right (hand) of God. 20) And they went out and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with (them) and confirmed the message by the accompanying signs.]
(Some late manuscripts and versions contain a short conclusion after Mark 16.8, as follows:)
[But all (the things) that had been commanded, they briefly related to Peter and his companions. Further, after these (things), Jesus himself sent out through them from the east to the west the holy and incorruptible proclamation of everlasting salvation.]
