Mark 1:31

KJV

And he came and took her by the hand, and lifted her up; and immediately the fever left her, and she ministered unto them.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} he came {G4334} and took {G2902} her {G846} by the hand {G5495}, and lifted {G1453} her {G846} up {G1453}; and {G2532} immediately {G2112} the fever {G4446} left {G863} her {G846}, and {G2532} she ministered {G1247} unto them {G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He came, took her by the hand and lifted her onto her feet. The fever left her, and she began helping them.

Berean Standard Bible

So He went to her, took her by the hand, and helped her up. The fever left her, and she began to serve them.

American Standard Version

and he came and took her by the hand, and raised her up; and the fever left her, and she ministered unto them.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Mark 1:31 vividly portrays Jesus' profound compassion, authoritative power over illness, and the immediate, transformative impact of His divine touch. This concise account details Jesus' personal intervention in the private home of Simon and Andrew, where He heals Peter's mother-in-law from a severe fever, leading to her instant and grateful resumption of service. The verse encapsulates the essence of Jesus' early ministry, demonstrating His holistic care for individuals and the Kingdom-oriented response of those who encounter His grace.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This healing event occurs immediately after Jesus' powerful teaching and exorcism in the Capernaum synagogue, as recounted in [Mark 1:21-28](/mark/1-21-28 "Mark 1:21-28 - Jesus' Authority in Capernaum"). The synagogue incident had already established Jesus' unique authority, causing astonishment among the crowds. Mark's narrative then swiftly transitions from the public setting of the synagogue to the private domestic sphere, highlighting that Jesus' compassion and power are not limited to public displays but extend to personal needs within a home. The disciples, Simon (Peter), Andrew, James, and John, are present, having just been called by Jesus to follow Him, thus witnessing another powerful demonstration of His identity and mission. The rapid sequence of events—synagogue, house, healing, then the influx of many more sick and demon-possessed people in [Mark 1:32-34](/mark/1-32-34 "Mark 1:32-34 - Jesus Heals Many at Evening")—underscores the relentless pace and overwhelming demand of Jesus' early ministry.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Capernaum, a bustling fishing village on the Sea of Galilee, served as Jesus' primary base of operations during His Galilean ministry, making it a fitting location for such a significant early miracle. Fevers were a common and often life-threatening ailment in the ancient world, with limited effective medical treatments. A "severe fever" (as described in the parallel account in [Luke 4:38](/luke/4-38 "Luke 4:38 - Peter's Mother-in-Law's Fever")) would have rendered the individual completely incapacitated, unable to perform daily tasks, especially household duties. In Jewish culture, hospitality was paramount, and the inability of the hostess to serve guests would have been a matter of significant concern and social embarrassment. Jesus' willingness to enter a private home and directly engage with a woman's illness demonstrates a counter-cultural compassion, as many religious leaders might have avoided such direct contact, particularly with a sick woman.
* **Key Themes:** Mark 1:31 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the Gospel of Mark. Firstly, it powerfully reinforces the theme of **Jesus' Divine Authority** over sickness and disease, a direct manifestation of the Kingdom of God breaking into the human realm. The instantaneous nature of the healing, without ritual or lengthy process, highlights His inherent power. Secondly, the verse emphasizes **Jesus' Compassion and Accessibility**, showing Him not as a distant miracle-worker but as one who personally approaches, touches, and restores those in need, even in a private setting. This contrasts with the more formal, public displays of authority. Thirdly, the woman's immediate response of "ministering unto them" introduces the crucial theme of **Service as a Response to Grace**. Her action serves as an early model of discipleship, illustrating that those who have experienced Christ's transformative power are compelled to serve others, echoing Jesus' own mission to [serve rather than be served](/mark/10-45 "Mark 10:45 - The Son of Man Came to Serve").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **egeírō (Greek, _egeírō'_):** This verb, translated "lifted her up," signifies more than a mere physical assist. While it certainly describes Jesus helping the woman to her feet, its broader semantic range includes "to waken," "to rouse from disease," and "to raise (up)." In the context of healing, it implies a complete restoration of strength and vitality, enabling her to stand and function fully. This word is also notably used in the New Testament for resurrection, subtly hinting at the life-giving power inherent in Jesus' touch.
* **euthéōs (Greek, _euthéōs'_):** Rendered "immediately," this adverb is a hallmark of Mark's Gospel, appearing frequently to convey the swiftness and decisiveness of Jesus' actions. Here, it underscores the instantaneous and complete nature of the healing. There is no gradual recovery, no lingering weakness; the fever departs entirely at Jesus' touch, demonstrating His absolute and undeniable authority over illness. This immediacy highlights the divine origin of the miracle.
* **diakonéō (Greek, _diakonéō'_):** Translated "ministered unto them," this verb means "to serve," "to attend," or "to wait upon." It is the root of the English word "deacon" and often refers to practical, hands-on service, especially in the context of hospitality. The woman's immediate act of service signifies not only her full and complete recovery but also her spontaneous and grateful response to the grace she received. It embodies the principle that those who are healed and restored by Christ are empowered and compelled to serve others.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he came and took her by the hand, and lifted her up":** This clause highlights Jesus' active, personal, and compassionate engagement. He doesn't merely speak a word from a distance or send a messenger. He "came" into her private space, demonstrating His accessibility and willingness to enter human suffering. His action of "took her by the hand" is a tender, intimate gesture, conveying empathy and direct connection, while also serving as a conduit for His healing power. The subsequent "lifted her up" signifies a physical restoration, moving her from a state of prostration and weakness to one of strength and ability.
* **"and immediately the fever left her":** This phrase emphasizes the instantaneous and complete nature of the miracle. The adverb "immediately" (Greek: _euthéōs_) is characteristic of Mark's Gospel, conveying the dynamic and authoritative power of Jesus. The fever's departure is not a gradual process but an abrupt cessation, indicating that Jesus' power is absolute and effective over disease. This swift healing serves as a clear sign of His divine authority and the breaking in of God's Kingdom.
* **"and she ministered unto them."**: This final clause reveals the profound impact of the healing. The woman's immediate action of "ministering" (Greek: _diakonéō_) signifies her full and rapid recovery, as she is instantly able to resume her household duties, likely preparing and serving food. More significantly, it portrays her grateful and spontaneous response to Jesus' grace. Her service is a practical demonstration of her restored health and a powerful example of how those who experience Christ's transformative power are moved to serve others, embodying the spirit of discipleship.

#### Literary Devices
Mark's concise and action-oriented style is evident in this verse, employing **Narrative Economy** to convey a profound event with minimal words. The repeated use of "and" (Greek: _kai_) creates a sense of rapid progression, characteristic of Mark's Gospel, emphasizing the swiftness of Jesus' actions and their immediate consequences. The adverb **Immediacy** ("immediately," _euthéōs_) is central, not only highlighting the miraculous nature of the healing but also underscoring Jesus' decisive and authoritative power. There is a powerful **Contrast** presented: from prostration due to illness to active service, showcasing the complete transformation wrought by Jesus. The act of "lifting her up" (Greek: _egeírō_) carries a subtle **Symbolism**, echoing the language often used for resurrection, hinting at Jesus' life-giving power that extends beyond mere physical healing to ultimate spiritual restoration. Finally, the woman's immediate service acts as a **Paradigm**, illustrating the expected response of gratitude and dedication from those who have been touched by Christ's grace.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Mark 1:31 profoundly illustrates Jesus' dual nature as both fully human and fully divine. His compassionate "coming" and "taking her by the hand" demonstrate His profound empathy and willingness to physically engage with human suffering, embodying the very nature of God's love. Simultaneously, the instantaneous departure of the fever at His touch unequivocally reveals His divine authority over creation, sickness, and the forces of decay. This miracle is not merely a display of power but a tangible sign of the Kingdom of God breaking into the world, bringing healing, restoration, and life. The woman's immediate response of service, born out of gratitude, establishes a foundational principle of discipleship: those who have received grace are called to offer their renewed strength and lives in service to God and others, mirroring Christ's own self-giving ministry.

* [Matthew 8:14-15](/matthew/8-14-15 "Matthew 8:14-15 - Peter's Mother-in-Law Healed")
* [Luke 4:38-39](/luke/4-38-39 "Luke 4:38-39 - Peter's Mother-in-Law Healed")
* [Acts 9:32-35](/acts/9-32-35 "Acts 9:32-35 - Aeneas Healed by Peter")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Mark 1:31 serves as a powerful reminder that Jesus' compassion extends to every facet of human need, even those seemingly mundane or private. He did not wait for a public spectacle but entered a humble home, demonstrating His intimate care for individuals. This should encourage us to bring all our needs, great and small, before Him, trusting in His personal concern and power. Furthermore, the healed woman's immediate response of service provides a profound model for Christian living. Her gratitude was not passive but active, compelling her to use her restored strength to bless others. When we experience God's grace, healing, or provision in our lives, our natural and Spirit-empowered response should be a desire to serve Him and our neighbors with our gifts, time, and resources. This verse challenges us to consider how our own encounters with Christ's transformative power lead us to practical acts of love and service, embodying the very heart of discipleship.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Jesus' personal approach and touch in this verse challenge my understanding of His compassion and accessibility?**
* **In what areas of my life do I need Jesus to "lift me up" from spiritual or emotional "fevers" that hinder my ability to serve?**
* **What is my immediate and practical response when I experience God's grace or intervention in my life? Am I moved to "minister unto them"?**
* **How can I cultivate a heart of service that flows spontaneously from gratitude, similar to the woman in this account?**

### FAQ
**Why is the woman's immediate act of "ministering unto them" so significant in this passage?**

Answer: The woman's immediate act of "ministering unto them" is highly significant for several reasons. Firstly, it serves as irrefutable proof of her complete and instantaneous healing. A person recovering from a severe fever would typically require a period of rest and recuperation, but her immediate ability to resume household duties, likely preparing and serving food, demonstrates a full and miraculous restoration of strength and vitality. Secondly, it highlights the spontaneous and grateful response of someone who has experienced Jesus' transformative power. Her service is not coerced or delayed, but flows naturally from her gratitude. Finally, it sets a powerful precedent for discipleship. It illustrates that those who are touched by Christ's grace are not merely passive recipients but are empowered and compelled to use their renewed lives in service to God and others. This aligns with Jesus' own mission, as He famously stated that He [came not to be served but to serve](/mark/10-45 "Mark 10:45 - The Son of Man Came to Serve"), and calls His followers to do the same.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Mark 1:31, while a simple narrative of physical healing, points profoundly to the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is revealed as the Great Physician, whose authority extends not only over physical ailments but ultimately over sin and death itself. His compassionate act of "lifting her up" (Greek: _egeírō_) foreshadows His ultimate victory over the grave, as He Himself would be "raised up" from death, bringing life and resurrection to all who believe, as seen in [Romans 8:11](/romans/8-11 "Romans 8:11 - The Spirit of Him Who Raised Jesus"). The instantaneous departure of the fever signifies His power to cleanse and purify, a power that finds its ultimate expression in His atoning work on the cross, where He takes away the "fever" of sin that afflicts humanity, making us whole and clean (compare [Isaiah 53:5](/isaiah/53-5 "Isaiah 53:5 - By His Wounds We Are Healed")). Furthermore, the woman's immediate response of service, or "ministering" (Greek: _diakonéō_), beautifully prefigures the call to discipleship that Jesus extends to all who are healed by His grace. Just as He [came to serve and give His life](/mark/10-45 "Mark 10:45 - The Son of Man Came to Serve"), so too are His followers called to a life of self-giving service, empowered by the very grace they have received. Her act of service, therefore, becomes a microcosm of the redeemed life, lived in grateful response to the One who made all things new, reflecting the very heart of Christ's mission to [seek and save the lost](/luke/19-10 "Luke 19:10 - The Son of Man Came to Seek and Save the Lost").

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Acts 9:41

And he gave her [his] hand, and lifted her up, and when he had called the saints and widows, presented her alive.

Psalms 116:12

What shall I render unto the LORD [for] all his benefits toward me?

Luke 8:2

And certain women, which had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary called Magdalene, out of whom went seven devils,

Luke 8:3

And Joanna the wife of Chuza Herod's steward, and Susanna, and many others, which ministered unto him of their substance.

Mark 5:41

And he took the damsel by the hand, and said unto her, Talitha cumi; which is, being interpreted, Damsel, I say unto thee, arise.

Mark 15:41

(Who also, when he was in Galilee, followed him, and ministered unto him;) and many other women which came up with him unto Jerusalem.

Psalms 103:1

¶ [A Psalm] of David. Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, [bless] his holy name.