Mark 13:12

KJV

Now the brother shall betray the brother to death, and the father the son; and children shall rise up against [their] parents, and shall cause them to be put to death.

KJV (with Strong's)

Now {G1161} the brother {G80} shall betray {G3860} the brother {G80} to {G1519} death {G2288}, and {G2532} the father {G3962} the son {G5043}; and {G2532} children {G5043} shall rise up {G1881} against {G1909} their parents {G1118}, and {G2532} shall cause {G2289} them {G846} to be put to death {G2289}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; children will turn against their parents and have them put to death;

Berean Standard Bible

Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child. Children will rise against their parents and have them put to death.

American Standard Version

And brother shall deliver up brother to death, and the father his child; and children shall rise up against parents, and cause them to be put to death.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Mark 13:12 is a solemn prophetic utterance from Jesus' Olivet Discourse, depicting the profound societal and familial breakdown that will characterize the tribulation preceding His return. It starkly warns that during this intense period of persecution, even the most sacred bonds of kinship—between siblings, parents and children—will dissolve into betrayal and death, underscoring the extreme spiritual darkness and animosity that will be directed against those who faithfully follow Christ.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within Jesus' extensive eschatological discourse on the Mount of Olives, as recorded in [Mark 13](/mark/13 "Mark 13 - The Olivet Discourse"), [Matthew 24](/matthew/24 "Matthew 24 - Signs of the End of the Age"), and [Luke 21](/luke/21 "Luke 21 - Jesus' Prophecy of the End Times"). Following His disciples' awe at the Temple's grandeur and their subsequent question about its destruction and the signs of His coming, Jesus delivers a detailed prophecy. The discourse begins with warnings against deception and false messiahs ([Mark 13:5-6](/mark/13-5-6 "Mark 13:5-6 - Warnings Against Deception")), progresses to global calamities like wars and famines ([Mark 13:7-8](/mark/13-7-8 "Mark 13:7-8 - Wars and Famines")), and then shifts to the direct persecution of believers ([Mark 13:9-13](/mark/13-9-13 "Mark 13:9-13 - Persecution of Believers")). Within this escalating sequence of tribulation, [Mark 13:12](/mark/13-12 "Mark 13:12 - Familial Betrayal") specifically intensifies the description of persecution, moving from external opposition to the most intimate and shocking form of betrayal—that within one's own family. This progression highlights the pervasive nature of the coming tribulation, affecting not just public life but also the most private spheres.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Jesus' prophecy would have resonated deeply with His Jewish audience, who understood the sanctity of family bonds as foundational to their society and faith, rooted in Mosaic law (e.g., [Exodus 20:12](/exodus/20-12 "Exodus 20:12 - Honor Your Father and Mother")). The idea of familial betrayal leading to death was horrifying, even in a context where political and religious tensions were high under Roman occupation. While the immediate audience might have anticipated persecution from Roman authorities or Jewish religious leaders, Jesus' words point to an unprecedented level of animosity that would transcend conventional societal divisions, attacking the very fabric of kinship. This prophecy found initial fulfillment in the early church's history, where believers often faced ostracism and betrayal from their Jewish and pagan families for their allegiance to Christ, as evidenced in historical accounts and New Testament letters (e.g., [Acts 7:54-60](/acts/7-54-60 "Acts 7:54-60 - The Stoning of Stephen")). The intensity of the language also points to a future, ultimate tribulation where such betrayals will reach their zenith.

* **Key Themes:** [Mark 13:12](/mark/13-12 "Mark 13:12 - Familial Betrayal") contributes significantly to several key themes within the Olivet Discourse and the broader Gospel of Mark. Firstly, it emphasizes the **cost of discipleship**, showing that following Jesus may demand loyalty that transcends even the most fundamental human relationships, potentially leading to rejection and death, a theme echoed in [Mark 8:34-37](/mark/8-34-37 "Mark 8:34-37 - The Cost of Following Jesus"). Secondly, it highlights the **intensity of end-times tribulation**, portraying a period of unprecedented societal decay and spiritual darkness where natural affections are corrupted by hatred for Christ and His followers, serving as a "birth pain" signaling the end of the age ([Mark 13:8](/mark/13-8 "Mark 13:8 - Birth Pains")). Thirdly, the verse underscores the **radical nature of the Kingdom of God**, implying that allegiance to Christ creates a new family that may stand in opposition to earthly ties, as Jesus Himself stated in [Mark 3:31-35](/mark/3-31-35 "Mark 3:31-35 - Jesus' True Family"). Finally, it foreshadows the **persecution of the righteous**, a recurring biblical theme (e.g., [Psalm 34:19](/psalms/34-19 "Psalm 34:19 - Many are the afflictions of the righteous")), here reaching its most intimate and devastating expression.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **betray (Greek, _paradídōmi'_):** From G3860, meaning "to surrender," "to yield up," "to entrust," or "to transmit." This word carries the strong connotation of handing someone over, often to an authority for judgment or punishment. It is the same verb used to describe Judas's handing over of Jesus ([Mark 14:43](/mark/14-43 "Mark 14:43 - Judas Betrays Jesus")). In the context of familial betrayal, it signifies a deliberate, active turning over of a loved one to death, not merely a passive abandonment.
* **death (Greek, _thánatos'_):** From G2288, meaning "death" (literally or figuratively). Here, it refers to physical death, the ultimate consequence of the betrayal. The phrase "to death" (G1519 eis thánatos) emphasizes the purpose or outcome of the betrayal: it is specifically for the purpose of bringing about the person's demise.
* **parents (Greek, _goneús'_):** From G1118, meaning "a parent." This term encompasses both father and mother, indicating that the rebellion of children will be against both parental figures, reinforcing the complete breakdown of the family unit. The use of this general term after specific mentions of "father" and "son" highlights the comprehensive nature of this familial rupture.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Now the brother shall betray the brother to death":** This clause initiates the chilling prophecy, establishing the theme of intimate betrayal. The term "brother" (G80 adelphós) signifies not just a sibling, but any close kinsman or fellow member of a community. The act of "betraying" (G3860 paradídōmi) implies a deliberate act of handing over, leading directly "to death" (G1519 eis G2288 thánatos). This highlights the profound corruption of natural affection, where the closest bonds are severed for the purpose of lethal persecution.
* **"and the father the son":** This phrase intensifies the horror, moving from horizontal sibling betrayal to vertical parental betrayal. The "father" (G3962 patḗr), traditionally a protector and provider, is prophesied to turn against his "son" (G5043 téknon). This reversal of natural order underscores the extreme nature of the tribulation, where even the most fundamental and sacred family relationships are shattered by the pressure of the times or animosity towards faith.
* **"and children shall rise up against [their] parents, and shall cause them to be put to death.":** This final clause completes the picture of familial disintegration, portraying a reciprocal and equally grievous betrayal. "Children" (G5043 téknon) will "rise up against" (G1881 epanístamai, G1909 epí G1118 goneús) their "parents" (G1118 goneús), actively rebelling and instigating their demise. The phrase "shall cause them to be put to death" (G2289 thanatóō) emphasizes the active role of the children in bringing about the death of their parents. This signifies a complete inversion of the divinely ordained family structure, where respect and honor are replaced by lethal antagonism, demonstrating the ultimate depth of depravity and the severity of the end-times persecution.

#### Literary Devices
Mark 13:12 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its stark message. **Hyperbole** is evident in the extreme nature of the familial betrayal described; while such instances may occur, the prophecy's sweeping statement emphasizes the radical and widespread breakdown of natural affection. This serves to shock the audience and underscore the severity of the coming tribulation. **Parallelism** is also present in the successive clauses ("brother shall betray brother," "father the son," "children shall rise up against parents"), creating a rhythmic emphasis on the pervasive nature of this internal strife. This repetition reinforces the idea that no familial bond, no matter how sacred, will be immune to the destructive forces unleashed during the end times. Furthermore, the verse utilizes **Foreshadowing**, preparing the disciples and future believers for the intense persecution that would arise, not only from external authorities but from within their most intimate circles. This serves as a sober warning and a call to unwavering faithfulness in the face of unimaginable opposition.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Mark 13:12 powerfully illustrates the profound spiritual warfare that will escalate in the last days, where allegiance to Christ will clash violently with earthly loyalties, even those as fundamental as family. This prophecy reveals the depth of human depravity and the pervasive influence of spiritual darkness that can corrupt the most sacred bonds. It underscores the truth that the Kingdom of God often brings division, not peace in the worldly sense, as the light of Christ exposes and challenges the darkness of sin. The willingness of family members to betray one another to death for the sake of their faith highlights the ultimate cost of discipleship and the radical nature of true commitment to Jesus, where one's primary allegiance must be to God above all others. This serves as a sobering reminder that following Christ may lead to profound personal sacrifice and alienation, but also implicitly calls believers to trust in God's ultimate sovereignty and protection amidst such trials.

* [Matthew 10:21](/matthew/10-21 "Matthew 10:21 - Brother Will Betray Brother")
* [Luke 21:16](/luke/21-16 "Luke 21:16 - Betrayal by Family and Friends")
* [Micah 7:6](/micah/7-6 "Micah 7:6 - Son Dishonors Father")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Mark 13:12 stands as a potent reminder of the potential cost of authentic discipleship and the challenging realities that believers may face in a world increasingly hostile to Christ. While we may not currently experience familial betrayal leading to death, the underlying principle of loyalty to Christ superseding all earthly allegiances remains profoundly relevant. This verse compels us to examine the depth of our own commitment: are we prepared to stand for Christ even when it means alienation from those we love most? It challenges us to cultivate a faith so rooted in God that it can withstand the severing of the most cherished human ties. Furthermore, it encourages us to pray for those who are persecuted globally, and to be a source of spiritual family and support for those who have been rejected by their biological families for their faith. This passage calls for sober preparation, not fear, fostering a resilient hope grounded in Christ's ultimate victory, knowing that He has overcome the world and will sustain His faithful ones through every trial.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does this prophecy challenge my understanding of the "peace" that Christ brings?**
* **In what ways might my loyalty to Christ be tested by family or close relationships in my current context?**
* **What does this verse teach me about the nature of spiritual warfare and the importance of discerning true allegiance?**
* **How can I better prepare myself spiritually and emotionally to remain faithful to Christ, even if it means facing opposition from unexpected sources?**

### FAQ

**Does Mark 13:12 apply only to the end times, or does it have relevance for believers today?**

Answer: While [Mark 13:12](/mark/13-12 "Mark 13:12 - Familial Betrayal") is part of Jesus' prophecy concerning the "end of the age" and the great tribulation, its principles have found partial fulfillment throughout church history and continue to be relevant for believers today. From the earliest days of Christianity, many converts faced ostracism, rejection, and even betrayal from their families for choosing to follow Christ. This is particularly true in contexts where conversion to Christianity is viewed as a betrayal of cultural or religious identity. Jesus' words serve as a timeless warning that following Him may indeed create division, as He stated in [Matthew 10:34-36](/matthew/10-34-36 "Matthew 10:34-36 - Jesus Brings Division"), "Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. And a person's enemies will be those of his own household." Thus, while the ultimate fulfillment awaits the climactic end-time tribulation, the spiritual reality of familial division for Christ's sake is a present possibility for many believers worldwide.

**How can believers cope with the pain of familial betrayal for their faith?**

Answer: Coping with familial betrayal, especially for one's faith, is one of the most agonizing experiences a believer can face. [Mark 13:12](/mark/13-12 "Mark 13:12 - Familial Betrayal") implicitly calls believers to find their ultimate refuge and family in God. First, it is crucial to remember that Jesus Himself experienced profound betrayal, even from His closest disciples ([Mark 14:43-45](/mark/14-43-45 "Mark 14:43-45 - Judas Betrays Jesus")). This provides a deep sense of empathy and understanding from Christ. Second, believers are encouraged to lean heavily on the community of faith, the church, which the New Testament often portrays as the true spiritual family of God ([Mark 3:31-35](/mark/3-31-35 "Mark 3:31-35 - Jesus' True Family")). Third, the promise of divine recompense and eternal reward offers profound comfort ([Mark 10:29-30](/mark/10-29-30 "Mark 10:29-30 - Rewards for Following Jesus")). Finally, maintaining a posture of forgiveness and prayer for those who betray, as Christ did on the cross ([Luke 23:34](/luke/23-34 "Luke 23:34 - Jesus Forgives His Executioners")), is essential for spiritual healing and perseverance, trusting God to work all things for good ([Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "Romans 8:28 - All Things Work for Good")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Mark 13:12, with its chilling prophecy of familial betrayal leading to death, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment not only in the suffering of His followers but preeminently in the experience of Jesus Himself. Jesus, the Son of God, was "betrayed" (using the same Greek word, _paradídōmi_) by one of His own disciples, Judas Iscariot, into the hands of those who sought His death ([Mark 14:43-45](/mark/14-43-45 "Mark 14:43-45 - Judas Betrays Jesus")). He was rejected by His own people ([John 1:11](/john/1-11 "John 1:11 - He Came to His Own")), abandoned by His closest friends ([Mark 14:50](/mark/14-50 "Mark 14:50 - Disciples Desert Jesus")), and ultimately handed over to "death" on a cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Obedient to Death")). Thus, the very pattern of intimate betrayal and suffering unto death described for His disciples was first and perfectly embodied by Christ. His experience validates the prophecy and assures believers that their suffering is a participation in His own ([Colossians 1:24](/colossians/1-24 "Colossians 1:24 - Sharing in Christ's Sufferings")). Moreover, Jesus' triumph over death through His resurrection ([Mark 16:6](/mark/16-6 "Mark 16:6 - He is Risen!")) transforms the grim prospect of betrayal and death into a pathway to eternal life and glory. For the believer, facing such trials is a call to identify with Christ's suffering, knowing that just as He was raised, so too will those who remain faithful to Him be raised to new life and receive an imperishable crown ([1 Peter 5:4](/1_peter/5-4 "1 Peter 5:4 - Crown of Glory")). The prophecy of familial betrayal, therefore, points to the profound reality that following Christ means entering into a new, spiritual family, whose bonds are eternal and whose head, Jesus, has already endured and conquered the worst that the world can inflict.

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

Matthew 10:21

And the brother shall deliver up the brother to death, and the father the child: and the children shall rise up against [their] parents, and cause them to be put to death.

Luke 12:52

For from henceforth there shall be five in one house divided, three against two, and two against three.

Luke 12:53

The father shall be divided against the son, and the son against the father; the mother against the daughter, and the daughter against the mother; the mother in law against her daughter in law, and the daughter in law against her mother in law.

Luke 21:16

And ye shall be betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends; and [some] of you shall they cause to be put to death.

Micah 7:4

The best of them [is] as a brier: the most upright [is sharper] than a thorn hedge: the day of thy watchmen [and] thy visitation cometh; now shall be their perplexity.

Micah 7:6

For the son dishonoureth the father, the daughter riseth up against her mother, the daughter in law against her mother in law; a man's enemies [are] the men of his own house.

Ezekiel 38:21

And I will call for a sword against him throughout all my mountains, saith the Lord GOD: every man's sword shall be against his brother.