Mark 2:28

KJV

Therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath.

KJV (with Strong's)

Therefore {G5620} the Son {G5207} of man {G444} is {G2076} Lord {G2962} also {G2532} of the sabbath {G4521}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So the Son of Man is Lord even of Shabbat."

Berean Standard Bible

Therefore, the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.”

American Standard Version

so that the Son of man is lord even of the sabbath.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Mark 2:28 serves as the climactic declaration in a significant Sabbath controversy, where Jesus asserts His ultimate authority over the very institution of the Sabbath. Following His defense of His disciples' actions and His foundational statement that "the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath," Jesus identifies Himself as "the Son of Man" and unequivocally declares His lordship over the Sabbath, thereby revealing His divine sovereignty and His compassionate reinterpretation of God's law.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse concludes a pivotal narrative in [Mark's Gospel](/mark/2 "Mark 2 - Jesus' Authority and Controversies"), immediately following the incident where Jesus' disciples plucked grain on the Sabbath, prompting a confrontation with the Pharisees. The preceding verses, [Mark 2:23-27](/mark/2-23-27 "Mark 2:23-27 - Disciples Pluck Grain on the Sabbath"), detail the accusation, Jesus' defense by citing David's eating of the consecrated showbread ([1 Samuel 21:1-6](/1_samuel/21-1-6 "1 Samuel 21:1-6 - David and the Showbread")), and His profound statement in [Mark 2:27](/mark/2-27 "Mark 2:27 - The Sabbath Made for Man"): "The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath." This progression builds to the decisive declaration in [Mark 2:28](/mark/2-28 "Mark 2:28 - Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath"), establishing Jesus' authority as the ultimate interpreter and master of the Sabbath. The passage sets the stage for further conflicts over the Sabbath, such as the healing of the man with the withered hand in [Mark 3:1-6](/mark/3-1-6 "Mark 3:1-6 - Healing on the Sabbath").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Sabbath was one of the most distinctive and rigorously observed commandments in ancient Judaism, rooted in the creation account ([Genesis 2:2-3](/genesis/2-2-3 "Genesis 2:2-3 - God Rests on the Seventh Day")) and the Mosaic Law ([Exodus 20:8-11](/exodus/20-8-11 "Exodus 20:8-11 - The Fourth Commandment")). By Jesus' time, rabbinic traditions had developed an elaborate system of prohibitions and regulations, often called "halakha," defining what constituted "work" on the Sabbath. The Pharisees, in particular, were zealous in upholding these traditions, viewing them as essential for maintaining holiness and national identity. Plucking grain was considered a form of harvesting, thus "work," and therefore a violation of their interpretation of the Sabbath law. Jesus' actions and teachings challenged these rigid interpretations, not by abolishing the Sabbath, but by restoring its original intent of rest, mercy, and human flourishing, and by asserting His own authority over it.
* **Key Themes:** [Mark 2:28](/mark/2-28 "Mark 2:28 - Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath") powerfully contributes to several key themes in Mark's Gospel. Firstly, it underscores **Jesus' Divine Authority** and **Sovereignty**, revealing Him as more than a prophet or teacher, but as one with ultimate jurisdiction over God's own institutions. Secondly, it highlights the **Purpose of the Sabbath** as a gift for humanity's benefit, emphasizing mercy and human need over rigid legalism, a theme further explored in [Mark 3:4](/mark/3-4 "Mark 3:4 - Is it Lawful to Do Good on the Sabbath?"). Thirdly, Jesus' self-designation as **"the Son of Man"** is a crucial Christological theme, consistently used throughout Mark. This title, drawn from [Daniel 7:13-14](/daniel/7-13-14 "Daniel 7:13-14 - The Son of Man Coming with the Clouds"), denotes both His true humanity and His unique, eschatological, and divine authority, linking His earthly ministry to His heavenly power and future reign.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Son (Greek, _huiós'_):** This word, meaning "son" or "child," is used here in conjunction with "man" to form the significant title "Son of Man." While literally referring to human offspring, in this context, it is part of Jesus' most frequent self-designation, pointing to His unique identity as both fully human and divinely appointed, often with eschatological and authoritative implications.
* **man (Greek, _ánthrōpos'_):** Referring to a human being, this word completes the phrase "Son of Man." Its inclusion emphasizes Jesus' genuine humanity, distinguishing Him from divine beings or spirits, while simultaneously, in the context of the "Son of Man" title, hinting at a broader, universal, and representative human identity that transcends mere individuality.
* **Lord (Greek, _kýrios'_):** Derived from a root meaning "supremacy," this term signifies "controller," "master," or one "supreme in authority." When Jesus declares Himself "Lord of the Sabbath," it is a profound claim of ultimate jurisdiction and ownership, indicating that the Sabbath, a divine institution, is subject to His will and authority. This title often carries divine connotations, linking Jesus to the sovereign God of Israel.
* **sabbath (Greek, _sábbaton'_):** Of Hebrew origin, this word refers to the seventh day of the week, observed as a day of rest and cessation from secular work. It encompasses both the specific day and the institution or observance itself. By claiming lordship over the Sabbath, Jesus asserts His authority over this foundational aspect of Jewish religious life, implying His right to define its true purpose and application.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Therefore":** (Greek: _hṓste_) This transitional particle indicates a logical consequence or conclusion drawn from the preceding argument. It signals that Jesus' declaration of His lordship over the Sabbath is the direct and unavoidable implication of His earlier statement in [Mark 2:27](/mark/2-27 "Mark 2:27 - The Sabbath Made for Man")—that the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.
* **"the Son of man":** This is Jesus' preferred self-designation, a title rich in theological meaning. It simultaneously emphasizes His genuine humanity while also alluding to the authoritative, heavenly, and eschatological figure described in [Daniel 7:13-14](/daniel/7-13-14 "Daniel 7:13-14 - The Son of Man Coming with the Clouds"). By using this title, Jesus links His earthly identity to His divine authority and future role as judge and king.
* **"is Lord":** (Greek: _estí Kýrios_) This is a direct and unequivocal assertion of authority. The verb "is" (estí) affirms His present and inherent state, while "Lord" (Kýrios) signifies supreme authority, mastery, and ownership. This is not merely a claim to interpret the law, but to be the one who stands above it, having ultimate jurisdiction.
* **"also of the sabbath.":** The inclusion of "also" (Greek: _kaí_) emphasizes that Jesus' lordship is not limited to the Sabbath but extends to it as well, implying His authority over all things. By declaring Himself "Lord of the Sabbath," Jesus claims ultimate authority over this central institution, revealing His power to define its true purpose and to transcend the rigid interpretations imposed by human tradition.

#### Literary Devices
Mark 2:28 employs several powerful literary devices. The most prominent is **Christological Declaration**, where Jesus explicitly reveals a profound truth about His identity and authority. His self-designation as "the Son of Man" is a key example of **Symbolism** and **Allusion**, drawing on the prophetic imagery of [Daniel 7:13-14](/daniel/7-13-14 "Daniel 7:13-14 - The Son of Man Coming with the Clouds") to convey both His humanity and His divine, eschatological role. The statement itself is an **Assertion of Authority**, a direct and unambiguous claim of sovereignty over a foundational divine institution. There is also an element of **Irony**, as the humble "Son of Man" (a title that often implies suffering and service) is simultaneously declared "Lord" of a sacred institution, subverting the expectations of His opponents and highlighting the paradoxical nature of His divine power manifested in human form.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Mark 2:28 is a profound theological statement that redefines the understanding of the Sabbath and Jesus' relationship to God's law. It asserts that Jesus, as the "Son of Man," possesses ultimate authority, not merely to interpret the Sabbath law, but to be its very Lord. This implies that the Sabbath, originally given as a gift for humanity's benefit, finds its true meaning and purpose in Him. Jesus is not abolishing the Sabbath, but fulfilling it by restoring its compassionate intent over legalistic burdens. This declaration elevates Jesus' status significantly, placing Him above the law and revealing His divine prerogative to govern all aspects of life and worship.

* [Matthew 12:8](/matthew/12-8 "Parallel Account of Jesus as Lord of the Sabbath")
* [Luke 6:5](/luke/6-5 "Parallel Account of Jesus as Lord of the Sabbath")
* [Colossians 2:16-17](/colossians/2-16-17 "Sabbath as a Shadow of Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Mark 2:28 challenges believers to re-evaluate their understanding of rules, traditions, and divine commands in light of Jesus' ultimate authority and compassionate heart. It calls us away from a rigid, legalistic adherence to external regulations for their own sake and towards a spirit of love, mercy, and human flourishing that Jesus embodies. As Lord of the Sabbath, Jesus invites us to find our true rest, not in the observance of a specific day or a list of do's and don'ts, but in a relationship with Him. Our faith should prioritize the spirit of God's law—love for God and neighbor—over the letter, ensuring that our practices are life-giving and liberating, rather than burdensome. This verse reminds us that Jesus' lordship extends to every area of our lives, calling us to submit all our traditions, practices, and even our understanding of holiness to His sovereign will and loving purpose.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life might you be prioritizing rigid rules or human traditions over the spirit of God's law and the compassionate heart of Jesus?**
* **How does understanding Jesus as "Lord of the Sabbath" change your perspective on rest, work, and worship?**
* **What does it mean to find your ultimate "rest" in Christ, rather than in external observances?**

### FAQ
**What does "Son of Man" mean in this context?**

Answer: The title "Son of Man" (Greek: _huios tou anthrōpou_) is Jesus' most frequent self-designation in the Gospels. In this context, it carries a dual meaning. Firstly, it emphasizes Jesus' genuine humanity, connecting Him to the human experience. Secondly, and more profoundly, it alludes to the authoritative, heavenly figure described in [Daniel 7:13-14](/daniel/7-13-14 "Daniel 7:13-14 - The Son of Man Coming with the Clouds"), who receives dominion, glory, and an everlasting kingdom. By using this title, Jesus subtly but powerfully asserts His divine authority and messianic identity, indicating that He is the one appointed by God to rule and to interpret divine law.

**Why was Jesus' declaration so controversial to the Pharisees?**

Answer: Jesus' declaration was deeply controversial because it challenged the Pharisees' understanding of divine authority and the Sabbath's sanctity. For them, the Sabbath was a direct commandment from God, meticulously defined by centuries of tradition. By declaring Himself "Lord of the Sabbath," Jesus was essentially claiming an authority equal to or even superior to God's law, implying He had the right to redefine or even supersede its traditional interpretations. This was perceived as blasphemous and a direct affront to their religious authority and the Mosaic Law itself, leading to their increased opposition as seen in [Mark 3:6](/mark/3-6 "Mark 3:6 - Pharisees Plot Against Jesus").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Mark 2:28 stands as a pivotal Christological declaration, revealing Jesus as the ultimate fulfillment and true meaning of the Sabbath. The Old Testament Sabbath, a day of rest and cessation from labor, was a shadow pointing to a greater reality. In Christ, we find the substance. As "Lord of the Sabbath," Jesus is not merely an interpreter of the law but its very embodiment and master. He provides the true rest that the Sabbath foreshadowed, inviting us to cease from our own works and find spiritual peace and completion in Him ([Hebrews 4:9-10](/hebrews/4-9-10 "Hebrews 4:9-10 - The Rest of God's People")). He liberates us from the burden of legalism, demonstrating that the law, including the Sabbath, was given for humanity's benefit, not as an oppressive yoke. His lordship over the Sabbath foreshadows His ultimate authority over all creation and every aspect of God's redemptive plan, culminating in His atoning sacrifice that brings ultimate rest from the striving of sin ([Matthew 11:28-30](/matthew/11-28-30 "Matthew 11:28-30 - Come to Me, All Who Are Weary")). Thus, the Sabbath finds its perfect and compassionate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, the one who is Lord of all.

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 12:8

For the Son of man is Lord even of the sabbath day.

Revelation 1:10

I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet,

John 9:14

And it was the sabbath day when Jesus made the clay, and opened his eyes.

Luke 6:5

And he said unto them, That the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath.

Ephesians 1:22

And hath put all [things] under his feet, and gave him [to be] the head over all [things] to the church,

John 5:17

¶ But Jesus answered them, My Father worketh hitherto, and I work.

Mark 3:4

And he saith unto them, Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath days, or to do evil? to save life, or to kill? But they held their peace.