Mark 5:40

Mark 5:40 describes a pivotal moment in the miracle of Jairus's daughter, highlighting the stark contrast between human disbelief and divine power. As Jesus prepared to perform one of His most profound miracles, He encountered scorn from those who had given up hope.

Context

This verse is part of the dramatic narrative of Jairus, a synagogue ruler, pleading with Jesus to heal his dying daughter. On their way, Jesus was delayed by the healing of the woman with an issue of blood. While Jesus was still speaking with her, messengers arrived with the grim news that Jairus’s daughter had died (Mark 5:35). Despite this devastating news, Jesus immediately encouraged Jairus, saying, "Be not afraid, only believe" (Mark 5:36). Upon arriving at Jairus's house, they found a chaotic scene of weeping and wailing, typical of a Jewish mourning house. When Jesus declared, "The damsel is not dead, but sleepeth," the professional mourners and onlookers responded with derisive laughter, mocking His words because they believed death was final. In response to their scorn, Jesus took decisive action, removing everyone except the girl's parents and His inner circle of Peter, James, and John, before proceeding to the girl's bedside.

Key Themes

• Disbelief vs. Faith: The verse vividly contrasts the crowd's scoffing unbelief with Jesus's unwavering faith and call for Jairus to "only believe." Their laughter underscores the human tendency to doubt divine intervention in seemingly hopeless situations.
• Jesus's Authority Over Death: By putting out the mockers, Jesus asserts His authority, creating an environment conducive to the demonstration of His power over life and death. This act sets the stage for the miraculous resurrection.
• Exclusion of Mockery: Jesus deliberately removes those whose scornful attitude would impede the spiritual atmosphere necessary for a miracle. This suggests that a cynical or unbelieving spirit can hinder God's work.
• Privacy in Miracles: Jesus often chose to perform profound miracles, particularly those involving resurrection, in a more private setting, allowing only a select few to witness the raw power of God.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "laughed him to scorn" is translated from the Greek word katagelao (καταγελάω), which means "to laugh down," "to ridicule thoroughly," or "to mock with contempt." This isn't just lighthearted amusement but deep-seated derision, indicating their absolute certainty that the girl was dead and Jesus's words were foolish. Jesus's action to "put them all out" comes from the Greek ekballo (ἐκβάλλω), a strong verb often used for casting out demons or expelling, emphasizing a forceful and authoritative removal, asserting His control over the situation and the spiritual climate.

Practical Application

Mark 5:40 offers several powerful lessons for believers today:

• Cultivate an Environment of Faith: Just as Jesus removed the mockers, we are called to protect our spiritual environment from negativity, doubt, and cynical voices, especially when we are seeking God for a breakthrough or miracle.
• Persevere in Belief: Even when circumstances seem dire and others scoff, the call to "only believe" remains paramount. Our faith in Jesus's power should not be swayed by the disbelief of others.
• Jesus's Power is Absolute: This verse reminds us that Jesus has ultimate authority, even over death. No situation is too far gone for Him to intervene.
• Discernment in Sharing: Sometimes, the most profound spiritual experiences are best shared only with those who will support and believe, rather than mock or hinder.