Mark 9:36

And he took a child, and set him in the midst of them: and when he had taken him in his arms, he said unto them,

And {G2532} he took {G2983} a child {G3813}, and set {G2476} him {G846} in {G1722} the midst {G3319} of them {G846}: and {G2532} when he had taken {G1723} him {G846} in his arms {G1723}, he said {G2036} unto them {G846},

He took a child and stood him among them. Then he put his arms around him and said to them,

Then He had a little child stand among them. Taking the child in His arms, He said to them,

And he took a little child, and set him in the midst of them: and taking him in his arms, he said unto them,

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Commentary

Context

This verse immediately follows a private discussion among Jesus' disciples about who was the greatest (Mark 9:33-34). Jesus, knowing their thoughts, uses this moment to teach a profound lesson on true greatness in the Kingdom of God. Instead of directly rebuking them, He provides a powerful object lesson, shifting the focus from worldly ambition to divine humility. This act sets the stage for Jesus' subsequent teaching in Mark 9:37 about receiving those who are humble.

Key Themes

  • Humility as True Greatness: Jesus demonstrates that greatness in God's eyes is not found in status or power, but in humility. By placing a child, a figure of dependence and low social standing in that culture, in the center, He challenges the disciples' worldly understanding of hierarchy.
  • Valuing the Vulnerable: The act of taking the child in His arms highlights Jesus' profound love and regard for the weak, the innocent, and those often overlooked by society. This teaches His followers to prioritize and care for the most vulnerable among them.
  • Receiving Christ Through Others: Although the full teaching comes in the next verse, this action sets the stage for the idea that welcoming the least among us is equivalent to welcoming Christ Himself. This is a foundational principle of Christian discipleship.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "child" here is paidion (παιδίον), which refers to a young child, often emphasizing their innocence, dependence, and lack of social status. Jesus' actions—taking the child and setting him "in the midst" (ἐν μέσῳ, en mesō), meaning in the center of their attention—were highly symbolic. His subsequent act of "taking him in his arms" (ἐναγκαλισάμενος, enankalisamenos) conveys a tender, affectionate embrace, underscoring the deep value and protection He offers to the vulnerable, in stark contrast to the disciples' self-serving discussion.

Practical Application

Mark 9:36 calls believers to radical humility and a re-evaluation of what truly matters. In a world that often values power, influence, and self-promotion, Jesus' example reminds us that true spiritual stature comes from identifying with and serving the humble. It challenges us to:

  • Embrace Humility: Recognize that dependence on God, like a child's dependence on a parent, is the path to spiritual growth and true greatness in God's kingdom. This contrasts sharply with the disciples' desire for preeminence, as seen in Jesus' earlier teaching in Mark 9:35.
  • Value the Overlooked: Seek out and care for those who are marginalized, vulnerable, or considered "least" in society or within the church.
  • Serve Selflessly: Understand that genuine service to others, especially to the humble, is a direct act of service to Christ Himself.

This verse serves as a timeless reminder that the values of God's Kingdom often stand in direct opposition to the values of the world.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Mark 10:16

    And he took them up in his arms, put [his] hands upon them, and blessed them.

  • Matthew 19:14

    But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.

  • Matthew 19:15

    And he laid [his] hands on them, and departed thence.

  • Matthew 18:2

    And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them,
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