Mark 10:10

And in the house his disciples asked him again of the same [matter].

And {G2532} in {G1722} the house {G3614} his {G846} disciples {G3101} asked {G1905} him {G846} again {G3825} of {G4012} the same {G846} matter.

When they were indoors once more, the talmidim asked him about this.

When they were back inside the house, the disciples asked Jesus about this matter.

And in the house the disciples asked him again of this matter.

Commentary

Mark 10:10 finds Jesus and His disciples in a private setting, likely a home, immediately after a public discourse on the sensitive topic of marriage and divorce. This verse highlights the disciples' persistent need for clarification and Jesus' patient willingness to provide further instruction away from the crowds.

Context

This verse directly follows Jesus' teaching on divorce in Mark 10:1-9, where He challenges the prevailing interpretations of Mosaic Law regarding divorce, particularly from the Pharisees. The Pharisees had questioned Him about the lawfulness of a man divorcing his wife, and Jesus responded by pointing back to the creation ordinance of marriage as a lifelong union (Genesis 2:24). The disciples, accustomed to the more lenient divorce practices of their time, were evidently perplexed or troubled by Jesus' strict stance. Their asking Him "again of the same matter" indicates a desire for deeper understanding or perhaps even a challenge to His teaching, underscoring the revolutionary nature of His words on this subject.

Key Themes

  • Disciples' Confusion and Curiosity: The disciples often struggled to grasp the full implications of Jesus' teachings, especially when they challenged deeply ingrained cultural norms. Their private inquiry here shows their earnestness to understand, despite their initial bewilderment.
  • Jesus' Private Instruction: Jesus frequently used private moments to explain complex truths more fully to His inner circle. This demonstrates His commitment to nurturing His disciples' spiritual growth and providing personalized teaching beyond public sermons, as seen when He explained parables to them (Mark 4:34).
  • The Sanctity of Marriage: While not explicitly stated in this verse, the "matter" refers to the indissolubility of marriage, a foundational teaching of Jesus that contrasts sharply with the ease of divorce in that era. This teaching underscores the divine institution of marriage as a sacred covenant.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "the same [matter]" translates the Greek word pragma (πρᾶγμα), which simply means "a thing," "an affair," or "a business." In this context, it refers specifically to the subject of divorce that Jesus had just discussed. There isn't a complex linguistic nuance here, but the use of "again" (πάλιν - *palin*) emphasizes the disciples' repeated engagement with this difficult teaching, indicating either their continued confusion or their desire for more detailed instruction.

Practical Application

Mark 10:10 offers several lessons for believers today:

  • Seek Clarification: It is natural to be confused by difficult biblical passages or teachings that challenge our worldview. Like the disciples, we should not hesitate to seek deeper understanding through prayer, study, and wise counsel.
  • Value Private Study: While public teaching is vital, profound spiritual growth often occurs in private, reflective moments with God's Word, allowing for deeper assimilation and application of truth.
  • Patience in Teaching: Jesus' patience with His disciples, even when they struggled with basic concepts, serves as a model for all who teach or mentor others.
  • Embrace Challenging Truths: Some of Jesus' teachings are counter-cultural and challenging. This verse reminds us that true discipleship involves wrestling with and ultimately submitting to these truths, even when they are difficult to accept.
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Cross-References

  • Mark 9:33 (3 votes)

    And he came to Capernaum: and being in the house he asked them, What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way?

  • Mark 9:28 (2 votes)

    And when he was come into the house, his disciples asked him privately, Why could not we cast him out?

  • Mark 4:10 (2 votes)

    And when he was alone, they that were about him with the twelve asked of him the parable.