Mark 10:48

And many charged him that he should hold his peace: but he cried the more a great deal, [Thou] Son of David, have mercy on me.

And {G2532} many {G4183} charged {G2008} him {G846} that {G2443} he should hold his peace {G4623}: but {G1161} he cried {G2896} the more {G3123} a great deal {G4183}, Thou Son {G5207} of David {G1138}, have mercy {G1653} on me {G3165}.

Many people scolded him and told him to be quiet, but he shouted all the louder, "Son of David! Have pity on me!"

Many people admonished him to be silent, but he cried out all the louder, “Son of David, have mercy on me!”

And many rebuked him, that he should hold his peace: but he cried out the more a great deal, Thou son of David, have mercy on me.

Commentary

Mark 10:48 is a powerful moment in the narrative of blind Bartimaeus, a beggar who demonstrates extraordinary faith and persistence. This verse captures the critical juncture where, despite attempts by the crowd to silence him, Bartimaeus intensifies his plea to Jesus.

Context

This event occurs as Jesus and His disciples are leaving Jericho on their final journey to Jerusalem, a path that would lead to His crucifixion and resurrection. A large crowd accompanies them. Bartimaeus, identified as "the son of Timaeus," is a blind beggar sitting by the roadside. Upon hearing that Jesus of Nazareth is passing by, he begins to cry out for mercy, which is met with rebuke from many in the crowd who found his cries disruptive.

Key Themes

  • Persistent Faith: Bartimaeus's unwavering determination is central. Even when rebuked by "many," he refused to be silenced, demonstrating a deep conviction that Jesus was his only hope. His cry "the more a great deal" highlights his unyielding resolve.
  • Messianic Acknowledgment: His address, "Thou Son of David," is a profoundly significant messianic title. By using this, Bartimaeus acknowledges Jesus not merely as a prophet or healer, but as the long-awaited Messiah, the heir to King David's throne, who was prophesied to bring deliverance and healing. This insight contrasts sharply with the spiritual blindness of the crowd. For more on this title, see Mark 12:35.
  • Jesus's Compassion and Authority: Despite the crowd's efforts to quiet Bartimaeus, Jesus stops and calls for him (Mark 10:49). This highlights Jesus's divine authority and His boundless compassion for the marginalized and those in genuine need.
  • Overcoming Obstacles: Bartimaeus's cry was an act of pushing through social pressure and physical limitations. His persistence serves as an example of not letting others deter one from seeking God.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "Son of David" (Greek: Huios Dauid) is not just a familial reference but a loaded theological term. It signifies belief in Jesus's royal lineage and His role as the promised Messiah. The emphasis on Bartimaeus crying "the more a great deal" (Greek: krazō pollō mallon) underscores the intensity and desperation of his plea, reflecting a faith that would not be denied.

Practical Application

Mark 10:48 offers several timeless lessons:

  • Persistence in Prayer: Do not be discouraged by obstacles or the criticism of others when seeking God's intervention. Your fervent prayer can break through barriers.
  • Bold Faith: Like Bartimaeus, we are called to boldly declare our needs and acknowledge Jesus's true identity and authority.
  • Hope for the Marginalized: This narrative assures us that Jesus hears the cries of the overlooked and those in desperate situations, offering hope and healing.

Bartimaeus's story is a powerful reminder that genuine faith, expressed with persistence, captures the attention of our compassionate Savior, leading to transformative encounters.

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Cross-References

  • Mark 7:26 (2 votes)

    The woman was a Greek, a Syrophenician by nation; and she besought him that he would cast forth the devil out of her daughter.

  • Mark 7:29 (2 votes)

    And he said unto her, For this saying go thy way; the devil is gone out of thy daughter.

  • Psalms 62:12 (2 votes)

    Also unto thee, O Lord, [belongeth] mercy: for thou renderest to every man according to his work.

  • Matthew 19:13 (2 votes)

    ¶ Then were there brought unto him little children, that he should put [his] hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them.

  • Luke 18:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ And he spake a parable unto them [to this end], that men ought always to pray, and not to faint;

  • Luke 18:8 (2 votes)

    I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?

  • Mark 5:35 (2 votes)

    ¶ While he yet spake, there came from the ruler of the synagogue's [house certain] which said, Thy daughter is dead: why troublest thou the Master any further?