Rejection and the twelve's mission
Mark 6:1–13FocusUnbelief and sending
Connection to the wholeRejection in Jesus' own country is followed by the disciples' mission, showing that opposition does not end the work.
interpretation Mark 6:46
KJVAnd when he had sent them away, he departed into a mountain to pray.
Read it in context
The crossing and further healing
Start reading at Mark 6:45 (Mark 6:45 to Mark 6:56).
An editorial reading unit, not a claim that the surrounding context stops here. Book background below applies to the shared passage; individual verses may need more specific explanation.
Jesus' coming across the water exposes the disciples' lack of understanding, while people on shore continue to seek His help.
- 6:45 And straightway he constrained his disciples to get into the ship, and to go to the other side before unto Bethsaida, while he sent away the people.
- 6:46 And when he had sent them away, he departed into a mountain to pray.
- 6:47 And when even was come, the ship was in the midst of the sea, and he alone on the land.
- 6:48 And he saw them toiling in rowing; for the wind was contrary unto them: and about the fourth watch of the night he cometh unto them, walking upon the sea, and would have passed by them.
- 6:49 But when they saw him walking upon the sea, they supposed it had been a spirit, and cried out:
- 6:50 For they all saw him, and were troubled. And immediately he talked with them, and saith unto them, Be of good cheer: it is I; be not afraid.
- 6:51 And he went up unto them into the ship; and the wind ceased: and they were sore amazed in themselves beyond measure, and wondered.
- 6:52 For they considered not the miracle of the loaves: for their heart was hardened.
- 6:53 And when they had passed over, they came into the land of Gennesaret, and drew to the shore.
- 6:54 And when they were come out of the ship, straightway they knew him,
- 6:55 And ran through that whole region round about, and began to carry about in beds those that were sick, where they heard he was.
- 6:56 And whithersoever he entered, into villages, or cities, or country, they laid the sick in the streets, and besought him that they might touch if it were but the border of his garment: and as many as touched him were made whole.
Who
- Who wrote the book? Mark, traditionally identified as John Mark and associated with Peter's preaching, is the author named by early church testimony. Biblical references: Acts 12:12; 1 Peter 5:13. Historical source: Irenaeus, Against Heresies 3.1.1; Anchor Bible Dictionary, Mark, Gospel of. traditionally held
- Who was present or being addressed in this passage? In the surrounding chapter context (Mark 6:1–6:56): Jesus teaches in His own country and sends out the twelve. Herod and John's death are recounted; the apostles and crowds appear in the feeding and sea-crossing accounts. stated in the text
- Who was the book written to? Readers who needed explanations of Jewish customs and Aramaic words, indicating a substantial Gentile audience. An association with Rome is early tradition, not an explicit address in the Gospel. Biblical references: Mark 5:41; Mark 7:3; Mark 7:4. Historical source: Anchor Bible Dictionary, Mark, Gospel of. book background
What
- What is the topic of this reading unit? The crossing and further healing. Read Mark 6:45 through Mark 6:56 as a connected unit. interpretation
- How does it contribute to the book? Jesus' coming across the water exposes the disciples' lack of understanding, while people on shore continue to seek His help. interpretation
When
- When are the events or message set? The account begins with John the Baptist and follows Jesus' public ministry through His death and resurrection. It does not give a composition date. book background
Where
- What is the book’s geographic setting? Galilee, surrounding regions, the journey toward Jerusalem, and Jerusalem form the main narrative movement. book background
- Where does the context start? This passage sits in The crossing and further healing (Mark 6:45 to Mark 6:56). Start reading at Mark 6:45. An editorial reading unit, not a claim that the surrounding context stops here. Book background below applies to the shared passage; individual verses may need more specific explanation.
How
- How does this book connect with Jesus Christ? Mark explicitly presents the gospel of Jesus Christ and connects His service with giving His life a ransom for many. His identity and the call to follow Him shape the narrative. See Mark 1:1, Mark 8:34, Mark 10:45. interpretation
- How should this book guide our response? Follow Jesus with obedient service rather than status-seeking. Read predictions of suffering and calls to discipleship alongside accounts of power and deliverance. interpretation
Cited: Mark 6:45, Mark 6:56, Mark 1:1, Mark 8:34, Mark 10:45
Who wrote it, and how we know
John Mark, recording Peter's preaching (traditional)
From early tradition
What Scripture saysThe book does not name its author.
Early traditionPapias, quoting an earlier elder, records that Mark wrote down Peter's preaching accurately.
What is debatedThe name is not in the text.
Other accounts of this event
Jesus walks on the sea
Parallel accounts
These passages describe overlapping parts of the same event. Each account retains its own wording and emphasis.
Related passages
- And when he had sent them away, he depart… Mark 1:35 Matt 6:6 Luke 6:12 1 Pet 2:21
Cross references from CrossReferences-org (CC BY 4.0).
Macro-Structure
See how this passage fits the chapter and the book.
Mark 6
This Gospel identifies its subject as Jesus Christ, the Son of God, and follows His ministry toward the cross and resurrection. No particular original recipient is named in its opening.
John's death recalled
Mark 6:14–29FocusThe cost of speaking truth
Connection to the wholeHerod's response to reports about Jesus introduces the account of John's death and the dangers confronting God's messengers.
interpretation The crowd is fed
Mark 6:30–44FocusCompassion and provision
Connection to the wholeJesus receives the returning apostles, teaches the crowd, and provides food through the disciples despite their limited resources.
interpretation FocusIncomplete understanding
Connection to the wholeJesus' coming across the water exposes the disciples' lack of understanding, while people on shore continue to seek His help.
interpretation Suggested literary divisions. Headings summarize the passage; they are not part of the biblical text.
Mark
This Gospel identifies its subject as Jesus Christ, the Son of God, and follows His ministry toward the cross and resurrection. No particular original recipient is named in its opening.
The ministry prepared
Mark 1:1–13FocusJohn, baptism, and temptation
Connection to the wholeThe brief opening introduces Jesus and His forerunner, moving rapidly toward the proclamation of the kingdom.
interpretation Authority and opposition
Mark 1:14–3:6FocusTeaching, deliverance, and conflict
Connection to the wholeJesus' works and teaching draw followers while controversies bring the first explicit plot against Him.
interpretation FocusDisciples, crowds, and understanding
Connection to the wholeTeaching, mighty works, and varied responses repeatedly expose both Jesus' authority and the disciples' difficulty understanding.
interpretation The way to Jerusalem
Mark 8:27–10:52FocusThe Messiah's suffering and following
Connection to the wholePeter's confession is followed by repeated passion predictions and teaching that redefines greatness and discipleship through service.
interpretation Jerusalem and coming judgment
Mark 11:1–13:37FocusTemple conflict and watchfulness
Connection to the wholeJesus' actions and disputes in Jerusalem lead into His teaching about coming troubles and the command to watch.
interpretation Passion and resurrection
Mark 14:1–16:20FocusDeath, the empty tomb, and proclamation
Connection to the wholeBetrayal, trial, and crucifixion lead to the resurrection proclamation and commission recorded in the KJV's final chapter.
interpretation Suggested literary divisions. Headings summarize the passage; they are not part of the biblical text.