The Book of Mark

THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO



MARK

CHAPTER 1 “You are my Son, whom I l ove; with

1 The beginning of the gospel you I am well pleased.”

about Jesus Christ, the Son of God. 12 At once the Spirit sent him out

[Some manuscripts: do not have the into the desert,

Son of God.] 13 and he was in the desert for fo r-

2 It is written in Isaiah the prophet: ty days, being tempted by Satan. He

“I will send my messenger ahead of was with the wild animals, and a n-

you, who will prepare you r way” — gels attended him.

[Mal. 3:1] 14 After John was put in prison, J e-

3 “a voice of one calling in the sus went into Galilee, proclaiming

desert, `Prepare the way for the the good news of God.

Lord, make straight paths for him.’“ 15 “The time has come,” he said.

[Isaiah 40:3] “The kingdom of God is near. R e-

4 And so John came, baptising in pent and believe the good news!”

the desert region and preaching a 16 As Jesus walked beside the Sea

baptism of repentance for the fo r- of Galilee, he saw Simon and his

giveness of sins. brother Andrew casting a net into

5 The whole Judean countryside the lake, for they were fishermen.

and all the people of Jerusalem went 17 “Come, follow me,” Jesus said,

out to him. Confessing their sins, “and I will make you fishers of

they were baptised by him in the men.”

Jordan River. 18 At once they left their nets and

6 John wore clothing made of c a- followed him.

mel’s hair, with a leather belt round 19 When he had gone a little farth-

his waist, and he ate locusts and er, he saw James son of Zebedee and

wild honey. his brother John in a boat, pr eparing

7 And this was his message: “After their nets.

me will come one more powerful 20 Without delay he called them,

than I, the thongs of whose sandals I and they left their father Zebedee in

am not worthy to stoop down and the boat with the hired men and fo l-

untie. lowed him.

8 I baptise you with [Or in] water, 21 They went to Capernaum, and

but he will baptise you with the H o- when the Sabbath came, Jesus went

ly Spirit.” into the synagogue and began to

9 At that time Jesus came from Na- teach.

zareth in Galilee and was baptised 22 The people were amazed at his

by John in the Jordan. teaching, because he taught them as

10 As Jesus was coming up out of one who had authority, not as the

the water, he saw heaven being torn teachers of the law.

open and the Spirit descending on 23 Just then a man in their syn ago-

him like a dove. gue who was possessed by an evil

11 And a voice came from heaven: [Greek: unclean; also in verses 26





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and 27] spirit cried out, where else — to the nearby villages

24 “What do you want with us, Je- — so that I can preach there also.

sus of Nazareth? Have you come to That is why I have come.”

destroy us? I know who you are — 39 So he travelled throughout Gal i-

the Holy One of God!” lee, preaching in their synagogues

25 “Be quiet!” said Jesus sternly. and driving out demons.

“Come out of him!” 40 A man with leprosy [The Greek

26 The evil spirit shook the man word was used for various diseases

violently and came out of him with affecting the skin — not necessarily

a shriek. leprosy.] came to him and begged

27 The people were all so amazed him on his knees, “If you are wil l-

that they asked each other, “What is ing, you can make me clean.”

this? A new teaching — and with 41 Filled with compassion, Jesus

authority! He even gives orders to reached out his hand and touched

evil spirits and they obey him.” the man. “I am willing,” he said.

28 News about him spread quickly “Be clean!”

over the whole region of Galilee. 42 Immediately the leprosy left him

29 As soon as they left the syn ago- and he was cured.

gue, they went with James and John 43 Jesus sent him away at once

to the home of Simon and A ndrew. with a strong warning:

30 Simon’s mother-in-law was in 44 “See that you don’t tell this to

bed with a fever, and they told Jesus anyone. But go, show yourself to

about her. the priest and offer the sacrifices

31 So he went to her, took her hand that Moses commanded for your

and helped her up. The fever left her cleansing, as a testimony to them.”

and she began to wait on them. 45 Instead he went out and began

32 That evening after sunset the to talk freely, spreading the news.

people brought to Jesus all the sick As a result, Jesus could no longer

and demon-possessed. enter a town openly but stayed ou t-

33 The whole town gathered at the side in lonely places. Yet the p eople

door, still came to him from everywhere.

34 and Jesus healed many who had

various diseases. He also drove out CHAPTER 2

many demons, but he would not let 1 A few days later, when Jesus

the demons speak becau se they again entered Capernaum, the

knew who he was. people heard that he had come

35 Very early in the morning, while home.

it was still dark, Jesus got up, left 2 So many gathered that there was

the house and went off to a solitary no room left, not even outside the

place, where he prayed. door, and he preached the word to

36 Simon and his companions went them.

to look for him, 3 Some men came, bringing to him

37 and when they found him, they a paralytic, carried by four of them.

exclaimed: “Everyone is looking for 4 Since they could not get him to

you!” Jesus because of the crowd, they

38 Jesus replied, “Let us go som e- made an opening in the roof above







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Jesus and, after digging through it, who were Pharisees saw him eating

lowered the mat the paralysed man with the “sinners” and tax colle c-

was lying on. tors, they asked his disciples: “Why

5 When Jesus saw their faith, he does he eat with tax collectors and

said to the paralytic, “Son, your sins `sinners’?”

are forgiven.” 17 On hearing this, Jesus said to

6 Now some teachers of the law them, “It is not the healthy who

were sitting there, thinking to the m- need a doctor, but the sick. I have

selves, not come to call the righteous, but

7 “Why does this fellow talk like sinners.”

that? He’s blaspheming! Who can 18 Now John’s disciples and the

forgive sins but God alone?” Pharisees were fasting. Some people

8 Immediately Jesus knew in his came and asked Jesus, “How is it

spirit that this was what they were that John’s disciples and the di s-

thinking in their hearts, and he said ciples of the Pharisees are fasting,

to them, “Why are you thinking but yours are not?”

these things? 19 Jesus answered, “How can the

9 Which is easier: to say to the p a- guests of the bridegroom fast while

ralytic, `Your sins are forgiven,’ or he is with them? They cannot, so

to say, `Get up, take your mat and long as they have him with them.

walk’? 20 But the time will come when the

10 But that you may know that the bridegroom will be taken from them,

Son of Man has authority on earth to and on that day they will fast.

forgive sins....” He said to the par a- 21 “No-one sews a patch of unsh-

lytic, runk cloth on an old garment. If he

11 “I tell you, get up, take your mat does, the new piece will pull away

and go home.” from the old, making the tear worse.

12 He got up, took his mat and 22 And no-one pours new wine into

walked out in full view of them al l. old wineskins. If he does, the wine

This amazed everyone and they will burst the skins, and both the

praised God, saying, “We have ne v- wine and the wineskins will be

er seen anything like this!” ruined. No, he pours new wine into

13 Once again Jesus went out b e- new wineskins.”

side the lake. A large crowd came to 23 One Sabbath Jesus was going

him, and he began to teach them. through the cornfields, and as his

14 As he walked along, he saw Levi disciples walked along, they began

son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax to pick some ears of corn.

collector ’s booth. “Follow me,” J e- 24 The Pharisees said to him,

sus told him, and Levi got up and “Look, why are they doing what is

followed him. unlawful on the Sabbath?”

15 While Jesus was having dinner 25 He answered, “Have you never

at Levi’s house, many tax collectors read what David did when he and

and “sinners” were eating with him his companions were hungry and in

and his disciples, for there were need?

many who followed him. 26 In the days of Abiathar the high

16 When the teachers of the law priest, he entered the house of God







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and ate the consecrated bread, 10 For he had healed many, so that

which is lawful only for priests to those with diseases were pushing

eat. And he also gave some to his forward to touch him.

companions.” 11 Whenever the evil [Greek: u n-

27 Then he said to them, “The Sa b- clean; also in verse 30] spirits saw

bath was made for man, not man for him, they fell down before him and

the Sabbath. cried out, “You are the Son of God.”

28 So the Son of Man is Lord even 12 But he gave them strict orders

of the Sabbath.” not to tell who he was.

13 Jesus went up on a mountainside

CHAPTER 3 and called to him those he wanted,

1 Another time he went into the and they came to him.

synagogue, and a man with a shri- 14 He appointed twelve — desig-

velled hand was there. nating them apostles — [Some ma-

2 Some of them were looking for a nuscripts: do not have designating

reason to accuse Jesus, so they them apostles.] that they might be

watched him closely to see if he with him and that he might send

would heal him on the Sabbath. them out to preach

3 Jesus said to the man with the 15 and to have authority to drive

shrivelled hand, “Stand up in front out demons.

of everyone.” 16 These are the twelve he a p-

4 Then Jesus asked them, “Which is pointed: Simon (to whom he gave

lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or the name Peter);

to do evil, to save life or to kill?” 17 James son of Zebedee and his

But they remained silent. brother John (to them he gave the

5 He looked round at them in anger name Boanerges, which means Sons

and, deeply distressed at their stu b- of Thunder);

born hearts, said to the man, 18 Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew,

“Stretch out your hand.” He Matthew, Thomas, James son of A l-

stretched it out, and his hand was phaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Ze a-

completely restored. lot

6 Then the Pharisees went out and 19 and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed

began to plot with the Herodians him.

how they might kill Jesus. 20 Then Jesus entered a house, and

7 Jesus withdrew with his disciples again a crowd gathered, so that he

to the lake, and a large crowd from and his disciples were not even able

Galilee followed. to eat.

8 When they heard all he was 21 When his family heard about

doing, many people came to him this, they went to take charge of

from Judea, Jerusalem, Idumea, and him, for they said, “He is out of his

the regions across the Jordan and mind.”

around Tyre and Sidon. 22 And the teachers of the law who

9 Because of the crowd he told his came down from Jerusalem said,

disciples to have a small boat ready “He is possessed by Beelzebub!

for him, to keep the people from [Greek: Beezeboul or Beelzeboul]

crowding him. By the prince of demons he is dri v-







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ing out demons.” shore at the water ’s edge.

23 So Jesus called them and spoke 2 He taught them many things by

to them in parables: “How can Satan parables, and in his teaching said:

drive out Satan? 3 “Listen! A farmer went out to

24 If a kingdom is divided against sow his seed.

itself, that kingdom cannot stand. 4 As he was scattering the seed,

25 If a house is divided against i t- some fell along the path, and the

self, that house cannot stand. birds came and ate it up.

26 And if Satan opposes himself 5 Some fell on rocky places, where

and is divided, he cannot stand; his it did not have much soil. It sprang

end has come. up quickly, because the soil was

27 In fact, no-one can enter a shallow.

strong man’s house and carry off his 6 But when the sun came up, the

possessions unless he first ties up plants were scorched, and they w i-

the strong man. Then he can rob his thered because they had no root.

house. 7 Other seed fell among thorns,

28 I tell you the truth, all the sins which grew up and choked the

and blasphemies of men will be fo r- plants, so that they did not bear

given them. grain.

29 But whoever blasphemes against 8 Still other seed fell on good soil.

the Holy Spirit will never be fo rgi- It came up, grew and produced a

ven; he is guilty of an eternal sin.” crop, multiplying thirty, sixty, or

30 He said this because they were even a hundred times.”

saying, “He has an evil spirit.” 9 Then Jesus said, “He who has

31 Then Jesus’ mother and brothers ears to hear, let him hear.”

arrived. Standing outside, they sent 10 When he was alone, the Twelve

someone in to call him. and the others around him asked him

32 A crowd was sitting around him, about the parables.

and they told him, “Your mother and 11 He told them, “The secret of t he

brothers are outside looking for kingdom of God has been given to

you.” you. But to those on the outside

33 “Who are my mother and my everything is said in parables

brothers?” he asked. 12 so that, “`they may be ever se e-

34 Then he looked at those seated ing but never perceiving, and ever

in a circle around him and said, hearing but never understanding;

“Here are my mother and my brot h- otherwise they might turn and be

ers! forgiven!’“ [Isaiah 6:9,10]

35 Whoever does God’s will is my 13 Then Jesus said to them, “Don’t

brother and sister and mother.” you understand this parable? How

then will you understand any pa ra-

CHAPTER 4 ble?

1 Again Jesus began to t each by the 14 The farmer sows the word.

lake. The crowd that gathered round 15 Some people are like seed along

him was so large that he got into a the path, where the word is sown.

boat and sat in it out on the lake, As soon as they hear it, Satan comes

while all the people were along the and takes away the word that was







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sown in them. 28 All by itself the soil produces

16 Others, like seed sown on rocky corn — first the stalk, then the ear,

places, hear the word and at once then the full grain in the ear.

receive it with joy. 29 As soon as the grain is ripe, he

17 But since they have no root, puts the sickle to it, because the

they last only a short time. When harvest has come.”

trouble or persecution comes b e- 30 Again he said, “What shall we

cause of the word, they quickly fall say the kingdom of God is like, or

away. what parable shall we use to d e-

18 Still others, like seed sown scribe it?

among thorns, hear the word; 31 It is like a mustard seed, which

19 but the worries of this life, the is the smallest seed you plant in the

deceitfulness of wealth and the d e- ground.

sires for other things come in and 32 Yet when planted, it grows and

choke the word, making it unfrui t- becomes the largest of all gar den

ful. plants, with such big branches that

20 Others, like seed sown on good the birds of the air can perch in its

soil, hear the word, accept it, and shade.”

produce a crop — thirty, sixty or 33 With many similar parables J e-

even a hundred times what was sus spoke the word to them, as much

sown.” as they could understand.

21 He said to them, “Do you bring 34 He did not say anything to them

in a lamp to put it under a bowl or a without using a parable. But when

bed? Instead, don’t you put it on its he was alone with his own disciples,

stand? he explained everything.

22 For whatever is hidden is meant 35 That day when evening came, he

to be disclosed, and whatever is said to his disciples, “Let us go over

concealed is meant to be brought to the other side.”

out into the open. 36 Leaving the crowd behind, they

23 If anyone has ears to hear, let took him along, just as he was, in

him hear.” the boat. There were also other

24 “Consider carefully what you boats with him.

hear,” he continued. “With the 37 A furious squall came up, and

measure you use, it will be meas- the waves broke over the boat, so

ured to you — and even more. that it was nearly swamped.

25 Whoever has will be given 38 Jesus was in the stern, sleeping

more; whoever does not have, even on a cushion. The disciples woke

what he has will be taken from him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t

him.” you care if we drown?”

26 He also said, “This is what the 39 He got up, rebuked the wind and

kingdom of God is like. A man sca t- said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!”

ters seed on the ground. Then the wind died down and it was

27 Night and day, whether he completely calm.

sleeps or gets up, the seed sprouts 40 He said to his disciples, “Why

and grows, though he does not know are you so afraid? Do you still have

how. no faith?”







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41 They were terrified and asked the evil spirits came out and went

each other, “Who is this? Even the into the pigs. The herd, about two

wind and the waves obey him!” thousand in number, rushed down

the steep bank into the lake and

CHAPTER 5 were drowned.

1 They went across the lake to the 14 Those tending the pigs ran off

region of the Gerasenes. [Some m a- and reported this in the town and

nuscripts: Gadarenes; other man u- countryside, and the people went

scripts Gergesenes] out to see what had happened.

2 When Jesus got out of the boat, a 15 When they came to Jesus, they

man with an evil [Greek: unclean; saw the man who had been po s-

also in verses 8 an d 13] spirit came sessed by the legion of demons, si t-

from the tombs to meet him. ting there, dressed and in his right

3 This man lived in the tombs, and mind; and they were afraid.

no-one could bind him any more, 16 Those who had seen it told the

not even with a chain. people what had happened to the

4 For he had often been chained demon-possessed man — and told

hand and foot, but he tore the chains about the pigs as well.

apart and broke the irons on his 17 Then the people began to plead

feet. No-one was strong enough to with Jesus to leave their region.

subdue him. 18 As Jesus was getting into the

5 Night and day among the tombs boat, the man who had been demon -

and in the hills he would cry out and possessed begged to go with him.

cut himself with stones. 19 Jesus did not let him, but sai d,

6 When he saw Jesus from a di s- “Go home to your family and tell

tance, he ran and fell on his knees them how much the Lord has done

in front of him. for you, and how he has had mercy

7 He shouted at the top of his on you.”

voice, “What do you want with me, 20 So the man went away and b e-

Jesus, Son of the Most High God? gan to tell in the Decapolis [That is,

Swear to God that you won’t torture the Ten Cities] how much Jesus had

me!” done for him. And all the people

8 For Jesus had said to him, “Come were amazed.

out of this man, you evil spirit!” 21 When Jesus had again crossed

9 Then Jesus asked him, “What is over by boat to the other side of the

your name?” “My name is Legion,” lake, a large crowd gathered round

he replied, “for we are many.” him while he was by the lake.

10 And he begged Jesus again and 22 Then one of the synagogue r u-

again not to send them out of the lers, named Jairus, came there. Se e-

area. ing Jesus, he fell at his feet

11 A large herd of pigs was feeding 23 and pleaded earnestly with him,

on the nearby hillside. “My little daughter is dying. Please

12 The demons begged Jesus, come and put your hands on her so

“Send us among the pigs; allow us that she will be healed and live.”

to go into them.” 24 So Jesus went with him. A large

13 He gave them permission, and crowd followed and pressed around







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him. commotion, with people crying and

25 And a woman was there who had wailing loudly.

been subject to bleeding for twelve 39 He went in and said to them,

years. “Why all this commotion and wai l-

26 She had suffered a great deal ing? The child is not dead but a s-

under the care of many doctors and leep.”

had spent all she had, yet instead of 40 But they laughed at him. After

getting better she grew worse. he put them all out, he took the

27 When she heard about Jesus, she child’s father and mother and the

came up behind him in the crowd disciples who were with him, and

and touched his cloak, went in where the child was.

28 because she thought, “If I just 41 He took her by the hand and

touch his clothes, I will be healed.” said to her, “Talitha koum!” (which

29 Immediately her bleeding means, “Little girl, I say to you, get

stopped and she felt in her body that up!”).

she was freed from her suffering. 42 Immediately the girl stood up

30 At once Jesus realised that po w- and walked around (she was twelve

er had gone out from him. He turned years old). At this they were co m-

around in the crowd and asked, pletely astonished.

“Who touched my clothes?” 43 He gave strict orders not to let

31 “You see the people crowding anyone know about this, and told

against you,” his disciples an s- them to give her something to eat.

wered, “and yet you can ask, `Who

touched me?’“ CHAPTER 6

32 But Jesus kept looking around to 1 Jesus left there and went to his

see who had done it. home town, accompanied by his di s-

33 Then the woman, knowing what ciples.

had happened to her, came and fell 2 When the Sabbath came, he began

at his feet and, trembling with fear, to teach in the synagogue, and many

told him the whole truth. who heard him were amazed.

34 He said to her, “Daughter, your “Where did this man get these

faith has healed you. Go in peace things?” they asked. “What’s this

and be freed from your suffering.” wisdom that has been given him,

35 While Jesus was still speaking, that he even does miracles!

some men came from the house of 3 Isn’t this the carpenter? Isn’t this

Jairus, the synagogue ruler. “Your Mary’s son and the brother of

daughter is dead,” they said. “Why James, Joseph, [Greek: Joses, a v a-

bother the teacher any more?” riant of Joseph] Judasand Simon?

36 Ignoring what they said, Jesus Aren’t his sisters here with us?”

told the synagogue ruler, “Don’t be And they took offence at him.

afraid; just believe.” 4 Jesus said to them, “Only in his

37 He did not let anyone follow home town, among his relatives and

him except Peter, James an d John in his own house is a prophet wit h-

the brother of James. out honour.”

38 When they came to the home of 5 He could not do any miracles

the synagogue ruler, Jesus saw a there, except lay his hands on a few







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MARK







sick people and heal them. rod, “It is not lawful for you to have

6 And he was amazed at their lack your brother ’s wife.”

of faith. Then Jesus went round 19 So Herodias nursed a grudge

teaching from village to village. against John and wanted to kill him.

7 Calling the Twelve to him, he But she was not able to,

sent them out two by two and gave 20 because Herod feared John and

them authority over evil [Greek: u n- protected him, knowing him to be a

clean] spirits. righteous and holy man. When H e-

8 These were his instructions: rod heard John, he was greatly pu z-

“Take nothing for the journey e x- zled; [Some early manuscripts he

cept a staff — no bread, no bag, no did many things] yet he liked to li s-

money in your belts. ten to him.

9 Wear sandals but not an extra 21 Finally the opportune time

tunic. came. On his birthday Herod gave a

10 Whenever you enter a house, banquet for his high officials and

stay there until you leave that town. military commanders and the lea d-

11 And if any place will not wel- ing men of Galilee.

come you or listen to you, shake the 22 When the daughter of Herodias

dust off your feet when you leave, came in and danced, she pleased H e-

as a testimony against them.” rod and his dinner guests. The king

12 They went out and preached that said to the girl, “Ask me for an y-

people should repent. thing you want, and I’ll give it to

13 They drove out many demons you.”

and anointed many sick people with 23 And he promised her with an

oil and healed them. oath, “Whatever you ask I will give

14 King Herod heard about this, for you, up to half my kingdom.”

Jesus’ name had become well 24 She went out and said to her

known. Some were saying, [Som e mother, “What shall I ask for?”

early manuscripts He was saying] “The head of John the Baptist,” she

“John the Baptist has been raised answered.

from the dead, and that is why mir a- 25 At once the girl hurried in to the

culous powers are at work in him.” king with the request: “I want you

15 Others said, “He is Elijah.” And to give me right now the head of

still others claimed, “He is a prop h- John the Baptist on a platter.”

et, like one of the prophets of long 26 The king was greatly distressed,

ago.” but because of his oaths and his

16 But when Herod heard this, he dinner guests, he did not want to

said, “John, the man I beheaded, has refuse her.

been raised from the dead!” 27 So he immediately sent an ex-

17 For Herod himself had given o r- ecutioner with orders to bring

ders to have John arrested, and he John’s head. The man went, b e-

had him bound and put in prison. He headed John in the prison,

did this because of Herodias, his 28 and brought back his head on a

brother Philip’s wife, whom he had platter. He presented it to the girl,

married. and she gave it to her mother.

18 For John had been saying to H e- 29 On hearing of this, John’s di s-







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ciples came and took his body and 41 Taking the five loaves and the

laid it in a tomb. two fish and looking up to heaven,

30 The apostles gathered round J e- he gave thanks and broke the loaves.

sus and reported to him all they had Then he gave them to his disciples

done and taught. to set before the people. He also d i-

31 Then, because so many people vided the two fish among them all.

were coming and going that they did 42 They all ate and were satisfied,

not even have a chance to eat, he 43 and the disciples picked up

said to them, “Come with me by twelve basketfuls of broken pieces

yourselves to a quiet place and get of bread and fish.

some rest.” 44 The number of the men who had

32 So they went away by the m- eaten was five thousand.

selves in a boat to a solitary place. 45 Immediately Jesus made his di s-

33 But many who saw them leaving ciples get into the boat and go on

recognised them and ran on foot ahead of him to Bethsaida, while he

from all the towns and got there dismissed the crowd.

ahead of them. 46 After leaving them, he went up

34 When Jesus landed and saw a on a mountainside to pray.

large crowd, he had compassion on 47 When evening came, the boat

them, because they were like sheep was in the middle of the lake, and

without a shepherd. So he began he was alone on land.

teaching them many things. 48 He saw the disciples straining at

35 By this time it was late in the the oars, because the wind was

day, so his disciples came to him. against them. About the fourth

“This is a remote place,” they said, watch of the night he went out to

“and it’s already very late. them, walking on the lake. He was

36 Send the people away so that about to pass by them,

they can go to the surrounding 49 but when they saw him walking

countryside and villages and buy on the lake, they thought he was a

themselves something to eat.” ghost. They cried out,

37 But he answered, “You give 50 because they all saw him and

them something to eat.” They said were terrified. Immediately he

to him, “That would take eight spoke to them and said, “Take co u-

months of a man’s wages! [Greek: rage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”

take two hundred denarii] Are we to 51 Then he climbed into the boat

go and spend that much on bread with them, and the wind died down.

and give it to them to eat?” They were completely amazed,

38 “How many loaves do you 52 for they had not understood

have?” he asked. “Go and see.” about the loaves; their hearts were

When they found out, they said, hardened.

“Five — and two fish.” 53 When they had crossed over,

39 Then Jesus directed them to they landed at Gennesaret and an c-

have all the people sit down in hored there.

groups on the green grass. 54 As soon as they got out of the

40 So they sat down in groups of boat, people recognised Jesus.

hundreds and fifties. 55 They ran throughout that whole







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region and carried the sick on mats 9 And he said to them: “You have a

to wherever they heard he was. fine way of setting aside the co m-

56 And wherever he went — into mands of God in order to observe

villages, towns or countryside — [Some manuscripts: set up] your

they placed the sick in the market - own traditions!

places. They begged him to let them 10 For Moses said, `Honour your

touch even the edge of his cloak, father and your mother,’ [Exodus

and all who touched him were 20:12; Deut. 5:16] and, `Anyone

healed. who curses his father or mother

must be put to death.’ [Exodus

CHAPTER 7 21:17; Lev. 20:9]

1 The Pharisees and some of the 11 But you say that if a man says to

teachers of the law who had come his father or mother: `Whatever help

from Jerusalem gathered round J e- you might otherwise have received

sus and from me is Corban’ (that is, a gift

2 saw some of his disciples eating devoted to God),

food with hands that were “un- 12 then you no longer let him do

clean”, that is, unwashed. anything for his father or mother.

3 (The Pharisees and all the Jews 13 Thus you nullify the word of

do not eat unless they give their God by your tradition that you have

hands a ceremonial washing, hol d- handed down. And you do many

ing to the tradition of the elders. things like that.”

4 When they come from the market - 14 Again Jesus called the crowd to

place they do not eat unless they him and said, “Listen to me, ever y-

wash. And they observe many other one, and understand this.

traditions, such as the washing of 15 Nothing outside a man can make

cups, pitchers and kettles.) [S ome him `unclean’ by going into him.

early manuscripts pitchers, kettles Rather, it is what comes out of a

and dining couches] man that makes him `unclean’.”

5 So the Pharisees and teachers of 16 [Some early manuscripts `u n-

the law asked Jesus, “Why don’t clean’. 16 If anyone has ears to

your disciples live according to the hear, let him hear.”]

tradition of the elders instead of 17 After he had left the crowd and

eating their food with `unclean’ entered the house, his disciples

hands?” asked him about this parable.

6 He replied, “Isaiah was right 18 “Are you so dull?” he asked.

when he prophesied about you h y- “Don’t you see that nothing that e n-

pocrites; as it is written: “`These ters a man from the outside can

people honour me with their lips, make him `unclean’?

but their hearts are far from me. 19 For it doesn’t go into his heart

7 They worship me in vain; their but into his stomach, and then out of

teachings are but rules taught by his body.” (In saying this, Jesus d e-

men.’ [Isaiah 29:13] clared all foods “clean”.)

8 You have let go of the commands 20 He went on: “What comes out of

of God and are holding on to the a man is what makes him `unclean’.

traditions of men.” 21 For from within, out of men’s







11

MARK







hearts, come evil thoughts, sexual spat and touched the man’s tongue.

immorality, theft, murder, adultery, 34 He looked up to heaven and with

22 greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, a deep sigh said to him, “ Ephpha-

envy, slander, arrogance and folly. tha!” (which means, “Be opened!”).

23 All these evils come from inside 35 At this, the man’s ears were

and make a man `unclean’.” opened, his tongue was loosened

24 Jesus left that place and went to and he began to speak plainly.

the vicinity of Tyr e. [Many early 36 Jesus commanded them not to

manuscripts Tyre and Sidon] He e n- tell anyone. But the more he did so,

tered a house and did not want an y- the more they kept talking about it.

one to know it; yet he could not 37 People were overwhelmed with

keep his presence secret. amazement. “He has done ever y-

25 In fact, as soon as she heard thing well,” they said. “He even

about him, a woman whose little makes the deaf hear and the mute

daughter was possessed by an evil speak.”

[Greek: unclean] spirit came and

fell at his feet. CHAPTER 8

26 The woman was a Greek, born in 1 During those days another large

Syrian Phoenicia. She begged Jesus crowd gathered. Since they had

to drive the demon out of her daug h- nothing to eat, Jesus called his di s-

ter. ciples to him and said,

27 “First let the children eat all 2 “I have compassion for these

they want,” he told her, “for it is not people; they have already been with

right to take the children’s bread me three days and have nothing to

and toss it to their dogs.” eat.

28 “Yes, Lord,” she replied, “but 3 If I send them home hungry, they

even the dogs under the table eat the will collapse on the way, because

children’s crumbs.” some of them have come a long di s-

29 Then he told her, “For such a tance.”

reply, you may go; the demon has 4 His disciples answered, “But

left your daughter.” where in this remote place can an y-

30 She went home and found her one get enough bread to feed them?”

child lying on the bed, and the de- 5 “How many loaves do you have?”

mon gone. Jesus asked. “Seven,” they replied.

31 Then Jesus left the vicinity of 6 He told the crowd to sit down on

Tyre and went through Sidon, down the ground. When he had taken the

to the Sea of Galilee and into the seven loaves and given thanks, he

region of the Decapolis. [That is, broke them and gave them to his

the Ten Cities] disciples to set before the people,

32 There some people brought to and they did so.

him a man who was deaf and could 7 They had a few small fish as

hardly talk, and they begged him to well; he gave thanks for them also

place his hand on the man. and told the disciples to distribute

33 After he took him aside, away them.

from the crowd, Jesus put his fi n- 8 The people ate and were sati s-

gers into the man’s ears. Then he fied. Afterwards the disciples







12

MARK







picked up seven basketfuls of bro- and begged Jesus to touch him.

ken pieces that were left over. 23 He took the blind man by the

9 About four thousand men were hand and led him outside the vi l-

present. And having sent them away, lage. When he had spat on the man’s

10 he got into the boat with his eyes and put his hands on him, Jesus

disciples and went to the region of asked, “Do you see anything?”

Dalmanutha. 24 He looked up and said, “I see

11 The Pharisees came and began people; they look like trees walking

to question Jesus. To test him, they around.”

asked him for a sign from heaven. 25 Once more Jesus put his hands

12 He sighed deeply and said, on the man’s eyes. Then his eyes

“Why does this generation ask for a were opened, his sight was restored,

miraculous sign? I tell you the truth, and he saw everything clearly.

no sign will be given to it.” 26 Jesus sent him home, saying,

13 Then he left them, got back into “Don’t go into the village.” [Some

the boat and crossed to the other manuscripts: Don’t go and tell an y-

side. one in the village]

14 The disciples had forgotten to 27 Jesus and his disciples went on

bring bread, except for one loaf they to the villages around Caesarea Ph i-

had with them in the boat. lippi. On the way he asked them,

15 “Be careful,” Jesus warned “Who do people say I am?”

them. “Watch out for the yeast of 28 They replied, “Some say John

the Pharisees and that of Herod.” the Baptist; others say Elijah; and

16 They discussed this with one still others, one of the prophets.”

another and said, “It is because we 29 “But what about you?” he asked.

have no bread.” “Who do you say I am?” Peter a ns-

17 Aware of their discussion, Jesus wered, “You are the Christ.” [Or

asked them: “Why are you talking Messiah. “The Christ” (Greek) and

about having no bread? Do you still “the Messiah” (Hebrew) both mean

not see or understand? Are your “the Anointed One”.]

hearts hardened? 30 Jesus warned them not to tell

18 Do you have eyes but fail to see, anyone about him.

and ears but fail to hear? An d don’t 31 He then began to teach them

you remember? that the Son of Man must suffer

19 When I broke the five loaves for many things and be rejected by the

the five thousand, how many baske t- elders, chief priests and teachers of

fuls of pieces did you pick up?” the law, and that he must be killed

“Twelve,” they replied. and after three days rise again.

20 “And when I broke the seven 32 He spoke plainly about this, and

loaves for the four thousand, how Peter took him aside and began to

many basketfuls of pieces did you rebuke him.

pick up?” They answered, “Seven.” 33 But when Jesus turned and

21 He said to them, “Do you still looked at his disciples, he rebuked

not understand?” Peter. “Get behind me, Sat an!” he

22 They came to Bethsaida, and said. “You do not have in mind the

some people brought a blind man things of God, but the things of







13

MARK







men.” they were so frightened.)

34 Then he called the crowd to him 7 Then a cloud appeared and env e-

along with his disciples and said: loped them, and a voice came from

“If anyone would come after me, he the cloud: “This is my Son, whom I

must deny himself and take up his love. Listen to him!”

cross and follow me. 8 Suddenly, when they looked

35 For whoever wants to save his round, they no longer saw anyone

life [The Greek word means either with them except Jesus.

life or soul; also in verse 36.] will 9 As they were coming down the

lose it, but whoever loses his life mountain, Jesus gave them orders

for me and for the gospel will save not to tell anyone what they had

it. seen until the Son of Man had risen

36 What good is it for a man to from the dead.

gain the whole world, yet forfeit his 10 They kept the matter to them-

soul? selves, discussing what “rising from

37 Or what can a man give in ex- the dead” meant.

change for his soul? 11 And they asked him, “Why do

38 If anyone is ashamed of me and the teachers of the law say that El i-

my words in this adulterous and si n- jah must come first?”

ful generation, the Son of Man will 12 Jesus replied, “To be sure, El i-

be ashamed of him when he comes jah does come first, and restores all

in his Father ’s glory with the holy things. Why then is it written that

angels.” the Son of Man must suffer much

and be rejected?

CHAPTER 9 13 But I tell you, Elijah has come,

1 And he said to them, “I tell you and they have done to him ever y-

the truth, some who are standing thing they wished, just as it is wri t-

here will not taste death before they ten about him.”

see the kingdom of God come with 14 When they came to the other

power.” disciples, they saw a large crowd

2 After six days Jesus took Peter, around them and the teachers of the

James and John with him and led law arguing with them.

them up a high mountain, where 15 As soon as all the people saw

they were all alone. There he was Jesus, they were overwhelmed with

transfigured before them. wonder and ran to greet him.

3 His clothes became dazzling 16 “What are you arguing with

white, whiter than anyone in the them about?” he asked.

world could bleach them. 17 A man in the crowd answered,

4 And there appeared before them “Teacher, I brought you my son,

Elijah and Moses, who were talking who is possessed by a spirit that has

with Jesus. robbed him of speech.

5 Peter said to Jesus, “Rabbi, it is 18 Whenever it seizes him, it

good for us to be here. Let us put up throws him to the ground. He foams

three shelters — one for you, one at the mouth, gnashes his teeth and

for Moses and one for Elijah.” becomes rigid. I asked your di s-

6 (He did not know what to say, ciples to drive out the spirit, but







14

MARK







they could not.” ciples. He said to them, “The Son of

19 “O unbelieving generation,” J e- Man is going to be betrayed into the

sus replied, “how long shall I stay hands of men. They will kill him,

with you? How long shall I put up and after three days he will rise.”

with you? Bring the boy to me.” 32 But they did not understand

20 So they brought him. When the what he meant and were afraid to

spirit saw Jesus, it immediately ask him about it.

threw the boy into a convulsion. He 33 They came to Capernaum. When

fell to the ground and rolled around, he was in the house, he asked them,

foaming at the mouth. “What were you arguing about on

21 Jesus asked the boy’s father, the road?”

“How long has he been like this?” 34 But they kept quiet because on

“From childhood,” he answered. the way they had argued about who

22 “It has often thrown him into was the greatest.

fire or water to kill him. But if you 35 Sitting down, Jesus called the

can do anything, take pity on us and Twelve and said, “If anyone wants

help us.” to be first, he must be the very last,

23 “`If you can’?” said Jesus. and the servant of all.”

“Everything is possible for him who 36 He took a little child and had

believes.” him stand among them. Taking him

24 Immediately the boy’s father in his arms, he said to them,

exclaimed, “I do believe; help me 37 “Whoever welcomes one of

overcome my unbelief!” these little children in my name

25 When Jesus saw that a crowd welcomes me; and whoever wel-

was running to the scene, he r e- comes me does not welcome me but

buked the evil [Greek: unclean] spi- the one who sent me.”

rit. “You deaf and mutespirit,” he 38 “Teacher,” said John, “we saw a

said, “I command you, come out of man driving out demons in your

him and never enter him again.” name and we told him to stop, b e-

26 The spirit shrieked, convulsed cause he was not one of us.”

him violently and came out. The boy 39 “Do not stop him,” Jesus said.

looked so much like a corpse that “No-one who does a miracle in my

many said, “He’s dead.” name can in the next moment say

27 But Jesus took him by the hand anything bad about me,

and lifted him to his feet, and he 40 for whoever is not against us is

stood up. for us.

28 After Jesus had gone indoors, 41 I tell you the truth, anyone who

his disciples asked him privately, gives you a cup of water in my name

“Why couldn’t we drive it out?” because you belong to Christ will

29 He replied, “This kind can come certainly not lose his reward.

out only by prayer.” [Some man u- 42 “And if anyone causes one of

scripts: prayer and fasting] these little ones who believe in me

30 They left that place and passed to sin, it would be better for him to

through Galilee. Jesus did not want be thrown into the sea with a larg e

anyone to know where they were, millstone tied around his neck.

31 because he was teaching his di s- 43 If your hand causes you to sin,







15

MARK







cut it off. It is better for you to e n- 6 “But at the beginning of creation

ter life maimed than with two hands God `made them male and female’.

to go into hell, where the fire never [Gen. 1:27]

goes out. 7 `For this reason a man will leave

44 [Some manuscripts: out, 44 his father and mother and be united

where “`their worm does not die, to his wife, [Some early manuscripts

and the fire is not quenched.’] do not have and be united to his

45 And if your foot causes you to wife.]

sin, cut it off. It is better for you to 8 and the two will become one

enter life crippled than to have two flesh.’ [Gen. 2:24] So they are no

feet and be thrown into hell. longer two, but one.

46 [Some manuscripts: hell, 46 9 Therefore what God has j oined

where “`their worm does not die, together, let man not separate.”

and the fire is not quenched.’] 10 When they were in the house

47 And if your eye causes you to again, the disciples asked Jesus

sin, pluck it out. It is better for you about this.

to enter the kingdom of God with 11 He answered, “Anyone who di-

one eye than to have two eyes and vorces his wife and marries another

be thrown into hell, woman commits adultery against

48 where “`their worm does not her.

die, and the fire is not quenched.’ 12 And if she divorces her husband

[Isaiah 66:24] and marries another man, she co m-

49 Everyone will be salted with mits adultery.”

fire. 13 People were bringing little

50 “Salt is good, but if it loses its children to Jesus to have him touch

saltiness, how can you make it salty them, but the disciples rebuked

again? Have salt in yourselves, and them.

be at peace with each other.” 14 When Jesus saw this, he was i n-

dignant. He said to them, “Let the

CHAPTER 10 little children come to me, and do

1 Jesus then left that place and not hinder them, for the kingdom of

went into the region of J udea and God belongs to such as these.

across the Jordan. Again crowds of 15 I tell you the truth, anyone who

people came to him, and as was his will not receive the kingdom of God

custom, he taught them. like a little child will never enter

2 Some Pharisees came and tested it.”

him by asking, “Is it lawful for a 16 And he took the children in his

man to divorce his wife?” arms, put his hands on them and

3 “What did Moses command you?” blessed them.

he replied. 17 As Jesus started on his way, a

4 They said, “Moses permitted a man ran up to him and fell on his

man to write a certificate of divorce knees before him. “Good teacher,”

and send her away.” he asked, “what must I do to inherit

5 “It was because your hearts were eternal life?”

hard that Moses wrote you this law,” 18 “Why do you call me good?” J e-

Jesus replied. sus answered. “No-one is good —







16

MARK







except God alone. (homes, brothers, sisters, mothers,

19 You know the commandments: children and fields — and with

`Do not murder, do not commit them, persecutions) and in the age

adultery, do not steal, do not give to come, eternal life.

false testimony, do not defraud, h o- 31 But many who are first will be

nour your father and mother.’“ [E x- last, and the last first.”

odus 20:12-16; Deut. 5:16-20] 32 They were on their way up to

20 “Teacher,” he declared, “all Jerusalem, with Jesus leading the

these I have kept since I was a boy.” way, and the disciples were ast o-

21 Jesus looked at him and loved nished, while those who followed

him. “One thing you lack,” he said. were afraid. Again he took the

“Go, sell everything you have and Twelve aside and told them what

give to the poor, and you will have was going to happen to him.

treasure in heaven. Then come, fo l- 33 “We are going up to Jerusalem,”

low me.” he said, “and the Son of Man will be

22 At this the man’s face fell. He betrayed to the chief priests and

went away sad, because he had great teachers of the law. They will co n-

wealth. demn him to death and will hand

23 Jesus looked around and said to him over to the Gentiles,

his disciples, “How hard it is for the 34 who will mock him and spit on

rich to enter the kingdom of God!” him, flog him and kill him. Three

24 The disciples were amazed at days later he will rise.”

his words. But Jesus said again, 35 Then James and John, the sons

“Children, how hard it is [Some m a- of Zebedee, came to him. “Teacher,”

nuscripts: is for those who trust in they said, “we want you to do for us

riches] to enter the kingdom of God! whatever we ask.”

25 It is easier for a camel to go 36 “What do you want me to do for

through the eye of a needle than for you?” he asked.

a rich man to enter the kingdom of 37 They replied, “Let one of us sit

God.” at your right and the other at your

26 The disciples were even more left in your glory.”

amazed, and said to each other, 38 “You don’t know what you are

“Who then can be saved?” asking,” Jesus said. “Can you drink

27 Jesus looked at them and said, the cup I drink or be baptised with

“With man this is impossible, but the baptism I am baptised with?”

not with God; all things are possible 39 “We can,” they answered. Jesus

with God.” said to them, “You will drink the

28 Peter said to him, “We have left cup I drink and be baptised with the

everything to follow you!” baptism I am baptised with,

29 “I tell you the truth,” Jesus r ep- 40 but to sit at my right or left is

lied, “no-one who has left home or not for me to grant. These places

brothers or sisters or mother or fa- belong to those for whom they have

ther or children or fields for me and been prepared.”

the gospel 41 When the ten heard about this,

30 will fail to receive a hundred they became indignant with James

times as much in this present age and John.







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MARK







42 Jesus called them together and at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent

said, “You know that those who are two of his disciples,

regarded as rulers of the Gentiles 2 saying to them, “Go to the village

lord it over them, and their high o f- ahead of you, and just as you enter

ficials exercise authority over them. it, you will find a colt tied there,

43 Not so with you. Instead, which no-one has ever ridden. Untie

whoever wants to become great it and bring it here.

among you must be your servant, 3 If anyone asks you, `Why are you

44 and whoever wants to be first doing this?’ tell him, `The Lord

must be slave of all. needs it and will send it back here

45 For even the Son of Man did not shortly.’“

come to be served, but to serve, and 4 They went and found a colt ou t-

to give his life as a ransom for side in the street, tied at a doorway.

many.” As they untied it,

46 Then they came to Jericho. As 5 some people standing there

Jesus and his disciples, together asked, “What are you doing, untying

with a large crowd, were leaving the that colt?”

city, a blind man, Bartimaeus (that 6 They answered as Jesus had told

is, the Son of Timaeus), was sitting them to, and the people let them go.

by the roadside begging. 7 When they brought the colt to J e-

47 When he heard that it was Jesus sus and threw their cloaks over it,

of Nazareth, he began to shout, “J e- he sat on it.

sus, Son of David, have mercy on 8 Many people spread their cloaks

me!” on the road, while others spread

48 Many rebuked him and told him branches they had cut in the fields.

to be quiet, but he shouted all the 9 Those who went ahead and those

more, “Son of David, have mercy on who followed shouted, “Hosanna!”

me!” [A Hebrew expression meaning

49 Jesus stopped and said, “Call “Save!” which became an exclam a-

him.” So they called to the blind tion of praise; also in verse 10.]

man, “Cheer up! On your feet! He’s “Blessed is he who comes in the

calling you.” name of the Lord!” [Psalm

50 Throwing his cloak aside, he 118:25,26]

jumped to his feet and came to J e- 10 “Blessed is the coming kingdom

sus. of our father David!” “Hosanna in

51 “What do you want me to do for the highest!”

you?” Jesus asked him. The blind 11 Jesus entered Jerusalem and

man said, “Rabbi, I want to see.” went to the temple. He looked

52 “Go,” said Jesus, “your faith has around at everything, but since it

healed you.” Immediately he r e- was already late, he went out to B e-

ceived his sight and followed Jesus thany with the Twelve.

along the road. 12 The next day as they were lea v-

ing Bethany, Jesus was hungry.

CHAPTER 11 13 Seeing in the distance a fig-tree

1 As they approached Jerusalem in leaf, he went to find out if it had

and came to Bethphage and Bethany any fruit. When he reached it, he







18

MARK







found nothing but leaves, because it you have received it, and it will be

was not the season for figs. yours.

14 Then he said to the tree, “May 25 And when you stand praying, if

no-one ever eat fruit from you you hold anything against anyone,

again.” And his disciples heard him forgive him, so that your Father in

say it. heaven may forgive you your sins.”

15 On reaching Jerusalem, Jesus 26 [Some manuscripts: sins. 26 But

entered the temple area and began if you do not forgive, neither will

driving out those who were buying your Father who is in heaven fo r-

and selling there. He overturned the give your sins.]

tables of the money-changers and 27 They arrived again in Jerusalem,

the benches of those selling doves, and while Jesus was walking in the

16 and would not allow anyone to temple courts, the chief priests, the

carry merchandise through the tem- teachers of the law and the elders

ple courts. came to him.

17 And as he taught them, he said, 28 “By what authority are you

“Is it not written: “`M y house will doing these things?” they asked.

be called a house of prayer for all “And who gave you authority to do

nations’? [Isaiah 56:7] But you have this?”

made it `a den of robbers’.” [Jer. 29 Jesus replied, “I will ask you

7:11] one question. Answer me, and I will

18 The chief priests and the teac h- tell you by what authority I am

ers of the law heard this and began doing these things.

looking for a way to kill him, for 30 John’s baptism — was it from

they feared him, becaus e the whole heaven, or from men? Tell me!”

crowd was amazed at his teaching. 31 They discussed it among them-

19 When evening came, they [Some selves and said, “If we say, `From

early manuscripts he] went out of heaven’, he will ask, `Then why

the city. didn’t you believe him?’

20 In the morning, as they went 32 But if we say, `From men’....”

along, they saw the fig-tree wi- (They feared the people, for ever y-

thered from the roots. one held that John really was a

21 Peter remembered and said to prophet.)

Jesus, “Rabbi, look! The figtree you 33 So they answered Jesus, “We

cursed has withered!” don’t know.” Jesus said, “Neither

22 “Have [Some early manuscripts will I tell you by what authority I

If you have] faith in God,” Jesus am doing these things.”

answered.

23 “I tell you the truth, if anyone CHAPTER 12

says to this mountain, `Go, throw 1 He then began to speak to them in

yourself into the sea,’ and does not parables: “A man planted a v i-

doubt in his heart but believes that neyard. He put a wall around it, dug

what he says will happen, it will be a pit for the winepress and built a

done for him. watchtower. Then he rented the v i-

24 Therefore I tell you, whatever neyard to some farmers and went

you ask for in prayer, believe that away on a journey.







19

MARK







2 At harvest time he sent a servant God in accordance with the truth. Is

to the tenants to collect from them it right to pay taxes to Caesar or

some of the fruit of the vineyard. not?

3 But they seized him, beat him and 15 Should we pay or shouldn’t

sent him away emptyhanded. we?” But Jesus knew their hypocr i-

4 Then he sent another servant to sy. “Why are you trying to trap

them; they struck this man on the me?” he asked. “Bring me a den a-

head and treated him shamefully. rius and let me look at it.”

5 He sent still another, and that one 16 They brought the coin, and he

they killed. He sent many others; asked them, “Whose portrait is this?

some of them they beat, others they And whose inscription?” “Caesar ’s,”

killed. they replied.

6 “He had one left to send, a son, 17 Then Jesus said to them, “Give

whom he loved. He sent him last of to Caesar what is Caesar ’s and to

all, saying, `They will respect my God what is God’s.” And they were

son.’ amazed at him.

7 “But the tenants said to one 18 Then the Sadducees, who say

another, `This is the heir. Come, there is no resurrection, came to

let’s kill him, and the inheritance him with a question.

will be ours.’ 19 “Teacher,” they said, “Moses

8 So they took him and killed him, wrote for us that if a man’s brother

and threw him out of the vineyard. dies and leaves a wife but no c hild-

9 “What then will the owner of the ren, the man must marry the widow

vineyard do? He will come and kill and have children for his brother.

those tenants and give the vineyard 20 Now there were seven brothers.

to others. The first one married and died wit h-

10 Haven’t you read this scripture: out leaving any children.

“`The stone the builders rejected 21 The second one married the wi-

has become the capstone; [Or co r- dow, but he also died, leaving no

nerstone] child. It was the same with the

11 the Lord has done this, and it is third.

marvellous in our eyes’?” [Psalm 22 In fact, none of the seven left

118:22,23] any children. Last of all, the woman

12 Then they looked for a way to died too.

arrest him because they knew he had 23 At the resurrection [Some man u-

spoken the parable against them. scripts: resurrection, when men rise

But they were afraid of the crowd; from the dead,] whose wife will she

so they left him and went away. be, since the seven were married to

13 Later they sent some of the Ph a- her?”

risees and Herodians to Jesus to 24 Jesus replied, “Are you not in

catch him in his words. error because you do not know the

14 They came to him and said, Scriptures or the power of God?

“Teacher, we know you are a man of 25 When the dead rise, they will

integrity. You aren’t swayed by men, neither marry nor be given in ma r-

because you pay no attention to who riage; they will be like the angels in

they are; but you teach the way of heaven.







20

MARK







26 Now about the dead rising — the Christ [Or Messiah] is the son of

have you not read in the book of David?

Moses, in the account of the bush, 36 David himself, speaking by the

how God said to him, `I am the God Holy Spirit, declared: “`The Lord

of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and said to my Lord: “Sit at my right

the God of Jacob’? [Exodus 3:6] hand until I put your enemies under

27 He is not the God of the dead, your feet.”’ [Psalm 110:1]

but of the living. You are badly mi s- 37 David himself calls him `Lord’.

taken!” How then can he be his son?” The

28 One of the teachers of the law large crowd listened to him with d e-

came and heard them debating. N o- light.

ticing that Jesus had given them a 38 As he taught, Jesus said, “Watch

good answer, he asked him, “Of all out for the teachers of the law. They

the commandments, which is the like to walk around in flowing robes

most important?” and be greeted in the market -places,

29 “The most important one,” a ns- 39 and have the most important

wered Jesus, “is this: `Hear, O seats in the synagogues and the

Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is places of honour at banquets.

one. [Or the Lord our God is one 40 They devour widows’ houses

Lord] and for a show make lengthy pra y-

30 Love the Lord your God with all ers. Such men will be pun ished most

your heart and with all your soul severely.”

and with all your mind and with all 41 Jesus sat down opposite the

your strength.’ [Deut. 6:4,5] place where the offerings were put

31 The second is this: `Love your and watched the crowd putting their

neighbour as yourself.’ [Lev. 19:18] money into the temple treasury.

There is no commandment greater Many rich people threw in large

than these.” amounts.

32 “Well said, teacher,” the man 42 But a poor widow came and put

replied. “You are right in saying in two very small copper coins,

that God is one and there is no other [Greek: two lepta] worth only a

but him. fraction of a penny. [Greek: ko-

33 To love him with all your heart, drantes]

with all your understanding and 43 Calling his disciples to him, J e-

with all your strength, and to love sus said, “I tell you the truth, this

your neighbour as yourself is more poor widow has put more into the

important than all burnt offerings treasury than all the others.

and sacrifices.” 44 They all gave out of their

34 When Jesus saw that he had wealth; but she, out of her poverty,

answered wisely, he said to him, put in everything — all she had to

“You are not far from the kingdom live on.”

of God.” And from then on no -one

dared ask him any more questi ons. CHAPTER 13

35 While Jesus was teaching in the 1 As he was leaving the temple, one

temple courts, he asked, “How is it of his disciples said to him, “Look,

that the teachers of the law say that Teacher! What massive stones! What







21

MARK







magnificent buildings!” of me, but he who stands firm to the

2 “Do you see all these great buil d- end will be saved.

ings?” replied Jesus. “Not one stone 14 “When you see `the abomination

here will be left on another; every that causes desolation’ [Daniel 9:27;

one will be thrown down.” 11:31; 12:11] standing where it [Or

3 As Jesus was sitting on the Mount he; also in verse 29] does not be-

of Olives opposite the temple, Peter, long — let the reader understand —

James, John and Andrew asked him then let those who are in Judea flee

privately, to the mountains.

4 “Tell us, when will these things 15 Let no-one on the roof of his

happen? And what will be the sign house go down or enter the house to

that they are all about to be fu l- take anything out.

filled?” 16 Let no-one in the field go back

5 Jesus said to them: “Watch out to get his cloak.

that no-one deceives you. 17 How dreadful it will be in those

6 Many will come in my name, days for pregnant women and nur s-

claiming, `I am he,’ and will dec e- ing mothers!

ive many. 18 Pray that this will not take place

7 When you hear of wars and ru- in winter,

mours of wars, do n ot be alarmed. 19 because those will be days of

Such things must happen, but the distress unequalled from the begi n-

end is still to come. ning, when God created the world,

8 Nation will rise against nation, until now — and never to be

and kingdom against kingdom. equalled again.

There will be earthquakes in various 20 If the Lord had not cut short

places, and famines. These are the those days, no-one would survive.

beginning of birth-pains. But for the sake of the elect, whom

9 “You must be on your guard. You he has chosen, he has shortened

will be handed over to the local them.

councils and flogged in the syn ago- 21 At that time if anyone says to

gues. On account of me you will you, `Look, here is the Christ!’ [Or

stand before governors and kings as Messiah] or, `Look, there he is! ’ do

witnesses to them. not believe it.

10 And the gospel must first be 22 For false Christs and false

preached to all nations. prophets will appear and perform

11 Whenever you are arrested and signs and miracles to deceive the

brought to trial, do not worry b efo- elect — if that were possible.

rehand about what to say. Just say 23 So be on your guard; I have told

whatever is given you at the time, you everything ahead of time.

for it is not you speaking, but the 24 “But in those days, following

Holy Spirit. that distress, “`the sun will be da r-

12 “Brother will betray brother to kened, and the moon will not give

death, and a father his child. Chi ld- its light;

ren will rebel against their parents 25 the stars will fall from the sky,

and have them put to death. and the heavenly bodies will be

13 All men will hate you because shaken.’ [Isaiah 13:10; 34:4]







22

MARK







26 “At that time men will see the days away, and the chief priests and

Son of Man coming in clouds with the teachers of the law were looking

great power and glory. for some sly way to arrest Jesus and

27 And he will send his angels and kill him.

gather his elect from the four winds, 2 “But not during the Feast,” they

from the ends of the earth to the said, “or the people may riot.”

ends of the heavens. 3 While he was in Bethany, recli n-

28 “Now learn this lesson from the ing at the table in t he home of a

fig-tree: As soon as its twigs get man known as Simon the Leper, a

tender and its leaves come out, you woman came with an alabaster jar of

know that summer is near. very expensive perfume, made of

29 Even so, when you see these pure nard. She broke the jar and

things happening, you know that it poured the perfume on his head.

is near, right at the door. 4 Some of those present were sa y-

30 I tell you the truth, this gener a- ing indignantly to one another,

tion [Or race] will certainly not pass “Why this waste of perfume?

away until all these things have 5 It could have been sold for more

happened. than a year ’s wages [Greek: than

31 Heaven and earth will pass three hundred denarii] and the mo n-

away, but my words will never pass ey given to the poor.” And they r e-

away. buked her harshly.

32 “No-one knows about that day 6 “Leave her alone,” said Jesus.

or hour, not even the angels in he a- “Why are you bothering her? She

ven, nor the Son, but only the F a- has done a beautiful thing to me.

ther. 7 The poor you will always have

33 Be on guard! Be alert! [Some with you, and you can help them any

manuscripts: alert and pray] You do time you want. But you will not a l-

not know when that time will com e. ways have me.

34 It’s like a man going away: He 8 She did what she could. She

leaves his house and puts his se r- poured perfume on my body befor e-

vants in charge, each with his as- hand to prepare for my burial.

signed task, and tells the one at the 9 I tell you the truth, where ver the

door to keep watch. gospel is preached throughout the

35 “Therefore keep watch because world, what she has done will also

you do not know when the owner of be told, in memory of her.”

the house will come back — wheth- 10 Then Judas Iscariot, one of the

er in the evening, or at midnight, or Twelve, went to the chief priests to

when the cock crows, or at dawn. betray Jesus to them.

36 If he comes suddenly, do not let 11 They were delighted to hear this

him find you sleeping. and promised to give him money. So

37 What I say to you, I say to ev e- he watched for an opportunity to

ryone: `Watch!’“ hand him over.

12 On the first day of the Feast of

CHAPTER 14 Unleavened Bread, when it was cu s-

1 Now the Passover and the Feast tomary to sacrifice the Passover

of Unleavened Bread were only two lamb, Jesus’ disciples asked him,







23

MARK







“Where do you want us to go and 25 “I tell you the truth, I will not

make preparations for you to eat the drink again of the fruit of the vine

Passover?” until that day when I drink it anew

13 So he sent two of his disciples, in the kingdom of God.”

telling them, “Go into the city, and 26 When they had sung a hymn,

a man carrying a jar of water will they went out to the Mount of

meet you. Follow him. Olives.

14 Say to the owner of the house he 27 “You will all fall away,” Jesus

enters, `The Teacher asks: Where is told them, “for it is written: “`I will

my guest room, where I may e at the strike the shepherd, and the sheep

Passover with my disciples?’ will be scattered.’ [Zech. 13:7]

15 He will show you a large upper 28 But after I have risen, I will go

room, furnished and ready. Make ahead of you into Galilee.”

preparations for us there.” 29 Peter declared, “Even if all fall

16 The disciples left, went into the away, I will not.”

city and found things just as Jesus 30 “I tell you the truth,” Jesus

had told them. So they prepared the answered, “today — yes, tonight —

Passover. before the cock crows twice [Some

17 When evening came, Jesus a r- early manuscripts do not have

rived with the Twelve. twice.] you yourself will disown me

18 While they were reclining at the three times.”

table eating, he said, “I tell you the 31 But Peter insisted emphatical ly,

truth, one of you will betray me — “Even if I have to die with you, I

one who is eating with me.” will never disown you.” And all the

19 They were saddened, and one by others said the same.

one they said to him, “Surely not 32 They went to a place called

I?” Gethsemane, and Jesus said to his

20 “It is one of the Twelve,” he disciples, “Sit here while I pray.”

replied, “one who dips bread into 33 He took Peter, James and John

the bowl with me. along with him, and he began to be

21 The Son of Man will go just as deeply distressed and troubled.

it is written about him. But woe to 34 “My soul is overwhelmed with

that man who betrays the Son of sorrow to the point of death,” he

Man! It would be better for him if said to them. “Stay here and keep

he had not been born.” watch.”

22 While they were eating, Jesus 35 Going a little farther, he fell to

took bread, gave thanks and broke the ground and prayed that if poss i-

it, and gave it to his disciples, sa y- ble the hour might pass from him.

ing, “Take it; this is my body.” 36 “Abba, [Aramaic for Father] F a-

23 Then he took the cup, gave ther,” he said, “everything is poss i-

thanks and offered it to them, and ble for you. Take this cup from me.

they all drank from it. Yet not what I will, but what you

24 “This is my blood of the [Som e will.”

manuscripts: the new] covenant, 37 Then he returned to his disciples

which is poured out for many,” he and found them sleeping. “Simon,”

said to them. he said to Peter, “are you asleep ?







24

MARK







Could you not keep watch for one but a linen garment, was following

hour? Jesus. When they seized him,

38 Watch and pray so that you will 52 he fled naked, leaving his ga r-

not fall into temptation. The spirit is ment behind.

willing, but the body is weak.” 53 They took Jesus to the high

39 Once more he went away and priest, and all the chief priests, el d-

prayed the same thing. ers and teachers of the law came t o-

40 When he came back, he again gether.

found them sleeping, because their 54 Peter followed him at a dis-

eyes were heavy. They did not know tance, right into the courtyard of the

what to say to him. high priest. There he sat with the

41 Returning the third time, he said guards and warmed himself at the

to them, “Are you still sleeping and fire.

resting? Enough! The hour has 55 The chief priests and the whole

come. Look, the Son of Man is b e- Sanhedrin were looking for evidence

trayed into the hands of sinners. against Jesus so that they could put

42 Rise! Let us go! Here comes my him to death, but they did not find

betrayer!” any.

43 Just as he was speaking, Judas, 56 Many testified falsely against

one of the Twelve, appeared. With him, but their statements did not

him was a crowd armed with swords agree.

and clubs, sent from the chief 57 Then some stood up and gave

priests, the teachers of the law, and this false testimony against him:

the elders. 58 “We heard him say, `I will d e-

44 Now the betrayer had arranged a stroy this man-made temple and in

signal with them: “The one I kiss is three days will build another, not

the man; arrest him and lead him made by man.’“

away under guard.” 59 Yet even then their testimony

45 Going at once to Jesus, Judas did not agree.

said, “Rabbi!” and kissed him. 60 Then the high priest stood up

46 The men seized Jesus and a r- before them and asked Jesus, “Are

rested him. you not going to answer? What is

47 Then one of those standing near this testimony that these men are

drew his sword and struck the ser- bringing against you?”

vant of the high priest, cutting off 61 But Jesus remained silent and

his ear. gave no answer. Again the high

48 “Am I leading a rebellion,” said priest asked him, “Are you the Ch r-

Jesus, “that you have come out with ist, [Or Messiah] the Son of the

swords and clubs to capture me? Blessed One?”

49 Every day I was with you, 62 “I am,” said Jesus. “And you

teaching in the temple courts, and will see the Son of Man sitting at

you did not arrest me. But the Scri p- the right hand of the Mighty One

tures must be fulfilled.” and coming on the clouds of he a-

50 Then everyone deserted him and ven.”

fled. 63 The high priest tore his clothes.

51 A young man, wearing nothing “Why do we need any more wi t-







25

MARK







nesses?” he asked. 1 Very early in the morning, the

64 “You have heard the blasphemy. chief priests, with the elders , the

What do you think?” They all co n- teachers of the law and the whole

demned him as worthy of death. Sanhedrin, reached a decision. They

65 Then some began to spit at him; bound Jesus, led him away and

they blindfolded him, struck him turned him over to Pilate.

with their fists, and said, “Proph e- 2 “Are you the king of the Jews?”

sy!” And the guards took him and asked Pilate. “Yes, it is as you say,”

beat him. Jesus replied.

66 While Peter was below in the 3 The chief priests accused him o f

courtyard, one of the servant girls many things.

of the high priest came by. 4 So again Pilate asked him,

67 When she saw Peter warming “Aren’t you going to answer? See

himself, she looked closely at him. how many things they are accusing

“You also were with that Nazarene, you of.”

Jesus,” she said. 5 But Jesus still made no reply, and

68 But he denied it. “I don’t know Pilate was amazed.

or understand what you’re talking 6 Now it was the custom at the

about,” he said, and went out into Feast to release a prisoner whom the

the entrance. [Some early man u- people requested.

scripts entrance and the cock 7 A man called Barabbas was in

crowed] prison with the insurrectionists who

69 When the servant girl saw him had committed murder in the upri s-

there, she said again to those stan d- ing.

ing around, “This fellow is one of 8 The crowd came up and asked P i-

them.” late to do for them what he usually

70 Again he denied it. After a little did.

while, those standing near said to 9 “Do you want me to release to

Peter, “Surely you are one of t hem, you the king of the Jews?” asked P i-

for you are a Galilean.” late,

71 He began to call down curses on 10 knowing it was out of envy that

himself, and he swore to them, “I the chief priests had handed Jesus

don’t know this man you’re talking over to him.

about.” 11 But the chief priests stirred up

72 Immediately the cock crowed the crowd to have Pilate release B a-

the second time. [Some early man u- rabbas instead.

scripts do not have the second 12 “What shall I do, then, with the

time.] Then Peter remembered the one you call the king of the Jews?”

word Jesus had spoken to him: “B e- Pilate asked them.

fore the cock crows twice [Some 13 “Crucify him!” they shouted.

early manuscripts do not have 14 “Why? What crime has he com-

twice.] you will disown me three mitted?” asked Pilate. But they

times.” And he broke down and shouted all the louder, “Crucify

wept. him!”

15 Wanting to satisfy the crowd,

CHAPTER 15 Pilate released Barabbas to them.







26

MARK







He had Jesus flogged, and handed sults at him, shaking their heads and

him over to be crucified. saying, “So! You who are going to

16 The soldiers led Jesus away into destroy the temple and build it in

the palace (that is, the Praetorium) three days,

and called together the whole co m- 30 come down from the cross and

pany of soldiers. save yourself!”

17 They put a purple robe on him, 31 In the same way the chief

then twisted together a crown of priests and the teachers of the law

thorns and set it on him. mocked him among themselves. “He

18 And they began to call out to saved others,” they said, “but he

him, “Hail, king of the Jews!” can’t save himself!

19 Again and again they struck him 32 Let this Christ, [Or Messiah]

on the head with a staff and spat on this King of Israel, come down now

him. Falling on their knees, they from the cross, that we may see and

paid homage to him. believe.” Those crucified with him

20 And when they had mocked him, also heaped insults on him.

they took off the purple robe and 33 At the sixth hour darkness came

put his own clothes on him. Then over the whole land until the ninth

they led him out to crucify him. hour.

21 A certain man from Cyrene, S i- 34 And at the ninth hour Jesus

mon, the father of Alexander and cried out in a loud voice, “Eloi,

Rufus, was passing by on his way in Eloi, lama sabachthani?” — which

from the country, and they forced means, “My God, my God, why have

him to carry the cross. you forsaken me?” [Psalm 22:1]

22 They brought Jesus to the place 35 When some of those standing

called Golgotha (which means The near heard this, they said, “Listen,

Place of the Skull). he’s calling Elijah.”

23 Then they offered him wine 36 One man ran, filled a sponge

mixed with myrrh, but he did not with wine vinegar, put it on a stick,

take it. and offered it to Jesus to drink.

24 And they crucified him. Divi d- “Now leave him alone. Le t’s see if

ing up his clothes, they cast lots to Elijah comes to take him down,” he

see what each would get. said.

25 It was the third hour when they 37 With a loud cry, Jesus breathed

crucified him. his last.

26 The written notice of the charge 38 The curtain of the temple was

against him read: THE KING OF torn in two from top to bottom.

THE JEWS. 39 And when the centurion, who

27 They crucified two robbers with stood there in front of Jesus, heard

him, one on his right and one on his his cry and [Some manuscripts: do

left. not have heard his cry and.] saw

28 [Some manuscripts: left, 28 and how he died, he said, “Surely this

the scripture was fulfilled which man was the Son [Or a son] of

says, “He was count ed with the law- God!”

less ones” (Isaiah 53:12)] 40 Some women were watching

29 Those who passed by hurled i n- from a distance. Among them were







27

MARK







Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother saw that the stone, which was very

of James the younger and of Joses, large, had been rolled away.

and Salome. 5 As they entered the tomb, they

41 In Galilee these women had fo l- saw a young man dressed in a white

lowed him and cared for his needs. robe sitting on the right side, and

Many other women who had come they were alarmed.

up with him to Jerusalem were also 6 “Don’t be alarmed,” he said.

there. “You are looking for Jesus the N a-

42 It was Preparation Day (that is, zarene, who was crucified. He has

the day before the Sabbath). So as risen! He is not here. See the place

evening approached, where they laid him.

43 Joseph of Arimathea, a promi- 7 But go, tell his disciples and P e-

nent member of the Council, who ter, `He is going ahead of you into

was himself waiting for the kingdom Galilee. There you will see him, just

of God, went boldly to Pilate and as he told you.’“

asked for Jesus’ body. 8 Trembling and bewildered, the

44 Pilate was surprised to hear that women went out and fled from the

he was already dead. Summoning tomb. They said nothing to anyone,

the centurion, he asked him if Jesus because they were afraid. [The most

had already died. reliable early manuscripts and other

45 When he learned from the cent u- ancient witnesses do not have Mark

rion that it was so, he gave the body 16:9-20.]

to Joseph. 9 When Jesus rose early on the first

46 So Joseph bought some linen day of the week, he appeared first to

cloth, took down the body, wrapped Mary Magdalene, out of whom he

it in the linen, and placed it in a had driven seven demon s.

tomb cut out of rock. Then he rolled 10 She went and told those who had

a stone against the entrance of the been with him and who were mour n-

tomb. ing and weeping.

47 Mary Magdalene and Mary the 11 When they heard that Jesus was

mother of Joses saw where he was alive and that she had seen him,

laid. they did not believe it.

12 Afterwards Jesus appeared in a

CHAPTER 16 different form to two of them while

1 When the Sabbath was over, Mary they were walking in the country.

Magdalene, Mary the mother of 13 These returned and reported it to

James, and Salome bought spices so the rest; but they did not believe

that they might go to anoint Jesus’ them either.

body. 14 Later Jesus appeared to the El e-

2 Very early on the first day of the ven as they were eating; he r ebuked

week, just after sunrise, they were them for their lack of faith and their

on their way to the tomb stubborn refusal to believe those

3 and they asked each other, “Who who had seen him after he had risen.

will roll the stone away from the e n- 15 He said to them, “Go into all the

trance of the tomb?” world and preach the good news to

4 But when they looked up, they all creation.







28

MARK







16 Whoever believes and is ba p-

tised will be saved, but whoever

does not believe will be condemned.

17 And these signs will accompany

those who believe: In my name they

will drive out demons; they will

speak in new tongues;

18 they will pick up snakes with

their hands; and when they drink

deadly poison, it will not hurt them

at all; they will place their hands on

sick people, and they will get well.”

19 After the Lord Jesus had spoken

to them, he was taken up into he a-

ven and he sat at the right hand of

God.

20 Then the disciples went out and

preached everywhere, and the Lord

worked with them and confirmed his

word by the signs that accompanied

it.









29