Mark 12:29
And Iesus answered him, The first of al the commandements is, Heare, O Israel, the Lord our God is one Lord: Mark 12:29 (KJV)
And Jesus answered him,
The first of all the commandments
is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: Mark 12:29 (KJV)
This verse occurs in a dialogue between Jesus and a scribe who asks Him what the greatest commandment is. Jesus answers by quoting the Old Testament, specifically Deuteronomy 6:4, which declares, “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD.” In doing so He points to the Shema, the ancient Jewish confession of monotheism that was recited daily as a reminder of Israel’s covenant relationship with God.
Jesus affirms that the first commandment is to “Hear, O Israel,” emphasizing the need to listen attentively to God’s word. The statement “The Lord our God is one Lord” underscores the central belief in the oneness of God, distinguishing the faith from any polytheistic worldview.
Mark 12:29‑30 expands this declaration by adding the command to love the Lord with all one’s heart, soul, mind, and strength. The love command flows naturally from recognizing God’s singularity; the unity of God’s nature demands undivided devotion and loyalty from His people.
The Shema therefore serves not only as a theological statement but also as a covenantal call to love God wholeheartedly. It reminds believers that true worship involves the whole person—heart, soul, mind, and strength—dedicated to the one true God.
While Jesus addresses a Jewish audience, the principles are equally applicable to Christians. Believers in Christ are likewise called to love and worship the one true God, demonstrating their commitment in every aspect of life. The oneness of God and the call to love Him form the foundation of the Christian faith and devotion.
In summary, Mark 12:29 highlights the primacy of the Shema—acknowledging God’s oneness—while the following verse adds the comprehensive love command. Together they establish a personal, covenantal relationship with God as the cornerstone of both Jewish and Christian devotion.
