Mark 5:39

“And when he was come in, he saith unto them, Why make ye this ado, and weep? the damsel is not dead, but sleepeth.”

Mark 5:39 (KJV):

This verse is part of the account of Jesus raising Jairus’ daughter from the dead. Let’s explore the context and the significance of this verse in more detail:

1. Historical Context:

In Mark 5:21-43, we read about two significant events that took place on the same day. Firstly, Jesus was approached by Jairus, a synagogue leader, who pleaded with Him to come and heal his dying daughter. While Jesus was on His way to Jairus’ house, a woman who had suffered from a bleeding condition for twelve years touched His garment and was healed. Amidst the crowd, Jesus took the time to acknowledge this woman and her faith. While this encounter was taking place, messengers arrived and informed Jairus that his daughter had died. Despite the discouraging news, Jesus encouraged Jairus to believe and proceeded to Jairus’ house.

2. Jesus’ Words of Comfort:

Upon entering Jairus’ house and encountering the mourning and wailing crowd, Jesus said the words recorded in Mark 5:39. He questioned their reaction, asking why they were making such a commotion and weeping. Jesus made a significant statement, saying, “the damsel is not dead, but sleepeth.” This statement is often misunderstood by some, as they interpret it to mean that death is merely a state of sleep. However, Jesus used this phrase metaphorically, indicating that death was temporary, and He had the power to awaken the girl from her sleep of death.

3. The Miracle of Raising the Dead:

After uttering these words, Jesus went into the room where the young girl was lying. He took her by the hand and commanded her to arise. Miraculously, she immediately got up and began walking. The girl’s resurrection demonstrated Jesus’ authority over death and displayed His power to bring life even in the face of death.

4. Spiritual Significance:

The verse holds several spiritual lessons for us:

• a. Jesus’ Authority Over Death:Through this miracle, Jesus showcased His authority over death itself. This event foreshadowed His own resurrection and the power He holds over eternal life. It serves as a reminder that Jesus is the source of life and has the power to conquer death.
• b. Hope in the Face of Despair:The disciples, Jairus, and the mourners in the room believed the girl was dead and beyond hope. However, Jesus brought hope into the midst of their despair. He revealed that what appeared final and irreversible to humans was only temporary in His presence. This teaches us that no situation is beyond the reach of Jesus’ transforming power.
• c. Faith and Belief:Jesus encouraged Jairus to believe, even when faced with the tragic news of his daughter’s death. This verse highlights the importance of faith in our relationship with God. It challenges us to trust in Jesus, even when circumstances seem bleak or contrary to our expectations.
• d. The Resurrection as a Foreshadowing:This miracle of raising Jairus’ daughter from the dead serves as a foreshadowing of Jesus’ own resurrection. Just as He brought life to the young girl, Jesus conquered death through His resurrection, offering eternal life to all who believe in Him.

In conclusion, Mark 5:39 captures a moment of hope and victory over death through Jesus’ words and actions. It reminds us of Jesus’ authority over death, the importance of faith and belief, and the promise of eternal life in Him.