Mark 5:40

And they laughed him to scorn. But when he had put them all out, he taketh the father and the mother of the damsel, and them that were with him, and entereth in where the damsel was lying.

Mark 5:40 (KJV)

Context

This verse sits at the climax of the healing of Jairus’ daughter, a story that begins in Mark 5:21-24. Jairus, a ruler of the synagogue, had begged Jesus to come and heal his dying daughter. On the way, Jesus healed a woman with an issue of blood (Mark 5:25-34). When Jesus arrives at Jairus’ house, He finds a commotion of people weeping and wailing loudly (Mark 5:38). When He says the girl is not dead but sleeping, the crowd—likely including professional mourners—responds with scornful laughter, mocking His words.

Meaning

The phrase “And they laughed him to scorn” translates a Greek verb (kategelōn) that means to laugh derisively or ridicule. Their reaction reveals complete disbelief in Jesus’ authority over death. Yet Jesus does not require the crowd’s belief to act. He “put them all out,” removing the scoffers and limiting the witnesses to the miracle to the child’s father, mother, and His inner circle of disciples—Peter, James, and John. This action creates a private space of faith, separating the mocking crowd from the demonstration of God’s power. The focus shifts from public ridicule to the quiet, intimate setting where Jesus will perform the miracle.

Application

This passage teaches that unbelief does not hinder Christ’s work. Even when others mock or doubt, Jesus remains committed to showing His compassion and power. He is willing to enter into the difficult situations of people’s lives and bring about miraculous transformation. The selection of a few trusted witnesses emphasizes the importance of having a close circle of believers who share our faith and can support us in times of need.

Reflection

Faith amidst doubt is a recurring theme. The laughter of the crowd contrasts sharply with the faith of Jairus, who had pleaded with Jesus despite the dire circumstances. Jesus’ response demonstrates the importance of maintaining faith even when others ridicule or misunderstand. He does not require the crowd’s belief to act; He proceeds based on the faith of the parents and His own divine authority. This encourages us to trust in Him, even when circumstances seem dire or others doubt.