Mark 9:15
And straightway all the people, when they beheld him, were greatly amazed, and running to him saluted him.
Mark 9:15 (KJV)
Context
Mark 9:15 sits within the larger Transfiguration narrative (Mark 9:2-13). Jesus had taken Peter, James, and John up a high mountain, where He was transfigured before them, and Moses and Elijah appeared with Him. As they came down, they found the other disciples arguing with the scribes and surrounded by a large crowd (Mark 9:14). The verse records the crowd’s immediate reaction when they saw Jesus.
Meaning
The phrase “And straightway” signals that the people’s response was immediate, without delay. “All the people” refers to the crowd gathered around the disciples, likely including those who had witnessed the argument. “When they beheld him” indicates that something about Jesus caught their attention. “Were greatly amazed” translates a Greek word (ekthambeomai) that conveys intense astonishment, even alarm. Some commentators suggest the amazement came from a remaining glory on Jesus’ face after the Transfiguration, similar to Moses’ shining face after Sinai (Exodus 34:29-35). Others think the crowd was amazed that Jesus arrived at that precise moment to rescue His disciples from the scribes’ triumph. “Running to him” shows eagerness and urgency, while “saluted him” means they greeted or paid respects to Him, acknowledging His authority and significance.
Biblical connections
The parallel accounts in Matthew 17:14-19 and Luke 9:37-42 record the same event. The crowd’s response contrasts with the disciples’ failure to heal the boy (Mark 9:14-18), showing that the people looked to Jesus as the source of help. This verse sets the stage for Jesus’ question in Mark 9:16 and the subsequent healing of the boy with an unclean spirit.
Application
As believers, we should approach Jesus with awe and reverence, recognising His divinity and authority over our lives.
Just as the people ran to Jesus, we should eagerly seek to draw near to Him, pursuing a deeper relationship and fellowship with Him.
The transfiguration account reminds us of the glory and power of Jesus, encouraging us to trust in His divine nature and promises, even in challenging times.
We should seek opportunities to encounter the presence of God through prayer, worship, and studying His Word, anticipating the transformative impact such encounters can have on our faith.
Reflection
Encountering Jesus changes how we respond. The crowd’s amazement and eager greeting show that His presence draws people to Him. When we recognise His glory and authority, our natural response is to run to Him with reverence and joy, knowing He is able to help in every need.
