What does mark chapter 9 verse 14-29 mean?

Answer 1

Within the parallel structure of Mark's Gospel, verse 9:1 is both an introduction to the fuller account in chapter 13 and a literary contrast to it.

A parallel structure is an literary sequence in which an opening set of events is contrasted with another, parallel set of events that mirrors the first. Mark's Gospel is an excellent example of this literary form, demonstrating an impressive literary ability on the part of its author.

• The opening set begins with John explaining the coming of Jesus, followed by the baptism and the voice of God from heaven, and ends with Jesus predicting his death. The contrasting structure begins with the Transfiguration of Jesus and the voice of God from heaven, and ends with the crucifixion, followed by the young man explaining the departure of Jesus.

Verse 9:1 and chapter 13 fit into this structure at the appropriate locations, showing that they were intended to be seen as closely related. Thus, when Jesus says at 9:1, "And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That there be some of them that stand here, which shall not taste of death, till they have seen the kingdom of God come with power," we can look at chapter 13 for the fuller explanation. Here, Jesus describes in some detail the end of the world and his second coming, on clouds of glory, within the lifetimes of some of those to whom he was speaking. This is a prophecy that did not come to fruition, but at the time Mark's Gospel was written (approximately 70 CE) it must have seemed as if the world was coming to an end. The later gospels followed Mark's text as closely as possible, but instead of expecting the end of the world within the then current generation, say that no one knows when the world will end.

Answer 2

Mark 9:49 Excerpt from John Gill Exposition

For every one shall be salted with fire...

That is every one of those that transgress the law of God, offend any that, believe in Christ, retain their sins, and sinful companions; every one of them that are cast into hell, where the worm of conscience is always gnawing, and the fire of divine wrath is always burning, with that fire every one of them shall be salted: that fire shall be to them, what salt is to flesh; as that keeps flesh from putrefaction and corruption, so the fire of hell, as it will burn, torture, and distress rebellious sinners, it will preserve them in their beings; they shall not be consumed by it, but continued in it: so that these words are a reason of the former, showing and proving, that the soul in torment shall never die, or lose any of its powers and faculties; and particularly, not its gnawing, torturing conscience; and that the fire of hell is inextinguishable; for though sinners will be inexpressibly tormented in it, they will not be consumed by it; but the smoke of their torments shall ascend for ever and ever; and that they will be so far from being annihilated by the fire of hell, that they shall be preserved in their beings in it, as flesh is preserved by salt:

Gill, John. "Commentary on Mark 9:49", "The New John Gill Exposition

of the Entire Bible", May 28, 2010

Pain to be preferred to sin.

It is repeatedly said of the wicked, their worm dieth not, as well as, the fire is never quenched. Doubtless, remorse of conscience and keen self-reflection are this never-dying worm. Surely it is beyond compare better to undergo all possible pain, hardship, and self-denial here, and to be happy for ever hereafter, than to enjoy all kinds of worldly pleasure for a season, and to be miserable for ever. Like the sacrifices, we must be salted with salt; our corrupt affections must be subdued and mortified by the Holy Spirit. Those that have the salt of grace, must show they have a living principle of grace in their hearts, which works out corrupt dispositions in the soul that would offend God, or our own consciences.

Henry, Matthew, "Commentary on Mark 9:49",Matthew Henry Concise Commentary on The Bible ,retrieved May 28,2010, .

Answer 3

Someone who wants to be exalted above his friends or colleagues will end up the loser.