Mark 10

1-12. See notes on Matt. xix. 1-12.

12 put away her husband. The law of Moses did not permit a woman to divorce her husband. But the Jews seem to have adopted the custom from the Romans.

13. And they brought, etc. At some place, unspecified, in our Lord’s journey through Peræa. young children. Properly, “little children” (R.V.), as in 14.

14 much displeased. “Moved with indignation” (R.V.). Peculiar to Mark. That the disciples should interpose a hindrance showed how little they yet understood their Master.

15 as a little child. These words evidently refer to that humility which is one essential characteristic of Christ’s true followers: see 14, and also ix. 33-37, and notes.

16. He took them up in His arms. This action mentioned by Mark only, strikingly displays the condescending affection of our Lord.

17-34. See notes on Matt. xix. 16-30.

17 running, and kneeled. Graphic touches, as of an eyewitness.

19. Defraud not. Only in Mark. The other commands are all from the Decalogue. This is probably “St. Mark’s rendering of the Tenth Commandment” (Hammond). See also Lev. xix. 13.

21. Jesus beholding him loved him. Only in Mark. There was about this young ruler an engaging openness and sincerity which contrasted very favourably with the hypocrisy and dishonesty of the Pharisees and scribes.

24 for them that trust in riches. These words explain the meaning of ver. 23. Those who possess riches are apt to trust in them—to regard them as a source of security and happiness. This whole verse is peculiar to Mark: see note on Matt. xix. 23.

30 with persecutions. The addition of these words (only in Mark) shows that the blessings of which our Lord is speaking are chiefly spiritual. Yet, even in this life, those who have willingly lost for Christ’s sake have often found unexpected advantages—“houses,” where they have been welcomed; “brothers, sisters, mothers,” who have made common interest with them (see Rom. xvi. 13) and “children” in the faith (see 2 Cor. vi. 13; Gal. iv. 19).

32 amazed . . . afraid. A vivid description of the disciples’ feelings, after the manner of this evangelist. There was a majesty and mystery in His bearing which filled them with awe.

35-45. See Matt. xx. 20-28.

35. James and John. According to Matthew, it was the mother who made this request on her sons’ behalf. Both statements are no doubt true.

37 in Thy glory. They evidently referred to a state of earthly glory, which they expected Jesus soon to assume.

38 baptised. “The being immersed and overwhelmed with waters is a frequent metaphor, in all languages, to express the rush of successive troubles” (Watson).

42 which are accounted. “They who are acknowledged as rulers,” etc.

43 minister. Or, “servant,” the word in ver. 44 meaning “bond servant”; a climax.

46-52. See notes on Matt. xx. 29-34.

46. Bartimæus. “Bar” is the Aramaic word for son. Mark alone gives the name. The case of Bartimæus affords a striking illustration of persevering faith and its reward.

49. And they call the blind man, etc. This part of the narrative, to the end of 50, is peculiar to Mark.