Bible Verse Meaning of Mark 6:11

Mark 6:11 states: "And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear you, when ye depart thence, shake off the dust under your feet for a testimony against them. Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment than for that city."

Summary and Interpretation

This verse is part of a larger narrative where Jesus sends out His disciples to preach and heal. It underscores the principles of acceptance and rejection of the Gospel. Below is a summary of insights drawn from public domain commentaries.

Insights from Various Commentaries

• Matthew Henry's Commentary:

  Henry explains that the disciples are instructed to shake off the dust from their feet as a symbolic act of renunciation of those who reject their message. This gesture signifies that they are not responsible for the judgment that follows, emphasizing the importance of accepting the Gospel.

• Albert Barnes' Notes:

  Barnes emphasizes the seriousness of rejecting the Gospel, noting that the mention of Sodom and Gomorrah serves as a severe warning. Those who turn away from the teachings of Christ are compared to these cities, which faced divine judgment, highlighting the consequences of disbelief.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary:

  Clarke provides a detailed examination of cultural practices. He mentions that shaking off the dust was a common act when leaving a place that was deemed unclean. This act symbolizes the disciples' separation from those who reject their message, marking a clear boundary between the righteous and the unrighteous.

Thematic Connections and Cross-References

This verse connects with various Bible verses and themes, enhancing our understanding through cross-references. The idea of rejecting the Gospel is a recurring theme throughout the New Testament.

Relevant Bible Verse Cross-References:

• Matthew 10:14: "And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet." This verse parallels Mark 6:11 in its instruction on how to respond to rejection.
• Luke 9:5: "And whosoever will not receive you, when ye go out of that city, shake off the very dust from your feet for a testimony against them." Similar instructions are given to the disciples, further emphasizing the rejection theme.
• John 12:48: "He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him; the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day." This highlights the accountability that comes with rejecting Christ's teachings.
• Matthew 23:37-39: "O Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee..." This expresses lamentation over a city that rejects God's messages, resonating with the warning given in Mark 6:11.
• Acts 13:51: "But they shook off the dust of their feet against them, and came unto Iconium." The disciples practice what Christ preached, acting on the principle of judgment against those who reject them.
• Romans 1:16: "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth..." This verse reinforces the significance of the Gospel's acceptance.
• Revelation 21:8: "But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone." This connects to the severe consequences of rejection depicted in Mark 6:11.

Understanding Cross-Referencing Methods

Cross-referencing Bible verses can enhance comprehension and provide deeper insights into themes

• Utilize a Bible concordance to find related verses on specific themes.
• Employ tools for Bible cross-referencing for comparative studies of Scriptures.
• Engage in cross-reference Bible study to explore connections between different books of the Bible.

Conclusion

Mark 6:11 serves as a profound reminder of the importance of accepting the message of Jesus and the ramifications of rejection. By understanding the cross-references and the commentaries, one can gain a holistic view of this verse within the broader context of Scripture.