Mark 3:4
And He asked them, "Which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to destroy it?" But they were silent.
Then Jesus asked them
In this opening phrase, we see Jesus taking the initiative to engage with the Pharisees and those present. The Greek word for "asked" is "ἐπηρώτησεν" (eperōtēsen), which implies a questioning that seeks to provoke thought or challenge assumptions. Jesus often used questions to reveal deeper truths and to confront the hardened hearts of His listeners. This approach is consistent with His teaching style throughout the Gospels, where He uses questions to lead others to self-reflection and revelation.

Which is lawful on the Sabbath
The term "lawful" here is translated from the Greek word "ἔξεστιν" (exestin), meaning permissible or allowed. The Sabbath, a day of rest instituted by God in the Old Testament, had become burdened with additional human traditions and interpretations by the time of Jesus. The Pharisees had created a complex system of rules regarding what constituted work on the Sabbath. Jesus challenges these interpretations by asking what is truly permissible according to God's original intent for the Sabbath.

to do good or to do evil
This phrase presents a moral dichotomy. The Greek words for "good" (ἀγαθοποιῆσαι, agathopoiēsai) and "evil" (κακοποιῆσαι, kakopoiēsai) highlight the ethical dimension of Jesus' question. By framing the question in terms of good versus evil, Jesus emphasizes that the Sabbath should be a day for promoting life and well-being, not for adhering to legalistic restrictions that prevent acts of mercy and kindness.

to save life or to destroy it?
The contrast between "save" (σῶσαι, sōsai) and "destroy" (ἀποκτεῖναι, apokteinai) underscores the life-giving purpose of God's commandments. The word "save" in Greek carries connotations of healing, preserving, and delivering, which aligns with Jesus' mission to bring salvation and restoration. The Pharisees' focus on strict Sabbath observance had, in some cases, led to neglecting the well-being of individuals, which Jesus points out as contrary to God's desire for life and wholeness.

But they were silent
The silence of the Pharisees, indicated by the Greek word "ἐσιώπων" (esiōpōn), reveals their inability or unwillingness to respond to Jesus' challenge. Their silence is telling; it reflects their internal struggle and the conviction that Jesus' question brings. This moment of silence is significant, as it highlights the tension between human tradition and divine intention, and it sets the stage for Jesus to demonstrate the true spirit of the Sabbath through His actions.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Jesus
The central figure in this passage, Jesus is teaching in the synagogue and challenging the Pharisees' understanding of the Sabbath.

2. Pharisees
A religious group known for their strict adherence to the Law. They are present in the synagogue and are observing Jesus to see if He will heal on the Sabbath.

3. Man with the Withered Hand
The individual in need of healing, whose presence prompts Jesus to address the Pharisees' legalism.

4. Synagogue
The place where this event occurs, serving as a center for teaching and worship in Jewish communities.
Teaching Points
Understanding the Sabbath
Jesus challenges the Pharisees' rigid interpretation of the Sabbath, emphasizing that it is meant for good and not for harm. This teaches us to prioritize compassion and mercy over legalism.

The Heart of the Law
The original Greek word for "lawful" (exestin) implies what is permitted or allowed. Jesus is highlighting that the heart of the law is love and mercy, not mere rule-following.

Compassion Over Ritual
Jesus' willingness to heal on the Sabbath demonstrates that acts of compassion should not be hindered by ritualistic observance. This encourages believers to act in love, even when it challenges traditional norms.

Confronting Legalism
Jesus' question to the Pharisees exposes the danger of legalism, which can blind us to the needs of others. We are called to examine our own hearts and ensure that our practices align with God's love and justice.

Courage to Stand for Truth
Jesus' boldness in confronting the Pharisees serves as an example for believers to stand firm in truth, even when it is unpopular or met with opposition.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does Jesus' question in Mark 3:4 challenge the Pharisees' understanding of the Sabbath, and what does this teach us about the purpose of God's commandments?

2. In what ways can we sometimes prioritize rules or traditions over compassion and mercy in our own lives?

3. How does the healing of the man with the withered hand illustrate the principle of doing good on the Sabbath, and how can we apply this principle in our daily lives?

4. What are some modern-day examples of legalism that we might encounter, and how can we respond to them in a Christ-like manner?

5. How can we cultivate the courage to stand for truth and compassion in situations where it might be easier to conform to societal or religious expectations?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Matthew 12:9-14
This parallel account provides additional context and details about the same event, highlighting the tension between Jesus and the Pharisees.

Luke 6:6-11
Another parallel passage that emphasizes Jesus' authority over the Sabbath and His compassion for those in need.

Exodus 20:8-11
The original commandment regarding the Sabbath, which the Pharisees are interpreting in their confrontation with Jesus.

Isaiah 1:13-17
A prophetic critique of empty ritualism, which aligns with Jesus' challenge to the Pharisees' legalistic approach to the Sabbath.
But They Held Their PeaceA.F. Muir Mark 3:4
A Withered HandQuesnel.Mark 3:1-5
Analogies of FaithS. S. Bosward.Mark 3:1-5
Christ and the SabbathJ. B. Lister.Mark 3:1-5
Divine Kindness Amid Human OppositionD. Davies, M. A.Mark 3:1-5
Good Lawfully Done on the SabbathW. M. Taylor, D. D.Mark 3:1-5
PublicityBishop Hall.Mark 3:1-5
Restoring of the Man with the Withered HandExpository OutlinesMark 3:1-5
Stretch Forth Thine HandA. F. Muir, M. A.Mark 3:1-5
The Good Eye and the Evil EyeT. T. Lynch.Mark 3:1-5
The Human Side of a MiracleS. S. Bosward.Mark 3:1-5
The Power of the Human HandH. R. Reynolds, B. A.Mark 3:1-5
The Sin of Neglecting to Do GoodG. Petter.Mark 3:1-5
The Withered HandW. S. Houghton.Mark 3:1-5
The Withered HandH. R. Reynolds, B. A.Mark 3:1-5
To Save Life or to Kill?H. M. Luckock, D. D.Mark 3:1-5
Withered HandsDr. Parker.Mark 3:1-5
Sabbath ObservanceE. Johnson Mark 3:1-6
The Man with the Withered HandJ.J. Given Mark 3:1-6
The Man with the Withered Hand; Or, Keeping the SabbathA.F. Muir Mark 3:1-6
People
Alphaeus, Andrew, Bartholomew, Beelzebub, Boanerges, Herodians, James, Jesus, John, Judas, Matthew, Peter, Philip, Simon, Thaddaeus, Thomas, Zabdi, Zebedee
Places
Capernaum, Galilee, Idumea, Jerusalem, Jordan River, Judea, Sea of Galilee, Sidon, Tyre
Topics
Allowed, Death, Destroy, Evil, Harm, Held, Kept, Kill, Lawful, Nothing, Peace, Sabbath, Sabbaths, Save, Says, Silent
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Mark 3:4

     5168   muteness
     5379   law, Christ's attitude
     5950   silence
     6163   faults

Mark 3:1-6

     7430   Sabbath, in NT

Mark 3:4-5

     2009   Christ, anger of

Library
And Judas Iscariot
AND JUDAS ISCARIOT TEXT: "And Judas Iscariot."--Mark 3:19. There is something about the name of this miserable man which commands our attention at once. There is a sort of fascination about his wickedness, and when we read his story it is difficult to give it up until we have come to its awful end. It is rather significant, it would seem to me, that his name should come last in the list of the Apostles, and the text, "And Judas Iscariot," would suggest to me not only that his name was last, but
J. Wilbur Chapman—And Judas Iscariot

'He is Beside Himself'
'And when His friends heard of it, they went out to lay hold on Him: for they said, He is beside Himself'--Mark iii. 21. There had been great excitement in the little town of Capernaum in consequence of Christ's teachings and miracles. It had been intensified by His infractions of the Rabbinical Sabbath law, and by His appointment of the twelve Apostles. The sacerdotal party in Capernaum apparently communicated with Jerusalem, with the result of bringing a deputation from the Sanhedrim to look into
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Christ's Relations
'Whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is My brother, and My sister, and mother.'--Mark iii. 35. There was a conspiracy to seize Jesus because He is 'mad,' and Mary was in the plot! I. The example for us. (1) Of how all natural and human ties and affections are to be subordinated to doing God's will. Obedience to Him is the first and main thing to which everything else bows, and which determines everything. If others compete or interfere, reject them. Out of that common obedience new ties
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Anger and Grief of Jesus
He looked round about on them with anger, being grieved for the hardness of their hearts.'--Mark iii. 5. Our Lord goes into the synagogue at Capernaum, where He had already wrought more than one miracle, and there He finds an object for His healing power, in a poor man with a withered hand; and also a little knot of His enemies. The scribes and Pharisees expect Christ to heal the man. So much had they learned of His tenderness and of His power. But their belief that He could work a miracle did not
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Mistakes of Christ's Foes and Friends
'And the scribes which came down from Jerusalem said, He hath Beelzebub, and by the prince of the devils casteth He out devils. 23. And He called them unto Him, and said unto them in parables, How can Satan cast out Satan? 24. And if a kingdom be divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. 25. And if a house be divided against itself, that house cannot stand. 26. And if Satan rise up against himself, and be divided, he cannot stand, but hath an end. 27. No man can enter into a strong man's
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Christ's Kindred
'There came then His brethren and His mother, and, standing without, sent unto Him, calling Him. 32. And the multitude sat about Him; and they said unto Him, Behold, Thy mother and Thy brethren without seek for Thee. 33. And He answered them, saying, Who is My mother, or My brethren? 34. And He looked round about on them which sat about Him, and said, Behold My mother and My brethren! 35. For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is My brother, and My sister, and mother.'--Mark iii. 31-35.
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Ambassadors for Christ
'And the Pharisees went forth, and straightway took counsel with the Herodlans against Him, how they might destroy Him. 7. But Jesus withdrew Himself with His disciples to the sea: and a great multitude from Galilee followed Him, and from Judaa 8. And from Jerusalem, and from Idumaa beyond Jordan; and they about Tyre and Sidon, a great multitude, when they had heard what great things He did, came unto Him. 9. And He spake to His disciples, that a small ship should wait on Him because of the multitude,
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Necessity of Divine Influences. [*Continued]
Luke xi. 13.--"If ye, then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children; how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him." In expounding the doctrine of these words, in the preceding discourse, the argument for the necessity of Divine influences had reference to the more general aspects of man's character and condition. We were concerned with the origin of seriousness in view of a future life, and the production of a sense of moral corruption and
William G.T. Shedd—Sermons to the Natural Man

Jesus Angry with Hard Hearts
But I must not let imagination mislead me: they did nothing of the kind. Instead of this, they sat watching the Lord Jesus, not to be delighted by an act of his power, but to find somewhat of which they might accuse him. When all came to all, the utmost that they would be able to allege would be that he had healed a withered hand on the Sabbath. Overlooking the commendation due for the miracle of healing, they laid the emphasis upon its being done on the Sabbath; and held up their hands with horror
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 32: 1886

Mutual Help.
(Female Friendly Society.) S. MARK iii. 35. "Whosoever shall do the Will of God, the same is My brother, and My sister, and My mother." There are just two points which I want to put before you to-day. First, what you as Christian women ought to be. Secondly, how you can help each other to be so. On the first point I would ask you to remember the glory and dignity of womanhood. You get this dignity from Jesus Christ, who was born of a woman, and who said, "Whosoever shall do the Will of God, the
H. J. Wilmot-Buxton—The Life of Duty, a Year's Plain Sermons, v. 2

The Eccentricity of Religion
"They said, He is beside Himself,"--MARK iii. 21. THE most pathetic life in the history of the world is the life of the Lord Jesus. Those who study it find out, every day, a fresh sorrow. Before He came it was already foretold that He would be acquainted with grief, but no imagination has ever conceived the darkness of the reality. It began with one of the bitterest kinds of sorrow--the sorrow of an enforced silence. For thirty years He saw, but dared not act. The wrongs He came to redress were there.
Henry Drummond—The Ideal Life

The Hardening Operation of Love.
"Being grieved for the hardness of their heart."--Mark iii. 5. Love may also be reversed. Failing to cherish, to uplift, and to enrich, it consumes and destroys. This is a mystery which man can not fathom. It belongs to the unsearchable depths of the divine Being, of which we do not wish to know more than has been revealed. But this does not alter the fact. No creature can exclude itself from the divine control. No man can say that he has nothing to do with God; that he or any other creature exists
Abraham Kuyper—The Work of the Holy Spirit

Life and Character of John
"Volat avis sine meta, Quo nec votes nec propheta Evolavit altius: Tam implenda quam impleta, Numquam vidit tot secreta Purus homo purius. (Adam of St. Victor.) The Mission of John. Peter, the Jewish apostle of authority, and Paul, the Gentile apostle of freedom, had done their work on earth before the destruction of Jerusalem--had done it for their age and for all ages to come; had done it, and by the influence of their writings are doing it still, in a manner that can never be superseded. Both
Philip Schaff—History of the Christian Church, Volume I

Whether the Sin against the Holy Ghost is the Same as the Sin Committed through Certain Malice?
Objection 1: It would seem that the sin against the Holy Ghost is not the same as the sin committed through certain malice. Because the sin against the Holy Ghost is the sin of blasphemy, according to Mat. 12:32. But not every sin committed through certain malice is a sin of blasphemy: since many other kinds of sin may be committed through certain malice. Therefore the sin against the Holy Ghost is not the same as the sin committed through certain malice. Objection 2: Further, the sin committed through
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

The Great Schism
If a house be divided against itself.--Mark iii, 25. From such a revival as that of the Great Awakening, parties must of necessity arise. Upon undisciplined fanaticism, the Established church must frown. But when it undertook to discipline large numbers of church members or whole churches, recognizedly within its embracing fold and within their lawful privileges, a great schism resulted, and the schismatics were sufficiently tenacious of their rights to come out victorious in their long contest for
M. Louise Greene, Ph. D.—The Development of Religious Liberty in Connecticut

The Abrogation of the Saybrook Platform
That house cannot stand.--Mark iii, 25. The times change and we change with them.--Proverb. The omission of all persecuting acts from the revision of the laws in 1750 was evidence that the worst features of the great schism were passing, that public opinion as a whole had grown averse to any great severity toward the Separatists as dissenters. But the continuance in the revised statutes of the Saybrook Platform as the legalized constitution of the "Presbyterian, Congregational or Consociated Church,"
M. Louise Greene, Ph. D.—The Development of Religious Liberty in Connecticut

The Apostle Judas
"And Judas Iscariot, which also betrayed Him." MARK 3:19 (R.V.) THE evidential value of what has been written about the apostles will, to some minds, seem to be overborne by the difficulties which start up at the name of Judas. And yet the fact that Jesus chose him -- that awful fact which has offended many -- is in harmony with all that we see around us, with the prodigious powers bestowed upon Napoleon and Voltaire, bestowed in full knowledge of the dark results, yet given because the issues of
G. A. Chadwick—The Gospel of St. Mark

The Withered Hand
"And He entered again into the synagogue; and there was a man there which had his hand withered. And they watched Him, whether He would heal him on the sabbath day; that they might accuse Him. And He saith unto the man that had his hand withered, Stand forth. And He saith unto them, Is it lawful on the sabbath day to do good or to do harm? to save a life, or to kill? But they held their peace. And when He had looked round about on them with anger, being grieved at the hardening of their heart, He
G. A. Chadwick—The Gospel of St. Mark

Characteristics of the Twelve
"And He appointed twelve, that they might be with Him, and that He might send them forth to preach, and to have authority to cast out devils: and Simon He surnamed Peter; and James the son of Zebedee, and John the brother of James; and them He surnamed Boanerges, which is, Sons of thunder; and Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddeaus, and Simon the Cananean, and Judas Iscariot which also betrayed Him." MARK 3:14-19 (R.V.) THE pictures
G. A. Chadwick—The Gospel of St. Mark

Christ and Beelzebub
"And the multitude cometh together again, so that they could not so much as eat bread. And when his friends heard it, they went out to lay hold on Him: for they said, He is beside Himself. And the scribes which came down from Jerusalem said, He hath Beelzebub, and, By the prince of the devils casteth He out the devils. And He called them unto Him, and said unto them in parables, How can Satan cast out Satan? And if a kingdom be divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. And if an house be
G. A. Chadwick—The Gospel of St. Mark

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