Mark 6:35

By now the hour was already late. So the disciples came to Jesus and said, "This is a desolate place, and the hour is already late.

Study Bible

By now
This phrase indicates a progression of time and events leading up to this moment. In the context of Mark 6, Jesus had been teaching a large crowd, and the disciples were becoming concerned about the practical needs of the people. The Greek word used here, "ἤδη" (ēdē), suggests a sense of urgency and immediacy. It implies that the situation has reached a critical point where action is necessary. This reflects the disciples' growing awareness of the logistical challenges they faced, highlighting their reliance on Jesus for guidance and provision.

the hour
The term "hour" in Greek is "ὥρα" (hōra), which can refer to a specific time of day or a significant moment. In the biblical context, it often signifies a divinely appointed time for action or revelation. Here, it underscores the pressing nature of the situation, as the day was drawing to a close. This moment serves as a prelude to the miraculous feeding of the five thousand, illustrating how Jesus operates within God's perfect timing to meet the needs of His people.

was already
The use of "already" emphasizes that the situation had developed to a point where immediate attention was required. The Greek word "ἤδη" (ēdē) is repeated here, reinforcing the sense of urgency. This repetition highlights the disciples' concern and the pressing need for a solution. It also sets the stage for Jesus to demonstrate His divine authority and compassion, as He prepares to address the physical hunger of the crowd.

late
The word "late" in Greek is "πολλῆς" (pollēs), which can mean much or many, but in this context, it refers to the lateness of the hour. This detail is significant because it underscores the limitations of human resources and the disciples' inability to provide for the crowd on their own. The lateness of the hour symbolizes the end of human effort and the beginning of divine intervention. It serves as a reminder that God's provision often comes when we have exhausted our own means, encouraging believers to trust in His timing and sufficiency.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus
Central figure in the Gospel of Mark, performing miracles and teaching the crowds.

2. The Disciples
Followers of Jesus who are learning from His teachings and witnessing His miracles.

3. The Desolate Place
A remote area where Jesus and His disciples had gone to find rest, but were followed by a large crowd.

4. The Crowd
A large group of people who followed Jesus to hear His teachings and witness His miracles.

5. The Event
The setting for the miracle of feeding the 5,000, which follows this verse.

Teaching Points

Recognizing Human Limitations
The disciples acknowledge the lateness of the hour and the desolation of the place, highlighting human limitations in contrast to divine provision.

Dependence on Jesus
In times of need and desolation, we are reminded to turn to Jesus, who can provide beyond our expectations.

Faith in Action
The disciples' concern for the crowd's needs prompts them to seek Jesus' guidance, illustrating the importance of faith in action.

God's Timing
The mention of the late hour reminds us that God's timing is perfect, even when it seems inconvenient to us.

Compassion for Others
The disciples' awareness of the crowd's needs reflects the importance of compassion and care for others in our Christian walk.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the setting of a "desolate place" in Mark 6:35 relate to times of spiritual desolation in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate faith in action when faced with seemingly impossible situations, as the disciples did?

3. How does the miracle that follows this verse illustrate Jesus' ability to provide for our needs? Can you think of a personal example where you experienced God's provision?

4. How can we cultivate a heart of compassion for others, as the disciples showed concern for the crowd?

5. Reflect on a time when God's timing seemed late to you. How did the situation resolve, and what did you learn about trusting in God's perfect timing?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 14:15-21
This passage parallels Mark 6:35 and provides additional details about the feeding of the 5,000.

John 6:1-14
Offers another perspective on the same event, emphasizing Jesus as the Bread of Life.

Psalm 23:1-2
The imagery of a desolate place can be contrasted with the Lord as our Shepherd, who provides and leads us to green pastures.

Exodus 16
The provision of manna in the wilderness is a foreshadowing of Jesus' miraculous feeding of the multitude.