Mark 12:22

In this way, none of the seven left any children. And last of all, the woman died.

Study Bible

So the seven
This phrase refers to the seven brothers mentioned in the preceding verses of Mark 12. In the context of the Sadducees' question to Jesus, these brothers were part of a hypothetical scenario designed to challenge the concept of resurrection. The number seven in biblical terms often symbolizes completeness or perfection, which may imply the totality of the situation being presented. Historically, the Sadducees, who did not believe in the resurrection, used this scenario to mock the idea of life after death. The use of "seven" here underscores the exhaustive nature of their argument.

left no children
The Greek word for "left" is "kataleipō," which means to leave behind or abandon. In the context of Jewish law, particularly the Levirate marriage law found in Deuteronomy 25:5-10, the duty of a brother-in-law was to marry the widow and produce offspring to carry on the deceased brother's name. The fact that none of the seven brothers left children highlights the failure to fulfill this duty, which would have been a significant concern in Jewish society. This detail emphasizes the perceived absurdity of the scenario from the Sadducees' perspective, as it challenges the continuity of family lineage and inheritance.

Last of all
This phrase indicates the conclusion of the sequence of events. In the narrative, it serves to bring the hypothetical situation to its climax. The Greek word "eschatos" is used here, which can mean last in time or last in a series. It is often used in eschatological contexts, referring to the end times or final events. In this passage, it marks the end of the brothers' attempts to fulfill their duty and sets the stage for the ultimate question about the resurrection.

the woman died too
The death of the woman is the final element in the Sadducees' scenario. Her death without children would have been seen as a tragedy in the cultural and religious context of the time, as it meant the end of her husband's family line. The Greek word for "died" is "apothnēskō," which simply means to die or to be dead. This phrase underscores the finality of death in the Sadducees' worldview, which denied any form of resurrection or afterlife. In their view, death was the ultimate end, with no hope of continuation or redemption beyond the grave.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Sadducees
A Jewish sect known for their denial of the resurrection, who posed the question to Jesus to challenge Him.

2. The Seven Brothers
A hypothetical scenario presented by the Sadducees, where each brother marries the same woman in succession after the previous one dies.

3. The Woman
Central to the Sadducees' question, she marries each brother and eventually dies without bearing children.

4. Jesus
The teacher and central figure in the Gospel of Mark, who is being questioned by the Sadducees.

5. Jerusalem
The setting of this encounter, where Jesus is teaching in the temple courts.

Teaching Points

Understanding the Resurrection
The Sadducees' question reveals their misunderstanding of the resurrection. Jesus' response (in the following verses) clarifies that earthly relationships do not define heavenly realities.

The Importance of Scripture
Jesus often points back to Scripture to correct misunderstandings. We should also rely on Scripture to guide our beliefs and correct errors.

Faith Beyond Logic
The Sadducees' question is rooted in human logic. Faith sometimes requires us to trust in God's promises beyond our understanding.

Eternal Perspective
This passage encourages believers to focus on eternal truths rather than getting caught up in earthly concerns.

God's Power and Wisdom
Jesus' response highlights God's power to transcend human limitations and His wisdom in orchestrating life beyond our comprehension.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the Sadducees' question reflect their beliefs about the resurrection, and how does this challenge us to examine our own beliefs about life after death?

2. In what ways does Jesus' response to the Sadducees (in the following verses) demonstrate the importance of understanding Scripture accurately?

3. How can the concept of the resurrection provide comfort and hope in our daily lives, especially in times of loss or uncertainty?

4. What are some practical ways we can shift our focus from earthly concerns to an eternal perspective in our daily decision-making?

5. How does understanding God's power and wisdom, as demonstrated in this passage, influence our trust in Him when faced with life's challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 25:5-6
This passage outlines the Levirate marriage law, which the Sadducees reference in their question to Jesus.

Matthew 22:23-33 and Luke 20:27-40
Parallel accounts of this encounter, providing additional context and Jesus' response.

1 Corinthians 15:12-22
Paul's teaching on the resurrection, affirming the reality of life after death, which the Sadducees denied.

Acts 23:8
Highlights the doctrinal differences between the Sadducees and Pharisees, particularly regarding the resurrection.