Mark 14:51
One young man who had been following Jesus was wearing a linen cloth around his body. They caught hold of him,
One young man
This phrase introduces an unnamed individual, highlighting his youth and anonymity. The Greek word for "young man" is "νεανίσκος" (neaniskos), which often refers to a young adult. This detail may suggest the vulnerability and impulsiveness of youth, as well as the idea that even the young were drawn to Jesus' teachings. Historically, this could symbolize the new generation of believers who would carry forward the message of Christ.

who had been following Jesus
The act of following Jesus is significant, as it implies discipleship and commitment. The Greek word "ἀκολουθέω" (akoloutheō) means to accompany or follow someone as a disciple. This young man's presence at such a critical moment underscores the widespread impact of Jesus' ministry and the diverse group of followers He attracted. It also serves as a reminder of the call to follow Christ, even in times of danger or uncertainty.

was wearing a linen cloth
The linen cloth, or "σινδών" (sindōn) in Greek, is a garment often associated with wealth or burial practices. This detail might suggest that the young man came from a family of means or that he was hastily dressed, possibly indicating the urgency of the situation. Linen was a valuable fabric, and its mention here could symbolize purity or the fleeting nature of earthly possessions in the face of spiritual pursuits.

around his body
This phrase emphasizes the minimal covering of the young man, highlighting vulnerability and exposure. The Greek word "περιβεβλημένος" (peribeblēmenos) means to be clothed or wrapped around. This imagery can be seen as a metaphor for the spiritual state of humanity—exposed and in need of the covering of Christ's righteousness. It also foreshadows the stripping away of earthly securities when one chooses to follow Jesus.

They caught hold of him
The act of being seized is significant, as it represents the physical and spiritual trials faced by followers of Christ. The Greek word "κρατέω" (krateō) means to take hold of or seize. This moment captures the tension and danger surrounding Jesus' arrest, reflecting the cost of discipleship. It serves as a powerful reminder of the challenges believers may face and the courage required to stand firm in faith amidst persecution.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Young Man
An unnamed young man who was following Jesus during His arrest. His identity is not specified, but he is noted for wearing a linen cloth.

2. Jesus
Central figure in the Gospel, who is being arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane at this point in the account.

3. Garden of Gethsemane
The place where Jesus was praying and subsequently arrested. It is located on the Mount of Olives, just outside Jerusalem.

4. Disciples
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, they are present in the surrounding context, having fled when Jesus was arrested.

5. Arresting Party
The group of soldiers and officials who came to arrest Jesus, leading to the young man's flight.
Teaching Points
The Cost of Discipleship
Following Jesus can lead to unexpected challenges and moments of fear. The young man's flight illustrates the human tendency to flee in the face of danger.

Symbolism of the Linen Cloth
The linen cloth may symbolize purity or a new beginning, yet it is left behind, suggesting the vulnerability and cost of following Christ.

Youth and Courage
The presence of a young man highlights the role of youth in the early Christian movement and the courage required to follow Jesus.

Fleeing from Sin
Just as the young man fled from the scene, believers are called to flee from sin and temptation, seeking refuge in Christ.

Identity in Christ
The anonymity of the young man can remind us that our identity is found in Christ, not in our earthly status or possessions.
Bible Study Questions
1. What does the young man's reaction to Jesus' arrest teach us about human nature and fear?

2. How can the symbolism of the linen cloth inform our understanding of purity and vulnerability in our spiritual walk?

3. In what ways does the young man's experience parallel our own challenges in standing firm in our faith?

4. How can we draw strength from other scriptures, such as John 18:15-16, to remain steadfast in our discipleship?

5. What practical steps can we take to ensure that we are fleeing from sin and temptation in our daily lives, as suggested by the young man's flight?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Mark 14:50
This verse immediately precedes Mark 14:51 and describes how all the disciples deserted Jesus and fled, setting the stage for the young man's encounter.

John 18:15-16
These verses describe another young man, John, who followed Jesus after His arrest, providing a parallel of youthful discipleship and courage.

Amos 2:16
This Old Testament verse speaks of the flight of the bravest warriors, drawing a thematic parallel to the young man's flight in Mark 14:51.
BetrayalR. Green Mark 14:10, 11, 17-21, 43-52
Peter's FallR. Green Mark 14:27-31, 66-72
Violence and MeeknessE. Johnson Mark 14:43-52
Haste in ReligionC. H. Spurgeon.Mark 14:51-52
People
James, Jesus, John, Judas, Peter, Simon
Places
Bethany, Galilee, Gethsemane, Jerusalem, Mount of Olives
Topics
Bare, Body, Cast, Cloth, Follow, Followed, Garment, Grabbed, Hands, Hold, Indeed, Laid, Lay, Linen, Naked, Nothing, Round, Seize, Seized, Sheet, Thrown, Wearing, Youth
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Mark 14:51

     5392   linen
     8120   following Christ

Library
July 28 Evening
Let your requests be made known unto God.--PHIL. 4:6. Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me: nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt.--There was given to me a thorn in the flesh. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities. I poured out my complaint before him; I shewed
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

July 18 Evening
She hath done what she could.--MARK 14:8. This poor widow hath cast in more than they all.--Whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward.--If there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not. Let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.--If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, and one of you
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

February 7 Evening
Jesus . . . was moved with compassion toward them.--MATT. 14:14. Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and for ever.--We have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.--Who can have compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way.--He cometh, and findeth them sleeping, and saith unto Peter, Simon, sleepest thou? couldest not thou watch one hour? Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

'Is it I?'
'Is it I?'--Mark xiv. 19 The scene shows that Judas had not as yet drawn any suspicion on himself. Here the Apostles seem to be higher than their ordinary stature; for they do not take to questioning one another, or even to protest, 'No!' but to questioning Christ. I. The solemn prophecy. It seems strange at first sight that our Lord should have introduced such thoughts then, disturbing the sweet repose of that hallowed hour. But the terrible fact of the betrayal was naturally suggested by the emblems
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Sleeping Apostle
'Simon, sleepest thou!'--Mark xiv. 37 It is a very old Christian tradition that this Gospel is in some sense the Apostle Peter's. There are not many features in the Gospel itself which can be relied on as confirming this idea. Perhaps one such may be found in this plaintive remonstrance, which is only preserved for us here. Matthew's Gospel, indeed, tells us that the rebuke was addressed to Peter, but blunts the sharp point of it as directed to him, by throwing it into the plural, as if spoken to
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

A Secret Rendezvous
'And the first day of unleavened bread, when they killed the pastorer, His disciples said unto Him, Where wilt Thou that we go and prepare that Thou mayest eat the passover? 13. And He sendeth forth two of His disciples, and saith unto them, Go ye into the city, and there shall meet you a man bearing a pitcher of water: follow him. 14. And wheresoever he shall go in, say ye to the goodman of the house, The Master saith, Where is the guestchamber, where I shall eat the passover with My disciples?
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The New Passover
'And the first day of unleavened bread, when they killed the Passover, the disciples said unto Him, Where wilt Thou that we go and prepare that Thou mayest eat the Passover? 13. And He sendeth forth two of His disciples, and saith unto them, Go ye into the city, and there shall meet you a man bearing a pitcher of water: follow him. 14. And wheresoever he shall go in, say ye to the goodman of the house, The Master saith, Where is the guestchamber, where I shall eat the Passover with My disciples?
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

'Strong Crying and Tears'
'And they came to a place which was named Gethsemane: and He saith to His disciples, Sit ye here, while I shall pray. 33. And He taketh with Him Peter and James and John, and began to be sore amazed, and to be very heavy; 34. And saith onto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful unto death: tarry ye here, and watch. 35. And He went forward a little, and fell on the ground, and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from Him. 36. And He said, Abba, Father, all things are possible unto
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Captive Christ and the Circle Round Him
'And immediately, while He yet spake, cometh Judas, one of the twelve, and with him a great multitude with swords and staves, from the chief priests and the scribes and the elders. 44. And he that betrayed Him had given them a token, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is He; take Him, and lead Him away safely. 45. And as soon as he was come, he goeth straightway to Him, and saith, Master, Master; and kissed Him. 46. And they laid their hands on Him, and took Him. 47. And one of them that
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Condemnation which Condemns the Judges
'And the chief priests and all the council sought for witness against Jesus to put Him to death; and found none. 56. For many bare false witness against Him, but their witness agreed not together. 57. And there arose certain, and bare false witness against Him, saying, 58. We heard Him say, I will destroy this temple that is made with hands, and within three days I will build another made without hands. 59. But neither so did their witness agree together. 60. And the high priest stood up in their
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Alabaster Box
'And Jesus said, Let her alone; why trouble ye her? she hath wrought a good work on Me.... 8. She hath done what she could: she is come aforehand to anoint My body to the burying. 9. Verily I say unto you. Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached throughout the whole world, this also that she hath done shall be spoken of for a memorial of her.'--Mark xiv. 6-9. John's Gospel sets this incident in its due framework of time and place, and tells us the names of the actors. The time was within a week
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Questions About the Lord's Supper
THE paper which begins at this page requires a few words of prefatory explanation. It consists of fifty-one questions about the Lord's Supper, with special reference to points which are the subject of much dispute and controversy in the present day. It supplies fifty-one answers to these questions, chiefly drawn from the New Testament, and the Articles, Communion Service, and Catechism of the Church of England. It contains, in addition, some valuable extracts from the writings of standard English
John Charles Ryle—The Upper Room: Being a Few Truths for the Times

That He who is About to Communicate with Christ Ought to Prepare Himself with Great Diligence
The Voice of the Beloved I am the Lover of purity, and Giver of sanctity. I seek a pure heart, and there is the place of My rest. Prepare for Me the larger upper room furnished, and I will keep the Passover at thy house with my disciples.(1) If thou wilt that I come unto thee and abide with thee, purge out the old leaven,(2) and cleanse the habitation of thy heart. Shut out the whole world, and all the throng of sins; sit as a sparrow alone upon the house-top,(3) and think upon thy transgressions
Thomas A Kempis—Imitation of Christ

Twenty-Eighth Lesson. Father! not what I Will;'
Father! Not what I will;' Or, Christ the Sacrifice. And He said, Abba, Father, all things are possible unto Thee; remove this cup from me: howbeit not what I will, but what Thou wilt.'--Mark xiv. 36. WHAT a contrast within the space of a few hours! What a transition from the quiet elevation of that, He lifted up His eyes to heaven, and said, FATHER I WILL,' to that falling on the ground and crying in agony. My Father! Not what I will.' In the one we see the High Priest within the veil in His
Andrew Murray—With Christ in the School of Prayer

Letter xiii. Christian Activity.
"She hath done what she could."--MARK 14:8. MY DEAR SISTER, You doubtless feel a deep interest in the great benevolent enterprises of the present day. No one who possesses the spirit of our Master can be indifferent towards them. It is important, then, that you should know what you can do towards moving forward these enterprises. For, remember that your obligation is as extensive as your ability. Christ commended the woman, referred to in the passage above quoted for doing "what she could."
Harvey Newcomb—A Practical Directory for Young Christian Females

Mark.
Commentaries. George Petter (the largest Com. on M., London, 1661, 2 vols. fol.); C. Fr. A. Fritzsche (Evangelium Marci, Lips., 1830); A. Klostermann (Das Marcusevangelium nach seinem Quellenwerthe für die evang. Gesch., Göttingen, 1867); B. Weiss (Das Marcusevangelium und seine synopt. Parallelen, Berlin, 1872); Meyer (6th ed. by Weiss, Gött., 1878); Joseph A. Alexander (New York, 1858, and London, 1866); Harvey Goodwin (London, 1860); John H. Godwin (London, 1869); James Morison
Philip Schaff—History of the Christian Church, Volume I

"She Hath done what She Could. " Mark 14:8.
"She hath done what she could." Mark 14:8. 1 Bless, O bless, Almighty Father, Woman's mission with our race,-- Her fond strivings here to gather Fruits of thy redeeming grace. 2 Though her way be not where honor Wins the gazing world's acclaim, Yet we bless thee that upon her Rests the power of Jesus' name. 3 In that name, O Father, strengthen Her full heart and ready hands; May her efforts serve to lengthen Christian love's encircling bands. 4 Where the mourning and the needy And the suffering
J.G. Adams—Hymns for Christian Devotion

Jerusalem
For the history of the disciples after the death of Jesus we are dependent upon a single source, the Acts of the Apostles, which can, however, be controlled, and to some extent corrected, by the gospels and by the epistles of Paul. It is now generally recognised that if any one wishes to write a life of Christ he ought to base his work not on the gospels as we have them now, but rather on the information provided by the critical analysis of the gospels as to their sources. These sources, or at least
Kirsopp Lake—Landmarks in the History of Early Christianity

Watch and Pray. --Mark. xiv. 38
Watch and Pray.--Mark. xiv. 38. Our Saviour's words are "Watch and Pray:" Lord, make us willing to obey; Lord, make us able to fulfil Thy counsel--give both power and will. The wisdom from above impart, To keep our hand, and tongue, and heart, In thought, word, deed,--that so we may Pray whilst we watch, watch while we pray. Lest while we watch, and fear no snare, We fall into neglect of prayer; Or, while we pray, and watch not, sin Creep like a subtil serpent in. When by an evil world beset,
James Montgomery—Sacred Poems and Hymns

As the Rind of a Pomegranate are Thy Cheeks, Besides that which is Hidden Within.
As the rind of the pomegranate is the least part of it, and includes all its excellence, so with this soul, its exterior appears of small account in comparison with what is concealed within. [42] The interior is filled with, the purest charity and the most advanced graces, but hidden under a very common exterior; for God takes pleasure in hiding away the souls He destines for Himself. Men are not worthy to know them, though the angels admire and respect them even under the humblest external form
Madame Guyon—Song of Songs of Solomon

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