Devine Scripture

Mark 13:5

What does Mark 13:5 mean?

A plain-English look at Mark 13:5 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Mark 13:5 means

Jesus began His detailed response to the disciples' questions with a solemn warning: "Take heed that no man lead you astray." This initial admonition establishes a primary concern for His followers in the last days: the danger of deception. Jesus understood that false teachers and misleading doctrines would be a significant challenge, seeking to divert believers from the truth. This warning emphasizes the importance of spiritual discernment and steadfastness in faith, as error often precedes tribulation.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

And Jesus began to say unto them, Take heed that no man lead you astray.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

And Jesus answering them began to say, Take heed lest any man deceive you:

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

And Jesus began to say unto them, Take heed that no man lead you astray.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And Jesus said to them, Take care that you are not tricked by anyone.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

And Jesus answering them, began to say, `Take heed lest any one may lead you astray,

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

And Jesus answering, began to say to them: Take heed lest any man deceive you.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

And Jesus answering them began to say, Take heed lest any one mislead you.

Context

This verse introduces the first major theme of Jesus' Olivet Discourse: the danger of deception. It directly follows the disciples' questions about the timing and signs of future events (v. 4). This warning about being led astray sets the tone for the coming descriptions of false Christs and prophets, establishing an overarching caution for believers to remain vigilant and grounded in truth amidst the confusion of the end times.

v.4Tell us, when shall these things be? and whatshall bethe sign when these things are all about to be accomplished?

v.5This passage

v.6Many shall come in my name, saying, I am he; and shall lead many astray.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Revelation 20:7

    And when the thousand years are finished, Satan shall be loosed out of his prison,

  • Matthew 24:4

    And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man lead you astray.

  • Jeremiah 29:8

    For thus saith Jehovah of hosts, the God of Israel: Let not your prophets that are in the midst of you, and your diviners, deceive you; neither hearken ye to your dreams which ye cause to be dreamed.

  • 2 Thessalonians 2:3

    let no man beguile you in any wise: for it will not be, except the falling away come first, and the man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition,

  • Ephesians 5:6

    Let no man deceive you with empty words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the sons of disobedience.

  • Luke 21:8

    And he said, Take heed that ye be not led astray: for many shall come in my name, saying, I am he; and, The time is at hand: go ye not after them.

Related questions readers ask

Keep reading

Want to dig deeper? Explore Mark 13

Hand-picked devotionals, topical studies, and pastoral answers that draw on Mark 13.

Keep exploring

Follow this verse across Scripture

Topics, devotionals, original-language word studies, and figures connected to Mark 13:5.

Browse every hub

BibleTopicsBible answersDevotionalsFamous passagesWord studiesPeoplePlacesVerses for…Reading plansCommentary