Devine Scripture

Mark 4:16

What does Mark 4:16 mean?

A plain-English look at Mark 4:16 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Mark 4:16 means

Those represented by the "rocky places" are individuals who initially receive the Word of God with enthusiasm and joy. Their quick reception suggests an immediate emotional and intellectual assent. However, this verse points to a superficiality in their commitment, hinting that this initial burst of joy does not signify deep, lasting spiritual transformation. It introduces the idea of temporary responsiveness.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

And these in like manner are they that are sown upon the rocky places, who, when they have heard the word, straightway receive it with joy;

KJV

King James Version · 1611

And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness;

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

And these in like manner are they that are sown upon the rocky places, who, when they have heard the word, straightway receive it with joy;

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And in the same way, these are they who are planted on the stones, who, when the word has come to their ears, straight away take it with joy;

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

`And these are they, in like manner, who on the rocky ground are sown: who, whenever they may hear the word, immediately with joy do receive it,

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

And these likewise are they that are sown on the stony ground: who when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with joy.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

And these are they in like manner who are sown upon the rocky places, who when they hear the word, immediately receive it with joy,

Context

This verse continues Jesus' interpretation of the Parable of the Sower, explaining the second type of hearer. It follows the explanation of the wayside hearers and precedes the clarification of why these individuals ultimately wither. Understanding their initial joyful reception is key to appreciating the fragility of their faith, as illuminated in the next verse by the absence of "root."

v.15And these are they by the way side, where the word is sown; and when they have heard, straightway cometh Satan, and taketh away the word which hath been sown in them.

v.16This passage

v.17and they have no root in themselves, but endure for a while; then, when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, straightway they stumble.

Cross references

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

  • Acts 24:25

    And as he reasoned of righteousness, and self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix was terrified, and answered, Go thy way for this time; and when I have a convenient season, I will call thee unto me.

  • Mark 6:20

    for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and kept him safe. And when he heard him, he was much perplexed; and he heard him gladly.

  • John 5:35

    He was the lamp that burneth and shineth; and ye were willing to rejoice for a season in his light.

  • Luke 8:13

    And those on the rock are they who, when they have heard, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, who for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away.

  • Matthew 13:20

    And he that was sown upon the rocky places, this is he that heareth the word, and straightway with joy receiveth it;

  • Ezekiel 33:31

    And they come unto thee as the people cometh, and they sit before thee as my people, and they hear thy words, but do them not; for with their mouth they show much love, but their heart goeth after their gain.

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