BSBKJVWEBYLTASVBBEWMBT4TDBY|HymnsMusicDonate
Menu
Home  › Bibles  › Berean Standard Bible  › Mark 11

Mark 11

BSB
‹ Chapter 10 Mark — All Chapters Chapter 12 ›

1 As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage and Bethany at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent out two of His disciples 2 and said to them, “Go into the village ahead of you, and as soon as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, on which no one has ever sat. Untie it and bring it here. 3 If anyone asks, ‘Why are you doing this?’ tell him, ‘The Lord needs it and will return it shortly.’" 4 So they went and found the colt outside in the street, tied at a doorway. They untied it, 5 and some who were standing there asked, “Why are you untying the colt?" 6 The disciples answered as Jesus had instructed them, and the people gave them permission. 7 Then they led the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks over it, and He sat on it. 8 Many in the crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others spread branches they had cut from the fields. 9 The ones who went ahead and those who followed were shouting: “Hosanna!” “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!" 10 “Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David!” “Hosanna in the highest!" 11 Then Jesus entered Jerusalem and went into the temple courts. He looked around at everything, but since it was already late, He went out to Bethany with the Twelve. 12 The next day, when they had left Bethany, Jesus was hungry. 13 Seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, He went to see if there was any fruit on it. But when He reached it, He found nothing on it except leaves, since it was not the season for figs. 14 Then He said to the tree, “May no one ever eat of your fruit again.” And His disciples heard this statement. 15 When they arrived in Jerusalem, Jesus entered the temple courts and began to drive out those who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those selling doves. 16 And He would not allow anyone to carry merchandise through the temple courts. 17 Then Jesus began to teach them, and He declared, “Is it not written: ‘My house will be called a house of prayer for all the nations’ ? But you have made it ‘a den of robbers.’ “ 18 When the chief priests and scribes heard this, they looked for a way to kill Him. For they were afraid of Him, because the whole crowd was astonished at His teaching. 19 And when evening came, Jesus and His disciples went out of the city. 20 As they were walking back in the morning, they saw the fig tree withered from its roots. 21 Peter remembered it and said, “Look, Rabbi! The fig tree You cursed has withered." 22 “Have faith in God,” Jesus said to them. 23 “Truly I tell you that if anyone says to this mountain, ‘Be lifted up and thrown into the sea,’ and has no doubt in his heart but believes that it will happen, it will be done for him. 24 Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. 25 And when you stand to pray, if you hold anything against another, forgive it, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your trespasses as well. “ 27 After their return to Jerusalem, Jesus was walking in the temple courts, and the chief priests, scribes, and elders came up to Him. 28 “By what authority are You doing these things?” they asked. “And who gave You the authority to do them?" 29 “I will ask you one question,” Jesus replied, “and if you answer Me, I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things. 30 John’s baptism—was it from heaven or from men? Answer Me!" 31 They deliberated among themselves what they should answer: “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ He will ask, ‘Why then did you not believe him?’ 32 But if we say, ‘From men’…” they were afraid of the people, for they all held that John truly was a prophet. 33 So they answered, “We do not know.” And Jesus replied, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things."

‹ Chapter 10 Mark — All Chapters Chapter 12 ›

Study Notes — Mark 11

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Chapter Summary

Mark 11 begins with Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, where He is hailed as the Messiah by the crowds. Jesus then cleanses the temple, condemning the money changers and merchants for their corrupt practices. The chapter also records Jesus' cursing of the fig tree, which serves as a metaphor for the judgment of Israel. The Pharisees and other religious leaders question Jesus' authority, and He responds with a parable about the wicked tenants. The chapter concludes with Jesus' teaching on the importance of faith and prayer.

Context for the Chapter

Mark 11 is set in the final week of Jesus' life, as He approaches Jerusalem and the events leading up to His crucifixion and resurrection. The chapter is part of the larger narrative of Jesus' ministry, which emphasizes His teachings on the kingdom of God and the importance of faith and obedience. The chapter also looks back to the Old Testament prophecies and forward to the establishment of the church in the book of Acts.

Heart Application

As we reflect on Mark 11, we are reminded of the importance of faith and prayer in our lives. We are called to trust in God's power and goodness, even in the face of challenges and uncertainty. We are also reminded of the need for obedience and repentance, as we seek to follow Jesus and live out our faith in a world that often opposes us.

What Does This Chapter Mean?

Mark 11 is about Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem, where He is met with both adoration and hostility. Jesus teaches about faith and prayer, emphasizing their importance in the Christian life. As we reflect on this chapter, we are reminded of the need to trust in God's power and goodness, even in the face of challenges and uncertainty (Mark 11:22-24).

Voices from the Church

“The faith that Jesus commends is not a mere assent to doctrine, but a living trust in God's power and goodness.”

— John Calvin

“The mountain that can be moved through faith is not just a physical obstacle, but a symbol of the spiritual challenges that we face in our lives.”

— Charles Spurgeon

Outline for Preaching

  1. The Triumphant Entry (Mark 11:1-11) — Jesus enters Jerusalem, where He is hailed as the Messiah by the crowds. This event sets the stage for the events leading up to His crucifixion and resurrection.
  2. The Cleansing of the Temple (Mark 11:12-19) — Jesus drives out the money changers and merchants, condemning their corrupt practices and emphasizing the importance of worship and obedience.
  3. The Cursing of the Fig Tree (Mark 11:20-24) — Jesus curses the fig tree, which serves as a metaphor for the judgment of Israel. This event also highlights Jesus' power and authority over nature.
  4. The Teaching on Faith and Prayer (Mark 11:22-26) — Jesus teaches His disciples about the importance of faith and prayer, emphasizing their role in building a relationship with God and overcoming challenges.
  5. The Question of Authority (Mark 11:27-33) — The Pharisees and other religious leaders question Jesus' authority, and He responds with a parable about the wicked tenants. This exchange highlights the tension between Jesus and the religious leaders, as well as Jesus' emphasis on obedience and repentance.

Core Doctrines

The Authority of Christ
Mark 11 emphasizes Jesus' authority and power, as He confronts the religious leaders and demonstrates His control over nature and humanity.
The Importance of Faith
The chapter highlights the importance of faith in God, emphasizing its role in overcoming doubt and unbelief. Jesus' teachings on faith serve to remind believers of their dependence on God and the need for a personal relationship with Him.
The Power of Prayer
Jesus' teachings on prayer emphasize its importance in building a relationship with God and overcoming challenges. The chapter serves to remind believers of the need to trust in God's power and goodness, even in the face of uncertainty and adversity.
The Judgment of God
The chapter includes several references to judgment, including Jesus' cursing of the fig tree and His teachings on the importance of repentance and obedience. These themes serve to emphasize the seriousness of sin and the need for believers to trust in God's mercy and forgiveness.

Lessons from Mark 11

  1. The Importance of Faith — Mark 11 emphasizes the importance of faith in God, highlighting its role in overcoming doubt and unbelief. As believers, we are called to trust in God's power and goodness, even in the face of challenges and uncertainty.
  2. The Power of Prayer — Jesus' teachings on prayer emphasize its importance in building a relationship with God and overcoming challenges. As believers, we are called to trust in God's power and goodness, and to seek His guidance and wisdom through prayer.
  3. The Need for Obedience — The chapter highlights the importance of obedience and repentance, as Jesus confronts the religious leaders and emphasizes the need for faith and trust in God. As believers, we are called to obey God's commands and to seek His guidance and wisdom in our lives.
  4. The Judgment of God — The chapter includes several references to judgment, including Jesus' cursing of the fig tree and His teachings on the importance of repentance and obedience. As believers, we are called to trust in God's mercy and forgiveness, and to seek His guidance and wisdom in our lives.
  5. The Authority of Christ — Mark 11 emphasizes Jesus' authority and power, as He confronts the religious leaders and demonstrates His control over nature and humanity. As believers, we are called to trust in Jesus' authority and to seek His guidance and wisdom in our lives.

Themes from Mark 11

  1. The Kingdom of God — Mark 11 emphasizes Jesus' teachings on the kingdom of God, highlighting its importance in the Christian life. The chapter serves to remind believers of the need to trust in God's power and goodness, and to seek His guidance and wisdom in our lives.
  2. The Importance of Faith — The chapter highlights the importance of faith in God, emphasizing its role in overcoming doubt and unbelief. As believers, we are called to trust in God's power and goodness, even in the face of challenges and uncertainty.
  3. The Power of Prayer — Jesus' teachings on prayer emphasize its importance in building a relationship with God and overcoming challenges. The chapter serves to remind believers of the need to trust in God's power and goodness, and to seek His guidance and wisdom through prayer.
  4. The Judgment of God — The chapter includes several references to judgment, including Jesus' cursing of the fig tree and His teachings on the importance of repentance and obedience. As believers, we are called to trust in God's mercy and forgiveness, and to seek His guidance and wisdom in our lives.
  5. The Authority of Christ — Mark 11 emphasizes Jesus' authority and power, as He confronts the religious leaders and demonstrates His control over nature and humanity. As believers, we are called to trust in Jesus' authority and to seek His guidance and wisdom in our lives.

Questions for Meditation

  1. What does Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem reveal about His identity and mission?
  2. How does Jesus' cleansing of the temple relate to His teachings on worship and obedience?
  3. What does the cursing of the fig tree reveal about Jesus' power and authority?
  4. How does Jesus' teaching on faith and prayer relate to our lives as believers?
  5. What does the parable of the wicked tenants reveal about Jesus' relationship with the religious leaders and the nation of Israel?

Detailed Chapter Outline

1. The Triumphant Entry (Mark 11:1-11)

Mark 11:1 Jesus enters Jerusalem, where He is met with both adoration and hostility. This event sets the stage for the events leading up to His crucifixion and resurrection.
Mark 11:2 Jesus sends two of His disciples to fetch a donkey, which serves as a symbol of His humility and meekness.

2. The Cleansing of the Temple (Mark 11:12-19)

Mark 11:12 Jesus drives out the money changers and merchants, condemning their corrupt practices and emphasizing the importance of worship and obedience.
Mark 11:13 Jesus quotes from Isaiah and Jeremiah, emphasizing the importance of purity and holiness in worship.

3. The Cursing of the Fig Tree (Mark 11:20-24)

Mark 11:20 Jesus curses the fig tree, which serves as a metaphor for the judgment of Israel. This event also highlights Jesus' power and authority over nature.
Mark 11:21 Peter is amazed at the withering of the fig tree, and Jesus uses this opportunity to teach about faith and prayer.

4. The Teaching on Faith and Prayer (Mark 11:22-26)

Mark 11:22 Jesus teaches His disciples about the importance of faith in God, emphasizing its role in overcoming doubt and unbelief.
Mark 11:23 Jesus uses the example of the mountain that can be moved through faith, highlighting the power of prayer and trust in God.

5. The Question of Authority (Mark 11:27-33)

Mark 11:27 The Pharisees and other religious leaders question Jesus' authority, and He responds with a parable about the wicked tenants.
Mark 11:28 Jesus' parable serves to emphasize the importance of obedience and repentance, as well as the judgment that will come upon those who reject Him.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem?

Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem marks the beginning of the events leading up to His crucifixion and resurrection. It also serves to emphasize His identity and mission as the Messiah and the Son of God (Mark 11:1-11).

Why does Jesus curse the fig tree?

Jesus curses the fig tree as a metaphor for the judgment of Israel, highlighting the importance of faith and obedience. The event also serves to emphasize Jesus' power and authority over nature (Mark 11:20-24).

What is the importance of faith and prayer in this chapter?

Faith and prayer are central themes in Mark 11, as Jesus teaches His disciples about the importance of trust in God and the power of prayer. The chapter serves to remind believers of the need to trust in God's power and goodness, even in the face of challenges and uncertainty (Mark 11:22-26).

Top Cross References

ReferenceConnection
1 Mark 11:1 → Zechariah 9:9 The triumphal entry into Jerusalem is prophesied in Zechariah 9:9, highlighting Jesus' identity and mission as the Messiah and the Son of God.
2 Mark 11:12 → Isaiah 56:7 Jesus quotes from Isaiah 56:7, emphasizing the importance of purity and holiness in worship. This reference serves to highlight the continuity between the Old and New Testaments.
3 Mark 11:20 → Matthew 21:19 The cursing of the fig tree is also recorded in Matthew 21:19, highlighting the importance of faith and obedience. This event serves to emphasize Jesus' power and authority over nature.
4 Mark 11:22 → Hebrews 11:6 The importance of faith is emphasized in Hebrews 11:6, highlighting its role in pleasing God and overcoming doubt and unbelief. This reference serves to remind believers of the need to trust in God's power and goodness.
5 Mark 11:24 → 1 John 5:14 The power of prayer is emphasized in Mark 11:24, highlighting its importance in building a relationship with God and overcoming challenges. This verse serves to remind believers of the need to trust in God's power and goodness, and to seek His guidance and wisdom through prayer.
6 Mark 11:27 → Matthew 21:23 The question of Jesus' authority is also recorded in Matthew 21:23, highlighting the tension between Jesus and the religious leaders. This event serves to emphasize the importance of obedience and repentance.
7 Mark 11:28 → Luke 20:2 The parable of the wicked tenants is also recorded in Luke 20:2, emphasizing the importance of obedience and repentance. This reference serves to remind believers of the need to trust in God's mercy and forgiveness, and to seek His guidance and wisdom in our lives.
8 Mark 11:33 → John 1:11 The rejection of Jesus by the religious leaders is also recorded in John 1:11, highlighting the importance of faith and obedience. This reference serves to remind believers of the need to trust in Jesus' authority and to seek His guidance and wisdom in our lives.

Sermons on Mark 11

SermonDescription
Aimee Semple McPherson Power of Faith by Aimee Semple McPherson In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power of faith in God to overcome obstacles and perform miracles. He shares examples from the Bible, such as the story of Shadrach, Mesh
Kathryn Kuhlman Mental Attitude by Kathryn Kuhlman In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of one's attitude in shaping their life. He quotes Proverbs 23:7, which states that as a person thinks in their heart, so the
Jim Cymbala The Aroma of Prayer by Jim Cymbala In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of prayer and its transformative power in people's lives. He shares his personal journey of learning about prayer and witnessi
David Wilkerson A Call to Faith by David Wilkerson In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the importance of faith and the need to challenge, commit, and obligate oneself to God. He references the story of Joshua in the Bible, wher
Tim Keller And Kissed Him by Tim Keller In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of forgiveness in overcoming past hurts and moving towards a better future. They describe forgiveness as turning off the pain
David Wilkerson Claiming the Power That Is in Christ by David Wilkerson In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power and authority that believers have in Christ. He encourages the congregation to claim this power and not be hindered by the forces
Francis Chan Prayer as a Way of Walking in Love: A Personal Journey by Francis Chan Francis Chan emphasizes the transformative power of prayer as a means of walking in love, sharing his personal journey of experiencing God's love through answered prayers. He recou
Kathryn Kuhlman In Tribute to Kathryn Kuhlman - Part 2 by Kathryn Kuhlman In this video, a woman from Milton, Massachusetts shares her testimony of experiencing a miraculous healing. She had been in pain for many years but during a church service, she fe
Roy Hession Forgiving and Being Forgiven by Roy Hession In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of a troubled church and a man who caused trouble within it. The speaker emphasizes the importance of forgiveness as a God-
Art Katz K-037 He That Comes in the Name of the Lord by Art Katz In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the triumphant entry of Jesus into his kingdom, as described in the Gospels. He emphasizes the importance of words and the need for them to

Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Mark 11

Mark 11 is a chapter of great significance, as it sets the stage for the events leading up to Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection. Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem is a declaration of His identity and mission as the Messiah and the Son of God. The cleansing of the temple serves to emphasize the importance of purity and holiness in worship, while the cursing of the fig tree highlights the judgment that will come upon those who reject Him. The chapter also emphasizes the importance of faith and prayer, as Jesus teaches His disciples about the power of trust in God and the importance of seeking His guidance and wisdom through prayer. As we reflect on this chapter, we are reminded of the need to trust in God's power and goodness, even in the face of challenges and uncertainty, and to seek His guidance and wisdom in our lives. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →

What Do You Notice?

The Contrast Between Adoration and Hostility

The chapter begins with the crowds hailing Jesus as the Messiah, but soon turns to the hostility of the religious leaders. This contrast highlights the divided response to Jesus' message and ministry.

The Use of Nature Imagery

The chapter includes several references to nature, including the withered fig tree and the mountain that can be moved through faith. This imagery serves to emphasize Jesus' power and authority over creation.

The Emphasis on Faith and Prayer

Jesus' teachings on faith and prayer are central to this chapter, highlighting their importance in the Christian life. The emphasis on faith and prayer serves to remind believers of their dependence on God and the need for a personal relationship with Him.

Everything we make is available for free because of a generous community of supporters.

Donate