Mark 6:11
Arabic 2016 (الكِتاب المُقَدَّس: التَّرْجَمَةُ العَرَبِيَّةُ المُبَسَّطَةُ)
وَإنْ جِئْتُمْ إلَى مَدِينَةٍ وَلَمْ تُرَحِّبْ بِكُمْ، وَلَمْ تَسْمَعْ رِسَالَتَكُمْ، فَانفُضُوا، عِنْدَ خُرُوجِكُمْ، الغُبَارَ الَّذِي عَلِقَ بِأقْدَامِكُمْ كَشَهَادَةٍ ضِدَّ تِلْكَ المَدِينَةِ.»
What Does This Mean?
This verse tells the disciples that if they are not welcomed or listened to in a city, they should leave and shake off the dust from their feet as a sign of rejection. Jesus says it will be worse for those who reject them than for Sodom and Gomorrah on Judgment Day.
Explained for Children
Imagine you're trying to share your favorite toy with someone, but they ignore you. If that happens, put down the toy and walk away, like shaking dust off your shoes. Jesus says it's better if people accept help than reject it.
Historical Background
The Gospel of Mark was written by John Mark around AD 65-70 to a predominantly Gentile audience. This instruction from Jesus reflects the challenges early Christian missionaries faced in spreading their message and dealing with rejection.
Living It Out Today
If you share your beliefs or help someone, but they reject it, don't force it; instead, respectfully move on. It's important not to let rejection discourage you, as sometimes people need time or different circumstances to accept what is being offered.
Topics
judgmentrejectionmissionary workrepentancefaithfulnesstestimony
Related Verses
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Jesus tell the disciples to shake off the dust?
Shaking off the dust was symbolic, showing that the city rejected them. It was a way to declare that they would not be responsible for the rejection of God's message.
Does this mean Sodom and Gomorrah will have an easier time in judgment?
Yes, according to Jesus, those who reject God’s messengers face worse consequences than cities like Sodom and Gomorrah did. It underscores the gravity of rejecting divine truth.
How should Christians today apply this verse?
Christians can use this as guidance for missionary work or sharing faith, knowing that respect is important but so is recognizing when someone is not open to receiving help or message.
Are there examples in the Bible of this practice being followed?
Yes, Luke 9:5 mentions Jesus instructing the disciples similarly during their mission journey. This shows that the practice was indeed used by early Christians as a way to respond to rejection.