What does Mark 13:16 mean?

Explanation

The verse Mark 13:16, "And let him that is in the field not turn back again for to take up his garment." is part of a larger section in the Gospel of Mark that deals with the signs that would precede the end of the age and the coming of the Son of Man, also known as the eschaton.

Here, the instruction given is metaphorical for urging readiness and swift response in the face of impending catastrophe or divine intervention.

The urgency is such that one should not even return home to collect personal belongings, symbolized by the mention of a "garment." The underlying message is that spiritual preparedness takes precedence over material concerns when faced with a moment of divine significance.

Historical Context

The Gospel of Mark is believed to have been written between AD 66 and 70, around the time of the Jewish-Roman War and the subsequent destruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem.

These events would have been fresh in the minds of the audience.

The apocalyptic discourse in Mark 13 reflects the tensions and expectations of an imminent crisis among early Christians.

By reading this verse in its historical context, we can understand it as part of an encouragement to Christ's followers to remain steadfast and vigilant in the face of political upheaval and persecution.

Theological Insights

Different Christian denominations interpret this verse from Mark 13:16 in varied ways:

• Preterists believe that this verse was fulfilled in the events surrounding the destruction of the Temple in AD 70 and that it was a literal warning to the Jesus' followers to flee Jerusalem.
• Futurists view the verse as a prophecy yet to be fulfilled, pertaining to the end times which will precede the second coming of Christ.
• Spiritual or Allegorical Interpretation: Some theologians regard the verse as a call to prioritize one's spiritual life over the material, emphasizing the need for spiritual vigilance.
• Historicist View: This approach ties the verse to specific historical events and sees it as a general principle that has been applicable through various crises faced by the Church over the centuries.

Practical Applications

The practical application of Mark 13:16 involves several key life lessons:

• Readiness: One should always be prepared for unexpected life changes and spiritual challenges.
• Prioritization: The verse encourages prioritizing spiritual commitments over material possessions.
• Detachment: It can be seen as a call to cultivate detachment from worldly attachments.
• Urgency: The sense of urgency in this cautionary instruction can also be applied to making the most of time and opportunities in one’s life.

Cross-References

• Luke 17:31 - "In that day, he which shall be upon the housetop, and his stuff in the house, let him not come down to take it away: and he that is in the field, let him likewise not return back."
• Matthew 24:18 - "And let him which is in the field return back to take his clothes."
• Genesis 19:17, 26 - The story of Lot’s wife who looked back and turned into a pillar of salt serves as an Old Testament parallel warning against turning back in times of divine judgment.

Language Study

The original Greek text for this verse uses key phrases that carry deep significance:

• ἐν τῷ ἀγρῷ (en tō agrō): Translated "in the field," this phrase suggests being engaged in daily work or routine.
• μὴ ἐπιστρεψάτω (mē epistrepsatō): Translated "not turn back," it indicates a forceful command to refrain from a specific action.
• στολὴν αὐτοῦ (stolēn autou): Translated "his garment," conveys the idea of a basic necessity or perhaps a valued possession.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient times, grabbing one's cloak or garment when fleeing was a practical action, as clothing was valuable and necessary for protection against the elements.

In comparing to other ancient stories and religious texts, the idea of fleeing from catastrophe without looking back is somewhat universal, indicating the seriousness of the warning and the immediacy of the threat.

Scientific Perspectives

While this verse doesn't directly lend itself to scientific analysis, modern psychology may shed light on human behavior in times of crisis.

The advice against turning back can be related to the psychological tendency to cling to possessions or the past, even in the face of danger.

In this context, the verse could be seen as an ancient acknowledgment of this human trait and an exhortation to overcome it.

Commentaries

Commentaries on Mark 13:16 offer diverse perspectives:

• John Calvin: He viewed this instruction as showing the urgent necessity of flight, leaving no room for delay.
• Matthew Henry: Henry's commentary emphasizes the great tribulation that would come upon the church and the need for readiness.
• William Barclay: He points out the harsh realism of the advice; in a time of such crisis, there would be no room for normal human emotions or actions, like turning back for a cloak.

Each commentator sees in this verse a distinct emphasis, reflective of the historical, theological, or moral lessons that they believe Mark 13:16 conveys to its readers.