What does Mark 14:17 mean?

Explanation

The verse in question, Mark 14:17, reads: "And in the evening he cometh with the twelve." This verse describes an event in the life of Jesus Christ when he arrives in the evening with his twelve disciples.

The literal meaning is straightforward: it portrays Jesus arriving with His close followers at a particular location in the evening.

However, the deeper significance is that this event precedes the Last Supper, where Jesus shares a final meal with His disciples before His crucifixion.

This moment of fellowship marks a pivotal point in the New Testament narrative, as it sets the stage for the institution of the Eucharist and the unfolding of the Passion.

Historical Context

This verse is set during the time of Jesus' ministry in the first century Judea, under the occupation of the Roman Empire.

The religious and social setting was steeped in Jewish customs and the anticipation of a Messiah.

The Last Supper was also a Passover meal, a Jewish feast commemorating the deliverance of Israelites from Egyptian slavery.

This historical context is critical to understanding the significance of Jesus' actions and words during the meal, especially as they relate to the themes of sacrifice and deliverance.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse introduces one of the most profound narratives in Christian theology, the Last Supper and the events leading to the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus.

It underscores the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the establishment of a new covenant through Jesus' sacrifice.

Different theological viewpoints may emphasize the role of this event in revealing Jesus as the Lamb of God, the significance of the Eucharist, and the foundation of Christian community and fellowship.

Practical Applications

The teachings from this verse can encourage believers to value fellowship and to remember the significance of Jesus' sacrifice.

Practically, this can manifest in the Christian ritual of Holy Communion, where believers gather to remember and proclaim Jesus’ death and resurrection.

It also serves as a reminder of the importance of being in a community, supporting one another, and preparing for significant moments of spiritual reflection.

Cross-References

• Matthew 26:20 - "Now when the even was come, he sat down with the twelve."
• Luke 22:14 - "And when the hour was come, he sat down, and the twelve apostles with him."
• John 13:1 - "Now before the feast of the passover, when Jesus knew that his hour was come that he should depart out of this world unto the Father, having loved his own which were in the world, he loved them unto the end."
• 1 Corinthians 11:23-25 - "For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread: And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me.

After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me."

Language Study

The key terms in the original Greek text of this verse are:

• Ὀψίας (opsias): meaning "evening" or "at the time of evening."
• ἔρχεται (erchetai): a form of the verb "to come" or "arrive."
• μετὰ (meta): meaning "with."
• δώδεκα (dōdeka): the number "twelve," referring to the twelve disciples.

Understanding these words in their original context reinforces the literal interpretation of the verse and its connection to the Jewish understanding of the day beginning in the evening.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparing this verse to other ancient religious texts and cultural practices, it is interesting to note that communal meals held significant meaning in many ancient cultures, often associated with covenant-making and religious rituals.

The Passover meal that Jesus shared with His disciples was a distinct Jewish tradition, but the idea of a shared meal as a sacred space can be found in other ancient cultures and religious traditions as well.

Scientific Perspectives

While this verse does not directly intersect with scientific understandings, the mention of "evening" relates to the natural cycle of day and night, which is shaped by the Earth's rotation and its position relative to the Sun.

Modern science provides a deeper understanding of these natural phenomena that frame the timing of the events described in the verse.

Commentaries

Various biblical commentaries interpret Mark 14:17 as significant for several reasons.

Some emphasize the connection between Jesus' last meal with His disciples and the Jewish Passover, suggesting that Jesus is positioning himself as the true Paschal Lamb. Others focus on the intimacy of this gathering and Jesus's role as a teacher who imparts final lessons to His followers.

Many commentaries also explore the symbolic importance of the number twelve, relating it to the twelve tribes of Israel and signifying the foundation of a new Israel in the community of Jesus' followers.