Mark 4:17
New International Version
But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away.

New Living Translation
But since they don’t have deep roots, they don’t last long. They fall away as soon as they have problems or are persecuted for believing God’s word.

English Standard Version
And they have no root in themselves, but endure for a while; then, when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately they fall away.

Berean Standard Bible
But they themselves have no root, and they remain for only a season. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away.

Berean Literal Bible
and they have no root in themselves, but are temporary. Then tribulation or persecution having arisen on account of the word, immediately they fall away.

King James Bible
And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word's sake, immediately they are offended.

New King James Version
and they have no root in themselves, and so endure only for a time. Afterward, when tribulation or persecution arises for the word’s sake, immediately they stumble.

New American Standard Bible
and yet they have no firm root in themselves, but are only temporary; then, when affliction or persecution occurs because of the word, immediately they fall away.

NASB 1995
and they have no firm root in themselves, but are only temporary; then, when affliction or persecution arises because of the word, immediately they fall away.

NASB 1977
and they have no firm root in themselves, but are only temporary; then, when affliction or persecution arises because of the word, immediately they fall away.

Legacy Standard Bible
and they have no root in themselves, but are only temporary; then, when affliction or persecution arises because of the word, immediately they fall away.

Amplified Bible
and they have no real root in themselves, so they endure only for a little while; then, when trouble or persecution comes because of the word, immediately they [are offended and displeased at being associated with Me and] stumble and fall away.

Christian Standard Bible
But they have no root; they are short-lived. When distress or persecution comes because of the word, they immediately fall away.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
But they have no root in themselves; they are short-lived. When pressure or persecution comes because of the word, they immediately stumble.

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

Contemporary English Version
But they don't have roots, and they don't last very long. As soon as life gets hard or the message gets them in trouble, they give up.

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

GOD'S WORD® Translation
But they don't develop any roots. They last for a short time. When suffering or persecution comes along because of the word, they immediately fall [from faith].

Good News Translation
But it does not sink deep into them, and they don't last long. So when trouble or persecution comes because of the message, they give up at once.

International Standard Version
but since they don't have any roots, they last for only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes along because of the word, they immediately fall away.

Majority Standard Bible
But they themselves have no root, and they remain for only a season. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away.

NET Bible
But they have no root in themselves and do not endure. Then, when trouble or persecution comes because of the word, immediately they fall away.

New Heart English Bible
And they have no root in themselves, but are short-lived. Then, when oppression or persecution arises because of the word, immediately they stumble.

Webster's Bible Translation
And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word's sake, immediately they relapse.

Weymouth New Testament
but they have no root within them. They last for a time; then, when suffering or persecution comes because of the Message, they are immediately overthrown.

World English Bible
They have no root in themselves, but are short-lived. When oppression or persecution arises because of the word, immediately they stumble.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
and have no root in themselves, but are temporary; afterward tribulation or persecution having come because of the word, immediately they are stumbled.

Berean Literal Bible
and they have no root in themselves, but are temporary. Then tribulation or persecution having arisen on account of the word, immediately they fall away.

Young's Literal Translation
and have not root in themselves, but are temporary; afterward tribulation or persecution having come because of the word, immediately they are stumbled.

Smith's Literal Translation
And have no root in themselves, but are temporary; then pressure having been or expulsion for the word, quickly are they scandalized.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
And they have no root in themselves, but are only for a time: and then when tribulation and persecution ariseth for the word they are presently scandalized.

Catholic Public Domain Version
But they have no root in themselves, and so they are for a limited time. And when next tribulation and persecution arises because of the word, they quickly fall away.

New American Bible
But they have no root; they last only for a time. Then when tribulation or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away.

New Revised Standard Version
But they have no root, and endure only for a while; then, when trouble or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately they fall away.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
And they have no root in themselves, but last for a while; and when trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they soon stumble.

Aramaic Bible in Plain English
“And they have no root in themselves, but they abide for a while, and when there is distress or persecution because of the word, they are soon subverted.”
NT Translations
Anderson New Testament
and they have no root in themselves, but endure for a time; afterward, when affliction or persecution arises on account of the word, they immediately take offense.

Godbey New Testament
And they have no root in themselves, but are temporary; then tribulation or persecution arising on account of the word, they are immediately offended:

Haweis New Testament
and have no root in themselves, but are temporary professors: afterwards, when tribulation cometh or persecution for the word?s sake, immediately they are offended.

Mace New Testament
but having no root at the bottom, they are only occasional professors, for if they meet with any trouble or persecution upon account of the word, immediately they revolt.

Weymouth New Testament
but they have no root within them. They last for a time; then, when suffering or persecution comes because of the Message, they are immediately overthrown.

Worrell New Testament
and they have no root in themselves, but are only temporary; then, when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, straightway they stumble.

Worsley New Testament
immediately receive it with joy, but have no root in themselves, and so continue but for a short season: and then, when affliction cometh, or persecution on account of the word, they are as soon offended.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
The Parable of the Sower Explained
16Some are like the seeds sown on rocky ground. They hear the word and at once receive it with joy. 17But they themselves have no root, and they remain for only a season. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. 18Others are like the seeds sown among the thorns. They hear the word,…

Cross References
Matthew 13:21
But since he has no root, he remains for only a season. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, he quickly falls away.

Luke 8:13
The seeds on rocky ground are those who hear the word and receive it with joy, but they have no root. They believe for a season, but in the time of testing, they fall away.

John 15:6
If anyone does not remain in Me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers. Such branches are gathered up, thrown into the fire, and burned.

2 Timothy 3:12
Indeed, all who desire to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,

James 1:11
For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its flower falls and its beauty is lost. So too, the rich man will fade away in the midst of his pursuits.

Hebrews 3:12-14
See to it, brothers, that none of you has a wicked heart of unbelief that turns away from the living God. / But exhort one another daily, as long as it is called today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness. / We have come to share in Christ if we hold firmly to the end the assurance we had at first.

1 Peter 4:12-13
Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial that has come upon you, as though something strange were happening to you. / But rejoice that you share in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed at the revelation of His glory.

1 John 2:19
They went out from us, but they did not belong to us. For if they had belonged to us, they would have remained with us. But their departure made it clear that none of them belonged to us.

Romans 5:3-4
Not only that, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; / perseverance, character; and character, hope.

2 Corinthians 4:17
For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory that is far beyond comparison.

Acts 14:22
strengthening the souls of the disciples and encouraging them to continue in the faith. “We must endure many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said.

Colossians 1:23
if indeed you continue in your faith, established and firm, not moved from the hope of the gospel you heard, which has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven, and of which I, Paul, have become a servant.

Ephesians 3:13
So I ask you not to be discouraged because of my sufferings for you, which are your glory.

1 Thessalonians 3:3-4
so that none of you would be shaken by these trials. For you know that we are destined for this. / Indeed, when we were with you, we kept warning you that we would suffer persecution; and as you know, it has come to pass.

Isaiah 40:8
The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever.”


Treasury of Scripture

And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution rises for the word's sake, immediately they are offended.

have.

Mark 4:5,6
And some fell on stony ground, where it had not much earth; and immediately it sprang up, because it had no depth of earth: …

Job 19:28
But ye should say, Why persecute we him, seeing the root of the matter is found in me?

Job 27:8-10
For what is the hope of the hypocrite, though he hath gained, when God taketh away his soul? …

when.

Matthew 11:6
And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me.

Matthew 13:21
Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.

Matthew 24:9,10
Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake…

Jump to Previous
Account Affliction Afterward Arises Ariseth Arising Endure Fall Firm Full Immediately Last Message Offended Oppression Overthrown Pain Persecution Quickly Root Sake Short Short-Lived Straightway Stumble Suffering Temporary Themselves Time Tribulation Trouble Within Word Word's
Jump to Next
Account Affliction Afterward Arises Ariseth Arising Endure Fall Firm Full Immediately Last Message Offended Oppression Overthrown Pain Persecution Quickly Root Sake Short Short-Lived Straightway Stumble Suffering Temporary Themselves Time Tribulation Trouble Within Word Word's
Mark 4
1. The parable of the sower,
14. and the meaning thereof.
21. We must communicate the light of our knowledge to others.
26. The parable of the seed growing secretly;
30. and of the mustard seed.
35. Jesus stills the storm on the sea.














But they themselves have no root
The phrase "have no root" is crucial in understanding the spiritual condition of those described in this verse. The Greek word for "root" is "ῥίζα" (rhiza), which signifies a foundation or source of life. In the context of agriculture, a plant without a root cannot sustain itself, drawing a parallel to a believer who lacks a deep, personal connection with Christ. This lack of root implies a superficial faith that does not delve into the depths of God's Word or establish a firm foundation in Christ. Historically, the imagery of roots is used throughout Scripture to denote stability and nourishment (e.g., Psalm 1:3). Without this root, the individual is vulnerable to external pressures and unable to withstand spiritual challenges.

and they remain for only a season
The phrase "for only a season" suggests temporariness and impermanence. The Greek word "πρόσκαιρος" (proskairos) is used here, meaning temporary or for a short time. This indicates that the initial enthusiasm or emotional response to the Gospel is not sustained. In the agricultural context of the parable, a plant that lasts only for a season does not reach maturity or bear fruit. Spiritually, this reflects a faith that does not endure trials or grow into maturity. The historical context of early Christianity, where believers faced persecution, highlights the necessity of a faith that can withstand temporal challenges and remain steadfast.

When trouble or persecution comes
The words "trouble or persecution" refer to external pressures that test the authenticity of one's faith. The Greek word for "trouble" is "θλῖψις" (thlipsis), meaning affliction or distress, while "persecution" is "διωγμός" (diogmos), indicating pursuit or harassment. These terms reflect the reality faced by early Christians who often encountered societal and governmental opposition. Theologically, this phrase underscores the inevitability of trials in the Christian life, as Jesus Himself warned His followers of the cost of discipleship (John 16:33). The historical context of the early church, which endured significant persecution, serves as a backdrop for understanding the resilience required to maintain one's faith.

because of the word
The phrase "because of the word" highlights the reason for the trouble or persecution. The "word" refers to the message of the Gospel, the teachings of Christ, and the truth of Scripture. The Greek term "λόγος" (logos) is used here, which encompasses not only spoken words but also the divine reason and plan of God. This indicates that the trials faced are directly related to one's commitment to living out and proclaiming the Gospel. Historically, the early church's adherence to the teachings of Jesus often put them at odds with prevailing cultural and religious norms, leading to persecution.

they quickly fall away
The phrase "quickly fall away" describes the response of those who lack a deep-rooted faith. The Greek word "σκανδαλίζω" (skandalizo) is used, meaning to stumble or be offended. This suggests a swift abandonment of faith when faced with adversity. Theologically, this highlights the danger of a shallow faith that is not prepared for the inevitable challenges of the Christian walk. The historical context of the early church, where believers were often tested by persecution, serves as a reminder of the need for perseverance and steadfastness in faith. This phrase serves as a cautionary note, urging believers to cultivate a deep, enduring relationship with Christ that can withstand the trials of life.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Greek
But
καὶ (kai)
Conjunction
Strong's 2532: And, even, also, namely.

they themselves have
ἔχουσιν (echousin)
Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural
Strong's 2192: To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold.

no
οὐκ (ouk)
Adverb
Strong's 3756: No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.

root,
ῥίζαν (rhizan)
Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular
Strong's 4491: A root, shoot, source; that which comes from the root, a descendent. Apparently a primary word; a 'root'.

[and]
ἀλλὰ (alla)
Conjunction
Strong's 235: But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.

they remain
εἰσιν (eisin)
Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural
Strong's 1510: I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.

for only a season.
πρόσκαιροί (proskairoi)
Adjective - Nominative Masculine Plural
Strong's 4340: For a season, temporary. From pros and kairos; for the occasion only, i.e. Temporary.

When
εἶτα (eita)
Adverb
Strong's 1534: A particle of succession, then, moreover.

trouble
θλίψεως (thlipseōs)
Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular
Strong's 2347: Persecution, affliction, distress, tribulation. From thlibo; pressure.

or
(ē)
Conjunction
Strong's 2228: Or, than. A primary particle of distinction between two connected terms; disjunctive, or; comparative, than.

persecution
διωγμοῦ (diōgmou)
Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular
Strong's 1375: Chase, pursuit; persecution. From dioko; persecution.

comes
γενομένης (genomenēs)
Verb - Aorist Participle Middle - Genitive Feminine Singular
Strong's 1096: A prolongation and middle voice form of a primary verb; to cause to be, i.e. to become, used with great latitude.

because of
διὰ (dia)
Preposition
Strong's 1223: A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through.

the
τὸν (ton)
Article - Accusative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

word,
λόγον (logon)
Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3056: From lego; something said; by implication, a topic, also reasoning or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, the Divine Expression.

they quickly fall away.
σκανδαλίζονται (skandalizontai)
Verb - Present Indicative Middle or Passive - 3rd Person Plural
Strong's 4624: From skandalon; to entrap, i.e. Trip up (transitively) or entice to sin, apostasy or displeasure).


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