Mark 5:36 As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, he said to the ruler of the synagogue, Be not afraid, only believe. This exhortation has two sides — the negative and the positive. I. IN ITS NEGATIVE ASPECT. (1) it does not apply to the reckless and the ungodly, for there is never a period of their lives in which they ought not to fear. They have to fear — life and death, present, past, and future, earth and heaven, time and eternity. The very breath they breathe may be charged with its mission of judicial punishment; (2) but to those who are striving to live in accordance with the requirements of the Divine will. When the soul has found her foundation to be the Rock of Ages, and her rest in God; when the earnest of the Divine Spirit is received and felt as a quickening power, then there is no need for alarm. II. IN ITS POSITIVE ASPECT. (1) it indicates a means by which we may obtain release from causes which justify fear. Christ is the central object of trust. He is able to save, and He is willing. Here is a strong and lasting foundation; (2) it is just the message needed by those who are turning away from the spirit of the world, who feel it cannot meet their wants when the heart stoops with grief, and when its fondest ties are being broken. It may be, that when they turn to God, great difficulties present themselves. Old habits are strong, the tendencies of the passions are earthward, and religion seems gloomy and unattractive. Besides, a deep sense of guilt and shame oppress the soul. Thus the trial of faith is severe. Still the remedy is simple. Trust wholly in God, and submit yourself to Him. "Only believe" is to acknowledge God's power and one's own helplessness. It is a thing of instinct and of reason. (W. D. Horwood.) Parallel Verses KJV: As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, he saith unto the ruler of the synagogue, Be not afraid, only believe. |
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