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Mark 4:39

And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.

Mark 4:39 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse comes from the book of Mark in the New Testament and recounts a miraculous event where Jesus calms a storm on the Sea of Galilee. The disciples were in a boat with Jesus when a fierce storm arose, causing them to fear for their lives. In response, Jesus simply spoke to the wind and the sea, commanding them to be still. Instantly, the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. This story is often interpreted as a demonstration of Jesus' power over the forces of nature, highlighting his divine authority and ability to bring peace and order to even the most chaotic situations. The phrase "Peace, be still" is a powerful affirmation of Jesus' ability to bring tranquility and calmness in the midst of life's storms. It serves as a reminder to trust in his power and presence, knowing that he can bring peace to our turbulent circumstances.

Theological Overview

Many theologians interpret the passage where Jesus calms the storm in Mark 4:39 as a demonstration of His divine power over creation. By rebuking the wind and sea, Jesus was asserting His authority over the forces of nature, showing that even the elements themselves must obey His command. The word "rebuked" implies a strong sense of reprimand, suggesting that Jesus's power was not only great but also authoritative. The phrase "Peace, be still" indicates Jesus's ability to bring calm and order to chaos with a simple command. The sudden stillness that follows the rebuke highlights the immediate and complete control that Jesus has over the storm. This miracle serves as a powerful reminder of Jesus's sovereignty and the peace that He can bring to even the most turbulent situations in our lives.

Mark 4:39 in other translations

American Standard Version

And he awoke, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.

World English Bible

He awoke, and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” The wind ceased, and there was a great calm.

Douay-Rheims

And rising up, he rebuked the wind, and said to the sea: Peace, be still. And the wind ceased: and there was made a great calm.

Geneva Bible (1599)

And hee rose vp, and rebuked the winde, and saide vnto the sea, Peace, and be still. So the winde ceased, and it was a great calme.