And forthwith, when they were come out of the synagogue, they entered into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John.

MARK 1:29KJV
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Mark 1:29 (KJV)

What does Mark 1:29 mean?

Mark 1:29 describes how Jesus, after leaving the synagogue, went into the house of Simon (Peter) and Andrew, accompanied by James and John. This verse sets the scene for what happens next, showing that Jesus moved from a public place of worship to a private home with his closest followers.

In this moment, Mark is narrating the actions of Jesus and his first disciples right after a Sabbath synagogue service in Capernaum. The verse highlights the close relationship between Jesus and these four men, and it prepares the reader for the personal events that will unfold in Simon’s household, including the healing of Simon’s mother-in-law in the following verses.

The Greek behind Mark 1:29

  • The word "συναγωγή" (synagōgē, G4864) means "synagogue," which was the Jewish place of assembly and worship. Mark’s mention of leaving the synagogue emphasizes that the events are happening on the Sabbath and that Jesus is moving from a public religious setting to a private home.
  • The word "οἶκος" (oikos, G3614) means "house." This signals a shift from public ministry to a more intimate, personal setting, which is important for understanding the context of the miracle that follows.
  • The phrase "μετὰ Ἰακώβου καὶ Ἰωάννου" (meta Iakōbou kai Iōannou, G3326, G2385, G2491) means "with James and John." Mark is careful to point out that these two brothers are present, highlighting the group of Jesus’ closest disciples.

Why Mark 1:29 matters

  • Mark 1:29 shows that Jesus’ ministry was not limited to public teaching; he was also present in the private lives of his followers, caring for their families and personal needs.
  • By naming Simon, Andrew, James, and John, Mark emphasizes the special relationship and early formation of Jesus’ core group of disciples, which is important for understanding the rest of the Gospel.
  • This verse connects the public authority Jesus showed in the synagogue with his compassionate actions in a home, setting up a pattern seen throughout Mark’s Gospel where Jesus moves between public and private ministry.