And they were astonished out of measure, saying among themselves, Who then can be saved?

MARK 10:26KJV
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Mark 10:26 (KJV)

What does Mark 10:26 mean?

Mark 10:26 describes the disciples reacting with extreme shock and confusion, asking each other, “Who then can be saved?” after hearing Jesus’ teaching about how hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God. Their question shows their deep concern about whether anyone at all can be saved.

In this scene, Jesus has just told His disciples that it is very difficult for a rich person to enter God’s kingdom, which overturns their common assumptions about wealth and blessing. The disciples, who are listening directly to Jesus, are so amazed that they question among themselves if salvation is possible for anyone. This moment highlights their struggle to understand Jesus’ teaching about what truly makes someone right with God.

The Greek behind Mark 10:26

  • ἐξεπλήσσοντο (ex-eplēssonto, “astonished”): This word means to be utterly amazed or overwhelmed, not just surprised. The disciples’ reaction is intense, showing how unexpected and challenging Jesus’ teaching was for them.
  • πρὸς ἑαυτούς (pros heautous, “among themselves”): This phrase means the disciples were talking privately with each other, not openly questioning Jesus, which suggests their confusion and uncertainty.
  • δύναται (dunatai, “can”): This word carries the sense of having the power or ability. The disciples are not just asking if it is allowed, but if it is even possible for anyone to be saved.

Why Mark 10:26 matters

  • Mark 10:26 shows that Jesus’ teaching about wealth and salvation was radically different from what people in that time expected, challenging the idea that wealth was a sign of God’s favor.
  • The verse highlights the disciples’ honest confusion and their willingness to question what they thought they knew, which helps readers see that struggling to understand spiritual truths is a normal part of following Jesus.
  • This moment sets up Jesus’ next statement in Mark 10:27, where He explains that what is impossible for people is possible with God, emphasizing God’s power and grace in salvation.

Where else these words appear

“measure” Greek G4057 · used in 3 verses

  • Matthew 27:23 And the governor said, Why, what evil hath he done? But they cried out the more, saying, Let him be crucified.
  • Acts 26:11 And I punished them oft in every synagogue, and compelled them to blaspheme; and being exceedingly mad against them, I persecuted them even unto strange cities.

“astonished” Greek G1605 · used in 13 verses

  • Matthew 7:28 And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine:
  • Mark 1:22 And they were astonished at his doctrine: for he taught them as one that had authority, and not as the scribes.
  • Luke 2:48 And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing.

“saved” Greek G4982 · used in 103 verses

  • Matthew 1:21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.
  • Luke 13:23 Then said one unto him, Lord, are there few that be saved? And he said unto them,
  • Romans 11:14 If by any means I may provoke to emulation them which are my flesh, and might save some of them.