This was the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes?

MARK 12:11KJV
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Mark 12:11 (KJV)

What does Mark 12:11 mean?

Mark 12:11 says that what has happened is the work of the Lord, and it is something truly astonishing or wonderful to those who see it. The verse points out that God is behind this event, and people recognize its remarkable nature.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking to a crowd in Jerusalem, quoting from Psalm 118. He has just told a parable about rejected tenants, and now He refers to a "stone" rejected by builders that becomes the cornerstone. By saying this is the Lord’s doing and marvelous in our eyes, Jesus highlights that God’s actions can be surprising and far beyond human expectations.

The Greek behind Mark 12:11

  • "θαυμαστή" (thaumastē, marvellous): This word means something astonishing, wonderful, or extraordinary. It emphasizes that what God has done is not just good, but truly awe-inspiring and unexpected.
  • "παρὰ κυρίου" (para kyriou, Lord's doing): The phrase means "from the Lord," stressing that this event did not happen by chance or human effort, but by God’s direct involvement.
  • "ἐν ὀφθαλμοῖς ἡμῶν" (en ophthalmois hēmōn, in our eyes): This phrase means "in our sight" or "as we see it," showing that the marvel is something people can recognize and witness themselves.

Why Mark 12:11 matters

  • Mark 12:11 clarifies that even when people reject or overlook something, God can make it central and wonderful, challenging human expectations.
  • The verse connects Jesus’ teaching to Old Testament prophecy, helping listeners see that what is happening in Jesus’ ministry is part of God’s long-planned work.
  • By calling the event "marvellous," Mark 12:11 encourages readers to look for God’s surprising actions, even in situations that seem unlikely or disappointing.

Where else these words appear

“marvellous” Greek G2298 · used in 7 verses

  • Matthew 21:42 Jesus saith unto them, Did ye never read in the scriptures, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner: this is the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes?
  • 2 Corinthians 11:14 And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.
  • Revelation 15:1 And I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvellous, seven angels having the seven last plagues; for in them is filled up the wrath of God.

“eyes” Greek G3788 · used in 86 verses

  • Matthew 5:29 And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.
  • Luke 10:23 And he turned him unto his disciples, and said privately, Blessed are the eyes which see the things that ye see:
  • Acts 26:18 To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.