Mark 9:31 – “Because he was teaching his disciples. He said to them, ‘The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men. They will kill him, and after three days he will rise.'”
Extended Explanation
In Mark 9:31, Jesus teaches His disciples about His upcoming suffering, death, and resurrection. This is the second time in Mark’s Gospel that Jesus predicts His death (the first is in Mark 8:31). He refers to Himself as the “Son of Man,” a title that highlights both His humanity and His role as the Messiah. Jesus explains that He will be “delivered into the hands of men,” implying betrayal, and that He will be killed but will rise again after three days.
This teaching is central to Jesus’ mission. His death on the cross is not a tragic accident but part of God’s plan to redeem humanity. The disciples, however, struggle to understand this truth. They likely expected the Messiah to bring political freedom and power, not to suffer and die. Jesus’ teaching here prepares them for the reality that His mission involves sacrifice and suffering before ultimate victory.
Historical Context
In first-century Jewish culture, many people believed that the Messiah would be a powerful political leader who would overthrow the Roman occupation and restore Israel’s independence. The idea of a suffering and dying Messiah was difficult for them to accept because it didn’t fit their expectations. Even Jesus’ closest followers had trouble understanding how His death could be part of God’s plan.
The term “Son of Man” comes from Daniel 7:13-14, where it is used to describe a divine figure who is given authority over all nations. By using this title, Jesus connects Himself to the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, but He also redefines what it means to be the Messiah. Instead of conquering through military power, He will conquer sin and death through His sacrifice.
Theological Implications
This verse reveals several important theological truths:
- Jesus’ Death Is Central to God’s Plan of Salvation: Jesus clearly states that His death is necessary. He is not a victim of circumstance—He willingly submits to God’s plan to redeem humanity through His sacrifice (John 10:18).
- Resurrection Brings Hope and Victory: Jesus doesn’t just predict His death—He also predicts His resurrection. This shows that death is not the end of the story. Through His resurrection, Jesus will defeat death and offer eternal life to all who believe in Him.
- God’s Sovereignty Over Human Actions: The phrase “delivered into the hands of men” implies betrayal (which we later see fulfilled by Judas Iscariot). Yet even this betrayal is under God’s control. Human actions do not derail God’s plan—they fulfill it.
Literary Analysis
Mark’s Gospel often emphasizes Jesus’ role as a teacher, and this verse highlights that aspect of His ministry. The phrase “because he was teaching his disciples” signals that Jesus is intentionally preparing them for what is about to happen. The disciples’ confusion and misunderstanding are a recurring theme in Mark, and this passage sets the stage for their eventual growth in understanding after Jesus’ resurrection.
The structure of Jesus’ statement is important. He first describes His betrayal and death, then immediately follows it with the promise of resurrection. This pattern reinforces the biblical theme that suffering is often followed by victory. Jesus is teaching His disciples that even though the events to come will seem devastating, they are part of a greater plan that leads to redemption and triumph.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Mark 8:31 – The first prediction of Jesus’ death and resurrection.
- Mark 10:33-34 – The third prediction of Jesus’ suffering, death, and resurrection.
- Isaiah 53:3-5 – The prophecy of the suffering servant who is pierced for our transgressions.
- John 10:17-18 – Jesus explains that He lays down His life willingly and has the authority to take it up again.
- 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 – Paul emphasizes that Jesus’ death and resurrection are central to the gospel message.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s believers, Mark 9:31 is a reminder that the Christian faith is centered on Jesus’ death and resurrection. His sacrifice on the cross wasn’t just a historical event—it’s the foundation of our salvation. This verse challenges us to reflect on the cost of our redemption and the hope we have because of Jesus’ victory over death.
It also reminds us that God’s plan often involves challenges and suffering, but those moments are not the end of the story. Just as Jesus’ death led to His resurrection, our struggles can lead to growth, hope, and renewal when we trust in God’s plan.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is shown in His willingness to send His Son to die for humanity’s sins. The fact that Jesus knew what was coming and still chose to follow through demonstrates His deep love for us. His death was not forced—it was a choice made out of love to provide a way for humanity to be reconciled to God (Romans 5:8).
God’s love is also evident in the promise of resurrection. He doesn’t leave us in our brokenness or suffering. Through Jesus’ resurrection, God offers new life, hope, and the assurance that death does not have the final word.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse directly highlights Jesus’ mission as the one who would be betrayed, killed, and raised to life. His reference to being “delivered into the hands of men” foreshadows the events leading to His crucifixion, including Judas’ betrayal and the trials before the religious leaders and Roman authorities. But Jesus doesn’t just predict His death—He declares His victory through the resurrection.
Jesus’ resurrection is central to the Christian faith because it proves His power over sin and death. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 15:17, “If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.” By rising from the dead, Jesus secures eternal life for all who believe in Him (John 11:25-26).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why do you think Jesus repeatedly taught His disciples about His death and resurrection, even though they struggled to understand it?
- How does this verse challenge your understanding of what it means to follow Jesus?
- What does the connection between suffering and resurrection in this passage teach you about facing challenges in your own life?
- How does the fact that Jesus willingly submitted to God’s plan impact the way you view His sacrifice?
- How can you live with the hope of resurrection in your daily life?
Mark 9:31 reminds us that Jesus’ death and resurrection are at the heart of the gospel. His willingness to suffer and die for us reveals the depth of God’s love, and His victory over death offers us the hope of eternal life. As we reflect on this verse, we are encouraged to trust in God’s plan, even when it involves challenges, knowing that resurrection and new life are always on the other side of suffering.