Definition: And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear you, when ye depart thence, shake off the dust under your feet for a testimony against them. Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important passage from the Bible – Mark 6:11. It's a really powerful message about God’s judgment and the importance of following His word. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is essentially saying that if you don’t accept God’s invitation to follow Him, to believe in Him, and to live according to His will, then those who don't do so will face a very terrible consequence. It’s a warning about the consequences of rejecting God. Let's unpack it piece by piece: "Mark 6:11..." : This is the beginning of a story – Jesus is sending out his disciples to find and convert a city called Sodom and Gomorrah, which were destroyed in ancient times. "...and whosoever shall not receive you..." : This means anyone who doesn't accept Jesus as their King and follow His teachings will be left behind. It’s about rejection – not just physical absence, but a rejection of God’s offer of salvation. "...nor hear you..." : This is the crucial part. Jesus isn’t just saying they will be rejected; he's saying that we (those who don’t listen to Him) will also be rejected. It emphasizes the importance of listening to God’s message, not just hearing it. "...when ye depart thence..." : This means "when you leave that place." It’s about leaving this area – this city – immediately . "...shake off the dust under your feet for a testimony against them." : This is the shocking part! Jesus tells his disciples to remove themselves from this city. He says they will be "shaken off" – meaning cast out – and left with a message that will be heard by those who remain. “Shake off the dust” : This imagery suggests a harsh, unpleasant experience. It implies being driven away, possibly with difficulty or even suffering. “For a testimony against them” : This is incredibly important. It means that God’s people , those who truly follow Him, will be heard and known. God will speak favorably about them in the end. The Significance & What it Means: Judgment: The verse points to a future judgment. This isn't just about a punishment for Sodom and Gomorrah; it’s about the consequences of rejecting God. God’s Sovereignty: It highlights that God is in control, and He has the power to judge those who don’t respond to His call. He doesn’t tolerate rejection. Importance of Faith & Obedience: The verse emphasizes the importance of faith (belief) and obedience to God's commands – which are key to being saved. In short, this passage warns against rejecting God and encourages us to live a life that honors Him. It’s a powerful reminder that our choices have consequences, and we must be faithful to God. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these points in more detail? Provide context about the story of Sodom and Gomorrah? Discuss what this verse might mean for your life today?