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When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/mark/4-17.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/mark/4-17.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/mark/">Mark</a> > <a href="/mark/4.htm">Chapter 4</a> > Verse 17</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad17.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/mark/4-16.htm" title="Mark 4:16">◄</a> Mark 4:17 <a href="/mark/4-18.htm" title="Mark 4:18">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/mark/4.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/mark/4.htm">New International Version</a> But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. <a href="/nlt/mark/4.htm">New Living Translation</a> But since they don’t have deep roots, they don’t last long. They fall away as soon as they have problems or are persecuted for believing God’s word. <a href="/esv/mark/4.htm">English Standard Version</a> And they have no root in themselves, but endure for a while; then, when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately they fall away. <a href="/bsb/mark/4.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> But they themselves have no root, and they remain for only a season. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. <a href="/blb/mark/4.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> and they have no root in themselves, but are temporary. Then tribulation or persecution having arisen on account of the word, immediately they fall away. <a href="/kjv/mark/4.htm">King James Bible</a> And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word's sake, immediately they are offended. <a href="/nkjv/mark/4.htm">New King James Version</a> and they have no root in themselves, and so endure only for a time. Afterward, when tribulation or persecution arises for the word’s sake, immediately they stumble. <a href="/nasb_/mark/4.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> and yet they have no firm root in themselves, but are only temporary; then, when affliction or persecution occurs because of the word, immediately they fall away. <a href="/nasb/mark/4.htm">NASB 1995</a> and they have no firm root in themselves, but are only temporary; then, when affliction or persecution arises because of the word, immediately they fall away. <a href="/nasb77/mark/4.htm">NASB 1977 </a> and they have no firm root in themselves, but are only temporary; then, when affliction or persecution arises because of the word, immediately they fall away. <a href="/lsb/mark/4.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> and they have no root in themselves, but are only temporary; then, when affliction or persecution arises because of the word, immediately they fall away. <a href="/amp/mark/4.htm">Amplified Bible</a> and they have no real root in themselves, so they endure only for a little while; then, when trouble or persecution comes because of the word, immediately they [are offended and displeased at being associated with Me and] stumble and fall away. <a href="/csb/mark/4.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> But they have no root; they are short-lived. When distress or persecution comes because of the word, they immediately fall away. <a href="/hcsb/mark/4.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> But they have no root in themselves; they are short-lived. When pressure or persecution comes because of the word, they immediately stumble. <a href="/asv/mark/4.htm">American Standard Version</a> and they have no root in themselves, but endure for a while; then, when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, straightway they stumble. <a href="/cev/mark/4.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> But they don't have roots, and they don't last very long. As soon as life gets hard or the message gets them in trouble, they give up. <a href="/erv/mark/4.htm">English Revised Version</a> and they have no root in themselves, but endure for a while; then, when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, straightway they stumble. <a href="/gwt/mark/4.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> But they don't develop any roots. They last for a short time. When suffering or persecution comes along because of the word, they immediately fall [from faith]. <a href="/gnt/mark/4.htm">Good News Translation</a> But it does not sink deep into them, and they don't last long. So when trouble or persecution comes because of the message, they give up at once. <a href="/isv/mark/4.htm">International Standard Version</a> but since they don't have any roots, they last for only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes along because of the word, they immediately fall away. <a href="/msb/mark/4.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> But they themselves have no root, and they remain for only a season. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. <a href="/net/mark/4.htm">NET Bible</a> But they have no root in themselves and do not endure. Then, when trouble or persecution comes because of the word, immediately they fall away. <a href="/nheb/mark/4.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> And they have no root in themselves, but are short-lived. Then, when oppression or persecution arises because of the word, immediately they stumble. <a href="/wbt/mark/4.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word's sake, immediately they relapse. <a href="/wey/mark/4.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> but they have no root within them. They last for a time; then, when suffering or persecution comes because of the Message, they are immediately overthrown. <a href="/web/mark/4.htm">World English Bible</a> They have no root in themselves, but are short-lived. When oppression or persecution arises because of the word, immediately they stumble. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/mark/4.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> and have no root in themselves, but are temporary; afterward tribulation or persecution having come because of the word, immediately they are stumbled. <a href="/blb/mark/4.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> and they have no root in themselves, but are temporary. Then tribulation or persecution having arisen on account of the word, immediately they fall away. <a href="/ylt/mark/4.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> and have not root in themselves, but are temporary; afterward tribulation or persecution having come because of the word, immediately they are stumbled. <a href="/slt/mark/4.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And have no root in themselves, but are temporary; then pressure having been or expulsion for the word, quickly are they scandalized.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/mark/4.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> And they have no root in themselves, but are only for a time: and then when tribulation and persecution ariseth for the word they are presently scandalized. <a href="/cpdv/mark/4.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> But they have no root in themselves, and so they are for a limited time. And when next tribulation and persecution arises because of the word, they quickly fall away. <a href="/nabre/mark/4.htm">New American Bible</a> But they have no root; they last only for a time. Then when tribulation or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. <a href="/nrsvce/mark/4.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> But they have no root, and endure only for a while; then, when trouble or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately they fall away.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/mark/4.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> And they have no root in themselves, but last for a while; and when trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they soon stumble. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/mark/4.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> “And they have no root in themselves, but they abide for a while, and when there is distress or persecution because of the word, they are soon subverted.”<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/mark/4.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> and they have no root in themselves, but endure for a time; afterward, when affliction or persecution arises on account of the word, they immediately take offense. <a href="/godbey/mark/4.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> <FR>And they have no root in themselves, but are temporary; then tribulation or persecution arising on account of the word, they are immediately offended:<Fr> <a href="/haweis/mark/4.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> and have no root in themselves, but are temporary professors: afterwards, when tribulation cometh or persecution for the word?s sake, immediately they are offended. <a href="/mace/mark/4.htm">Mace New Testament</a> but having no root at the bottom, they are only occasional professors, for if they meet with any trouble or persecution upon account of the word, immediately they revolt. <a href="/wey/mark/4.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> but they have no root within them. They last for a time; then, when suffering or persecution comes because of the Message, they are immediately overthrown. <a href="/worrell/mark/4.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> <FR>and they have no root in themselves, but are only temporary; then, when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, straightway they stumble.<Fr> <a href="/worsley/mark/4.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> <FR>immediately receive it with joy, but have no root in themselves, <Fr>and so<FR> continue but for a <Fr>short<FR> season: <Fr>and<FR> then, when affliction cometh, or persecution on account of the word, they are <Fr>as<FR> soon offended.<Fr> <a href="/parallel/mark/4-17.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DmwDTC71zvQ?start=1001" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/mark/4.htm">The Parable of the Sower Explained</a> …16Some are like the seeds sown on rocky ground. They hear the word and at once receive it with joy. 17<a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">But</a> <a href="/greek/2192.htm" title="2192: echousin (V-PIA-3P) -- To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold.">they themselves have</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc."></a> <a href="/greek/1438.htm" title="1438: heautois (RefPro-DM3P) -- Himself, herself, itself. "></a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ouk (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.">no</a> <a href="/greek/4491.htm" title="4491: rhizan (N-AFS) -- A root, shoot, source; that which comes from the root, a descendent. Apparently a primary word; a root.">root,</a> <a href="/greek/235.htm" title="235: alla (Conj) -- But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.">and</a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: eisin (V-PIA-3P) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">they remain</a> <a href="/greek/4340.htm" title="4340: proskairoi (Adj-NMP) -- For a season, temporary. From pros and kairos; for the occasion only, i.e. Temporary.">for only a season.</a> <a href="/greek/1534.htm" title="1534: eita (Adv) -- A particle of succession, then, moreover.">When</a> <a href="/greek/2347.htm" title="2347: thlipseōs (N-GFS) -- Persecution, affliction, distress, tribulation. From thlibo; pressure.">trouble</a> <a href="/greek/2228.htm" title="2228: ē (Conj) -- Or, than. A primary particle of distinction between two connected terms; disjunctive, or; comparative, than.">or</a> <a href="/greek/1375.htm" title="1375: diōgmou (N-GMS) -- Chase, pursuit; persecution. From dioko; persecution.">persecution</a> <a href="/greek/1096.htm" title="1096: genomenēs (V-APM-GFS) -- A prolongation and middle voice form of a primary verb; to cause to be, i.e. to become, used with great latitude.">comes</a> <a href="/greek/1223.htm" title="1223: dia (Prep) -- A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through.">because of</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ton (Art-AMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/3056.htm" title="3056: logon (N-AMS) -- From lego; something said; by implication, a topic, also reasoning or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, the Divine Expression.">word,</a> <a href="/greek/2112.htm" title="2112: euthys (Adv) -- Immediately, soon, at once. Adverb from euthus; directly, i.e. At once or soon."></a> <a href="/greek/4624.htm" title="4624: skandalizontai (V-PIM/P-3P) -- From skandalon; to entrap, i.e. Trip up (transitively) or entice to sin, apostasy or displeasure).">they quickly fall away.</a> 18Others are like the seeds sown among the thorns. They hear the word,…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/matthew/13-21.htm">Matthew 13:21</a> But since he has no root, he remains for only a season. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, he quickly falls away. <a href="/luke/8-13.htm">Luke 8:13</a> The seeds on rocky ground are those who hear the word and receive it with joy, but they have no root. They believe for a season, but in the time of testing, they fall away. <a href="/john/15-6.htm">John 15:6</a> If anyone does not remain in Me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers. Such branches are gathered up, thrown into the fire, and burned. <a href="/2_timothy/3-12.htm">2 Timothy 3:12</a> Indeed, all who desire to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, <a href="/james/1-11.htm">James 1:11</a> For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its flower falls and its beauty is lost. So too, the rich man will fade away in the midst of his pursuits. <a href="/hebrews/3-12.htm">Hebrews 3:12-14</a> See to it, brothers, that none of you has a wicked heart of unbelief that turns away from the living God. / But exhort one another daily, as long as it is called today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness. / We have come to share in Christ if we hold firmly to the end the assurance we had at first. <a href="/1_peter/4-12.htm">1 Peter 4:12-13</a> Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial that has come upon you, as though something strange were happening to you. / But rejoice that you share in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed at the revelation of His glory. <a href="/1_john/2-19.htm">1 John 2:19</a> They went out from us, but they did not belong to us. For if they had belonged to us, they would have remained with us. But their departure made it clear that none of them belonged to us. <a href="/romans/5-3.htm">Romans 5:3-4</a> Not only that, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; / perseverance, character; and character, hope. <a href="/2_corinthians/4-17.htm">2 Corinthians 4:17</a> For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory that is far beyond comparison. <a href="/acts/14-22.htm">Acts 14:22</a> strengthening the souls of the disciples and encouraging them to continue in the faith. “We must endure many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said. <a href="/colossians/1-23.htm">Colossians 1:23</a> if indeed you continue in your faith, established and firm, not moved from the hope of the gospel you heard, which has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven, and of which I, Paul, have become a servant. <a href="/ephesians/3-13.htm">Ephesians 3:13</a> So I ask you not to be discouraged because of my sufferings for you, which are your glory. <a href="/1_thessalonians/3-3.htm">1 Thessalonians 3:3-4</a> so that none of you would be shaken by these trials. For you know that we are destined for this. / Indeed, when we were with you, we kept warning you that we would suffer persecution; and as you know, it has come to pass. <a href="/isaiah/40-8.htm">Isaiah 40:8</a> The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever.”</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution rises for the word's sake, immediately they are offended.have.<a href="/mark/4-5.htm">Mark 4:5,6</a> And some fell on stony ground, where it had not much earth; and immediately it sprang up, because it had no depth of earth: … <a href="/job/19-28.htm">Job 19:28</a> But ye should say, Why persecute we him, seeing the root of the matter is found in me?<a href="/job/27-8.htm">Job 27:8-10</a> For what is the hope of the hypocrite, though he hath gained, when God taketh away his soul? … when.<a href="/matthew/11-6.htm">Matthew 11:6</a> And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me.<a href="/matthew/13-21.htm">Matthew 13:21</a> Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.<a href="/matthew/24-9.htm">Matthew 24:9,10</a> Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake… <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/mark/3-9.htm">Account</a> <a href="/zechariah/10-11.htm">Affliction</a> <a href="/mark/2-1.htm">Afterward</a> <a href="/matthew/13-21.htm">Arises</a> <a href="/matthew/13-21.htm">Ariseth</a> <a href="/matthew/27-53.htm">Arising</a> <a href="/matthew/24-13.htm">Endure</a> <a href="/mark/3-11.htm">Fall</a> <a href="/matthew/24-13.htm">Firm</a> <a href="/mark/2-12.htm">Full</a> <a href="/mark/4-16.htm">Immediately</a> <a href="/mark/3-24.htm">Last</a> <a href="/mark/4-16.htm">Message</a> <a href="/matthew/26-33.htm">Offended</a> <a href="/matthew/24-29.htm">Oppression</a> <a href="/jonah/3-4.htm">Overthrown</a> <a href="/matthew/17-15.htm">Pain</a> <a href="/matthew/13-21.htm">Persecution</a> <a href="/mark/4-5.htm">Quickly</a> <a href="/mark/4-6.htm">Root</a> <a href="/matthew/24-22.htm">Sake</a> <a href="/matthew/27-28.htm">Short</a> <a href="/psalms/39-4.htm">Short-Lived</a> <a href="/mark/4-5.htm">Straightway</a> <a href="/matthew/26-33.htm">Stumble</a> <a href="/mark/1-34.htm">Suffering</a> <a href="/1_kings/20-16.htm">Temporary</a> <a href="/mark/3-11.htm">Themselves</a> <a href="/mark/4-12.htm">Time</a> <a href="/matthew/24-29.htm">Tribulation</a> <a href="/matthew/28-14.htm">Trouble</a> <a href="/mark/2-8.htm">Within</a> <a href="/mark/4-16.htm">Word</a> <a href="/2_samuel/7-21.htm">Word's</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/mark/5-16.htm">Account</a> <a href="/mark/5-29.htm">Affliction</a> <a href="/mark/8-8.htm">Afterward</a> <a href="/john/7-52.htm">Arises</a> <a href="/john/7-52.htm">Ariseth</a> <a href="/2_peter/3-5.htm">Arising</a> <a href="/mark/8-31.htm">Endure</a> <a href="/mark/5-22.htm">Fall</a> <a href="/mark/13-13.htm">Firm</a> <a href="/mark/4-28.htm">Full</a> <a href="/mark/4-29.htm">Immediately</a> <a href="/mark/5-23.htm">Last</a> <a href="/mark/4-18.htm">Message</a> <a href="/mark/6-3.htm">Offended</a> <a href="/mark/13-19.htm">Oppression</a> <a href="/luke/11-17.htm">Overthrown</a> <a href="/mark/9-18.htm">Pain</a> <a href="/mark/10-30.htm">Persecution</a> <a href="/mark/4-29.htm">Quickly</a> <a href="/luke/3-9.htm">Root</a> <a href="/mark/6-17.htm">Sake</a> <a href="/mark/13-20.htm">Short</a> <a href="/hebrews/11-25.htm">Short-Lived</a> <a href="/mark/4-29.htm">Straightway</a> <a href="/mark/9-42.htm">Stumble</a> <a href="/mark/5-29.htm">Suffering</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-18.htm">Temporary</a> <a href="/mark/4-34.htm">Themselves</a> <a href="/mark/4-29.htm">Time</a> <a href="/mark/13-19.htm">Tribulation</a> <a href="/mark/5-35.htm">Trouble</a> <a href="/mark/5-30.htm">Within</a> <a href="/mark/4-18.htm">Word</a> <a href="/1_peter/2-2.htm">Word's</a><div class="vheading2">Mark 4</div>1. <a href="/mark/4-1.htm">The parable of the sower,</a> 14. <a href="/mark/4-14.htm">and the meaning thereof.</a> 21. <a href="/mark/4-21.htm">We must communicate the light of our knowledge to others.</a> 26. <a href="/mark/4-26.htm">The parable of the seed growing secretly;</a> 30. <a href="/mark/4-30.htm">and of the mustard seed.</a> 35. <a href="/mark/4-35.htm">Jesus stills the storm on the sea.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/mark/4.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/mark/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/mark/4.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>But they themselves have no root This phrase highlights the lack of depth in the spiritual life of certain individuals. In the context of the Parable of the Sower, the seed represents the word of God, and the soil represents the hearts of people. A rootless plant cannot sustain itself, symbolizing a superficial faith that lacks a firm foundation. Biblically, roots often symbolize stability and nourishment (<a href="/jeremiah/17-8.htm">Jeremiah 17:8</a>). Without roots, believers are vulnerable to external pressures and internal doubts. This imagery is consistent with the Old Testament's emphasis on being deeply rooted in God's word (<a href="/psalms/1-3.htm">Psalm 1:3</a>).and they remain for only a season The temporary nature of their faith is emphasized here. The phrase suggests that their commitment is short-lived, much like the seed that falls on rocky ground and sprouts quickly but withers under the sun. This reflects the cultural context of ancient Palestine, where the climate could be harsh, and only well-rooted plants could survive. The idea of a "season" also connects to <a href="/ecclesiastes/3.htm">Ecclesiastes 3:1</a>, which speaks of a time for every purpose, indicating that without depth, faith cannot endure the changing seasons of life.When trouble or persecution comes because of the word This part of the verse addresses the inevitable challenges that arise from living out one's faith. In the early Christian context, believers often faced persecution from both Jewish authorities and the Roman Empire. The phrase "because of the word" indicates that these troubles are directly related to their commitment to the gospel. This echoes Jesus' warnings in <a href="/john/15-20.htm">John 15:20</a>, where He tells His disciples that they will face persecution as He did. The historical context of the early church, as seen in Acts, shows that persecution was a common experience for believers.they quickly fall away The rapidity of their departure from faith underscores the fragility of their initial commitment. This falling away, or apostasy, is a recurring theme in the New Testament, where believers are warned to remain steadfast (<a href="/hebrews/3-12.htm">Hebrews 3:12</a>). The Greek term used here can also imply stumbling or being scandalized, suggesting that the challenges they face cause them to abandon their faith. This serves as a cautionary message about the importance of perseverance and the dangers of a shallow faith, as seen in the exhortations of Paul to stand firm in the faith (<a href="/1_corinthians/16-13.htm">1 Corinthians 16:13</a>).<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/j/jesus.htm">Jesus</a> The speaker of the parable, teaching about the Kingdom of God through the Parable of the Sower. 2. <a href="/topical/t/the_sower.htm">The Sower</a> Represents anyone who spreads the Word of God. 3. <a href="/topical/t/the_seed.htm">The Seed</a> Symbolizes the Word of God being sown into the hearts of people. 4. <a href="/topical/t/the_rocky_ground.htm">The Rocky Ground</a> Represents those who receive the Word with joy but have no root. 5. <a href="/topical/t/trouble_or_persecution.htm">Trouble or Persecution</a> Challenges that arise because of one's faith in the Word.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_deep_roots.htm">The Importance of Deep Roots</a> Spiritual depth is crucial for enduring faith. Without deep roots, believers are vulnerable to falling away when faced with challenges. <a href="/topical/e/expecting_trials_and_persecution.htm">Expecting Trials and Persecution</a> Believers should anticipate trials and persecution as part of their faith journey. These challenges test the authenticity and depth of one's faith. <a href="/topical/j/joy_in_receiving_the_word.htm">Joy in Receiving the Word</a> Initial joy in receiving the Word is important, but it must be accompanied by a commitment to grow deeper in understanding and application. <a href="/topical/c/cultivating_a_strong_foundation.htm">Cultivating a Strong Foundation</a> Regular engagement with Scripture, prayer, and fellowship with other believers are essential practices for developing deep spiritual roots. <a href="/topical/p/perseverance_in_faith.htm">Perseverance in Faith</a> True faith perseveres through difficulties. Believers are called to remain steadfast and trust in God's promises despite external pressures.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_mark_4.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Mark 4</a> <a href="/q/what_makes_someone_an_ex-christian.htm">What defines someone as an ex-Christian?</a> <a href="/q/define_positive_confession..htm">What is the definition of positive confession?</a> <a href="/q/why_do_people_lose_faith.htm">What causes people to abandon their faith?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_'falling_away'_mean.htm">What does "falling away" mean?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a> <a href="/commentaries/mark/4-17.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>But καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. they themselves have ἔχουσιν (echousin) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2192.htm">Strong's 2192: </a> To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold. no οὐκ (ouk) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3756.htm">Strong's 3756: </a> No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not. root, ῥίζαν (rhizan) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4491.htm">Strong's 4491: </a> A root, shoot, source; that which comes from the root, a descendent. Apparently a primary word; a 'root'. [and] ἀλλὰ (alla) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_235.htm">Strong's 235: </a> But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise. they remain εἰσιν (eisin) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. for only a season. πρόσκαιροί (proskairoi) Adjective - Nominative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4340.htm">Strong's 4340: </a> For a season, temporary. From pros and kairos; for the occasion only, i.e. Temporary. When εἶτα (eita) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_1534.htm">Strong's 1534: </a> A particle of succession, then, moreover. trouble θλίψεως (thlipseōs) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2347.htm">Strong's 2347: </a> Persecution, affliction, distress, tribulation. From thlibo; pressure. or ἢ (ē) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2228.htm">Strong's 2228: </a> Or, than. A primary particle of distinction between two connected terms; disjunctive, or; comparative, than. persecution διωγμοῦ (diōgmou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1375.htm">Strong's 1375: </a> Chase, pursuit; persecution. From dioko; persecution. comes γενομένης (genomenēs) Verb - Aorist Participle Middle - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1096.htm">Strong's 1096: </a> A prolongation and middle voice form of a primary verb; to cause to be, i.e. to become, used with great latitude. because of διὰ (dia) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1223.htm">Strong's 1223: </a> A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through. the τὸν (ton) Article - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. word, λόγον (logon) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3056.htm">Strong's 3056: </a> From lego; something said; by implication, a topic, also reasoning or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, the Divine Expression. they quickly fall away. σκανδαλίζονται (skandalizontai) Verb - Present Indicative Middle or Passive - 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4624.htm">Strong's 4624: </a> From skandalon; to entrap, i.e. Trip up (transitively) or entice to sin, apostasy or displeasure). <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/mark/4-17.htm">Mark 4:17 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/mark/4-17.htm">Mark 4:17 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/mark/4-17.htm">Mark 4:17 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/mark/4-17.htm">Mark 4:17 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/mark/4-17.htm">Mark 4:17 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/mark/4-17.htm">Mark 4:17 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/mark/4-17.htm">Mark 4:17 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/mark/4-17.htm">Mark 4:17 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/mark/4-17.htm">Mark 4:17 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/mark/4-17.htm">Mark 4:17 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/mark/4-17.htm">NT Gospels: Mark 4:17 They have no root in themselves (Mar Mk Mr) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/mark/4-16.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Mark 4:16"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Mark 4:16" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/mark/4-18.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Mark 4:18"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Mark 4:18" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>