Mark 13:21

Mark 13:21 Meaning and Explanation

And then if any man shall say to you, Lo, here is Christ; or, lo, he is there; believe him not:

King James Version (KJV)

Read this verse in context with translation switching:

Read Full Chapter →

If anyone says 'Look, here is Christ' or 'Look, he is there,' the disciples are not to believe it.

What Does Mark 13:21 Mean?

Jesus returns to the danger he named first: deception. In days of desperation, messiah-rumors multiply — whispers that the Deliverer has appeared in this place or that, hidden away, known only to a few. The instruction is blunt and freeing: believe him not.

Desperate hearts are credulous hearts, and Jesus arms his people in advance. The logic becomes plain a few verses on: his true coming will be in the clouds with power and glory, seen by all — needing no promoter and no password. Whatever requires us to be persuaded that Christ has secretly arrived is, by that very fact, not Christ. His people can wait without anxiety: when he comes, no one will have to tell them.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mark 13:21

What does Mark 13:21 mean?

If anyone says 'Look, here is Christ' or 'Look, he is there,' the disciples are not to believe it.

Keep Studying Mark 13

Read the whole chapter in KJV, ASV, or WEB, or go deeper with the chapter study guide and key themes.