Be Not Afraid, Only Believe (Mark 5:36)

2025-07-13

As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, he saith unto the ruler of the synagogue, Be not afraid, only believe. (Mark 5:36)

I heard a good sermon from this passage this morning. Here is a thought from this phrase that stood out.

Jesus was interrupted by a woman who touched His clothes for healing on the way to heal Jairus’ 12-year-old daughter. When He was finished with her, the synagogue ruler heard of the death of his only child. Jesus had not gotten there in time, as the reasoning was. “Be not afraid, only believe.” These were the words of comfort to the ruler. And we all know how the story ends: the little girl lived.

When we are faced with fully hopeless situation, like Jairus’ daughter’s death, Jesus tells us to not fear and trust Him. We are on a stronger ark than that of the days of Noah, and He will carry us through safely. If Jesus reversed death, is there anything He cannot do?