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◄ Mark 4:17►

New International Version
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.

New Living Translation
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.

English Standard Version
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.

Berean Standard Bible
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.

Berean Literal Bible
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.

King James Bible
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.

New King James Version
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.

New American Standard Bible
andyet they have nofirm root in themselves, but areonly temporary; then, when affliction or persecution occurs because of the word, immediately they fall away.

NASB 1995
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.

NASB 1977
and they have nofirm root in themselves, but areonly temporary; then, when affliction or persecution arises because of the word, immediately they fall away.

Legacy Standard Bible
and they have no root in themselves, but areonly temporary; then, when affliction or persecution arises because of the word, immediately they fall away.

Amplified Bible
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] stumbleand fall away.

Christian Standard Bible
But they have no root; they are short-lived. When distress or persecution comes because of the word, they immediately fall away.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
But they have no root in themselves; they are short-lived. When pressure or persecution comes because of the word, they immediately stumble.

American Standard Version
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.

Contemporary English Version
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.

English Revised Version
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.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
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].

Good News Translation
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.

International Standard Version
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.

NET Bible
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.

New Heart English Bible
And they have no root in themselves, but are short-lived. Then, when oppression or persecution arises because of the word, immediately they stumble.

Webster's Bible Translation
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.

Weymouth New Testament
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.

Majority Text Translations

Majority Standard Bible
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.

World English Bible
They have no root in themselves, but are short-lived. When oppression or persecution arises because of the word, immediately they stumble.

Literal Translations

Literal Standard Version
and have no root in themselves, but are temporary; afterward tribulation or persecution having come because of the word, immediately they are stumbled.

Berean Literal Bible
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.

Young's Literal Translation
and have not root in themselves, but are temporary; afterward tribulation or persecution having come because of the word, immediately they are stumbled.

Smith's Literal Translation
And have no root in themselves, but are temporary; then pressure having been or expulsion for the word, quickly are they scandalized.

Catholic Translations

Douay-Rheims Bible
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.

Catholic Public Domain Version
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.

New American Bible
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.

New Revised Standard Version
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.

Translations from Aramaic

Lamsa Bible
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.

Aramaic Bible in Plain English
“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.”

NT Translations

Anderson New Testament
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.

Godbey New Testament
And they have no root in themselves, but are temporary; then tribulation or persecution arising on account of the word, they are immediately offended:

Haweis New Testament
and have no root in themselves, but are temporaryprofessors: afterwards, when tribulation cometh or persecution for the word’s sake, immediately they are offended.

Mace New Testament
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.

Weymouth New Testament
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.

Worrell New Testament
and they have no root in themselves, but areonly temporary; then, when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, straightway they stumble.

Worsley New Testament
immediately receive it with joy, but have no root in themselves,and so continue but for ashort season:and then, when affliction cometh, or persecution on account of the word, they areas soon offended.

Additional Translations ...

Audio Bible

Context

The Parable of the Sower Explained
…16Some are like the seeds sown on rocky ground. They hear the word and at once receive it with joy.17But 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.18Others are like the seeds sown among the thorns. They hear the word,…

Berean Standard Bible ·Download

Cross References

Matthew 13:21
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.

Luke 8:13
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.

John 15:6
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.

2 Timothy 3:12
Indeed, all who desire to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,

James 1:11
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.

Hebrews 3:12-14
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.

1 Peter 4:12-13
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.

1 John 2:19
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.

Romans 5:3-4
Not only that, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; / perseverance, character; and character, hope.

2 Corinthians 4:17
For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory that is far beyond comparison.

Acts 14:22
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.

Colossians 1:23
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.

Ephesians 3:13
So I ask you not to be discouraged because of my sufferings for you, which are your glory.

1 Thessalonians 3:3-4
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.

Isaiah 40:8
The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever.”

Treasury of Scripture

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.

Mark 4:5,6
And some fell on stony ground, where it had not much earth; and immediately it sprang up, because it had no depth of earth: …

Job 19:28
But ye should say, Why persecute we him, seeing the root of the matter is found in me?

Job 27:8-10
For whatis the hope of the hypocrite, though he hath gained, when God taketh away his soul? …

when.

Matthew 11:6
And blessed ishe, whosoever shall not be offended in me.

Matthew 13:21
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.

Matthew 24:9,10
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…

Jump to Previous

Account Affliction Afterward Arises Ariseth Arising Endure Fall Firm Full Immediately Last Message Offended Oppression Overthrown Pain Persecution Quickly Root Sake Short Short-Lived Straightway Stumble Suffering Temporary Themselves Time Tribulation Trouble Within Word Word's

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Mark 4

1.The parable of the sower,
14.and the meaning thereof.
21.We must communicate the light of our knowledge to others.
26.The parable of the seed growing secretly;
30.and of the mustard seed.
35.Jesus stills the storm on the sea.

Study Bible

Book ◦ Chapter

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 (Jeremiah 17:8). 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 (Psalm 1:3).

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 toEcclesiastes 3:1, 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 inJohn 15:20, 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 (Hebrews 3:12). 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 (1 Corinthians 16:13).

Persons / Places / Events

1.Jesus
The speaker of the parable, teaching about the Kingdom of God through the Parable of the Sower.

2.The Sower
Represents anyone who spreads the Word of God.

3.The Seed
Symbolizes the Word of God being sown into the hearts of people.

4.The Rocky Ground
Represents those who receive the Word with joy but have no root.

5.Trouble or Persecution
Challenges that arise because of one's faith in the Word.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Deep Roots
Spiritual depth is crucial for enduring faith. Without deep roots, believers are vulnerable to falling away when faced with challenges.

Expecting Trials and Persecution
Believers should anticipate trials and persecution as part of their faith journey. These challenges test the authenticity and depth of one's faith.

Joy in Receiving the Word
Initial joy in receiving the Word is important, but it must be accompanied by a commitment to grow deeper in understanding and application.

Cultivating a Strong Foundation
Regular engagement with Scripture, prayer, and fellowship with other believers are essential practices for developing deep spiritual roots.

Perseverance in Faith
True faith perseveres through difficulties. Believers are called to remain steadfast and trust in God's promises despite external pressures.

Bible Study Questions and Answers

1.What is the meaning of Mark 4:17?

2.How can we deepen our roots to withstand "trouble or persecution"?

3.What causes some to "fall away" when facing trials, according to Mark 4:17?

4.How does Mark 4:17 relate to the parable of the sower?

5.What practical steps strengthen faith during "trouble or persecution"?

6.How can church community support those struggling with shallow spiritual roots?

7.Why do some believers fall away when faced with trials, as described in Mark 4:17?

8.How does Mark 4:17 challenge the idea of enduring faith?

9.What historical context influences the interpretation of Mark 4:17?

10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Mark 4?

11.What defines someone as an ex-Christian?

12.What is the definition of positive confession?

13.What causes people to abandon their faith?

14.What does "falling away" mean?

What Does Mark 4:17 Mean

But they themselves have no root

• Jesus pictures a plant sprouting in shallow soil—alive, yet lacking depth.

• Genuine, enduring faith sinks its roots into Christ; shallow faith rests on feelings or circumstances.

•Colossians 2:7: “rooted and built up in Him.”

•Ephesians 3:17 reminds us that Christ dwells “through faith” in hearts that are “rooted and grounded in love.”

• Without this unseen anchor, spiritual life cannot draw the nourishment needed for perseverance.

and they remain for only a season

• The initial burst of enthusiasm can look impressive—just like spring growth.

• Time reveals what soil cannot: the difference between emotional response and Spirit-wrought conversion.

•Galatians 6:9 speaks of “due season”; authentic believers endure until harvest, while the superficial fade when the season changes.

•Psalm 1:3 contrasts: the righteous tree “yields its fruit in season,” because it is planted by streams of water.

When trouble or persecution comes because of the word

• Jesus prepares His followers for inevitable resistance; the gospel provokes opposition (2 Timothy 3:12).

• Trials expose what comfort can conceal—whether the Word truly rules the heart.

•Acts 14:22: “We must endure many hardships to enter the kingdom of God.”

• Those without root are surprised by suffering and unprepared to stand, proving their commitment was conditional.

they quickly fall away

• The phrase points to an immediate, observable retreat from Christ when faith becomes costly.

•John 15:6: “If anyone does not remain in Me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers.”

•1 John 2:19 clarifies: departure reveals they “were not of us.”

• Perseverance does not save us; it confirms that saving faith is present (Hebrews 3:14).

summary

Mark 4:17 warns that a profession of faith without deep, personal rooting in Christ will not survive the heat of trouble or persecution. Christian life must draw life from Jesus Himself, expect hardship for the Word’s sake, and endure by His sustaining grace.

Parallel Commentaries ...

Greek

But
καὶ(kai)
Conjunction
Strong's 2532:And, even, also, namely.

they themselves have
ἔχουσιν(echousin)
Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural
Strong's 2192:To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold.

no
οὐκ(ouk)
Adverb
Strong's 3756:No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.

root,
ῥίζαν(rhizan)
Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular
Strong's 4491:A root, shoot, source; that which comes from the root, a descendent. Apparently a primary word; a 'root'.

[and]
ἀλλὰ(alla)
Conjunction
Strong's 235:But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.

they remain
εἰσιν(eisin)
Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural
Strong's 1510: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
Strong's 4340:For a season, temporary. From pros and kairos; for the occasion only, i.e. Temporary.

When
εἶτα(eita)
Adverb
Strong's 1534:A particle of succession, then, moreover.

trouble
θλίψεως(thlipseōs)
Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular
Strong's 2347:Persecution, affliction, distress, tribulation. From thlibo; pressure.

or
ἢ(ē)
Conjunction
Strong's 2228:Or, than. A primary particle of distinction between two connected terms; disjunctive, or; comparative, than.

persecution
διωγμοῦ(diōgmou)
Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular
Strong's 1375:Chase, pursuit; persecution. From dioko; persecution.

comes
γενομένης(genomenēs)
Verb - Aorist Participle Middle - Genitive Feminine Singular
Strong's 1096: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
Strong's 1223:A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through.

the
τὸν(ton)
Article - Accusative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3588: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
Strong's 3056: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
Strong's 4624:From skandalon; to entrap, i.e. Trip up (transitively) or entice to sin, apostasy or displeasure).

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NT Gospels: Mark 4:17 They have no root in themselves (Mar Mk Mr)