Mark 3:21 Commentary - Whedon's Commentary on the Old and New Testaments

21. When his friends At Nazareth, where the reports of these miracles were in keeping with the depraved character of the place and the subject. Probably they had heard of the charge of his being a demoniac. Heard of it Heard that immense crowds were following his preaching the wonders he did. They went out From their homes, to rescue him from the danger that might result from the excitement he was producing. Beside himself They doubtless meant this as an excuse for what they held to be the dangerous course of our Lord. He does not know what he is about in thus exposing himself to the danger of being held the author of public commotion. For the people were, as we learn by Mat 12:23, beginning to call to mind that he was the Son of David, and there was just fear of an insurrection. Mar 3:22-30. Compare notes on Mat 12:24-32. Whitby, however, prefers to render the words, “He is fainty,” or exhausted; that is, by the presence of the multitudes.