In the task of training people for evangelism is important to know how God sees and treats unbelievers.
There is a passage in Mark 4: 1-20; Matthew 13: 1-23 and Luke 8: 4-15 indicating four responses to evengelio part of the unbelievers: 1) falling on hard ground along the path 2) falling on stony 3) that falls among thorns and 4) that falls on good ground. Here in Psalm 107 we also four types of people who respond to the gospel.
What we seek in the first reading:
As we read the text of Psalm observe his patterns.
What are synonyms for "redeem"?
How does the psalmist defines the word "redeem" in the same Psalm?
What are the sayings that are repeated in Psalm?
1-3
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; His love endures forever.
Let them say the Lord's redeemed, whom he redeemed from the hand of the adversary,
who gathered from all lands, from east and west, north and south.
4-10
Wandered in desert places, without finding the way to a livable city.
Hungry and thirsty, life ebbed them.
In their distress they cried to the Lord, and he delivered them from their distress.
He took the right path until you reach a livable city.
Let them thank the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for men!
He quenches the thirst of the thirsty, and satiated with the best the hungry!
11-16
Afflicted and chained, living in the densest darkness
because they rebelled against the words of God, by disregarding the counsel of the Most High.
Subjected them to forced labor; Stumbled, and there was none to help.
In their distress they cried to the Lord, and he saved them from their distress.
Them out of the dark shadows and broke their chains in pieces.
Let them thank the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for men!
He shatters the doors of bronze and breaks into pieces the iron bars!
17-22
Upset by his rebellion, distressed by their wickedness,
all food caused them disgusting.They arrived at the gates of death!
In their distress they cried to the Lord, and he saved them from their distress.
He sent his word and healed them and rescued them from the grave.
Let them thank the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for men!
They offer sacrifices of thanksgiving, and tell of his works jubilant
23-32
They took to the sea in ships; To trade sailed many waters.
There, in the deep waters, they saw the works of the Lord and his wonders.
God spoke, and therefore a strong wind broke up the waves
who went up to heaven and down to the depths. Given the danger, they lost courage.
As drunk stumbled, staggered; Worth anything to them at their wits.
In their distress they cried to the Lord, and he brought them out of their distress.
Changed the storm to a whisper: the waves were hushed.
Calm Before that they were glad, and he guided them to their desired haven.
Let them thank the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for men!
Let them exalt him in the assembly of the people!Praise him in the council of elders!
33-43
God turned rivers into a desert, springs into dry land,
fertile land in salt land, for the wickedness of its inhabitants.
He turned the desert into pools of water, dry land springs;
makes the hungry to dwell there, and they founded a livable city.
They sowed fields and planted vineyards, obtained abundant crops.
God blessed them and multiplied, and did not let their herds dwindle.
But if merman and humiliated, is by oppression, evil and distress.
God despises the nobility and makes them wander in a trackless waste.
But the needy out of its misery, and makes their families like flocks grow.
The upright see and rejoice, but all the wicked will be silenced.
43
Whoever is wise, let him understand these things and consider the great love of the Lord.
In the second reading
Mark all God's actions. For example: God spoke, God blessed, God turned, and so on.
Make all the actions of men.
Psalm 107: 1-3
The task of believers
1-3
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; His love endures forever.
Let them say the Lord's redeemed, whom he redeemed from the hand of the adversary,
who gathered from all lands, from east and west, north and south.
What is the task of the redeemed or believers in the first three verses?
The first three verses define the task of believers is to proclaim the greatness of the Lord. Let your friends know what the Lord has done for you. In other words, evangelizalos. How do we know this is the focus of Psalm? We know that the four groups of people describing Psalm start as unbelievers or rebels. They will not invoke the Lord, if they do not listen to Him (Romans 10:? 14-15 14 Now How can they call on him in whom they have not believed How shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard And how can they hear without someone preaching to them 15 how can they preach unless they are sent so it is written? "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news! ').
The following 4 paragraphs answer why the introduction.
What they have in common the 4 groups of people described before invoking the Lord in this Psalm?
Psalm 107: 4-10
1 First case: those who ignore God Psalm 107: 4-10
Wandered in desert places, without finding the way to a livable city.
Hungry and thirsty, life ebbed them.
In their distress they cried to the Lord, and he delivered them from their distress.
He took the right path until you reach a livable city.
Let them thank the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for men!
He quenches the thirst of the thirsty, and satiated with the best the hungry!
This case presents no rebellion against God. People are living their own lives. Suddenly they are in a desert where there is no fruit or productivity in their lives.
The Psalm describes these "lost" or in the wrong place people. They were "without finding the way", without food and water. "Life was eating them." In other words they were very needy. The anguish led to "cry unto the Lord."
Analyzes the situation of the following three groups. What leads them to cry out to God?
Psalm 107: 11-16
2 Second case: Those who rebel against God
11-16
Afflicted and chained, living in the densest darkness
because they rebelled against the words of God, by disregarding the counsel of the Most High.
Subjected them to forced labor; Stumbled, and there was none to help.
In their distress they cried to the Lord, and he saved them from their distress.
Them out of the dark shadows and broke their chains in pieces.
Let them thank the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for men!
He shatters the doors of bronze and breaks into pieces the iron bars!
3 Third case: Those who rebel against God with iniquity Psalm 107: 17-22
17-22
Upset by his rebellion, distressed by their wickedness,
all food caused them disgusting.They arrived at the gates of death!
In their distress they cried to the Lord, and he saved them from their distress.
He sent his word and healed them and rescued them from the grave.
Let them thank the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for men!
They offer sacrifices of thanksgiving, and tell of his works jubilant
Fourth case: Traders who come to forget God Psalm 107: 23-32
23-32
They took to the sea in ships; To trade sailed many waters.
There, in the deep waters, they saw the works of the Lord and his wonders.
God spoke, and therefore a strong wind broke up the waves
who went up to heaven and down to the depths. Given the danger, they lost courage.
As drunk stumbled, staggered; Worth anything to them at their wits.
In their distress they cried to the Lord, and he brought them out of their distress.
Changed the storm to a whisper: the waves were hushed.
Calm Before that they were glad, and he guided them to their desired haven.
Let them thank the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for men!
Let them exalt him in the assembly of the people!Praise him in the council of elders!
Notes on Psalm 107: 4-32
The four cases have some common elements.
The four cases presented distressed people with whom God is speaking ..
After watching all four cases, we have the conclusions expressed by the Psalmist.
Conclusions of the psalmist:
33-43
God turned rivers into a desert, springs into dry land,
fertile land in salt land, for the wickedness of its inhabitants.
He turned the desert into pools of water, dry land springs;
makes the hungry to dwell there, and they founded a livable city.
They sowed fields and planted vineyards, obtained abundant crops.
God blessed them and multiplied, and did not let their herds dwindle.
But if merman and humiliated, is by oppression, evil and distress.
God despises the nobility and makes them wander in a trackless waste.
But the needy out of its misery, and makes their families like flocks grow.
The upright see and rejoice, but all the wicked will be silenced.
How God causes anxiety?
The four cases Psalm 107 presents not express all that God does to cause "anguish". He has his armies to do so and His only His armies not only people but also their enemies. If only his people were his armies, would not cause much distress. It has other functions for us, particulamente function to announce their redemption or salvation.
In Habakkuk 1: 5-11 God announces Habakkuk that has its ready army, his army of Chaldeans. The Chaldeans were the enemies of the people of Judah, ie, enemies of God's people. But the Chaldeans had the task of imposing justice on God's people. God is active in imposing justice. We must cry out to God for justice. When Habakkuk realized the injustice of God's people, he became "distressed". God imposes the "anxiety" that people arrepenta and he cries out to him for mercy.
Notes on Psalm 107: 33-43
The only actor in the conclusions is God. This indicates that God is active.
Straight respond to the actions of God with joy.
The voice of God determines the fate of men.
God is calling people in "trouble". In cases 2, 3, and 4 this "distress" is caused by God.
God calls people to trust Him.
It is not healthy to have God as an enemy.
Do we find a similar post in other books of the Bible?
Habakkuk complains about the "injustice" (Habakkuk 1: 1-4) in Judah shortly before the invasion of the Babylonians. God replies that he is responding to the injustices of men in Judea. It's going to lead to a total "anguish" where he sent into exile. Proud people have idols and despises his neighbor robbing their land, founding a town with blood, and your neighbor (Habakkuk 2: 7-19) tease. Habakkuk shows remorse when he says, "in thy righteousness, remember mercy" (Habakkuk 3: 1-3 Nebuchadnezzar is called "servant of the Lord" and his army "my army" in Jeremiah.).
In Judges (Judges 2: find a cycle)
people forget God and fall into sin,
God commands them to trial where their enemies are subject.
People in their distress cries to God.
God raises up a judge who delivers them from their enemies and
people serve God as the judge lives (Judges 2: 11-21).
Nebuchadnezzar is a Babylonian king who was commissioned of God to remove Jews from its territory in Jerusalem. In Jeremiah Nebuchadnezzar is called "servant of the Lord" to destroy the unfaithful to his knees (Jeremiah 25: 9, 27: 6 and 43:10) people. God used to cause anguish and repentance called the army of Nebuchadnezzar His army in Habakkuk (1: 5-11). The Revelation uses Babylon as symbol of evil.
God uses trouble and makes his words susceptible people and they will cry out for salvation.
These findings, along with the 4 cases presented indicate that we always have to think that anxiety can be caused by God when he calls his people.
To evangelize people need to look at where God is planting "trouble".
"It is not the healthy who need a doctor but the sick. And I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners "(Mark 2:17, NIV).
Final exhortation
Psalm 107: 43
Whoever is wise, let him understand these things and consider the great love of the Lord.
Monday, September 15, 2014
Wednesday, June 11, 2014
Titus
Titus: A Reading Guide
Introduction:
This letter was written near the end of Paul's life between 62 and 63 A.D. Paul's goal is to see that the church continues after his death. The infant church needed strengthening so that missionary work everywhere could continue.
Titus is a book, like the letters to Timothy, that seeks to establish "order" in the churches. As everyone can see, it is no easy matter to lead a church and, in fact, can be downright complicated. The letters to Timothy and Titus are for people responsible for the direction of a Christian community or church.
A difference between 1 Timothy and Titus is that the latter was written to a pastor where there was a previous church. 1 Timothy was written to a church that had already existed for over 10 years.
These letters were written close to the time of Paul's death as 1 and 2 Peter, 1, 2 and 3 John, Jude and James were written close to the deaths of these other Christian leaders. These letters focus on what these leaders thought was the essence of the Christian faith.
Paul sent Titus to the mission field to establish order in the church of Crete, an island south of Athens.
There are three types of information in the letter: 1. What Christians believe, 2. What Titus should do in the church of Crete, 3. Warnings.
Outline:
Introduction:
This letter was written near the end of Paul's life between 62 and 63 A.D. Paul's goal is to see that the church continues after his death. The infant church needed strengthening so that missionary work everywhere could continue.
Titus is a book, like the letters to Timothy, that seeks to establish "order" in the churches. As everyone can see, it is no easy matter to lead a church and, in fact, can be downright complicated. The letters to Timothy and Titus are for people responsible for the direction of a Christian community or church.
A difference between 1 Timothy and Titus is that the latter was written to a pastor where there was a previous church. 1 Timothy was written to a church that had already existed for over 10 years.
These letters were written close to the time of Paul's death as 1 and 2 Peter, 1, 2 and 3 John, Jude and James were written close to the deaths of these other Christian leaders. These letters focus on what these leaders thought was the essence of the Christian faith.
Paul sent Titus to the mission field to establish order in the church of Crete, an island south of Athens.
There are three types of information in the letter: 1. What Christians believe, 2. What Titus should do in the church of Crete, 3. Warnings.
Outline:
- Salutation (Titus 1:1-3)
- The task of Titus (Titus 1:4-16)
- What to teach (Titus 2:1-15)
- The conduct of a believer (Titus 3:1-11)
- Final personal greetings (Titus 3:12-15)
Exposition:
Salutation (Titus
1:1-3)
Doctrine: Our hope is eternal life, which God, who cannot
lie, promised before the foundation of creation. Now, in due time, this has been fulfilled through the preaching
entrusted to me by God our Savior. (Titus 1:2-3)
The
task of Titus (Titus 1:4-16)
Paul commands Titus to establish order in the church. The problem in the church is leadership. The lack of leadership has resulted in the increase of false teaching. This is solved by two actions that Titus must take. First, he must establish leadership in the church by the appointment of "elders." The requirements are that leaders should have some maturity in their persons, and, that they may be blameless. Such maturity in the faith should be reflected in the behavior of their families.
Leaders (elders) should also be able to teach "sound doctrine." Today we live in a time where doctrine is neglected. This opens the door to much false teaching. Certainly this describes the situation today.
Second, it is necessary to confront the false teachers and "shut their mouths." When balance is lost in church leadership, many evils are unleashed. The consequence of the lack of capable leaders is the promulgation of false doctrine and practices of charlatans and deceivers. This has the result of "ruining" lives (Titus 1:11). Thus we see the importance of leadership training.
Paul commands Titus to establish order in the church. The problem in the church is leadership. The lack of leadership has resulted in the increase of false teaching. This is solved by two actions that Titus must take. First, he must establish leadership in the church by the appointment of "elders." The requirements are that leaders should have some maturity in their persons, and, that they may be blameless. Such maturity in the faith should be reflected in the behavior of their families.
Leaders (elders) should also be able to teach "sound doctrine." Today we live in a time where doctrine is neglected. This opens the door to much false teaching. Certainly this describes the situation today.
Second, it is necessary to confront the false teachers and "shut their mouths." When balance is lost in church leadership, many evils are unleashed. The consequence of the lack of capable leaders is the promulgation of false doctrine and practices of charlatans and deceivers. This has the result of "ruining" lives (Titus 1:11). Thus we see the importance of leadership training.
What to teach (Titus 2:1-15)
Paul is concerned not only with church leadership. Sound doctrine must be the basis of what happens in the church. When such doctrine is preached, the different aspects of the church should work correctly.
All those who comprise the church, older men and women, younger men and women, and slaves, have duties to perform.
Paul is concerned not only with church leadership. Sound doctrine must be the basis of what happens in the church. When such doctrine is preached, the different aspects of the church should work correctly.
All those who comprise the church, older men and women, younger men and women, and slaves, have duties to perform.
Doctrine: God has appeared to all
mankind revealing his grace which brings
salvation. It teaches us to deny
ungodliness and worldly passions. Instead, we can live in this world with
righteousness, piety and self-control, as we await the blessed hope, that is,
the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ. He gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness
and to purify for himself a people dedicated to doing good (Titus 2:11-14).
"This is what you should teach" (Titus 2:15).
"This is what you should teach" (Titus 2:15).
The conduct of a believer (Titus 3:1-11)
Here is an exhortation to submit to civil authorities, and then an exhortation to good works towards all men.
Here is an exhortation to submit to civil authorities, and then an exhortation to good works towards all men.
Doctrine: "At one time we too were foolish and disobedient.
We were misled and
enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice
and envy, being hated and hating one another. 4 But when the kindness and love of God our
Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not by our own works of righteousness, but according
to his mercy. He saved us through the washing
of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, 6 whom he poured out on us
generously through Jesus Christ our Savior,
7 so that being justified by his grace, we might become heirs harboring
the hope of eternal life (Titus 3:3-8).
Paul makes the claim that this message is trustworthy.
That is to say, the gospel is true.
Then continues another exhortation to avoid "foolish controversies" that are not profitable.
Final personal greetings (Titus 3:12-15)
The letter ends with detailed instructions regarding Paul and his relationships to Titus and others whom he was shortly going to see. There is also a note that they must learn how to perform the works of a missionary of Jesus and not lead a useless life.
Comments on "Doctrine"
Then continues another exhortation to avoid "foolish controversies" that are not profitable.
Final personal greetings (Titus 3:12-15)
The letter ends with detailed instructions regarding Paul and his relationships to Titus and others whom he was shortly going to see. There is also a note that they must learn how to perform the works of a missionary of Jesus and not lead a useless life.
Comments on "Doctrine"
- It clearly indicates that Jesus is Savior and God.
- It indicates that we are all sinners without hope apart from Jesus.
- It indicates that God's plan was conceived before the creation of the world.
- Salvation was promised in the Old Testament.
- Salvation is of the Holy Spirit.
- Justification is the result of grace.
- Our hope is to receive eternal life and become heirs with Christ.
- It does not say that we have to do only what Jesus did.
Bibliography
- David F. Burt, Why do we need pastors?, Scaffolding.
- David F. Burt, Adorning the Doctrine of God, Scaffolding.
- Gordon Fee and Douglas Stuart, "Titus" in How to Read the Bible book by book, Life.
- William Hendriksen, "Titus" in New Testament Commentary, Baker Books.
Saturday, January 18, 2014
The Gospel according to Mark
Gospel of Mark: Reading Guide
Author:
At first, Mark was Paul's companion up until the Council of Jerusalem. Possibly the condition of a family member of Mark’s decided Paul against taking Mark with him on his next mission journey. This caused the separation of Paul and Barnabas. Mark joined with Barnabas and continued in the mission of spreading the gospel.
Tradition relates that Mark took his gospel from Peter. David Alan Black indicates the possibility that Peter went to Rome and gave talks about the gospel. Mark was there and took notes from Peter’s lectures. Peter’s lectures ended in Mark 16:8 and Mark himself wrote the last few verses to end his gospel. It’s a bit of a stretch but a possibility to suggest the gospel source.
In Mark's gospel, Peter’s perspective is seemingly supported by the narrative. Peter gets a lot more attention than the other disciples in Mark
At first, Mark was Paul's companion up until the Council of Jerusalem. Possibly the condition of a family member of Mark’s decided Paul against taking Mark with him on his next mission journey. This caused the separation of Paul and Barnabas. Mark joined with Barnabas and continued in the mission of spreading the gospel.
Tradition relates that Mark took his gospel from Peter. David Alan Black indicates the possibility that Peter went to Rome and gave talks about the gospel. Mark was there and took notes from Peter’s lectures. Peter’s lectures ended in Mark 16:8 and Mark himself wrote the last few verses to end his gospel. It’s a bit of a stretch but a possibility to suggest the gospel source.
In Mark's gospel, Peter’s perspective is seemingly supported by the narrative. Peter gets a lot more attention than the other disciples in Mark
1.
The calling of Simon (Peter) (Mark 1:16-18)
2.
The healing of the mother of Simon (Peter) (Mark 1:29-34)
3.
Simon (Peter) and company seek Jesus (Mark 1:36)
4.
Jesus appointed twelve that included
Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter) (Mark 3:16)
5.
Peter comes with Jesus to see the daughter of Jairus (Mark
5:37)
6.
Confession of Peter (Mark
8:29)
7.
Denial by Peter of Jesus' death (Mark 8:32-33)
8.
Peter climbs Mount of Transfiguration with Jesus and Peter proposes to
build 3 tabernacles (Mark 9:2-13)
9.
Peter answered Jesus, "We have left everything"
(Mark 10:28)
10.
Peter notes that the cursed fig tree is dry (Mark
11:21)
11.
Peter asks, "When will this happen?" (Mark 13:3-4)
12.
Peter says he will not depart from Jesus (Mark 14:29, 31)
13.
Peter accompanies Jesus to Gethsemane (Mark 14:33)
14.
Peter was sleeping in Gethsemane (Mark 14:37)
15.
The ear of the servant of the high priest is cut (Mark 14:47)
16.
Peter follows Jesus away to the high
priest (Mark 14:54)
17.
Peter denies Jesus three times (Mark 14:66-72)
18.
Angel sends a greeting to the disciples and Peter
(Mark 16:7)
Mark may be the young man who fled without clothes during the arrest of Jesus. (Mark 14:51-52) Amos 2:16 states that a frightened young man will flee away naked in that day. This "young fearful one" is the same word used for the young Mark.
Date:
The date the gospel was written is likely between 50 and 55. This makes Mark the second Gospel to be written after Matthew.
Mark is writing to Gentiles in Rome. They have no Jewish background; hence, no references (in Mark) to the Old Testament as in the case of Matthew. The Latin culture is more focused on action, therefore in his argument Mark focuses on the actions of Jesus and less on His speech.
Topic:
According to Rico Tice, pastor of evangelism, All Souls, London, Mark presents three issues that can be seen in all themes. These themes are:
- The identity of Jesus
- The mission of Jesus
- The call of Jesus
The presentation of the Messiah (Mark 1:1-15)
Mark indicates that his conception of the gospel is taken from Isaiah. The description of the Messiah comes from Isaiah. One has to have a fair understanding of Isaiah to understand Mark.
What would happen in the Messianic age? First, make a link to the book of Isaiah and the coming of the Messianic era. Isaiah indicates that there will be a new exodus, a new path, a new compound people from all nations. Mark deals with this issue in the beginning of his gospel. The "good news" was first mentioned in Isaiah 52:7 and Mark connected this with the Messianic era.
This relationship with Isaiah (Is. 40:1-11) continues in the preaching of John the Baptist. "Prepare in the wilderness the way of the Lord, make his paths straight" (Mark 1:3). John appears as the new Elijah (Malachi 4:5 cf. Mark 9:9-13) to baptize Jesus. In this baptism a voice from heaven said, "You are my beloved son" (Psalm 2:7 indicates that Jesus is the Son of David, see also Genesis 22:2) and "in whom My soul delights" (Isaiah 42: 1 indicated the Servant of the Lord). Thus Jesus is identified as the Messiah.
Jesus assumes the role of Israel through water (baptism and the Red Sea) and the wilderness where he is cared for by angels. There He is tempted like the Israelites in the desert. (Matthew also captures this relationship quoting Hosea 11:1 "Out of Egypt I called My Son.")
Isaiah says, "Oh, that You would rend the heavens and come down!” (Isaiah 64:1) Mark says that Jesus has rent the heavens and has come down. "The heavens were opened" is "ripped" in Greek. Jesus is God himself who has rent the heavens and come down.
Jesus begins his preaching, after John is imprisoned, with the announcement that "the time is fulfilled" and the Kingdom of God is present. (Mark 1:14-15) Jesus is saying that the Old Testament prophecies were being fulfilled and the messianic era was beginning. This kingdom is connected with the messianic prophecies era (Kingdom of God) of the Old Testament.
The identification of Jesus (Mark 1:16 to 8:30)
Mark uses several methods to identify Jesus as the Messiah.
First, Jesus does miracles pointing to His divinity while at the same time fulfilling the prophecies of Isaiah. Mark presents Jesus doing what Isaiah had prophesied in Isaiah 61, showing the identity of Jesus as the Messiah. In this context Jesus heals the sick (Mark 1:29-34, 2:1-11, 3:1-6), the lepers (Mark 1:40-45), the blind (Mark 8:22-26), the possessed (Mark 1:21-28, 3:20-30, 5:1-20), forgives sins thus causing opposition (Mark 2:1-11), and heals on the Sabbath (Mark 3:1-6) causing His rejection by the religious rulers.
Opposition as a principle of Jesus’ mission (Mark 1:27-35)
Not everyone saw the mission of Jesus in a positive light. Some began to murmur from the beginning of his ministry (Mark 1:27-28). The second complaint was that it was blasphemy (Mark 2:6-7). Then they complained that He was associating with sinners (Mark 2:13-17), he was not fasting (Mark 2:18-22), that He was breaking the law (Mark 2:24), and did not respect the Sabbath (Mark 3:1-6). Jesus challenged many traditions of the people. Those who opposed Jesus also included his own family. (Mark 3:31-35)
Amidst all these activities Jesus named 12 Apostles. The 12 apostles are parallel to the 12 patriarchs. This is the beginning of a new people of God from all nations as was promised to Abraham (Genesis 12:1-3).
Jesus also tried to put his ministry in perspective. The disciples saw that his ministry was moving from more to less, i.e. it was very popular in the beginning and opposition to His person and teaching grew. To achieve His goal, He taught in parables and His disciples began to understand as Jesus recounted several parables. These parables showed that Jesus was sowing and the result was certain though immediate results (Mark 4:1-32) were not seen.
The teaching of Jesus (Mark 4:33-34)
Mark noted the teaching of Jesus, "... spoke the word to them, as they could hear" (Mark 4: 33-34).
Sovereignty of Jesus (Mark 4:35 to 5:43) Jesus shows His sovereignty over nature (Mark 4:35-41), the devil (Mark 5:1-20), sickness (Mark 5: 25-34), and death (Mark 5:21-24; 35-43). Nothing is beyond His control.
Jesus returns to his people (Mark 6:1-6)
Jesus returns to his village to find that they doubted him. They saw that Jesus did miraculous works and made claims to divinity but they also saw that He had brothers, sisters and a mother so, “…they were offended at Him” (Mark 6:2-3). Jesus answered them, "A prophet is not without honor except in his own country" (Mark 6:4).
Jesus sends out the twelve (Mark 6:7-12)
Jesus always has in mind the great vision that his gospel would reach around the world. In preparation for this mission, He sent the twelve on a similar mission albeit on a smaller scale. He delegated authority and made sure His disciples were dependent on those who received their message. He also indicates that they should not stay in places where they were rejected.
The death of John the Baptist (Mark 6:14-29)
Herod was king in this region and was known for his violent temperament. He was also a king whose power had gone to his head and he thought he could do as he pleased. However, Herod was an immoral person. He had joined with the wife of his brother. John the Baptist had preached against this adulterous affair. This annoyed Herod’s wife with the result that John was imprisoned.
The death of John the Baptist was the prize for the dancing daughter of the adulteress. Thus we see the value of walking carefully while living in a sinful society.
Two parallel sections 6:31 to 7:36 and 8:1 to 30
A. Jesus feeds the 5,000 (Mark 6:31-44)
This section is parallel to John 6. Jesus is the bread that comes down from heaven. Thus He is presented as the second Moses.
B. Crossing the Sea and back to land (Mark 6:45-56)
C. Conflict with the Pharisees (Mark 7:1-18)
Two quotes from Isaiah: “This people honor me with their lips,
but their heart is far from me” (Mark 7:6, Isaiah 29:13).
"But in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the precepts of men" (Mark 7:7, Isaiah 29:13).
D. Talk about bread (Mark 7:14-23)
This is no contaminated food. All you can eat. Jesus said, "There is nothing outside a man which by going into him can defile him, but what comes from the inside of a man is what defiles him" (Mark 7:15).
Jesus leaves the Jewish opposition territories to avoid those who seek His life. He goes north to Gentile territory.
Healing (Mark 7:24-36)
The Syro-Phoenician woman (Mark 7:24-30)
A deaf and dumb man (Mark 7:31-37)
A. Jesus Feeds the 4000 (Mark 8:1-9)
The disciples did not understand Jesus.
B. Crossing the Sea and back to land (Mark 8:10)
C. Conflict with the Pharisees (Mark 8:11-13)
D. Talk about bread (Mark 8:14-21)
E. Healing (Mark 8:22-26)
Conclusion: The confession of Peter (Mark 8:27-30)
This confession of Peter is the conclusion of the identity of Jesus. The disciples realize that Jesus is the Christ. Of course, this knowledge is a gift of God, as the other witnesses of Jesus' ministry had not noticed.
End of the first part of Mark
In the second part of Mark the tone changes completely. Jesus emphasizes much that He will die and resurrect. The disciples did not believe him. Jesus also develops the theme of them being His disciples, His followers, or Christians.
Jesus declares His intention to die (Mark 8:31-33)
Jesus' response to Peter's confession is that He is going to suffer, die and rise. Peter immediately denies that this will happen. His intent to die is repeated by Jesus three times (Mark 8:31-33, 9:30-32 and 9:32-34). Each repetition is more comprehensive than the last. From this time on Jesus turns to go to Jerusalem to die.
Jesus explains what they have to do as His disciples (Mark 8:34-9)
Jesus declares that he would die and then makes the first explanation of what it means to be His disciple. Jesus tells his disciples that they will have to follow the same path he is taking. The requirements of Jesus to be a disciple or be a Christian are: 1) Deny himself, 2) Take up your cross and, 3) Taking up your cross means that we have to offer our lives to Him, up to and including death. Whatever happens, follow Jesus. Being a disciple of Jesus is the same as being a Christian (see Matthew 28:16-20). Making disciples is the equivalent of evangelizing.
The Discipleship: Lesson 1 (Mark 8:34 to 9:22)
The episodes that follow emphasize different aspects of what it means to be a disciple. First, on the mount of transfiguration, a voice from heaven confirms that Jesus is the prophet who was to come (Deuteronomy 18:15), and the disciples must listen to him.
Note: John the Baptist came in the spirit of Elijah. We are not expecting another Elias (Elijah).
The second event was the expulsion of a difficult demon. The disciples could not cast out the demon. Apparently they thought it was by using their own power, not realizing that it was only the power of God. "Trusting in the power of God in the sense that we imagine or have this power in our control as our provision is the same as unbelief: for this is to rely on ourselves instead of trusting God." (CEB Cranfield, Mark, Cambridge)
The second announcement of the death of Jesus and its lesson for the disciples (Mark 9:30 to 10:31)
Jesus foretells his death and the disciples begin discussing their place in the kingdom of God. They had not the slightest idea what Jesus was talking about. He then explains that being a servant is more important than being the boss.
We must not prevent others from preaching the gospel. We should not cause anyone to fall into sin.
Being servants is the opposite of the rich young man who thought himself so good but had no humility and loved this world’s goods more than Jesus.
Third announcement of the death of Jesus and its lessons for the disciples (Mark 10:32-45)
Each of these three announcements introduces wide changes and more details of the death of Jesus. The signs indicate that Jesus knew what was going to happen when he got to Jerusalem.
After the third announcement the disciples were arguing about their place in the Kingdom. Jesus indicates their importance in the kingdom was not in service and authority but in service and sacrifice.
"But among you it is not so; any of you who wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first shall be the servant of all” (Mark 10:43-44).
At the end of the answer to the disciples about their importance, Jesus clarifies His mission.
"For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve and to give His life a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45).
This clarification of the book of Mark is that Jesus' mission is to die for the sins of men (Mark 10:44-45 see Isaiah 53). This is like going to serve men. The disciples must follow Jesus and become servants of others. This is the pattern for His disciples.
Jesus is going to Jerusalem to die. He knew it would happen.
Jesus heals blind Bartimaeus (Mark 10:46-52)
Bartimaeus is contrasted with the rich young man. Examine the text for all contrasts. Bartimaeus, who could not see, is healed by Jesus and accompanies Him to Jerusalem.
The triumphal entry (Mark 11:1-11)
Jesus acts the role of Messianic conqueror who comes in peace (on a donkey). When Jesus asks for a colt, He is fulfilling the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9-10:
“Rejoice
greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout, O daughter of Jerusalem!
Your king comes to you, righteous and having salvation, lowly, and riding on a
donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey. Destroy the chariot from Ephraim and the horse
from Jerusalem, and the battle bow will be destroyed.
He will speak peace to the nations, and His dominion shall be from sea to sea
and from the River to the ends of the earth.”
People respond singing Psalm 118:25-26, “We pray, O Lord, save us now (Hosanna), we pray, O Lord. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. From the house of the Lord we bless you.” We should note that all of Psalm 118 is Messianic.
The barren fig tree (Mark 11:12-14 and 11:20-26)
Jesus is hungry and goes to a fig tree that has no fruit. He curses the tree. This is a symbolic action whereby the fig tree represents Israel (Jeremiah 8:13; 29:15-20, Hosea 9:10; Joel 1:7, Micah 7:1-7). This means that Jesus has pronounced a curse on Israel by saying, "May no man eat fruit of thee ever again." (Mark 11:14)
On the way to Jerusalem the next day, they saw the fig tree withered at its roots. Jesus tells his disciples that their prayers may have the same power as His. But they must forgive people their sins against them so that God may forgive the disciple’s sins. This indicates that the incident with the fig tree is also talking about people.
Jesus in the Temple (Mark 11:15-19)
After the incident of the fig tree, Jesus goes to the temple to find that the money changers are hard at work buying and selling. This provokes the wrath of Jesus. He shows his anger at the situation by overturning their tables and driving men and animals from the temple courts.
”Is it not written, 'My house shall be called a house of prayer for all nations (Isaiah 56:7)? But you have made it a den of thieves’” (Jeremiah 7:11).
Jesus is leaving the temple as a house of God: “See! Your house is left to you desolate (Luke 13:35). In Isaiah the purpose of the temple was to be a place where all nations could come to worship God. This function was impossible before the cross. Jesus paved the way (temple) for all nations to come to God.
People respond singing Psalm 118:25-26, “We pray, O Lord, save us now (Hosanna), we pray, O Lord. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. From the house of the Lord we bless you.” We should note that all of Psalm 118 is Messianic.
The barren fig tree (Mark 11:12-14 and 11:20-26)
Jesus is hungry and goes to a fig tree that has no fruit. He curses the tree. This is a symbolic action whereby the fig tree represents Israel (Jeremiah 8:13; 29:15-20, Hosea 9:10; Joel 1:7, Micah 7:1-7). This means that Jesus has pronounced a curse on Israel by saying, "May no man eat fruit of thee ever again." (Mark 11:14)
On the way to Jerusalem the next day, they saw the fig tree withered at its roots. Jesus tells his disciples that their prayers may have the same power as His. But they must forgive people their sins against them so that God may forgive the disciple’s sins. This indicates that the incident with the fig tree is also talking about people.
Jesus in the Temple (Mark 11:15-19)
After the incident of the fig tree, Jesus goes to the temple to find that the money changers are hard at work buying and selling. This provokes the wrath of Jesus. He shows his anger at the situation by overturning their tables and driving men and animals from the temple courts.
”Is it not written, 'My house shall be called a house of prayer for all nations (Isaiah 56:7)? But you have made it a den of thieves’” (Jeremiah 7:11).
Jesus is leaving the temple as a house of God: “See! Your house is left to you desolate (Luke 13:35). In Isaiah the purpose of the temple was to be a place where all nations could come to worship God. This function was impossible before the cross. Jesus paved the way (temple) for all nations to come to God.
They doubt the authority of Jesus (Mark 11:27-33)
"By what authority are You doing these things, or who gave You this authority to do these things?" (Mark 11:28). Jesus responds with a question about whether John the Baptist was from God or not. The religious rulers could not answer Jesus’ question regarding John so neither does He answer them.
Jesus discloses the intention of killing him (Mark 12:1-12)
By telling the parable of Isaiah 5:1-7, Jesus reveals the intentions of the authorities to kill Him. When Jesus exposed their intentions, they seek to arrest Him.
Three attacks on Jesus (Mark 12:13-34)
The political attack: I have to pay taxes?
Religious attack: In the resurrection with whom will I be married?
The legal attack: What is the greatest commandment?
Three attacks on Jesus by the Jewish authorities (Mark 12:35-44)
How is the Lord the Son of David?
Who serves the scribes?
Who gives (love) to God; the widow who gives two coins or the rich men who give much of what they have left?
Discourse on the Destruction of the Temple (Mark 13:1-37)
Jesus proclaims the destruction of the temple. This announcement led to the question, when will these things be? The rest of the chapter is a discourse that answers this question. It is very easy to jump from the original context and make the question refer to the end of the world. But this was not the question. Jesus Himself answers the question by saying, "This generation shall not pass till all these things happen" (see Mark 13:30 Acts 1:6). Also Mark 13:26 says Jesus will come in the clouds with great power and glory, Acts 1:9-11:
"A cloud received Him and He was hidden from their eyes. As Jesus ascended, while they looked steadfastly toward heaven, there appeared two men in white robes who said, "Men of Galilee, why are looking at the sky? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw Him go into heaven” (Acts 1:9-11).
"By what authority are You doing these things, or who gave You this authority to do these things?" (Mark 11:28). Jesus responds with a question about whether John the Baptist was from God or not. The religious rulers could not answer Jesus’ question regarding John so neither does He answer them.
Jesus discloses the intention of killing him (Mark 12:1-12)
By telling the parable of Isaiah 5:1-7, Jesus reveals the intentions of the authorities to kill Him. When Jesus exposed their intentions, they seek to arrest Him.
Three attacks on Jesus (Mark 12:13-34)
The political attack: I have to pay taxes?
Religious attack: In the resurrection with whom will I be married?
The legal attack: What is the greatest commandment?
Three attacks on Jesus by the Jewish authorities (Mark 12:35-44)
How is the Lord the Son of David?
Who serves the scribes?
Who gives (love) to God; the widow who gives two coins or the rich men who give much of what they have left?
Discourse on the Destruction of the Temple (Mark 13:1-37)
Jesus proclaims the destruction of the temple. This announcement led to the question, when will these things be? The rest of the chapter is a discourse that answers this question. It is very easy to jump from the original context and make the question refer to the end of the world. But this was not the question. Jesus Himself answers the question by saying, "This generation shall not pass till all these things happen" (see Mark 13:30 Acts 1:6). Also Mark 13:26 says Jesus will come in the clouds with great power and glory, Acts 1:9-11:
"A cloud received Him and He was hidden from their eyes. As Jesus ascended, while they looked steadfastly toward heaven, there appeared two men in white robes who said, "Men of Galilee, why are looking at the sky? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw Him go into heaven” (Acts 1:9-11).
The passion of Jesus (Mark 14-16) Mark emphasizes the historical fact of death and resurrection. The other world religions are not based on historical facts. Paul makes the point: "If there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised, and if Christ has not risen, your faith is vain and you are still in your sins. If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men the most pitiable” (1 Cor. 15:12-19).
Preparations for the Passover (Mark 14:1-42) The first preparation is the plot to kill Jesus. The enemies of Jesus considered His impossible situation. They did not want the people to turn against them. Jesus is anointed in preparation for his death. Some complained about the waste of money in this act, but Jesus says this, "... she has anointed my body for burial" (Mark 14:8). Judas betrays Jesus. When the Jewish authorities heard that a disciple would betray Jesus, they offered him money. Jesus prepares his disciples for the Passover. Instructions were given to celebrate Easter. Jesus identifies the traitor as nobody knew who was going to betray them to the authorities. Jesus also indicates that it would be better if this man had not been born. Jesus instituted the Lord's Supper. Taking the words of Jeremiah, Jesus says this is, "My blood of the New Covenant", (Jeremiah 31:30-37) indicating that a new relationship was established between God and man. His blood is shed for "many" (Mark 14:24). Jesus goes to Gethsemane to surrender to authorities. His words indicate that he knew that his death was next.
Arrest of Jesus (Mark 14:43-14:72) Jesus
asks why he was treated like a thief when he has been in the Temple teaching
every day. It could be that the author of this gospel was present at the
arrest. It mentions that there is a young unnamed man who flees the scene
without clothes. Interestingly there is a prophecy which indicates that this
would happen (Amos 2.16).
Trial of Jesus The story of the Gospels always makes it clear that Jesus
was falsely accused. The witnesses were false. The first is a preliminary trial
before the Jewish authorities. They sought to make their case first, then take
Jesus to the Roman authorities. The Jews had limited authority which did not
include the right to capital punishment. Pilate put the question to the people;
Jesus, or Barrabas? They chose a murderer, Barrabas, instead of Jesus. Soldiers
mock Jesus.
The crucifixion and burial of Jesus (Mark 14:22-41) Jesus' death
describes the incredible brutality of the event. Crucifixion is one of the most painful ways
to die. One purpose of the story is to
show that Jesus died. Jesús had to day for there to be a resurrección.
Resurrection (Mark 16:1-8)
Bibliography
- David Alan Black, Why Four Gospels?, Kregel, 2001.
- CEB Cranfield, Mark, Cambridge.
- Frank Thielman, Theology of the New Testament, Life.
Walter Wessel, Gospel of Mark, Life.
"Marcos" in DA Carson, et. al., New Bible Commentary XXI Century, www.e-sword.net.
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