The Gospel According to
Mark An Inductive Bible Study
Sunergos Bible Studies Jan Wells
Copyright 2004 by Jan Wells The Gospel According to Mark - An Inductive Bible Study by Jan Wells Printed in the United States of America ISBN 1-594676-65-8 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means – electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise – without the prior written permission of the publisher and copyright owners. Acknowledgments Unless otherwise indicated or if marked (ISV) Scripture quotations are taken from: The Holy Bible: International Standard Version®, ISV®. Copyright © 1996-2003 by The ISV Foundation of Yorba Linda, CA. Used by permission of Davidson Press, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED UNDER INTERNATIONAL AND PAN-AMERICAN COPYRIGHT CONVENTIONS. Scripture quotations marked (NASB) are taken from The New American Standard Bible®, NASB® Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. (www.Lockman.org) Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (KJV) are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, KING JAMES ® VERSION. KJV is public domain and permissions for use are not necessary. Word studies are taken from Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible as well as other reference sources. The Hebrew and Greek words given in the left column of the word study are the lexical form of the word, followed by actual word found in an Interlinear Bible. When sources other than the Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance are used in the center column of the word study they are in italic print. A complete list of the references used for this study is found in the Bibliography. Woodcut illustrations by Julius Schnoor von Carolsfeld were originally printed in “Das Buch der Bücher in Bilden.” They were scanned by Publications for Latin America, WELS.
Cover picture by Agnolo Bronzino St Mark; c. 1525; oil on wood Cappella Capponi, Santa Felicita, Florence Sunergos Bible Studies 2485 Morse Road SEBASTOPOL, CA 95472 707.829.2956 To order additional copies, www.SunergosBible.org
1/15/2008
Table of Contents Page Lesson 1 – Overview of The Gospel According to Mark........................................................5 Lesson 2 – Overview of The Gospel According to Mark......................................................13 Lesson 3 – John Mark and Mark 1.......................................................................................19 Lesson 4 – Mark 1:1-22.......................................................................................................27 Lesson 5 – Mark 1:23-45, Mark 1 Review...........................................................................41 Lesson 6 – Mark 2...............................................................................................................51 Lesson 7 – Mark 2 Review, Mark 3:1-27.............................................................................63 Lesson 8 – Mark 3:28-35, Mark 3 Review, Mark 4..............................................................73 Lesson 9 – Mark 4, Mark 5 .................................................................................................87 Lesson 10 – Mark 5............................................................................................................. 97 Lesson 11 – Mark 6........................................................................................................... 107 Lesson 12 – Mark 7........................................................................................................... 119 Lesson 13 – Mark 8........................................................................................................... 127 Lesson 14 – Mark 9........................................................................................................... 137 Lesson 15 – Mark 10......................................................................................................... 149 Lesson 16 – Mark 11......................................................................................................... 161 Lesson 17 – Mark 12......................................................................................................... 171 Lesson 18 – Mark 13......................................................................................................... 183 Lesson 19 – Mark 14......................................................................................................... 193 Lesson 20 – Mark 15......................................................................................................... 207 Lesson 21 – Mark 16......................................................................................................... 217 Lesson 22 – The Gospel According to Mark Review ......................................................... 227 Appendix .......................................................................................................................... 231 Scripture Worksheets ........................................................................................................ 233 Inductive Study Methodology ........................................................................................... 301 Evidence of Jesus Christ in The Gospel According to Mark............................................... 307 Map of Israel..................................................................................................................... 311 The Essene Community and John the Baptist .................................................................... 313 Marriage, Adultery, and Divorce....................................................................................... 317 Marriage Principles ........................................................................................................... 321 “The Shema”..................................................................................................................... 323 People’s Responses to Jesus Christ in The Gospel According to Mark............................... 325 Word Study Index ............................................................................................................. 333 Bibliography ..................................................................................................................... 337 Sunergos Bible Studies ..................................................................................................... 339 Book Summary ................................................................................................................. 340 Author Profile ................................................................................................................... 340
I have written this Bible study that it might strengthen and encourage believers who are fellow workers, translated from the word sunergos in the New Testament Greek. We are to glorify God in all that we do, and diligent study of His word will equip us to carry out God’s plan in our life and in His church so that we might truly enjoy Him forever. Join with me that we might be fellow workers, allowing God’s word to equip us. In His Love,
Jan Jan Wells, M.A. Sebastopol, CA 95472 707.829.2956 email:
[email protected] website: www.sunergosbible.org And we sent Timothy, our brother and God’s fellow worker (sunergo), in the gospel of Christ, to strengthen and encourage you as to your faith. 1 Thessalonians 3:2
I have found that there are some prayers that I can voice that God will always answer. One is asking God to increase my desire to spend time with Him, asking Him that my spirit would long to commune with Him in the pages of His word. If you surrender your feeling of “you have to” study God’s word, and instead ask God to help “you want to” spend time with Him, you will be delighted and amazed at the difference in your attitude toward the spiritual discipline of Bible study. Soli Deo Gloria (to God alone be the glory)!
This study is dedicated to the professors God has used to help me study the New Testament. Dr. David Alan Black, Dr. Rudy Gonzalez, Dr. Clayton Harrop, Dr. Richard Melick, and Dr. Len Wallmark
Lesson 1
Lesson 1 – Overview of The Gospel According to Mark Introduction In the fourth century, the leaders of the Christian church decided to include four different Gospels, by four different authors, in the New Testament “canon of Scripture.” As you study The Gospel According to Mark, you will discover what makes Mark’s Gospel distinctive. Many have spent considerable effort comparing the message and style of the four Gospels. About ninety three percent of the material found in Mark is also covered in the Gospels written by Matthew and Luke. These three have come to be known as the “Synoptic Gospels” because they have a similar view of the life of Christ. As you go through this indepth study of Mark’s Gospel, you will also study portions of the Gospel’s of Matthew, Luke, and John to gain insight into the message of the gospel. My prayer is that as you proceed through this inductive study of The Gospel According to Mark, you might also discover the timeless truths that have convicted and inspired people of all ages for centuries. Mark’s Gospel will challenge you to examine your understanding of the message of the gospel, your own faith, and your commitment to the Lord. The lessons will seek to equip you to be stronger and more mature in your walk with the Lord Jesus Christ. The lessons are also designed to help you grow closer to the Lord. This inductive study will use the Bible as the primary source of information. The inductive method will be explained throughout the lessons, as well as in a section of the Appendix called Inductive Bible Study Methodology. To study inductively involves four steps. First you will be asked questions to help you carefully observe the text as you “read with a purpose.” The next step involves careful and accurate interpretation of the Scriptures being studied, that you might determine eternal principles from the text. The last step is to apply these Scriptures to the circumstances of your life. It is so important to be “diligent” and “handle accurately the word of truth.” It is essential that you believe that “all Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness,” as the apostle Paul declared in 2 Timothy 3:16. The lessons of this study will ask you to recognize God’s eternal perspective from Mark’s Gospel. Part of my way of teaching is to not draw conclusions for you, but to allow you to dig the conclusions out of Scripture for yourself. That is part of the inductive method of study. On the other hand, it would be wrong to say that you should not read commentaries written by learned Bible scholars because you only want to study from the Bible. Commentaries offer linguistic and historical information that help believers with their study of Scripture. I believe that when you trust the Holy Spirit you can discover truth by handling accurately the word and observing the text before you. What a blessing to study and come to a place where you sit in awe of God and His holy word after you have seen for yourself what God longs for you to see. As God’s precious and beloved child, you are promised that the Holy Spirit will help you understand Scripture. As a believer you have the same indwelling Holy Spirit to teach and guide you in God’s truth. When you feel frustrated or hear a voice telling you, “You cannot do this study,” recognize that that thought is not coming from God. Any follower of Christ can allow their flesh to defeat them. All Christians must recognize that Satan tries to keep believers from spending time with the Lord, from studying God’s word, and from making God’s truth a part of each decision they make. Dr. M. Robert Mulholland wrote a very simple definition to describe the phrase “spiritual formation” saying that the Christian is to be “in the process of being conformed to the image of Christ for the sake of others.” Would you consider making that a goal for your 5
Lesson 1 life as you move through the study of The Gospel According to Mark? Join me as I have committed to daily allow God’s word to lead and equip me in this way. Studying Mark’s Gospel will help you if your desire is to be “conformed to the image of Christ for the sake of others.” I am so eager to study the life of Jesus and to know Him better through this time in the word. One of the best ways to study the spiritual disciplines that bring growth to one’s life is to see what Jesus modeled through His life. Over the centuries, many have studied the spiritual disciplines and look at these patterns for life in following way. • The “inward disciplines” of meditation, prayer, fasting, and Bible study. • The “outward disciplines” of simplicity, solitude, submission, and service. • The “corporate disciplines” of confession, worship, guidance, and celebration. As you move through the study, you will also be challenged to make a commitment to memorize some of the Scripture you will be examining! It is possible for all believers to treasure God’s word in their heart and mind in this way. I urge you to not fall into the trap of thinking that this is too difficult, because you can trust that God will use His holy word to minister to your spirit. As Winston Churchill counseled the English people during the devastation of World War II, “Never give up! Never give up! Never give up!” We must persevere in the spiritual battle we face daily. You can count on the fact that Scripture memorization will help you to be stronger in your own faith, help to keep you from sin, and equip you to share your faith with others. One very valuable class I had in seminary was Biblical Hermeneutics, looking at different dimensions involved in the accurate interpretation of the Bible. As part of this study, I will incorporate some aspects of hermeneutics that have been used by the Christian church as it approaches Scripture. Please stop and ask God what your own personal goals will be for studying The Gospel According to Mark. I long to know my Savior in a more intimate way, and as a teacher I want to see more clearly how Jesus taught. Through this study I am praying that I will be better equipped for God’s calling upon my life. Join me in this study, and be prepared for the living and active word of God to change your life! Please think about why you have decided to take this study of The Gospel According to Mark, and write out your goals here before you proceed.
Day 1 – Mark 1-3 1. Any time you approach the holy word of God, please establish the pattern of opening your time in prayer. Humbly come before the Lord God Almighty asking Him to use His word to bring you to a deeper understanding of who He is and to help you see what He has done for you. Ask God to draw you closer to Him and help you follow after His will as He leads. You will be reminded of this at the beginning of each day. 6
Lesson 1 The lesson will always begin with observation questions that will observe the text and the theme being covered in the day’s lesson. One way to approach the daily study would be to answer the observation questions that are introduced with a bold dot in Question 1, and then move to the last question (or questions) of the day that will be in a simple rectangular box. (This has been designed to take between twelve and twenty minutes.) Another option for the study is to complete some or all of the remaining questions in between Question 1 and the questions in the rectangular box, which might take from thirty minutes to one hour. This format allows some flexibility within the commitment of completing the study. Generally the first week of an inductive study will take longer to complete than the rest of the lessons, because the overview lesson involves foundational questions requiring you to read through the book several times. Since Mark’s Gospel is sixteen chapters, the overview lesson will be divided into two weeks. • Turn to the Scripture Worksheets that are located in the Appendix. These are the text of Mark’s Gospel, with no marginal notes, no introductory helps, no chapter headings, no footnotes, no paragraph titles, and no other helps as you might find in many Bibles. When the Old Testament is quoted, the text is indented. These Scripture Worksheets are the foundation of an inductive study, and do not include the themes of each paragraph or explanations of the book in the form of an introduction. When you hold off reading someone else’s comments, you will gain for yourself insight through your own study of the word. At the end of the study of each chapter, you might go to a commentary, consulting this resource for additional insight into the passage. Some commentaries offer historical and cultural information not available through the text itself. Several commentaries are listed in the Bibliography at the end of the Appendix. I resist suggesting a commentary that is not written by someone who considers the Bible to be the inspired, inerrant word of God. This is reflected in the list of references in the Bibliography. •
There are sixteen chapters in Mark’s Gospel, and you will spend each of the next five days reading the chapters and responding to each chapter by jotting down your first impression of the chapter. Another option is to read the chapter and then record two truths that spoke out to you from each chapter. Remember: before you open the word, open your time with prayer. Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
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Lesson 1 2. The spiritual discipline of meditation was explained in the Old Testament and then modeled by Jesus Christ. In Psalm 119:97 the psalmist David said that he loved God’s law, and that it was his meditation all the day. In Psalm 119:99 David said that he had more insight than all of his teachers because God’s testimonies were his meditation. Meditation involves quiet thought and reflection. Meditation for a Christian involves contemplating God and His truths as revealed through Scripture. Meditation has always been considered an exercise of devotion before the Lord. In the early church, some religious “orders” began the practice of spending hours in meditation, many secluding themselves from worldly contact. God made people different. For some, practicing the spiritual discipline of meditation comes more easily. For example, when some individuals are stressed, spending time alone with God restores and energizes them. Others have the personality that loves spending time with people, and this personal interaction energizes them. For this type of person, cultivating the spiritual discipline of quiet meditation will not be as comfortable. No matter the type of person you are, all should adopt this spiritual discipline because it is very worthwhile. The discipline of meditation involves getting away from people and spending time with the Lord God. Many days after you finish the last section of a lesson, you will be asked to stop and think about what you have learned and meditate on what you are to do with this information. At the end of each of the first five days of the study, consider your personal response to the chapters by meditating on what you have read from Mark’s Gospel. Your response might by a prayer to God expressing your praise or thanksgiving to Him. My personal response to Mark 1-3:
Day 2 – Mark 4-6 1. In today’s lesson you will read Mark 4-6 and respond with your first impression of each chapter, or write down several thoughts that come to your mind from your reading. Open by praying that what you read today would be a source of nourishment for your spirit. Chapter 4
Chapter 5
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Lesson 1 Chapter 6
2. This week you will continue to look for evidence of the importance of meditation in Scripture. Please close by reading Joshua 1:1-9 to see God’s perspective on meditation. What did God ask of Joshua concerning this?
What did God promise to Joshua in verse 8?
Close your time today by meditating on the Scripture you have studied and then consider your response to Mark 4-6. My personal response to Mark 4-6:
Day 3 – Mark 7-9 1. Find a comfortable place to sit and read Mark 7-9. Each lesson this week will be the same, so once again, write out your first impression of each chapter, or write down several truths that spoke to you personally. Prayerfully approach this Scripture, trusting the Lord with what He will do with His holy word. Chapter 7
Chapter 8
9
Lesson 1 Chapter 9
2. Close your time today by reading Psalm 1, noticing what was said about meditation in this psalm. How is the person who meditates described?
Would this be said about you? What is your personal response to Mark 7-9?
Day 4 – Mark 10-12 1. As you move ahead in the reading of Mark’s Gospel, open in prayer with a grateful heart that you can study God’s word and grow in your faith. Continue to record your first impression of these three chapters, or write out several truths that caused you to think about a circumstance in your own life. Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
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Lesson 1 2. Close your time today by reading Psalm 63 to see what is taught about meditation. Allow the words of this Psalm to speak to your own heart. Close by meditating on what you read in Mark 10-12, and then write out your personal response to these chapters.
Day 5 – Mark 13-16 1. In today’s lesson you will finish your reading of Mark’s Gospel. Ask God to help you see the significance of the truths that are presented here. As you read, continually bow before the Lord seeking His heart and mind. Chapter 13
Chapter 14
Chapter 15
Chapter 16
2. In Psalm 77:11-15 another perspective is shared about the role of meditation. Read these verses and then consider what difference these make in your own life. Close your time today by writing out your personal response to Mark 13-16. Answer on the next page.
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Lesson 1
Zechariah: "His Name Is John"
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Lesson 2
Lesson 2 – Overview of The Gospel According to Mark Introduction You have read through Mark’s Gospel in the first week and you will again this week as the introduction to the book continues. My prayer is that you will be blessed by your time in the word. Remember to open your time in the word each day by praying that God would encourage your spirit as you spend time with Him in His holy word. Do not ever allow the study of the Bible to become an academic exercise. Allow the Lord to use His holy word to fill your spirit that you might be strengthened according to His glorious might. Remember to ask the Lord to increase your desire to be in the word, that you might desire to spend time with Him as you continue. God loves His children to commune with Him through the truth of His word. Do not miss the precious opportunity of coming into His presence in His word. Another way of growing in your faith is to make a commitment to hide God’s word in your heart. Ask God to help you memorize His word, and then trust Him with how He will use His word that you have treasured in this way. When you have memorized Scripture, you can meditate on its truth any time of the day, whether you have your Bible with you or not.
Days 1-4 – The “Key Words” God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit 1. Part of studying the Bible inductively is to look for all of the key words that are repeated and essential in the text. In the next four days you will begin to look at three of the key words in Mark’s Gospel. When key words are removed they leave the text without clear meaning. Key words are essential to the text, because they reveal the message of the text, and form the basis for studying specific doctrinal truths. Keep in mind that key words reveal the subject of a passage, and these subjects then reveal the themes, to help you see why the book was written. For this part of the lesson, you will only look for Mark’s use of the words God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. • When an author of any Scripture mentions God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit, as well as any words representing these three, these are always considered key words. Mark these key words in a consistent way. I mark any reference to God with a red triangle through the word. Using the same red pencil, I place a symbol of a cross through each reference to Jesus. When the word Lord is used I place a small red crown over the word. I designate any references to the Holy Spirit with a wiggly red “cloud” surrounding the word. In addition to marking the words God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit, also look for the words that were used to represent these three. For example, Scripture uses the words Creator, Savior, or the Comforter as designations for God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. You would mark these words in the same way. Also take the time to distinguish between the pronouns that were used to represent God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. In the English language when a sentence declares something about God followed by information about Christ Jesus, when the word He, Him, or His follows, it would be a reference to Christ who was mentioned secondly, rather than a reference to the Father God. When you mark the text in this way it will help you differentiate truths about God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit.
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Lesson 2 This part of the lesson will take some time, please do not just mark the words, but as you do the marking, think about what is being declared about God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit in The Gospel According to Mark and let these truths provide nourishment to your spirit and bring courage to your heart. 2. At the end of each day of marking the key words jot down some truths that ministered to your spirit. God
Jesus Christ
The Holy Spirit
Close by praying for these truths to penetrate your spirit and make a difference in your response to the challenges and problems that come into your life.
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Lesson 2
Day 5 – Gospel Genre 1. One important dimension of hermeneutics is to determine the genre, or type of literature of a book of the Bible, because the genre influences how you interpret Scripture. Today you will study the genre (pronounced john-ruh) of Mark’s Gospel. Some of the information in this lesson was taken from a variety of sources, and will be in the form of a “commentary.” My prayer is that you will benefit from this. Open your time today by asking the Holy Spirit to illuminate God’s truth. • Mark’s Gospel helped the early church determine the full title for each of the four Gospels. Mark 1:1 began with the phrase, “This is the beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.” Leaders in the church titled each of the Gospels with the phrase, “The Gospel According to…” followed by the name of the author. You might have never noticed this “heading” before, but glance at the first page of each of the gospels in your Bible to see this. So, the complete title for Mark’s Gospel is The Gospel According to Mark. •
After reading through a book of the Bible, it is possible to know the genre of the book. After looking at the five brief descriptions below you can see the genre of Mark’s Gospel. Keep in mind that some books in the Bible combine several genres. Epistle – a letter written either to an individual or to a group of individuals Narrative – a written record of an event or a series of events Poetry – the poetry of the ancient near east rhymed in image, not in words Prophecy – a record of what is to come; events in the near future as well as the distant future Wisdom Literature – nuggets of truth to exhort with practical insight into life choices
One way to define the specific genre of the Gospels would be to say that they are historically true, biographical records that bear witness to the life of Jesus and proclaim His message of redemption. •
Now please look at how the word gospel was used by Mark. Mark the word in your Scripture Worksheets in some way. I always draw a green circle around the word. Write out what Mark taught when he used the word gospel. a. Mark 1:1 b. Mark 1:14 c. Mark 1:15 d. Mark 13:10
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Lesson 2 e. Mark 14:9 f. Mark 16:15 2. Nearly every day the lesson will study some of the specific words that were used in the passage being studied to clarify your understanding of the meaning of these words used by the author. One dimension of biblical interpretation involves the study of the words in the original language of Scripture. The Old Testament was written in Hebrew and the New Testament was written in (Koine, common) Greek. Word studies can be accomplished by the use of a variety of written sources. Some of these are called lexicons, and offer scholarly insight into the word in the original language. Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance is an excellent resource for looking at both the Old Testament Hebrew words and the New Testament Greek words. In order to save you the time of having to look up these words in reference books, the word studies will appear on a chart like the one below. Many books are available to help with word studies. When another source is used in the definition column this information is given in italics. A complete list of the references used is found in the Bibliography in the Appendix. The definition column in the middle might also give the word as it is translated in other versions of the Bible. In the first column you will find the Strong’s number and the lexical form of the word, the word before it is changed grammatically to fit its context. Under the lexical form you will see the actual word used in the text, based on its grammatical usage. Sometimes these two words will be the same, and sometimes they are different. The third line has the biblical reference of the word. Included in the third column will be some cross-references that will show you how the word was used in another passage of Scripture in a similar way. Words can have more than one meaning, and they can be defined by looking at their context. You might briefly summarize what you learn about the word from the cross-reference(s) given, or just choose to read the verse. Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
2098 euangelion euangeliou Mark 1:1
Gospel, a good message. From # 2097 euaggelion, to announce good news, evangelize, especially the gospel, declare, bring (declare, show) glad (good) tidings, preach (the gospel) Good news, to be fresh, i.e. full (rosy, figuratively, cheerful); to announce (glad news): messenger, preach, publish, shew forth, (bear, bring, carry, preach, good, tell good) tidings
Romans 1:1
1319 Hebrew basar Isaiah 61:1
1 Samuel 31:9 (Often the recently received news is of military encounters.)1
3. When you study the four Gospels you can see that each author was selective in what was written. None of the authors recorded everything that took place in Jesus’ life. Each Gospel was inspired by the Holy Spirit, and the Gospels were influenced by the perspective 1
Spiros Zodhiates, The Hebrew-Greek Key Study Bible, Chattanooga, AMG Publishers, 1990, p. 1717. 16
Lesson 2 of each of the human authors. Four different men wrote the four Gospels, so the Gospels each took a different perspective. This perspective was based on different factors, including the needs of the early church. The Gospels are also theological, with a clear message in each, pointing to Jesus as Christ the Messiah. Each of the Gospel writers had a purpose in mind and they were committed to the truth. Each of the four Gospels have been grouped into one of two classifications; they are either autoptic or synoptic. Synoptic is taken from the Greek word synopsis (which means to view together). The Synoptic Gospels are more action and story oriented. Matthew, Mark, and Luke are called the Synoptic Gospels. The word autoptic comes from the Greek word autos (meaning self) and optic (which means to view). John is considered to be an autoptic Gospel. Studying the four Gospels reveals that the only events in all four of the Gospels are the feeding of the 5000 and Christ’s death and resurrection.2 How was the word gospel (euangelion) used in the first century? In the Greek language, the prefix, (eu) simply meant good. The root of the word meant message, and was related to the Greek word for messenger, from which the English word angel was derived. The word gospel is a noun. There is also a verbal form of the word, euangelizomai, which meant to proclaim good news. The Greek people knew this word meant bringing good news, either in person or by letter. The gospel announced news of a victory or some other joyous event. In a military victory, the word was used to announce that the enemy had been defeated. Words like salvation or liberation were often used in combination with the word euangelizomai.3 Most biblical scholars believe that the four Gospels were written between AD 60 and AD 90. This would be thirty to sixty years after Jesus’ death. (The Epistles were written between AD 33 and AD 70.) Look at how the other Synoptic Gospels used the word gospel and summarize these statements. a. Matthew 4:23
b. Luke 4:17-21
c. Luke 20:1
4. Now look at several places in the New Testament where the word gospel is found. What was said about the gospel in these verses? a. Romans 1:16
2 3
Melick, Richard, New Testament I Class Notes, Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary, Fall, 2002. Geoffrey W. Bromiley, Theological Dictionary of the New Testament, Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1985, p. 267. 17
Lesson 2 b. Acts 20:17-38
c. 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
d. Galatians 1:6,7,8,9 What sense do you have from these verses about the attitude of the apostles toward the gospel?
5. As you close your time today, please read the prophecy of Isaiah 61 that was quoted in Luke 4:18-19 and Matthew 11:5. In reading all of Isaiah 61 you realize that Christ’s coming to earth was the fulfillment of the first two verses, but the rest of the verses have yet to be fulfilled. Question 2 includes a word study of the Hebrew word translated as good news. Read this definition and then read Isaiah 61:1,2 out loud several times. Write these verses out here. What incredible truth God gave to Isaiah concerning the future.
Meditate on what this truth means to you personally, and confess that before your Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
You might associate the song “O Come, Let Us Adore Him” with Christmas, but the message is appropriate throughout the year. Sometimes you will be asked to close by singing a hymn or song so that you quiet your heart and worship God for what He has done on your behalf. Here are three verses of this classic hymn for you. “O Come, Let Us Adore Him” O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord. We’ll praise His name forever, we’ll praise His name forever, we’ll praise His name forever, Christ the Lord. For He alone is worthy, for He alone is worthy, for He alone is worthy, Christ the Lord. Wade’s Cantus Diversi
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Lesson 3
Lesson 3 – John Mark and Mark 1 Introduction In this week’s lesson you will finish with the overview looking at the life of John Mark, the author of The Gospel According to Mark and Scripture’s record of the spread of the gospel in the early church. You will look at the life of John Mark from every New Testament reference where he is mentioned. My prayer is that by looking into the record of this man’s life you will be encouraged. At the end of the week, you begin the observation of Mark 1 with the Comprehensive Chapter Study. I am in awe of how God’s word has been protected over the centuries. What a privilege that we can spend time focusing on our Father God and our Savior through God’s carefully recorded message. What a blessing that we have been given the Holy Spirit to counsel and guide us into God’s truth. If you were to go for a walk in the woods or along the seashore, would you be able to spend time meditating on God’s word that you have hidden in your heart? What a blessing it is to be able to quiet your spirit and commune with the Lord God through His holy and eternal word. Join with the psalmist David who said in Psalm 119:11 that he treasured God’s word in his heart that he might not sin against his God.
Days 1, 2, and 3 – John Mark and the Early Church 1. Have you read the phrases, “tradition tells us…” or “according to tradition…”? In regard to the Christian church this word “tradition” came to mean the information that was gathered and recorded by the early church fathers, in the time immediately following the record of the book of Acts. This “tradition” is also called the “patristic tradition or testimony.” In these writings the leaders in the early church wrote their comments on the New Testament Scriptures, as well as in response to the commentaries of other leaders. Through these writings we also learn about how the message of the gospel was spread. “Tradition” teaches us that Mark was the scribe for the apostle Peter. When Peter preached, Mark “took notes” on a scroll. “Tradition” also teaches us that Mark compiled his notes into what came to be known as The Gospel According to Mark, for the church in Rome. Mark was written about in Scripture with the name John Mark as well as Mark. Mark was known as John Mark in the Hebrew community. John was a very common Hebrew name at the time of Christ, and Mark (Marcus) was a common Latin name. The Roman Empire had several leaders with the name Marcus. Others of the Jewish community had their names changed as they served among the Gentiles. The apostle Paul was named Saul as a child. Paulos was a common Latin name and Saul was the first king of Israel. Jesus changed Simon’s Hebrew name to Peter, which in Greek means the rock. In the next two days you will focus on Mark and his ministry. Remember to open each day of your study with a prayer, asking for guidance, knowing that God wants you to understand His word. You might consider committing a verse of this week’s lesson to memory. Memorizing Scripture will equip you and strengthen your own relationship with the Lord as well as provide a means to help you minister to others in the future. What do you learn about Mark from other Scripture? Begin with these observation questions. • What do you learn about Mark in Acts 12:12? This is the account of the church’s response to God’s intervention. Look at the entire paragraph to see the setting of this event. What do you learn about Mark’s family and their role in the early church? 19
Lesson 3 •
Most biblical scholars agree that the individual mentioned in Mark 14:51,52 was Mark himself. What is your response to this information in Mark 14:43-52?
•
A very significant event took place in the early church while Paul was on his first missionary journey. Please summarize these verses that tell of this event. a. Acts 12:25 (Mark these Acts’ references to be used for Question 3.)
b. Acts 13:5
c. Acts 13:13
d. Acts 15:36-41
•
Now please read these Scriptures to gain insight into Mark’s life. What do these Scriptures tell you about Mark? a. Colossians 4:10 b. Acts 4:32-37
2.
Please examine these word studies for two of the key words in this lesson.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
4904 sunergos sunergoi Philemon 1:24
Fellow worker, a co-laborer, companion in labour, (fellow), helper, (laborer, -worker), laborer together, with, workfellow Helper, an under oarsman, i.e. generally subordinate (assistant, sexton, constable): minister, officer, servant
Romans 16:3,9,21
5257 huperetes hupereten Acts 13:5
20
Acts 26:16
Lesson 3 3. It is worthwhile to have an understanding of the early church and the spread of the gospel as recorded in The Acts of the Apostles. You already looked at several verses in Acts to see the mention of Mark. Christ told His disciples to take the gospel to Judea, Samaria, and the uttermost parts of the earth. In the next two days, please read Luke’s account of the disciple’s obedience to the commission of their Lord and Savior. As you read look for the evidence of the spread of the Gospel and look at a map of the Mediterranean to see where the gospel was preached. Inductive study involves reading with a purpose. Please take the time to read portions in the book of Acts and think about the early church. Acts records the initial teaching of several apostles and then the first, second, and third missionary journeys. a. How did the gospel message go out b. How did this impact the spread of according to Acts 2? Christianity?
c. What was Saul’s interaction with the church according to Acts 7:54-8:1-4?
d. How did this impact the spread of Christianity?
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Lesson 3 e. The disciples gathered in Antioch and the Holy Spirit sent out Barnabas and Saul. Read Acts 12:24-Acts 13:13 and briefly summarize this passage by using the “5Ws and an H” questions.
f. How did this impact the spread of Christianity?
g. Now please read Acts 15:30-41 to see the ministry of those who were to spread the gospel to the ends of the earth. What do you learn about these men here?
h. How did this impact the spread of Christianity?
4. What took place following the ascension of Christ and the writing of the Gospels? During this time Jesus was recognized as Lord, the gospel was preached, and Christianity spread throughout the Mediterranean world. Christian theology matured through extensive missionary efforts, and the epistles were written to answer questions and define Christianity. Continued on the next page.
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Lesson 3 Most biblical scholars believe that Mark’s Gospel was written for the church in Rome. Stop and imagine that you are a part of the early Christian church in Rome in the 50’s. It is a little over 20 years after Christ’s ascension when the church receives Paul’s letter that was later named, The Epistle to the Romans. Paul wrote his letter to clarify God’s righteousness and His plan of salvation through His Son Jesus Christ. The apostles were all closely associated with Jesus, and as they were becoming elderly, the church leaders were concerned about passing along the message of the gospel to the next generation. The three Synoptic Gospels were the first written, probably between 70 and 85 A.D. and each had a specific audience in mind as they wrote. The Gospel According to John was the last Gospel written, probably between 85 and 90 A.D., during a time of the persecution of the church by the Roman officials. Each Gospel writer wrote with the needs of a specific audience in the early church in mind. Each writer knew that they needed to make Jesus understandable to others.4 The apostle Paul had been a persecutor of the early Christian church and then he was converted on his way to Damascus. Read the Lord’s words to Ananias in Acts 9:15,16 and Paul’s sharing with Agrippa in Acts 26:13-20. What do these accounts tell you about the message of salvation?
Keep Paul and Mark’s pasts in mind as you read what Paul said about Mark in Philemon 1:24. What does this tell you about Paul?
The apostle Peter denied Christ three times and John 21 records Peter’s recommissioning by Jesus for ministry. John 21:15-17 was written as an encouragement for someone who struggles with forgiving themself. How did Jesus model forgiveness? What did Jesus entrust to Peter and how was Peter to accomplish this?
Now look at what Peter said about Mark in 1 Peter 5:13. What does this tell you about Peter and Mark’s relationship? Continued on the next page.
4
Melick, Ibid. 23
Lesson 3 In the first century, it was very important to the Gentile people that their leaders demonstrate power, authority, and success. The Roman Emperors demanded allegiance, some were even called savior. The Romans brought peace to the world and safety to travel on the seas and roadways. The Roman government provided food for its people. Look at 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 to see Paul’s teaching to the Gentile church in Corinth concerning God’s plan. What does Paul say about the cross? Notice also the contrast that Paul made in this passage. You have already read Mark’s Gospel through, so as you answer these questions think about how this issue of the cross relates to Mark’s writing to the church in Rome.
After Barnabas and Mark went out to spread the message of the gospel, the early Christian church called Mark, Mark the Evangelist. I thought of the Christian song “I Love to Tell the Story” as I was thinking about that. If you know this song, you might close by singing these words while asking yourself if this testimony is true of your own life. “I Love to Tell the Story” I love to tell the story of unseen things above, of Jesus and His glory, of Jesus and His love; I love to tell the story because I know ‘tis true, it satisfies my longing as nothing else can do. Refrain: I love to tell the story! ‘Twill be my theme in glory – to tell the old, old story of Jesus and His love. By A. Catherine Hankey and William G. Fischer
Days 4 and 5 – Mark 1, Comprehensive Chapter Study 1. Every time you begin a chapter you will spend time going through a process called the Comprehensive Chapter Study. Generally this will be done in one day, but for the first chapter, two days will be allowed for this part of the study. The pattern for inductive study is to observe a chapter and then study the chapter to determine the themes or emphasis of the chapter. In the next two days you will observe the Scripture Worksheets for Mark 1. Open in prayer asking God to make His word living to you so that this part of the lesson will not become an academic exercise. • Now read Mark 1 paying attention to the key words. You can refer to the Inductive Study Methodology in the Appendix for help with this observation process. As you read through the chapter, mark the key words. Now is the time to list what is being taught concerning the key words of Mark 1, by writing a list of what is being stated about the key word when the author used the word. You can place these lists directly on the Scripture Worksheets in the right-hand margin under the heading of the key word, or place your lists on a separate sheet of paper. After marking the key words in Mark 1, list these words here.
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Lesson 3 •
As you read Mark 1, you can also look for the contrasts and comparisons that were used. Write the contrasts and comparisons here in the space provided, or mark your Scripture Worksheets in some way to show these.
Contrasts (to show differences/opposites)
Comparisons (to show similarities and connections, using the words as or like)
2. One way to see the message of Scripture is to look at how the Scripture communicates truth. In some verses, the first phrase in the verse could be an instruction, the second phrase a declarative statement, and the verse might end with a warning. In this case, the verse would be divided into part “a,” part “b,” and part “c.” In the Gospels, the author is telling the events of Christ’s life on earth and verses of historical narrative are declarative statements. Declarative statements also teach doctrinal truth that would inform and equip those who follow after Christ. Most of the verses in Mark 1 are sentences of declaration. The Bible also communicates with instructions and these can be found with the help of several clues. Instructions were generally written as commands, where the author tells the recipient or recipients to “do something.” Sometimes in a narrative passage of Scripture someone is given an instruction. Some of the verbs or words that express action were written in the imperative mood, which means that they are statements written as commands to be followed by those hearing the words or receiving the book or letter. These imperatives were generally written in the second person, addressing the recipients as “you or your” or sometimes the “you” is understood but not actually stated in the sentence. In the Koine Greek that was used for the New Testament, the verbs written in the imperative mood are easy to differentiate, because the imperative mood has a different ending than other verb forms. However, even when you do not know the Greek word that was used, you can tell when a verb is in the imperative form by the intent of the sentence. Some instructions are written with the word “let” introducing the command as in Mark 1:38. Read the following verses to see the instructions in Mark 1: Mark 1:3b,c,17,25,38, 41c,44. Mark these verses or phrases in some way. The word exhortation comes from the word exhort which was used in the New Testament to mean coming alongside of someone, reminding them of God’s truth, and perhaps urging them to be obedient to the word of God. Exhortations might also be stated in the form of something that is promised from God. While Mark 1:15 could be considered an instruction, but because of the message of this verse, it would be considered as an exhortation. Read this verse and think about why it could be considered an exhortation. You will see more exhortations as you move through Mark’s Gospel. 25
Lesson 3 Another important means of communication from God, Christ, the prophets, or apostles was the issuing of warnings, which were usually followed by a recompense or consequence for the sin that would follow someone’s sinful attitude or actions. Warning statements addressed a behavior that would lead to a problem or consequence. Mark 1:43 is a warning statement as the word warn is even in the text. Mark that verse in some way as a warning. 3. Look for terms of expression that help you understand time, with words like “now, then, later,” etc. and mark these in a consistent way. Another means of understanding language is to examine the way verbs are used in writing. A simple explanation of verbs is that they are words that express action or the state of being, and they relate the words communicated within a framework of time. Verbs communicate that something is happening at the moment, or has happened in the past, or will happen in the future. (The verbs in the preceding sentence are in italics.) Verbs can also announce that an event has already taken place and the results of that event are continuing at the present time. Please take the time to read Mark 1 looking for the different verb tenses that were used, noting in the left hand margin references to the future, the present, or the past. This can add another dimension to your study, not because you will be studying verbs, but this will help you see what God has done in the past, what He is doing in your life today, as well as show you what the future holds. 4. Mark words that express conclusion or show results or purpose with words like “for,” “for this reason,” “so that,” and “because.” Words that express conclusion are important to note because they show why the author wrote what he wrote and help you see the promises or consequences that will come. 5. What truth from Mark 1 does the Lord want you to focus upon? What caused you to think about your own life and lifestyle? How has this portion of Scripture ministered to you today?
Please close by praying through a verse that was meaningful to you and make it very personal to yourself and where you are in your life today. My verse is Mark 1:35, “Father God, I thank You that You have given me a desire to rise early in the morning and that You have provided me with the place to sit in quiet and seek after You. Thank You that Jesus my Savior modeled this and that Your holy word records this choice. I pray that You will strengthen me to be faithful to Your will for my life. This I pray in Jesus’ precious name, Amen.”
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Lesson 4
Lesson 4 – Mark 1:1-22 Introduction This week you will continue in Mark 1. Such amazing thoughts can come to a believer’s mind and spirit when they surrender to the Lord while reading His word. One of the spiritual disciplines involves the study of the Bible. You have made a commitment to the study of Mark’s Gospel, and my prayer is that you would be faithful to this commitment. I am being blessed every day as I study the Bible seeing God’s truth revealed in His word. One essential dimension of discipline is to train oneself for what is good. In this case, the training would involve establishing the “habit” of daily looking into God’s word for the message He has for you. You might ask a friend to hold you accountable and ask you, “Did you spend time in the word yesterday?” In fact, it would benefit you both if you would hold each other accountable in this spiritual discipline. If you are pressed for time during any of the weeks of this study and know you will not be able to complete the day’s lesson, read the Scripture that is being studied for the week, each day. Please do not give up on studying; you will be blessed as you continue.
Days 1 and 2 – Mark 1:1-11 1. Yeah, it is time to begin the inductive study of Mark’s Gospel, by moving through the book verse by verse! Open in prayer, asking God the Holy Spirit to illuminate His word as you study. Begin with these observation questions. • In today’s lesson you will be introduced to John the Baptist. Did you mark each reference to John the Baptist in some way? I placed “J/B” above each reference, whether Mark used his name or the pronouns (he, me, or his) that take the place of the name of John the Baptist. Mark these in some way. •
Reading the two Old Testament quotations Mark quoted in Mark 1:2,3 will help you understand to whom Mark is referring. After reading these verses write out what you learned about God, Christ, and John the Baptist. God: Christ: John the Baptist: a. Malachi 3:1
b. Isaiah 40:3
•
From Mark 1:4-8, what do you learn about John the Baptist? Include your impression of John’s character.
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Lesson 4
2.
•
Imagine what it would have been like to live in Israel in the early era of the Roman Empire. Israel had been under the political and military authority of the conquering Greek armies and then the Romans established their empire in Israel. Devout people of Israel knew the sacred writings of their ancestors in the Hebrew language. These same writings had been translated into the Koine Greek language over two centuries earlier. The synagogue system in every community of Israel taught its people about God and the promised Messiah. For centuries, God had not sent a prophet to speak to His people. The testimony of witnesses was very important to people in the ancient near east. If three “told the same story” people believed them. How was Jesus affirmed after His baptism? What is your own personal response to this?
•
Please stop and mediate on today’s Scripture and ask God to help you see His hand in your life this very moment. Offer a prayer of praise and adoration before the Lord God. Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
2424 Iesous Iesou Mark 1:1 5547 Christos Christou Mark 1:1
Jesus, of Hebrew origin, i.e. Jehoshua, the name of our Lord and two (three) other Israelites Christ, anointed, the Messiah, an epithet of Jesus. From chrio, to anoint; in the Old Testament, a term applied to everyone anointed with holy oil, primarily to the holy priesthood.5 God, a deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively a magistrate, by Hebrew very: exceeding, God, god (-ly, -ward). Many manuscripts do not contain the phrase Son of God. Prophet, a foreteller, by analysis, an inspired speaker; by extension, a poet. Two things are necessary for a prophet, an insight granted by God into the divine secrets or mysteries, and a communication to others of these secrets.6
Hebrews 13:8
2316 theos Mark 1:1
4396 prophetes prophete Mark 1:2
5
Matthew 16:16
Mark 1:14,15
2 Peter 3:2
Spiros Zodhiates, The Complete Word Study New Testament, Chattanooga, AMG Publishers, 1991, p. 968. Ibid., p. 953. 28 6
Lesson 4 Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
32 angelos angelon Mark 1:2 907 baptizo baptizon Mark 1:4
Messenger, a messenger, especially an angel, by implication, a pastor. Usually refers to angels. Baptizing, to make whelmed (fully wet), used only (in the New Testament) of ceremonial ablution, especially the ordinance of Christian baptism, baptist, baptize, wash. To immerse, submerge for a religious purpose; washing or ablution, was frequently by immersion.7 Proclaiming, to herald (as a public crier), especially divine truth (the gospel), preach (-er), publish
James 2:25
2784 kerusso kerusson Mark 1:4,7
Mark 1:14,38,39,45
908 baptisma baptisma Mark 1:4 3341 metanoia metanoias Mark 1:4
Baptism, from 907, baptism, literally and figuratively (noun)
Luke 3:3
Repentance, compunction (for guilt, including reformation), by implication, reversal (of [another’s] decision)
Romans 2:4
859 aphesis aphesin Mark 1:4
Forgiveness, (figuratively) pardon, deliverance, liberty, remission KJV
Acts 5:31
266 hamartia hamartion Mark 1:4 1843 exomologeo exomologoumenoi Mark 1:5 40 hagios hagio Mark 1:8
Sins, offense, sin (-ful)
John 1:29
Confessed, to acknowledge or (by implication, of assent), agree fully; confess, profess, promise Holy, sacred (physically pure, morally blameless or religious, certainly consecrated): (most) holy (one, thing), saint. Used for the Holy Spirit. Spirit, i.e. breath (blast) or a breeze; by analysis or figuratively, a spirit, i.e. (human) the rational soul, by implication vital principle, mental disposition, etc. or (superhuman) an angel, demon, or (divine) God, Christ’s Spirit, the Holy Spirit, ghost, life, spirit (-ual, -ually), mind. Used for the Holy Spirit.
James 5:16
4151 pneuma pneumati Mark 1:8
7
Acts 1:5
Matthew 3:11
Mark 1:10
Ibid., p. 895. 29
Lesson 4 3. You already looked at the Old Testament verses Mark quoted in Mark 1:2,3. Please look at the passages written by these two prophets to add to what you already saw in Question 1. God: Christ: Israel: a. Malachi 2:17-Malachi 3:7
b. Isaiah 40:1-5
Think about the setting of the nation of Israel at the time of John the Baptist. What do the words of the prophets (quoted in each Gospel) tell you about the spiritual climate at the time?
4. When the text of Mark comes to an event that is also mentioned in the Gospels of Matthew, Luke, and John, you will be given the other reference or references. Reading about the same event in another Gospel will give you another perspective to help you learn about Jesus and His ministry. You might not always have the time to look into the other Gospels, but these cross references will always be given for you if you should choose to study in the other Gospels. Reading Luke 1 will help with understanding the life and ministry of John the Baptist. As you read Luke 1:1-66, consider John the Baptist’s heritage and these two questions. (Zechariah’ words at the end of Luke 1 will be looked at in Question 8.) What was Gabriel’s prophecy to Zechariah?
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What was Elizabeth’s revelation?
Lesson 4 5 Now please read Matthew and John’s accounts of John the Baptist and Jesus Christ. Most biblical scholars believe that both Matthew and John’s Gospels were written to the people of the nation of Israel. Keep this in mind as you read Matthew 3 and John 1 and summarize what you learn about John the Baptist and what you learn about Jesus Christ. John the Baptist: Jesus Christ:
6. Now, considering what you have read about John the Baptist, please take the time to think about the life and early ministry of John the Baptist and write a summary of this.
7. John the Baptist was speaking to a gathering who understood that the Holy Spirit of God anointed priests, prophets, and kings for a particular ministry and for an appointed period of time. What did John the Baptist announce about the Holy Spirit in Mark 1:8? The test for a prophet of God was that their testimony came true. Read how the fulfillment of John’s prophecy was explained in these verses. a. Acts 1:1-8
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Lesson 4 b. Acts 2:1-4
c. Acts 10:34-45
8. As a follower of Christ you have been adopted as a child of God. God loves you and yearns for you to turn to Him for your every need. God longs for you to come to Him. Isaiah 30:18 says how blessed are those who long for God. Intimacy with God requires an effort on our part. When I spend time in God’s holy word I commune with Him. The words of John the Baptist’s father Zechariah truly ministered to my spirit. At the time I read Luke 1:67-80, my husband and I were in a very frustrating circumstance. I trust God in all circumstances and know that in His sovereignty He allows pain and frustration to accomplish His purposes. Meditating on who He is changes my wounded and frustrated spirit. The words of Zechariah had that impact on me. Please read these words and reflect on what this means to you personally. To personalize Scripture, you might read the pronouns He as You, and the pronoun His as Your and allow this prayer to bring you to an attitude of worship before the Lord.
My only hope for tomorrow is based on my faith in Jesus Christ. I have chosen to sing this hymn as an act of worship before the Lord, and ask that you join me in this. “Take My Life, and Let It Be” Take my life, and let it be consecrated, Lord to Thee; take my moments and my days, let them flow in cease-less praise, let them flow in cease-less praise. Take my hands, and let them move at the impulse of thy love; take my feet, and let them be swift and beautiful for Thee, swift and beautiful for Thee. Take my will, and make it Thine – it shall be no longer mine; take my heart – it is Thine own, it shall be Thy royal throne, it shall be Thy royal throne. Take my love, my Lord, I pour at Thy feet its treasure store; take myself, and I will be ever, only, all for Thee, ever, only, all for Thee. By Frances Ridley Havergal and John B. Dykes 32
Lesson 4
Day 3 – Mark 1:12,13 1. Today’s lesson will study what became known as the “temptation of Jesus.” What a privilege we have to study God’s holy word to learn about Jesus Christ and make personal application in our own life based on the testimony of His life. Open in prayer asking God that the same Spirit that drove Jesus into the wilderness would minister to your spirit and help you see what God would want you to see in the account of Jesus’ temptation. • One-way of observing a passage of Scripture is to answer the “5 Ws and an H” questions. While Mark used two verses to describe Jesus’ temptation, Matthew and Luke both wrote a much longer narrative of this same event. Read Mark 1:12,13 and Luke 4:1-13 and consider these questions. Mark 1:12,13 Luke 4:1-13 Who was involved in this incident and what happened?
Where and when did this event take place?
How would you summarize (briefly) the three temptations recorded in Luke 4? a. b. c. •
2.
Briefly summarize how Jesus responded to Satan’s temptation according to Luke 4:113. Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
2117 euthus euthus Mark 1:12 3985 peirazo peirazomenos Mark 1:13
At once ISV, straight, i.e. (literally) level, or (figuratively) true, by and by, forthwith, immediately, straightway Tempted, to test (objectively), i.e. endeavor, scrutinize, entice, discipline, assay, examine, go about, prove, tempt (-er), try Satan, the accuser, i.e. the devil
Mark 1:28
4567 Satanas Satana Mark 1:13
Galatians 6:1
Acts 5:3
33
Lesson 4 Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
1247 diakoneo diekonoun Mark 1:13
Ministering, to be an attendant, i.e. wait upon (mentally or as a host, friend or [figuratively] teacher); technically to act as a Christian deacon: - (ad-) minister (unto), serve, use the office of deacon
Mark 1:31
3. Look at the words of temptation that Satan spoke to Jesus that were recorded in Matthew 4:1-11 and then look at Jesus’ answers. After reading the Matthew passage, turn to the actual context of the words that Jesus spoke to Satan. Keep in mind that the book of Deuteronomy was delivered to the nation of Israel as they were about to enter the Promised Land, after they had been in the wilderness for forty years. Jesus’ response: Matthew 4:4 (Deuteronomy 8:3)
The Old Testament context of Jesus’ statement: Deuteronomy 8:1-6
Matthew 4:7 (Deuteronomy 6:16)
Exodus 17:1-7
Matthew 4:10 (Deuteronomy 6:13)
Deuteronomy 6:13-15
4. Before you finish the day’s lesson please read Hebrews 4:14-16 and write out what the author said about Jesus. Continued on the next page. 34
Lesson 4
What did you learn about Jesus from today’s reading?
What did you learn about your enemy Satan from today’s reading?
What does the account of Jesus’ temptation say to you personally?
You might close by singing this beautiful hymn as a declaration of your commitment to Jesus Christ your Savior. Ask yourself if these words reflect your heart. Thank the Lord that you have His holy and precious word available for you to study. Ask the Holy Spirit to increase your desire to study God’s message for you. “May the Mind of Christ Our Savior” May the mind of Christ our Savior live in me from day to day, by His love and pow’r controlling all I do and say. May the Word of God dwell richly in my heart from hour to hour, so that all may see I triumph only thru His pow’r. May the peace of God my Father rule my life in ev’rything, that I may be calm to comfort sick and sorrowing. By Kate B. Wilkinson and A. Cyril Barham-Gould
Day 4 – Mark 1:14,15 1. You will be continuing in Mark 1, observing the text, looking at cross references to help you interpret the chapter, while looking for eternal principles that will help you make personal application. As we are thinking about the spiritual discipline of Bible study this week, please open by reading Psalm 119:11 and pray through this Scripture as your heart attitude before the Lord. Bow before the Lord asking Him to fill you with His Holy Spirit so that you might be guided in His truth as you read and meditate on God’s word today. • Please begin by writing your personal response to Psalm 119:11.
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Lesson 4
2.
•
Now read Mark 1:1-16,21,24 and write down the references to specific locations. Now look at the map of Israel in the Appendix to see the relationship that these cities or areas have with one another.
•
In a later lesson you will look at the circumstances of John the Baptist’s arrest. After reading Mark 1:14a, please read Matthew 4:12 and record the additional information that Matthew recorded concerning this event.
•
What were Jesus’ words that declared truth in Mark 1:15 and what instructions did Jesus give? Declarative statements: Instructions:
•
Galatians 4:4 announced truth about the sovereignty of God that ties in with today’s verses. Write out this declarative statement.
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
932 basileia basileia Mark 1:15
Kingdom, properly royalty, i.e. abstract rule or concretely a realm (literally or figuratively) kingdom, reign Repent, to think differently or afterwards, i.e. reconsider (morally, feel compunction). To turn away from sin; to turn back to God, to follow Him. Believing, to have faith (in, upon, or with respect to, a person or thing), i.e. credit, by implication to entrust (esp. one’s spiritual well-being to Christ), commit (to trust), put trust in
Mark 3:24
3340 metanoeo metanoeite Mark 1:15 4100 pisteuo pisteuete Mark 1:15
Acts 17:30
Ephesians 1:13
3. Mark introduced the phrase the “kingdom of God” in today’s passage. The nation of Israel had an understanding of what was meant by this phrase based on the teaching they had received through the Hebrew Scriptures. Please look at these Old Testament verses and record what is said about the kingdom or the king. Continued on the next page. 36
Lesson 4 a. 1 Samuel 12:12 b. Psalm 103:19,22
c. Malachi 1:14
d. Zechariah 14:9 4. For a review, look back at Mark 1:4 to see what John proclaimed and then compare what was said in Matthew 3:1,2,11 about repentance. a. Mark 1:4 b. Matthew 3:1,2,11 Please stop and think about whether there is a difference in the use of the word repentance as it was used by John the Baptist and Jesus’ use of the word repent in Mark 1:15.
5. The concept of repentance was very common in the Old Testament. Jeremiah 8:6 tells of Israel’s unrepentant heart and recorded God’s words saying that no man had repented of his wickedness. Part of the concept of repentance in the Old Testament is that the person involved was sorry for what they had done and had regret because of their actions. The Hebrew Rabbis taught the Jewish people that they were to repent and turn back to God, and they used the phrase “great is repentance” in their (Rabbinic) writings. Both of the verbs Jesus used in His commands in Mark 1:15 were written in the present imperative. This means that those in Jesus’ audience were instructed to continually repent and believe in the gospel. The word used for believing was not used as a mere intellectual assent, but it represented identification with what one believed in. In Jesus’ preaching He commanded that the people keep on believing in the gospel. As the people heard Jesus’ teaching, they were to believe in what He spoke. One way of internalizing Scripture is to paraphrase a verse or passage. Please put into your own words Jesus’ two commands from Mark 1:15. You might look at the word studies in Question 2 for some help with this. Continued on the next page. 37
Lesson 4 What do these commands mean to you today?
If you know this hymn, you might close by singing these words as a song of commitment before the Lord. “I Surrender All” All to Jesus I surrender, all to Him I freely give; I will ever love and trust Him, in His presence daily live. Chorus: I surrender all, I surrender all, all to Thee, my blessed Savior, I surrender all. All to Jesus I surrender, humbly at His feet I bow; worldly pleasures all forsaken, take me Jesus, take me now. Chorus: I surrender all, I surrender all, all to Thee, my blessed Savior, I surrender all. By Judson W. Van de Venter and Winfield S. Weeden
Day 5 – Mark 1:16-22 1. Today’s lesson will provide an important narrative account of Jesus’ ministry. Open in prayer asking God to renew your spirit through His holy word as you study today. Jesus told His followers that the Holy Spirit would guide us into the truth. We can always thank the Lord for that help and His faithfulness. Now begin with these observation questions. • One way to study inductively is to observe through the “5 W and an H” questions. Please approach today’s paragraph by thinking in this way. Who was involved in this passage and what do you learn about these individuals?
Where and when did this take place?
What actually happened in Mark 1:16-20?
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Lesson 4 What do you think about the choices made by the individuals involved in Mark 1:1620?
•
2.
What does Mark 1:21,22 say about Jesus and what comparison did Mark make in Mark 1:22?
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
2112 eutheos euthus Mark 1:18,20,21 190 akoloutheo ekolouthesan Mark 1:18
Immediately, directly, at once or soon, as soon as, forthwith, shortly, straightway Followed, to be in the same way with, to accompany, (specifically as a disciple), reach. By the time of Christ this involved an ethical aspect with the “superior one walking ahead of the inferior.”8 Synagogue, an assemblage of persons, specifically a Jewish “synagogue” (the meeting or the place), by analogy a Christian church, assembly, congregation Scribes, a writer, professionally, scribe or secretary, town-clerk. In the first century they were considered to be authorities in the Hebrew law. They were associated with the Pharisees.9 Disciple, a learner, i.e. pupil. Followers who stay close to their teacher. “An adherent who accepts the instruction given to him and makes it his rule of conduct.”10
Used 40 times in Mark’s Gospel.
4864 sunagoge sunagogen Mark 1:21 1122 grammateus grammateis Mark 1:22 3101 mathetes mathetais Mark 2:15
Mark 8:34
Mark 1:39
Acts 4:5
Acts 11:26
3. The first time Mark used the word disciple in his Gospel was in Mark 2:15. However, in today’s passage we are introduced to four of Jesus’ disciples. If you read Matthew’s account of Jesus’ calling His first disciples, it is very similar to Mark’s. Look at Matthew 4:18-22 and then Luke 5:1-11 to see any additional information concerning this event. a. Matthew 4:18-22
8
R. Alan Cole, The Gospel According to Mark, Grand Rapids, Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co, 1987, p. 61. Zodhiates, Ibid., p. 899. 10 Ibid., p. 933. 9
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Lesson 4 b. Luke 5:1-11 (Note: the Sea of Galilee was also known as the Lake of Gennesaret.)
4. If you look in the Old Testament for the way that the word fisherman was used you see a pattern in the writings of the prophets. Look at the use of the word fishermen in Jeremiah 16:16, reading the verse in its context, Jeremiah 16:14-21. Explain briefly what God promised He would do and why.
5. When there were at least ten Jewish men in a community, the men were to establish a synagogue. In the synagogue, the men were trained and taught the Hebrew Scriptures as well as the writings of the Rabbis. The people of Israel went to Jerusalem to worship in the temple. The Sadducees were the group that oversaw the ministry of the temple in Jerusalem and the Pharisees were responsible for the ministry within the synagogues. The scribes were considered to be “ordained theologians in the oldest strata of the rabbinic tradition.”11 The scribes spoke of the Law, known as the Torah, the first five books of the Old Testament, and they also pointed their listeners to the teachings of the rabbis written during the intertestament times. Mark makes a comparison about Jesus’ teaching in Mark 1:22. Some translators chose the word “like” and some the word “as.” Write the comparison made in this verse. This study will look at Jesus’ teaching as it is revealed in Mark’s Gospel. This study will also look at how the scribes responded to Jesus. What was the response to Jesus’ teaching according to today’s passage?
This week we have thought about the spiritual discipline of studying the Bible. Notice the timing in the verses Mark recorded in today’s passage. Jesus called His disciples, they followed, and when they arrived in Capernaum they went into the synagogue where Jesus taught. (Capernaum was at the northern edge of the Sea of Galilee.) Notice how Mark introduced the issue of time in these verses. Many versions translate the Greek word euthus as immediately, to give a sense of the movement of Jesus’ ministry. The disciples followed Jesus and the teaching began! Jesus proclaimed the gospel, and would have drawn His audiences to look at their sacred Hebrew Scriptures that pointed to the provision that God made in sending the promised Messiah. Please close in prayer in response to the message Mark delivered in the first twentytwo verses of His Gospel.
11
Wm. L. Lane, The Gospel According to Mark, Grand Rapids, Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1974, p. 72. 40
Lesson 5
Lesson 5 – Mark 1:23-45, Mark 1 Review Introduction For the Christian, the spiritual discipline of Bible study continues with the tradition of the Hebrew people who came together to study the sacred writings of the Law, history, the prophets, and the Hebraic poetry in the synagogue. When we looked at the spiritual discipline of meditation in the first lesson we read about God’s command to meditate on His words. The people did not have their own Scriptures, so they learned Scripture by memorizing, and with this “information” tucked away in their hearts, they could meditate on what God had revealed to them. Is there a verse that you memorized last week as you spent time in God’s word? Hallelujah! You could write out the verse in this space as a review for yourself.
Day 1 – Mark 1:23-28 1. Mark 1:21-26 shares about Jesus’ teaching in the synagogue in Capernaum and introduced a significant encounter. You have read through Mark’s Gospel and know that Mark recorded several of these encounters. Open by praying that as you read in the word today, you might have a clarity of mind to understand the message of Mark’s Gospel. Begin with these observation questions. • What did the man in the synagogue ask of Jesus and what did this man declare? a. b. c. •
What was the command that Jesus gave in Mark 1:25, and what was the impact this had upon the man with the unclean spirit?
•
What impact did Jesus’ actions have in the region of Galilee?
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Lesson 5 2.
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
169 akathartos akatharto Mark 1:23
Unclean, impure, (ceremonially and morally lewd), foul. “From the negate a and kathairo, to cleanse. In the new Testament, the demons who had lost their purity, having become unclean themselves; … through their solicitations, they have filled mankind with all uncleanness.”12 Destroy, to destroy fully, (…to perish, or lose), die, mar
Mark 1:26,27
622 apollumi apolesai Mark 1:24 40 hagios hagios Mark 1:24 2008 epitimao epetimesen Mark 1:25 1322 didache didache Mark 1:27 1849 exousia exousian Mark 1:27 1140 daimonion daimoniou Mark 1:34,39
John 10:10
Holy One, sacred, (physically pure, morally blameless, or religious, ceremonially consecrated), (most) holy (one, thing), saint Rebuked, to tax upon, i.e. censure or admonish; by implication, forbid: (straitly) charge. Used in the Old Testament as a divine word of rebuke.13 Teaching, instruction (the act or the matter), doctrine, hath been taught
Mark 1:8
Authority, privilege, … force, capacity, competency, freedom, … mastery, delegated influence: jurisdiction, liberty, power, right, strength Demon, a demonic being, by extension a deity, devil, god. Applied to evil spirits in the Old Testament.14
Mark 1:22
Zechariah 3:2 (in the Greek OT)
Mark 1:22
Luke 4:33
3. Before looking at today’s passage in Mark 1, please read Luke’s account of this same event in Luke 4:31-37 and record any additional information given in Luke’s record.
4. Look at how Jesus described the enemy of our soul in John 10:10. Write out the work of the enemy and Jesus’ promise to His followers concerning Himself. a. The work of the enemy: b. Jesus’ commitment to His followers:
12
Zodhiates, p. 883. C.E.B. Cranfield, The Gospel According to Saint Mark, Cambridge, The University Press, 1959, p. 77. 14 Zodhiates, Ibid., p. 900. 42 13
Lesson 5 5. As the study moves through Mark’s Gospel we will be looking at other Scripture concerning demons. One reference is in the Apostle James’ epistle to the church. Write out James’ comment on demons in James 2:19 after you have read James’ statement in its context (paragraph).
6. Early in Jesus’ ministry, He was given the opportunity to teach in the synagogues of Galilee. Think about the setting of today’s passage. The synagogue provided the designated area for the men of Israel to gather for teaching by the rabbis and scribes under the control of the Pharisees. The women and children were not allowed inside the synagogues, but they sat outside the open windows. A man with an unclean spirit entered the synagogue and screamed at Jesus, knowing who Jesus was. At the time of Christ, the common understanding concerning the spiritual dimension of a person was that “the use of the precise name of an individual or spirit would secure mastery over him.”15 Jesus’ rebuke demonstrated to those in attendance the power and authority that Jesus had. How would you describe to someone the response of the people in attendance?
7. The unclean spirit in the man recognized Jesus as the Holy One of God. Please end your time today by going back over the first 28 verses of Mark 1 and write down what was taught about Jesus in these verses. Meditate on these truths and allow this time in the word to minister to your spirit.
Continued on the next page.
15
Lane, Ibid., p. 74. 43
Lesson 5 Establishing the spiritual discipline of Bible study will help you grow in your faith. Paul wrote to Timothy in 2 Timothy 2:15 that he was to be “diligent to present himself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, handling accurately the word of truth.” That is the desire and passion of my heart to be diligent in the study of God’s word and to handle its truth accurately. Being a disciple of Jesus Christ involves a sincere commitment to Him and His word. I thought of the hymn “I Am Thine, O Lord” as I thought about the decision I made to become a Christian when I was a child. I long to learn from Jesus through His word and model my life after Him. Join me by closing with this song as a prayer before the Lord. “I Am Thine, O Lord” I am Thine, O Lord - I have heard Thy voice, and it told Thy love to me; but I long to rise in the arms of faith and be closer drawn to Thee. Chorus: Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to the cross where Thou hast died; draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to Thy precious, bleeding side. Consecrate me now to Thy service, Lord, by the pow’r of grace divine; let my soul look up with a steadfast hope and my will be lost in Thine. Chorus: Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to the cross where Thou hast died; draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to Thy precious, bleeding side. By Fannie J. Crosby and William H. Doane
Day 2 – Mark 1:29-37 1. The foundation of a synagogue in Capernaum was uncovered in the last century and coins from the first century were discovered. During the reign of the Roman Empire, the ruling Emperor put his picture on the coins that were used around the Empire. The first century coins helped the archeologists prove that the synagogue was constructed early in the first century, and so it was probably the synagogue where Jesus taught in Mark’s account. Right next-door to the first century synagogue was the foundation of a home that contained considerable Christian and Jewish symbols and words etched into the rock foundation. Evidence has suggested that the home was that of the Apostle Peter, which Jesus visited in today’s passage. Archeology has provided the Christian church “solid” evidence that supports the validity of the Old and New Testaments. Join with me in praising God for the dedication of countless individuals who have sought to discover the truth of the Jewish and Christian faith through archeology! Ask God that His word would be to you personally as the author of Hebrews said in Hebrews 4:12, “living and active and sharper than any twoedged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” Begin with these observation questions. • In God’s incredible wisdom He designed our bodies to be able to fight off “germs” by a fever that raises the body’s white count. When we have a fever it is in response to an illness of some sort that is in our body. What impact did fever have on Peter’s mother-in-law and what does the end of Mark 1:31 say about this incident?
•
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What do you learn about Jesus in Mark 1:29-31?
Lesson 5
2.
•
What did Mark record about Jesus in Mark 1:32-34?
•
Throughout this study of Mark’s Gospel you will be reminded to pray before you open God’s word and as you close your time each day. Jesus modeled the spiritual discipline of prayer throughout the Gospel records. In today’s passage Mark records one of these examples. What does Mark 1:35 say to you personally?
Please examine this word study for a key word used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration: 1139 daimonizomai
daimonizamenous Mark 1:32
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
Possessed by demons, to be exercised by a demon, have a (be vexed with, be possessed with) devil (-s)
Mark 5:15,16,18
3. Both Matthew and Luke tell of the healing of Peter’s mother-in-law and the events that immediately followed. Please read these two passages and record any additional insight you find there. a. Matthew 8:14-17
b. Luke 4:38-41
4. When Matthew wrote his Gospel to a Jewish audience he knew that they would require Scriptural proof of Jesus as the Messiah. In Matthew 8:17 Matthew quoted part of Isaiah 53:4 in the Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Hebrew Scriptures, widely accepted over two hundred years before Christ. 45
Lesson 5 Isaiah 53 is called the servant song, and points to the Messiah being One who would suffer on behalf of His people. Please read Isaiah 53 to see what was prophesied about Jesus to the nation of Israel through Isaiah the prophet. As you read this passage, think of the impact that Jesus’ suffering has had on you personally. Write out your response to this picture of the “suffering servant.”
5. In an earlier lesson we read Isaiah’s prophecy of Isaiah 61:1,2. Jesus recited these verses in the synagogue according to both Matthew and Luke’s Gospels. I thought of those verses again as I read Mark 1:32-34. Isaiah said that the Messiah would set free the captives, and that is what Jesus did as people came to Him. Jesus set free those who had been in captivity through the work of Satan. The Apostle John recorded Jesus’ words in John 14:6 declaring Himself to be the way, the truth and the life and that no man comes to the Father but through Him. John also recorded that Jesus said in John 8:32 that He came to bring the truth and that His truth would set people free. What an incredible blessing that I am set free from the bondage of sin by Jesus’ amazing work on the cross, as a picture of God’s gift of grace. What does the healing ministry of Jesus say to you?
Paul wrote to Timothy that “all Scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that the person who belongs to God may be complete and thoroughly equipped for every good work,” in 2 Timothy 3:16,17. How would you explain what any or all of these functions have meant to you today?
Close in prayer thanking God for His faithfulness to you and praising Him for the role that Jesus has as your Savior.
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Lesson 5
Day 3 – Mark 1:38-45 1. In yesterday’s passage of Mark 1, Jesus modeled the spiritual discipline of solitude. For some people this is a difficult spiritual discipline and for others it is pure joy. God made people different! For people that are introspective, being alone with the Lord is invigorating. For those who are energized by people, talking with others about one’s response to the Bible helps them have insight into the application of God’s word in their own life. No matter how God made you, there is a value and benefit for solitude. Open your time today asking God to help you see in His word the message He has for you from the events explained in today’s passage. Begin with these observation questions. • What did Jesus ask of His disciples and why in Mark 1:38?
•
What did Jesus do according to Mark 1:39?
•
Mark’s Gospel presents an account of a leper that came to Jesus. After reading Mark 1:40-45 please answer these questions. What was the leper’s attitude as he came to Jesus? What was Jesus’ response to the leper and what happened? What did Jesus ask of the leper in Mark 1:43,44?
How did the leper respond to Jesus according to Mark 1:45?
2.
Please examine these word studies for two key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
4698 splagchnon splagchnistheis Mark 1:41
Compassion, strengthened from the spleen…, figuratively, pity or sympathy: bowels, inward affection, tender mercy Leprosy, scaliness. An infectious disease caused by bacteria that develop open sores and white, scaly scabs.16 Clean, to cleanse, (literally or figuratively) to make clean, purge, purify
Colossians 3:12
3014 lepra lepra Mark 1:42 2511 katharizo ekatharisthe Mark 1:42 16
Matthew 8:3 Hebrews 9:14,22,23
Clarence and Robert Barnhart, Editors, World Book Dictionary, Vol. 2, Chicago, World Book, Inc., 1985, p. 1200. 47
Lesson 5 3. Matthew and Luke both tell of the healing of the leper in Matthew 8:1-4 and Luke 5:12-16. Read these accounts and jot down any information that they might offer to help you understand this event.
4. Part of good biblical interpretation is to look at the teaching in the Old Testament that would help us understand the New Testament. Jesus made a reference to what Moses had commanded concerning leprosy. There were many different kinds of skin diseases in the ancient near east, so individuals who were affected by a skin disease had to go to the priest who would determine if they should be quarantined from the community. God gave the priest authority over this issue for the good of the community. Because of the separation required by the law, being a leper defined one’s life. Those with leprosy did not have the freedom that others had to move about freely in the community. Those with leprosy were considered as “untouchable.” One aspect of the disease involves a numbness of the nerve endings so that the person does not feel pain. There are still leper colonies in the world today where those afflicted with leprosy can go to receive treatment. Jesus referred to the law given in the book of Leviticus when He talked with the leper in Mark 1:44. Read Leviticus 14:1-32 to see the instructions given to the Hebrew community about leprosy. Note what was involved in the act of cleansing in verses 18-20 and 29.
5. In 2 Kings 5 we are told about two individuals who had leprosy. Please read this chapter and summarize what took place in the lives of the main characters that were involved in this account.
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Lesson 5 What do the events recorded in 2 Kings 5 say to you personally?
6. This week you have thought about the spiritual discipline of Bible study as you moved through the lessons. As you close your time today, please read Hebrews 4:12,13 and consider how today’s passage is, or can become, the example of these truths. Read Mark 1:38-45 and ask God to make these verses alive within your spirit. Close by praying to God concerning what He has revealed to you in His word.
Days 4 and 5 – Mark 1 Review 1. You will generally spend one day at the end of each chapter reading through the chapter to “review” its contents. This will be a very valuable part of the study of Mark’s Gospel, because you will spend time looking at the message of the chapter. For the review of Mark 1, you will be given an extra day, spending two days in this way. Open in prayer asking God for His insight and His wisdom so that you will clearly see the messages God has for you from Mark 1. • Look at the sheet in the Appendix entitled “Evidence of Jesus Christ in The Gospel According to Mark.” As you read through Mark 1, select some of the phrases that Jesus spoke, and record them on the chart. •
Now look at the different ways Jesus was addressed or what He was specifically called in Mark 1 and list those on the chart.
2. As you move through Mark’s Gospel you will be looking at Jesus’ actions. What Jesus did revealed who He was. It is said that God’s righteousness is revealed in His attributes and His actions. This is true of Jesus as well, so that as you study Mark’s Gospel you will be looking at what Jesus did, and through those actions, formulate a picture of Jesus. List some of Jesus’ actions on the “Evidence…” chart. 3. The New Testament includes sentences written as conditional clauses. Mark 1:12,13 pointed us to look into Matthew and Luke’s accounts of Jesus’ encounter with Satan. The phrase ‘ If you are God’s Son’ is written as a first-class condition. In the Greek language this type of clause is a simple condition and is assumed to be true. This can then be translated as ‘Since you are God’s Son,’ or ‘Since it is true that You are God’s Son, this is what You ought to do…’ Stop to think about this picture of Jesus before you continue with the review of Mark 1. 4. As you end your time of review please consider the themes in Mark 1. What is the evidence in Mark 1 that reveals the heart of Jesus? Look at the chapter asking God to help you see Jesus’ heart. Record this information on the “Evidence…” chart. Now jot down a key event from Mark 1 that shows you a picture of Jesus. Continued on the next page.
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Lesson 5 Please take some time to meditate on what you have recorded. As you look back over the chapter again, write down in the last column what this means to you personally. There is no right or wrong answer to this, because God’s word speaks to us wherever we are in life. May you be blessed by the time you spend meditating on God’s word. Is there something you are to do today that would show evidence of your walk in obedience to the Lord God Almighty? What do you need to do about this?
Under the Law of the nation of Israel, part of the reinstating of a leper into the community involved a cleansing through a number of offerings. Thank the Lord that as followers of Jesus Christ we can be cleansed from our sins, as Jesus Himself is the atonement for our sin. 1 John 1:9 says that “if we confess our sins God is faithful and just to forgive us of our sins, and to cleanse us of all unrighteousness.” If you know the song, “Living for Jesus,” you might close by singing this as your prayer of praise, thanksgiving, and commitment before the Lord. The chorus of this song is written in a form that asks one to make a personal commitment. Consider this message as you sing or read these words. “Living for Jesus” Living for Jesus a life that is true, striving to please Him in all that I do, yielding allegiance, gladhearted and free - this is the pathway of blessing for me. Chorus: O Jesus, Lord and Savior, I give myself to Thee, for Thou in Thine atonement didst give Thyself for me. I own no other master - my heart shall be Thy throne: My life I give, hence-forth to live, O Christ, for Thee alone. By Thomas O. Chisholm and C. Harold Lowden
Jesus Drives out a Demon
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Lesson 6
Lesson 6 – Mark 2 Introduction This week you will study Mark 2 and the spiritual discipline of service. You will also be asked to incorporate the disciplines you looked at in earlier lessons. My heart is that you will incorporate each of these disciplines in your life. We began with meditation, then prayer, and solitude as you have been studying the Bible. Through this study of The Gospel According to Mark you will be asked to memorize God’s word. In these disciplines, you will be blessed to see God working in your heart. God will help you as you choose to honor Him. God will always provide a way for you to be obedient. Trust God and open by confessing whatever it is that gets in the way of you spending time with Him each day and making that a priority in your life. God is faithful to forgive us and cleanse us from all of our sins when we come to Him and confess our sins, according to 1 John 1:9.
Day 1 – Mark 2, Comprehensive Chapter Study 1. Today you will begin the observation of Mark 2. Remember you will always begin a new chapter in this way. You can refer to the sheets in the Appendix entitled Inductive Study Methodology for help with the inductive observation process. Open in prayer asking for the Lord’s help. • Read Mark 2 paying attention to the key words that Mark used. Mark the key words and then make a list of what is being stated about the key word. You can place these lists directly on the Scripture Worksheets in the right-hand margin under the heading of the key word, or place your lists on a separate sheet of paper. Now please list the key words in Mark 2 here.
2. As you read Mark 2, you can also look for contrasts and comparisons that were used by Mark. Write these here in the space provided, and/or mark your Scripture Worksheets in some way to show these contrasts and comparisons. Contrasts (to show differences/opposites)
Comparisons (to show similarities and connections, using the words as or like)
3. Remember one way to see the message of Scripture is to look at how the Scripture communicates truth. Mark’s Gospel is an example of biographical narrative and contains many declarative statements. An example is Mark 2:1-5. Jesus delivered several instructions to the paralyzed man in Mark 2:5c,11. Mark this in some way. 51
Lesson 6 Jesus also spoke words of command to Levi in Mark 2:14d. Read through the chapter looking at the events explained by Mark. I think in the rest of the chapter Mark used declarative statements to teach about Jesus. Read these verses and if you agree, mark these verses in this way. 4. Look for terms of expression that help you understand time, with words like “now, then, later,” etc. and mark these in a consistent way. Another means of understanding language is to examine the way verbs are used in writing. A simple explanation of verbs is that they are words that express action or the state of being, and they relate the words communicated within a framework of time. Verbs communicate that something is happening at the moment, or has happened in the past, or will happen in the future. (The verbs in the preceding sentence are in italics.) Verbs can also announce that an event has already taken place and the results of that event are continuing at the present time. Please take the time to read Mark 2 looking for the different verb tenses that were used, noting in the left hand margin references to the future, the present, or the past. This can add another dimension to your study, not because you will be studying verbs, but this will help you see what God has done in the past, what He is doing in your life today, as well as show you what the future holds. 5. Mark words that express conclusion or show results or purpose with words like “for,” “for this reason,” “so that,” and “because.” Words that express conclusion are important to note because they show why the author wrote what he wrote and help you see the promises or consequences that will come. 6. As you read through Mark 2 today, what event spoke to you because of the circumstances in your own life?
Mark recorded that the people were amazed by Jesus, and began to glorify God, in Mark 1:12. Close by glorifying God through a song of worship, or by writing out what you have learned about God from this chapter of Mark’s Gospel.
Day 2 – Mark 2:1-12 1. In studying the Bible you can focus on the event being presented without seeing the doctrinal truth motivating the recording of the event. Open by praying that God will reveal the doctrine being presented in this passage, so that you might see this significant truth. Now begin with these observation questions. 52
Lesson 6
2.
•
If you attended Sunday School as a child you probably saw a picture someone drew of this event. Picture this account in your mind. Where did this take place?
•
Who was involved in this according to Mark 2:3,4 and what does this tell you about these men?
•
What did Jesus do for the paralyzed man?
•
What did Jesus say in Mark 2:5 and Mark 2:10?
•
Who confronted Jesus and why?
•
What became the key issue of this event? Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
863 aphiemi aphientai Mark 2:5 1260 dialogizomai dialogizomenoi Mark 2:6,8
Forgiven, to send forth, in various applications, forsake, lay aside, leave, let (alone, be, go, have), to yield up Arguing ISV, to reckon thoroughly, i.e. generally to deliberate (by reflection or discussion): cast in mind, consider, dispute, muse, reason, think Blaspheming, vilification, (especially against God), evil speaking, railing
Mark 2:7,9,10
Glorify, to render (or esteem) glorious (in a wide application): (make) glorify (-ious), full of glory, honour, magnify. To give a correct estimate of something.
Luke 2:20
988 blasphemia blasphemei Mark 2:7 1392 doxazo doxazein Mark 2:12
Mark 8:16,17 Mark 9:33 Mark 3:28
3. Both Matthew and Luke tell about this same event in their Gospels. Read these passages and add any additional information that is offered. a. Matthew 9:1-8 b. Luke 5:17-26
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Lesson 6 4. In John the Baptist’s ministry he preached a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. God had established specific ways for the sins of the people of Israel to be forgiven. This is explained carefully in the Law of the Hebrew Scriptures, starting in the book of Exodus. For John the Baptist to say that people needed a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins was surprising to those who came to see “this man in the wilderness.” Jesus followed John the Baptist’s teaching about the forgiveness of sins outside of the sacrificial system, and Mark recorded the response of those who were listening. Remember that the scribes were considered to be the authorities concerning the Law at the time of Jesus. The author of the book of Hebrews set out to explain the role of Jesus Christ for those who believe. Please summarize what these verses say about the role of the priest and then what was taught about the role that Jesus had, and has today. As you read, also look for the truths about the forgiveness of sins through the (Old Testament) priest and through Jesus. The old covenant: Hebrews 5:1-3
The new covenant: Hebrews 7:24-28
Hebrews 7:23,28
Hebrews 8:6,13
Hebrews 9:19-22
Hebrews 9:11-14
Hebrews 10:10
5. Jesus’ actions and words caused quite a stir according to the account we have looked at today. Not only did Jesus declare that the sins of the paralyzed man were forgiven, but Jesus referred to Himself as the Son of Man. In the Old Testament book of Daniel a prophecy was spoken concerning the Son of Man. This was understood to be an expression used to designate the long awaited Messiah. Please end by reading Daniel 7:13,14 and allow your spirit to be encouraged by the truths expressed here. What is prophesied about the Son of Man in these verses? Continued on the next page. 54
Lesson 6
After Jesus healed the paralyzed man, Mark recorded that all of the people were amazed and began to glorify God. To glorify God is to give a correct estimate of who He is. Please spend some time meditating on your present circumstances, asking yourself how you can glorify God. The hymn “Come, Thou Almighty King” refers to God as King as well as the Ancient of Days, a phrase used in Daniel 7:13. If you know this hymn, close by singing its words as a song of worship before the Lord God, glorifying Him with these truths. “Come, Thou Almighty King” Come Thou Almighty King, help us Thy name to sing, help us to praise, Father all glorious, o’er all victorious, come and reign over us, Ancient of Days! Come, Thou Incarnate Word, gird on Thy mighty sword, our prayer attend: come and Thy people bless, and give Thy word success – Spirit of holiness, on us descend. Come Holy Comforter, Thy sacred witness bear in this glad hour: Thou who almighty art, now rule in ev’ry heart – and ne’er from us depart, Spirit of pow’r. To Thee, great One in Three, eternal praises be, hence, evermore: Thy sov’reign majesty may we in glory see, and to eternity love and adore! By Felice de Giardini
Days 3 and 4 – Mark 2:13-22 1. In the next two days, you will continue to study Mark’s Gospel, and the spiritual discipline of fasting, which is always joined with the discipline of prayer. Fasting was common among the Jewish people of the first century. Asceticism was the term that originated centuries ago to describe the lifestyle of someone who practiced severe self-denial and austerity. The lifestyle of an ascetic person included fasting. Some Christians fast on a regular basis, perhaps in place of one meal a week or for a twenty-four hour period each week. Some believers have fasted at certain times in their life, on a specific occasion, for a specific reason. Some Christians have never felt led to fast. Many believers have questions concerning this spiritual discipline. Pray as you begin your study in the word asking God to reveal His truth to your spirit. Now begin with these observation questions. • Where was Jesus in today’s passage? •
According to Mark 2:13, who was involved and what was taking place?
•
Who was introduced in Mark 2:14 and what was shared about him?
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Lesson 6
2.
•
Why did Mark say that Jesus was eating dinner with “many tax collectors and sinners”?
•
What was implied by the question of the scribes and the Pharisees in Mark 2:16?
•
Why did Jesus say that He had come?
•
What contrasts were made in Mark 2 about fasting?
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
1342 dikaios dikaious Mark 2:17 6685 Hebrew tsowm
Righteous, equitable (in character or act), by implication innocent or holy, just… Fasting, from 6684 tsuwm, to cover the mouth. To Israel, the Day of Atonement was a day of fasting. Fast, to abstain from food (religiously)
Romans 3:10 (Psalm 14:1-3)
Pharisees, a separatist, i.e. exclusively religious; a Pharisoean, i.e. Jewish sectary. The largest and most influential religious party during the New Testament times.17
Mark 7:3
3522 nesteuo nesteuousin Mark 2:18 5330 pharisaios pharisaioi Mark 2:24
2 Samuel 12:22 Acts 13:2,3
3. In Mark 2:13, Jesus called Levi to be His disciple. Read in the other two Gospels where this is also mentioned. What else do you see about this event? a. Matthew 9:9 b. Luke 5:27-32
17
Trent C. Butler, Holman Bible Dictionary, Nashville, Holman Bible Publishers, 1991, p. 1103. 56
Lesson 6 4. Look at the two Gospels where this same event in Mark 2:18-22 is shared. What was written in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke that add to Mark’s account? a. Matthew 9:14-17
b. Luke 5:33-39
5. When studying the New Testament, part of good biblical interpretation is to look in the Old Testament to where the same theme was addressed. What was the Old Testament understanding of the spiritual discipline of fasting? What do you learn about fasting from these verses? Who fasted and why?
What was involved in the fast?
What was the outcome?
a. Psalm 35:13,14
b. Ezra 10:6 c. Isaiah 58:1-14
6. 2 Chronicles 20 records the account of King Jehoshaphat leading the kingdom of Judah when many enemies came to make war against them. Look at this incident. Jehoshaphat’s plan:
What took place after this?
What was proclaimed about God here?
One of my favorite phrases in the Old Testament is found at the end of 2 Chronicles 20:12, because it reminds me that when I do not know what to do I am to look to God. 57
Lesson 6 7. In Matthew 6:16-18 Jesus contrasted the spiritual discipline of fasting for His disciples with the fasting of the hypocrite. How is fasting different for these two? Fasting for a disciple of Christ:
Fasting as a hypocrite:
Jesus knew the hearts of people when He addressed them. What was the motive involved in these people’s hearts and what was promised to them? The motive and the promise made to the disciple who fasts:
The motive and the promise made to the hypocrite who fasts:
8. Please read the following account and consider these questions regarding fasting. Most Bibles have put Matthew 17:21 in brackets because the verse is not in all the manuscripts used for New Testament translation. (The NIV does not include the verse.) Some say the verse was added after Matthew completed his Gospel, and others claim it was omitted from later manuscripts. According to Matthew 17:14-21, what can happen when someone prays and fasts?
9. The Pharisees who lived in the first century fasted two times a week. Please keep that in mind as you read this passage of Scripture and examine Christ’s teaching concerning the practice of fasting. What is the contrast Christ made between the individuals who fast? The Pharisees: Luke 18:9-14
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Christ’s disciples:
Lesson 6 10. The early church established the season of Lent, as a six-week prelude to Easter. The joy of Easter was to be balanced by the deprivation of a fast. Some have trivialized the season of Lent to a time of refraining from dessert, or chocolate, or even chewing gum. Part of the rational for fasting goes back to God requiring a fast of Adam and Eve in His command that they not eat the fruit of one tree in the Garden of Eden. Their fast was broken in their attempt to be like their Creator. For mankind to fast sets aside one’s natural inclination to want more. God’s sovereignty is acknowledged when man accepts limits in his own life. During a fast, man acknowledges his dependence on God because a fast requires that one surrender to God every part of their being. Our hunger is a reminder to us of God’s faithfulness and His provision. Day by day, God sustains us. Jesus told us to pray for our daily bread. While one is fasting one’s hunger reminds them of the Lord, and the need one has for Him. A food fast can be in one of three specific ways: a. A normal fast involves abstaining from all food, solid or liquid, but not from water. Some would begin a 24-hour fast after an evening meal, until the next day’s evening meal, while others would fast from the lunch meal until the next day at lunch. b. A partial fast involves a restriction in one’s diet, but not complete abstinence. Some will take in only fruit juice during a partial fast. c. An absolute fast is abstaining from food and water. Fasting is not recommended while someone is sick, traveling, or under stress. Those with an on-going illness or a limiting physical condition should not fast without the advice of a physician. Stormie Omartian wrote, “fasting is a spiritual exercise during which you give yourself completely to communication with God. You do not fast to get Him to love you (He will love you whether you fast of not). It is a time to draw close to Him, sensitize your soul to His Spirit and know He is working mightily on your behalf.”18 What has God revealed to you today concerning the spiritual discipline of fasting, and especially as it relates to prayer?
What difference will these Scriptures on fasting make in your own life? Will you allow the word to be “useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that the person who belongs to God may be complete and thoroughly equipped for every good work”? 2 Timothy 3:16,17.
Day 5 – Mark 2:23-28 1. Today you will finish Mark 2! Today you will also be asked to think about the spiritual discipline of worship. Because of the disciplines of solitude and prayer, most would consider this to be corporate worship, coming together with other believers and focusing your heart and mind on the worthiness of God. In the nation of Israel, people worshipped God in the temple in Jerusalem, and they were directed to go there for the feasts and holy days that 18
Stormie Omartian, “Fasting is Wind Under Wings of Prayer,” Virtue Magazine, March/April, 1992, p. 39. 59
Lesson 6 God had established with Israel as Moses led His people. Then the Jewish leaders established the synagogue system to provide a place for the people to learn God’s word. At the time of Christ the synagogues read and taught the sacred writings that had been handed down over the centuries, which included the Law as well as the singing of poetry. Do you regularly come together with other believers and worship the Lord? Do you assign worth to Him as your Creator and Redeemer. Open in prayer allowing your heart to worship God before you open His holy word. Begin with these observation questions. • Where and when did today’s event take place? •
What were the Pharisees concerned about in today’s passage?
•
What Old Testament example did Jesus give as His reply to the Pharisees and why?
•
What truths did Jesus announce in Mark 2:27,28? The Sabbath: Man: The Son of Man:
2.
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
4521 sabbaton sabbasin Mark 2:23 (From the Hebrew word Shabbath.) 4286 prothesis protheseos Mark 2:26
Sabbath, day of weekly repose from secular avocations (also the observance or institution itself), by extension …the interval between two Sabbaths; … Sabbath (day), week Presence, a setting forth, i.e. figuratively, proposal (intention); specifically the show-bread (in the Temple), … purpose High priest, a chief priest, chief of the priests. … He “appeared before God to make intercession for the people.”19 Priests, a priest (literally or figuratively): (high) priest. “A sacred person, as serving at God’s altar but not implying that he is holy.”20
1 Corinthians 16:2 (first day, NASB)
749 archiereus archiereos Mark 2:26 2409 hiereus hiereos Mark 2:26
19
Zodhiates, p. 893. Ibid., p. 922. 60 20
Ephesians 3:11 (purpose, NASB)
Hebrews 5:1 Hebrews 10:11
Lesson 6 Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
2962 kurios kurios Mark 2:28 1656 eleos eleos Matthew 12:7 6942 Hebrew qadash Exodus 20:8
Lord, supreme in authority, i.e. as controller, by implication Mr. (as a respectful title): God, Lord, master, Sir Compassion, (human or divine especially active), (+tender) mercy. This pertains to Question 3 below. Holy, to make, pronounce, or observe as clean (ceremonially or morally): appoint, bid, consecrate, dedicate, defile, hallow, (be, keep) holy (-er, place), keep prepare, proclaim, purify, sanctify (-ied one, self), wholly
Mark 12:29 Titus 3:5 Genesis 2:3 (sanctified, NASB)
3. Now look at the record of Mark 2:23-28 in Matthew 12:1-8 and Luke 6:1-5. As you read these other accounts, jot down the additional information that Matthew and Luke shared. (Note the word study included from Matthew 12:7.)
4. God spoke to His people through Moses after they left their bondage in Egypt, and in Exodus 20 we are given the record of the foundation for the Law. Read Exodus 20:1-11 to see the first commandments given to the people of Israel. Write out the commandment concerning the Sabbath in Exodus 20:8. Now look at Exodus 20:9-11 to see the specific instructions given.
After reading these verses, write out how you would summarize what was revealed about God’s character in this passage.
5. David was God’s anointed and when King Saul turned against him, he and his men were forced to stay away from Saul and his men in order to survive. 1 Samuel 21:1-6 provides the record of David and the consecrated bread that Jesus referred to in Mark 2:25,26. Read this account to see David’s interaction with the priest. In the passage following, Saul ordered his men to kill the priests at Nob because they helped David. Doeg the Edomite killed eighty-five priests. 1 Samuel 22:20 introduced Abiathar as the son of Ahimelech. Some have translated the Mark verse as “in the time of Abiathar, the one who (later) became high priest.” Abiathar did serve as priest after Ahimelech was murdered. 61
Lesson 6 Saul was upset that David asked for bread to eat from the priest at Nob. From today’s passage, what was Jesus’ response to this event in 1 Samuel 21:1-6?
What did Jesus declare about the Sabbath in today’s verses?
6. The Pharisees sought to help Israel “keep the Ten Commandments” during the time of foreign rule. By the time of Christ each of the commandments had a set of (additional) “rules” that the Pharisees wrote to answer the people’s questions about how they were to live. From the “Ten Commandments” came a list of 613 commands called the Mishnah. These laws are recorded in the rabbinic writings (of the Rabbis), but not in either the Old Testament or the New Testament. The Pharisees were very concerned that the Hebrew people keep the Sabbath holy. If you have not already looked at the word study for holy in Question 2, please look at that now. When the Pharisees told Jesus that picking grain on the Sabbath was not lawful, they were referring to the laws of the Pharisees, and not to laws that God had established for His people. After Jesus was crucified, He was resurrected on the first day of the week. The early Christian church began to gather together for worship on the first day of the week to commemorate Christ’s resurrection. Look at these two Scriptures to see what they tell the early church about how they were to relate to others and why they were to do this. a. Ephesians 5:18c-21
b. Hebrews 10:24,25
God modeled that the Sabbath was a day of rest in Exodus 20:11. God told the nation of Israel to “remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy,” in Exodus 20:8. Do you think that there is an eternal principle in this issue of keeping the Sabbath holy? How do you “remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy”? What is the pattern of your life concerning this day of worship? “Take Time to Be Holy” Take time to be holy, speak oft with the Lord; abide in Him always and feed on His Word. Make friends of God’s children, help those who are weak, forgetting in nothing His blessing to seek. Take time to be holy, the world rushes on; spend much time in secret with Jesus alone. By looking to Jesus, like Him you will be – your friends in your conduct His likeness will see. Take time to be holy, let Him be your guide, and run not before Him, whatever betide. In joy or in sorrow still follow the Lord, and looking to Jesus, still trust in His Word. By William D. Longstaff and George C. Stebbins
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Lesson 7
Lesson 7 – Mark 2 Review, Mark 3:1-27 Introduction This week you will complete the study of Mark 2 and then begin your study of Mark 3. This week will also look at the spiritual discipline of service. What did this mean to Christ’s disciples and what is this discipline to mean to us today?
Day 1 – Mark 2 Review 1. As you review Mark 2, it is good to take some time to ruminate on this portion of Scripture that you have studied. Let your mind dwell on God’s message to you. Open in prayer asking God for His wisdom so that you will grasp the truths that He has for you from Mark 2. • Look at the sheet in the Appendix entitled “Evidence of Jesus Christ in The Gospel According to Mark.” As you read through Mark 2, select some of the words that Jesus spoke, and record them on the chart. • 2.
Now look at the different ways Jesus was addressed or what He was specifically called in Mark 2 and list those on the chart. Now look at what Jesus did in Mark 2 and list some of Jesus’ actions on the chart.
3.
As a part of your review, please consider the themes that are seen in Mark 2. What is the evidence in Mark 2 that reveals the heart of Jesus? Review the chapter asking God to help you see Jesus’ heart. Record this information on the “Evidence…” chart. Now jot down a key event from Mark 2 that gives you a picture of Jesus. Please take some time to meditate on what you have recorded, and looking back over the chapter again, write down in the last column what this means to you personally. Before you finish your time today, jot down some of the phrases and/or verses that you have memorized from Mark 2.
Is there something you are to do today to demonstrate your obedience to the Lord? What do you need to do about this?
Close by singing a song of praise, thanksgiving, or commitment as an act of worship before the Lord. 63
Lesson 7
Day 2 – Mark 3, Comprehensive Chapter Study 1. Today you will begin the observation of Mark 3. Remember you will always begin a new chapter in this way. You can refer to the sheets in the Appendix entitled Inductive Study Methodology for help with the inductive observation process. Open in prayer asking for the Lord’s help. • Read Mark 3 paying attention to the key words that were used. Mark the key words and then make a list of what is being stated about the key word. You can place these lists directly on the Scripture Worksheets in the right-hand margin under the heading of the key word, or place your lists on a separate sheet of paper. Now please list the key words in Mark 3 here.
2. As you read Mark 3, you can also look for contrasts and comparisons that were used by Mark. Write these here in the space provided, and/or mark your Scripture Worksheets in some way to show these contrasts and comparisons. Contrasts (to show differences/opposites)
Comparisons (to show similarities and connections, using the words as or like)
3. Remember one way to see the message of Scripture is to look at how the author communicated truth. As Mark’s Gospel is an example of biographical narrative, it contains many declarative statements. The chapter begins with an example, found in Mark 3:1-3a. Jesus spoke words of instructions to several in Mark 3. Read Mark 3:3b,5d,12,13b. Mark this in some way on your Scripture Worksheets. As I read through Mark 3, I saw several places where Jesus spoke words of exhortation, as personal messages to those around Him. Read Mark 3:28,34b,35 and then mark these as exhortations. The remainder of Mark 3 was written as declarative statements. Read these verses and if you agree, mark these verses in this way. 4. Look for terms of expression that help you understand time, with words like “now, then, later,” etc. and mark these in a consistent way. Another means of understanding language is to examine the way verbs are used in writing. A simple explanation of verbs is that they are words that express action or the state of being, and they relate the words communicated within a framework of time. Verbs communicate that something is happening at the moment, or has happened in the past, or will happen in the future. (The verbs in the preceding sentence are in italics.) Verbs can also announce that an event has already taken place and the results of that event are continuing at the present time. 64
Lesson 7 Please take the time to read Mark 3 looking for the different verb tenses that were used, noting in the left hand margin references to the future, the present, or the past. This can add another dimension to your study, not because you will be studying verbs, but this will help you see what God has done in the past, what He is doing in your life today, as well as show you what the future holds. 5. Mark words that express conclusion or show results or purpose with words like “for,” “for this reason,” “so that,” and “because.” Words that express conclusion are important to note because they show why the author wrote what he wrote and help you see the promises or consequences that will come. 6. Part of completing the Comprehensive Chapter Study is to acknowledge those portions of the chapter that bring questions to your mind. I am certain that you have some questions about what you have studied today in Mark 3! Thank the Lord for His provision of the Holy Spirit who will guide you into God’s truth. Thank the Lord for His faithfulness. May the words of this song bless your spirit as you continue in your commitment to study Mark’s Gospel. “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father! There is no shadow of turning with Thee; Thou changest not - Thy compassions, they fail not: as Thou hast been Thou forever wilt be. Chorus: Great is Thy faithfulness! Great is Thy faithfulness! Morning by morning new mercies I see; all I have needed Thy hand has provided – Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord unto me! Summer and winter and springtime and harvest, sun, moon, and stars in their courses above, join with all nature in manifold witness to Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love. Chorus: Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth, Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide, strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow – blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside! Chorus: By Thomas O. Chisholm and William M. Runyan
Day 3 – Mark 3:1-12 1. In the next few days the lessons will look at the spiritual discipline of service. We can look to Jesus who modeled the heart of a servant during His earthly ministry. Open your time in the word by praying that the Lord will illuminate His holy word, helping you as you study. Begin with these observation questions. • Where and when did the first event of Mark 3 take place? •
What was revealed about Jesus’ feelings in today’s passage?
•
Who rose up against Jesus according to Mark 3:6?
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Lesson 7
2.
•
How did the experience in Mark 3:1-6 influence the events that followed in Mark 3:712?
•
What do you learn about the people coming to Jesus in Mark 3:7-10?
•
Why do you think that Mark included this miracle in his Gospel account?
•
How is Mark 3:11,12 different from Mark 1:23-26?
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
3709 orge orges Mark 3:5
Anger, desire (as reaching forth or excitement of the mind), i.e. (by analysis), violent passion (ire, or [justifiable] abhorrence); by implication punishment: indignation, vengeance, wrath Deeply hurt, to afflict jointly, i.e. (passively) sorrow at (on account of) some one: be grieved Hardness, stupidity or callousness, blindness
John 3:36
Herodians, partisans of the Herodes; loyal to Herod, the family line that Rome appointed to rule Israel. This group included Sadducees and scribes.
Used three times in the New Testament. Mark 12:13
4818 sullupeo sullupoumenos Mark 3:5 4457 porosis porosei Mark 3:5 2265 herodianoi herodianon Mark 3:6
Hapax legomen. (The only place this word was used in the New Testament.) Used three times in the New Testament. Ephesians 4:18
3. The event of Mark 3:1-6 is also told in Matthew 12:9-14 and Luke 6:6-11. Please read these passages and record any additional information from these Gospels. a. Matthew 12:9-14 b. Luke 6:6-11
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Lesson 7 4. In the scribal interpretation of the Law known as the halakha, the question of whether it was lawful “to save a life” on the Sabbath was addressed. “Whenever there is doubt whether life is in danger this takes precedence over the Sabbath.”21 How did Jesus interpret the Sabbath law in Mark 2:23-28 and 3:1-6?
5. Mark revealed the heart of Jesus in Mark 3:5. Look at this passage to see the contrast that reveals Jesus’ attitude toward people. a. Jesus’ attitude toward the b. Jesus attitude toward the man Pharisees and Herodians: with the paralyzed hand: Paul said that we are “to be angry but sin not” in Ephesians 4:26. How did Jesus model this command given to the Christian church?
I was thinking about the challenge that each believer has concerning serving in the body of Christ. As we consider the spiritual discipline of service, please read and then write your personal response to Romans 12:1,2. What was said about service in this passage?
Regarding the call to spiritual service, ask God to reveal to you your heart toward Him and His family. You might close by singing or reading the words of the hymn “Cleanse Me” as your prayer before the Lord. “Cleanse Me” Search me, O God, and know my heart today; try me, O Savior, know my thoughts, I pray. See if there be some wicked way in me; cleanse me from ev’ry sin and set me free. Lord, take my life and make it wholly Thine; fill my poor heart with Thy great love divine. Take all my will, my passion, self and pride; I now surrender, Lord in me abide. O Holy Ghost, revival comes from Thee; send a revival – start the work in me. Thy word declares Thou wilt supply our need; for blessings now, O Lord, I humbly plead. By J. Edwin Orr
Day 4 – Mark 3:13-21 1. As you look at today’s passage you see the ultimate call to spiritual service. Those who were teachers at the time of Christ’s ministry always had followers whom were called disciples. This was common among the Greek philosophers as well as the Hebrew Rabbis. 21
Lane, Ibid., p. 123. 67
Lesson 7 As Mark tells of the gospel of Jesus Christ, he added a unique dimension to this concept of being a disciple. Open by praying that the guidance of the Holy Spirit would instruct and convict you of God’s holy and precious truth. Begin with these observation questions. • What was said about the twelve men in Mark 3:13-15?
2.
•
Would you be able to tell someone the names of the twelve disciples? Look over the list and see how you could list the names or group the names to help you remember these twelve. Keep this in mind as you list the names of the disciples given in Mark 3:16-19 and record what was said about the men Jesus appointed in these verses.
•
What impact did the people have upon Jesus according to Mark 3:20?
•
What was said about Jesus’ family in this passage?
Please examine this word study for a key word used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
649 apostello apostello Mark 3:14
Apostles ISV and NIV, set apart, by implication to send out (properly on a mission) literally or figuratively, put in, send (away, forth, out), set [at liberty] Cananaean ISV and KJV, of Chaldean origin, zealous, Cananites, as an epithet; zealot NASB
1 Corinthians 1:17
2581 kananites kananaios Mark 3:18 68
Used twice in the New Testament. Matthew 10:4
Lesson 7 3. Now read the naming of the twelve disciples in Matthew 10:1-4 and Luke 6:12-16 and add any details that you discover to help you remember information about the disciples. 4. Think about what it would have been like for the family of Jesus to live in the northern region of Israel while Jesus was ministering to the people. Read what the apostle John wrote in John 7:1-5 about Jesus’ family. Record your response to these two accounts of Jesus’ family. a. Mark 3:20,21 b. John 7:1-5
5. Different versions of the Bible translate words, phrases, and even sentences differently. In Mark 3:14 the ISV translation used the phrase “whom he called apostles.” The NIV used the phrase “designated them apostles.” The Greek text would be translated as “and he made twelve that they might be with him, and that he might send them to proclaim” without using the word apostle because it is not in the actual text. The verb used is to send, as defined in Question 2. (The noun form of the word is apostolos (Strong’s number 652) translated as apostle.) Look at how the word apostello was used in these New Testament verses, answering the questions who was sent and why? You should read the verses in their context, (in the paragraph where they are given) to see how this word was used. a. Luke 1:19 b. Act 3:20,26 c. Acts 9:17 d. Acts 26:17 d. Acts 28:28
6. Mark 3:18 gave the name of Simon the Cananaean, who was also known as Simon the Zealot. The Zealots were a group of Hebrew men who acted with zeal on behalf of their nation. These men, from time to time tried to overthrow the foreign rulers who reigned over Israel. Knowing what you know about Jesus’ disciples, what is significant about Jesus choosing someone from this “radical” group of men to be one of His disciples? Continued on the next page.
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Lesson 7 This week we are looking at the spiritual discipline of service. How are Christians to serve God? How are you to serve the body of Christ, His church? Part of serving the Lord is to take on the attitude of humility and to desire the heart of a servant. Do you have the heart of a servant? What does that look like to you? What is the opposite of that, and what does that look like? a. Someone with a servant heart: b. Someone without a servant heart:
In Mark 3:5 Mark recorded that Jesus was “deeply hurt” because He saw the hardness of heart of some people. The word for hardness was also used as stupidity, callousness, or blindness. David asked God to search his heart in Psalm 139:23,24. Please close by reading these verses to see David’s questions before God and then his request. Are you willing to read these verses as your prayer before the Lord so that you can serve Him as He intended?
Day 5 – Mark 3:22-27 1. As we continue in Mark’s Gospel we will also continue with the study of the spiritual discipline of service. Reflect back on Psalm 139:23,24 allowing these words to be your opening prayer and then read John 8:31-36 thinking about how these verses relate to serving the Lord. Now look at today’s passage in Mark and begin with these observation questions. • Here is an interesting geographical note that is still true for the nation of Israel. Jerusalem is at a higher elevation that most of the surrounding country, so the people would say that they were going “up” to Jerusalem no matter where they were coming from. In Mark 3:22 we read that “the scribes who had come down from Jerusalem kept repeating…” For us, since Jerusalem is south of Galilee, we would say that the men came “up” from Jerusalem. Israel still speaks of Jerusalem as “up” from the rest of the country.
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•
What was said about the scribes in Mark 3:22?
•
What “literary device” did Jesus use to answer the scribes’ accusation according to Mark 3:23?
•
In Matthew 3:2 John the Baptist said, “the kingdom of God is at hand.” Jesus also said this in Mark 1:15. How was the word kingdom used in Mark 3:24?
•
Who are the individuals involved in Jesus’ explanation?
Lesson 7 2.
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
954 beelzeboul beelzeboul Mark 3:22
Beelzebul, of Chaldean origin; a dunggod, a name of Satan; Beelzebub, KJV
Luke 11:15 (mark this for later.)
3850 parabole parabolais Mark 3:23
Parables, a similitude, i.e. (symbol) fictitious narrative, (of common life conveying a moral), apothegm or adage: comparison, figure, proverb
Mark 4:2
3. Once again we will look at the Gospels of Matthew and Luke to see the same passage that was presented in Mark 3:22-27. Look at these two passages to gain any additional insight into today’s verses. a. Matthew 12:22-29 b. Luke 11:14-22
4. Mark told us that scribes came from Jerusalem and this is significant. The Jerusalem Council (the Sanhedrin) probably sent these scribes to investigate what they had heard about Jesus who was teaching and healing in the city and region of Capernaum. At the time that Christ lived, the nation of Israel still followed the laws given in the Torah (the first five books of the Bible). Some scholars have suggested that the Council was considering taking action against the city of Capernaum. Look at Deuteronomy 13:12-18 and briefly summarize the instructions that God gave to His people concerning a city that was seduced by false teachers.
5. In Mark 3:22, the scribes said that Jesus “has Beelzebul.” Both the Latin and Syriac language translate the word Beelzebul as Beelzebub. Biblical scholars associate the New Testament word Beelzebul with the Old Testament word Baal-zebub. Please read 2 Kings 1 and reflect on the understanding that the Hebrew people had concerning Baal-zebub. What was the contrast that Elijah made in 2 Kings 1?
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Lesson 7 6. In Mark 1:8, John the Baptist said, “The one who is coming after me is stronger than I am.” Look at how Jesus used the word “strong” in Mark 3:27. To understand whom Jesus referred to as a “strong man” you need to read the entire paragraph where this phrase was used. How would you explain the identity of the “strong man”? In Mark 3:27 Jesus used the phrase “his possessions,” and many believe that is in reference to those individuals who live in bondage to Satan. Jesus came to earth and Satan has been tied up. In the future, Satan’s final destruction will come. Some biblical scholars see a connection with today’s passage that was made in Isaiah’s prophecy. Please read Isaiah 49:24-26 to see what God promised and to whom this was promised.
As we think about the spiritual discipline of service, ask yourself this question, “Whom do I serve?” Do you serve the Lord and His church or do you serve yourself? Some would say that if you are not serving the Lord God you are serving Satan. With whom do you associate? When the apostle Paul wrote to the churches in Galatia he expressed his concern about the church listening to another gospel being spread by devoted Jewish Christians who misunderstood the gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul wrote in Galatians 1:10, “Am I now trying to win the approval of people or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be Christ’s servant.” God gives freedom to serve Him, but one does not find freedom when the motivation to serve is for the approval of others. The acronym of S.H.A.P.E. has been used to help believers determine their purpose within the body of Christ. Please consider these five dimensions that you might see your place of service in the body of Christ. S: Each believer has been gifted with a spiritual gift that is to edify the body of Christ. H: One’s heart and passion leads believers. A: God has also gifted each believer with abilities and talents that we might serve others. P: The impact of your personality on how you relate to people. E: The impact of experiences from your past. Please spend some time thinking about your “S.H.A.P.E.” for service. Does your service bring you joy? Is it the desire of your heart to edify others in the body of Christ? I was raised in a Christian church that sang the “Doxology” every Sunday morning. If you know this song, you might close by singing this as your praise before the Lord. “Doxology” Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; praise Him, all creatures here below; praise Him above, ye heavenly host; praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen. By Thomas Ken and Louis Bourgeois
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Lesson 8
Lesson 8 – Mark 3:28-35, Mark 3 Review, Mark 4 Introduction This week you will complete the study of Mark 3 and then begin your study of Mark 4. As you move through the lesson, you will also look at the spiritual discipline of guidance. What does this mean to Christ’s disciples? I see a practical reference to this idea at the end of Mark 3 when Jesus said, “whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother.” I have been adopted as a child of God and long to have an intimate relationship with my Savior, Jesus Christ and live in His will. Some who have done this inductive Bible study have been encouraged by the reminders to memorize Scripture. Others have said that they “were never good at memorizing,” so the reminders have discouraged them. Still others have even felt guilty by the call to Scripture memorization. Some put all memorization projects in the same category however, memorizing portions of the works of Shakespeare is NOT the same as memorizing Scripture. Committing portions of Scripture to memory has a very significant impact on my faith.
Day 1 – Mark 3:28-35 1. At the end of today’s lesson you will consider the spiritual discipline of guidance. Who or what do you allow to guide your life? What impact does God’s word have on your life? Please pray the truths of Isaiah 50:4,5 as your prayer of praise and thanksgiving. This is a Messianic prophecy. As believers we have been given the mind of Christ and we are to be in the process of being conformed to the image of Christ, for the sake of others. Isaiah wrote, “The Lord God has given Me the tongue of disciples, that I may know how to sustain the weary one with a word. He awakens Me morning by morning, He awakens My ear to listen as a disciple. The Lord God has opened My ear; and I was not disobedient, nor did I turn back.” Today’s lesson includes a look at Mark 3:28,29 a very important truth (written as a warning). Begin by reading today’s passage and consider these observation questions. • What was Jesus’ exhortation of Mark 3:28 and His warning in Mark 3:29? a. Jesus’ exhortation: b. Jesus’ warning:
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What was said about Jesus’ mother and brothers in Mark 3:21 and then in Mark 3:3135? a. Mark 3:21 b. Mark 3:31-35
•
Who did Jesus say were His brother, sister, and mother in Mark 3:34,35?
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Lesson 8 2.
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
281 amen amen Mark 3:28
Truly ISV and NASB, firm, trustworthy; as an adverb, surely (often as the interjection so be it): amen, verily KJV Blasphemies, vilification, (especially against God), evil speaking, railing
Used 14 times in Mark, and always when Jesus had something important to say!
988 blasphemia blasphemese Mark 3:28 2307 thelema thelema Mark 3:35
Will, a determination (properly, the thing), i.e. (actively) choice (specifically, purpose, decree; abstractly, volition) or (passively) inclination: desire, pleasure
Mark 14:64 John 5:30
3. When you completed the Comprehensive Chapter Study of Mark 3 in an earlier lesson, you looked for contrasts in Mark’s writing. To gain a better understanding of Mark 3:28,29 please read each of these passages and record the contrasts the Gospels give based on the themes that were covered. Scriptures: Mark 3:28,29, Matthew 12:30-32, and Luke 12:10
4. In the Greek language, blasphemy meant abusive speech and personal mockery toward another. In the Hebrew language, blasphemy was always in relationship to God22. Look again at the context of Jesus’ words that were in response to the accusations that the scribes “kept repeating.” The scribes’ accusations (Mark 3:22): Jesus’ response (Mark 3:28,29):
22
Bromiley, Ibid., p. 107. 74
Lesson 8 5. The person who has committed sin and is dominated by the sin ignores the work of the Holy Spirit, denying the power of God’s provision. When one is troubled over their sin, they are acknowledging the ministry of the Holy Spirit to convict of sin and righteousness and the coming judgment. “A person so insensitive to the Spirit that he attributes what is of God to demonic origin will not be conscious of having committed the ultimate transgression.”23 Those who are troubled about the sin they have committed need to follow God’s word in obedience to what He says needs to be done. I thought of several verses that provide clear instructions and examples of our responsibility concerning sin. You might know these verses from memory, briefly summarize what a Christian is to do because of sin. a. Psalm 139:23,24 b. 1 John 1:9 c. Matthew 6:14 d. Galatians 5:16 The early church knew that the apostle Paul told Timothy to have two men who had rejected their faith handed over to Satan so that they would be taught not to blaspheme (in 1 Timothy 1:20). However in the same chapter, Paul wrote about his own time as a blasphemer. Read (in 1 Timothy 1:12-16) what Paul said about his personal life, as to why he was spared from the consequences of his sin.
6. Now look at what was written in Matthew and Luke that are the same accounts as Mark 3:31-35. What was added in these two Gospels? a. Matthew 12:46-50 b. Luke 8:19-21
7. At the time of Christ, the nation of Israel knew that the Lord anointed prophets, priests, and kings with His Holy Spirit. The 400 years before Jesus came is known as a time of silence, when God did not send a prophet to represent Himself before the people. Then John the Baptist came to proclaim that the time had come for the Messiah. At the time of the events of Mark 3, there were two who were on the earth who were anointed with the Holy Spirit, John the Baptist and Jesus. Continued on the next page.
23
Lane, Ibid., p. 146. 75
Lesson 8 Jesus said that whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit can never have forgiveness, but is guilty of eternal sin. This has been called the unpardonable sin. In the context this sin would be attributing to Satan or demons what has been accomplished by the Holy Spirit. After Jesus ascended to heaven the unbelieving Sanhedrin wrote that Jesus of Nazareth “was hanged on the day of preparation for the Passover because he practiced sorcery and led the people astray.”24 These Jewish leaders did not attribute to the Holy Spirit the miraculous healing and deliverance of Jesus Christ. Our understanding now of the Holy Spirit is so much broader than in the first century, before the Holy Spirit was sent to indwell those who follow Jesus Christ. We can look at the work and nature of the Holy Spirit, and see God’s provision and His power. One role of the Holy Spirit is to guide believers in the truth. What is meant by truth? It is everything that God has said through His word and through His Son Jesus Christ. When we are faced with decisions we are to be sensitive to God’s will. It is never acceptable to live in disobedience to God’s word. Is sin acceptable if it serves a higher good, that is to help someone? An example would be when people protected the persecuted Jewish people by lying to keep someone from being killed. Augustine of the early church said that when you cannot decide what is God’s will, check your heart to see if you love the Lord with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength. And then Augustine said that when you love the Lord with all of your being, the disciple of Christ can do whatever they like. Because Jesus said that the heart is deceptively wicked, we must be very careful with Augustine’s approach to knowing God’s will. One way of determining God’s will is as follows: 1. Pray to God for wisdom, James 1:5; James 3:17,18 2. Seek eternal truth from the Scriptures, Psalm 117:1,2; 2 Timothy 3:16,17 3. Listen to the counsel of godly people, Proverbs 11:14; Proverbs 15:22 4. Surrender to the guidance of the indwelling Holy Spirit, John 16:13 A major theme that runs through Psalm 119 is the place that God’s word is to have in the life of those who follow Him. Psalm 119:11 says, “Thy word I have treasured in my heart that I might not sin against Thee.” Psalm 119:20 says, “my soul is consumed with longing after Thine ordinances at all times.” After consulting God’s word for His will, to whom do you go for guidance? Do others see in you godly qualities that would draw them to come to you for guidance? Close by praying for the Lord to reveal His wisdom and His will to you as you continue in this study of Mark’s Gospel. Great is God’s faithfulness, His covenant love and compassion is new every morning.
24
TB Sanhedrin 43a (Baraitha), Lane, Ibid., p. 142. 76
Lesson 8
Day 2 – Mark 3 Review 1. As you review Mark 3 today, let your mind dwell on God’s message to you. A woman who spent time reviewing Mark 1 said she had not realized how many phrases she had memorized from the chapter until she filled out the “Evidence” chart. Open your time in the word by praying for God’s wisdom and the guidance of the Holy Spirit so that you will see the truths that have been prepared for you from Mark 3. • Look at the sheet in the Appendix entitled “Evidence of Jesus Christ in The Gospel According to Mark.” As you read through Mark 3, select some of the words that Jesus spoke, and record them on the chart.
2.
•
Now look at the different ways Jesus was addressed or what He was specifically called in Mark 3 and list those on the chart.
•
One dimension of Mark 3 has to do with the contrasts in the chapter showing who were in agreement with Jesus and those who were not in agreement. These individuals would “fit” into groups, how would you summarize this? a. Those in agreement: b. Those not in agreement:
Now look at what Jesus did in Mark 3 and list some of Jesus’ actions on the chart.
3. As a part of your review, please consider the themes that are seen in Mark 3. These themes might be expressed in a simple phrase. Write these out here.
What is the evidence in Mark 3 that reveals the heart of Jesus? Review the chapter asking God to help you see Jesus’ heart. Record this information on the “Evidence…” chart. Now jot down a key event from Mark 3 that gives you a picture of Jesus. Please take some time to meditate on what you have recorded, and looking back over the chapter again, write down in the last column what this means to you personally. Before you finish your time today, jot down some of the phrases and/or verses that you have memorized from Mark 3.
Is there something you are to do today to demonstrate your heart toward the Lord? What do you need to do about this? 77
Lesson 8
Day 3 – Mark 4, Comprehensive Chapter Study 1. Today you will begin the observation of Mark 4. Each time you begin a new chapter you will follow the same process. You can refer to the sheets in the Appendix entitled “Inductive Study Methodology” for help with the inductive observation process. Open in prayer asking for the Holy Spirit to illuminate your spirit so that you will see what God has for you in His holy word. • Read Mark 4 paying attention to the key words that were used. Mark the key words and then make a list of what is being stated about the key word. You can place these lists directly on the Scripture Worksheets in the right-hand margin under the heading of the key word, or place your lists on a separate sheet of paper. Now please list the key words in Mark 4 here.
2. As you read Mark 4, you can also look for the contrasts and comparisons that were used by Mark. Write these here in the space provided, and/or mark your Scripture Worksheets in some way to show these contrasts and comparisons. (Parables are given to show comparisons, so pay special attention to the contrasts and comparisons Jesus made in His parables.) Contrasts (to show differences/opposites)
Comparisons (to show similarities and connections, using the words as or like)
3. Remember one way to see the message of Scripture is to look at how the author communicated truth. As Mark’s Gospel is an example of biographical narrative, it contains many declarative statements. The chapter begins with an example, in Mark 4:1,2. As you read through the chapter keep in mind that declarative statements are phrases or sentences that describe events of narrative. 78
Lesson 8 Throughout Mark 4 you also find instructions. While you read the chapter look at Mark 4:3,9,24,39 and mark these in some way. Mark 4 records some of Jesus’ teaching in parables. You looked at the definition of the word parable in the last lesson. Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance defined the literary genre of the parable as a similitude, i.e. (symbol) fictitious narrative, (of common life conveying a moral), apothegm (“a short, forceful saying, a maxim”)25 or adage: comparison, figure, or proverb. Please read what was said about Jesus’ teaching with parables as it has been explained in Mark 4:11,12,22-25,33,34. Mark the key words in these verses to help you see what Mark was saying. As I read through Mark 4, I read Mark 4:24c,25a as words of exhortation, personal messages to those hearing Jesus’ words. Mark these exhortations in some way. The remainder of Mark 4 was written as declarative statements. Read these verses and if you agree, mark these verses as declarative statements. 4. Now please look for terms of expression that help you understand time, with words like “now, then, later,” etc. and mark these in a consistent way. Another means of understanding language is to examine the way verbs are used in writing. A simple explanation of verbs is that they are words that express action or the state of being, and they relate the words communicated within a framework of time. Verbs communicate that something is happening at the moment, or has happened in the past, or will happen in the future. (The verbs in the preceding sentence are in italics.) Verbs can also announce that an event has already taken place and the results of that event are continuing at the present time. Please take the time to read Mark 4 looking for the different verb tenses that were used, noting in the left hand margin references to the future, the present, or the past. This can add another dimension to your study, not because you will be studying verbs, but this will help you see what God has done in the past, what He is doing in your life today, as well as show you what the future holds. 5. Mark words that express conclusion or show results or purpose with words like “for,” “for this reason,” “so that,” and “because.” Words that express conclusion are important to note because they show why the author wrote what he wrote and help you see the promises or consequences that will come. 6. At the end of Mark 4, the disciples were tested by the circumstances of life, and they were frightened in the midst of a storm on the Sea of Galilee. Jesus admonished His disciples and asked them, “Why are you such cowards?” Jesus also asked His disciples “Don’t you have any faith yet?” Do you remember when you first began to follow Jesus, and your faith was not very strong? The nation of Israel heard psalms read and recited when they gathered in the synagogue for teaching. In reading Psalm 62, I thought of what the disciples knew of their God. According to Psalm 62 God was known as their rock, their salvation, their stronghold, their hope, their glory, their strength, and their refuge. Psalm 62 is one of many psalms that we can read when we are “feeling” a bit shaky in our faith. Continued on the next page.
25
Barnhart, Ibid., p. 98. 79
Lesson 8 I have written a simple prayer in response to the end of Mark 4. You might join with me in this prayer. Please close with your own prayer to the Lord. “Father God, help me when I feel cowardly to trust in You. Father God, help me accept Your purpose and Your timing for circumstances that are grievous. I worship and praise You because You alone are worthy and moment by moment You provide everything I need. Father God, Your covenant love (lovingkindness, mercy, and compassion) is new every morning. I rest in the truth that Your covenant love is everlasting and that You have never left me and You will never leave me or forsake me. In the name of Your blessed and holy Son, My Savior Jesus Christ, Amen.”
Days 4 and 5 – Mark 4:1-20 1. In studying Mark 4, we will study several of Jesus’ parables. The literary genre of the parable was not new with Jesus. Parables were commonly used in the literature of the ancient near east. The Greek philosophers Homer, Plato, and Aristotle each used parables in their writing and teaching. The Old Testament included parables and one will be examined in Question 3 in this part of the lesson. Those who have studied the writings of the Jewish Rabbis disagree on the timing of the Rabbi’s use of parables. Some say that the writings of the Rabbis at the time of Christ included parables. Other biblical scholars say that the Jewish Rabbis only began to write in parables after the time of Christ’s ministry. This in itself is interesting to think about. The Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) provide the majority of Jesus’ parables. Some look at Jesus’ ministry and count between thirty-five and forty parables. Some parables are very short, even as long as only one verse (Mark 2:21), and some of Jesus’ parables were lengthy, as the parable of the “prodigal son” in Luke 15:11-32. Open your time in the word in prayer, and then begin with these observation questions. • Where was Jesus when he taught and why was He there?
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•
Sometimes people read a parable and ask, “What does that mean?” You need to keep reading, because sometimes the Gospel author recorded what Jesus told His disciples about the meaning of the parable! Look at the chart on the next two pages and write what Jesus said in Mark 4:3-9 and then add His words of explanation that followed.
•
Now please look at what Mark said about Jesus’ use of parables. Read Mark 4:11,12,22-25,33,34 and consider sketching a simple picture, or making a chart to show the message Mark portrayed.
Lesson 8
Jesus’ Teaching in a Parable (Mark 4:1-20) Mark 4:3 __________________________________________________________________ 1.) The seed and where it fell: Mark 4:4
What took place:
Jesus’ explanation for His disciples: The seed and where it fell: What took place: Mark 4:15
2.) The seed and its environment: Mark 4:5,6
The consequences:
Jesus’ explanation for His disciples: The seed and its environment: The consequences: Mark 4:16,17
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Lesson 8 3.) The seed and its environment: Mark 4:7
The consequences:
Jesus’ explanation for His disciples: The seed and its environment: The consequences: Mark 4:18,19
4.) The seed and its environment: Mark 4:8
The results:
Jesus’ explanation for His disciples: The seed and its environment: The results: Mark 4:20
Mark 4:9 __________________________________________________________________ Mark 4:14 _________________________________________________________________ 82
Lesson 8 2.
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
3466 musterion musterion Mark 4:11 3379 mepote mepote Mark 4:12
Secret ISV, mystery, (through the idea of silence imposed by initiation into religious rites) Otherwise ISV, not ever; also if (or lest) ever (or perhaps): if peradventure, lest NASB, KJV, (at any time, haply), not at all, whether or not Word, something said, including the thought, by implication, a topic (subject of discourse) also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive,… communication,… utterance
Romans 16:25
3056 logos logon Mark 4:17
Mark 14:2
John 1:1,14
3. Now look at Matthew and Luke’s records of the parable of the sower, and add any information that was not a part of Mark 4:1-9. a. Matthew 13:1-9 b. Luke 8:4-18 1.) 2.) 3.) 4.) Jesus’ explanation of the parable in Mark 4:13-20 is also found in Matthew and Luke. Read these passages and add any other information. a. Matthew 13:18-23 b. Luke 8:11-15 1.)
2.)
3.)
4.) 83
Lesson 8 4. In Mark 4, we are given an explanation of the purpose of the parables. Read these other passages and note what they say. a. Matthew 13:10-17 b. Luke 8:9,10
5. A parable in the Old Testament that many are familiar with was told by the prophet Nathan when he confronted King David in 2 Samuel 12:1-5. Read this and look at David’s response. How did God use this parable?
Keep this in mind as you study the way in which Jesus used parables. 6. Matthew, Mark, and Luke all quoted the Old Testament in their explanation of why Jesus taught in parables. (Isaiah 5:1-7 shares the beginning of a parable that expresses the heart of God.) Please read the following Scriptures and summarize the condition of Israel, the prophecy spoken against them, and what you see that reveals the heart of God. The condition of Israel: The prophecy spoken against Israel: God’s heart: Isaiah 1:2-20,6:9,10
Jeremiah 5:14-21
John 12:37-43
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Lesson 8 7. Think about how Jesus’ teaching in parables relates to what you read about Jesus’ teaching in Mark 1,2, and 3. Please put into your own words a simple explanation to describe Jesus’ reason for teaching in parables.
8. Please take the time to go back to the chart on pages 81 and 82 and mark in some way what contributed to the seed not producing and how this took place. As you go through this parable think of someone you know personally, or think of a people group in this world and pray for the salvation of this person or these people. How can you remember to pray for those who do not know Jesus as their Savior? Ask God to help you make an association that would become your reminder.
To make this parable more personable, think of different times and events in your life that influenced the kind of soil represented in your heart. You might draw a “timeline” of your life that shows this.
________________________________________________________________________
Think of the evidence of “the condition of your soil” today. What is the fruit that is evident in your life?
You might close by singing this song as your prayer before the Lord. “Open My Eyes” Open my eyes, that I may see glimpses of truth Thou hast for me; place in my hands the wonderful key that shall unclasp and set me free. Chorus: Silently now I wait for Thee, ready my God, Thy will to see; open my eyes – illumine me, Spirit divine! Open my eyes, that I may hear voices of truth Thou sendest clear; and while the wave–notes fall on my ear, ev’ry-thing false will disappear. Chorus: Open my mouth, and let me bear gladly the warm truth ev’ry-where. Open my heart and let me prepare love with Thy children thus to share. Chorus: By Clara H. Scott
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Lesson 8
ABBOTT ILLUSTRATED NT, 19, USA, PARABOLE OF THE SOWER
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Lesson 9
Lesson 9 – Mark 4, Mark 5 Introduction This week you will complete the study of Mark 4 and begin Mark 5. I thank the Lord for what we are learning as we continue to study His holy word. This week you will also study the spiritual discipline of submission. Obedience to God always involves submission to His will. Remember Jesus’ words in Mark 3:35, “For whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother.” Paul said in Romans 12:2 that God’s will is “proper, pleasing, and perfect.” Oh, that our heart would long for God’s will, and that we would be sensitive to His leading. Bruce Wilkinson writes, “God has a dream for everyone, but that we often avoid it because of our fears or because of ‘border bullies,’ who discourage us from leaving our comfort zones to follow that dream.” Also he says “there are always ‘giants’ to overcome in achieving one’s dream.” With this in mind I pray, “Thank You Lord that You empower Your children to serve and to submit to Yourself. I thank You Lord that I can trust You as You are faithful in all things.”
Days 1 and 2 – Mark 4:21-34 1. We continue in Mark 4, the parable chapter! This portion of the lesson will look at the next two parables that Mark recorded. Open by reading Mark 4:21-29 and ask God to help you understand these parables as you study. Begin with these observation questions. • What was the contrast Jesus made about a lamp in Mark 4:21?
•
Why are some truths “hidden” or “secret” according to Mark 4:22? a. hidden (indirect revelation) b. secret
•
What do Jesus’ exhortations in Mark 4:23 and 4:25a, His instruction in Mark 4:24, and His warning in Mark 4:25b mean to you personally? a. Jesus’ exhortations:
b. Jesus’ instruction: c. Jesus’ warning: •
Mark 4:26-29 provides the only biblical record of this parable of the seed. The mysterious process of the seed sprouting, growing, and maturing is not the point of this parable. Why was the seed sown?
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Lesson 9 •
What did Jesus say about the kingdom of God in Mark 4:31-32? You might draw a simple picture for your answer.
•
What does Mark 4:33,34 tell you about the remaining of Jesus’ ministry?
2. The passage being studied today contains words that are straight forward, so there are no word studies in today’s lesson. 3. Please read what Jesus said about light in Matthew 5:14-16. What connection did Jesus make here about light?
Read what Luke recorded about light in these two passages. What is asked of those who “light” a lamp and what warning is given concerning the light? a. Luke 16-18
b. Luke 11:33-36
4. Please read what the apostle John said about Jesus in John 1:1-8. One way to learn about something is to put into your own words what you have read or studied. Take the time to paraphrase what John said about Jesus.
Now look at what Jesus said about Himself and what He promised to His followers in John 8:12.
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Lesson 9 5. Some biblical scholars believe that Jesus’ parables should be interpreted by only looking for one meaning in the parable, rather than analyzing every aspect or detail of the “proverb.” Some say that “artistic motives” appear in Jesus’ parables as He used details that were not necessary to His actual message.26 In the parable of the seed, who scatters the seed? Who harvests the ripe grain? How would you explain Mark 4:27 in the context of the parable?
The word harvest is used as a symbol of the end of the age in both the Old Testament and New Testament. An example of this would be what was written in Joel 3:13. Read this verse and then look at how the idea of harvesting was used in the setting shared in Joel 3:917.
6. Jesus’ parable of the mustard seed completes the parables of Mark 4. This parable is not to be confused with Jesus’ illustration of the mustard seed that will be looked at later. Read Matthew and Luke’s accounts of the parable of the mustard seed, and then record any additional information from these Gospels. a. Matthew 13:31,32 b. Luke 13:18,19
7. The focus of one of Jesus’ Mark 4 parables was the light that comes from a lamp. In studying the fruit of the Spirit, (in Galatians 5:22,23) one must also look at Paul’s teaching to the people of Ephesus in Ephesians 5:6-10. This passage encourages me in my walk with the Lord and challenges me daily. According to this passage, who are you, what are you to be, and what are you to do?
Continued on the next page.
26
Cranfield, Ibid., p. 168. 89
Lesson 9 A Christian song says “Give me oil in my lamp, keep me burning, burning, burning.” God has provided what we need to keep burning for Him. Our role in this is to submit to God and “keep on being filled with the Holy Spirit,” as stated in Ephesians 5:18-20. As Jesus spoke in parables, some believe that this was to “lure” people who would not listen to the truth, with pictures. Jesus gave His audience pictures “to explain His mission, not to prevent their coming, but to hasten their steps, and lure them toward the heart of God.”27 The Jewish rabbis wrote a “parable of the lamp,” that can be found in the Rabbinic writings called Tosefta Sukkah 2:6. Think about this parable written by Jewish rabbis. “When the luminaries are eclipsed, it is an ill omen to the whole world. Unto what is the matter like? It is like a king who made a banquet and summoned guests. He became angry with them and bade the steward remove the lamp from before them, so that they were all sitting in darkness.”28 Years ago while serving in a position at a high school, the desire of my heart was to be a testimony of God’s grace and love to others. I worked with a woman who said that I represented “goodness and light” to her. She asked questions about my faith. The truth is that she was seeking peace and was open to God and drawn toward His presence in my life. Others I met while in this same job did not want to know about my relationship with the Lord, and they let it be known that they were not interested. I thank the Lord that I was able to glorify God as I served in my community. Children are still learning the song, “This little light of mine, I’m going to let it shine, all around my neighborhood, I’m going to let it shine. Don’t let Satan blow it out, I’m going to let it shine.” Think about the last time you were with people who do not believe in Jesus Christ. Did you allow the light of Jesus to shine in you and through you? If not, think about what you allowed to cover, hide, or keep secret your light. How does the Lord want you to respond to this?
In Mark 4 Jesus spoke of those who did not perceive or understand His message. After the apostle John recorded Jesus’ declaration that He was the light of the world, John shared the miracle of the man who had been born blind receiving sight from Jesus. You will be blessed if you can take the time to read John 9 to see Jesus’ response to the man born blind, and the Jewish leaders response to this man himself, and his parents. a. Jesus’ response to the blind man:
b. The Jewish leaders response: Continued on the next page.
27
G. Campbell Morgan, The Gospel According to Mark, New York, Fleming H. Revell Co., 1927, p. 96. Harvey K. McArthur and Robert M. Johnston, They Also Taught in Parables, Grand Rapids, Academie Books, 1990, p. 21. 90 28
Lesson 9 In closing, please read James’ words to the early church concerning a disciple of Christ attitude toward God and Satan. What is taught about the spiritual discipline of submission in this passage, and what promise is made to believers in James 4:6-10?
You might take the words of this passage in James and make this your prayer, praising the Lord, confessing your frailties and sin, thanking Him for His goodness, and asking Him for what you need to be more submissive to His will. (This prayer encompasses the prayer acronym, ACTS; adoration, confession, thanksgiving, and supplication.)
Day 3 – Mark 4:35-41 1. Today you will look at the event that brought Mark 4 to a close. If you have ever been in a storm while on a body of water, you might have some understanding of the event at the end of Mark 4. As you open ask the Lord for the illumination of the Holy Spirit upon this passage of the Gospel so that you might see Jesus even more clearly. Remember that the beginning of inductive Bible study usually involves the “5 Ws and an H” questions. Keep this in mind as you consider these observation questions. • Where and when did the event of today’s lesson take place according to Mark? •
Who was involved in this event?
•
What was the circumstance that was described in Mark 4:37?
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What was Jesus doing according to Mark 4:38, how did He respond to the circumstance, and how did He respond to the disciples? Jesus’ response to the circumstances: Jesus response to His disciples:
•
What was shared about the disciples in this passage?
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Why do you think Mark included this event in his Gospel?
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Lesson 9 2.
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
1169 deilos deiloi Mark 4:40
Cowards ISV, timid, i.e. (by implication) faithless: fearful KJV
Used three times in the New Testament. Matthew 8:26 Revelation 21:8
5399 phobeo ephobethesan 5401 phobos phobon Mark 4:41
Overcome with fear, ISV. 5401: to be put in fear, alarm or fright, be afraid, exceedingly, fear, terror. 5399: to frighten, i.e. (passive) to be alarmed; by analysis, to be in awe of, i.e. revere; be (sore) afraid, fear (exceedingly), reverence. This is a unique phrase translated from two words, each a form of the word fear. Placed together they emphasize each other, giving a sense of the disciples exceeding fear.
5399: 1 John 4:18
5401: Romans 3:18
3. As you read the accounts in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke, write the key words in these passages that give you an understanding of this event. a. Matthew 8:23-27
b. Luke 8:22-25
4. After Jesus’ ascension the ship became a symbol of the early church to its members. Think about why that would be so and explain what that means to you in light of Mark 4:3541. You might answer this with a simple sketch, or a poem, or your reflection.
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Lesson 9 5.
How did Jesus admonish His disciples according to Mark 4?
Do you remember when you first began to follow Jesus, and your understanding of your Savior was not great? The nation of Israel heard psalms read and recited when they gathered in the synagogue for teaching. In reading Psalm 62, I thought of what the disciples knew of their God. According to Psalm 62 God was known as their rock, their salvation, their stronghold, their hope, their glory, their strength, and their refuge. Psalm 62 is one of many psalms that we can read when we are “feeling” a bit shaky in our faith. Jesus used the illustration of a mustard seed in Matthew 17:20 to teach His disciples about faith. You had looked at this passage earlier, but please read this to see how Jesus taught about faith in this passage of Matthew. What does this say to you in light of the message in Mark 4?
This week we have been looking at the spiritual discipline of submission. Read what Paul wrote about submission in Ephesians 5:18-21. What does this call you to do?
I have written a simple prayer in response to the end of Mark 4. You might join with me in this prayer, and then close with your own prayer to the Lord. “Father God, help me when I feel cowardly to trust in You. Father God, help me accept Your purpose and Your timing for circumstances that are grievous. I worship and praise You because You alone are worthy and moment by moment You provide everything I need. Father God, Your covenant love (lovingkindness, mercy, and compassion) is new every morning. I rest in the truth that Your covenant love is everlasting and that You have never left me and You will never leave me or forsake me. In the name of Your blessed and holy Son, My Savior Jesus Christ, Amen.”
Day 4 – Mark 4 Review 1. Proverbs 25:2 says, “It is the glory of God to conceal a thing; but the glory of kings is to search out a matter.” God chose to not fully reveal Himself to His people, and then Jesus came and revealed His Father to mankind. We have the revelation of God through Christ as it has been recorded for us through the work of the Holy Spirit in the ministry of the apostles. John opened his first epistle with an amazing declaration. Read 1 John 1:1-4 and thank the Lord for what He has revealed to you through His Holy and precious word and humbly and gratefully seek His wisdom as you review Mark 4. 93
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2.
•
Look at the sheet in the Appendix entitled “Evidence of Jesus Christ in The Gospel According to Mark.” As you read through Mark 4, select some of the words that Jesus spoke, and record them on the chart.
•
Now look at the different ways Jesus was addressed or what He was specifically called in Mark 4 and list those on the chart. Now look at what Jesus did in Mark 4 and list some of Jesus’ actions on the chart.
3. Think about the themes and the closing event of Mark 4. How does this relate to what was shared in Mark 1, 2, and 3?
4. What is the evidence in Mark 4 that reveals the heart of Jesus? Review the chapter asking God to help you see Jesus’ heart. Record this information on the “Evidence…” chart. Jot down a key event from Mark 4 that will help you remember the message of this chapter. Please take some time to meditate on what you have recorded, and looking back over the chapter again, write down in the last column what this means to you personally. Before you finish your time today, take the time to record some of the phrases and/or verses that you have might have memorized from Mark 4.
The words of this hymn came to me when I was meditating on the messages of Mark 4. If you know this song you might close by singing this, or read the words as your prayer before the Lord. “My Faith Looks Up to Thee” My faith looks up to thee, Thou Lamb of Calvary, Savior divine! Now hear me while I pray, take all my guilt away, O let me from this day be wholly Thine! May Thy rich grace impart strength to my fainting heart, my zeal inspire; as Thou has died for me, O may my love to Thee pure, warm, and changeless be, a living fire! While life’s dark maze I tread and griefs around me spread, be Thou my guide; bid darkness turn to day, wipe sorrow’s tears away, nor let me ever stray from Thee aside. By Ray Palmer and Lowell Mason
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Day 5 – Mark 5, Comprehensive Chapter Study 1. Today you will begin the observation of Mark 5. Open in prayer asking for the Holy Spirit to illuminate your spirit so that you will see what God has for you in His holy word. • Read Mark 5 paying attention to the key words that were used. Mark the key words and then make a list of what is being stated about the key word. You can place these lists directly on the Scripture Worksheets in the right-hand margin under the heading of the key word, or place your lists on a separate sheet of paper. Now please list the key words in Mark 5 here.
2. As you read Mark 5, you can also look for contrasts and comparisons that were used by Mark. Write these here in the space provided, and/or mark your Scripture Worksheets in some way to show these contrasts and comparisons. Contrasts (to show differences/opposites)
Comparisons (to show similarities and connections, using the words as or like)
3. Remember one way to see the message of Scripture is to look at how the author communicated truth. In Mark 5 you also find some instructions. Read Mark 5:7,8b,19b,36,41 and mark these as instructions. As I read through Mark 5, I read Mark 5:34 as an exhortation, a personal message to this woman who heard Jesus’ words. Mark this exhortation in some way. I think that Jesus spoke an admonishment to Jairus in Mark 5:36. Write this out here and ask God what He would want you to do personally with this admonition. I think that the rest of Mark 5 was written as declarative statements, since so much of the chapter includes phrases that declare the events and truths of Jesus’ ministry. 4. Now please look for terms of expression that help you understand time, with words like “now, then, later,” etc. and mark these in a consistent way. Another means of understanding language is to examine the way verbs are used in writing. A simple explanation of verbs is that they are words that express action or the state of being, and they relate the words communicated within a framework of time. Verbs communicate that something is happening at the moment, or has happened in the past, or will happen in the future. (The verbs in the preceding sentence are in italics.) Verbs can also announce that an event has already taken place and the results of that event are continuing at the present time. Please take the time to read Mark 5 looking for the different verb tenses that were used, noting in the left hand margin references to the future, the present, or the past. This can 95
Lesson 9 add another dimension to your study, not because you will be studying verbs, but this will help you see what God has done in the past, what He is doing in your life today, as well as show you what the future holds. 5. As you read through Mark 5, mark words that express conclusion or show results or purpose with words like “for,” “for this reason,” “so that,” and “because.” Words that express conclusion are important to note because they show why the author wrote what he wrote and help you see the promises or consequences that will come. 6. This week you finished Mark 4 and have now just begun Mark 5. I thank the Lord for what we are learning as we continue with our study. This week you looked into the spiritual discipline of submission, and specific instructions in the Bible that teach of this discipline. The nation of Israel was told to obey God. Exodus 19:5 says “If you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be My own possession among all the peoples, for all the earth is Mine.” Moses and the priests were told to remind the people of Israel as they were about to enter the Promised Land that they were to “Be silent and listen, O Israel! This day you have become a people for the LORD your God. You shall therefore obey the LORD your God, and do His commandments and His statutes which I command you today,” Deuteronomy 27:9,10. Pastor Peter Marshall wrote concerning sin, “We are too Christian to really enjoy sinning and too fond of sinning to really enjoy Christianity. Most of us know perfectly well what we ought to do, our trouble is that we do not want to do it.” How does your heart respond to Pastor Marshall’s comment?
Close in prayer concerning your heart toward God and His desire that you be submissive to Him and His word.
Jesus Apasant La Tempete By Moreau Le Jeune
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Lesson 10 – Mark 5 Introduction This week we will study Mark 5 as well as the spiritual discipline of celebration. As I was studying this chapter I thought of the response of the individuals that Jesus encountered and impacted in Mark 5. When I imagined myself as any of these individuals, or the family, friends, or community associated with them, I thought of the act of praising God and the difference that this spiritual discipline makes in my life. I was convicted a while ago about times when I have prayed for God to intervene in situations over extended periods of time and then when the prayers were answered I simply thanked God for the blessing of His answer. My conviction came as I recognized that I did not praise God and give Him glory for the answer to my prayers of supplication. I want to pray thanking God with as much fervency as I pray in petition to Him. I want to faithfully praise God for His faithfulness. I do not want to be self-absorbed and miss God’s answers to my prayers.
Day 1 – Mark 5:1-20 1. You have already observed today’s account in Mark 5, and today you will take a closer look at this unique event. Open in prayer asking God for His eyes to see His truth, and that the heart of Jesus would be revealed to you through this account. Begin with these observation questions. • Where had Jesus and the disciples been earlier (Mark 2:1, Mark 3:20), and where did the event of Mark 5:1-20 take place? •
How was the man with the unclean spirit described in Mark 5:2-5?
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According to Mark 5:6-10: How did the man respond to Jesus? What did the man call Jesus? What did the man ask of Jesus?
•
What did the unclean spirits ask of Jesus?
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What happened to the unclean spirits?
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2.
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How did the man who had had the unclean spirits respond according to Mark 5:1520?
•
What impact did Jesus’ actions have upon the community?
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
3726 horkizo horkizo Mark 5:7
Command ISV, to put on oath, i.e. make swear, by analysis to solemnly enjoin, adjure, charge; implore NASB
Used three times in the New Testament. Acts 19:13
3003 legeon legion Mark 5:9,15 Luke 8:30
Legion, i.e. a Roman regiment. Those in the Roman legion were considered the “best soldiers in the army…” a legion numbered between 4,500 and 6,000.29 Merciful, to be compassionate (by word or deed, specifically by divine grace): have compassion (pity on), have (obtain, receive, shew) mercy (on); mercy NASB, compassion KJV
Used four times in the New Testament. Matthew 26:53
1653 eleeo eleesen Mark 5:19
Mark 10:47,48
3. Both Matthew and Luke give an account of the demon possessed on the other side of the Sea of Galilee. Matthew says this took place in the country of the Gadarenes. Mark and Luke say that this was in the country of the Gerasenes. These were in the area known as Decapolis in the first century. Decapolis comes from the Greek words deca meaning ten and polis meaning city. The (Gentile occupied) towns of Gadara and Gerasa were both south east of the Sea of Galilee. The event of Mark 5:1-20 could have taken place in between these two cities. The region of Decapolis covered quite a large expanse of land, mostly east of the Sea of Galilee and the Jordan River, but also to Scythopolis, west of the Jordan River. Read to see what other information Matthew and Luke contain, and notice what event this follows in the other two synoptic Gospels. a. Matthew 8:28-34 b. Luke 8:26-39
4. When the nation of Israel was moving through the wilderness after leaving the bondage of Egypt, God gave them specific instructions concerning how they were to live. Israel took the laws concerning what was clean and what was unclean very seriously. Before 29
Mike Mitchell, “Legion,” Holman Bible Dictionary, Nashville, Holman Bible Publishers, 1991, p. 872. 98
Lesson 10 the time of Christ, a leader of the conquering Greeks brought a pig into the temple to desecrate what Israel considered sacred. Read Leviticus 11:1-4,7,8 to see what was said about pigs in God’s law.
5. Imagine what it was like living in Israel in the first century. The Roman Empire had spread throughout the entire “known” world. Gentile farmers lived in the land promised to the nation of Israel. These Gentile people practiced a religion that included a belief in many gods. The people of Canaan had their own system of gods, and then the Greeks conquered the land and introduced their “cultic” system of worship. Those who did not worship Yahveh, the Creator of the universe, worshipped a multiplicity of gods believing that these controlled the elements of nature, including the god of the sun, the god of the moon, the god of the water, the god of the harvest, etc. (Gentile) farmers asked their gods for bountiful harvests and a plentiful production from their animal herds. These Gentile farmers were known as pagani (a Latin word), and this was later shortened into the English word pagan. When I read Mark 5:1-20 I had many questions that cannot be answered through the passage or in Matthew and Luke. What does the story in Mark 5:1-20 tell you about Jesus?
What does this event tell you about your choices in life? What does this tell you about your position as a follower of Christ?
Why do you think that Mark included this event in his Gospel?
This week we will look at the spiritual discipline of celebration. Dallas Willard wrote that the spiritual disciplines are “exercises unto godliness,… activities undertaken to make us capable of receiving more of His life and power without harm to ourselves or others.” The disciplines for the spiritual life involve activities “undertaken to bring us into more effective cooperation with Christ and His kingdom.”30 As Christians we are to discipline ourselves to celebrate. That is a unique thought. How do you celebrate your faith in Christ? How do you celebrate your position as a child of God, one chosen and beloved, adopted into God’s family? Continued on the next page.
30
Dallas Willard, The Spirit of the Disciplines, HarperSanFrancisco, 1990, p. 156. 99
Lesson 10 Imagine that you were the man Jesus helped in Mark 5:1-20. How did he celebrate?
What an incredible blessing that those who follow Christ have been set free from the bondage of sin. The apostle Paul wrote about this in Romans 6. These truths are always an encouragement to me. 1 Chronicles 13:8 says that David and all of Israel were celebrating before God with all their might, even with songs, and with lyres, harps, tambourines, cymbals, and with trumpets. According to Strong’s Greek & Hebrew Dictionary the Hebrew word halal means to shine, (figuratively of God’s favour), to flash forth light, to praise, to boast, to be boastful, to be praised, to be made praiseworthy, to be commended, and to be worthy of praise. The Hebrew word hallelujah comes from the Hebrew words halal and the word yah, as the beginning of the word Yahveh, the sacred name for God. Some would say then that hallelujah is to say “hail Yahveh.” How does the world celebrate? Some shop, some eat, some dance, some drink… How do God’s children celebrate? By praising God, assigning Him worth, by thanking God for our Savior’s advent on earth. Do you know a song with the word hallelujah? My granddaughter loves a new Christian song that calls believers to celebrate by praising God, and the song includes the word hallelujah. How it brings joy to my heart to hear little Meena singing praises to God through this song.
Days 2 and 3 – Mark 5:21-43 1. In the next two days you will finish the study of Mark 5 that includes the account of two unique healings. Open in prayer asking that these events would not simply be the record of historical narrative, but that through these events you would see God’s power and God’s mercy. Begin with these observation questions. • What did Mark say about the crowd of people in Mark 5:21,24?
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After reading Mark 5:21-24, how would you describe Jairus?
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How and why was the woman of Mark 5 healed?
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What was the miracle associated with Jairus’ daughter?
Lesson 10 2.
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration: 752 archisunagogos
archisunagogon Mark 5:22
1320 didaskalos didaskalon Mark 5:35
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
Synagogue leader, director of the synagogue services, (chief) ruler of the synagogue; a “lay” official, “sometimes an honorary title for distinguished members of the synagogue.”31 Teacher, an instructor (generally or specifically), doctor, master. A name of respect, also given to the Hebrew scribes.32
Acts 13:15
Mark 4:38
3. The accounts of Mark 5:21-43 are also written about in Matthew and Luke’s Gospels. Please read these two and see what is added that Mark did not include for additional insight into these events. a. Matthew 9:18-26 b. Luke 8:40-56
4. Cleanliness was very important to the nation of Israel because of the laws that God had given to His people. “There were three ritual states - holy, clean (pure), and unclean (impure). Thus ceremonial cleanness was merely a neutral state between the impure and the holy… The intent of the laws of uncleanness was essentially theological and religious, to set forth obedience to the laws of Israel’s covenant Lawgiver because He had ordained them. However, this does not preclude a divine rational in the selection of unclean and clean animals, including hygienic reasons in at least some cases.”33 The Hebrew people were not to associate with what was considered unclean. Leviticus 15:25-30 addresses the area of what was necessary for a woman with a “chronic discharge” who was considered to be unclean. The passage begins a few verses earlier and reading from verse 19 will help you see the law that devout Israeli people would still be following at the time of Christ. Read these verses to consider the impact the healing had upon the woman who was healed. What was required of women and the other people in these two situations? a. Leviticus 15:19-24,33 b. Leviticus 15:25-30,33
31
Cranfield, Ibid., p. 183. Zodhiates, Ibid., p. 903. 33 John F. Walvoord and Roy B. Zuck, The Bible Knowledge Commentary, Victor Books, 1985, p. 190. 32
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Lesson 10 5. The death of a child in Israel was “strictly understood as a curse.”34 Death in the ancient near east was always accompanied by the presence of mourners who expressed their grief in loud wailing and in the tearing of their clothes. Imagine yourself at the home of the synagogue official when this man went to find Jesus. Imagine being in the same home when Jesus came as well as after Jesus left. The rabbis in Israel met to discuss what would be a sign of the long awaited Messiah. They decided that the Messiah would have the power to restore sight to someone who had been born blind and the Messiah would be able to raise someone from the dead. a. The atmosphere in the home before Jesus: b. The atmosphere in the home when Jesus arrived: c. The atmosphere in the home when Jesus left: 6. Mark recorded the actual Aramaic words that Jesus used when He healed the synagogue official’s daughter. Medical science has discovered from people who recover from comas, that the person can hear someone talking while they are in the coma. The daughter of the synagogue official was dead, and Jesus talked with her. Read Mark 5:4143 and consider what this tells you about Jesus.
The people gathered at the official’s home were mourning and then Jesus came. What a puzzle for those people who had come to their home because of what Jesus did and then because of what Jesus told the girl’s parents, according to Mark 5:43. There are people today who live in areas where they are persecuted for their faith in Jesus and they cannot shout from the rooftops their praises to the Lord God. Is there something that prevents you from praising God everyday, as you go through your day? What keeps you from praising God freely?
Psalm 104, Psalm 105, and Psalm 106 all end with the phrase, praise the Lord, using the Hebrew word hallelujah. Please read the last two verses of each of these psalms and look at what the people were to do and why. How was the Lord described? What were the people to do? a. Psalm 104:34,35 Continued on the next page.
34
Joe Haag, “Death,” Holman Bible Dictionary, p. 348. 102
Lesson 10 How was the Lord described? b. Psalm 105:44,45
What were the people to do?
c. Psalm 106:47,48
If you know this song, please close by singing this as your song of celebration before the Lord, or read the words out loud to demonstrate that your heart longs to praise God. “Blessed Assurance” Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine! O what a fore-taste of glory divine! Heir of salvation, purchase of God, born of His Spirit, washed in His blood. Refrain: This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all the day long; this is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all the day long. Perfect submission, perfect delight, visions of rapture now burst on my sight; angels descending bring from above echoes of mercy, whispers of love. Refrain: Perfect submission, all is at rest, I in my Savior am happy and blest; watching and waiting, looking above, filled with His goodness, lost in His love. Refrain: By Fanny Crosby and Phoebe P. Knapp
Day 4 – Mark 5 Review 1. Scripture records God message to His people to celebrate a feast of booths, for the generations to know what God had done for them while they were in the wilderness. Think of how the people in Mark 5 could celebrate Jesus’ power in their lives. As you approach the review of Mark 5, celebrate what God has done on your behalf and ask for His guidance through today’s lesson. • Look at the sheet in the Appendix entitled “Evidence of Jesus Christ in The Gospel According to Mark.” As you read through Mark 5, select some of the words that Jesus spoke, and record them on the chart. • 2.
Now look at the different ways Jesus was addressed or what He was specifically called in Mark 5 and list those on the chart. Now look at what Jesus did in Mark 5 and list Jesus’ actions on the chart.
3. What is the evidence in Mark 5 that reveals the heart of Jesus? Review the chapter asking God to help you see Jesus’ heart. Record this information on the “Evidence…” chart. Jot down a key event from Mark 5 that will help you remember the message of this chapter. Continued on the next page.
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Lesson 10 Please take some time to meditate on what you have recorded, write down in the last column what this means to you personally. Before you finish your time today, take the time to record some of the phrases and/or verses that you have might have memorized from Mark 5.
One way to learn about a concept is to write out an acronym for the word being studied. Please consider either of these questions and express that through an acronym or perhaps a poem that focuses on celebrating your faith. What does celebrating mean to you as a child of God? How can you praise God and celebrate? What does knowing Christ mean to you? C
E
L
E
B
R
A
T
E I thought of the words in this song after studying Mark 5. What wonderful truths have been declared in these words! Continued on the next page. 104
Lesson 10 “My Faith Has Found a Resting Place” My faith has found a resting place – not in device nor creed: I trust the Ever-living One – His wounds for me shall plead. Refrain: I need no other argument, I need no other plea; it is enough that Jesus died, and that He died for me. Enough for me that Jesus saves – this ends my fear and doubt; a sinful soul I come to Him – He’ll never cast me out. Refrain: My heart is leaning on the Word – the written Word of God: Salvation by my Savior’s name – salvation thru His blood. Refrain: My great Physician heals the sick – the lost He came to save; for me His precious blood He shed – for me His life He gave. Refrain: By Lidie H. Edmunds
Day 5 – Mark 6, Comprehensive Chapter Study 1. God told His people (in 2 Kings 23:21 and 2 Chronicles 30:23) that they were to celebrate a feast to Him so that they would remember His faithfulness. Will you allow your time in the word today to be your celebration of praise before the Lord for His faithfulness to you? Today you will begin the observation of Mark 6. Open in prayer asking for the Holy Spirit to illuminate your spirit so that you will see what God has for you in His holy word. • Read Mark 6 paying attention to the key words that were used. Mark the key words and then make a list of what is being stated about the key word. You can place these lists directly on the Scripture Worksheets in the right-hand margin under the heading of the key word, or place your lists on a separate sheet of paper. Now please list the key words in Mark 6 here.
2. As you read Mark 6, you can also look for contrasts and comparisons that were used by Mark. Write these here in the space provided, and/or mark your Scripture Worksheets in some way to show these contrasts and comparisons. Contrasts (to show differences/opposites)
Comparisons (to show similarities and connections, using the words as or like)
3. Now we will look at how Mark communicated the message of Mark 6. I think that most of Mark 6 was written as declarative statements. Remember that declarative statements include phrases that unfold the events and explanations of Jesus’ ministry as well as declare doctrinal truths. 105
Lesson 10 In Mark 6 you will find several instructions. Read Mark 6:8-11,25b,31,36,37a,38, 39,50c,e and mark these as instructions. 4. Now please look for terms of expression that help you understand time, with words like “now, then, later,” etc. and mark these in a consistent way. Another means of understanding language is to examine the way verbs are used in writing. A simple explanation of verbs is that they are words that express action or the state of being, and they relate the words communicated within a framework of time. Verbs communicate that something is happening at the moment, or has happened in the past, or will happen in the future. (The verbs in the preceding sentence are in italics.) Verbs can also announce that an event has already taken place and the results of that event are continuing at the present time. Please take the time to read Mark 6 looking for the different verb tenses that were used, noting in the left hand margin references to the future, the present, or the past. This can add another dimension to your study, not because you will be studying verbs, but this will help you see what God has done in the past, what He is doing in your life today, as well as show you what the future holds. 5. As you read through Mark 6, mark words that express conclusion or show results or purpose with words like “for,” “for this reason,” “so that,” and “because.” Words that express conclusion are important to note because they show why the author wrote what he wrote and help you see the promises or consequences that will come. 6. This week you finished Mark 5 and have now just begun Mark 6. I praise the Lord for what we are learning as we continue with the study of The Gospel According to Mark. This week you looked into the spiritual discipline of celebration. The apostle Paul wrote to the people in Philippi that they were to rejoice in the Lord always, and then Paul said again I say rejoice, in Philippians 2:4. One of my favorite passages in Scripture follows Paul’s command of Philippians 2:4. Read through Philippians 4:9 to see how you are to celebrate your faith in Christ Jesus.
Close by singing a song that helps you praise God and celebrate His goodness.
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Lesson 11
Lesson 11 – Mark 6 Introduction This week will focus on Mark 6 and the spiritual discipline of simplicity. Psalm 116:6 says that the Lord preserves the simple; and the psalmist then said that when he was brought low, God saved him. Many Christian denominations teach the discipline of simplicity as being part of a Christ-like lifestyle claiming that simplicity brings freedom. A verse from the old Shaker hymn reads: ‘Tis the gift to be simple, ‘tis the gift to be free, ‘tis the gift to come down where you ought to be, and when we find ourselves in the place just right, ‘twill be in the valley of love and delight.
It is said that those who live out the spiritual discipline of simplicity reflect that the discipline of simplicity is “an inward reality that results in an outward life-style.”35 Over the centuries those who have adopted a life of simplicity have attested to a closer walk with the Lord and personal fulfillment and satisfaction.
Day 1 – Mark 6:1-13 1. Do you remember the man with the unclean spirit who came to Jesus in Mark 1? When this man encountered Jesus in the synagogue in Capernaum he addressed Jesus as “Jesus of Nazareth.” The people in the Galilee region knew Jesus’ hometown, although Jesus was not in Nazareth many times after His ministry began in the Capernaum area. Open by praising God that the gospel message came to you and that He has helped you grow in the knowledge and grace of your Lord Jesus Christ. Thank the Lord for His faithfulness in illuminating His word through the ministry of the Holy Spirit. Begin with these observation questions. • According to Mark 6:1-6: Where was Jesus and what was Jesus doing in this place?
Who witnessed this event and what was the response that revealed the attitude of the witnesses?
How did Jesus respond according to Mark 6:4-6 and what does this event tell you about Jesus?
35
Richard Foster, Celebration of Discipline, HarperSanFrancisco, 1998, p. 81. 107
Lesson 11 •
According to Mark 6:7-13: What did Jesus expect of His disciples?
What were Jesus’ instructions for His disciples?
•
2.
How did Jesus’ experience in Nazareth contribute to the disciples’ training?
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
4678 sophia sophia Mark 6:2
Wisdom, (higher or lower, worldly or spiritual). “The knowledge of how to regulate one’s relationship with God; wisdom which is related to goodness.”36 Offended ISV & KJV, to entrap, i.e. trip up (figuratively stumble [transitively] or entice to sin, apostasy or displeasure): (make to) offend; took offense NASB & NIV Prophet, a foreteller (“prophet”); by analysis an inspired speaker; by extension a poet Miracle, specifically miraculous power (usually by implication a miracle itself): ability, abundance, meaning, might (-ily, -y, -y deed), (worker of) miracle (-s), power, strength, violence, mighty (wonderful) work; mighty work KJV Unbelief, faithlessness, i.e. (negative) disbelief (want of Christian faith), or (positive) unfaithfulness (disobedience) Authority, privilege, … force, capacity, competency, freedom, … mastery, delegated influence: jurisdiction, liberty, power, right, strength
Luke 2:40
4624 skandalizo eskandalizonto Mark 6:3 4396 prophetes prophetes Mark 6:4 1411 dunamis dunamin Mark 6:2,5
570 apistia apistian Mark 6:6 1849 exousia exousian Mark 6:7
36
Zodhiates, Ibid., p. 955. 108
Mark 4:17 (fall away ISV)
John 9:17 Mark 6:14
Mark 9:24 Mark 1:22,27
Lesson 11 3. Matthew and Luke also tell about Jesus’ teaching in Nazareth, although most biblical scholars believe that Luke’s account was set at a different time. Read both of these accounts and see what they each share about Jesus’ teaching in the synagogue in Nazareth. a. Matthew 13:53-58 b. Luke 4:16-21
4. In the Old Testament we are told about the unbelieving and disobedient people in Israel who rejected the message of God’s prophets. Jesus addressed the issue of a prophet’s message not being honored in Mark 6:4 when He spoke a proverb that has “parallels in both Jewish and Greek literature.”37 The principle of this proverb is that “familiarity breeds contempt.”38 Many have quoted Jesus’ words over the centuries. Because of the situation in Nazareth, Mark 6:5 tells us that there was something that Jesus could not do. Why was this? Reflect back on Jesus’ “work” that Mark shared earlier and note what was shared about the people involved in those events. I have included three of the earlier accounts for you. a. Mark 2:5 b. Mark 5:34 c. Mark 5:36 d. Now summarize the source of Jesus’ amazement concerning the people in Nazareth:
5. The account of Jesus sending out the twelve disciples follows His own teaching in the villages. Read Matthew and Luke’s passages to see what you learn from these two Gospels. a. Matthew 10:1,5-15 b. Luke 9:1-6
37
Frank E. Gaebelein, Editor, The Expositor’s Bible Commentary, Volume 8, Grand Rapids, ZondervanPublishingHouse, 1984, p. 665. 38 Ibid. 109
Lesson 11 6. It was customary for people of the ancient near east to extend hospitality to those who were traveling “through” their town. This hospitality involved offering the guests food, shelter, and protection. This Oriental custom was considered to be a duty for everyone, and among the nation of Israel it was considered to be a sacred duty. “Only the depraved would violate this obligation.”39 Look at the following Scriptures to see what is commanded and/or what is promised concerning hospitality. a. Hebrews 13:1,2 b. Romans 12:13 c. 1 Timothy 5:9,10 d. Titus 1:7,8 7. Think back to how Jesus healed people that came to Him or were brought to Him. There is no record of Jesus anointing anyone with oil, although this was a common practice at the time of Christ. Oil was typically applied to the skin as a medicinal remedy. Read James 5:14 to see another reference to anointing with oil. What did James command of the early church and how was this to be done?
8. Mark 6:7 tells us that Jesus called the twelve and began to send them out… The word apostle means “he that is sent.” Look at Jesus’ words recorded in John’s Gospel that explain His mission and what He has entrusted to His followers. a. John 6:43-46 b. John 7:28,29 c. John 8:18,26 d. Mark 3:14 9. Please look back to see who Jesus considered to be His family according to Mark 3:31-35. The apostle Paul wrote in Romans 12:2 (ISV) that the will of God is “proper, pleasing, and perfect.” In obedience to God as His child, I ask if what I want to do is Continued on the next page.
39
Lai Ling Elizabeth Ngan, Holman Bible Dictionary, p. 670. 110
Lesson 11 “proper” according to His standard. I want to “please” God by my lifestyle. I also want my actions to bring me closer to what is perfect in God’s eyes, that I might truly know completeness in Him. These are questions to be considered because I long to be “in the process of being conformed to the image of Jesus Christ for the sake of others.” Think of a situation in your life right now and ask yourself if the direction you want to go would be considered “proper, pleasing, and perfect” in God’s eyes. If you applied these qualities, how could you go in the direction taught by the psalmist in Psalm 1:1, to “not walk in the counsel of the wicked, nor stand in the path of sinners, not sit in the seat of scoffers”?
Please take the time to pray for those you know who respond to Jesus in unbelief. Deuteronomy 29:29 says that the “secret things belong to the LORD our God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our sons forever, that we may observe all the words of this law.” Part of the spiritual discipline of simplicity is to seek God’s kingdom first and long for His will in your life. In Mark 6:7-11 Jesus sent His disciples to go and live a simple life while they preached the gospel among the people. Please close by reading the words of this hymn and let these words encourage your spirit. “God Moves in a Mysterious Way” God moves in a mysterious way His wonders to perform; He plants His footsteps in the sea and rides upon the storm. You fearful saints, fresh courage take: the clouds you so much dread are big with mercy, and shall break in blessings on your head. Judge not the Lord by feeble sense, but trust Him for His grace; behind a frowning providence faith sees a smiling face. His purposes will ripen fast, unfolding ev’ry hour; the bud may have a bitter taste, but sweet will be the flow’r. Blind unbelief is sure to err and scan His work in vain; God is His own interpreter, and He will make it plain. By William Cowper; Scottish Psalter
Day 2 – Mark 6:14-29 1. Mark introduced us to the ministry of John the Baptist at the beginning of his Gospel and he comes back to this account of John’s life and death. Here is an event that proves that “bad things happen to good people.” Open in prayer asking God’s Holy Spirit to enlighten your time in the word and comfort your heart. Read today’s verses and begin with these observation questions. • What did Mark mean by the word “this” in Mark 6:14?
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Lesson 11 •
What were the three statements made concerning Jesus’ identity according to Mark 6:14,15? a. b. c.
2.
•
Did you wonder why Herodias had a name associated with Herod? She was in fact the daughter of Aristobolos, one of the sons of Herod the Great. This would mean that Herodias was named for her grandfather, Herod the Great, and she was the niece of Herod Antipas as well as his wife. Why was John the Baptist arrested?
•
What was Herod’s attitude toward John the Baptist according to Mark 6:20,26?
•
Mark devoted three verses in his Gospel to the ministry of John the Baptist and fourteen tell of the circumstances of his death. Briefly summarize the reason that John the Baptist was killed.
Please examine this word study for a key word used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
4036 perilupos perilypos Mark 6:26
Deeply saddened, grieved all around, i.e. intensely sad, exceeding (very) sorry; sorrowful
Mark 14:34
3. When Herod the Great died, his “kingdom” was divided into four parts. Two parts went to one son and his other two sons each received a tetrarch (a fourth part). Herod Antipas, a son of Herod the Great was the Roman ruler of the regions of Galilee and Perea. 112
Lesson 11 Herod built his capital on the southwestern shore of the Sea of Galilee and named the town Tiberias in honor of the Emperor Caesar Tiberias. Herod had political ambitions to be elevated to the status of king, although he was officially called a tetrarch, and never officially named king. Herod the Great was Idumean (from Idumea). His ancestors had been forced to convert to Judaism, but the Jewish people never accepted the rulers of the Herod family. It is interesting that the Mosaic Law had such a powerful impact upon Herod Antipas and Herodias. The Mosaic Law prohibited marriage to one’s brother’s wife while the brother was still living. Read the other two Gospels to see what they recorded about today’s passage. a. Matthew 14:1-12 b. Luke 9:7-9
4. Look at Matthew 11:1-19 to see what this teaches about John the Baptist. How did Jesus describe John? (Note: the word at the end of Matthew 11:6 (stumbling NASB, offended KJV, fall away NIV is the same word used for offended, in Mark 6:3, ISV.)
5. I was thinking about John the Baptist being in a Roman jail. In the book of Acts we can read that other Christian leaders were in jail and then “miraculously” released. Acts 12 records that Herod Agrippa I, ordered James the son of Zebedee to be killed and he imprisoned Peter. Read Acts 12 and contemplate these events. Who was involved and what did God do?
Why did the Lord not intervene on John the Baptist’s behalf?
113
Lesson 11 6. Scripture provides us with evidence that John the Baptist lived a simple life. Some biblical scholars who have studied the life of John the Baptist have taken the stand that John was a member of the Essene community in Qumran, northwest of the Dead Sea. I did some research into this idea for a class in the New Testament and have included this commentary for your reference, as a part of the resources in the Appendix. The paper entitled “The Essene Community and John the Baptist,” has been included to give you insight into life in first century Israel. Jesus taught about economic freedom and economic bondage throughout His ministry. Please close by reading Matthew 6:25-33 from the Sermon on the Mount and allow these words to comfort your spirit. Close by singing or reading the hymn of surrender, “Just As I Am, Without One Plea.” This was the song that was being sung when I walked forward at a Youth For Christ rally right before my twelfth birthday. Every time I sing this song I think of that time, and thank the Lord for His love for me. “Just As I Am, Without One Plea” Just as I am, without one plea but that Thy blood was shed for me, and that Thou biddest me come to Thee, O Lamb of God, I come, I come! Just as I am, though tossed about with many a conflict many a doubt, fightings and fears within, without, O Lamb of God, I come, I come! Just as I am, poor, wretched, blind – sight, riches, healing of the mind, Yea, all I need in Thee to find, O Lamb of God, I come, I come! Just as I am, Thou wilt receive, will welcome, pardon, cleanse, relieve; because Thy promise I believe, O Lamb of God, I come, I come! By Charlotte Elliott and William B. Bradbury
Day 3 – Mark 6:30-44 1. Someone said that going through Mark’s Gospel is like watching the unfolding of a travel log. We move from place to place and observe Jesus’ actions and the response of the disciples and others. Open by thanking God for His holy word and asking for His strength and wisdom as you study today’s passage. The first paragraph in today’s lesson is the continuation of Mark 6:7-13. Read that passage as a review and then read Mark 6:30-32 to answer these observation questions. • What did Mark tell us about the apostles in this passage?
114
•
What was revealed about Jesus by His actions in Mark 6:30-32?
•
What was revealed about Jesus in Mark 6:34?
•
How did Jesus accomplish the feeding of the multitude in today’s passage?
•
How did Jesus acknowledge God in His feeding of the people?
Lesson 11 2.
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
652 apostolos apostoloi Mark 6:30
Apostles, a delegate, specifically an ambassador of the Gospel; officially a commissioner of Christ (with miraculous powers): messenger, he that is sent Blessed, to speak well of, i.e. (religiously) to bless (thank or invoke a benediction upon, prosper), praise
2 Peter 3:2
2127 eulogeo eulogesen Mark 6:41
Romans 12:14
3. Look at what Matthew and Luke shared about today’s passage in Mark and record what they have added to Mark’s account. a. Matthew 14:13-21 b. Luke 9:10-17
4. The miracle of Jesus feeding more than 5000 people is recorded in all four of the Gospels. Now read John 6:1-14 and record any additional information about this event.
In John 6:26-65 we see how Jesus was confronted, what Jesus taught, and the response of those who heard this teaching. (This was a significant point in Jesus’ ministry.) How did John recount this?
5. Mark 6:34 reminded me of Jesus’ teaching that the apostle John recorded in John 10:1-18 about His role as the Shepherd. As you read this passage allow these words to minister to your needs, whether they be physical or emotional, knowing that God will always help your spirit when it is or has been wounded. What did Jesus promise in John 10?
115
Lesson 11 6. In 2 Corinthians 11:3 the apostle Paul revealed his concern for the church in Corinth when he said that he was afraid, “lest as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, your minds should be led astray from the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ.” At the time of Christ, the Roman coin representing a day’s wage for a laborer was the denarius. The disciples were faced with a large crowd of people who had had nothing to eat and were hungry. The disciples saw the challenge that this situation brought and in their predicament they did not know what to do. The nation of Israel knew the truths of Psalm 23 that claim that the Lord is a personal Shepherd to His people, and because of this they would not want. Can you say that you believe this to be true? Can you thank the Lord that He is your Shepherd and because of this you do not want? God’s promise to never leave us and never forsake us is restated in Hebrews 13:5. Please close by reading Psalm 23 as your prayer before the Lord.
Day 4 – Mark 6:45-56 1. Today you will complete the last two paragraphs of Mark 6. Please ask the Lord to help you see His power and majesty in these verses, that you might see as God would have you see. Begin with these observation questions. • According to Mark 6:45,46: What did Jesus ask of His disciples? What did Jesus ask of the crowd? What did Jesus do after the people were fed? •
Jesus was back at the Sea of Galilee at the end of Mark 6. This body of fresh water was seven miles wide at its widest point and thirteen miles long. At its deepest point the Sea was around 200 feet deep. According to Mark 6:47-52: What are the three miracles of this passage? a. b. c. When did the wind stop blowing? Write out Jesus’ words to His disciples.
What do you learn about the disciples in Mark 6:51,52? 116
Lesson 11 •
According to Mark 6:53-56: What does Mark tell us about Jesus in this passage?
What does Mark tell us about the people at Gennesaret? 2.
There are no word studies in today’s lesson!
3. In Mark 4:35-41 we read of Jesus calming the storm that was raging while He had been sleeping in the boat. Jesus has more to teach His disciples in today’s passage. Read the accounts in Matthew and John to see what they add to Mark’s record. a. Matthew 14:22-33 b. John 6:14-21
Remember that Mark’s Gospel was Mark recording Peter’s teaching about his time with Christ. How would you account for the major difference in Matthew and Mark’s accounts of this event?
4. From reading about Jesus walking on the water, what does this say to you personally? How would you have responded if you had been in the boat? What does the Matthew record tell you about Peter? a. If I had been in the boat: b. This is what I learned about Peter from Matthew 14:22-33:
5. What so you think Mark meant by the phrase “they didn’t understand the significance of the loaves? (Think about what you discovered in John 6 as you answer this.)
6. Read how Matthew 14:34-36 presented Jesus’ time in Gennesaret, a region known for its fertile plain that spread for three miles between the cities of Tiberias and Capernuam.
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Lesson 11 7. How does God want you to apply the truths from Mark 6:45-52 to your life today? Please stop and think about what you have learned and what this means to you.
I love the song “The Solid Rock” and thought of this while studying Mark 6. Close by reading or singing these words to let these words help you worship Jesus, the Rock on which you can stand secure. “The Solid Rock” My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness; I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly lean on Jesus’ name. Refrain: On Christ the solid Rock I stand – All other ground is sinking sand, all other ground is sinking sand. When darkness veils His lovely face, I rest on His unchanging grace; in ev’ry high and stormy gale, my anchor holds within the veil. Refrain: His oath, His covenant, His blood support me in the whelming flood; when all around my soul gives way, He then is all my hope and stay. Refrain: When He shall come with trumpet sound, O may I then in Him be found, dressed in His righteousness alone, faultless to stand before the throne. Refrain: By Edward Mote and William B. Bradbury
Day 5 – Mark 6 Review 1. It is time to think back over the events and the teaching of Mark 6. Ask God to help you see what He longs for you to see. As you reflect on the chapter, ask God to renew your passion for Him and for His holy word. Ask God to bring you to a place of contentment and peace, that you might truly trust in Him. • Look at the sheet in the Appendix entitled “Evidence of Jesus Christ in The Gospel According to Mark.” As you read through Mark 6, select some of the words that Jesus spoke, and record them on the chart. • 2.
Now look at the different ways Jesus was addressed or what He was specifically called in Mark 6 and list those on the chart. Now look at what Jesus did in Mark 6 and list some of Jesus’ actions on the chart.
3. What is the evidence in Mark 6 that reveals the heart of Jesus? Review the chapter asking God to help you see Jesus’ heart. Record this information on the “Evidence...” chart. Jot down a key event from Mark 6 that will help you remember a message from this chapter. Please take some time to meditate on what you have recorded, and looking back over the chapter again, write down in the last column what this means to you personally. Close by praying that your heart would be open to the Lord’s purpose for your life.
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Lesson 12
Lesson 12 – Mark 7 Introduction This week Mark 7 will be studied and the spiritual discipline of worship. As you move through this chapter, keep in mind how this chapter builds upon the chapters we have already studied. Look at the themes that will unfold in Mark 7 that had threads in the earlier chapters. Remember good biblical interpretation always considers the context of a verse, paragraph, and chapter. In Mark 7:7 Jesus quoted Isaiah who used the word worship in a unique way. As we consider this discipline, ask God to reveal your heart toward Him, and how you worship Him. Maybe you could memorize some of the verses we study this week regarding the discipline of worship.
Day 1 – Mark 7, Comprehensive Chapter Study 1. Today you will begin the observation of Mark 7. Open in prayer asking for the Holy Spirit to illuminate your spirit as you spend this time in God’s holy word. • Read Mark 7 paying attention to the key words that were used. Mark the key words and then make a list of what is being stated about the key word. You can place these lists directly on the Scripture Worksheets in the right-hand margin under the heading of the key word, or place your lists on a separate sheet of paper. Now please list the key words in Mark 7 here.
2. As you read Mark 7, you can also look for contrasts and comparisons that were used by Mark. Write these here in the space provided, and/or mark your Scripture Worksheets in some way to show these contrasts and comparisons. Contrasts (to show differences/opposites)
Comparisons (to show similarities and connections, using the words as or like)
3. Remember one way to see the message of Scripture is to look at how the author communicated truth. In Mark 7 you will find several instructions. Read Mark 7:14b,16,29c,34b,36a and mark these in some way. Jesus spoke words of admonition to several people in Mark 7. Read Mark 7:6-9,13, 18 and mark these admonitions. 119
Lesson 12 I think that the rest of Mark 7 was written as declarative statements, since so much of the chapter includes phrases that declare the events and truths of Jesus’ ministry. 4. Now please look for terms of expression that help you understand time, with words like “now, then, later,” etc. and mark these in a consistent way. Another means of understanding language is to examine the way verbs are used in writing. A simple explanation of verbs is that they are words that express action or the state of being, and they relate the words communicated within a framework of time. Verbs communicate that something is happening at the moment, or has happened in the past, or will happen in the future. (The verbs in the preceding sentence are in italics.) Verbs can also announce that an event has already taken place and the results of that event are continuing at the present time. Please take the time to read Mark 7 looking for the different verb tenses that were used, noting in the left hand margin references to the future, the present, or the past. This can add another dimension to your study, not because you will be studying verbs, but this will help you see what God has done in the past, what He is doing in your life today, as well as show you what the future holds. 5. As you read through Mark 7, mark words that express conclusion or show results or purpose with words like “for,” “for this reason,” “so that,” and “because.” Words that express conclusion are important to note because they show why the author wrote what he wrote and help you see the promises or consequences that will come. 6. Do you see how Mark 7 connects with what was written in the earlier chapters? Ask the Lord to help you see these connections as you continue. This will help you see and understand God’s message to you. This week you will look into the spiritual discipline of worship, and specific instructions in the Bible that teach of this discipline. Please write out what Jesus said about worship in Mark 7:6,7.
Someone has said that to worship is to assign worth to someone. Close by reading Psalm 66 as your prayer of worship before the Lord.
Days 2 and 3 – Mark 7:1-23 1. Psalm 96 is called a “call to worship the LORD, the righteous Judge.” Please read this Psalm as your opening prayer allowing your heart to worship God, surrendering to His will for your life. Read Mark 7:1-23 and begin with these observation questions. • What bothered the Pharisees and scribes in this passage?
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Lesson 12
2.
•
How did Jesus affirm the prophet Isaiah’s message in Mark 7:6,7?
•
What were Jesus’ admonitions in Mark 7:9,13?
•
How did Jesus admonish His disciples in Mark 7:18?
•
According to Mark 7:15 what did Jesus say would make a person unclean?
•
According to Mark 7:21-23 what did Jesus say would make a person unclean?
•
How would you briefly summarize the two main contrasts made in Mark 7:1-23?
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s lesson.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
5273 hupokrites hupokriton Mark 7:6
Hypocrites, an actor under an assumed character (stage-player), i.e. figuratively a dissembler (one who practices duplicity) Worship, to revere, i.e. adore, devout, religious. From the word seb, “to fall back, before; to express an attitude of respect, being impressed by something great and lofty.”40
Matthew 6:2
4576 sebomai sebontai Mark 7:7
40
Acts 18:13
Zodhiates, Ibid., p. 954. 121
Lesson 12 Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
2999 latreia latreian Romans 12:1
Service of worship, ministration of God, i.e. worship or divine service. Meaning that “sacrifice is the service denoted.”41 Worship, (meaning to kiss, like a dog licking his master’s hand); to fawn or crouch to, i.e. prostrate oneself in homage (do reverence to, adore) Worship, to depress, i.e. prostrate, especially in homage to royalty or God, bow (self) down, crouch, fall down (flat) humbly beseech, do (make) obeisance, do reverence, make to stoop
Hebrews 9:1,6
4352 proskuneo proskuneseis Matthew 4:10 7812 Hebrew shachah Psalm 66:4
Revelation 14:7
Psalm 95:6
3. Jesus’ teaching in Mark 7:1-23 also appears in Matthew 15:1-20. Start by reading this and look for any additional information that Matthew wrote and record that here.
4. The prophet Isaiah spoke God’s words of warning to the nation of Israel. In Isaiah 29, Isaiah’s opening words were directed to those in Jerusalem, as Ariel, Lion of God, (Jerusalem), the city where David once camped! Look again at Mark 7:1 to see what was said about Jesus’ accusers and then read the words that Jesus quoted from Isaiah 29:13. When I read this passage I saw God’s heart toward His people, and had a sense of Jesus’ heart toward His accusers. Read to the end of Isaiah 29 and write your response to this message.
5. As the Jewish teachers in the synagogue system, the Pharisees developed an elaborate system of “laws” to answer the questions the people had concerning “How do we live out God’s Law under foreign domination?” Over the years the Pharisees “laws” increased to number 613 at the time of Christ. Each of the Ten Commandments had a number of laws to further define God’s imperative. When Jesus spoke of their own tradition in Mark 7:9, He was referring to these laws, known as the Mishnah. Write out the words given by Moses, the words of the human tradition (the Mishnah), and the consequences Jesus spoke concerning the Pharisees’ law. a. What had Moses said in Exodus 20:12 and Exodus 21:17?
41
Ibid., p. 931. 122
Lesson 12 b. According to Mark 7:11,12, what did the Pharisees teach?
c. According to Mark 7:13, what had come from the Pharisees’ tradition?
6. Mark 6:7-13 tells us that Jesus entrusted the gospel message to His disciples and He sent them out, two by two to be His ambassadors in the world. What does Mark 7:17-23 tell us about Jesus?
7. In Mark 7:19 we have an important summary statement saying that Jesus declared that all foods are clean. When we studied Mark 5, we looked at a passage from Leviticus that clearly told Israel what was clean and what was unclean. Israel at the time of Christ lived under the laws from the Torah, the first five books of the Old Testament. In Acts 10, Luke recorded a very important series of events in the early church that will help us further understand the heart of God toward those who were devout and those who followed Christ. Please close by taking the time to read Acts 10. What do you learn about Cornelius’ relationship with God?
What did the Lord teach Peter and how did He teach him? Write out Peter’s confession in Acts 10:34,35.
In Romans 12:1 Paul wrote “Therefore, brothers, because of God’s mercies I urge you to offer your bodies as living sacrifices that are holy and pleasing to God, for this is a reasonable way for you to worship.” Please close by asking God how you can live a life that reflects His righteousness and live in obedience to His word. Write out your response to your time of listening to God.
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Day 4 – Mark 7:24-37 1. Sometimes Scripture records events that can cause us to be puzzled and ask questions. Today’s passage might leave you puzzled, and asking questions! Questions are always good, because they get us to think! Psalm 115:3 says that “our God is in the heavens; He does whatever He pleases.” God sent Jesus to earth to reveal Himself and His plan. Jesus came to fulfill God’s plan for the nations to be reconciled with Him. Please worship God through the reading of Psalm 115 with a grateful heart. Ask God to help you see the truths that are delivered in Mark 7:24-37. Read these paragraphs and then begin with these observation questions. • Where did the first event take place and who was involved?
•
According to Mark 7:26,27, what was asked of Jesus and how did He respond?
•
How did Jesus heal the woman’s daughter?
•
What does this event reveal about the woman who came to Jesus?
•
The story of Jesus’ healing of the deaf man with a speech impediment is only given in Mark’s Gospel. Mark recorded the actual Hebrew (Aramaic) word that Jesus spoke to the man, and then Mark wrote in Greek what that meant, so that his audience who knew Greek would understand. How did Jesus heal this man?
•
How did the people respond to Jesus’ actions on behalf of the deaf man?
•
What do these two events reveal about Jesus?
2. There are no word studies in today’s lesson, however if you have an exhaustive concordance you can always look up words if you have questions.
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Lesson 12 3. You will appreciate Matthew’s account of Mark 7:24-30. Remember that Mark was writing to the church in Rome and Matthew’s Gospel was written to a Jewish audience. Read Matthew 15:21-28 looking for any additional information about today’s passage.
4. Paul wrote to the church in Rome about Israel, God’s chosen people and then wrote about God’s grace that was extended to believing Gentiles who have been grafted into God’s kingdom and adopted as His children. Read Romans 9:23-26 and write out the promise given.
What a comfort to read about how Christ extended this promise to the Greek woman who had been born in Phoenicia, Syria. 5. Today you studied the Canaanite woman who came to Jesus. The apostle John recorded in John 4:1-45 the record of a Samarian woman who talked with Jesus. Read John 4 to see what Jesus said about worship to this woman.
6. Mark 7:14 recorded Jesus saying, “Listen to Me, all of you, and understand.” Later in Mark 7 we have the story of the man who was unable to listen. Remember as a child when you did not want to hear something and you covered your ears with your hands? Is that ever the attitude of your spirit toward God and His word? Are you willing to listen? Do you look forward to spending time in God’s holy word so that you can listen to Him speaking to you? What are the other options that you could choose instead of listening to God? Ask God what He would have you do concerning this.
The Christian song “My Savior’s Love” helps me see myself as I was before I came to Christ. I worship my Savior Christ Jesus for what He was willing to do on my behalf. I can express the gratitude of my heart through this song. If you know this song, close by singing it, or by reading the words as a means of helping you to worship the Lord today. “My Savior’s Love” I stand amazed in the presence of Jesus the Nazarene, and wonder how He could love me, a sinner condemned, unclean. Chorus: How marvelous! How wonderful! And my song shall ever be: How marvelous! How wonderful is my Savior’s love for me! He took my sins and my sorrows, He made them His very own; He bore the burden to Calv’ry and suffered and died alone. Chorus: By Charles H. Gabriel
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Lesson 12
Day 5 – Mark 7 Review 1. Thank the Lord that we are about to review Mark 7. Seek His wisdom as you spend time in the word today, asking for clarity as you remind yourself of the truths in this chapter. • Look at the sheet in the Appendix entitled “Evidence of Jesus Christ in The Gospel According to Mark.” As you read through Mark 7, select some of the words that Jesus spoke, and record them on the chart. • 2.
Now look at the different ways Jesus was addressed or what He was specifically called in Mark 7 and list those on the chart. Look back at what Jesus did in Mark 7 and list some of Jesus’ actions on the chart.
3. Think about how Mark 7 reveals the heart of Jesus. Review the chapter asking God to help you see this. Record this information on the “Evidence…” chart and commit to sharing this with someone this week. Jot down on the “Evidence…” chart a key event from Mark 7 that will help you remember the message of this chapter. Please take some time to meditate on what you have recorded, and looking back over the chapter again, write down in the last column what this means to you personally. Is the spiritual discipline of worship a regular part of your life? Using the help of the “5 W’s and an H” questions think about this discipline and what it means to you. Who are you to worship? What is involved in worship? Why are you to worship? How can you worship?
When are you to worship? Will you make corporate worship (attending church) a regular part of your life? How will you make time in your week for private worship? When could that take place? How can you protect that time alone with the Lord?
Bring the role of the spiritual discipline of worship before the Lord and ask Him to help you be faithful to this that you might continue to grow in the knowledge and grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.
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Lesson 13
Lesson 13 – Mark 8 Introduction This week you will study Mark 8 and the spiritual discipline of confession. Confession in a very simple sense means to agree with God, to see as God sees. For a nonbeliever, confessing Christ as one’s Savior is the first step. Romans 10:9 says that “if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you shall be saved.” Do you remember that moment in time when you did this? Reflect on that moment and thank the Lord for the significance of your initial confession, when you asked Jesus to be your Savior.
Day 1 – Mark 8, Comprehensive Chapter Study 1. Today you will observe Mark 8. Open in prayer asking for the Holy Spirit to illuminate your spirit so that you will see what God has for you in His holy word, trusting God with the questions that come to you as you study Mark 8. • Read Mark 8 paying attention to the key words that were used. Mark the key words and then make a list of what is being stated about the key word. You can place these lists directly on the Scripture Worksheets in the right-hand margin under the heading of the key word, or place your lists on a separate sheet of paper. Now please list the key words in Mark 8 here.
2. As you read Mark 8, you can also look for contrasts and comparisons that were used by Mark and Jesus. Write these here in the space provided, and/or mark your Scripture Worksheets in some way to show these contrasts and comparisons. Think about how these help you learn what is being taught in Mark 8. Contrasts (to show differences/opposites)
Comparisons (to show similarities and connections, using the words as or like)
3. Remember one way to see the message of Scripture is to look at the ways in which the author communicated truth. I think that the most of Mark 8 was written as declarative statements, since so much of the chapter includes phrases that declare the events and truths of Jesus’ ministry. In Mark 8 you find some instructions. Read Mark 8:6,26b,30,34b and mark these as instructions. While there is not a stated consequence for the warning of Mark 8:15, both Mark 8:15 and 38 are warnings. Jesus spoke admonitions in Mark 8:17b and 33b. Think about these admonitions and what these mean to you personally. 127
Lesson 13 4. Now please look for terms of expression that help you understand time, with words like “now, then, later,” etc. and mark these in a consistent way. Another means of understanding language is to examine the way verbs are used in writing. A simple explanation of verbs is that they are words that express action or the state of being, and they relate the words communicated within a framework of time. Verbs communicate that something is happening at the moment, or has happened in the past, or will happen in the future. (The verbs in the preceding sentence are in italics.) Verbs can also announce that an event has already taken place and the results of that event are continuing at the present time. Please take the time to read Mark 8 looking for the different verb tenses that were used, noting in the left hand margin references to the future, the present, or the past. This can add another dimension to your study, not because you will be studying verbs, but this will help you see what God has done in the past, what He is doing in your life today, as well as show you what the future holds. 5. As you read through Mark 8, mark words that express conclusion or show results or purpose with words like “for,” “for this reason,” “so that,” and “because.” Words that express conclusion are important to note because they show why the author wrote what he wrote and help you see the promises or consequences that will come. 6.
I thank the Lord for what we are learning as we study Mark’s Gospel. Remember that this week you will look into the spiritual discipline of confession, and what the Bible teaches about this discipline. Another way the word is used is to describe the time when someone realizes that they are a sinner and they have need for a Savior, because to confess Jesus as your Savior is to agree with God that you are in need of salvation. Write out Peter’s confession, but instead of copying the “confession” as it is recorded in Mark 8:29, personalize the message, stating what this means to you.
Make a point of learning this simple confession, and ask God for the opportunity to share this profound truth with someone this week. Close in prayer expressing to God what it means to you to be His child and to be saved.
Days 2 and 3 – Mark 8:1-26 1. An important dimension to Bible study is to be aware of the geographical information involved in a passage, considering what impact that would have on the lesson being studied. Surrender the time you will spend in Mark 8 to the Lord, asking for the light of the world to be glorified as you study this chapter. Begin with these observation questions. • Most believe that Mark 8 opened with Jesus being in the same location as He was at the end of Mark 7. Please go back to Mark 7:31 and then write down this reminder of where Jesus was at the end of Mark 7. 128
Lesson 13 •
Answer these questions based on Mark 8:1-9: What was the circumstance described in this passage? (Notice the timing of the passage.)
What four things would you share about Jesus from this passage?
What does this account tell you about the disciples?
What does Mark 8:1-9 tell you about the large crowd?
•
Answer the next questions based on Mark 8:10-13: Where did this account take place? What was the attitude of the Pharisees and what did they ask of Jesus?
How did Jesus respond to the Pharisees?
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Answer these questions based on Mark 8:14-21: What was Jesus’ warning to the disciples?
How did Jesus admonish His disciples in this passage?
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The record of Jesus’ healing miracle in Bethsaida was only told in Mark 8, and none of the other Gospels. Answer these questions based on Mark 8:22-26: Who was involved in this miracle?
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Lesson 13 You have read about many of Jesus’ miracles in Mark 1-7. What is unique about the miracle of Mark 8:22-26?
What did Jesus say to the man after He healed him?
2.
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
2168 eucharistia eucharistesas Mark 8:6 2127 eulogeo eulogesas Mark 8:7 3985 peirazo peirazontes Mark 8:11
Thanks, to be grateful, i.e. to express gratitude (towards); specifically to say grace at a meal: (give) thank (-ful, -s) Blessed, to speak well of, i.e. (religiously) to bless (thank or invoke a benediction upon, prosper), praise Tested, to test (objectively), i.e. endeavor, scrutinize, entice, discipline, assay, examine, go about, prove, tempt, (-er), try Sign, an indication, especially certain or supernatural: miracle, sign, token, wonder Sighed deeply, to sigh deeply. From stenazo [4727] (by implication) to sigh, murmur, pray inaudibly: with grief, groan… Yeast ISV, ferment (as if boiling up), leaven NASB; when leaven was used in Scripture, it generally represented evil. Confession, to assent, i.e. covenant, acknowledge: … (pro) fess, … give thanks, promise. To be in agreement; “to consent to the desire of another.”42
Mark 14:23
4592 semeion semeion Mark 8:11,12 389 anastenazo anastenazas Mark 8:12 2217 zume zumes Mark 8:15 3670 homologeo homologoun John 12:42
Mark 6:41 James 1:13
Matthew 16:1 Hapax legomen. (The only place this is used in the New Testament.) The word “sighed” used in Mark 7:34 is stenazo. 1 Corinthians 5:7 1 John 1:9
3. The record of Jesus feeding the 4000 was recorded in Matthew 15:32-39 but not in Luke or John’s Gospels. Please read Matthew’s account and look for any additional information that Matthew included.
42
Ibid., p. 941. 130
Lesson 13 The town of Dalmanutha, mentioned in Mark 8:10 was also called Magadan, which is the name that Matthew 15:39 used. Dalmanutha (Magadan) was located on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee. 4. Mark 8:11-13 presents another encounter with the Pharisees. Read Matthew’s record of this and write out what was recorded in Matthew 16:1-4 that adds a unique perspective to Mark’s Gospel.
5. Jesus’ warning for His disciples and His teaching about the feeding of the multitude is also found in Matthew 16:5-12. Read Mark 8:11-21 again and then this passage, and add whatever information Matthew included that was not in Mark 8. (Remember that the Sadducees were the group of Jewish leaders who were responsible for the temple in Jerusalem.)
Write out Jesus’ statement about the Pharisees in Luke 12:1.
6. Israel’s initial recognition of a different meaning being used for the yeast that leavens bread stemmed from God’s instructions to His people when they were preparing to leave the captivity of Egypt. The Passover involved preparing bread without leaven, and God commanded His people to annually celebrate the Feast of Unleavened Bread that they might not forget His faithfulness, as recorded in Exodus 12. The leaven came to represent Israel’s deliverance from Egypt. Read Deuteronomy 16:3 (in the context of the chapter) to see the reminder to Israel when they were about to enter the Promised Land. To the Rabbis of Israel leaven was a “common metaphor for the evil tendency in man, which, though it may seem only a small thing, nevertheless corrupts the whole man.”43 The only two places in the New Testament where leaven is not used in a negative way are in Matthew 13:33 and Luke 13:21. Stop and meditate on Christ’s teaching about bread and leaven (from John 6 and the other Gospel’s records of Jesus feeding the multitudes) and ask God for His eternal perspective on this passage for your own life. How could you share this truth with someone? Allow the Creator of the universe to lead you in this.
Continued on the next page.
43
Cranfield, Ibid., p. 260. 131
Lesson 13
As we close consider the importance of the spiritual discipline of confession. Israel’s King David learned a painful lesson about confession after he sinned with Bathsheba, after he murdered her husband Uriah. In Psalm 139 David acknowledged God’s omniscience. At the end of the Psalm David asked God to “Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me and know my anxious thoughts; and see it there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the everlasting way.” Having this attitude is what is necessary before you can confess your sin to God. When you have sin in your life, you must come to God and confess your sin. Everyone who follows Christ needs to know the truth of 1 John 1:9. Please write this verse here and dwell on your own life and what this verse means to you today.
Praise the Lord that you are able to spend time in the word and can grow in your faith. Hallelujah! Soli Deo Gloria (to God alone be the glory)!
Day 4 – Mark 8:27-38 1. Today please begin your time by reading Psalm 32 as your own prayer. As you read, look at the different spiritual disciplines that are mentioned in this Psalm. Allow these words to minister to your soul as you read David’s acknowledgement of God and His faithfulness. Begin with these observation questions. • A city in northern Israel, near Mt. Hermon, north of the Sea of Galilee, was named Caesarea Philippi in honor of the Roman Caesar Tiberias and Philip, son of Herod the Great. The city was associated with worship of the heathen god Pan as well as others. Where exactly does Mark say that Jesus was in this passage?
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How did the disciples respond to Jesus’ question of Mark 8:27?
•
How did Peter respond to Jesus’ question?
Lesson 13
2.
•
Three places in Mark, Jesus’ words about the future were recorded. What did Jesus tell His disciples about His future in Mark 8:31?
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Write out Jesus’ words of rebuke to Peter found in Mark 8:33.
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Many have taught that the end of Mark 8 is Jesus’ description of the “cost of discipleship.” Notice who Jesus spoke to in Mark 8:34. What did Jesus say in Mark 8:34,35 about what is asked of those who are saved and follow after Him?
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What was Jesus’ warning in Mark 8:38?
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
5547 Christos Christos Mark 8:29 4899 mashiyach Hebrew Daniel 9:25
Christ, anointed, i.e. the Messiah, an epithet of Jesus, from chrio meaning to anoint Messiah, anointed, usually a consecrated person (as a king, priest, or saint); specifically the Messiah
John 20:31
4245 presbuteros presbuteron Mark 8:31
Elders, older, a senior, specifically an Israeli Sanhedrist (also figuratively, member of the celestial council) or Christian “presbyter”: elder (-est) Deny, to deny utterly, i.e. disown, abstain. To remove from oneself, to refuse.44 The opposite of the Greek word (kauchaomai) that is translated as “being proud of.”45
Mark 14:43,53 (The fulfillment of Jesus’ prophecy.)
533 aparneomai aparensasthe Mark 8:34
44 45
Psalm 2:2
Mark 4:30,31,72
Zodhiates, Ibid., p. 888. William F. Arndt and F. Wilbur Gingrich, A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament, Chicago, The University of Chicago Press, 1979, p. 81. 133
Lesson 13 Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
4982 sozo sosai Mark 8:35 5590 psuche psuchen Mark 8:36
Save, to save, i.e. to deliver or protect, heal preserve, save (self), do well, be (make) whole Life ISV, i.e. (by implication) spirit, soul NASB. Sometimes psuche stands for the immaterial part of man made up of the soul, soma (the life element), and the spirit.46 Ashamed, to feel shame for something, to be ashamed
Mark 13:20
1870 epaischunomai
epaischunthe Mark 8:38a 3428 moichalis moichalidi Mark 8:38 268 hamartolos hamartolo Mark 8:38 1391 doxa doxe Mark 8:38
Mark 8:35,36,37
Romans 1:16
Adulterous, (literally or figuratively), James 4:4 an adulteress (-ous, -y). God used this term when He accused Israel of following and worshiping other gods. Sinful, a sinner. Representing a chosen Mark 14:41 lifestyle; the opposite of one that is just or righteous by God’s standard. Glory, glory (as very apparent), in a 2 Peter 1:3 wide application (literally or figuratively, objectively or subjectively): dignity, glory (-ious), honour, praise, worship
3. In studying the Old Testament understanding of the word Messiah you can see that this referred to everyone anointed with holy oil. Israel knew that God had anointed their patriarchs, priests, and kings as His representatives. The name was also used for those who were considered to be redeemers.47 Israel in the first century was looking for the Messiah to come. Because of the hardships Israel suffered under the control of the Greeks and then the Roman Empire, the nation of Israel thought that the Messiah would come to reign as their anointed King and Redeemer, to deliver them from foreign rule. Imagine the surprise of Jesus’ disciples when He spoke of the future in Mark 8:31 after Peter confessed Him as the Christ (the Messiah). Please spend time in Matthew and Luke’s accounts of today’s passage from Mark. Read Mark 8:27-38 and then the passages of Matthew and Luke looking for what they add to Mark’s Gospel. Concerning Christ: Matthew 16:13-28
46
Zodhiates, Ibid., p. 968. Ibid. 134 47
Concerning Peter:
Concerning Christ’s disciples:
Lesson 13 Concerning Christ: Luke 9:18-27
Concerning Peter:
Concerning Christ’s disciples:
4. Now please turn to 2 Timothy to see Paul’s teaching and personal testimony concerning the cost of being a follower of Christ. As you record his teaching, please prayerfully consider what this means to you personally as a Christian. a. 2 Timothy 1:7-12 b. 2 Timothy 2:8-13
5. Before the “calling” of any of the disciples, John 1:41-51 records the response of several of those who were to become Jesus’ apostles. Read these verses and record what Jesus was called so that you might see the confession of these men.
Now read John 12: 23-26 to see what Jesus asked of His followers and what is promised to us who follow Christ.
Jesus’ talk of a cross would have been another difficult expression for His followers. Josephus, the Jewish historian wrote that Varus, the Roman leader of Syria crucified 2000 Jews during his reign. Everyone at the time of Christ knew that crucifixion was a painful and humiliating way to die. It would seem that Jesus was asking His followers to be willing to die as He was going to die, and some of His followers did die in this way. The apostle Peter was to be crucified, and the early church writings say that he asked to be hung upside down, because he felt he was unworthy to die as His Savior and Lord had died. Please close by prayerfully reading Paul’s words in Romans 8:14-18. Ask God to help you to join with Paul so that these words would minister to your heart as a follower of Jesus Christ. What especially spoke to your spirit in this passage?
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Lesson 13
Day 5 – Mark 8 Review 1. As you review Mark 8 you are finishing the first half of Mark’s Gospel! Praise the Lord for His faithfulness as you reach this point, and ask for His strength and help as you continue with your commitment to grow through the study of His word. This week’s look into the spiritual discipline of confession addressed your own personal confession of your sin, and your need for a Savior. Another part of this discipline is to understand the command of James 5:16 that says Christians are to confess their sins to one another. As a part of the body of Christ, we are to be connected with someone that we can be honest with and accountable to, confessing sin and asking for prayer and perhaps counsel concerning the area where you are vulnerable. Do you have someone in your life that has this role? Are you willing to be obedient to this command as a true disciple of Jesus Christ? I have seen that freedom comes to believers when they confess their sin to another believer. I once said that I did not know why that was true, and a dear friend responded by saying that this is true because freedom comes from obedience to God and His holy word. I praise the Lord that that is true and God is faithful to provide all that we need to be godly. Walking in truth and in God’s light will minister to your tortured and troubled spirit. Trust Him with that. Ask God to guide you through the review of Mark 8, and acknowledge His truth as your guide for life. • Look at the sheet in the Appendix entitled “Evidence of Jesus Christ in The Gospel According to Mark.” As you read through Mark 8, select some of the words that Jesus spoke, and record them on the chart. • 2.
Now look at the different ways Jesus was addressed or what He was specifically called in Mark 8 and list those on the chart. Now look at what Jesus did in Mark 8 and list some of Jesus’ actions on the chart.
3. What is the evidence in Mark 8 that reveals the heart of Jesus? Review the chapter asking God to help you see Jesus’ heart. Record this information on the “Evidence…” chart. Jot down a key event from Mark 8 that will help you remember the message of this chapter. Please take some time to meditate on what you have recorded, and looking back over the chapter again, write down in the last column what this means to you personally. There are two places in the Old Testament that speak of confession. Please close by reading Proverbs 28:13 and Nehemiah 1:4-11 to see what Israel was taught concerning this, and reflect on what this means to you.
In closing, knowing what the process of review means to those who are trying to learn something, would you celebrate the fact that you are half way through the chapters of Mark’s Gospel by taking the time (before starting Mark 9) to read your “Evidence…” sheet? Review what you recorded about Jesus’ words, His actions, His heart, and what He was called. Rejoice in the gift of His holy and eternal word. 136
Lesson 14
Lesson 14 – Mark 9 Introduction This week you start the second half of Mark’s chapters! Praise the Lord for your faithfulness, and that you are trusting God with what you need to grow in your faith. As we moved through the first lessons we studied the spiritual disciplines that were modeled by Christ and His followers over the centuries. In Matthew 28:19,20 Jesus commissioned His followers with what has been called the Great Commission. “As you go, make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey all that I’ve commanded you. And remember, I am with you every day until the end of the age,” ISV.
Day 1 – Mark 9, Comprehensive Chapter Study 1. Today you will begin the observation of Mark 9. Open in prayer asking for the Holy Spirit to reveal God’s truth to your spirit so that you will see what God has for you in His holy word. • Read Mark 9 paying attention to the key words that were used. Mark the key words and then make a list of what is being stated about the key word. You can place these lists directly on the Scripture Worksheets in the right-hand margin under the heading of the key word, or place your lists on a separate sheet of paper. Now please list the key words in Mark 9 here. Remember to place a question mark by those words that you do not understand.
2. As you read Mark 9, you can also look for contrasts and comparisons that were used by Mark and Jesus. Write these here in the space provided, and/or mark your Scripture Worksheets in some way to show these contrasts and comparisons. Think about how these help you learn what is being taught. Contrasts (to show differences/opposites)
Comparisons (to show similarities and connections, using the words as or like)
3. Remember one way to see the message of Scripture is to look at how the author communicated truth. In Mark 9 you also find several instructions. Read Mark 9:7d,9b,19d,22c,24c,25b, 39b,43b,45b,47b,50c,d and mark these as instructions. As I read through Mark 9, I read Mark 9:41,43a,c,45c,47c as exhortations, Jesus’ personal message to His audience. Mark these exhortations in some way. 137
Lesson 14 I think that Jesus spoke an admonishment in Mark 9:19b as these were harsh words that confronted unbelieving attitudes. In Mark 9:42,49,50b Jesus gave His audience warnings. Read these verses and mark these warnings in some way. I think that the rest of Mark 9 was written as declarative statements, including phrases that declare the events and truths of Jesus’ ministry. 4. Now please look for terms of expression that help you understand time, with words like “now, then, later,” etc. and mark these in a consistent way. Another means of understanding language is to examine the way verbs are used in writing. A simple explanation of verbs is that they are words that express action or the state of being, and they relate the words communicated within a framework of time. Verbs communicate that something is happening at the moment, or has happened in the past, or will happen in the future. (The verbs in the preceding sentence are in italics.) Verbs can also announce that an event has already taken place and the results of that event are continuing at the present time. Please take the time to read Mark 9 looking for the different verb tenses that were used, noting in the left hand margin references to the future, the present, or the past. This can add another dimension to your study, not because you will be studying verbs, but this will help you see what God has done in the past, what He is doing in your life today, as well as show you what the future holds. Jesus spoke an important prophecy to His followers in Mark 9:31b,c. 5. As you read through Mark 9, mark words that express conclusion or show results or purpose with words like “for,” “for this reason,” “so that,” and “because.” Words that express conclusion are important to note because they show why the author wrote what he wrote and help you see the promises or consequences that will come. 6. As you have completed the observation of Mark 9, you probably have questions! I am trusting the Lord with His word, and know that by carefully observing the context of the chapter, God’s revelation will be clear. Do you have a listening heart so that when you come to the word you expect God to do something? Ask God what gets in the way of you having this attitude. Are you willing to continue to be available to Him, by spending time with Him, praying, and being quiet before the Lord? Ask God what gets in the way of you having this attitude. Will you continue to be broken before Him, longing to be obedient to Him and His word? Ask God what gets in the way of you having this attitude. Praise the Lord that you have made a commitment to the spiritual discipline of Bible study, as you continue to spend time with your Savior Jesus Christ by studying His words and His actions. Close in prayer thanking God that through His word you can see the heart of Jesus so that you might know Him better and trust Him in all things. 138
Lesson 14
Day 2 – Mark 9:1-13 1. Today’s lesson will look at a significant passage of Scripture. Bow before the Lord, seeking His wisdom and asking the Holy Spirit to guide you through this passage. Begin with these observation questions. • When you read a word like “then” as an introduction to a verse, you must go back to what came before the word, to see the complete context of the phrase. The Scriptures were not written with chapter or verse numbers. When the Christian church decided on how Mark’s sentences should be divided they divided Mark 8:38 from Mark 9:1. Some would puzzle as to why the chapters were determined as they were. Please read Mark 8:38 and Mark 9:1 to answer these questions. What was Jesus’ prophecy in Mark 9:1? What was Jesus’ prophecy in Mark 8:38? Who was involved in this prophecy? Who was involved in this prophecy?
•
The rest of these questions are based on Mark 9:2-13. Considering who was involved and what happened, draw a simple sketch of Mark 9:2-4.
•
How did Peter respond to this situation and why according to Mark 9:5,6?
•
Most see Moses as Israel’s representative of the law and Elijah as the representative of the prophets. Why were God’s words so significant for the nation of Israel?
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Lesson 14
2.
•
How are God’s words significant to you as a disciple of Christ?
•
What confused Peter, James, and John according to Mark 9:9-11?
•
Another Hebrew teaching about Elijah was recorded in Malachi 4:5,6. Most believe that this is referring to the time when Elijah will be a witness before the second coming of Christ. Read this and record the prophecy concerning Elijah’s role.
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration: 3339 metamorphoo
metamorphothe Mark 9:2 4461 rabbi rabbi Mark 9:5 4633 skenay skenas Mark 9:5 600 apokathistemi apokathistanei Mark 9:12 3958 pascho pathe Mark 9:12
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
Changed ISV, to transform (literally or figuratively), change, transfigured KJV; to be changed into another form48
Used four times in the New Testament. Romans 12:2
Rabbi ISV, my master, as an official title of honor; Master KJV; a Hebrew title Shelters ISV, a tent or cloth hut, habitation, tabernacles KJV; tents like Israel used for the Feast of Booths Restore, to reconstitute (in health; home, or organization): restore (again)
John 1:38
Suffer, to experience a sensation or impression (usually painful): feel, passion, vex
Acts 15:16 Acts 1:6 Acts 1:3
3. Today’s passage in Mark 9:2-13 is also recorded in Matthew and Luke’s Gospels. Read these Scriptures to see what was added that will help you understand this important event. a. Matthew 17:1-13 b. Luke 9:28-36
Complete your answer on the next page. 48
Walvoord and Zuck, Ibid., p. 142. 140
Lesson 14
Some biblical prophecy includes two distinct elements of time. There is often a fulfillment that is close to the time in which the prophecy was spoken, as well as a fulfillment that will come at a later time. At the end of Matthew’s account of the transfiguration Matthew wrote, “Then the disciples understood that He had spoken to them about John the Baptist,” Matthew 17:13. Luke’s Gospel recorded prophecy about John the Baptist. Read Luke 1:17 in its context to see what was said about John and his relationship to Elijah.
4. In Mark 8:29 Peter’s confession of Christ was recorded. In Mark 9:7 God’s words are recorded. Write out what God spoke in these two places. Do not overlook to whom God was addressing in His words. a. Mark 1:11 b. Mark 9:7
Read what was written in Hebrews 1:1,2 to see how this teaching agrees with God’s words at the transfiguration.
5. It is difficult to determine with certainty what Jesus meant by His prophecy of Mark 9:1. When would people “see the kingdom of God arrive with power”? Here are some of the interpretations of this. a. When Jesus was “transfigured” before three of His disciples in Mark 9:2-8 b. As Jesus triumphed over sin from the cross (see Colossians 2:14,15) c. When Jesus was resurrected from the dead (see Romans 1:4) d. When the Holy Spirit came to indwell Christ’s followers (see Acts 2) e. When the Kingdom of God was extended to the Gentiles (see Acts 10) What do you think was meant by Christ in Mark 9:1?
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Lesson 14 6. Peter commented on Jesus’ transfiguration in 2 Peter 1:16-18. Read these verses and write a summary of what Peter said was important concerning this event.
In closing today, look at the two places in Scripture where Paul used the word that Mark used to describe how Jesus changed. a. Romans 12:1,2 b. 2 Corinthians 3:18
As we have studied the spiritual disciplines we have looked at the way of life that helps to transform those who follow Christ. The apostle Paul announced that those that are in Christ are a new creation in 2 Corinthians 5:17. Paul wrote in Romans 8:29 that believers have been predestined to be conformed to the image of Jesus. According to Paul’s writing in Romans 12:1,2 and 2 Corinthians 3:18, what transforms you? What is your responsibility in this?
Close in prayer asking the Holy Spirit to counsel you according to what you need to do today concerning your transformation.
Day 3 – Mark 9:14-32 1. Imagine if you were one of Jesus’ disciples who was present during the episode of today’s passage. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you understand what took place in Mark 9:1429 and then begin with these observation questions. • Read Mark 9:14-29 to answer these questions. How would you summarize the boy’s condition?
From Mark’s account, how would you explain the faith of the father in this passage? Why did Jesus say that the boy had not been healed earlier? •
According to Mark 9:31, what did Jesus say about His future? a. b. c.
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Lesson 14 d. 2.
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
4100 pisteuo pisteuo Mark 9:24
Believe, to have faith (in, upon, or with respect to, a person or thing) i.e. give credit to; by implication to entrust (esp. one’s spiritual well-being to Christ): commit (to trust), put in trust with Unbelief, faithlessness, i.e. (negative) disbelief (want of Christian faith), or (positive) unfaithfulness (disobedience)
John 3:16
570 apistia apistian Mark 9:24
Mark 6:6
3. Today’s passage in Mark 9:14-29 was also in Matthew and Luke’s Gospels. Please read these to gain a fuller understanding. a. Matthew 17:14-21 b. Luke 9:37-43
The ending of Mark 9:29 has been discussed by biblical scholars within the hermeneutical dimension of textual criticism. This involves looking at the manuscripts (abbreviated as MSS) that are available for Scripture translation, as none of the “original” texts have survived. Decisions have been made based on the over 5000 Greek MSS that are in existence as well as references made in the teaching of the early church fathers. In comparing the New Testament MSS one sees that they include a number of variants between the words found in certain portions, and yet the “overwhelming majority of variants between manuscripts are of relatively minor importance.”49 Two important facts to remember are that “most variants are insignificant, and no doctrine of Scripture rests on a disputed passage.”50 The criterion used for determining translation has involved two factors, the external and the internal evidence. The external evidence emphasizes “the age, quality, grouping, and distribution of the MSS.”51 The internal evidence considers the habits of the copyists and the uniqueness and perspective of the individual authors of Scripture. The field of textual criticism is considered to be an art as well as a science. Since the MSS have been in the possession of the Christian church, textual criticism holds an important role in biblical interpretation. When your Bible includes words in [brackets] it means that not all MSS include this word or phrase. It is believed that some copyists in the early church might have added words 49
David A. Black, “Textual Criticism of the New Testament,” David S. Dockery, Kenneth A. Mathews, Robert B. Sloan, Editors, Foundations for Biblical Interpretation, Nashville, Broadman & Holman Publishers, 1994, p. 397. 50 Ibid., p. 412. 51 Ibid., p. 397. 143
Lesson 14 to the text for clarification. In the case of Mark 9:29, not all New Testament MSS include the words “and fasting.” Another example in this same teaching is that the NIV did not include Matthew 17:21, but rather goes from verse 20 to verse 22. Some scholars believe that the words of Matthew 17:21 were added later to bring a unity to Matthew and Mark’s Gospels. The truth is that the early church knew that fasting was important and the church encouraged fasting and participated in this discipline. Part of understanding the meaning of Scripture is to seek the context of a verse. We are to always “look around” the verses being studied to see the paragraph in which the verse/s appeared. We are also to consider the teaching of the chapter that holds the paragraph. We are to look at the entire book to see how the theme and teaching of the book presents a unified message. With this in mind, please read Mark 2:18-22 to review what was said about fasting and then think about Mark 9:29 and Matthew 17:21. What is your response to this?
4. Mark 9:30-32 provides Jesus’ second passion prediction. (The first appeared in Mark 8:31.) Read Mark’s passage again and then Matthew and Luke’s teaching of Jesus’ prophecy, and compare these three accounts. a. Mark 9:30-32 b. Matthew 17:22,23 c. Luke 9:43-45
5. The spiritual discipline of fasting was very important in the early Christian church. What is your personal response to the spiritual discipline of fasting? Are you open to the Lord leading you to fast concerning a need that you, or someone else has? Israel’s sacred writings give us an understanding of the teaching that prayer expressing a faith in God is a “powerful agent against evil.”52 Please take the time to read the Deuteronomy passage and one of these Psalms to see what the disciples had been taught about God and victory over evil. When you read these Old Testament Scriptures you sense the faith that God expected of His people. Let these words be your prayer and ask God to use these words to help your unbelief. a. The Shema: Deuteronomy 6:4-9 and Deuteronomy 11:13-21 (This was always read when the Jewish people assembled together.) Continued on the next page.
52
Lane, Ibid., p. 335. 144
Lesson 14 b. Psalm 3
c. Psalm 91
What does today’s passage in Mark say about the faith that is expected of Christ’s disciples? What does this mean to you personally?
Close by taking the time to consider how you respond when you are afraid. What does God want you to do? What has the Lord provided for you when you are frightened? What Scriptural truths do you need to commit to memory to help you with this?
Would you share this with someone this week that you might gain support and encouragement from another believer and seek accountability with this trusted individual? Here is a beautiful song focusing on the role of Jesus in the life of His followers. “He Hideth My Soul” A wonderful Savior is Jesus my Lord, a wonderful Savior to me; He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock, where rivers of pleasure I see. Refrain: He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock that shadows a dry, thirsty land; He hideth my life in the depths of His love, and covers me there with His hand, and covers me there with His hand. By Fanny Crosby and William J. Kirkpatrick
Day 4 – Mark 9:33-50 1. As you study Mark’s writings today, ask God to increase your understanding of what it means to be a disciple of Jesus. When Jesus left the earth He told His disciples that they were to go and make disciples, and to teach others what He had commanded. I long to have the heart of a true disciple of Jesus Christ, so that I might continually learn from Him and be obedient to His leading in my life. Join with me in prayer and then consider these observation questions. • Mark 9:33 tells us that Jesus’ disciples had been arguing about who was the greatest. What did Jesus say about the person who wants to be first?
•
How did Jesus illustrate His teaching to the disciples in Mark 9:36,37?
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Lesson 14 •
What do you learn about “other disciples” who claim the name of Christ in today’s passage?
•
To whom did Jesus direct His warning in Mark 9:42 and what would be the consequence?
•
What did Jesus say about the physical temptation to sin and what was His solution according to Mark 9:43-49? What was the reason Jesus gave for His teaching? Keep in mind Jesus’ attitude toward sin as you answer these questions. What part of the body is tempted? Jesus’ solution: The reason: a. b. c.
2.
•
What did Jesus teach about hell in Mark 9:43-48?
•
What was Jesus’ final instruction recorded in Mark 9?
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
1209 dechomai dexetai Mark 9:37 217 halas halas Mark 9:50 1514 eireneuo eireneuete Mark 9:50
Welcomes ISV, to receive (in various applications, literally or figuratively), accept, take; receives NASB & KJV Salt, figuratively speaking, prudence; to be wise, to choose to live by God’s wisdom Peace, to be (act) peaceful, to be at (have, live in) peace, live peacefully. From the word eirene (1515) peace.
Mark 6:11 Matthew 5:13 Romans 12:18
3. Today’s passage in Mark is also in Matthew and Luke’s Gospels, however Luke shared the entire account in two places, rather than in consecutive order. Read Matthew and Luke’s Gospels to find any additional information. Answer on the next page. 146
Lesson 14 a. Matthew 18:1-6
b. Luke 9:46-50
4. Mark 9:42-50 is shared in the following two portions of Matthew and Luke’s Gospels. Read these and jot down what they add to Mark’s writing. a. Matthew 18:6-11 b. Luke 17:1,2
In Colossians 4:5,6 Paul used a form of the same word for salt in his instructions to the people in Colossae. Look at Paul’s instructions to those who follow Christ and why Paul said that they were to live in this way.
5. Jesus took only three of His disciples to witness His “transfiguration.” Think of the impact this might have had on the rest of the disciples, and reflect on the remainder of the chapter and what was taught. What was being asked of Jesus’ followers in Mark 9? How can you as a member of the body of Christ be helped, or help another, with temptation?
A friend shared with me that while she was traveling with several Christians they began to share Scripture with one another that they had each committed to memory that focused on a specific need within the group. Each was so blessed by the time they spent “in” God’s word, hearing from others how the word ministers to their spirit and builds up in each other through God’s truth. This is certainly an example of biblical fellowship edifying the body. Try it in a group sometime and you will be blessed. May you be blessed by the words of this song as you close today. “Cleanse Me” Search me, O God, and know my heart today; try me, O Savior, know my thoughts, I pray. See if there be some wicked way in me; cleanse me from ev’ry sin and set me free. Lord, take my life and make it wholly Thine; fill my poor heart with Thy great love divine. Take all my will, my passion, self and pride; I now surrender, Lord in me abide. O Holy Ghost, revival comes from Thee; send a revival – start the work in me. Thy word declares Thou wilt supply our need; for blessings now, O Lord, I humbly plead. By J. Edwin Orr
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Lesson 14
Day 5 – Mark 9 Review 1. As Christ’s disciples we are told that we are to be like Him. Through the provision and power of the Holy Spirit we can be in the process of becoming like Jesus, our Savior. Remember that Christ’s disciples are teachable; they faithfully turn to God’s word for their source of wisdom and direction. Christ’s disciples also seek the counsel of other believers, and are willing to be in a discipleship relationship (for teaching and accountability) that they might continually grow in their faith. Thank the Lord for what He has revealed to you through His Holy and precious word and humbly and gratefully seek His wisdom as you review Mark 9. • Look at the sheet in the Appendix entitled “Evidence of Jesus Christ in The Gospel According to Mark.” As you read through Mark 9, select some of the words that Jesus spoke, and record them on the chart. • 2.
Now look at the different ways Jesus was addressed or what He was specifically called in Mark 9 and list those on the chart. Now look at what Jesus did in Mark 9 and list some of Jesus’ actions on the chart.
3. Some have seen a connection between Mark 1:9-11 and Mark 1:12,13 with Mark 9:28 and Mark 9:14-27. Look back at the first chapter and then compare these two passages. What do they have in common and how are they different? a. Mark 1:9-13 b. Mark 9:2-8,14-27
4. What is the evidence in Mark 9 that reveals the heart of Jesus? Review the chapter asking God to help you see Jesus’ heart. Record this information on the “Evidence…” chart. Jot down a key event from Mark 9 that will help you remember the message of this chapter. Close your time of review in prayer and as you do, ask the Lord what He longs for you to remember. Suggestion: A Retreat into the Rest of Mark’s Gospel After I finished reviewing Mark 9, I read through the rest of the Gospel. What a blessing to read these chapters after studying chapters 1-9. Might I suggest that you have a Gospel retreat? Perhaps you might go somewhere different than the place where you usually study, and worship God through the reading of His word. Try to read these remaining chapters in one sitting, without any interruption. Allow Mark’s account of Jesus’ life to minister to your spirit. Praise God for the blessing of your salvation. Praise God that you have a relationship with Him through the sacrifice of His holy and perfect Son. Reflect on the heart of Jesus as you close your time and worship your Lord and Savior, expressing your gratitude to Him. 148
Lesson 15
Lesson 15 – Mark 10 Introduction As you study Mark 10 you will see something different that took place while Jesus continued His teaching about the kingdom of God. Jesus revealed God’s plan and provision for those who would choose to follow Him. This week you will be asked to look for ways that Jesus and His followers demonstrated the spiritual disciplines we have studied in earlier lessons. As you continue in your commitment to study Mark’s Gospel, ask God to bless your time with Him in His holy word that you might keep on growing in your faith and in the knowledge and grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Day 1 – Mark 10, Comprehensive Chapter Study 1. Today you will begin the observation of Mark 10. Open in prayer asking for the Holy Spirit to illuminate your time in the word so that you will see what God has for you. • Read Mark 10 paying attention to the key words that were used. Mark the key words and then make a list of what is being stated about the key word. You can place these lists directly on the Scripture Worksheets in the right-hand margin under the heading of the key word, or place your lists on a separate sheet of paper. Now please list the key words in Mark 10 here.
2. As you read Mark 10, you can also look for contrasts and comparisons that were used by Mark. Write these here in the space provided, and/or mark your Scripture Worksheets in some way to show these contrasts and comparisons. Think about how these help you learn what is being taught. Contrasts (to show differences/opposites)
Comparisons (to show similarities and connections, using the words as or like)
3.
Now you will look at how Mark communicated Jesus’ teaching in this chapter. In Mark 10 you find some instructions. Read Mark 10:14b,19,21d,f,35b,37,47c, 48c,49d,52b and mark these as instructions. I think that Jesus spoke several admonitions in Mark 10. Look at Mark 10:5b,21c, 40,43a and if you agree mark these as admonitions. In Mark 10:9 and 15 Jesus shared warnings with His audience. Read these and see if you agree with that. I think that the rest of Mark 10 was written as declarative statements, that is words that declare the events and truths of Jesus’ ministry. 149
Lesson 15 4. Now please look for terms of expression that help you understand time, with words like “now, then, later,” etc. and mark these in a consistent way. Another means of understanding language is to examine the way verbs are used in writing. A simple explanation of verbs is that they are words that express action or the state of being, and they relate the words communicated within a framework of time. Verbs communicate that something is happening at the moment, or has happened in the past, or will happen in the future. (The verbs in the preceding sentence are in italics.) Verbs can also announce that an event has already taken place and the results of that event are continuing at the present time. Please take the time to read Mark 10 looking for the different verb tenses that were used, noting in the left hand margin references to the future, the present, or the past. This can add another dimension to your study, not because you will be studying verbs, but this will help you see what God has done in the past, what He is doing in your life today, as well as show you what the future holds. 5. As you read through Mark 10, mark words that express conclusion or show results or purpose with words like “for,” “for this reason,” “so that,” and “because.” Words that express conclusion are important to note because they show why the author wrote what he wrote and help you see the promises or consequences that will come. 6. As you have gone through this study of Mark’s Gospel, you have been asked to consider the spiritual disciplines that help believers to grow in their faith, modeled after Jesus and His disciples. I would challenge you to think about what spiritual disciplines were modeled or taught in Mark 10. Then could you think of one other verse from Scripture that addresses that spiritual discipline? The list below covers the disciplines we have studied and the lesson in which this was studied if that would help you with this. 1. Meditation 6. Fasting 11. Simplicity 2. Prayer 7. Service 12. Worship 3. Scripture memorization 8. Guidance 13. Confession 4. Bible study 9. Submission 14. The ministry of 5. Solitude 10. Celebration discipleship/mentoring These are the disciplines I see that are modeled in Mark 10.
Meditate on what these spiritual disciplines mean to you personally and close in prayer asking God to help you demonstrate these spiritual disciplines in your own life.
Day 2 – Mark 10:1-12 1. There are few families today that have not been affected by divorce. As you approach this lesson, continue to rely on the Holy Spirit to reveal to you God’s heart. Praise the Lord for His faithfulness to you as you continue to study His holy word. Begin with these observation questions. • Geography plays an important role in Mark 10. Where does Mark 10:1 say that Jesus was and why was He there? 150
Lesson 15
2.
•
Why did the Pharisees come to Jesus in this passage and what was their question?
•
According to Jesus, why was a man given the “right” to divorce his wife?
•
What was God’s plan from the beginning concerning marriage?
•
What is God’s role in marriage?
•
What did Jesus say about divorce in Mark 10:11,12?
Please examine these word studies of some of the key words used for this passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
647 apostasion apostasiou Mark 10:4 Matthew 19:7
Certificate of divorce ISV, written notice, something separative, i.e. (spec.) divorce, (writing of) divorcement KJV
Used three times in the New Testament. Matthew 5:31
4641 sklerokardia sklerokardian Mark 10:5 Mark 16:14 630 apoluo apoluse Mark 10:11 Matthew 19:9 3429 moichao moichatai Mark 10:11,12
Hardness of heart, hardheartedness, i.e. (specifically) destitute of spiritual perception
Used three times in the New Testament. Matthew 19:8
Divorces, puts away KJV, to free fully, relieve, release, dismiss, depart, let die, pardon
Matthew 5:31
Commits adultery, to commit adultery; to seduce or to be seduced, the word adultery means illicit intercourse Sexual immorality, harlotry, (including adultery and incest), idolatry, fornication, unchastity. To the Jews this meant adultery by the wife.53
Matthew 5:32
4202 porneia porneia Matthew 5:32
53
1 Corinthians 5:1
R.T. France, Matthew, Leicester, England, Inter-Varsity Press, 1989, p. 123. 151
Lesson 15 Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
25 agapao agapeseis Matthew 5:43
Love, to love in a social or moral sense. Unconditional, sacrificial love. A determined commitment to seek the other’s good, to cherish, shelter, nurture, edify, and show patience with one’s partner.54
Matthew 22:37-40 Ephesians 5:25-29
3. Please begin by reading Matthew’s perspective on Mark 10:2-8, and then the one verse in Luke where the word divorce was used. Write out what these two Gospels add to the Mark 10:2-12 account. a. Matthew 19:1-12 b. Luke 16:18
4. The Pharisees confronted Jesus about divorce and Jesus’ first reply was to reference Moses’ teaching. Then Jesus quoted from the Genesis account of the creation. Read these passages in their context and think about what they say and/or imply about marriage and divorce. Marriage: Divorce: a. Genesis 1:26,27 and Genesis 2:18-24
b. Deuteronomy 24:1-5 (Do not miss the source of sin in this passage.)
5. Look at these Old Testament verses to see God’s heart and His standard and then write out the message of these verses. a. Exodus 20:14
54
D.A. Carson, The Sermon on the Mount, Grand Rapids, Baker Book House Co., 1982, p. 46. 152
Lesson 15 b. Deuteronomy 5:18,21
c. Malachi 2:13-16
6. The Hebrew sacred writings had strict instructions concerning adultery. Look at these two passages to see the penalty God gave for someone who committed adultery. a. Leviticus 20:10 b. Deuteronomy 22:22-29
7. The Appendix includes New Testament Scripture entitled “Marriage, Adultery, and Divorce in the New Testament and Extra-biblical Writings.” If you have the time to look at these verses, it might clear up some questions about today’s themes. 8. F.T. France said that divorce was “man undoing the work of God.”55 In regards to divorce, the Christian church must “balance on a tightrope by proclaiming both the sanctity of marriage while proclaiming God’s full mercy and forgiveness to sinners who violate that sanctity.”56 When we go against God’s commands and His will, there will be consequences for our sin, and these consequences must be lived out day by day. However as God’s children we must not miss the blessing of God’s mercy and His grace, because these are sufficient for each new day. Do you know someone who has been divorced? Have you yourself been divorced? How can someone who has been divorced live in God’s forgiveness, mercy, and grace day by day? If you are married, what do you do to protect your marriage? What do you need to do?
Continued on the next page.
55 56
France, Ibid. David S. Dockery and David E. Garland, Seeking the Kingdom, Wheaton, Harold Shaw Publishers, 1992, p. 60. 153
Lesson 15 What contributes to the hardness of one’s heart? Remember that Jesus said in Mark 7:21 “for it is from within, from the human heart that evil thoughts comes, as well as sexual immorality, stealing, murder, adultery…” Job 24:15 says that the eye of the adulterer waits for the twilight, saying no eye shall see him, and he even disguises his face.” Then Job 31:1 declares that Job made a covenant with his eyes (to not sin), and asked why then should he look lustfully at a woman. A biblical example of this is told in the life of Joseph when he chose not to sin against God and ran from Potiphar’s wife while she was tempting him, (in Genesis 39:2-9). The apostle James wrote concerning temptation in James 1:12-16. Read this passage and ask God what you need to do today to protect your heart from becoming hard. “How blessed is the person who endures temptation! When he has passed the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised those who keep on loving Him. When someone is tempted, he should not say, “I am being tempted by God,” because God cannot be tempted by evil, and he doesn’t tempt anyone. Instead, each person is tempted by his own desire, being lured and trapped by it. When that desire becomes pregnant, it gives birth to sin, and when that sin grows up, it gives birth to death. Stop being deceived, my dear brothers,” James 1:12-16. Close in a time of prayer asking God for His counsel and comfort regarding the condition of your heart that might cause, or has caused you to be hard toward Him.
Day 3 – Mark 10:13-31 1. As we have moved through Mark’s Gospel we have continuously looked at Jesus’ words, His actions, and the evidence of His heart toward His Father and people. Allow this next passage to encourage your heart. Open in prayer asking God to reveal His truths to you as you study. Begin with these observation questions. • Answer the following questions based on Mark 10:13-16: What does this passage tell you about the disciples?
Based on Jesus’ actions and words, what do you learn about His attitude toward children? (By the way, this is the only place in Scripture where it is shared that Jesus “laid hands” on someone.)
What does Jesus say about the kingdom of God in this passage?
•
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Answer the following questions based on Mark 10:17-31: What was the question of the man that came to Jesus?
Lesson 15 According to Mark 10:18, what was Jesus’ first response to the man’s question? What six commandments did Jesus quote in His second response to the man’s question? a. b. c.
d.
e.
f.
What did Jesus ask the man to do in Mark 10:21 and what did He promise the man?
What did the man’s responses in Mark 10:20,22 reveal about himself? a. Mark 10:20 b. Mark 10:22 What did Jesus say about the kingdom of God in Mark 10:23?
Briefly summarize the message Jesus presented to the “rich” man and His disciples in Mark 10:18-31?
2.
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
18 agathos agathe Mark 10:17 2816 kleronomeo kleronomeso Mark 10:17
Good, benefit, good (-s, things), well; benevolent, profitable, useful57
Romans 7:18a
Inherit, to be an heir to; to inherit or obtain for an inheritance, as the children of Israel inherited the Promised Land58 Life, life (time); referring to the principle of life in the spirit and soul,59 used for eternal life Persecutions, (from 1377) to pursue, (suffer) persecution
Galatians 5:21
2222 zoe zoen Mark 10:17 1375 diogmos diogmon Mark 10:30
John 20:31 Romans 8:35
57
Zodhiates, Ibid., p. 878. Ibid., p. 928. 59 Ibid., p. 919. 58
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Lesson 15 3. The incident told in Mark 10:13-16 is also in Matthew and Luke’s Gospels. Read these and look for any additional information. a. Matthew 18:3 b. Matthew 19:13-15 b. Luke 18:15-17
4. Read what Peter said about the believer’s attitude in 1 Peter 2:2. How does this relate to Jesus’ teaching?
5. The next passage in Mark 10:17-31 is also recorded in Matthew and Luke’s Gospels. Read these and add the information you find here. a. Matthew 19:16-26 b. Luke 18:18-30
Now look at related teaching on Matthew and Luke to see what Jesus taught about this same theme. a. Matthew 6:19-21 b. Luke 12:31-34
6. Mark 10:21 tells us that Jesus looked at the “rich” man and loved him. Look at the context of this verse and think about what brought on this response by Jesus.
Please read the Ten Commandments in Exodus 20:1-26 and note which commands Jesus did not mention in His conversation with the “rich” man. What does this tell you about Jesus and the man who came to Him?
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Lesson 15 7. The Jewish people in the first century were looking for a Messiah that would deliver them from the rule of the Romans. Phil Olson says that some people today are looking for a “M & M Messiah” that is someone who has the “More and More for Me and Mine Syndrome.”60 The priorities of His followers were very important to Jesus. Matthew 6:33 records Jesus’ words to His followers, telling them that they are to seek first His kingdom and His righteousness and all these things (what they need) would be added to them. It has been said that we are to “hold loosely” what God has given to us. Proverbs 1:32 says that the prosperity of fools destroys them. Dallas Willard says we must learn how to “possess without being possessed.”61 Do you love your possessions and put your trust in them and serve them? In Mark 4:19 Jesus said that the worries of life, the deceitful pleasures of riches, and the desires for other things come in and choke the word so that it cannot produce a crop. Are these areas of vulnerability for you? Can you truly say that you love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength? In Philippians 4:13, the apostle Paul wrote that he could do everything through Christ who strengthens him. In this passage he talked about learning how to be content in all circumstances, whether in plenty or in want. Is that a lesson you need to learn? Stop and ask God, and if so, ask Him to help you with this issue of possessions and priority. Some are willing to share in the blessings of being a follower of Christ, but do not want to share in His sufferings. Please close by reading Peter’s words in 1 Peter 2:18-25 and ask God for His perspective on your present circumstances that you might have His wisdom and rely on His strength to endure whatever He entrusts to you.
Day 4 – Mark 10:32-52 1. In yesterday’s passage the man who confronted Jesus called Him “good.” The nation of Israel knew that one of the attributes of God is that He is good. Please open by reading these verses as your prayer before God, and come to Him as a child, expecting Him to fulfill the promise of the Holy Spirit who will guide you into His truth. Good and upright is the Lord; therefore He instructs sinners in the way, Psalm 25:8. O taste and see that the Lord is good; how blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him, Psalm 34:8. Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; for His covenant love is everlasting, Psalm 118:1,29. Praise the Lord, for the Lord is good; sing praises to His name for it is lovely, Psalm 135:3. The Lord is good to all, and His mercies are over all His works, Psalm 145:9.
•
Begin by reading Mark 10:32-52 and then answer these observation questions. Where were Jesus and the disciples according to Mark 10:32?
•
What did Mark say about the emotional response of the disciples and the others who were following at the beginning of today’s passage?
•
What did Jesus say about His future in Mark 10:33,34?
60
Ronald J. Sider, Philip N. Olson, and Heidi R. Unruh, Churches That Make a Difference, Grand Rapids, Baker Books, 2002, p. 147. 61 Willard, Ibid., pp. 214, 215. 157
Lesson 15
2.
•
After James and John asked to sit with Jesus in His glory, what did Jesus promise them according to Mark 10:39,40?
•
In Mark 10:31 Jesus told His disciples that those who were first would be last, and that the last would be first. What prompted Jesus to say what He did in Mark 10:43?
•
What did Jesus say about Himself in Mark 10:45?
•
What was revealed about Bartimaeus in Mark 10:46-52?
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
2632 katakrino katakrinousin Mark 10:33 3146 mastigoo mastigosousin Mark 10:34
Condemn, to judge against, i.e. sentence: … damn
Romans 8:3
Whip, to flog, scourge; from # 3148 a whip (literally the Roman flagellum for criminals)
Hebrews 12:6
3. Jesus told His disciples for the third time what was awaiting Him in Mark 10:32-34. Read these verses and then what Matthew and Luke wrote about this to add any additional information. a. Matthew 20:17-19 b. Luke 18:31-34
Because this is the third place that Jesus told of His coming suffering, please look back at Mark 8:31-33 and Mark 9:30-32 and put these together with the passages given above. Jesus’ prophecy of His suffering:
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Lesson 15 4. What Mark recorded in Mark 10:35-45 is also found in Matthew’s Gospel. Read Matthew 20:20-28 to see Matthew’s perspective on this and what Matthew added that was not in Mark’s Gospel.
5. Jesus’ response to James and John’s request for sitting in the place of honor must have surprised them. Mark 15:27 says that when Jesus was crucified two robbers were with Him, one on His right and one on His left. In the Old Testament the word “cup” was often used as a symbol for suffering.62 Look ahead to Jesus’ prayer in Mark 14:36 to see how Jesus used the word cup here. Remember we studied John 6 and Jesus’ words to His disciples stating that the relationship they were to have with Him was to be a relationship of intimacy, evidenced by the “drinking of His blood and the eating of His flesh.” Look at the word baptism as it was used by the apostle Paul in Romans 6:1-14. What does Romans 6:3-7 say about the life of a disciple?
What was Jesus telling His followers about what would come into their lives?
6. In the last paragraph of Mark 10, Mark presented another miracle. Read the end of Mark 10 and then Matthew and Luke’s Gospels to see what they added. a. Matthew 20:29-34 b. Luke 18:35-43
7. Jesus presented His followers with a picture of what their discipleship would cost. Please close by reading the teaching in Philippians 2 about Jesus, and what we are to do as His followers. This portion of Scripture became a hymn in the early church. Let this be your prayer of dedication before the Lord. Our God sits on the throne longing for His children to be obedient and faithful to Him. Have the same attitude among yourselves that was also in Christ Jesus. In God’s own form existed he, And shared with God equality, Continued on the next page.
62
Cole, Ibid., pp. 165,166. 159
Lesson 15 Deemed nothing needed grasping. Instead, poured out in emptiness, A servant’s form did he possess, A mortal man becoming. In human form he chose to be, And lived in all humility, Death on a cross obeying. Now lifted up by God to heaven, A name above all others given, This matchless name possessing. And so, when Jesus’ name is called, The knees of everyone will fall, Where’er they are residing. Then every tongue in one accord, Will say that Jesus Christ is Lord, While God the Father praising, Philippians 2:5-11 ISV.
Close in prayer concerning your response to what Jesus taught in Mark 10.
Day 5 – Mark 10 Review 1. Today you will review Mark 10. Ask God to help you remember what took place in this chapter, and take the time to fill in the “Evidence of Jesus Christ in The Gospel According to Mark” sheet. • As you read through Mark 10, select some of the words that Jesus spoke, and record them on the “Evidence…” chart. •
Now look at the different ways Jesus was addressed or what He was specifically called in Mark 10 and list those on the chart.
2.
Record some of Jesus’ actions that are in Mark 10 on the chart.
3.
Record what was said about the kingdom of God in these verses from Mark 10. a. Mark 10:14,15 b. Mark 10:23,24,25
4. What is the evidence in Mark 10 that revealed the heart of Jesus? Record this information on the “Evidence…” chart. Jot down a key event from Mark 10 that will help you remember the message of this chapter. Please take some time to meditate on what you have recorded, and looking back over the chapter again, write down in the last column what this means to you personally. Based on the list of spiritual disciplines that we have studied (see page 150), what spiritual disciplines were modeled in Mark 10 and what spiritual discipline could have been modeled that was not? What does this say to you as a Christian?
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Lesson 16 – Mark 11 Introduction As you approach Mark 11 this week, you will probably have questions about this point in Jesus’ life and ministry. As you proceed, ask God to help you memorize a verse from this chapter that will be especially meaningful to you as you study.
Day 1 – Mark 11, Comprehensive Chapter Study 1. Today you will work on the observation of Mark 11. Open in prayer that you might humble yourself before God, asking for wisdom and understanding in His holy word. • Read Mark 11 paying attention to the key words that were used. Mark the key words and then make a list of what is being stated about the key word. You can place these lists directly on the Scripture Worksheets in the right-hand margin under the heading of the key word, or place your lists on a separate sheet of paper. Now please list the key words in Mark 11 here.
•
As you read through the chapter, what spiritual disciplines do you see demonstrated in this chapter? Look at the list on page 150 for a reminder of these disciplines.
2. As you read Mark 11, you can also look for contrasts and comparisons that were used by Mark. Write these here in the space provided, and/or mark your Scripture Worksheets in some way to show these contrasts and comparisons. Think about how these help you learn what is being taught. Contrasts (to show differences/opposites)
Comparisons (to show similarities and connections, using the words as or like)
3. Remember one way to see the message of Scripture is to look at how the author communicated truth. In Mark 11 you also find some instructions. Read Mark 11:2b,22b,23c,24b,c,25b, 29c,30b and mark these as instructions. As I read through Mark 11, I read Mark 11:9b,10 as an exhortation. Mark this exhortation in some way. I think that Jesus spoke an admonishment in Mark 11:14b,16,17c. Notice what was said here and mark these admonitions. The words of Mark 11:26 were a warning that Jesus spoke to His audience. Notice that there is a consequence for this behavior. 161
Lesson 16 I think that the rest of Mark 11 was written as declarative statements, since so much of the chapter includes phrases that declare the events and truths of Jesus’ ministry. 4. Now please look for terms of expression that help you understand time, with words like “now, then, later,” etc. and mark these in a consistent way. Another means of understanding language is to examine the way verbs are used in writing. A simple explanation of verbs is that they are words that express action or the state of being, and they relate the words communicated within a framework of time. Verbs communicate that something is happening at the moment, or has happened in the past, or will happen in the future. (The verbs in the preceding sentence are in italics.) Verbs can also announce that an event has already taken place and the results of that event are continuing at the present time. Please take the time to read Mark 11 looking for the different verb tenses that were used, noting in the left hand margin references to the future, the present, or the past. This can add another dimension to your study, not because you will be studying verbs, but this will help you see what God has done in the past, what He is doing in your life today, as well as show you what the future holds. 5. As you read through Mark 11, mark words that express conclusion or show results or purpose with words like “for,” “for this reason,” “so that,” and “because.” Words that express conclusion are important to note because they show why the author wrote what he wrote and help you see the promises or consequences that will come. 6. This week you have started Mark 11! Praise the Lord for His faithfulness that He has demonstrated to you that will help you continue to look at the life and ministry of Jesus, your Savior. As the people came to the side of the road when Jesus passed, what was their attitude toward Jesus? Think about how you might express that same attitude toward the Lord as you close your time in the word today.
Days 2 and 3 – Mark 11:1-26 1. Since there are several ties between the first paragraphs of Mark 11, in the next two days, you will study the first 26 verses together. Prayerfully read Mark 11:1-26 and then consider these observation questions. • Bethany was a town around six miles southeast of Jerusalem on the road to Jericho. The town of Bethphage was on the Mount of Olives, less than two miles from the eastern gate of Jerusalem. Read Mark 11:1-10 and answer the “5 Ws and an H” questions concerning the opening of Mark 11.
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Lesson 16 •
On Palm Sunday the Christian church commemorates Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem. This took place the week before the Hebrew Passover celebration. Jesus asked His disciples to find a donkey for Him to ride. Read the prophecy in Zechariah 9:9 to see what had been predicted and how Jesus fulfilled this prophecy. Write out what is said about the Messiah in Zechariah 9:9. (Zion was a name used for Jerusalem after David had conquered the city for Israel in a battle.)
•
In Jesus’ (parable) teaching in Mark 4 we studied the difference that soil makes as to whether someone is fruitful. Jesus said that some would not hear the word because “the worries of life, the deceitful pleasures of riches, and the desires of other things would come in and choke the word so that it can’t produce a crop” in Mark 4:19. I thought of this teaching when I read Mark’s account of Jesus’ curse upon the fig tree. The vine and the fig were two symbols used for the nation of Israel. What did Jesus say about the future of the fig tree?
•
What did Jesus say about what He found in the temple?
•
According to Mark 11:18, how did the Hebrew leaders respond to Jesus?
•
What did Jesus say it means to have faith in God in Mark 11:22-26? You might express this teaching in the form of a diagram or an equation (a mathematical sentence) to help you remember Jesus’ words.
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Lesson 16 2.
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
5614 hosanna hosanna Mark 11:9
Hosanna, of Hebrew origin [OT 3467 and OT 4994], although Aramaic. Oh save! An exclamation of adoration. Israel also used this word with the meaning, “Save, we pray now.” Blessed, from a compound of NT 2095 and NT 3056; to speak well of, i.e. (religiously) to bless (thank or invoke a benediction upon, prosper) Moneychangers, from a presumed derivative of kollubos (a small coin; probably akin to NT 2854); a coindealer. Service offered for a profit. Prayer, prayer (worship); by implication, an oratory (chapel)
Only used in the Matthew, Mark, and John’s passages of this account.
2127 eulogeo eulogemenos Mark 11:9 2855 kollubistes kollubiston Mark 11:15 4335 proseuche proseucheés Mark 11:17 1484 ethnos ethnesin Mark 11:17 2672 kataraomai kateraso Mark 11:21 1252 diakrino diakrithe Mark 11:23
4336 proseuchomai proseuchesthe Mark 11:24 863 aphiemi aphiete Mark 11:25b
Mark 10:16
John 2:15
Mark 9:29
Nations, a race (as of the same habit), i.e. a tribe; specially, a foreign (nonJewish) one (usually by implication), pagan; taken from the Latin word used for farmer, pagani Cursed, from NT 2671; to execrate; by analogy, to doom
Matthew 28:19
Doubt, to separate thoroughly, i.e. (literally and reflexively) to withdraw from, or (by implication) oppose; figuratively, to discriminate (by implication, decide), or (reflexively) hesitate Prayer ISV, to pray to God, i.e. supplicate, worship, pray
James 1:6
Forgive, to send forth, in various applications (as follow), cry, forsake, lay aside, leave, let (alone, be, go, have), omit, put (send) away, remit, suffer, yield up
Matthew 6:12,14
Romans 12:14
James 5:13,14,17,18
3. The event presented in Mark 11:1-10 is found in each of the Gospels. Read these other accounts to add whatever they record that Mark did not record. a. Matthew 21:1-11 b. Luke 19:28-40 c. John 12:12-19
There is more room on the next page. 164
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4. Jesus’ response to the fig tree (in Mark 11:13,14,20-26) is also found in Matthew’s Gospel. Read Matthew 21:18-22 to see how Matthew presented this.
5. The account of Mark 11:15-19 is recorded in each of the Gospels, although some believe that John’s record is from an earlier point in Jesus’ ministry, because the incident appears toward the beginning of John’s Gospel. Read these three references and record any additional information. a. Matthew 21:12-17 b. Luke 19:45-48 c. John 2:13-22
Many scholars believe that Jesus was in the court of the Gentiles when He “cleansed” the temple. In these Gospel passages Jesus quoted several Old Testament Scriptures. Please read these verses in their context and see who said these words and why. a. In John 2:17, a quotation from Psalm 69:9
b. In Mark 11:17a, a quotation from Isaiah 56:7
c. In Mark 11:17b, a quotation from Jeremiah 7:11
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Lesson 16 6. Jesus lived His life before His disciples as a testimony of His Father who had sent Him while He was teaching His followers how they were to live. Read James 1:2-6 to see how this agrees with Jesus’ instructions to His disciples in Mark 11:22-26.
7. Take the time to think about the connection between each of the events in Mark 11:126. What do these events tell you about Jesus? What do these events speak to you about yourself as a Christian? a. The Triumphal Entry:
b. The Fig Tree: (A botanical note – on fig trees, fruit forms first and then the leaves come. Fig trees have two crops, one in spring, one in summer. Some fig trees in warmer climates can even have three crops in one year. Look at John’s prophecy in Matthew 3:10.)
c. Jesus’ Experience in the Temple:
8. Please read what Jesus told His followers in Matthew 6:14 about the importance of how they were to relate with others to see how this agrees with Mark 11:25,26. How do these verses speak to you personally?
The nation of Israel went through many difficult times, and some of their struggles were caused by their own disobedience. In Israel, specific Psalms were to be read at specific feasts and holy days. Psalm 118 was read at the Passover feast and during the processional for the Feast of Tabernacles. Close by reading Psalm 118 for a reminder of what Israel thought about God and voice these truths before the Lord as your own prayer. Is there a “mountain of doubt” in your life today? Is there some area where you have given up, and your faith has been impacted? Maybe you have prayed for a long time about a concern or problem, and the answer you have prayed for has not yet come to be. What are you to do about this? Answer on the next page. 166
Lesson 16
I thought of the hymn “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee” because of the way the word doubt was used. Allow these words to minister to your spirit. “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee” Joyful, joyful we adore Thee, God of glory, Lord of love; hearts unfold like flowers before Thee, hail Thee as the sun above. Melt the clouds of sin and sadness, drive the dark of doubt away; giver of immortal gladness, fill us with the light of day! Thou art giving and forgiving, ever blessing, ever blest, well-spring of the joy of living, ocean depth of happy rest! Thou the Father Christ our Brother – All who live in love are Thine; teach us how to love each other, lift us to the joy divine. By Henry Van Dyke and Ludwig Van Beethoven
Day 4 – Mark 11:27-33 1. Today’s passage cannot be studied without a reminder to review what came before, as well as a call to look ahead to what follows. Prayerfully approach this passage asking the Holy Spirit to speak truth to you so you might see the eternal perspective of these verses. Read Mark 11:15-18, 27-33 and then Mark 12:1-12 and answer these observation questions. • Who confronted Jesus in this passage and where were they?
•
What did Jesus ask about John the Baptist?
•
Jesus and John the Baptist were both teachers who were considered “unlettered rabbis,” as they had not gone through the formal training in the Rabbinic schools in Israel. Read Matthew 3:7-12 as a reminder of John the Baptist’s ministry. The Pharisees were responsible for the synagogue system and the Sadducees were responsible for the temple in Jerusalem and they came to “check out” what John was saying and doing. What instruction did John give to Jewish leaders in Matthew 3:8? (Remember that Matthew wrote his Gospel to the Hebrew people using a perspective that would have been understood by the nation of Israel.)
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2.
•
What influenced the Jewish leaders’ answer according to Mark 11:31,32?
•
Next week we will study Jesus’ parable in Mark 12:1-11, but for today read Mark’s comment about the Jewish leaders that had come to Jesus in Mark 11:28. What do you learn about them in Mark 12:12?
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
3056 logos logon Mark 11:29
Question ISV, something said (including the thought); by implication a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive…word Prophet, from a compound of NT 4253 and 5346; a foreteller (“prophet”); by analogy, an inspired speaker; by extension, a poet. In the Old Testament the prophets spoke to people on behalf of God.
John 1:1
4396 prophetes prophetes Mark 11:32
Matthew 21:11
3. Jesus’ encounter with the Jewish leaders in Mark 11:27-33 is also found in Matthew and Luke’s Gospels. Look at what these said and add any information to what Mark wrote. a. Matthew 21:23-27 b. Luke 20:1-8
4. The issue with the Jewish leaders was Jesus’ authority. Earlier in Jesus’ ministry this same issue came up when He was in Jerusalem. Please read John 7:1-14 to see the response to Jesus of His family, the Jewish leaders, and the crowds. Note what Jesus said about His authority. a. Jesus’ family: b. The Jewish leaders: Continued on the next page. 168
Lesson 16 c. The crowd of people:
5. When Jesus began His ministry of teaching in the synagogue in Capernaum, Mark 1:22 tells us that the people were amazed at His teaching for He was teaching them as one having authority, and not as the scribes. The scribes were the Scriptural authorities in Israel. The Sanhedrin was the Jewish council who was in authority over Israel at the time of Christ. Most scholars agree that those who confronted Jesus in Mark 11:27 were members of the Sanhedrin. The council had 71 members and was presided over by the high priests, also called the chief priests, who rotated their responsibilities year by year. The Sanhedrin was also made up of Sadducees, Pharisees, scribes, and elders. Moses had appointed 70 elders when he was leading Israel, and the Sanhedrin council began in the Intertestament era in Israel. The Roman government allowed the authority of the Sanhedrin council to continue while they “ruled” Israel. Close by reading John 12:44-50 to see what Jesus said about His authority. As you read jot down the phrases Jesus used to describe Himself and then close by praying a prayer of worship, so that you can praise and thank God for your Savior Jesus Christ.
Day 5 – Mark 11 Review 1. As you approach this day of review, join your heart with the Lord in seeking His wisdom and His truth to equip you for today and whatever is ahead in your tomorrows. Read through the chapter and select some of the words Jesus spoke and some of the passages about Him to record on the “Evidence…” sheet. • As you read through Mark 11, select some of the words that Jesus spoke, and record them on the chart. • 2.
Now look at the different ways Jesus was addressed or what He was specifically called in Mark 11 and list those on the chart. Now look at what Jesus did in Mark 11 and list some of Jesus’ actions on the chart. 169
Lesson 16 3. What is the evidence in Mark 11 that reveals the heart of Jesus? Review the chapter asking God to help you see Jesus’ heart. Record this information on the “Evidence…” chart. Jot down a key event from Mark 11 that will help you remember the message of this chapter. Please take some time to meditate on what you have recorded, and looking back over the chapter again, write down in the last column what this means to you personally. At the beginning of studying Mark 11 you were asked to think about what spiritual disciplines were modeled in the chapter. Look over the “Evidence…” chart and think about what was not modeled by the people involved. Which of the spiritual disciplines could have led them to a deeper relationship with the Lord. (Remember the spiritual disciplines are listed on page 150.)
What does this say to you as a Christian?
Close by singing a song or hymn with a message that relates to what the Lord has taught you this week as you studied Mark 11.
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Lesson 17
Lesson 17 – Mark 12 Introduction Mark 12 begins with a parable and ends with an illustration. You will want to look into this chapter to see what happened next to Jesus in Jerusalem, and to ask God what He would want you to apply to your own life from this next chapter. You might ask God to help you memorize a verse from the lesson this week. Does it challenge you to know God’s word better when you read how Jesus quoted from the Hebrew Scriptures every time Scripture answered a question or explained God’s plan? I want to know Scripture so that I am ready to give a defense whenever I have the opportunity. I want to know Scripture so that its truth will help me as well as those that God brings into my life.
Day 1 – Mark 12, Comprehensive Chapter Study 1. Today you will begin the observation of Mark 12. Ask the Lord to renew your strength and give you a fresh passion as you approach His holy word this week. • Read Mark 12 paying attention to the key words that were used. Mark the key words and then make a list of what is being stated about the key word. You can place these lists directly on the Scripture Worksheets in the right-hand margin under the heading of the key word, or place your lists on a separate sheet of paper. List the key words in Mark 12 here.
2. As you read Mark 12, you can also look for contrasts and comparisons that were used by Mark. Write these here in the space provided, and/or mark your Scripture Worksheets in some way to show these contrasts and comparisons. Think about how these help you learn what is being taught. Contrasts (to show differences/opposites)
Comparisons (to show similarities and connections, using the words as or like)
3. Now look at how Mark presented the truths in the chapter. In Mark 4 you studied several of Jesus’ parables and we recognized that this was an effective way for Jesus to communicate. Mark 12:1-8 provides another parable that Jesus spoke to His “accusers.” In Mark 12 you find some instructions. Read Mark 12:15c,17b,c,29b,31 and mark these as instructions. As I read through Mark 12, I read Mark 12:14b-e as an exhortation, and yet we are told that the Pharisees and some of the Herodians were not sincere in their approach to Jesus. However, at “face” value, these words were an exhortation to Jesus. Exhortations are also found in Mark 12:32b,34b,43,44. Mark these exhortations in some way. 171
Lesson 17 Jesus spoke words of admonishment in Mark 12:15b,24,27b. Read these and mark them as admonitions. Jesus spoke a warning in Mark 12:38-40. Read this warning and consider the impact this would have had on His audience. I think that the rest of Mark 12 was written as declarative statements, since so much of the chapter includes phrases that declare the events and truths of Jesus’ ministry. 4. Now please look for terms of expression that help you understand time, with words like “now, then, later,” etc. and mark these in a consistent way. Another means of understanding language is to examine the way verbs are used in writing. A simple explanation of verbs is that they are words that express action or the state of being, and they relate the words communicated within a framework of time. Verbs communicate that something is happening at the moment, or has happened in the past, or will happen in the future. (The verbs in the preceding sentence are in italics.) Verbs can also announce that an event has already taken place and the results of that event are continuing at the present time. Please take the time to read Mark 12 looking for the different verb tenses that were used, noting in the left hand margin references to the future, the present, or the past. This can add another dimension to your study, not because you will be studying verbs, but this will help you see what God has done in the past, what He is doing in your life today, as well as show you what the future holds. 5. As you read through Mark 12, mark words that express conclusion or show results or purpose with words like “for,” “for this reason,” “so that,” and “because.” Words that express conclusion are important to note because they show why the author wrote what he wrote and help you see the promises or consequences that will come. 6. Now as you have finished the first part of observing Mark12, think about your heart toward God today. Meditate on how this Scripture has spoken to you personally about a particular aspect of your faith. Allow the Holy Spirit to speak to you through this chapter that you just studied and close in prayer as you finish.
Day 2 – Mark 12:1-12 1. Today you will look at another parable that Jesus told that you might see its impact on the Jewish leaders He was addressing. Ask God to help you understand what this parable in Mark 12:1-11 would have meant to these Jewish leaders. Begin today’s lesson by reading Isaiah 5:1-7 and then complete these observation questions. • Who were the main characters in Jesus’ parable and briefly summarize what happened.
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2.
•
What were to be the consequences of this behavior according to Mark 12:9?
•
What did the parable mean to the high priests, scribes, and elders that had been listening?
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
2298 thaumastos thaumasteé Mark 12:11 6381 Hebrew pala' Psalm 118:23
Marvelous, wondered at, i.e. (by implication) wonderful
John 9:30
Wonderful, marvelous, a primitive Isaiah 9:6,7 root; properly, perhaps to separate, i.e. distinguish (literally or figuratively); by implication, to be (causatively, make) great, difficult
3. Jesus’ parable in Mark 12:1-11 is also in Matthew and Luke’s Gospels. Look at these two passages to find any additional information. a. Matthew 21:33-46 b. Luke 20:9-19
4. Turn to Isaiah 5:1-7 and look at how this parable is similar and how it is different from Jesus’ parable recorded in the Synoptic Gospels. How did Isaiah explain this parable in the last verse?
5. The Rabbinic parables that were taught after Jesus’ time were exegetical, designed to help Israel understand Scripture. Jesus’ parables were predominately eschatological, 173
Lesson 17 pointing to the future. 63 How would you title Jesus’ parable? What is the focus or the theme of this parable? You could look at your Bible which probably has an editor’s idea as to the theme of Mark 12:1-11, but I would challenge you to think about this in this way, so that you see the message yourself, instead of relying on someone else’s comment. “Coming up with” a theme helps you sort through what is important.
6. Peter wrote about the identity of those who follow Jesus Christ in 1 Peter 2:4-10 and quoted the Psalm 118:22 verse that Jesus quoted in His parable. Please close by reading Peter’s words and let these truths encourage you in two ways. First that your spirit may believe who you are as a child of God and secondly, that you might acknowledge Jesus as the foundation of your faith. If you do not know these verses, you might write them out and ask God to help you memorize them, so you do not forget who you are!
Day 3 – Mark 12:13-27 1. Throughout The Gospel According to Mark, we have witnessed Jesus being confronted by members of the Jewish leadership. In today’s passage this continues. Open in prayer asking God to reveal His truth as you spend time with Him today in His word. Begin with the observation questions. • Who is the word “they” referring to in Mark 12:13? •
Why did the Pharisees and Herodians come to Jesus?
•
How did these men describe Jesus according to Mark 12:14 and how would you respond to their words based on what you have studied about Jesus in Mark’s Gospel? The Jewish leaders’ words: Your response to these statements: a. b. c. d.
63
McArthur and Johnston, Ibid., p. 172. 174
Lesson 17
2.
•
What was the question the Jewish leaders asked and how did Jesus answer? The Roman Empire called their Emperor Caesar. The question: Jesus’ answer:
•
The Sadducees were the aristocracy of Israel who were in authority over the temple in Jerusalem. The Sadducees only followed the Torah (the first five books of the Old Testament), and as Mark wrote they claimed that there is no resurrection. What was the Sadducees question to Jesus in Mark 12:23?
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What was Jesus’ answer in Mark 12:26,27 and what does Jesus say about God?
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
227 alethes aleetheés Mark 12:14 5272 hupokrisis hupókrisin Mark 12:15
Sincere ISV, true (as not concealing)
Philippians 4:8
Hypocrisy, acting under a feigned part, deceit, condemnation, dissimulation. Associated with Greek drama.
1 Peter 2:1
3. The Pharisees were responsible for analyzing the law and helping the nation of Israel to live out these laws given by God through Moses. Jesus’ conversation with the Pharisees and Herodians was also recorded in Matthew and Luke’s Gospels. Read their accounts and make a note of anything you read that is not in Mark 12:13-17. a. Matthew 22:15-22 b. Luke 20:20-26
Remember that the Herodians were a Jewish political party who were loyal to the Herod dynasty that had been appointed by Rome. Being loyal to the Herod dynasty also meant that these Jewish leaders were loyal to the Roman Empire. Look back at Mark 3:6 for a reminder of when the Herodians came to see Jesus. Briefly summarize the circumstances of this visit.
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Lesson 17 4. As you look at Mark 12:18-27 remember that the Sadducees only read and followed the Torah, and they did not believe in a resurrection or in angels. Some have said about them that because of this they were “sad, you see.” Look at the other two Synoptic Gospels to see what was added by Matthew and Luke to Mark’s record in Mark 12:18-27. a. Matthew 22:23-33 b. Luke 20:27-40
A custom of the ancient near east made provision for a woman who became a widow before giving birth to a child, so that she could conceive through her husband’s brother. This custom was very important because a man’s legacy would be extended in this way. This law became known as the levirate law, from the Latin word levir that means “husband’s brother.” Even before Moses gave this law to the nation of Israel, the custom was extended among the sons of Judah. Genesis 38:6-26 tells us how God punished Judah’s sons for not honoring this law and how Tamar recognized this law. Read Deuteronomy 25:5-10 to see the law as Moses shared with the people of Israel, noting the reason for this and the consequence that was given for disobedience. a. The reason for this law (Deuteronomy 25:6): b. The consequence for disobedience (Deuteronomy 25:9):
5. Some scholars believe that the question of the Sadducees was to ridicule the teaching of the Pharisees (and Jesus). The nation of Israel (aside from the Sadducees) believed that God as a covenant keeping God would resurrect those who remained faithful to Him. Israel recognized that their Patriarchs were protected, guided, helped, and sustained by the Lord God. Israel’s understanding of this was summed up in their interpretation of Exodus 3:6 that Jesus quoted in Mark 12:26. We would read this and think that Jesus was affirming His Father’s words to Moses, but to Israel these words spoke of God’s faithfulness and the promise of more to come for faithful Israel. God did not say I was… but rather “I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” Because the Sadducees did not believe in the resurrection, Jesus’ reference to a passage that proclaimed that the Patriarchs “still had a relationship with God” would have greatly impacted the Sadducees. In this passage, Jesus might have been referencing a Hebrew prayer (called Amidah) which says, ‘Thou quickenest the dead with great mercy… and keepest Thy faith to them that sleep the dust.’64 Two passages of the Hebrew Scriptures taught that those who were resurrected would be like angels, according to I Enoch, and II Baruch.65 Isaiah 26:19 and Daniel 12:2 are two Old Testament references that teach about the resurrection. 64
Cranfield, Ibid., p. 374. Ibid., p. 375. 176 65
Lesson 17 The apostle Paul taught about the gospel and the resurrection. Read 1 Corinthians 15:20-58 to see Paul’s explanation of the power of God in the mystery of the resurrection. According to 1 Corinthians 15:42-44, what will be the evidence of the resurrection?
6. At the time of Christ, to not pay taxes to Rome was treason against the Roman Empire. Clear instructions were given to the early church concerning how Christians were to respond to government authorities. Unless the “law of the land” asks you to violate God’s standard, believers are to be subject to the ruling government. Please read Romans 13:1-7 to see what Paul taught about this. When the Roman Emperor later declared Christianity as “illegal,” several local governors asked what to do about the Christians in their region. These governors defended Christians because they were good citizens and paid their taxes. How does Paul’s teaching agree with Jesus’ words in Mark 12:17?
Several people came to Jesus with questions when He was in Jerusalem. When you have questions about how to live out your faith, where do you go for answers? Read 2 Timothy 3:16,17 and list what Paul said about Scripture’s purpose.
Where do you go for answers to your questions? Please close by singing this song if you know the melody, or simply allow these words to be your prayer before the Lord. “All the Way My Savior Leads Me” All the way my Savior leads me, what have I to ask beside? Can I doubt His tender mercy, Who thru life has been my Guide? Heav’nly peace, divinest comfort, here by faith in Him to dwell! For I know, whate’er befall me, Jesus doeth all things well; for I know whate’er befall me, Jesus doeth all things well. All the way my Savior leads me, cheers each winding path I tread, gives me grace for every trial, feeds me with the living bread. Though my weary steps may falter and my soul a-thirst may be, gushing from the Rock before me, Lo! a spring of joy I see; gushing from the Rock before me, Lo! a spring of joy I see. By Fanny Crosby
Day 4 – Mark 12:28-44 1. Today you will study the last portion of Mark 12. As Scripture reveals the heart attitude of individuals, so Scripture will always help us see ourselves. Hebrews 4:12,13 says “the word of God is living and active. It is sharper than any double-edged sword, piercing 177
Lesson 17 until it divides soul and spirit, joints and marrow, as it judges the thoughts and purposes of the heart. No creature can hide from Him. Everything is naked and helpless before the eyes of the one to whom we must give an account,” ISV. Ask God to speak to you through today’s passage in Mark, that this Scripture might be to you all that God designed it to be. Open with these observation questions • Who asked the next question of Jesus and why? •
How did Jesus answer the man’s question?
•
What do you learn about the questioning man from his response to Jesus’ answer?
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Several Psalms were written as prophecy proclaiming truths about the coming Messiah and were known as Messianic Psalms. Jesus quoted from one of these Psalms in Mark 12:36. To those who heard His words this verse had deep significance. Israel knew that the coming Messiah would come from the line of David, from the tribe of Judah. David had been anointed by the prophet Samuel and served through the power of the Holy Spirit. David used different Hebrew words for Lord in Psalm 110. You might want to take the time to look at the word studies in Question 2 to see the words David used to help you understand what David said. a. Why did Jesus quote Psalm 110:1?
b. What does Mark 12:36 tell you about God?
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2.
According to Mark 12:41-44, what did the widow’s action reveal about her?
Please examine these word studies for Hebrew words David used in Psalm 110.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
3068 Yehovah Yehovah Psalm 110:1
LORD, (the) self-Existent or Eternal; Jehovah, Jewish national name of God; the covenant name of God, reminding Israel of God’s relationship with them. This name was revered and was never pronounced by the Jewish people.66
Psalm 110:4
66
Spiros Zodhiates, The Complete Word Study Old Testament, Chattanooga, AMG Publishers, 1994, p. 2322. 178
Lesson 17 Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
113 'adown 'adown Psalm 110:1
Lord, from an unused root (meaning to rule); sovereign, i.e. controller (human or divine). Used by David as the Lord, his Messiah.67 Lord, the Lord (used as a proper name of God only); the plural form of #113 adown, and yet “singular” in meaning.68
Psalm 114:7
136 'Adonay 'Adonaay Psalm 110:5
Psalm 2:4
3. Jesus was asked which commandment was the most important in Mark 12:28. This account is in each of the Synoptic Gospels. Read Matthew and Luke’s record of this and add the additional information from these two. a. Matthew 22:34-40 b. Luke 10:25-28
Jesus answered the scribe’s question by quoting the well-known prayer of the Israeli people called “The Shema.” The Scriptures that made up the prayers are found in the Appendix. Look at these Scriptures that were so familiar to Israel. 4. In Mark 12:36 Jesus quoted from David’s Messianic Psalm (Psalm 110). Look at the word studies in Question 2 to see that David used two different words for Lord in Psalm 110:1, (and another form of the word Lord in Psalm 110:5). This might help you understand how David’s words were understood by Israel, as God speaking to the Messiah. At the end of Mark 10 we looked at what took place when Bartimaeus approached Jesus near Jericho. This blind man called Jesus the Son of David. Israel knew that the Messiah would come through the tribe of Judah, as did David. The apostle Paul said in Romans 1:3,4 that Jesus was “according to the flesh a descendant of David, and according to the spirit of holiness was proved to be the mighty Son of God by the resurrection from the dead.” Look at Matthew and Luke’s record of the Mark 12:35-37 passage to see how they recorded this event. a. Matthew 22:41-46 b. Luke 20:41-44
5. Jesus’ warning in Mark 12:38-40 is in both Matthew and Luke’s Gospels. Matthew’s account is much longer than the other two. You might look at who Jesus warns and summarize why He said this. 67 68
Walvoord and Zuck, Ibid., p. 873. Zodhiates, Ibid., p. 2297. 179
Lesson 17 a. Matthew 23:1-36
b. Luke 20:45-47
6. In Israel, people gave monetary gifts at the temple that were used in two ways. The gifts were divided between the priests (for God’s work) and the poor (to minister to the needs of the destitute). Think about how the offerings were used, as your reread the end of Mark 12. Matthew did not write about this, but please record your insight into Luke 21:1-4 after reading Luke 20:46,47.
7. Many came to Jesus with questions. Remember the “rich man” that came to Jesus in (Mark 10:17) when he asked Jesus how he could obtain eternal life. The scribe asked Jesus (in Mark 12:28) “What is the greatest commandment?” After Jesus answered the scribe, Mark tells us “no one dared to ask Him another question.” Jesus had a very important interaction with another man who came to Him earlier in His ministry. Read John 3:1-21 and write a brief explanation of what Jesus said was necessary for entering the kingdom of God.
As an affirmation of your faith in Jesus Christ, please write out a simple prayer of praise and thanksgiving regarding the truths shared about God and Jesus in this passage.
Close by praying a prayer of praise and worship as you look over the truths revealed in John 3.
Day 5 – Mark 12 Review 1. When I was thinking about the widow in Mark 12:41-44, I thought of the prophet Samuel’s Mother, Hannah. Hannah’s prayer in 1 Samuel 2:1-10 revealed the heart of a woman who had an understanding of God. Many of the phrases that Hannah used later appeared in David’s Psalms. How precious that God revealed Himself to this woman. Please open by reading this prayer and notice the end of verse 3. How does this speak to you? Humbly seek the wisdom of the Holy Spirit as you review Mark 12. 180
Lesson 17 •
Look at the sheet in the Appendix entitled “Evidence of Jesus Christ in The Gospel According to Mark.” As you read through Mark 12, select some of the words that Jesus spoke, and record them on this chart.
•
Now look at the different ways Jesus was addressed or what He was specifically called in Mark 12 and list those on the chart.
2.
Now look at what Jesus did in Mark 12 and list some of Jesus’ actions on the chart.
3. Jesus was asked several specific questions in Mark 12. As a review, jot down who asked these questions and then summarize the issues that the questions addressed. Who asked the question? What was their point? a. Mark 11:28 b. Mark 12:14 c. Mark 12:23 d. Mark 12:28 Reflecting on these encounters, briefly summarize Jesus’ experiences in Mark 12.
4. What is the evidence in Mark 12 that reveals the heart of Jesus? Review the chapter asking God to help you see Jesus’ heart. Record this information on the “Evidence…” chart. Jot down a key event from Mark 12 that will help you remember the message of this chapter. Please take some time to meditate on what you have recorded, and looking back over the chapter again, write down in the last column what this means to you personally. Before you finish your time today, take the time to record some of the phrases and/or verses that you have might have memorized from Mark 12.
Jesus said that we are to love the Lord with all our heart. What does that mean to you?
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Lesson 17 Jesus said that we are to love the Lord with all our soul. What does that mean to you?
Jesus said that we are to love the Lord with all our mind. What does that mean to you?
Jesus said that we are to love the Lord with all our strength. What does that mean to you?
How would you explain the ways in which you show your love for the Lord? You might express this in a number of different ways. Some would write a poem, some would write a letter to the Lord, and some would want to share with a friend what this means.
Close by praying before the Lord that you might be able to express your love to Him through His word and continue to grow in your faith. 182
Lesson 18
Lesson 18 – Mark 13 Introduction Mark 13 shares Jesus’ important teaching in answer to His disciples’ questions on the Mount of Olives. This teaching became known as the Olivet Discourse. Matthew and Luke also include the Olivet Discourse, Matthew’s in an expanded form. Before you start this week’s study you might take the extra time to sit in a comfortable place and read each of these three accounts. Mark 13:1-37
Matthew 24 and Matthew 25
Luke 21:5-36
Join with me as we approach this portion of Mark’s Gospel, thanking the Lord for His word and His faithfulness to all of His children.
Day 1 – Mark 13, Comprehensive Chapter Study 1. Today you will begin the observation of Mark 13. Open in prayer asking for the Holy Spirit to illuminate your spirit so that you will see what God has for you in Jesus’ Olivet Discourse. • Read Mark 13 paying attention to the key words that were used. Mark the key words and then make a list of what is being stated about the key word. You can place these lists directly on the Scripture Worksheets in the right-hand margin under the heading of the key word, or place your lists on a separate sheet of paper. Now please list the key words in Mark 13 here.
•
Mark 13 contains several warnings that Jesus gave to His followers. Please write out these warnings and what Jesus said to explain these warnings. As you do this ask God how these apply to your own life. a. Mark 13:9
b. Mark 13:23
c. Mark 13:33
2. As you read Mark 13, you can also look for contrasts and comparisons that were used by Mark. Write these here in the space provided, and/or mark your Scripture Worksheets in some way to show these contrasts and comparisons. Think about how these help you learn what is being taught. 183
Lesson 18 Contrasts (to show differences/opposites)
Comparisons (to show similarities and connections, using the words as or like)
3. Remember one way to see the message of Scripture is to look at how the author communicated truth. You have already looked at the important warnings Jesus spoke to His disciples. In Mark 13 you find many instructions. Read Mark 13:1c,4a,5b,7b,10,11b,14,15,16, 18,21b,d,f,28a,35a,37b and mark these as instructions. As I read through Mark 13, I read Mark 13:11c,20 as exhortations, personal messages to encourage the disciples in the midst of Jesus’ teaching. Mark these exhortations in some way. I think that the rest of Mark 13 was written as declarative statements, since so much of the chapter includes phrases that declare events and truths. 4. Now please look for terms of expression that help you understand time, with words like “now, then, later,” etc. and mark these in a consistent way. Another means of understanding language is to examine the way verbs are used in writing. A simple explanation of verbs is that they are words that express action or the state of being, and they relate the words communicated within a framework of time. Verbs communicate that something is happening at the moment, or has happened in the past, or will happen in the future. (The verbs in the preceding sentence are in italics.) Verbs can also announce that an event has already taken place and the results of that event are continuing at the present time. Please take the time to read Mark 13 looking for the different verb tenses that were used, noting in the left hand margin references to the future, the present, or the past. This can add another dimension to your study, not because you will be studying verbs, but this will help you see what God has done in the past, what He is doing in your life today, as well as show you what the future holds. 5. As you read through Mark 13, mark words that express conclusion or show results or purpose with words like “for,” “for this reason,” “so that,” and “because.” Words that express conclusion are important to note because they show why the author wrote what he wrote and help you see the promises or consequences that will come. 6. Mark 13 provides for us the longest teaching passage by Jesus in Mark’s Gospel. For many this chapter is not “easy reading.” Aside from questions that come to your mind concerning this chapter, think about what Jesus’ words ask of you. Close in prayer using the ACTS acronym to direct your thoughts. Continued on the next page.
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Lesson 18
A: In adoration to the Lord for who He is C: Confessing whatever the Lord leads you to confess T: Expressing thanksgiving to the Lord for all He has done on your behalf S: Supplication, seeking the Lord’s help with whatever concerns you have personally as well as for the concerns of others.
Day 2 – Mark 13:1-13 1. I know some Christians who love studying prophecy and I know some who are not that interested in prophecy. Those in the latter group would even skip over those portions of Scripture rather than spend the time seeking God’s meaning in those events that are “yet to come.” There is no denying that Mark 13 contains prophecy! Open in prayer asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into the truths of Mark 13, and to be your source of comfort and counsel as you focus on this passage. First begin with these observation questions. • In Mark 13:2, Jesus spoke of the temple and the stone structures that were in Jerusalem. Solomon was led by God to build the magnificent temple that was later destroyed by conquering enemy armies. The Roman ruler Herod the Great set out to (re-) build the temple, and his building program was carried out for more than fifty years. At the time of Christ, the temple in Jerusalem was the pride of Israel, although it was not yet completed. Herod’s stones for the foundation of the temple were beveled along each edge of the perimeter so everyone would recognize the extent of the buildings that he was responsible for throughout Israel. The foundation stones for the temple were enormous slabs of carved rock, over ten feet in length. In the last century, some of these foundation stones were excavated in Israel at the extension of the western wall that became known as the “Wailing Wall.” In the first century, the Jewish people came to Jerusalem to pray and to worship God. Jewish people today go to this wall now known as the “Western Wall” in Jerusalem to pray and to worship God. What did Jesus say about the stones and buildings in Mark 13:2?
•
What were the questions Peter, James, John, and Andrew asked of Jesus in Mark 13:4?
•
Most would interpret Jesus’ words of Mark 13:5-13 as the prophecy of the time leading up to the destruction of the temple in A.D. 70 by the Roman leader Titus. (This Roman Titus is not to be confused with Titus, the disciple Paul asked to lead the Christian church on the island of Crete.) Imagine the impact Jesus’ words would have had upon a Jewish person who had watched the construction of the temple take place over the course of their lifetime. Look at Jesus’ instructions to His disciples in Mark 13:5 and Mark 13:7. What were Jesus’ instructions? What did Jesus say would happen? Continued on the next page. 185
Lesson 18
•
2.
What was the personal warning Jesus gave to His disciples in Mark 13:9 and who was going to be involved in these circumstances?
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
4105 planao planeésee Mark 13:5,6 991 blepo blépete Mark 13:9
Deceive, to (properly, cause to) roam (from safety, truth, or virtue). With the sense of someone being led astray. Take heed, a primary verb; to look at (literally or figuratively). “Stresses the perception of the seeing one.”69
2 Timothy 3:13 Mark 13:2,5,23,33
3. Mark 13:1-13 is also found in Matthew and Luke’s Gospels. Read these two Gospels and add any additional information that they give. a. Matthew 24:1-14 b. Luke 21:5-19
4. Look at Matthew 10:16-23 to see the teaching there that relates to today’s passage in Mark 13.
5. The book of Acts shares about the disciples being challenged and persecuted for their faith as followers of Jesus Christ. Look at these Scriptures to see the evidence of Jesus’ 69
Zodhiates, The Complete Word Study New Testament, p. 897. 186
Lesson 18 words coming true in the lives of the leaders in the early Christian church. Summarize who was involved in these passages and how Jesus’ words in Mark 13:9-11 were fulfilled. a. Acts 5:17-42
b. Acts 14:1-7 c. Acts 24:1-3 d. Acts 25:1-27
6. Jesus’ words to His disciples were like the words of the Old Testament prophets, as there was a “near event and a far event”70 that would take place. The Gospels record that Jesus had just been confronted by the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem, and He was now prophesying of the judgment that was awaiting these leaders and the unbelieving Jewish people. History records that in the time between Jesus’ words and A.D. 70, there were threats of war against the Jews by three Roman Emperors, Caligula, Claudius, and Nero. Fifty thousand Jewish people were killed in Seleucia alone. In this same time period there were earthquakes in Crete, Rome, Phrygia, and Campania. There were also four famines during this time, including the one in Judea in A.D. 44, mentioned in Acts 11:28. In Jesus Christ, God was about to establish the New Covenant through the blood of His sinless Son. This New Covenant would be eternal and for all who confess with their mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in their heart that God raised Him from the dead to be saved, according to Romans 10:9. Jesus promised His disciples that the Holy Spirit would help them when they need to make a defense for the precious good news of the Lord Jesus. The statement Jesus made about being saved is a reference to someone being “saved” physically, rather than being saved “spiritually.”71 What did Jesus ask of His followers in these two verses and how are you to apply these commands to your own life today? a. Mark 13:5 b. Mark 13:9
Close in prayer concerning the application of these verses in your life today.
70 71
Walvoord and Zuck, Ibid., p. 166. Wuest, Kenneth S., Wuest’s Word Studies, Grand Rapids, Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1973, p. 249. 187
Lesson 18
Days 3 and 4 – Mark 13:14-37 1. In the next two days you will finish the study of Mark 13. As you open please read Mark 13:14-37 asking God to continue to reveal to you His truths that you might understand the message Jesus spoke to His disciples in the last week of His life before His crucifixion. Begin with these observation questions. • Some biblical scholars interpret Mark 13:14-23 as a prophecy of the time when the Roman armies destroyed Jerusalem, and others believe that this section of Jesus’ prophecy refers to the “end times” (the tribulation) that will be ushered in by the Antichrist right before Jesus’ Second Coming. At the time of the destruction of Jerusalem, many people fled to the east in the mountains of the present day country of Jordan. Today, Christians in Israel are preparing to flee to the east of Israel believing that the second fulfillment might affect them personally. Based on the instructions in this passage, list four signs of this time from Mark 13:14-24.
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•
How did Jesus ask His followers to pray? What does this say to you about prayer?
•
Why did Jesus say that God had limited “those days” in Mark 13:20?
•
What will be the work of the false christs and false prophets according to Mark 13:22?
•
What did Jesus say about the suffering (affliction, tribulation) of “those days” in Mark 13:19,24,25?
Lesson 18
2.
•
What was the point of Jesus’ lesson (or parable) of the fig tree in Mark 13:28-31?
•
Were you puzzled by how Jesus used the phrase “this generation” in Mark 13:30? Evidently the early church had decided that Jesus’ return was going to take place before the death of those disciples who had served Him in His ministry. The church tied this statement into the destruction of Jerusalem. Another way to interpret the phrase is to believe that Jesus was referring to those people who would be living at the time of His Second Coming. To accept the second interpretation would mean that Jesus was prophesying that the events were going to take place within a short period of time. Read this verse in its context and reflect on the timing of Jesus’ words. (What role does context have in interpreting this passage?)
•
Please write out what Jesus declared in Mark 13:31.
•
What does Mark 13:32 tell you about Jesus?
•
What is the message of Jesus’ parable in Mark 13:34-37?
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
946 bdelugma bdélugma Mark 13:14
Abomination, a detestation, i.e. (specially) idolatry. In this passage, the desecration of the Jewish places of worship by the Antichrist.72 Desolation; despoliation. From NT 2049, (bring to, make) desolate, come to nothing.
Revelation 17:4,5
2050 eremosis ereemoóseoos Mark 13:14
72
Used three times in the New Testament. Luke 21:10
Zodhiates, Ibid., p. 896. 189
Lesson 18 Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
2347 thlipsis thlipsis Mark 13:19 1588 eklektos eklektoús Mark 13:20 1586 eklegomai exeléxato Mark 13:20
Suffering, afflicted, affliction KJV, burdened, persecution, tribulation NASB, trouble; being crushed Elect, select; by implication, favorite; chosen, elected
James 1:27
Chosen, middle voice from NT 1537 and NT 3004 (in its primary sense); to select, to choose for oneself; preference and choice from among many.73 False christs, a spurious Messiah. The false Christ affirms himself to be the Christ, while the antichrist denies that there is a Christ.74 False prophets, a spurious prophet, i.e. pretended foreteller or religious impostor
1 Corinthians 1:27,28
5580 pseudochristos
pseudóchristoi Mark 13:22 5578 pseudoprophetes pseudopropheétai Mark 13:22 69 agrupneo agrupneíte Mark 13:33 1127 gregoreuo greegoreíte Mark 13:35
Mark 13:22,27
Used twice in the New Testament. Matthew 24:24 1 John 4:1
Watch out ISV, keep on the alert NASB, watch KJV, to be sleepless, i.e.: keep awake
Used four times in the New Testament. Ephesians 6:18
(Keep on) watching ISV, be on the alert NASB, watch ye KJV, to keep awake, i.e. watch (literally or figuratively). The name Gregory came from this and it became a common name in the early church as a reminder to “watch.”
Mark 13:34,37
3. Mark’s words in Mark 13:14-27 were also written in Matthew and Luke’s Gospels. Read these two and add any information the other two synoptic Gospels included. a. Matthew 24:15-31 b. Luke 21:20-28
4. Jesus quoted several Old Testament Scriptures in His prophecy to His disciples. As you read these verses look at the context of Jesus’ quotations. a. Isaiah 13:10 b. Isaiah 34:4
73
Ibid., p. 910. Ibid., p. 968. 190 74
Lesson 18 c. Joel 2:10,11 d. Daniel 7:13 5. As Jesus continued with His teaching, Matthew and Luke also wrote about this passage. Read their Gospels to look for any information that Mark 13:28-31 did not include. a. Matthew 24:32-35 b. Luke 21:29-33
6. Matthew 24:36-44 provides an expanded account of the end of Mark 13. First read Mark 13:32-37 and then Matthew 24:36-44, to see the extra information that Matthew included.
7. Jesus’ instruction to “Watch!” was expanded in Matthew 25 with three parables. If you can take the time to read these parables, look for Jesus’ message to His disciples in Matthew 25. a. Matthew 25:1-13
b. Matthew 25:14-30
c. Matthew 25:31-46
8. What is the message that God has for you in Mark 13? Please meditate on the Scripture you have studied this week and ask God what He would have you do with this prophetic chapter. Continued on the next page. 191
Lesson 18 Please write out your own prayer to God concerning the truths that He revealed to you while you studied Mark 13. Will you share this with someone that God has led into your life?
Day 5 – Mark 13 Review 1. Mark 13 shares more teaching by Jesus than any other chapter in Mark’s Gospel. Begin today’s review by praying for the Holy Spirit’s guidance as you read the chapter and then ask the Lord what He would have you remember about this prophecy. • Look at the sheet in the Appendix entitled “Evidence of Jesus Christ in The Gospel According to Mark.” As you read through Mark 13, select some of the words that Jesus spoke, and record them on the chart. • 2.
Now look at the different ways Jesus was addressed or what He was specifically called in Mark 13 and list those on the chart. Now look at what Jesus did in Mark 13 and list Jesus’ actions on the chart.
3. What is the evidence in Mark 13 that reveals the heart of Jesus? Review the chapter asking God to help you see Jesus’ heart. Record this information on the “Evidence…” chart. Jot down a key event from Mark 13 that will help you remember the message of this chapter. Please take some time to meditate on what you have recorded, and looking back over the chapter again, write down in the last column what this means to you personally. Before you finish your time today, take the time to record some of the phrases and/or verses that you have might have memorized from Mark 13.
While prophecy points to a time in the future, there is always something from Scripture that God would have you learn and apply in your own life. Close in prayer about the application that God would have you make from Mark 13.
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Lesson 19
Lesson 19 – Mark 14 Introduction Mark 14 is the longest chapter in Mark’s Gospel. As you study this week you will no doubt be familiar with the events that took place at the end of Jesus’ life on earth in the city of Jerusalem. Prayerfully approach the Scriptures you will be studying each day so that the events that were so carefully recorded might come alive to you and minister to your every need.
Day 1 – Mark 14, Comprehensive Chapter Study 1. Today you will begin the observation of Mark 14. As you approach this week’s lesson ask the Holy Spirit to help you see how the events of this chapter are the result of events in Jesus’ ministry before this time. Ask the Lord to minister to you through your study this week. • Read Mark 14 paying attention to the key words that were used. Mark the key words and then make a list of what is being stated about the key word. You can place these lists directly on the Scripture Worksheets in the right-hand margin under the heading of the key word, or place your lists on a separate sheet of paper. Now please list the key words in Mark 14 here.
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Look at Mark 14 and record those who were supportive of Jesus and those who were in opposition to Him. Those who were supportive: Those in opposition:
2. As you read Mark 14, you can also look for contrasts and comparisons that were used by Mark. Write these here in the space provided, and/or mark your Scripture Worksheets in some way to show these contrasts and comparisons. Think about how these help you learn what is being taught. Contrasts (to show differences/opposites)
Comparisons (to show similarities and connections, using the words as or like)
3. Now look at how Mark communicated his message in Mark 14. There are several instructions in the chapter. Read the following and mark these as instructions: Mark 14:6b,13b,c,14b,15b,22d,32c,34c,36c,38a,41b,e,42a,b,44c,65d. As I read through Mark 14, I read Mark 14:31b,36d,62b as exhortations. Mark these exhortations in some way. 193
Lesson 19 I think that Jesus spoke several admonitions in Mark 14. Read Mark 14:27b,30 (in the form of a prophecy), and 37d. Read these verses and mark these if you agree. Jesus’ words of Mark 14:21c,d gave a warning to His audience. Mark this warning. I think that the rest of Mark 14 was written as declarative statements, since so much of the chapter includes phrases that declare the events and truths of Jesus’ ministry. 4. Now please look for terms of expression that help you understand time, with words like “now, then, later,” etc. and mark these in a consistent way. Another means of understanding language is to examine the way verbs are used in writing. A simple explanation of verbs is that they are words that express action or the state of being, and they relate the words communicated within a framework of time. Verbs communicate that something is happening at the moment, or has happened in the past, or will happen in the future. (The verbs in the preceding sentence are in italics.) Verbs can also announce that an event has already taken place and the results of that event are continuing at the present time. Please take the time to read Mark 14 looking for the different verb tenses that were used, noting in the left hand margin references to the future, the present, or the past. This can add another dimension to your study, not because you will be studying verbs, but this will help you see what God has done in the past, what He is doing in your life today, as well as show you what the future holds. What was the setting of the events in Mark 14? 5. As you read through Mark 14, mark words that express conclusion or show results or purpose with words like “for,” “for this reason,” “so that,” and “because.” Words that express conclusion are important to note because they show why the author wrote what he wrote and help you see the promises or consequences that will come. 6. I have a copy of the Bible on audio tape, and this past week I listened to Mark’s Gospel. What a blessing to hear this precious word being read to me. You might take the time to listen to Mark’s Gospel from start to finish. After spending so much time studying the words and deeds of Jesus, I know you will be blessed. Some people are called “audio” learners, and for those who learn best in this way, hearing words really helps the person learn and remember information. Before the end of this study please take the time to listen to all of Mark’s Gospel on tape. If you do not have a copy, you might ask a friend who does if you might borrow theirs. Close in prayer concerning the message of Mark 14. Ask the Holy Spirit to examine your heart toward your Savior, so that nothing would get in the way of you loving Him.
Day 2 – Mark 14:1-26 1. In today’s lesson you will be asked to look at a familiar passage of Scripture. Open in prayer asking the Holy Spirit to illuminate God’s precious truths to you. You certainly want the Lord to minister to you through the events of Mark 14. Begin with these observation questions based on Mark 14:1-11. • What was the goal of the high priests and scribes and what criteria was involved according to Mark 14:1,2? 194
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Remember when Jesus voiced the two Greatest Commandments to the questioning scribe in Mark 12:29-31? What does the woman’s action in Mark 14:3 reveal to you about her love for the Lord?
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How did “some” respond to the woman’s action?
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What did Jesus say about the woman’s action?
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What does Mark 14:1-11 tell you about Judas and what do you learn about the high priest? Judas: The high priest:
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Answer the next observation questions based on Mark 14:12-21. What did Mark teach about the Passover in Mark 14:12?
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Does the finding of the room for the Passover meal remind you of Jesus sending out two of His disciples to find the colt He rode on for His entry into Jerusalem? Some have suggested that the room He used was the home of John Mark, although we cannot know for sure. After the disciples came for the meal, what did Jesus say and what was the warning that He spoke in Mark 14:21?
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The early church called the Lord’s Supper the eucharist, taken from the Greek word expressing thanksgiving and praise. The literal translation from the Greek is that the prefix eu means good, and charis is the Greek word for grace. The disciples celebrated the “first” Eucharist, that later became known as the Lord’s Supper. What did Jesus teach His disciples about Himself in this passage?
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
3957 pascha pascha Mark 14:1,12
Passover, (the meal, the day, the festival, or the special sacrifices connected with it): (associated with) Easter in the Christian church
Hebrews 11:28
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Lesson 19 Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
106 azumos azúmoon Mark 14:1,12
(Festival of) Unleavened Bread ISV, unleavened, i.e. (figuratively) uncorrupted; (in the neutral plural) specially (by implication) the Passover week when Israel was not to eat leaven Stealth ISV & NASB, craft KJV, from an obsolete primary verb, dello probably meant to decoy; a trick (bait), i.e. (figuratively) wile Nard, ‘ointment of’ spikenard of foreign origin "nard." An expensive fragrant ointment from the root of an herb in the valerian family.75 Denarii, of Latin origin, (of ten assess), pence, penny [-worth]
Acts 12:3
Covenant ISV, testament KJV; properly, a disposition, i.e. (specially) a contract (especially a devisory will), a binding pledge or agreement
Hebrews 13:20
1388 dolos dóloo Mark 14:1 3487 nardos nárdou Mark 14:3 1220 denarion denarion Mark 14:5 1242 diatheke diatheékees Mark 14:24
Romans 1:29 (deceit)
John 12:3
John 6:7
3. Mark’s introduction to Mark 14 also appears in each of the other gospels. Please look at these references to see what they say about the opening of Mark 14. a. Matthew 26:1-5 b. Luke 22:1,2 c. John 11:45-53
4. The event that Mark recorded in Mark 14:3-9 is found in Matthew and John’s Gospels. There is a similar event recorded in Luke 7:36-40, but most believe that this occurred earlier in Jesus’ ministry. Look at what Matthew and John say. a. Matthew 26:6-13 b. John 12:1-8
5. Mark 14:10,11 records the next event in Jesus’ week. Read the other Synoptic Gospels’ accounts of this event. a. Matthew 26:14-16 b. Luke 22:3-6
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Holman Bible Dictionary, Ibid., p. 1008. 196
Lesson 19
6. Jesus’ words in Mark 14:12-21 are recorded in each of the Gospels. Read these passages and look for any additional information. a. Matthew 26:17-25 b. Luke 22:7-14,21-23 c. John 13:21-30
7. Mark 14:22-26 tells of the Lord’s Supper and both of the other Synoptic Gospels present this same account. Read these passages looking for any other information. a. Matthew 26:26-30 b. Luke 22:15-20
8. The Hebrew people familiar with the book of Jeremiah would have recognized Jesus’ words referring to the “blood of the covenant” that He spoke in Mark 14:24. Please look at these Scriptures from the prophet and then the words of clarification in the book of Hebrews. a. Jeremiah 31:31-34 (Hebrews 8:7-12) b. Hebrews 8:13 through Hebrews 9:22
9. The Passover was a very important event for the nation of Israel, recorded in Exodus 12. God told Israel to apply blood to their doorway and promised to protect them from the destroyer who would otherwise enter their houses to kill their first-born son. This blood was taken from a slain lamb and through this obedience to God they declared their commitment to their Creator. God commanded His people to (annually) remember their time of suffering as slaves in Egypt and then celebrate God’s mighty hand of deliverance and their salvation from foreign rule. The blood that Jesus was about to shed at the same time as the Passover lamb was being slain was to be the final blood sacrifice ever offered to God. It was God’s plan that Jesus was to pay the price for mankind’s sin, and become the atonement (the wrath removing sacrifice) on behalf of those who believe in Him. The blood placed around the door in Egypt pointed to Jesus who called Himself the door of the sheep in John 10:7, the way for mankind to be right with God. Continued on the next page. 197
Lesson 19 The Passover meal was accompanied by the reading of the holy and sacred writings of the Hebrew people. These Scriptures were taken from the books of Exodus, Deuteronomy, and the Psalms. Psalm 118 was a song that was sung at the Passover festival, and many believe that it was this hymn that was mentioned in Mark 14:26. Part of Psalm 118 was shouted a few days earlier as Jesus entered Jerusalem riding on a donkey. Please read Psalm 118 as your song of praise to God. The Lord’s Supper is the time for the Christian church to remember their Savior and His life and death on their behalf. Please meditate on these next questions allowing the Holy Spirit to guide you into God’s truth: a. What do you do on a daily basis to “remember” Jesus? (Remember that the spiritual disciplines were taught as a means of bringing a believer to Christian maturity.)
b. What do you do to keep your heart “soft” toward Jesus? c. Do you need to eliminate something from your life that gets in the way of you faithfully “remembering” Jesus? God directed His people to offer to Him a sacrifice of praise in Leviticus 7:12. Hebrews 13:15 extended the instruction saying that it is through Jesus that Christians can do this. How would eliminating this action, habit, or pattern from your life be your sacrifice of praise before the Lord? How would this reveal your love for the Lord?
If you know the song “Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus,” let these words be your closing declaration. Remember what you have seen of Jesus’ heart in Mark’s Gospel. “Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus” O soul, are you weary and troubled? No light in the darkness you see? There’s light for a look at the Savior, and life more abundant and free! Refrain: Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face, and the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace. His word shall not fail you – He promised; believe Him, and all will be well: then go to a world that is dying, His perfect salvation to tell! Refrain: By Helen Lemmel
Day 3 – Mark 14:27-52 John’s Gospel was the last of the four Gospels that was written, in the last decade of the first century. The other apostles were no longer living, many of whom had died as martyrs for their faith in Jesus Christ. History records that the opposition had tried to put John to death and then sent him into exile on the Greek island of Patmos. John’s Gospel records in detail the events and words spoken by Jesus in the Upper Room. John knew the impact that these actions and words of his Savior had upon him in his own times of persecution and need. I thank the Lord that the Spirit of God inspired John to write down 1.
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Lesson 19 these words for us. In Jesus’ teaching we see His example, His challenge, His promise of the coming Holy Spirit, and His prayer for His followers. While we are studying Mark’s Gospel, I know that you will be blessed by reading what took place in the Upper Room (recorded in John 13 through 17) as Jesus celebrated Passover and what came to be known as the Lord’s Supper. Pray for God’s anointing upon His holy word as you prepare your heart for His message. Read John 13-17 if you can take the time to do this and respond in some way to John’s remembrance of Jesus’ time with His disciples. After studying Mark’s Gospel, express what His example, His challenge, His promise, and His prayer (from John 13 through 17) mean to you:
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Now begin with these observation questions for Mark 14:27-52. What prophecy did Jesus proclaim (from Zechariah 13:7) in Mark 14:27-30?
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What was the specific prophecy that Jesus proclaimed to Peter?
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If you were able to read the Upper Room account from John’s Gospel, you will remember how Jesus used the word abide in John 15. His followers are to abide (remain) in Him. Jesus used the same Greek word in Mark 14:34, translated as wait in the ISV and translated as remain in the NASB. How did Jesus ask Peter, James, and John to “wait” in Mark 14:33-40? What was their response?
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Hebrews 5:8 says that Jesus learned obedience from the things which He suffered. What do you learn about Jesus from His time in the Garden of Gethsemane?
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Who was responsible for Jesus’ arrest according to Mark 14:41-45?
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Look at these different responses to Jesus’ arrest. How did Jesus respond?
What was the response of “one of those standing” with Him?
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How did the disciples respond?
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Many in the early Christian church believed that the “certain young man” of Mark 14:51,52 was the author of The Gospel According to Mark. Why do you think that this was included?
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
4624 skandalizo skandalisthesesthe Mark 14:27
Turn against ISV, to entrap, i.e. trip up (figuratively stumble [transitively] or entice to sin, apostasy or displeasure): (make to) offend; fall away NASB & NIV Distressed, to astonish utterly, affright, greatly (sore) amaze KJV, deeply distressed NIV, very distressed NASB
Mark 4:17
85 ademoneo ademonein Mark 14:33
Troubled, to be in distress (of mind), be full of heaviness, be very heavy KJV
Used three times in the New Testament. Matthew 26:37
4036 perilupos perilupos Mark 14:34 3306 meno meinate Mark 14:34
Deeply grieved, grieved all around, i.e. intensely sad: exceeding (very) sorry (owful) overwhelmed with sorrow NIV Wait ISV, to stay (in a given state, relation, or expectancy): abide, continue, dwell, endure, be present, remain NASB, stand, tarry KJV…
Mark 6:26
1568 ekthambeo ekthambeisthai Mark 14:33
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Mark 6:3 Used four times in the New Testament, only in Mark’s Gospel. Mark 9:15 Mark 16:5,6
John 15:4
Lesson 19 Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
5 Abba Abba Mark 14:36
Abba, of Aramaic origin; father (as a vocative case), meaning that it was used to call out
Used three times in the New Testament. Romans 8:15
3986 peirasmos peirasmón Mark 14:38
Temptation, a putting to proof (by experiment [of good], experience [of evil], solicitation, discipline or provocation); by implication, adversity Flesh, flesh (as stripped of the skin), i.e. (strictly) the meat of an animal (as food), or (by extension) the body (as opposed to the soul [or spirit], or as the symbol of what is external, or as the means of kindred), or (by implication) human nature (with its frailties [physically or morally] and passions), or (specifically) a human being (as such)
1 Corinthians 10:13
4561 sarx sárx Mark 14:38
Hebrews 5:7
3. What Mark recorded in Mark 14:27-50 is also included in at least two other Gospels. Read these Gospel accounts for Mark 14:27-31 and look for information that Mark did not share. a. Matthew 26:31-35 b. Luke 22:31-34 c. John 13:36-38
4. Now look at Mark 14:32-42 as well as what the other two Synoptic Gospels say in their accounts. a. Matthew 26:36-46 b. Luke 22:39-46
5. Jesus’ arrest is told in all four of the Gospels. Read Mark 14:43-50 and then look at the other three Gospels to see what they have included. (A Roman cohort was a group of 600
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Lesson 19 soldiers. A Roman legion numbered between 4,500 and 6,000 soldiers who were considered to be the best in the army.76) a. Matthew 26:47-56 b. Luke 22:47-53 c. John 18:2-12
6. While Jesus was in the Garden of Gethsemane He prayed to His Father about the cup (of suffering) that was before Him. Please read Hebrews 12:1-3 to see the heart of Jesus and what is asked of you, as one of His followers. What was Jesus’ attitude toward His suffering according to Hebrews 12:2?
What is asked of believers in Hebrews 12:3?
Pastor David Larson spoke about Jesus’ prayer in the Garden. Pastor Larson’s interpretation of Jesus’ words is that He was acknowledging the pain and separation from His Father that would soon occur when He would take upon Himself the sin of the world while bearing the wrath of God toward all mankind. This was distressful, troubling, and deeply grieving to Jesus. How could He even imagine what the experience of this separation would be like? Luke shared the physical trauma that Jesus experienced in the Garden in Luke 22:44. In this interpretation, it was in Jesus’ grief that He asked His Father to not allow His suffering to overwhelm Him to the point of death in the Garden rather than on the cross. Luke recorded that angels came to strengthen Him in Luke 22:43, that He might endure His time in the Garden. Read again Hebrews 12:2 from above and meditate on this interpretation. In Mark 14:38 Jesus commanded His disciples to “stay awake and pray” so that they would not fall into temptation. As we finish today’s time in the word, we will reflect on this instruction and what this would mean to you personally. John 17 recorded Jesus’ prayer to His Father before leaving with His disciples from the Upper Room. On the Mount of Olives Jesus asked His disciples to pray for Him as He prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane. If you did not read Jesus’ prayer in John 17, please read the prayer that so clearly reveals His heart and then read what Jesus taught His disciples about prayer in Matthew 6:6-13. Reflect on what the disciples learned about prayer in these two passages and then on their situation and their responses in Mark 14. Continued on the next page.
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Mike Mitchell, “Legion,” Holman Bible Dictionary, Ibid., p. 872. 202
Lesson 19 When we are in a crisis or under stress, we must have clear thinking to make wise decisions. We must consider our theology because what we know about God helps determine how we respond to circumstances. Another critical dimension is that we must not believe lies about ourselves, because how we see ourselves influences the decisions we make. Think about a time when you were under stress for whatever reason. How did you respond? Did you acknowledge truth about God in the circumstance and proclaim your trust in Him? Did you have an accurate “picture” of yourself as you faced the crisis, seeing yourself as God sees you? Do you have someone in your life that helps you see yourself as God sees you? We all need that. This person can help you evaluate the ideas and values that you presently hold. Are these ideas and values valid? Would you be willing to be a part of a group where you put forth your ideas, and allow what has been called cross-fertilization, to test out ideas for a community of accountability? Those who were ridiculed and/or unfairly criticized as a child especially need to develop an accurate understanding of who they are as a child of God. If someone in your life thought that criticism was an effective motivator, you need to address the lies that were spoken to you and replace those lies with the truth. In Mark 14:38 Jesus told Peter, James, and John that the spirit is indeed willing but the flesh is weak. A question to ask yourself is where is your flesh weak? What would God want you to do about that weakness?
Day 4 – Mark 14:53-72 1. Today’s lesson will look at the last section of Mark 14. Before you study ask God to reveal to you the perspective that He would want you to apply to your own life from what is taught at the end of Mark 14. Begin with the observation questions. • Who made up the (Sanhedrin) Council and what did they want according to Mark 14:53-56?
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What was the question Jesus was asked in Mark 14:61 and how did Jesus answer the question He was asked in Mark 14:62?
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What was the high priest’s decision and why according to Mark 14:63,64?
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What were Peter’s words, and what is the message that the Lord wants you to receive from this last portion of Mark 14?
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2.
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How did Peter respond to the rooster crowing a second time?
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Remember that the early church recognized that it was Peter who preached and Mark who recorded his words that made up what came to be known as The Gospel According to Mark. The early church also wrote that after Mark completed his Gospel, he presented these words to Peter and Peter gave his “apostolic” approval. What does this tell you about Peter?
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
3485 naos naón Mark 14:58 2128 eulogetos eulogeetoú Mark 14:61 332 anathematizo anathematizein Mark 14:71
Temple, from a primary naio (to dwell); a fane, shrine, temple; referring to Christ’s body, not the actual temple. Blessed One, adorable; “one worthy to be lauded, praised, well-spoken of. Here it is used as a name for God.”77 Divine curse ISV, to declare of vow under penalty of execration/ (bind under a) curse, bind with an oath
1 Corinthians 6:19 Luke 1:68 Acts 23:14
3. The high priests of Israel served a one-year term and then they served on the (Sanhedrin) Council. In Mark 14:58, John 2:19 was quoted. Read Mark 14:53-65 and then the other Gospels to see their perspective on this event. (You might just look down at Question 4 and record the rest of the passage from Matthew, Luke, and John.) a. Matthew 26:57-68 b. Luke 22:54-55 c. John 18:13,14,19-24
4. Finish your study of Mark 14 by reading Mark 14:66-72 and then the other three Gospels to look for any additional information that they included. a. Matthew 26:69-75 b. Luke 22:56-62 c. John 18:15-18,25-27
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Wuest, Ibid., p. 272. 204
Lesson 19 5. In the John’s Gospel account of Peter’s denial, he mentioned another disciple who was there with Peter. Most biblical scholars believe that this was the apostle John. If (since) that was John, I believe that is why John included his record of Jesus’ encounter with Peter at the Sea of Galilee after Jesus’ resurrection. Some have noticed the number of times Jesus asked Peter the question “Do you love Me?” in John 21:15-17. The John 21 passage has been called the “Re-commissioning of Peter,” and John included this because he knew Peter’s response to his denial of Jesus. Read John 21:12-17 to see what took place when Jesus appeared to His disciples and then Jesus’ questions for Peter. What does this tell you about the heart of Jesus?
Stop and think about your commitment to Jesus Christ. What is the level of your commitment to Jesus? Is there still something in your own flesh that gets in the way of you being thoroughly committed to Jesus? Is there something in your heart that gets in the way of you being committed to Jesus? Is there something in your soul that gets in the way of you being committed to Jesus? Is there something in your mind that gets in the way of you being committed to Jesus? Is there something in your strength that gets in the way of you being committed to Jesus? What about your own personal commitment to the truth? Israel knew that bearing false witness was a sin against God, as it was one of the Ten Commandments. The Hebrew law required that there be two witnesses to verify an event, according to Deuteronomy 17:6. You read of several who told lies in today’s passage. Consider what was revealed about those in opposition to Jesus as well as what was revealed about dear Peter in Mark 14. You could “excuse” the behavior of these people for a number of different reasons, as you think about why each of these individuals lied. Rather, I think that the point of this is to determine in your own spirit whether you value honesty. Have you chosen to live your life exercising this value in obedience to the Lord and His will? As children grow up they “go through a phase” where they will lie to gain the approval of others. Some in fact develop this “habit” and never confess that this pattern for living is a sin. Some will lie in an effort to cover up their problems, while some will lie to “be funny.” Some really think that it is acceptable to lie. What is your attitude toward telling the truth? What commitment will you make concerning this?
Paul wrote to the churches in Galatia about the people listening to “another gospel,” rather than the truth that had been preached to them. In Galatians 1:10 Paul asked “Am I now trying to win the approval of people or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I Continued on the next page. 205
Lesson 19 were still trying to please people, I would not be Christ’s servant.” You might close by singing the beautiful hymn “Come Thou Fount.” You might not be familiar with two of the words in this song. The name Ebenezer was given by the prophet Samuel to the stone that he erected in recognition of God’s help in defeating the Philistines, as recorded in 1 Samuel 7:12. The word fetter is an old English word for a chain or shackle for the feet to prevent escape.78 “Come Thou Fount” Come, Thou Fount of ev’ry blessing, turn my heart to sing Thy grace; streams of mercy, never ceasing, call for songs of loudest praise. Teach me some melodious sonnet sung by flaming tongues above; praise the mount I’m fixed upon it, mount of Thy redeeming love. Here I raise my Ebenezer – hither by Thy help I’m come; and I hope by Thy good pleasure safely to arrive at home. Jesus sought me when a stranger wand’ring from the fold of God; He to rescue me from danger interposed His precious blood. O to grace how great a debtor daily I’m constrained to be! Let Thy goodness like a fetter bind my wand’ring heart to Thee. Prone to wander - Lord, I feel it - prone to leave the God I love; here’s my heart - O take and seal it, seal it for Thy courts above. By Robert Robinson and John Wyeth
Day 5 – Mark 14 Review 1. Today you will review Mark 14, to go back over the chapter to see what you learned about Jesus, those in opposition to Him, and His followers. Open by praying for the leading of the Holy Spirit to guide you into truth as you take the time to read through the chapter. • Look at the sheet entitled “Evidence of Jesus Christ in The Gospel According to Mark.” As you read through Mark 14, select some of the words that Jesus spoke, and record them on the chart. • 2.
Now look at the different ways Jesus was addressed or what He was specifically called in Mark 14 and list those on the chart. What did Jesus do in Mark 14? List some of Jesus’ actions on the chart.
3. What is the evidence in Mark 14 that reveals the heart of Jesus? Review the chapter asking God to help you see Jesus’ heart. Record this information on the “Evidence…” chart. Jot down a key event from Mark 14 that will help you remember the message of this chapter. Before you finish your time today, take the time to record in the margin some of the phrases and/or verses that you have might have memorized from Mark 14. Please take some time to meditate on what you have recorded, and looking back over the chapter again, write down in the last column what this means to you personally. Close in prayer, expressing your heart to the Lord, seeking His truth, His comfort, and His provision for where you are today in your life. Trusting God with your every need, vow to be faithful to Him and His will.
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Barnhart, Ibid., p. 789. 206
Lesson 20
Lesson 20 – Mark 15 Introduction This week you will study Mark 15, nearing the end of Mark’s Gospel. As you approach this lesson, ask God to transform your heart by the renewing of your mind with His precious and holy word. I am trusting the Lord to use your time in the word to build in you the qualities that you have seen modeled in Jesus our Savior. We cannot know what tomorrow holds, but we can trust the Lord to provide everything that we need to choose to live in godliness. When Peter wrote this truth, was he thinking of the time he denied knowing Jesus? Please open by reading Peter’s words in 2 Peter 1:2-8 and be encouraged by the precious and magnificent promises of God.
Day 1 – Mark 15, Comprehensive Chapter Study 1. Today you will begin the observation of Mark 15. Open in prayer asking the Holy Spirit to illuminate the word so that you will see what God has for you in the Gospel’s message. • Read Mark 15 paying attention to the key words that were used. Mark the key words and then make a list of what is being stated about the key word. You can place these lists directly on the Scripture Worksheets in the right-hand margin under the heading of the key word, or place your lists on a separate sheet of paper. Now please list the key words in Mark 15 here.
2. As you read Mark 15, you can also look for contrasts and comparisons that were used by Mark. Write these here in the space provided, and/or mark your Scripture Worksheets in some way to show these contrasts and comparisons. Think about how these help you learn what is being taught. Contrasts (to show differences/opposites)
Comparisons (to show similarities and connections, using the words as or like)
3. Remember one way to see the message of Scripture is to look at how the author communicated truth. In Mark 15 you also find several instructions. Read Mark 15:4c,13b,14d,30,35b,36c and mark these as instructions. When read out of its context, Mark 15:18b would seem to be an exhortation, but it is not because it was a mocking, sarcastic greeting, and not a true exhortation. As I read through Mark 15, I think that the rest of the chapter was written as declarative statements, presenting the events of Jesus’ crucifixion. 207
Lesson 20 4. Now please look for terms of expression that help you understand time, with words like “now, then, later,” etc. and mark these in a consistent way. Another means of understanding language is to examine the way verbs are used in writing. A simple explanation of verbs is that they are words that express action or the state of being, and they relate the words communicated within a framework of time. Verbs communicate that something is happening at the moment, or has happened in the past, or will happen in the future. (The verbs in the preceding sentence are in italics.) Verbs can also announce that an event has already taken place and the results of that event are continuing at the present time. Please take the time to read Mark 15 looking for the different verb tenses that were used, noting in the left hand margin references to the future, the present, or the past. This can add another dimension to your study, not because you will be studying verbs, but this will help you see what God has done in the past, what He is doing in your life today, as well as show you what the future holds. 5. As you read through Mark 15, mark words that express conclusion or show results or purpose with words like “for,” “for this reason,” “so that,” and “because.” Words that express conclusion are important to note because they show why the author wrote what he wrote and help you see the promises or consequences that will come. 6. As you close, please read Isaiah 52:13-15 and Isaiah 53 to see this Messianic prophecy that had been given to Israel through the prophet Isaiah. Ask God to clarify for you the truths about Jesus in this Old Testament passage. How does your heart, mind, soul, and strength respond to this prophecy?
Quiet yourself before the Lord and close by presenting your body as a living sacrifice to God as your own private act of worship.
Day 2 – Mark 15:1-15 1. Remember in Mark 11 when Jesus entered the city of Jerusalem on a donkey? Zechariah 9:9 prophesied that Jerusalem would rejoice saying, “Behold your king is coming to you; He is just and endowed with salvation, humble and mounted on a donkey, even on a colt, the foal of a donkey.” Today’s passage used the phrase “king of the Jews,” and it reminded me of Jesus’ “triumphal” entry into town just a few days earlier. Open in prayer that you might worship your King as you spend time in the word today. Begin with these observation questions based on today’s passage. • When the Sanhedrin and other leaders met in the morning what did they decide to do?
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Lesson 20
2.
•
Pontius Pilate was the Roman governor who was also known as the procurator or prefect of Judea who ruled in Israel at the time of Christ. In 1961 a stone was excavated in the town of Caesarea Maritima with Latin inscriptions including Pilate’s name and title. Prior to this discovery, Bible critics claimed that there was not a ruler by the name of Pilate and these critics tried to discredit the Gospel accounts that presented his role. Since the discovery of the inscribed stone, it has been determined that Herod built the “palace” Pilate lived in at the edge of the beautiful Mediterranean Sea. Read an earlier reference to Pilate in Luke 13:1-5 to see what was known about Pilate and how Jesus used this historical event to teach His followers about suffering.
•
What does Mark 15:1-15 say about Pilate?
•
Who was Barabbas according to Mark 15:7-11? His name is a compound of two Hebrew (Aramaic) words. The word for son is bar, and the word for fathers is abbas, hence the literal meaning of his name was the son of fathers. (Imagine Barabbas’ response to Jesus.)
•
What do we learn about the Jewish high priests and their leadership in Mark 15:10,11?
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
4714 stasis stásei Mark 15:7
Insurrection, a standing (properly, the act), i.e. (by analogy) position (existence); by implication, a popular uprising; figuratively, controversy King, (through the notion of a foundation of power); a sovereign (abstractly, relatively, or figuratively) Crucify, to impale on the cross; figuratively, to extinguish (subdue) passion or selfishness
Acts 19:40
935 basileus basiléa Mark 15:12 4717 stauroo staúrooson Mark 15:13
1 Timothy 1:17 Galatians 5:24
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Lesson 20 3. The record in Mark 15:1-5 appears in all of the Gospels. Read these other accounts and add any additional information that you find. a. Matthew 27:1,2,11-14 b. Luke 23:1-5 c. John 18:28-38
4. Now continue with Mark 15:6-15 and the next part of Jesus’ “trial.” What was added in the other Gospels that revealed the truths of this time? (Note: Some leaders in the early Christian church said that Barabbas was known as Jesus Barabbas. In understanding who Barabbas was, please read Matthew 27:16,17 to see how Pilate’s question would have taken on a unique perspective for his audience if Barabbas’ full name was Jesus Bareabbas.) a. Matthew 27:15-26 b. Luke 23:13-25 c. John 18:39-40
5. What happened to the crowd that welcomed Jesus into Jerusalem a few days earlier? Look back at the impact that the high priests had upon the crowd’s thinking and their decision making processes. Have you ever been caught up in a situation where you set aside logic, reason, and God’s standard and were swayed by someone to do or say the wrong thing? As God’s children, we must be very careful with whom we align ourselves. It was God’s will that Jesus would die for the sins of mankind. We see in today’s passage how sinful humanity contributed to Jesus’ suffering. The truth is that it was my sin that nailed Jesus to the cross, as much as anyone who was physically present in Jerusalem during this time of the festival of Passover. Jesus had just told His followers in Mark 13 that they were to watch and pray and not be deceived. New Testament teaching shared with the early church that their leaders were to be above reproach and model faithfulness to God’s standard. Pastors are to guide their church. Are you open to this guidance?
Pray that you might be careful and ready to seek God’s wisdom and discernment concerning every decision you will be facing in your future remembering the importance of the spiritual discipline of guidance. Continued on the next page. 210
Lesson 20 Please close by praying that God would help your church leaders to be wise and sensitive to God’s leading. Pray that you might be discerning and careful as you seek godly guidance. I remember singing the song “Anywhere with Jesus” as a child. You might sing this song, or read the words as you mediate on Jesus’ sacrifice and the cost of being His disciple. As He sacrificed Himself for His followers, do you daily offer yourself as a living sacrifice to what is holy and acceptable to Him, no matter what it costs? “Anywhere with Jesus” Anywhere with Jesus I can safely go, anywhere He leads me in this world below; anywhere without Him dearest joys would fade, anywhere with Jesus I am not afraid. Refrain: Anywhere! Anywhere! Fear I cannot know; anywhere with Jesus I can safely go. Anywhere with Jesus I am not alone, other friends may fail me – He is still my own; tho His hand may lead me over dreary ways, anywhere with Jesus is a house of praise. Refrain: By Jessie B. Pounds and Daniel B. Towner
Days 3 and 4 – Mark 15:16-47 1. Most Christians are very familiar with the story of Jesus’ suffering and crucifixion. Ask the Lord God to help you be more sensitive to what Jesus did on your behalf. Ask God to help you approach this passage with a grateful heart. Jesus quoted several verses in Psalm 22 in today’s passage, and His followers would eventually recognize this Psalm to contain Messianic prophecy. Open by reading Psalm 22 and keep this in mind while studying Mark 15. Begin with these observation questions. • Earlier Jesus told His disciples that He would be turned over to the Gentiles and He prophesied about what was going to happen to Him. How did Mark describe the soldiers’ treatment of Jesus and what was their attitude toward Him?
•
What did Mark say about the man that helped Jesus carry His cross? (Mark mentioned the city of Cyrene in Mark 15:21 which was at the top of the African continent, across the Mediterranean Sea from Greece.)
•
According to Mark’s account of the crucifixion, who witnessed Jesus’ suffering and what was their response? (Golgotha is the Hebrew word for the place of crucifixion and Calvary is the word in Latin, from calvaria that means skull and calvas that means bare or bald.) The witnesses: Their response:
More space on the next page. 211
Lesson 20 The witnesses:
•
2.
Their response:
What did you learn about Joseph of Arimathea at the end of Mark 15?
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in this passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
1115 golgotha golgothan Mark 15:22 4669 smurnizo esmurnismenon Mark 15:23 1459 egkataleipo egkatelipes Mark 15:34
Golgotha, the skull, a knoll near Jerusalem. (A Hebrew word.)
Matthew 27:33
Mixed with myrrh, to tincture with myrrh, i.e. embitter (as a narcotic): mingle with myrrh Forsaken, to leave behind in some place, i.e. (in a good place) let remain over, or (in a bad one) to desert: leave
Hapax legomen. Hebrews 13:5
3. Look at the first verses in Mark 15:16-20 and then read what Matthew and John say about this same event. a. Matthew 27:27-31 b. John 19:2,3
4. Read John 19:4-16 to see information that Mark did not record. Who was involved and what happened according to John’s writing?
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Lesson 20 5. Now read Mark 15:21-47 and the verses in each of the other Gospels to see what was said about Jesus. Circle in red the words that Jesus spoke from the cross. Think about what Jesus’ words tell you about Himself and His Father. Matthew 27:32-56
Luke 23:26-49
John 19:17-30, 38-42
6. We can get so caught up in the “who said what” and “what happened” that we miss the significance of what took place that day when Jesus went to the “Place of the Skull.” We will end with two different focuses, first what Jesus did for you, and then we will reflect on the truths of what it means to be Christ’s follower today. When Paul wrote to the church in Rome, he summarized Jesus’ sacrifice using three terms that were well known to his first century audience. First, the word justified that was used in the Roman judicial system. Secondly, redemption, a word from the (profitable and prolific) Roman slave trade. And lastly, atonement, a word that anyone from any religious order of that day would have comprehended. Continued on the next page. 213
Lesson 20 In Romans 3:23-26 Paul said that through Jesus we are justified. This means that we have been declared as righteous by the Judge who alone has the authority to make that decision. We have been redeemed as any slave who was bought with a price in the slave market. We were enslaved to sin, and now our Savior has set us free. As Christians we have been covered by Christ’s atonement, the wrath-removing sacrifice that Jesus fulfilled when for the joy set before Him, He endured the cross. Please read Romans 3:21-26 and meditate on these very important truths of the gospel. Reflect on what Jesus Christ willingly accomplished for you. Jesus Christ paid the price for you to be reconciled with God. Jesus paid the price so that God would declare you righteous. It was through the offering of Christ’s blood that sin has been “covered” by His righteousness. After you looked at Jesus’ crucifixion this week, what does this mean to you today?
In Jesus’ obedience to go to the cross, He suffered in every dimension of His being. To take upon Himself the sin of the world and to bear God’s wrath for mankind’s sin was exceedingly painful and far beyond our ability to comprehend. Jesus had been in perfect communion with His Father throughout His early ministry, and as He hung on the cross, He was alone. Jesus was forsaken by His holy and just Father as He hung on the cross. This in itself is amazing. Jesus was willing to leave His place in heaven and come to earth to suffer so that we might be whole and complete, and have peace. Please end by reading the promise made to believers in Hebrews 13:5,6 and then look at the Old Testament Scriptures that were quoted for this. a. Hebrews 13:5,6
b. Deuteronomy 31:6,8
c. Psalm 118:6 I know you have read Isaiah 53 before, but please read verses 6-12 to see Isaiah’s commentary on what Jesus did on your behalf. What is your response to these verses?
Continued on the next page.
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Lesson 20 The hymn “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” came to my mind as I meditated on Jesus’ suffering. Please close by thinking about these words and what they mean to you. “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” When I survey the wondrous cross on which the Prince of glory died, my richest gain I count but loss, and pour contempt on all my pride. Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast, save in the death of Christ my God; all the vain things that charm me most, I sacrifice them to his blood. See, from his head, his hands, his feet, sorrow and love flow mingled down: did e’er such love and sorrow meet, or thorns compose so rich a crown? Were the whole realm of nature mine, that were an off’ring far too small; love so amazing, so divine, demands my soul, my life, my all. By Isaac Watts
Day 5 – Mark 15 Review 1. Oh, my, we have just completed the study of Mark 15. Please take the time to review today so that you can meditate again on the events surrounding Jesus’ life and His death. Remember the statement that was made earlier about the disciples when it was said that their hearts were hardened? Stop and ask the Holy Spirit to comfort you and counsel you so that you might see the “areas” of your heart that might be “hard” toward the Lord. You might be struggling with something that happened or something that did not happen and because of this you are stuck in the stage of grief that manifests itself in anger. Please ask the Holy Spirit to soften your heart toward the Lord. Ask that you might see what God wants you to see in Mark 15 about His sovereignty and His love and mercy. • Look at the sheet in the Appendix entitled “Evidence of Jesus Christ in The Gospel According to Mark.” As you read through Mark 15, select some of the words that Jesus spoke, and record them on the chart. • 2.
Now look at the different ways Jesus was addressed or what He was specifically called in Mark 15 and list those on the chart. Record what Jesus did in Mark 15 listing Jesus’ actions on the chart.
3. What is the evidence in Mark 15 that reveals the heart of Jesus? Review the chapter asking God to help you see Jesus’ heart. Record this information on the “Evidence…” chart. Stop and pray to the Lord, thanking Him for the gift of your salvation. Consider the cost of your redemption. Thank the Lord that His Son was obedient to the point of death, even death on a humiliating Roman cross. Describe in your own words the key event from Mark 15 that will help you remember the message of this chapter.
Please take some time to meditate on what you have recorded, and looking back over the chapter again, write down in the last column what this means to you personally. Continued on the next page. 215
Lesson 20 Before you finish your time today, take the time to record some of the phrases and/or verses that you have might have memorized from this week’s lesson or from Mark 15.
What spiritual disciplines did Jesus model for you in Mark 15?
Paul wrote an epistle to the churches in Galatia concerning the gospel of salvation. Paul wrote in Galatians 2:19b-21, “I have been crucified with Christ. I no longer live, but Christ lives in me, and the life that I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. I do not set aside the grace of God. For if righteousness comes through the Law, then Christ died for nothing.” What does this say to you?
“Man of Sorrows!” “Man of Sorrows!” what a name for the Son of God, who came ruined sinners to reclaim! Hallelujah, what a Savior! Bearing shame and scoffing rude, in my place condemned he stood; sealed my pardon with his blood: Hallelujah, what a Savior! Guilty, vile and helpless we, spotless Lamb of God was he; full atonement! Can it be? Hallelujah, what a Savior! Lifted up was he to die, “It is finished” was his cry; now in heav’n exalted high: Hallelujah, what a Savior! When he comes, our glorious King, all his ransomed home to bring, then a-new this song we’ll sing: Hallelujah, what a Savior! By Philip P. Bliss
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Lesson 21
Lesson 21 – Mark 16 Introduction This lesson looks at the very last chapter of Mark’s Gospel. Week after week you have observed Mark’s words inspired by the Holy Spirit. You have examined some of the key words Mark used for his Gospel, and looked at what the other Gospels wrote about the same events, to gain the perspective of the three human authors that were also inspired by the Holy Spirit at a different point in time as they addressed different audiences. Throughout this study you have looked at the text of Scripture to see how God would want you to apply His truths to your own circumstances of life, and today you will begin the last chapter. I thank God for His faithfulness. I thank God for His provision of time and energy to study The Gospel According to Mark this past year. Before you begin, think about why you are thankful as you approach the last chapter of Mark’s Gospel.
Day 1 – Mark 16, Comprehensive Chapter Study 1. Open in prayer asking for the Holy Spirit to illuminate your mind and heart so that you will see what God has for you in Mark 16. • Read Mark 16 paying attention to the key words that were used. Mark the key words and then make a list of what is being stated about the key word. You can place these lists directly on the Scripture Worksheets in the right-hand margin under the heading of the key word, or place your lists on a separate sheet of paper. Now please list the key words in Mark 16 here.
2. As you read Mark 16, you can also look for contrasts and comparisons that were used by Mark. Write these here in the space provided, and/or mark your Scripture Worksheets in some way to show these contrasts and comparisons. Think about how these help you learn what is being taught. Contrasts (to show differences/opposites)
Comparisons (to show similarities and connections, using the words as or like)
3. Remember one way to see the message of Scripture is to look at how the author communicated truth. In Mark 16 you also find some instructions. Read Mark 16:6b,f,7a,15b and mark these as instructions. As I read through Mark 16, I read Mark 16:6d,16b as exhortations, personal messages to those who heard the angel’s words and Mark’s testimony of the church. Mark these exhortations in some way. Look at Jesus’ warning in Mark 16:16b and mark this. 217
Lesson 21 Jesus spoke an admonishment to His disciples in Mark 16:14b. Read this verse to see Jesus’ rebuke. I think that the rest of Mark 16 was written as declarative statements, to tell of the events of Jesus’ life and events that took place in the early church. 4. Now please look for terms of expression that help you understand time, with words like “now, then, later,” etc. and mark these in a consistent way. Another means of understanding language is to examine the way verbs are used in writing. A simple explanation of verbs is that they are words that express action or the state of being, and they relate the words communicated within a framework of time. Verbs communicate that something is happening at the moment, or has happened in the past, or will happen in the future. (The verbs in the preceding sentence are in italics.) Verbs can also announce that an event has already taken place and the results of that event are continuing at the present time. Please take the time to read Mark 16 looking for the different verb tenses that were used, noting in the left hand margin references to the future, the present, or the past. This can add another dimension to your study, not because you will be studying verbs, but this will help you see what God has done in the past, what He is doing in your life today, as well as show you what the future holds. 5. As you read through Mark 16, mark words that express conclusion or show results or purpose with words like “for,” “for this reason,” “so that,” and “because.” Words that express conclusion are important to note because they show why the author wrote what he wrote and help you see the promises or consequences that will come. 6.
What an amazing book we have studied these past months. Would you agree? Throughout this study you were asked to consider the spiritual disciplines of the faith, (see page 6). Over the centuries the church has decided that these disciplines will help Christians grow in their faith. Have you decided that there is a spiritual discipline that you need to develop into a pattern for your life? Close in prayer asking the Holy Spirit to help you be disciplined in this way so that you might continue to grow in maturity. If you know the song “And Can It Be?” you might close by singing these words as your act of worship before the Lord. What an incredible blessing that Christ died for our sins, that we might be redeemed and set free from the slavery of sin. “And Can It Be?” And can it be that I should gain an int’rest in the Savior’s blood? Died He for me, who caused His pain? For me, who Him to death pursued? Amazing love! How can it be that Thou, my God, shouldst die for me? Refrain: Amazing love! How can it be that Thou, my God, shouldst die for me! He left His Father’s throne above, so free, so infinite His grace! Emptied Himself of all but love, and bled for Adam’s helpless race! ‘Tis mercy all immense and free, for O my God, it found out me. Refrain: Long my imprisoned spirit lay fast bound in sin and nature’s night. Thine eye diffused a quick’ning ray; I woke – the dungeon flamed with light! My chains fell off, my heart was free, I rose, went forth, and followed Thee. Refrain: By Charles Wesley and Refrain by Thomas Campbell
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Lesson 21
Days 2 and 3 – Mark 16:1-20 1. In the next two days you will be studying Mark 16. Begin in prayer seeking God’s wisdom and direction that you might gain from His holy word what He would have you take away. Then begin with these observation questions. • Who went to the tomb, when did this take place, and why according to Mark 16:1,2?
•
What was the personal message delivered to the women by the young man dressed in white and what were they to say to the disciples? What does this event tell you about the Lord?
•
How did the women respond to the message they received?
•
What do you learn about Mary Magdalene and the disciples in Mark 16:9-11? a. Mary Magdalene b. The disciples
•
What does Mark 16:12,13 say about Jesus’ disciples?
•
According to Mark 16:14,15 how did Jesus admonish His disciples and what did He tell them to do?
•
What did Jesus say about those who believe in Him in Mark 16:16-18?
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Lesson 21 •
2.
What was said about Jesus in Mark 16:19,20 and what was said about His disciples? a. Jesus b. The disciples
Please examine these word studies for the key words used in today’s passage.
Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
218 aleipho aleiphosin Mark 16:1 1100 glossa glossais Mark 16:17
Anoint, to oil with perfume. To rub, to cover over, different from anointing for a sacred or religious purpose.79 Tongues, a language (specifically one naturally unacquired)... After the Day of Pentecost, the church saw the Holy Spirit enabling individuals to speak a foreign language that they had not known.80
John 12:3 Acts 2:4
3. Now look at the other Gospel accounts of Mark 16:1-8 to see what they have included. Record any information that Mark did not record. a. Matthew 28:1-8 b. Luke 23:56-24:9 c. John 20:1-10
A Hermeneutics Commentary on Textual Criticism In Lesson 14 on pages 143 and 144 you looked at the dimension of hermeneutics in regard to Jesus’ teaching on fasting. Please look back at this teaching before you continue, as the ending of Mark 16 presents the Bible student with an important interpretation challenge. The oldest manuscripts are considered to be the most valuable when making decisions about translating the Bible. The oldest manuscripts (the Codex Sinaiticus and Vaticanus manuscripts, from around 300 AD) do not include Mark 16:9-20. These manuscripts end Mark’s Gospel with Mark 16:8. A number of later manuscripts included Mark 16:9-20. Some manuscripts have a completely different wording for Mark 16:8, as follows: “They reported to those who were with Peter everything they had been commanded. After this, Jesus sent out through them, from east to west, the sacred and indestructible message of eternal salvation. Amen.” Continued on the page.
79
Zodhiates, Ibid., p. 884. Ibid., p. 898. 220 80
Lesson 21 In 420 AD two leaders in the early church (Eusebius and Jerome) said that most of the manuscripts ended with verse 8. The writings of these men would be considered to be important “ancient witnesses.” The thought among many biblical scholars is that someone added the longer ending later based on what was happening as disciples spread the message of the gospel. Mark 16:8 in the original Greek ends with the word “for” (the Greek word gar) which would never have been used at the end of a phrase in Greek. It would seem that the verse continued, although that is not in the text. It is also puzzling why the last phrase used in Mark 16:8 would be the ending of Mark’s Gospel since it focuses on the disciples being in fear. Some biblical scholars have taken a serious look at the ending of Mark’s Gospel and believe that it did not end with Mark 16:8, but they believe that the last page of the manuscript was torn off from the original manuscript and years later leaders in the church added verses 9-20. This passage provides textual critics over the centuries with much to ponder.81
5. Now look at what is in Mark 16:9-11 and add what Matthew and John said in their Gospels. a. Matthew 28:9,10 b. John 20:11-18
6. Portions of Mark 16:9-13 are also in Luke’s Gospel. Read Luke 24:10-49 to see Luke’s perspective.
7. Each of the Gospels as well as the book of Acts record portions of Jesus’ teaching and His actions after His resurrection. Please look at what these other Scriptures included. a. Matthew 28:16-20 b. Luke 24:50-53
81
Melick, Ibid. 221
Lesson 21 c. John 20:19-23
d. Acts 1:1-8
8. Look at Luke’s account in Acts 1:9-11 about Jesus’ ascension and think about what the disciples saw. What was the message God gave the disciples that day?
9. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is foundational to our faith. Many have tried to disprove Jesus’ resurrection, and some by saying that Jesus had not died. One theory about Jesus’ death was in Matthew 28:11-15. What was this theory?
The Roman law said that if a Roman soldier fell asleep while they were on their guard they would be put to death. Another idea that circulated was called the “swoon” theory, claiming that Jesus was only unconscious; He was not dead. What was the evidence given in the Gospels that proved that Jesus was dead?
One theory that circulated claimed that Jesus was not resurrected but those who claimed to have seen Him were hallucinating. What was the evidence of Jesus’ resurrection that you have seen in the Gospels?
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Lesson 21 Look at 1 Corinthians 15:1-8 and record the evidence of Jesus’ resurrection given here by the apostle Paul.
How can you end your time in the word today in an act of worship? How can you express your adoration and praise to God and to your Savior Jesus Christ? If you are an outdoors person, you might go outside and meditate before the Lord. You might sing, you could write a poem, you might fall to your knees in praise, or you might write a love letter to your Savior expressing your gratitude. Be creative! Ask God to help you worship in spirit and in truth.
Day 4 – Mark 16 Review 1. This is your last chapter review! You have almost finished with your study of Mark’s Gospel. Open in prayer asking the Lord to give you His insight and wisdom as you approach the review of Mark 16. • Look at the sheet in the Appendix entitled “Evidence of Jesus Christ in The Gospel According to Mark.” As you read through Mark 16, select some of the words that Jesus spoke and record them on the chart. • 2.
Now look at the different ways Jesus was addressed or what He was specifically called in Mark 16 and list those on the chart. Look at what Jesus did in Mark 16 and list Jesus’ actions on the chart.
3. What is the evidence in Mark 16 that reveals the heart of Jesus? Review the chapter asking God to help you see Jesus’ heart. Record this information on the “Evidence…” chart. Jot down a key event from Mark 16 that will help you remember the message of this chapter. Please take some time to meditate on what you have recorded, and looking back over the chapter again, write down in the last column what this means to you personally. Throughout the study of Mark you have been challenged to consider and adopt for yourself the spiritual disciplines that Jesus and His followers modeled. Look at this list again and ask the Lord what He would have you do to grow stronger in your faith. 1. Meditation 6. Fasting 11. Simplicity 2. Prayer 7. Service 12. Worship 3. Scripture memorization 8. Guidance 13. Confession 4. Bible study 9. Submission 14. The ministry of 5. Solitude 10. Celebration discipleship/mentoring I share the words of the song “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” with you if you would like to close by acknowledging God’s character in this way. Continued on the next page. 223
Lesson 21 “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father! There is no shadow of turning with Thee; Thou changest not - Thy compassions, they fail not; as Thou hast been Thou forever wilt be. Chorus: Great is Thy faithfulness! Great is Thy faithfulness! Morning by morning new mercies I see; all I have needed Thy hand has provided – Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord unto me! Summer and winter and springtime and harvest, sun, moon, and stars in their courses above, join with all nature in manifold witness to Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love. Chorus: Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth, Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide, strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow – blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside! Chorus: By Thomas O. Chisholm and William M. Runyan
Days 5 – The Messiah in Old Testament Prophecy 1. The first part of the review of Mark’s Gospel will be to look at the Old Testament prophecies that were fulfilled in Mark’s Gospel. If you were to explain your faith in Christ, it adds great validity to be able to say the number of times that Jesus was the fulfillment of Old Testament Scripture. Join with me in praying that you will be truly blessed as you look into the Scriptures to see the Old Testament prophecy and their New Testament fulfillment. As you do this you might underline or draw a box around the Old Testament verse in your Bible with a gold or yellow pencil to symbolize a sign of a prophesy pointing to Christ. Do not allow these verses to be just a “list” of Scriptures. Let these truths minister to your heart. Old Testament Prophecy:
New Testament Fulfillment:
Malachi 3:1
Mark 1:1-8
Psalm 2:7,8
Mark 1:11
Genesis 49:10
Mark 10:48, 11:10 12:36
Zechariah 9:9
Mark 11:7-10
Psalm 118:22
Mark 12:10,11
Psalm 41:9
Mark 14:10
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The prophecy about Jesus:
Lesson 21 Old Testament Prophecy:
New Testament Fulfillment:
Zechariah 11:12,13
Mark 14:11
Zechariah 13:7
Mark 14:27
Psalm 22:6-8
Mark 14:49,65
Psalm 88:8
Mark 14:50
Psalm 27:12
Mark 14:57
Isaiah 50:6
Mark 14:65
Isaiah 53:7
Mark 15:5
Psalm 22:6-8
Mark 15:19,32
Psalm 69:21
Mark 15:23
Psalm 22:18
Mark 15:24
Isaiah 53:12
Mark 15:27,28
Psalm 22:6-8
Mark 15:32
The prophecy about Jesus:
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Lesson 21 Old Testament Prophecy:
New Testament Fulfillment:
Isaiah 53:9
Mark 15:43-46
Psalm 16:10
Mark 16:6
Psalm 68:18
Mark 16:19
2.
The prophecy about Jesus:
How has your spirit responded to these Scriptures?
Close in a prayer of worship as your Lord God directs you.
Mark 16:5 As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed.
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Lesson 22 – The Gospel According to Mark Review Introduction You have nearly completed this inductive study of Mark’s Gospel. As you approached each chapter you followed the same path. First you observed each paragraph. You considered some of the original Greek words used to write Mark’s account, and looked at the other Gospels to see what they recorded about the same event that Mark included and used this information to interpret the text. In the midst of events that took place in the traditions of an ancient culture, you were asked to see principles that still have relevance for you today. At the end of each section, you were asked to apply the truths that the Holy Spirit had revealed to you in your own life. Praise the Lord that His precious word is living and active and makes a difference in where you are in your life today.
Day 1 – Mark 1 through Mark 4 1. In this week you are being asked to read all of Mark’s Gospel. On The first day you will review four chapters, and on each day that follows the review will cover three chapters. As you read you are being asked to look for several things focusing on the responses that people had to Jesus. Look at the groups of people who supported Jesus and at those who took a stand in opposition to Him. Use the charts in the Appendix entitled “People’s Responses to Jesus Christ in The Gospel According to Mark” for this review. As you go through Mark’s Gospel, think about the spiritual disciplines we have studied. What do you see modeled in Mark’s Gospel? Recognizing another person practicing a spiritual discipline is good, however it is far better to determine to make a decision that you yourself will make the spiritual discipline a pattern for your life. At the end of every day this week you will be asked to consider your own commitment to the spiritual disciplines. We are to be open to the word so that it truly edifies, convicts, strengthens, and enlightens us. Please ask the Holy Spirit to help you this week as you review Mark’s Gospel. Ask that the word would be your strength, your comfort, and your delight. Ask the Lord that as you review you would see what He longs for you to see. Ask the Lord to help you hear what He longs for you to hear. 2. Here is the list of spiritual disciplines that we have studied throughout the study of Mark’s Gospel. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Meditation Prayer Scripture memorization Bible study Solitude
6. Fasting 7. Service 8. Guidance 9. Submission 10. Celebration
11. Simplicity 12. Worship 13. Confession 14. The ministry of discipleship/mentoring
What spiritual discipline could you practice that would help you be conformed to the image of Jesus your Savior?
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Lesson 22 Some make a commitment to the Lord and in their commitment be faithful and obedient. Some need a friend to help them be accountable to their commitment. What do you need to do to be faithful with incorporating the spiritual disciplines into your life?
Day 2 – Mark 5 through Mark 7 1. Today you will read the next three chapters of Mark’s Gospel. Each day you will be looking at the variety of responses that people had. Use the “Response” chart to help you record the information. Expect your time in the word to be very valuable. After studying the entire Gospel, you will see events within the context of the entire book as well as within the perspective of what you were able to learn from your look at the other three Gospels. Bow before the Lord seeking His encouragement as you read and allow this time to be a precious review of Mark 5 through Mark 7. 2. As you reviewed today’s chapters, what spiritual disciplines did you see people model that drew them to Jesus?
Think back to a time in your life when you might not have been as close to the Lord as you are now. What brought you back to communion with Him? Thank the Lord you have grown in your faith and are growing. How would the Lord want you to close your time today? Seek His wisdom and then end as He would lead you. Since there were several people with a strong faith in the chapters you read today, I thought of the song, “Faith is the Victory.” Oh, that my faith would continue to be strong, and that I would grow moment by moment. “Faith Is the Victory” His banner over us is love, our sword the Word of God; we tread the road the saints above with shouts of triumph trod. By faith they like a whirl-wind’s breath swept on o’er ev’ry field; the faith by which they conquered death is still our shining shield. Refrain: Faith is the victory! Faith is the victory! Oh, glorious victory that overcomes the world. To him that overcomes the foe, white raiment shall be giv’n; before the angels he shall know His name confessed in heav’n. Then onward from the hills of light, our hearts with love a-flame, we’ll vanquish all the hosts of night, in Jesus’ conquering name. Refrain: By John H. Yates and Ira S. Sankey
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Day 3 – Mark 8 through Mark 10 1. Today you will be reviewing the next three chapters. As you read, allow the Lord to minister to your spirit through the words that Mark recorded. Are you being blessed by spending this time going through the book of Mark? I have prayed that this would be a blessing for you. I was so blessed when I reviewed Mark’s Gospel chapter by chapter. Ask God for His precious word to bless you as you spend time with Him today. 2. You have read about Jesus continuing to teach and minister to people as He shepherded those who were willing to turn to Him. What a blessing for those who were ready to receive the kingdom. What did today’s chapters teach you about the spiritual disciplines? Who did you see modeling which of the spiritual disciplines?
Close in a time of worship before you go from your place of communion with the Lord. You might begin by praising Him for His goodness, His faithfulness, and His gift of salvation.
Day 4 – Mark 11 through Mark 13 1. Six more chapters to go! Continue recording your own responses on the review sheet. Ask the Lord for His heart toward His holy word today. As you read about Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem try to imagine that you are there as one of those who were supporting Him. As you continue and see Jesus confronting people, think about His heart, and His response to those who were opposed to Him. 2. When Jesus was asked about the greatest commandment, He quoted from the Hebrew Shema. Jesus reminded the scribe who questioned Him that the greatest commandment is to love the Lord with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. How can you demonstrate that you sincerely love the Lord?
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Lesson 22 I love the hymn, “Holy, Holy, Holy.” If you know the melody you might close by singing these words, even if some of the lyrics are “Old English” join with the message of this classic song of worship as you close your time today. “Holy, Holy, Holy” Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty! Early in the morning our song shall rise to Thee. Holy, Holy, Holy! Merciful and mighty! God in Three Persons, blessed Trinity! Holy, Holy, Holy! All the saints adore Thee, casting down their golden crowns around the glassy sea; cherubim and seraphim falling down before Thee, which wert and art, and evermore shalt be. Holy, Holy, Holy! Tho’ the darkness hide Thee, though the eye of sinful man Thy glory may not see; only Thou art holy - there is none beside Thee perfect in pow’r, in love and purity. Reginald Heber and John B. Dykes
Day 5 – Mark 14 through Mark 16 1. This is the last day of the review of Mark. Continue to complete the responses of people on the chart that has been provided. I pray that you will be so blessed by looking again at the life and sacrifice of your Savior Jesus Christ as you read and review today. Many have noticed that in Mark’s account of Jesus’ crucifixion, Mark seemed somewhat “detached” emotionally. As you read you might remember what the other Gospels taught. Ask God to open your heart as well as your mind while you are studying today. 2. Most likely for you, and certainly for me, Mark’s Gospel will always be read with a sense of awe and reverence. When you spend time pouring yourself into God’s word, it never “returns void.” In Isaiah 55:11 God said to His people that His word which goes out of His mouth will not return to Him empty, without accomplishing what He desires and without succeeding in the matter for which He sent it. Hallelujah, I am rejoicing that we have finished, although I always have a struggle with being at the end of a book I have poured myself into. I thank God for His faithfulness. When I took a class in seminary that focused on the New Testament Gospels, I felt the Lord leading me to study Mark’s Gospel. I have been so blessed by looking closely at the life of Jesus. His words and deeds have filled my thinking for eleven months! I have seen His heart and that has blessed my feeble heart. Close your time today in prayer and perhaps with a look at the song “Lead Me to Calvary.” I do not want to ever forget what Jesus did for me on the cross. “Lead Me to Calvary” King of my life, I crown Thee now, Thine shall the glory be; lest I forget Thy thorn crowned brow, lead me to Calvary. Refrain: Lest I forget Gethsemane; lest I forget Thine agony; lest I forget Thy love for me, lead me to Calvary. Show me the tomb where Thou wast laid, tenderly mourned and wept; angels in robes of light arrayed, guarded Thee whilst Thou slept. Refrain: Let me like Mary, through the gloom, come with a gift to Thee; show to me now the empty tomb, lead me to Calvary. Refrain: May I be willing, Lord, to bear daily my cross for Thee; even Thy cup of grief to share, Thou hast borne all for me. Refrain: By Jennie Evelyn Hussey and William J. Kirkpatrick 230
Appendix
The Loaves and Fishes Blackie Family Worship, Engraving
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Mark Chapter 1
Scripture Worksheets Chapter 1 1
This is the beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of
God. 2As it is written in the prophet Isaiah, “See! I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way. 3
He is a voice calling out in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way for the Lord! Make his paths straight!’” 4
John was baptizing in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism
of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. 5People from the whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem were flocking to him, being baptized by him while they confessed their sins. 6
Now John was dressed in camel's hair with a leather belt around
his waist. He ate locusts and wild honey. 7He kept proclaiming, “The one who is coming after me is stronger than I am, and I am not worthy to bend down and untie his sandal straps. 8I baptized you with water, but it is he who will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” 9
In those days Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was
baptized by John in the Jordan. 10Just as he was coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens split open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. 11Then a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love. I am pleased with you!” International Standard Version® - 1.3
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At once the Spirit drove him into the wilderness. 13He was in
the wilderness for forty days being tempted by Satan. He was with the wild animals, and the angels were ministering to him. 14
Now after John had been arrested, Jesus went to Galilee and
proclaimed the gospel about the kingdom of God. 15He said, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is near! Repent, and keep believing in the gospel!” 16
While Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw
Simon and his brother Andrew. They were throwing a net into the sea because they were fishermen. 17Jesus said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishermen of people!” 18So immediately they left their nets and followed him. 19Going on a little farther he saw James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John. They were in a boat repairing their nets. 20He immediately called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men and followed him. 21
Then they went to Capernaum. As soon as it was the Sabbath,
Jesus went into the synagogue and began to teach. 22The people were utterly amazed at his teaching, for he was teaching them like one with authority and not like their scribes. 23Suddenly there was a man in their synagogue who had an unclean spirit. He screamed, 24
“What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come
to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!”22
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Mark Chapter 1
But Jesus rebuked him, saying, “Be quiet, and come out of
him!” 26At this, the unclean spirit shook the man, cried out with a loud voice, and came out of him. 27
All the people were so stunned that they kept saying to each
other, “What is this? A new teaching with authority! He tells even the unclean spirits what to do, and they obey him!” 28At once his fame began to spread throughout the surrounding region of Galilee. 29
After they left the synagogue, they went directly to the house
of Simon and Andrew, along with James and John. 30Now Simon's mother-in-law was lying in bed, sick with a fever, so they promptly told Jesus about her. 31He went up to her, took her by the hand, and helped her up. The fever left her, and she began serving them. 32
When evening came, after the sun had set, people started
bringing to him all those who were sick or possessed by demons. 33
In fact, the whole city gathered at the door. 34He healed many
who were sick with various diseases and drove out many demons. However, he wouldn't allow the demons to speak because they knew who he was. 35
In the morning, while it was still very dark, Jesus got up and
went to a deserted place and prayed there. 36Simon and his companions searched diligently for him. 37When they found him, they told him, “Everyone's looking for you.” 38
He said to them, “Let's go to the neighboring towns so that I
can preach there, too. For that is why I came out here.” 39So he International Standard Version® - 1.3
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went throughout Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and driving out demons. 40
Then a leper came to Jesus and began pleading with him. He
fell on his knees and said to him, “If you want to, you can make me clean.” 41
Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out his hand, touched
him, and said to him, “I do want to. Be made clean!” 42Instantly the leprosy left him, and he was clean. 43
Then Jesus sternly warned him and drove him away at once,
44
telling him, “See to it that you don't say anything to anyone.
Instead, go and show yourself to the priest, and then offer for your cleansing what Moses commanded as proof to the authorities.” 45
But when the man left, he began to proclaim it freely. He spread
the word so widely that Jesus could no longer enter a town openly, but had to stay out in deserted places. Still, people kept coming to him from everywhere.
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Mark Chapter 2 Chapter 2
1
Several days later Jesus returned to Capernaum, and it was
reported that he was at home. 2So many crowds had gathered that there wasn't any room left for them, even in front of the door. Jesus was speaking the word to them 3when some people came and brought him a paralyzed man being carried by four men. 4Since they couldn't bring him to Jesus because of the crowd, they made an opening in the roof over the place where he was. They dug through it and let down the cot on which the paralyzed man was lying. 5
When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralyzed man,
“Son, your sins are forgiven.” 6
Now some scribes were sitting there, arguing among
themselves, 7“Why does this man talk this way? He is blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?” 8
At once, Jesus knew in his spirit what they were saying to
themselves. He said to them, “Why are you arguing about such things among yourselves? 9 Which is easier: to say to the paralyzed man, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up, pick up your cot, and walk’? 10But I want you to know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins.” Then he said to the paralyzed man, 11“I say to you, get up, pick up your cot, and go home!” 12So the man got up, immediately picked up his cot, and went out before all of them. International Standard Version® - 1.3
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Scripture Worksheets As a result, all of the people were amazed and began to glorify
God, saying, “We have never seen anything like this!” 13
Jesus went out again beside the sea. The whole crowd kept
coming to him, and he kept teaching them. 14As he was walking along, he saw Levi, the son of Alphaeus, sitting at the tax collector's desk. Jesus said to him, “Follow me!” So Levi got up and followed him. 15
Later he was having dinner at Levi's house. Many tax
collectors and sinners were also eating with Jesus and his disciples, for there were many who were following him. 16When the scribes and the Pharisees saw him eating with sinners and tax collectors, they said to his disciples, “Why does he eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?” 17
When Jesus heard that, he said to them, “Healthy people don't
need a physician, but sick ones do. I did not come to call righteous people, but sinners.” 18
Now John's disciples and the Pharisees would fast regularly.
Some people came and asked Jesus, “Why do John's disciples and the Pharisees’ disciples fast, but your disciples don't fast?” 19
Jesus said to them, “The wedding guests can't fast while the
groom is with them, can they? As long as they have the groom with them, they can't fast. 20But the days will come when the groom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast on that day.” 238
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Mark Chapter 2
“No one sews a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment. If
he does, the patch pulls away from it—the new from the old—and a worse tear is made. 22And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. If he does, the wine will make the skins burst, and both the wine and the skins will be ruined. Instead, new wine is poured into fresh wineskins.” 23
Jesus happened to be going through the grainfields on a
Sabbath. As they made their way, his disciples began picking the heads of grain. 24The Pharisees said to him, “Look! Why are they doing what is not lawful on Sabbath days?” 25
He said to them, “Haven't you read what David did when he
and his companions were hungry and in need? 26How was it that he went into the House of God when Abiathar was high priest and ate the Bread of the Presence, which was not lawful for anyone but the priests to eat, and gave some of it to his companions?” 27Then he said to them, “The Sabbath was made for people, not people for the Sabbath. 28Therefore, the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.”
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Scripture Worksheets Chapter 3 1
Jesus went into the synagogue again, and a man with a
paralyzed hand was there. 2The people watched Jesus closely to see whether he would heal him on the Sabbath, intending to accuse him of doing something wrong. 3He said to the man with the paralyzed hand, “Come forward.” 4Then he asked them, “Is it lawful to do good or to do evil on Sabbath days, to save a life or to kill it?” But they were silent. 5Jesus looked around at them with anger, for he was deeply hurt because of their hardness of heart. Then he said to the man, “Hold out your hand.” The man held it out, and his hand was restored to health. 6Immediately the Pharisees, along with the Herodians, went out and began to plot against him to kill him. 7
So Jesus retired with his disciples to the sea. A large crowd
from Galilee, Judea, 8Jerusalem, Idumea, from across the Jordan, and from the region around Tyre and Sidon followed him. They came to him because they kept hearing about everything he was doing. 9Jesus told his disciples to have a boat ready for him so that the crowd wouldn't crush him. 10For he had healed so many people that all who had diseases kept crowding up against him in order to touch him. 11Whenever the unclean spirits saw him, they would fall down in front of him and scream, “You are the Son of God!” 12But he sternly ordered them again and again not to tell people who he was. 240
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Mark Chapter 3
Then Jesus went up on a hillside and called to him those
whom he wanted and they came to him. 14He appointed twelve whom he called apostles to accompany him, to be sent out to preach, 15and to have the authority to drive out demons. 16He appointed these twelve: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter); 17
James, the son of Zebedee; John, the brother of James (to whom
he gave the name Boanerges, that is, Sons of Thunder); 18Andrew; Philip; Bartholomew; Matthew; Thomas; James, the son of Alphaeus; Thaddeus; Simon the Cananaean; 19and Judas Iscariot, who later betrayed him. 20
Then he went home. The crowd came together again, so that
Jesus and his disciples couldn't even eat. 21When his family heard about it, they went to restrain him. For they kept saying, “He's out of his mind!” 22
The scribes who had come down from Jerusalem kept
repeating, “He has Beelzebul,” and “He drives out demons by the ruler of demons.” 23
So Jesus called them together and began to speak to them in
parables. “How can Satan drive out Satan? 24If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. 25And if a household is divided against itself, that household will not stand. 26
So if Satan rebels against himself and is divided, he cannot stand.
Indeed, his end has come. 27No one can go into a strong man's house and carry off his possessions without first tying up the International Standard Version® - 1.3
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strong man. Then he can ransack his house. 28Truly I tell you, people will be forgiven their sins and whatever blasphemies they utter. 29But whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit can never have forgiveness, but is guilty of eternal sin.” 30
For they had been saying, “He has an unclean spirit.”
31
Then his mother and his brothers arrived. They stood outside
and sent word to him and called for him. 32A crowd was sitting around him. They said to him, “Look! Your mother and your brothers are outside asking for you.” 33 34
He answered them, “Who are my mother and my brothers?”
Then looking at the people sitting around him, he said, “Here are
my mother and my brothers! 35For whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother.”
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Mark Chapter 4 Chapter 4
1
Then Jesus began to teach again beside the sea. Such a large
crowd gathered around him that he got into a boat and sat in it, while the entire crowd remained beside the sea on the shore. 2He began teaching them many things in parables. While he was teaching them he said, 3“Listen! A sower went out to sow. 4As he was sowing, some seeds fell along the path, and birds came and ate them up. 5Others fell on stony ground, where they did not have a lot of soil. They sprouted at once because the soil wasn't deep. 6But when the sun came up, they were scorched. Since they did not have any roots, they dried up. 7Others fell among thornbushes, and the thornbushes came up and choked them, and they did not produce anything. 8But others fell on good soil and produced a crop. They grew up, increased in size, and produced thirty, sixty, or one hundred times what was sown.” 9He added, “Let the person who has ears to hear, listen!” 10
When he was alone with his followers and the twelve, they
began to ask him about the parables. 11He said to them, “The secret about the kingdom of God has been given to you. But to those on the outside, everything comes in parables 12so that ‘they may see clearly but not perceive, and they may hear clearly but not understand, otherwise they might turn around and be forgiven.’”
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Then he said to them, “You don't understand this parable, so
how can you understand any of the parables? 14The sower sows the word. 15Some people are like the seeds along the path, where the word is sown. When they hear it, Satan immediately comes and takes away the word that was sown in them. 16Others are like the seeds sown on the stony ground. When they hear the word, they accept it at once with joy, 17but since they don't have any roots in themselves, they last for only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes along because of the word, they immediately fall away. 18Still others are like the seeds sown among the thornbushes. These are the people who hear the word, 19but the worries of life, the deceitful pleasures of wealth, and the desires for other things come in and choke the word so that it can't produce a crop. 20Others are like the seeds sown on good soil. They hear the word, accept it, and produce crops—thirty, sixty, or one hundred times what was sown.”1 21
Then Jesus said to them, “A lamp isn't brought indoors to be
put under a basket or under a bed, is it? It's to be put on a lampstand, isn't it? 22For nothing is hidden except for the purpose of having it revealed, and nothing is secret except for the purpose of having it come to light. 23If anyone has ears to hear, let him listen!” 24
He went on to say to them, “Pay attention to what you're
listening to! With the measure you use, you will be measured, and 244
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still more will be given to you. 25For whoever has something, will have more given to him. But whoever has nothing, even what he has will be taken away.” 26
He was also saying, “The kingdom of God is like a man who
scatters seeds on the ground. 27He sleeps and gets up night and day while the seeds sprout and grow, although he doesn't know how. 28
The ground produces grain by itself, first the stalk, then the head,
then the full grain in the head. 29But when the grain is ripe, he swings his sickle immediately because the harvest time has come.” 30
He was also saying, “How can we show what the kingdom of
God is like, or what parable can we use to describe it? 31It is like a mustard seed planted in the ground. Although it is the smallest of all the seeds on earth, 32when it is planted it comes up and becomes larger than all the garden plants. It grows such large branches that the birds in the sky can nest in its shade.” 33
With many other parables like these Jesus kept speaking the
word to them according to their ability to understand them. 34He did not tell them anything without using a parable, though he explained everything to his disciples in private. 35
That day, when evening had come, he said to them, “Let's
cross to the other side.” 36So they left the crowd and took him along in the boat just as he was. Other boats were with him. 37A violent windstorm came up, and the waves began breaking into the boat, so that the boat was rapidly becoming swamped. International Standard Version® - 1.3
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But Jesus was in the back of the boat, asleep on a cushion. So
they woke him up and said to him, “Teacher, don't you care that we're going to die?” 39
Then he got up, rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Hush!
Be still!” Then the wind stopped blowing, and there was a great calm. 40He said to them, “Why are you such cowards? Don't you have any faith yet?” 41
They were overcome with fear and kept saying to one
another, “Who is this man? Even the wind and the sea obey him!”
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Mark Chapter 5 Chapter 5
1
They arrived at the other side of the sea in the territory of the
Gerasenes. 2Just as Jesus stepped out of the boat, a man with an unclean spirit came out of the tombs and met him. 3He lived among the tombs, and no one could restrain him any longer, not even with a chain. 4He had often been restrained with shackles and chains but had snapped the chains apart and broken the shackles in pieces. No one could tame him. 5Night and day he kept screaming among the tombs and on the mountainsides and kept cutting himself with stones. 6
When he saw Jesus from a distance, he ran and fell down in
front of him, 7screaming in a loud voice, “What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I command you in the name of God not to torture me!” 8
For Jesus had been saying to him, “Come out of the man, you
unclean spirit!” 9Then Jesus asked him, “What's your name?” He said to him, “My name is Legion, because there are many of us.” 10He kept pleading with Jesus not to send them out of the territory. 11 12
Now a large herd of pigs was grazing on a hillside nearby.
So the demons begged him, “Send us among the pigs, so that we
can go into them!” 13So he let them do this. The unclean spirits came out of the man and went into the pigs, and the herd of about 2,000 rushed down the cliff into the sea and drowned there. International Standard Version® - 1.3
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Now when those who had been taking care of the pigs ran
away, they reported what had happened in the city and countryside. So the people went to see what had happened. 15When they came to Jesus and saw the man who had been possessed by the legion of demons, sitting there dressed and in his right mind, they were frightened. 16The people who had seen it told them what had happened to the demon-possessed man and the pigs. 17So they began to beg Jesus to leave their territory. 18
As he was getting into the boat, the man who had been
demon-possessed kept begging him to let him go with him. 19But Jesus wouldn't let him. Instead, he told him, “Go home to your family, and tell them how much the Lord has done for you and how merciful he has been to you.” 20So the man left and began proclaiming in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him. And everyone was utterly amazed. 21
When Jesus again had crossed to the other side in a boat, a
large crowd gathered around him by the seashore. 22Then a synagogue leader named Jairus arrived. When he saw Jesus, he fell at his feet 23and begged him urgently, saying, “My little daughter is dying. Come and lay your hands on her so that she may get well and live.” 24So Jesus went with him. A huge crowd kept following him and jostling him. 25
Now there was a woman who had been suffering from
chronic bleeding for twelve years. 26Although she had endured a 248
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Mark Chapter 5
great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all of her money, she had not been helped at all but rather grew worse. 27
Since she had heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the
crowd and touched his robe. 28For she had been saying, “If I can just touch his robe, I will get well.” 29Her bleeding stopped at once, and she felt in her body that she was healed from her illness. 30
Immediately Jesus became aware that power had gone out of
him. So he turned around in the crowd and asked, “Who touched my clothes?” 31
His disciples said to him, “You see the crowd jostling you,
and yet you ask, ‘Who touched me?’” 32But he kept looking around to see the woman who had done this. 33So the woman, knowing what had happened to her, came in fear and trembling, fell down before him, and told him the whole truth. 34
He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go
in peace and be healed from your illness.” 35
While he was still speaking, some people came from the
synagogue leader's home and said, “Your daughter is dead. Why bother the Teacher anymore?” 36
But when Jesus heard what they said, he told the synagogue
leader, “Stop being afraid! Just keep on believing.” 37Jesus allowed no one to go further with him except Peter, James, and John, the brother of James.
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When they came to the home of the synagogue leader, Jesus
saw mass confusion. People were crying and sobbing loudly. 39He entered the house and said to them, “Why all this confusion and crying? The child isn't dead but is sleeping.” 40They laughed and laughed at him. But he forced all of them outside. Then he took the child's father and mother, along with the men who were with him, and went into the room where the child was. 41
He took her by the hand and said to her, “Talitha koum,”
which means, “Little girl, I tell you, get up!” 42The little girl got up at once and started to walk, for she was twelve years old. Instantly they were overcome with astonishment. 43But Jesus strictly ordered them not to let anyone know about this. He also told them to give her something to eat.
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Jesus left that place and went back to his hometown, and his
disciples followed him. 2When the Sabbath came, he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were utterly amazed. They said, “Where did this man get all these things? What is this wisdom that has been given to him? What great miracles are being done by his hands! 3This is the builder, the son of Mary, and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas, and Simon, isn't it? His sisters are here with us, aren't they?” And they were offended by him. 4
Jesus was telling them, “A prophet is without honor only in his
hometown, among his relatives, and in his own home.” 5He couldn't perform a miracle there except to lay his hands on a few sick people and heal them. 6He was utterly amazed at their unbelief. Then he went around to the villages and continued teaching. 7
He called the twelve and began to send them out two by two,
giving them authority over unclean spirits. 8He instructed them to take nothing along on the trip except a walking stick—no bread, no traveling bag, nothing in their moneybag. 9They could wear sandals but not take along an extra shirt. 10He told them repeatedly, “Whenever you go into a home, stay there until you leave that place. 11If any place will not welcome you and the people refuse to listen to you, when you leave, shake its dust off your feet as a testimony against them.” International Standard Version® - 1.3
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So they went and preached that people should repent. 13They
also kept driving out many demons and pouring oil on many who were sick and healing them. 14
King Herod heard about this, because Jesus’ name had
become well-known. He was saying, “John the Baptist has been raised from the dead! That's why these miracles are at work in him.” 15
Others were saying, “He is Elijah.”
Still others were saying, “He is a prophet like one of the other prophets.” 16
But when Herod heard about it, he said, “John, whom I
beheaded, has been raised!” 17For Herod himself had sent men who arrested John, bound him with chains, and put him in prison on account of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife. For Herod had married her. 18
John had been telling Herod, “It's not lawful for you to have
your brother's wife.” 19So Herodias bore a grudge against John and wanted to kill him. But she couldn't do it 20because Herod was afraid of John. He knew that John was a righteous and holy man, and so he protected him. Whenever he listened to John, he did much of what he said. In fact, he liked listening to him. 21
An opportunity came during Herod's birthday celebration,
when he gave a banquet for his top officials, military officers, and the most important people of Galilee. 22When the daughter of 252
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Herodias came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his guests. So the king told the girl, “Ask me for anything you want, and I'll give it to you.” 23He swore with an oath to her, “I'll give you anything you ask for, up to half of my kingdom.” 24
So she went out and said to her mother, “What should I ask
for?” Her mother replied, “The head of John the Baptist.” 25
Immediately the girl hurried back to the king with her
request, “I want you to give me right now the head of John the Baptist on a platter.” 26
The king was deeply saddened, yet because of his oaths and
his guests he was reluctant to refuse her. 27So without delay the king sent a soldier and ordered him to bring John's head. The soldier went and beheaded him in prison. 28Then he brought John's head on a platter and gave it to the girl, and the girl gave it to her mother. 29When John's disciples heard about this, they came and carried off his body and laid it in a tomb. 30
The apostles gathered around Jesus and told him everything
they had done and taught. 31He said to them, “Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest for a while.” For so many people were coming and going that they didn't even have time to eat. 32So they went away in a boat to a deserted place by themselves.
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But many people saw them leave and recognized them. So
they hurried there on foot from all the towns and arrived ahead of them. 34When he got out of the boat, he saw a large crowd. He had compassion for them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd, and he began to teach them many things. 35
When it was quite late, his disciples came to him and said,
“This is a deserted place, and it's already late. 36Send the crowds away so that they can go to the neighboring farms and villages and buy themselves something to eat.” 37
But he answered them, “You give them something to eat.”
They said to him, “Should we go and buy 200 denarii worth of bread and give it to them to eat?” 38
He asked them, “How many loaves of bread do you have? Go
and see.” They found out and told him, “Five loaves and two fish.” 39
Then he ordered them to have all the people sit down in
groups on the green grass. 40So they sat down in groups of hundreds and fifties. 41Taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven and blessed them. Then he broke the loaves in pieces and kept giving them to his disciples to set before the people. He also divided the two fish among them all. 42All of them ate and were filled. 43Then the disciples picked up twelve baskets full of leftover bread and fish. 44There were 5,000 men who had eaten the loaves. 254
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Jesus immediately had his disciples get into a boat and cross
to Bethsaida ahead of him, while he sent the crowd away. 46After saying goodbye to them, he went up on a hillside to pray. 47
When evening had come, the boat was in the middle of the
sea, while he was alone on the land. 48He saw that they were straining at the oars, because the wind was against them. Shortly before dawn he came to them, walking on the sea. He intended to go up right beside them, 49but when they saw him walking on the sea, they thought it was a ghost and began to scream. 50All of them saw him and were terrified. Immediately he said to them, “Have courage! It is I. Stop being afraid!” 51Then he got into the boat with them, and the wind stopped blowing. The disciples were utterly astounded, 52for they didn't understand the significance of the loaves. Instead, their hearts were hardened. 53
When they had crossed over, they came ashore at Gennesaret
and anchored the boat. 54As soon as they got out of the boat, the people recognized Jesus. 55They ran all over the countryside and began carrying the sick on their cots to any place where they heard he was. 56Wherever he went, whether into villages, towns, or farms, people would place their sick in the marketplaces and beg him to let them touch even the tassel of his garment, and all who touched it were healed.
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The Pharisees and some of the scribes who had come from
Jerusalem gathered around Jesus. 2They noticed that some of his disciples were eating with unclean hands, that is, without washing them. 3(For the Pharisees and indeed all the Jewish people don't eat unless they wash their hands properly, following the tradition of their elders. 4They don't eat anything from the marketplace unless they dip it in water. They also observe many other traditions, such as the washing of cups, jars, brass pots, and dinner tables.) 5
So the Pharisees and the scribes asked Jesus, “Why don't your
disciples live according to the tradition of the elders? Instead, they eat with unclean hands.” 6
He told them, “Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you
hypocrites. As it is written, ‘These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. 7
Their worship of me is empty, because they teach human rules as doctrines.’
8
You abandon the commandment of God and hold to human
tradition.” 9
Then he said to them, “You have a fine way of rejecting the
commandment of God in order to keep your own tradition! 10For Moses said, ‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and ‘Whoever curses his father or mother must certainly be put to death.’ 11But 256
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you say, ‘If anyone tells his father or mother, “Whatever support you might have received from me is Corban,”’ (that is, an offering to God) 12you no longer let him do anything for his father or mother. 13You are destroying the word of God through your tradition that you have handed down. And you do many other things like that.” 14
Then he called to the crowd again and said to them, “Listen
to me, all of you, and understand! 15Nothing that goes into a person from the outside can make him unclean. It is what comes out of a person that makes a person unclean. 16If anyone has ears to hear, let him listen!” 17
When he had left the crowd and gone home, his disciples
began asking him about the parable. 18He said to them, “Are you so ignorant? Don't you know that nothing that goes into a person from the outside can make him unclean? 19For it doesn't go into his heart but into his stomach, and is expelled as waste.” (Thus he declared all foods clean.) 20He continued, “It is what comes out of a person that makes a person unclean. 21For it is from within, from the human heart, that evil thoughts come, as well as sexual immorality, stealing, murder, 22adultery, greed, wickedness, cheating, shameless lust, envy, slander, arrogance, and foolishness. 23All these things come from within and make a person unclean.” 24
Jesus left that place and went to the territory of Tyre and
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there. However, it couldn't be kept a secret. 25In fact, a woman whose little daughter had an unclean spirit immediately heard about him and came and fell down at his feet. 26Now the woman happened to be a Greek, born in Phoenicia in Syria. She kept asking him to drive the demon out of her daughter. 27But he kept telling her, “First let the children be filled. It is not right to take the children's bread and throw it to the puppies.” 28
But she answered him, “Yes, Lord. Yet even the puppies
under the table eat some of the children's crumbs.” 29
Then he said to her, “Because you have said this, go! The
demon has left your daughter.” 30So she went home and found the child lying in bed, and the demon was gone. 31
Then Jesus left the territory of Tyre and passed through Sidon
towards the Sea of Galilee, in the territory of the Decapolis. 32
Some people brought him a deaf man who also had a speech
impediment. They begged him to lay his hand on him. 33Jesus took him away from the crowd to be alone with him. Putting his fingers into the man's ears, he touched his tongue with saliva. 34
Then he looked up to heaven, sighed, and said to him,
“Ephphatha,” that is, “Be opened!” 35At once the man's ears were opened and his tongue was released, and he began to talk normally. 36
Jesus ordered the peoples not to tell anyone, but the more he kept
ordering them, the more they kept spreading the news.
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They were amazed beyond measure, saying, “He does
everything well! He even makes deaf people hear and mute people talk!”
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In those days, when a large crowd again had gathered with
nothing to eat, Jesus called his disciples and said to them, 2“I have compassion for the crowd because they have already been with me for three days and have nothing to eat. 3If I send them away to their homes hungry, they will faint on the road. Some of them have come a long distance.” 4
His disciples answered him, “Where could anyone get enough
bread to feed these people out here in the wilderness?” 5
He asked them, “How many loaves of bread do you have?”
They said, “Seven.” 6
So he ordered the crowd to sit down on the ground. Then he
took the seven loaves and gave thanks. He broke them in pieces and kept giving them to his disciples to distribute. So they served them to the crowd. 7They also had a few small fish. He blessed them and said that the fish should also be distributed. 8The people ate and were filled. Then the disciples picked up the leftover pieces—seven large baskets full. 9Now about 4,000 men were there. Then he sent them on their way. 10Immediately he got into a boat with his disciples and went to the region of Dalmanutha. 11
The Pharisees arrived and began arguing with Jesus. They
tested him by demanding from him a sign from heaven. 12He sighed deeply in his spirit and said, “Why does this generation demand a sign? Truly I tell you, no sign will be given to this 260
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generation.” 13Leaving them, he got into a boat again and crossed to the other side. 14
Now the disciples had forgotten to take any bread along and
had only one loaf with them in the boat. 15Jesus had been warning them, “Watch out! Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and the yeast of Herod!” 16
So they were discussing with one another the fact that they
didn't have any bread. 17Knowing this, Jesus said to them, “Why are you discussing the fact that you don't have any bread? Don't you understand or perceive yet? Are your hearts hardened? 18Do you have eyes but fail to see? Do you have ears but fail to hear? Don't you remember? 19When I broke the five loaves for the 5,000, how many baskets did you fill with leftover pieces?” They told him, “Twelve.” 20
“When I broke the seven loaves for the 4,000, how many
large baskets did you fill with the leftover pieces?” They told him, “Seven.” 21
Then he said to them, “Don't you perceive yet?”
22
As they came to Bethsaida, some people brought a blind man
to Jesus and begged him to touch him. 23Jesus took the blind man by the hand and led him out of the village. He spit into his eyes, placed his hands on him, and asked him, “Do you see anything?” 24
The man looked up and said, “I see people, but they look like
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eyes again, and he saw clearly. His sight was restored, and he saw everything perfectly even from a distance. 26
Then Jesus sent him home, saying, “Don't go into the village
or tell anyone in the village.” 27
Then Jesus and his disciples set out for the villages around
Caesarea Philippi. On the way he was asking his disciples, “Who do people say I am?” 28
They answered him, “Some say John the Baptist, others
Elijah, and still others one of the prophets.” 29
Then he began to ask them, “But who do you say I am?”
Peter answered him, “You are the Christ!” 30Jesus sternly ordered them not to tell anyone about him. 31
Then he began to teach them that the Son of Man would have
to suffer a great deal and be rejected by the elders, the high priests, and the scribes. Then he would be killed, but after three days he would rise again. 32He was speaking about this matter quite openly. Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. 33But turning and looking at his disciples, Jesus rebuked Peter, saying, “Get behind me, Satan! For you are not thinking God's thoughts but human thoughts!” 34
Then Jesus called the crowd to himself along with his
disciples and said to them, “If anyone wants to follow me, he must deny himself, pick up his cross, and follow me continually. 35For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his 262
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life for my sake and for the gospel will save it. 36For what profit will a person have if he gains the whole world and forfeits his life? 37
Indeed, what can a person give in exchange for his life? 38If
anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes with the holy angels in his Father's glory.”
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Then he said to them, “Truly I tell you, some people standing
here will not experience death until they see the kingdom of God arrive with power.” 2
Six days later, Jesus took Peter, James, and John and led them
up a high mountain to be alone with him. His appearance was changed in front of them, 3and his clothes became dazzling white, whiter than anyone on earth could bleach them. 4Then Elijah appeared to them, accompanied by Moses, and they were talking with Jesus. 5
Then Peter said to Jesus, “Rabbi, it's good that we're here!
Let's set up three shelters—one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” 6(Peter didn't know how to respond, for they were terrified.) 7
Then a cloud appeared and overshadowed them. A voice came
out of the cloud and said, “This is my Son, whom I love. Keep on listening to him!” 8Suddenly, as they looked around, they saw no one with them but Jesus alone. 9
On their way down the mountain, he ordered them not to tell
anyone what they had seen until the Son of Man had risen from the dead. 10They kept the matter to themselves but argued about what “rising from the dead” meant. 11So they asked him, “Don't the scribes say that Elijah must come first?”
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Mark Chapter 9
He told them, “Elijah is indeed coming first and will restore
all things. Why, then, is it written that the Son of Man must suffer a great deal and be treated shamefully? 13But I tell you that Elijah has come, yet people treated him just as they pleased, as it is written about him.” 14
As they approached the other disciples, they saw a large
crowd around them and some scribes arguing with them. 15The whole crowd was very surprised to see Jesus and ran to welcome him. 16
He asked the scribes, “What are you arguing about with
them?” 17
A man in the crowd answered him, “Teacher, I brought my
son to you. He has a spirit that won't let him talk. 18Whenever it brings on a seizure, it throws him to the ground. Then he foams at the mouth, grinds his teeth, and becomes stiff. So I asked your disciples to drive the spirit out, but they didn't have the power.” 19
Jesus said to them, “You unbelieving generation! How long
must I be with you? How long must I put up with you? Bring him to me!” 20
So they brought the boy to him. When the spirit saw Jesus, it
immediately threw the boy into convulsions. He fell on the ground and kept rolling around and foaming at the mouth. 21Then Jesus asked his father, “How long has this been happening to him?”
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Scripture Worksheets He said, “Since he was a child. 22The spirit has often thrown
him into fire and into water to destroy him. But if you are able to do anything, have pity on us and help us!” 23
Jesus said to him, “‘If you are able?’ Everything is possible
for the person who believes!”11 24
With tears flowing, the child's father at once cried out, “I do
believe! Help my unbelief!” 25
When Jesus saw that a crowd was running to the scene, he
rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to it, “You spirit that won't let him talk or hear—I command you to come out of him and never enter him again!” 26The spirit screamed, shook the child violently, and came out. The boy was like a corpse, and many said that he was dead. 27But Jesus took his hand and helped him up, and he stood up. 28
When Jesus came home, his disciples asked him privately,
“Why couldn't we drive it out?” 29
He told them, “This kind can come out only by prayer and
fasting.” 30
Then they left that place and were passing through Galilee.
Jesus didn't want anyone to know it, 31for he was teaching his disciples and saying to them, “The Son of Man will be betrayed into human hands. They will kill him, but after being dead for three days he will be raised.” 32They didn't understand what this statement meant, and were afraid to ask him. 266
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Mark Chapter 9
Then they came to Capernaum. While Jesus was at home, he
asked the disciples, “What were you arguing about on the road?” 34
But they kept silent, for on the road they had argued with one
another about who was the greatest. 35
So he sat down and called the twelve. He told them, “If
anyone wants to be first he must be last of all and servant of all.” 36
Then he took a little child and had him stand among them. He
took him in his arms and said to them, 37“Whoever welcomes a child like this in my name welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes not me but the one who sent me.” 38
John said to Jesus, “Teacher, we saw someone driving out
demons in your name. We tried to stop him, because he wasn't a follower like us.” 39
But Jesus said, “Don't stop him! For no one who works a
miracle in my name can slander me soon afterwards. 40For whoever is not against us is for us. 41Truly I tell you, whoever gives you a cup of water to drink because you belong to Christ will never lose his reward.” 42
“If anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me
to sin, it would be better for him if a large millstone were hung around his neck and he were thrown into the sea. 43So if your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life injured than to have two hands and go to hell, to the fire that cannot be put out. 44In that place, worms never die, and the fire is never put out. International Standard Version® - 1.3
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And if your foot causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to
enter life crippled than to have two feet and be thrown into hell. 46
In that place, worms never die, and the fire is never put out.
47
And if your eye causes you to sin, tear it out. It is better for you
to enter the kingdom of God with one eye than to have two eyes and be thrown into hell. 48In that place, worms never die, and the fire is never put out. 49For everyone will be salted with fire, and every sacrifice will be salted with salt. 50Salt is good. But if salt loses its taste, how can you restore its flavor? Keep on having salt among yourselves, and live in peace with one another.”
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Mark Chapter 10 Chapter 10
1
Then Jesus left that place and went into the territory of Judea
on the other side of the Jordan. Crowds gathered around him as usual, and he began to teach them again as was his custom. 2Some Pharisees came to test him. They asked, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?” 3
He answered them, “What did Moses command you?”
4
They said, “Moses allowed a man to write a certificate of
divorce and to divorce her.” 5
But Jesus said to them, “It was because of your hardness of
heart that he wrote this command for you. 6But from the beginning of creation, ‘God made them male and female.’ 7‘That is why a man will leave his father and mother and be united with his wife, 8
and the two will become one flesh.’ So they are no longer two, but
one flesh. 9Therefore, what God has joined together, man must never separate.” 10 11
Back in the house, the disciples asked him about this again.
So he said to them, “Whoever divorces his wife and marries
another woman commits adultery against her. 12And if a woman divorces her husband and marries another man, she commits adultery.” 13
Some people were bringing little children to Jesus to have
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“Let the little children come to me, and stop keeping them away. For the kingdom of God belongs to people like these. 15Truly I tell you, whoever doesn't receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never get into it at all.” 16Then he picked them up in his arms, laid his hands on them, and tenderly blessed them.13 17
As Jesus was setting out on a journey, a man ran up to him,
knelt down in front of him, and asked him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 18
Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? Nobody is
good except for one—God. 19You know the commandments: ‘Never murder.’ ‘Never commit adultery.’ ‘Never steal.’ ‘Never give false testimony.’ ‘Never cheat.’ ‘Honor your father and mother.’” 20
The man replied to him, “Teacher, I have kept all of these
since I was a young man.” 21
Jesus looked at him and loved him. Then he told him, “You're
missing one thing. Go and sell everything you own, give the money to the destitute, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come back and follow me.” 22But the man was shocked at this statement and went away sad, because he had many possessions. 23
Then Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How
hard it will be for those who have wealth to get into the kingdom of God!” 24The disciples were startled by these words, but Jesus said to them again, “Children, how hard it is for those who trust in 270
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their wealth to get into the kingdom of God! 25It is easier for a camel to squeeze through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to get into the kingdom of God.” 26
They were utterly amazed and said to one another, “Then
who can be saved?” 27
Jesus looked at them intently and said, “For humans it is
impossible, but not for God. All things are possible for God.” 28
Then Peter began to say to him, “See, we have left everything
and followed you.” 29
Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, there is no one who has left his
home, brothers, sisters, mother, father, children, or fields because of me and the gospel 30who will not receive a hundred times as much here in this world—homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children, and fields, along with persecutions—as well as eternal life in the age to come. 31But many who are first will be last, and the last will be first.” 32
Jesus and his disciples were on the road going up to
Jerusalem, and Jesus was walking ahead of them. They were utterly amazed, and the others who followed were afraid. Once again, he took the twelve aside and began to tell them what was going to happen to him. 33“See, we are going up to Jerusalem. The Son of Man will be handed over to the high priests and the scribes, and they will condemn him to death. Then they will hand him over
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to the gentiles, 34and they will make fun of him, spit on him, whip him, and kill him. But after three days he will be raised.” 35
James and John, the sons of Zebedee, went to Jesus and said
to him, “Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask you.” 36
He asked them, “What do you want me to do for you?”
37
They said to him, “Let us sit in your glory, one at your right
and one at your left.” 38
But Jesus told them, “You don't realize what you're asking.
Can you drink from the cup that I'm going to drink from or be baptized with the baptism with which I'm going to be baptized?” 39
They told him, “We can.”
Jesus said to them, “You will drink from the cup that I'm going to drink and be baptized with the baptism with which I'm going to be baptized. 40But it's not up to me to grant you a seat at my right or my left. Those positions have already been prepared for others.” 41
When the ten heard this, they began to be furious with James
and John. 42Jesus called the disciples and said to them, “You know that those who are recognized as rulers among the gentiles lord it over them, and their superiors act like tyrants over them. 43That's not the way it should be among you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 44and whoever wants to be first among you must be a slave to everyone. 45For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many people.” 272
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Mark Chapter 10
Then they came to Jericho. As Jesus, his disciples, and a large
crowd were leaving Jericho, a blind beggar named Bartimaeus (the son of Timaeus) was sitting by the road. 47When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” 48Many people sternly told him to be quiet, but he started shouting even louder, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” 49
So Jesus stopped and said, “Call him!”
So they called the blind man and told him, “Have courage! Get up. He's calling you.” 50He threw off his coat, jumped up, and went to Jesus. 51
Then Jesus asked him, “What do you want me to do for
you?” The blind man said to him, “Rabbouni, I want to see again.” 52
Jesus told him, “Go. Your faith has made you well.” At once
the man could see again, and he began to follow Jesus down the road.
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When they came near Jerusalem, at Bethphage and Bethany,
near the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two of his disciples on ahead 2
and said to them, “Go into the village ahead of you. As soon as
you go into it, you will find a colt tied up that no one has ever sat on. Untie it, and bring it along. 3If anyone asks you, ‘Why are you doing this?,’ say, ‘The Lord needs it,’ and he will send it back here at once.” 4
So they went and found the colt outside in the street tied up
next to a doorway. While they were untying it, 5some men standing there asked them, “What are you doing untying that colt?” 6The disciples told them what Jesus had said, and the men let them go. 7
They brought the colt to Jesus and threw their coats upon it,
and he sat on it. 8Many people spread their coats on the road, while others spread leafy branches that they had cut in the fields. 9Those who went ahead and those who followed him were shouting,8 “Hosanna! How blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord! 10
How blessed is the coming kingdom of our forefather David!
Hosanna in the highest heaven!”
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Mark Chapter 11
Then Jesus went into Jerusalem and into the temple and looked
around at everything. Since it was already late, he went out with the twelve to Bethany. 12
The next day, as they were leaving Bethany, Jesus became
hungry. 13Seeing in the distance a fig tree covered with leaves, he went to see if he could find anything on it. When he came to it, he found nothing except leaves because it wasn't the season for figs. 14
So he said to it, “May no one ever eat fruit from you again!”
Now his disciples were listening to this. 15
When they came to Jerusalem, he went into the temple and
began to throw out those who were selling and those who were buying in the temple. He overturned the moneychangers’ tables and the chairs of those who sold doves. 16He wouldn't even let anyone carry a vessel through the temple. 17
Then he began to teach them, saying, “It is written, is it not,
‘My house is to be called a house of prayer for all nations’? But you have turned it into a hideout for bandits!” 18When the high priests and elders heard this, they began to look for a way to kill him. For they were afraid of him, because the whole crowd was amazed at his teaching. 19When evening came, Jesus and his disciples would leave the city. 20
While they were walking along early in the morning, they
saw the fig tree dried up to its roots. 21Peter remembered and said to him, “Rabbi, look! The fig tree you cursed has dried up!” International Standard Version® - 1.3
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Jesus said to them, “Have faith in God! 23Truly I tell you, if
anyone says to this mountain, ‘Be lifted up and thrown into the sea,’ if he doesn't doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. 24That is why I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it and it will be yours. 25
“Whenever you stand up to pray, forgive whatever you have
against anyone, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins. 26But if you do not forgive, your Father in heaven will not forgive your sins.” 27
Then they went into Jerusalem again. While Jesus was
walking in the temple, the high priests, the scribes, and the elders came to him 28and asked him, “By what authority are you doing these things, and who gave you this authority to do them?” 29
Jesus said to them, “I will ask you one question. Answer me,
and then I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things. 30
Was John's authority to baptize from heaven or from humans?
Answer me.” 29 11
31
They began discussing this among themselves. “If we say,
‘From heaven,’ he will say, ‘Then why didn't you believe him?’ 32
But if we say, ‘From humans’…?” For they were afraid of the
crowd, because everyone really thought John was a prophet.
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So they answered Jesus, “We don't know.” Then Jesus told
them, “Then I won't tell you by what authority I am doing these things.”
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Then Jesus began to speak to them in parables. “A man
planted a vineyard. He put a wall around it, dug a pit for the wine press, and built a watchtower. Then he leased it to tenant farmers and went abroad. 2At the right time he sent a servant to the farmers to collect from them a share of the produce from the vineyard. 3But the farmers grabbed the servant, beat him, and sent him back empty-handed. 4Again, the man sent another servant to them. They beat the servant over the head and treated him shamefully. 5Then the man sent another, and that one they killed. So it was with many other servants. Some of these they beat, and others they killed. 6He still had one more person to send, a son whom he loved. Finally, he sent him to them, saying, ‘They will respect my son.’ 7But those farmers said to one another, ‘This is the heir. Come on, let's kill him, and the inheritance will be ours!’ 8So they grabbed him, killed him, and threw him out of the vineyard. 9
“Now what will the owner of the vineyard do? He will come
and destroy the farmers and give the vineyard to others. 10Haven't you ever read this Scripture: ‘The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. 11
This was the Lord's doing, and it is amazing in our eyes’?”
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Mark Chapter 12
They were trying to arrest him but were afraid of the crowd.
Realizing that he had spoken this parable against them, they left him alone and went away. 13
Then they sent some Pharisees and some Herodians to him,
intending to trap him in what he said. 14They came and said to him, “Teacher, we know that you are sincere. You don't favor any individual, for you pay no attention to external appearance. Rather, you teach the way of God truthfully. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not? Should we pay them or should we not?” 15
But Jesus recognized their hypocrisy and said to them, “Why
are you testing me? Bring me a denarius and let me see it.” 16So they brought one. Then he asked them, “Whose face and name is this?” They said to him, “Caesar's.” 17
So Jesus said to them, “Give back to Caesar the things that
are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.” And they were utterly amazed at him. 18
Then some Sadducees, who claim there is no resurrection,
came to Jesus and asked him, 19“Teacher, Moses wrote for us that if a man's brother dies and leaves a wife but no child, he should marry the widow and have children for his brother. 20There were seven brothers. The first one married and died without having children. 21Then the second married her and died without having children, and so did the third. 22None of the seven left any children. International Standard Version® - 1.3
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Last of all, the woman died, too. 23In the resurrection, whose wife will she be, since the seven had married her?” 20 24
Jesus said to them, “Aren't you mistaken because you don't
know the Scriptures or God's power? 25For when people rise from the dead, they neither marry nor are given in marriage but are like the angels in heaven. 26As for the dead being raised, haven't you read in the book of Moses, in the story about the bush, how God said, ‘I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob’? 27He is not the God of the dead, but of the living. You are badly mistaken!” 28
Then one of the scribes came near and heard them arguing
with one another. He saw how well Jesus answered them, so he asked him, “Which commandment is the most important of them all?” 29
Jesus answered, “The most important is, ‘Hear, O Israel, the
Lord our God is one Lord, 30and you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ 31The second is this: ‘You must love your neighbor as yourself.’ No other commandment is greater than these.” 32
Then the scribe said to him, “Well said,r Teacher! You have
told the truth that ‘God is one, and there is no other besides him.’ 33
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To love him with all your heart, with all your understanding, and
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Mark Chapter 12
with all your strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself is more important than all the burnt offerings and sacrifices.” 34
When Jesus saw how wisely the man answered, he told him,
“You are not far from the kingdom of God.” After that, no one dared to ask him another question. 35
While Jesus was teaching in the temple, he said, “How can
the scribes say that the Christ is David's son? 36David himself said by the Holy Spirit, ‘The Lord said to my Lord, “Sit at my right hand, until I put your enemies under your feet.”’ 37
David himself calls him ‘Lord.’ Then how can he be his
son?” And the large crowd kept listening to him with delight. 38
As he taught, he said, “Beware of the scribes! They like to
walk around in long robes, to be greeted in the marketplaces, 39and to have the best seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets. 40They devour widows’ houses and say long prayers to cover it up. They will receive greater condemnation!” 41
As Jesus sat facing the offering box, he watched how the
crowd was dropping their money into it. Many rich people were dropping in large amounts. 42Then a destitute widow came and dropped in two small copper coins, worth about a cent. 43He called his disciples and said to them, “Truly I tell you, this destitute widow has dropped in more than all of those who are contributing International Standard Version® - 1.3
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to the offering box. 44For all of them contributed out of their surplus, but she, in her poverty, has dropped in everything she had to live on.”
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Mark Chapter 13 Chapter 13
1
As Jesus was leaving the temple, one of his disciples said to
him, “Look, Teacher, what large stones and what beautiful buildings!” 2
Jesus said to him, “Do you see these large buildings? Not one
stone here will be left on another that will not be torn down.” 3
As Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives facing the temple,
Peter, James, John, and Andrew were asking him privately, 4“Tell us, when will these things take place, and what will be the sign when these things will be put into effect?” 5
Jesus began to say to them, “See to it that no one deceives
you. 6Many will come in my name and say, ‘I am he,’ and they will deceive many people. 7But when you hear of wars and rumors of wars, stop being alarmed. These things must take place, but the end hasn't come yet. 8For nation will rise up in arms against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes and famines in various places. These things are only the beginning of the birth pains.” 9
“As for yourselves, be on your guard! People will hand you
over to local councils, and you will be beaten in their synagogues. You will stand before governors and kings to testify to them because of me. 10But first, the gospel must be proclaimed to all nations.
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“When they take you away and hand you over for trial, don't
worry ahead of time about what you will say. Instead, say whatever is given to you in that hour, for it won't be you speaking, but the Holy Spirit. 12Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child. Children will rebel against their parents and have them put to death. 13You will be hated continuously by everyone because of my name. But the person who endures to the end will be saved.” 14
“So when you see the destructive desecration standing where
it should not be (let the reader take note), then those who are in Judea must flee to the mountains. 15The person who is on his housetop must not come down and go into his house to take anything out of it, 16and the person who is in the field must not turn back to get his coat. 17
“How terrible it will be for women who are pregnant or who
are nursing babies in those days! 18Pray that it may not be in winter. 19For those days will be a time of suffering, a kind that has not happened from the beginning of the creation that God made until now and certainly will never happen again. 20If the Lord did not limit those days, no one would be saved. But for the sake of the elect whom he has chosen, he has limited those days. 21
“At that time, if anyone says to you, ‘Look! Here is the
Christ!’, or, ‘Look! There he is!’, don't believe it. 22For false christs and false prophets will appear and produce signs and omens 284
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to deceive, if possible, the elect. 23So be on your guard! I've told you everything before it happens.” 24
“But after the suffering of those days,
‘The sun will be darkened, the moon will not give its light, 25
the stars will fall from the sky, and the powers of heaven will be shaken loose.’
26
Then people will see ‘the Son of Man coming in clouds’ with
great power and glory. 27He will send out his angels and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of heaven.” 28
“Now learn a lesson from the fig tree. When its branches
become tender and it produces leaves, you know that summer is near. 29In the same way, when you see these things taking place, you will know that he is near, right at the door. 30Truly I tell you, this generation will not disappear until all these things take place. 31
Heaven and earth will disappear, but my words will never
disappear.” 32
“No one knows when that day or hour will come—not the
angels in heaven, not the Son, but only the Father. 33Be careful! Watch out! For you don't know when the time will come. 34
“It's like a man who went on a trip. As he left home, he put
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doorkeeper to be alert. 35So keep on watching, because you don't know when the master of the house is coming—whether in the evening, at three o'clock in the morning, or at dawn. 36Otherwise, he may come suddenly and find you asleep. 37I'm telling you what I'm telling everyone: Be alert!”
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Mark Chapter 14 Chapter 14
1
Now it was two days before the Passover and the Festival of
Unleavened Bread. So the high priests and the scribes were looking for a way to arrest Jesus secretly and to have him put to death. 2For they kept saying, “This must not happen during the festival, lest there be a riot among the people.” 3
While Jesus was in Bethany at the home of Simon the leper
and sitting at the table, a woman arrived with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume made from pure nard. She broke open the jar and poured the perfume on his head. 4Some who were there said to one another in irritation, “Why was the perfume wasted like this? 5This perfume could have been sold for more than 300 denarii and the money given to the destitute.” So they got extremely angry with her. 6
But Jesus said, “Leave her alone. Why are you bothering her?
She has done a beautiful thing for me. 7For you will always have the destitute with you and can help them whenever you want, but you will not always have me. 8She has done what she could. She poured perfume on my body in preparation for my burial. 9Truly I tell you, wherever the gospel is proclaimed in the whole world, what she has done will also be told as a memorial to her.” 8 10
Then Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went to the high
priests to betray Jesus to them. 11When they heard this, they were
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delighted and promised to give him money. So he began to look for a good opportunity to betray him. 12
On the first day of the Festival of Unleavened Bread, when
the Passover lamb is sacrificed, Jesus’ disciples asked him, “Where do you want us to go and make preparations for you to eat the Passover meal?” 13
He sent two of his disciples and told them, “Go into the city,
and you will meet a man carrying a jug of water. Follow him. 14
When he goes into a house, say to its owner that the Teacher
asks, ‘Where is my room where I can eat the Passover meal with my disciples?’ 15Then he will show you a large upstairs room that is furnished and ready. Get everything ready for us there.” 16So the disciples left and went into the city. They found everything just as Jesus had told them, and they prepared the Passover meal. 17
When evening came, Jesus arrived with the twelve. 18While
they were at the table eating, Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, one of you is going to betray me, one who is eating with me.” 19
They began to be very sad and said to him, one after the
other, “Surely I am not the one, am I?” 20
He said to them, “It's one of you twelve, the one who is
dipping his bread into the bowl with me. 21For the Son of Man is going away, just as it has been written about him, but how terrible it will be for that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been better for him if he had never been born.” 288
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Mark Chapter 14
While they were eating, Jesus took a loaf of bread and
blessed it. Then he broke it in pieces and handed it to them, saying, “Take some. This is my body.” 23Then he took a cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, and they all drank from it. 24He said to them, “This is my blood of the covenant that is being poured out for many people. 25Truly I tell you, I will never again drink the product of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.” 26After singing a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives. 27
Then Jesus said to them, “All of you will turn against me. For
it is written, ‘I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.’ 28
However, after I have been raised, I will go to Galilee ahead of
you.” 29
But Peter said to him, “Even if everyone else turns against
you, I certainly won't.” 30
Jesus said to him, “Truly I tell you, today, this very night,
before a rooster crows twice, you will deny me three times.” 31
But Peter kept saying emphatically, “Even if I have to die
with you, I will never deny you!” And all the others kept saying the same thing.
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Then they came to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to
his disciples, “Sit down here while I pray.” 33He took Peter, James, and John along with him, and he began to be distressed and troubled. 34So he said to them, “I am deeply grieved, even to the point of death. Wait here and stay awake.” 35
Going on a little farther, he fell to the ground and kept
praying that if it were possible the hour might pass from him. 36He kept repeating, “Abba! Father! All things are possible for you. Take this cup away from me. Yet not what I want but what you want.” 37
When he went back, he found them asleep. He said to Peter,
“Simon, are you asleep? You couldn't stay awake for one hour, could you? 38All of you must stay awake and pray that you won't come into temptation. The spirit is indeed willing, but the flesh is weak.” 39 40
He went away again and prayed the same prayer as before.
Again he came back and found them asleep, for their eyes were
very heavy. They didn't even know what they should say to him. 41
He came back a third time and said to them, “You might as
well keep on sleeping and resting. Enough of that! The time has come. Look! The Son of Man is being betrayed into the hands of sinners. 42Get up! Let's go! See, the one who is betraying me is near!”
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Mark Chapter 14
Just then, while Jesus was still speaking, Judas, one of the
twelve, arrived. A crowd armed with swords and clubs was with him. They were from the high priests, the scribes, and the elders. 44
Now the betrayer personally had given them a signal, saying,
“The one I kiss is the man. Arrest him, and lead him safely away.” 45
So Judas immediately went up to Jesus and said, “Rabbi,” and
kissed him tenderly. 46
Then the men took hold of Jesus and arrested him. 47But one
of those standing there drew his sword and struck the high priest's servant, cutting off his ear. 48Jesus said to them, “Have you come out with swords and clubs to arrest me as if I were a bandit? 49Day after day I was with you in the temple teaching, yet you didn't arrest me. But the Scriptures must be fulfilled.” 50Then all the disciples deserted him and ran away. 51
A certain young man was following Jesus. He was wearing
nothing but a linen sheet. They grabbed him, 52but he left the linen sheet behind and ran away naked. 53
Then they took Jesus to the high priest. All the high priests,
elders, and scribes had gathered together. 54Peter followed him at a distance as far as the high priest's courtyard. He was sitting with the servants and warming himself at the fire. 55
Meanwhile, the high priests and the whole Council were
looking for some testimony against Jesus in order to have him put
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to death, but they couldn't find any. 56Although many people gave false testimony against him, their testimony didn't agree. 57
Then some men stood up and gave false testimony against
him, saying, 58“We ourselves heard him say, ‘I will destroy this sanctuary made by human hands, and in three days I will build another one not made by human hands.’” 59But even on this point their testimony didn't agree. 58 60
Then the high priest stood up before them and asked Jesus,
“Don't you have any answer to what these men are testifying against you?” 61But he kept silent and didn't answer at all. The high priest asked him again, “Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed One?” 62
Jesus said, “I am. And
‘you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of the Power’ and ‘coming with the clouds of heaven.’” 63
Then the high priest tore his clothes and said, “Why do we
still need witnesses? 64You have heard his blasphemy! What is your verdict?” All of them condemned him as deserving death. 65
Some of them began to spit on him. They blindfolded him
and kept hitting him with their fists and telling him, “Prophesy!” Even the servants took him and slapped him around. 292
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While Peter was down in the courtyard, one of the high
priest's servant girls came by. 67When she saw Peter warming himself, she glared at him and said, “You, too, were with Jesus from Nazareth.” 68
But he denied it, saying, “I don't know or understand what
you're talking about.” Then he went out into the entryway. Just then a rooster crowed. 69
The servant girl saw him and again said to those who were
standing around, “This man is one of them!” 70
Again he denied it. After a little while the people who were
standing there began to say to Peter again, “Obviously you're one of them, because you are a Galilean!” 71
Then he began to invoke a divine curse and to swear with an
oath, “I don't know this man you're talking about!” 72
Just then a rooster crowed a second time. Peter remembered
that Jesus said to him, “Before a rooster crows twice, you will deny me three times.” Then he broke down and cried.
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Scripture Worksheets Chapter 15 1
As soon as it was morning, the high priests convened a
meeting with the elders and scribes and the whole Council. They bound Jesus with chains, led him away, and handed him over to Pilate. 2Pilate asked him, “Are you the king of the Jews?” Jesus answered him, “You say so.” 3
The high priests kept accusing him of many things. 4So Pilate
asked him again, “Don't you have any answer? Look how many accusations they're bringing against you!” 5But Jesus no longer answered anything, so that Pilate was astonished. 6
At every festival Pilate would release any one prisoner whom
the people requested. 7Now there was a man in prison named Barabbas. He was with the insurgents who had committed murder during the rebellion. 8So the crowd came and began to request that Pilate do for them what he always did. 9Pilate answered them, “Do you want me to release the king of the Jews for you?” 10For he knew that the high priests had handed him over because of jealousy. 9 11
But the high priests stirred up the crowd to get him to release
Barabbas for them instead. 12So Pilate said to them again, “Then what should I do with the man you call the king of the Jews?” 13
They shouted back, “Crucify him!”
14
Pilate asked them, “Why? What has he done wrong?”
But they shouted even louder, “Crucify him!” 294
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Mark Chapter 15
So Pilate, wanting to satisfy the crowd, released Barabbas for
them, but he had Jesus whipped and handed over to be crucified. 16
The soldiers led Jesus into the courtyard of the palace (that is,
the governor's headquarters) and called out the whole guard. 17
They dressed him in a purple robe, twisted some thorns into a
victor's crown, and placed it on his head. 18They began to greet him, “Long live the king of the Jews!” 19They kept hitting him on the head with a stick, spitting on him, kneeling in front of him, and worshiping him. 20When they had finished making fun of him, they stripped him of the purple robe, put his own clothes back on him, and led him away to crucify him. 21
They forced a certain passer-by who was coming in from the
country to carry Jesus’ cross. He was Simon of Cyrene, the father of Alexander and Rufus. 22They took Jesus to a place called Golgotha, which means Skull Place. 23They tried to give him wine mixed with myrrh, but he wouldn't take it. 24
Then they crucified him. They divided his clothes among
themselves by throwing dice to see what each one would get. 25It was nine in the morning when they crucified him. 26The written notice of the charge against him read, “The king of the Jews.” 27
They crucified two bandits with him, one on his right and the
other on his left. 29Those who passed by kept insulting him, shaking their heads, and saying, “Ha! You who were going to
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destroy the sanctuary and rebuild it in three days— 30save yourself and come down from the cross!” 31
In the same way the high priests, along with the scribes, were
also making fun of him among themselves. They kept saying, “He saved others but can't save himself! 32Let the Christ, the king of Israel, come down from the cross now so that we may see it and believe.” Even the men who were crucified with him kept insulting him. 33
At twelve noon, darkness came over the whole land until
three in the afternoon. 34At three o'clock Jesus cried out with a loud voice, “Eloi, eloi, lema sabachthani?”, which means, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” 35
When some of the people standing there heard this, they said,
“Listen! He's calling for Elijah!” 36
So someone ran and soaked a sponge in some sour wine.
Then he put it on a stick and offered Jesus a drink, saying, “Wait! Let's see if Elijah comes to take him down!” 37
Then Jesus gave a loud cry and breathed his last. 38The
curtain in the sanctuary was torn in two from top to bottom. 39
When the centurion who stood facing Jesus saw how he had cried
out and breathed his last, he said, “This man certainly was the Son of God!” 40
Now there were women watching from a distance. Among
them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of young James and 296
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Joseph, and Salome. 41They used to accompany him and care for him while he was in Galilee. Many other women who had come up to Jerusalem with him were there, too. 42
It was the Day of Preparation, that is, the day before the
Sabbath. Since it was already evening, 43Joseph of Arimathea, a highly respected member of the Council, who was waiting for the kingdom of God, went boldly to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. 44Pilate wondered if Jesus had already died, so he summoned the centurion to ask him if he was in fact dead. 45When he learned from the centurion that he was dead, he let Joseph have the corpse. 46Joseph bought some linen cloth, took the body down, and wrapped it in the cloth. Then he laid it in a tomb that had been cut out of the rock and rolled a stone against the door of the tomb. 47
Now Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joseph saw where
he was laid.
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When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the
mother of James, and Salome bought spices to go and anoint Jesus. 2
Very early on the first day of the week, when the sun had just
come up, they were going to the tomb. 3They kept saying to one another, “Who will roll away the stone for us from the entrance to the tomb?” 4Then they looked up and saw that the stone had been rolled away. (For it was a very large stone.) 5
As they went into the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in
a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were utterly astonished. 6But he said to them, “Stop being astonished! You are looking for Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has been raised. He is not here. Look at the place where they laid him. 7But go and tell his disciples, especially Peter, that he is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.” 8
So they left the tomb and ran away, for shock and
astonishment had overwhelmed them. They didn't say a thing to anyone, because they were afraid. 9
After Jesus rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared
first to Mary Magdalene, from whom he had driven out seven demons. 10She went and told those who had been with him and who now were grieving and crying. 11When they heard that he was alive and that he had been seen by her, they refused to believe it.
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Mark Chapter 16
After this, he appeared in a different form to two disciples as
they were walking into the country. 13They went back and told the others, who didn't believe them, either. 14
Finally he appeared to the eleven disciples while they were
eating. He rebuked them for their unbelief and stubbornness, because they had not believed those who had seen him after he had risen. 15Then he said to them, “As you go into all the world, proclaim the gospel to the whole creation. 16The one who believes and is baptized will be saved, but the one who doesn't believe will be condemned. 17
“These are the signs that will accompany those who believe:
In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; 18they will pick up snakes in their hands; even if they drink any deadly poison it will not hurt them; and they will place their hands on the sick, and they will recover.” 19
So the Lord Jesus, after talking with them, was taken up to
heaven and sat down at the right hand of God. 20The disciples went out and preached everywhere, while the Lord kept working with them and confirming the message by the signs that accompanied it.
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Inductive Study Methodology
Appendix
Inductive Study Methodology Definition: Using the Bible as the primary source of information and reading with a purpose by asking relevant questions, so that through complete observation, one can accurately interpret, determine eternal principles, and then apply Scripture to all circumstances of life. • • • •
God speaks through the prophets, recorded in Scripture God gave the word so that He might reveal Himself to us God speaks through Jesus, as He is the word who came in the flesh The Holy Spirit gives all believers the ability to understand the word of God
Four Components of the Inductive Study Methodology 1. Observation: Seeing what the text says, to gain facts and information The process of observation is foundational to inductive Bible study Asking the “5 Ws and an H” questions helps students focus on the obvious Who People
What Events
Where Place
When Time
Why Reason or purpose
How Means or method
2. Interpretation: Determining what the text means to gain understanding Looking for information and the correlation in the context of Scripture Context: Looking at the surrounding words, phrases, sentences, paragraphs, chapters, and book in which something exists, occurs, or is placed. The author’s use of the repetition of ideas or thoughts will also help you discover meaning within the context. 3. Principlization: Determining what eternal truths are being taught? Stating the author’s propositions, arguments, narration, and illustrations as abiding timeless truths. 4. Application: Conviction as to how the truth applies personally, leads to transformation. Component of the Methodology
Holy Spirit’s Ministry
Man’s Response
Product of Component
Observation -Focus on the obvious
Illumination
Reasoning
Facts & Information
Interpretation -Done in light of context
Teaching
Evaluation
Understanding
Principlization -Focus on Learning
Conviction
Summarization
Eternal Principles
Application -Begins with individual
Guidance
Accountability
Transformation
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Appendix
Step 1
Inductive Study Methodology
The Overview
Discovering the Context or the Big Picture Purpose: To identify the flow of thought that ties the book together and to identify the author's reason for writing A. Who is the Author: Ask Questions
B.
C.
D. E. F.
G.
• • • • •
Who is writing and what does he say about himself? What are his circumstances? Where is he and why is he there? When in his life is he writing? Why is he writing?
• • • • • •
Who is it written to? How is the recipient described? What does it say about the recipient? What is the relationship of the recipients to the author? Where is the recipient? Why is the author writing to the recipient?
• • •
Who are the other people mentioned and what does the text say about them? What do you learn about their relationship to the author or recipient? What is their relationship to the key message?
• •
Words generally repeated throughout the text When removed the text is left without meaning
• •
Teaching doctrinal truth that would inform and equip those who follow after Christ Historical narrative, sharing historical events or personal testimony
• •
A command or imperative statement, telling someone what they are to do Usually written in the second person such as you, your, or yourself; or introduced with the phrase “let us”
Who is or who are the Recipient/s: Ask Questions
Other People Mentioned: (Either specifically, or by generalization or implication)
Look for Key Words
Look for Declarative Statements Look for Instructions or Commands
Look for Exhortations •
H. I.
302
• •
A personal message from the author to encourage the recipients regarding their own situation, whether personally or within their church Show the uniqueness of the situation that led to the book being written Sometimes introduced with the word “you,” calling or urging obedience
• •
Confronting the behavior of the recipient that has not honored God To advise strongly, to reprove, or to call the recipients to repentance
• •
To put on guard or to put on notice concerning possible danger, evil, or harm To describe a just recompense or a possible consequence for behavior based on God’s prophecy concerning judgment
Look for Admonitions Look for Warnings
Inductive Study Methodology
Step 2
Appendix
Comprehensive Chapter Study
Observation Chapter by Chapter Purpose:
A.
Marking Key Words 1. 2. 3. 4.
B. C. D.
E. F.
To examine the details of the chapter, to see how the chapter details relate to the book Mark so your eye can see on the page the occurrence of the word This is typically done with colored pencils God, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, and their pronouns are always keywords The key words become a basis for developing a list of facts
Making lists of the key words by writing phrases and sentences Reasoning through the lists of information from the key words Contrasts - Reasoning from another perspective Comparisons of ideas or bodies of truth that the author used to teach. • Point out differences in words or phrases • Most contrasts are identified by the following words: but, however, or never the less
Comparisons
Dealing with ideas or bodies of truth that are similar to make some point • Identified by the words: like, as
Terms of Expression
Time - Helps us answer when something occurred or will occur • Look for words like: now, then, or later Conclusion or Results or Purpose • Look for words like: for, for this reason, so that, that, or because Verb Usage – Will tell if something has occurred in the past, will occur in the future, or is to be part of the present time
Step 3
Word Studies
Purpose: To deepen understanding of the text To clarify understanding of the text To determine the meaning of unknown or confusing words or sections of texts
A.
Pick a Word 1. 2. 3.
B.
Look at the key words in the text Look at the words with unclear meanings Look at the verbs and nouns in the text
Look up the definition in a word study tool Exhaustive concordances contain three sections 1. Alphabetical list of all words used in the text of Scripture that are then ordered in biblical occurrence 2. Dictionary of Hebrew words arranged numerically 3. Dictionary of Greek words arranged numerically Expository Dictionaries Vine’s Dictionary of the New Testament: keyed to the KJV Spiros Zodhiates. Complete Word Study Dictionary of the New Testament Complete Word Study Dictionary of the Old Testament
C.
Read the definition back into the text
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Appendix
Step 4
Inductive Study Methodology
Cross Referencing of Scripture
Purpose: To establish the context within the broader context of Scripture • • • •
Context always rules in all interpretations Amplify or clarify the understanding of the text Scripture is the best interpreter of Scripture Scripture never contradicts Scripture
A.
How to determine Cross References: 1. Look up the word in a concordance 2. Look up the word in a topical Bible 3. Look up verses identified by marginal references
B.
Read the cross reference
C.
Evaluate the message in the light of the cross reference
Step 5
Determining Paragraph and Chapter Theme and Book Title
A.
Paragraph Analysis • Determine the paragraph theme. The editors of some translations of the Bible have each verse starting on a new line within each chapter. The NASB begins each new paragraph by printing the verse number in bold type. The NIV divided the chapters into paragraphs, as we know them, indenting at the beginning of each new paragraph. When you study the ancient languages of the Bible, there are differences in paragraph divisions from one manuscript to another. The words of Scripture were inspired, but years ago, editors added verse numbers, paragraph divisions, and the divisions made by chapter numbers.
B.
Developing each Chapter Theme and the Book Title • A collection of summary statements, one for each chapter and one for the entire book • These can be verified from key words, instructions, exhortations, admonitions, and warnings within the chapter 1. Use five words or less, with at least one actual word found in a chapter 2. Each chapter title should be distinctive from the other chapter titles 3. Each title should be descriptive of what is in the chapter 4. Place these themes on the Theme and Title Chart
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How?
Why?
What?
Author Recipient(s) Other people Key words Declarative Statements Instructions Exhortations Admonitions Warnings
A. B. C. D. E.
F. G. H. I.
Identify the flow of thoughts which ties it together
•
A. B. C. D. E. F.
•
Marking key words Making lists of facts Reasoning the lists Contrasts Comparisons Terms of expression of time, conclusion or results
Examine the details of the chapter Examine how the chapter details relate to the book
Comprehensive Chapter Studies
The Overview: Discovering the context or the big picture of the book • Identify the author’s reason for writing •
Step 2
Step 1
Deepen the understanding of the text Clarify the understanding of the text
A. Pick a word B. Look up the definition in an exhaustive concordance or an expository dictionary C. Read the definition of the word back into the text
•
•
Word Studies
Step 3
Establish the context within the broader context of Scripture Amplify or clarify the text
•
•
B.
•
•
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To determine the paragraph and chapter themes To determine the book title Summary statements for each paragraph, chapter, and the book From the key words, declarative statements instructions, exhortations, admonitions, and warnings Use five words or less Each chapter title should be distinctive from other chapters Descriptive of what is in the chapter Place each theme on the Themes and Titles Chart
Paragraph and Chapter Theme and Book Title
Step 5
A. Look up the word or A. phrase using: • a concordance • a topical Bible • • marginal references B. Read the cross reference C. Evaluate the message in the light of the cross reference •
•
•
Cross Referencing Scripture
Step 4
Inductive Study Methodology: Summary of the Process
Appendix
Chapter 4
Chapter 3
Chapter 2
Chapter 1
One Key Event:
Hearing Jesus’ Words:
Witnessing Jesus’ Actions:
Knowing Jesus’ Heart:
Jesus is Called:
Evidence of Jesus Christ in The Gospel According to Mark What This Means to Me:
307
Appendix
308
Chapter 8
Chapter 7
Chapter 6
Chapter 5
One Key Event:
Appendix
Hearing Jesus’ Words:
Witnessing Jesus’ Actions:
Knowing Jesus’ Heart:
Jesus is Called:
Evidence of Jesus Christ in The Gospel According to Mark What This Means to Me:
Chapter 12
Chapter 11
Chapter 10
Chapter 9
One Key Event:
Hearing Jesus’ Words:
Witnessing Jesus’ Actions:
Knowing Jesus’ Heart:
Jesus is Called:
Evidence of Jesus Christ in The Gospel According to Mark What This Means to Me:
309
Appendix
310
Chapter 16
Chapter 15
Chapter 14
Chapter 13
One Key Event:
Appendix
Hearing Jesus’ Words:
Witnessing Jesus’ Actions:
Knowing Jesus’ Heart:
Jesus is Called:
Evidence of Jesus Christ in The Gospel According to Mark What This Means to Me:
Appendix
Map of Israel Sidon Rehob Mt. Hermon Caesarea Philippi Dan
Tyre Scale (miles) 0 5 10
20
Achaib Hazor Accho Capernaum
Bethsaida Sea of Gerasenes
Mediterranean Sea
GALILEE Nazareth
Galilee
Nain Endor Megiddo Tasnach
Dor Caesarea
Kamaim Golan
Ain Gadara Irbid Ramoth-gilead
Scythopolis Hephos
DECAPOLIS Samaria Mt. Gilead
Joppa
Ono Ramah Lydda
Zorah Ashod Ashkalon Eglon
Shiloh
Bethel Michmash Jericho Gibeon Anathoth Jerusalem Bethlehem Hebron En-gedi
Gerar Rimmon Ziklag Jatir Moladah Beersheba IDUMEA
Salt Sea (Dead Sea)
PEREA Mt. Nebo Medeba Jabaz Ataroth
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Appendix
The Essene Community and John the Baptist they might stand against those whom they The Essene Community called the “children of darkness.” The Essenes were a Jewish sect who founded a type of monastic Members of the Essene community community in Israel somewhere around were dedicated students of the sacred 150 BC. The Romans destroyed the writings, and only accepted the Hebrew Essene community at Qumran near the Scriptures. They held to a strict Dead Sea between the years 66 to 73 AD. interpretation of the law, carefully The lifestyle of the Essenes has been followed Jewish rituals, and were known revealed from a variety of sources: for their practice of ceremonial washings. through the writings of the Roman The Essenes were historian Pliny the ascetics who shared Elder, two Greek worldly goods authors, the Jewish extensively among John the Baptist lived historians Philo and others within their own Josephus, and in the at the beginning of the community. The Dead Sea Scrolls Qumran Essenes lived first century and his found by Bedouin a celibate lifestyle, and shepherds in the “desert lifestyle” have their community took twentieth century. in orphans. led some to believe that Some of the Scrolls John the Baptist provide evidence to he was of the Essene John the Baptist the rules of conduct lived at the beginning community in Qumran. for the Essene of the first century and community. The his “desert lifestyle” Essenes were not have led some to mentioned in the Old believe that he was of the Essene Testament or in the New Testament. community in Qumran. John lived an The Essenes separated themselves ascetic lifestyle and preached a message of from worship in the temple in Jerusalem repentance calling his audiences to live a initially in protest of the Hasmoneans. life of righteousness. The Essenes The Essenes did not believe that the practiced ceremonial washings, and John Hasmoneans were qualified to be high called people to be baptized for the priests because they were not descendants forgiveness of sins and as a preparation for of the priest Zadok. Their writings the advent of the Messiah. John’s ministry mention the “Wicked Priest” who was was near the site of the Essene community perhaps the Maccabean high priest in 150 in Qumran. Luke 3:3 says that John came BC. The Essenes also quoted from the into the district around the Jordan River, teachings of the “Teacher of which feeds into the northern end of the Righteousness” who is believed to be their Dead Sea, just north of Qumran. Another founder. The Essenes were looking for association would be that the members of “the end” to be announced through a the Essene community were called prophet, and they were expecting two “children of light” and Jesus called John a Messiahs, one priestly and one lay. They “shining light” in John 5:35. were expecting these leaders to direct all of those who were “children of light,” that 313
Appendix I do not believe that John was a member of the Essene community for a number of reasons. John’s parents were elderly when he was born, and he could have been orphaned and gone to live with the Essenes, however since Zechariah served in the temple in Jerusalem and the Essenes took a strong stand against the priestly order in Jerusalem, I question whether the Essenes would have “adopted” someone with John’s background. One historian wrote that the Essenes wore white garments and the Bible says that John dressed in camel skins! The New Testament reveals that John the Baptist interacted with people from different sectors of those living in first century Israel. John spoke to the Pharisees, Sadducees, tax collectors, soldiers (Roman), and even king Herod Antipas. It would seem that John had the understanding that in the Messiah there would be no distinction between Jew and Gentile, slave or free, man or woman. Herod was the son of Herod the Great and his mother was Miriamme, a Jewish woman of the Hasmonean dynasty. Most of Israel hated Herod Antipas, but Scripture says that Herod enjoyed speaking to John. John confronted Herod concerning his sin, as if there was hope for Herod to be righteous if he were to follow God’s standard. The Essenes did not think that it was possible for Gentiles or those of mixed blood to enter into God’s kingdom.
John’s father, while he was serving in the temple. This was intended as a lifetime vow, demanding abstinence from alcohol, and the person was set apart by God for the work that He intended. Luke 1:60 records that as a child, John continued to grow and to become strong in the spirit. From John’s response to Jesus he showed that he had a humble spirit, as he said he was not fit to tie Jesus’ sandals. John was not concerned with being like others, evidenced by his apparel and his diet of locusts and honey. The ruling Herod Antipas met with John and was afraid of him because Herod considered John to be a righteous and holy man, and so initially Herod kept him safe according to Mark 6:20. Herod enjoyed listening to John even though what he heard from John caused Herod to be perplexed. John had disciples according to Matthew 9:14, showing that many wanted to learn from him, and John was worthy of following. After John’s death, the people thought that John had risen from the dead and was performing miraculous works, while it was really Jesus Himself. From this it would seem that there was a similarity between Jesus and John the Baptist.
John’s was the child of elderly parents Elizabeth and Zechariah, who were described as righteous in the sight of God, walking blamelessly in all the commandments and requirements of the Lord. John was prepared for ministry through his parent’s devotion to the Lord. John was obedient and compliant toward the Lord’s plan for his life.
John called people to repentance and to respond to the One coming after him. John called people to live a life of righteousness. John’s baptism was with water only, as a preparation for the baptism in the Spirit which was to follow. John, like the Old Testament prophets believed that a cleansing for the nation would come when God opened a fountain for the house of David according to Zechariah 13:1, and God would sprinkle His people clean and give them a new heart and a new spirit, (Ezekiel 36:25,26).
The angel Gabriel announced that John was to be a Nazarite to Zechariah,
John called people to share their food and clothing with those in need in
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Appendix Luke 3:11. This followed the Old Testament instruction that those who follow God must take care of those in need. Tax collectors and soldiers were challenged to change their lifestyle based on John’s teaching. It would seem that John did not limit his teaching to those of the nation of Israel, and he even confronted Herod Antipas about his unlawful marriage to Herod’s brother’s wife Herodias. John’s disciples were fasting along with the Pharisees, according to Mark 2:18, indicating that John felt that fasting was a way mankind could show their devotion to God. John’s Preparation for Ministry John’s father Zechariah the priest, served in the temple in Jerusalem. His mother came from the line of Aaron the priest. Zechariah was told that his son would be filled with the Holy Spirit while still in his mother’s womb and that John would turn back many of the sons of Israel to the Lord their God. John was to serve as a forerunner, a prophet, before the Messiah in the spirit and power of Elijah. Zechariah was struck mute by the angel Gabriel because he did not believe God’s message about his child’s birth. The community recognized that the Lord was with him when his son was born and Zechariah’ voice returned when he announced (in writing) that the child’s name would be John. Zechariah’ words of prophecy were recorded as he proclaimed the coming of the Messiah as well as his son’s role as the prophet of the Most High. Zechariah prophesied that John would give to God’s people the knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of their sins, Luke 1:77 After Jesus’ mother “was with child” she went to visit Elizabeth and Zechariah, John’s parents. Mary’s greeting to Elizabeth caused John to leap within his mother’s womb and Elizabeth
was filled with the Holy Spirit, according to Luke 1:41,42. The angel Gabriel named John from a Hebrew word that meant “favored by Jehovah.” Elizabeth and Zechariah were righteous people and certainly would have shared with their son God’s call upon his life. John the Baptist began to minister in the fifteenth year of Tiberius, Luke 3:13, which would have been in 29AD. John preached in the wilderness of Judea as the voice of one crying in the wilderness, to make ready the way of the Lord, to make His paths straight, as prophesied in Isaiah 40:3. People from Jerusalem were going out to him, and all of Judea, and all the district around the Jordan. John was baptizing these people as they confessed their sins. John announced that Jesus came to earth as the Son of God. John baptized Jesus, witnessed the announcement from heaven of God voicing His pleasure with His beloved Son (Mark 1:11). John called Jesus the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world in John 1:29 When priests (from the Pharisees) came to John and asked him who he was, John said he was not the Christ in John 1:20. These priests also asked if John was “the Prophet and he answered, ‘No,’” John 1:21. After John had been taken into custody, Jesus came into Galilee preaching the gospel of God (Mark 1:14). John’s question to Jesus that was asked through his disciples was recorded in Luke 7:20, “Are You the expected One or do we look for someone else?” Jesus answered by quoting of His ministry that was prophesied in Isaiah 61:1. Jesus then told His audience that John was more than a prophet, he was also the fulfillment of Malachi 3:1, one coming as God’s messenger before the Messiah. 315
Appendix John was also considered a prophet by the people according to Mark 11:32, he was one who spoke forth God’s truth and God’s message to the people. As John spoke the truth, some believed and some became angry with him, as he continually preached a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins (Mark 1:4).
concerning Jesus, but was only acquainted with the baptism of John. The disciples Priscilla and Aquila heard Apollos and then shared about “the way of God more accurately,” in Acts 18:26. Acts 19:3,4 proves that there were some who followed Christ that had been baptized with John’s “baptism of repentance.”
John dies at the request of the daughter of Herodias, because he had spoken out against her mother’s immorality through her relationship with Heroh.
The biblical record of the life of John the Baptist demonstrates that he led a life of obedience to God. John fulfilled the prophecy of the Hebrew Scriptures as he lived out his commitment and faithfulness to the Lord God.
John the Baptist’s ministry impacted people in other places beyond the boundaries of Israel. In Acts 18:24 through Acts 19:5 Luke recorded that while in Ephesus, Apollos had been speaking and teaching accurately
Prepared for the class: Introduction to New Testament I, Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary, 2002 by Jan Wells.
John came baptizing
316
Appendix
Marriage, Adultery, and Divorce In the New Testament and Extra-biblical Writings Jesus answered the Pharisees and His disciples concerning their questions about marriage, divorce, and adultery. Lesson 15 studied Mark 10:2-8, Matthew 19:1-12, and Luke 16:18. Look at these Scriptures as well as some references from extra-biblical writings concerning marriage, adultery, divorce, and remarriage. You might use four different colored pencils and underline or circle what is taught to help you see these themes. Marriage:
Adultery:
Divorce:
Remarriage:
Mark 10:2-12, ISV 2 Some Pharisees came to test him. They asked, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?” 3 He answered them, “What did Moses command you?” 4 They said, “Moses allowed a man to write a certificate of divorce and to divorce her.” 5 But Jesus said to them, “It was because of your hardness of heart that he wrote this command for you. 6But from the beginning of creation, ‘God made them male and female.’ 7 ‘That is why a man will leave his father and mother and be united with his wife, 8and the two will become one flesh.’ So they are no longer two, but one flesh. 9Therefore, what God has joined together, man must never separate.” 10 Back in the house, the disciples asked him about this again. 11So he said to them, “Whoever divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery against her. 12And if a woman divorces her husband and marries another man, she commits adultery.” Matthew 19:1-12, ISV 1 When Jesus had finished saying these things, he left Galilee and went to the territory of Judea on the other side of the Jordan. 2Large crowds followed him, and he healed them there. 3 Some Pharisees came to him in order to test him. They asked, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any reason?” 4 He answered them, “Haven't you read that the one who made them at the beginning ‘made them male and female’ 5and said, ‘That is why a man will leave his father and mother and be united with his wife, and the two will become one flesh’? 6So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, man must never separate.” 7 They asked him, “Why, then, did Moses order us ‘to give a certificate of divorce and divorce her’?” 8 He said to them, “It was because of your hardness of heart that Moses allowed you to divorce your wives. But from the beginning it was not this way. 9 I tell you that whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery.” 10 His disciples said to him, “If that is the relationship of a man with his wife, it's not worth getting married!” 11 But he said to them, “Not everyone can accept this saying, except those to whom celibacy has been granted. 12For some men are celibate from birth, while others are celibate because they have been made that way by others. Still others are celibate because they have made themselves that way for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. Let anyone accept this who can.” Luke 16:18, ISV 18 Any man who divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery, and the man who marries a woman divorced from her husband commits adultery.” 317
Appendix Matthew 5:27-32, ISV 27 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You must not commit adultery.’ 28But I say to you, anyone who stares at a woman with lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. 29So if your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one of your members than to have your whole body thrown into hell. 30And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away from you. It is better for you to lose one of your members than to have your whole body go into hell.”31“It was also said, ‘Whoever divorces his wife must give her a written notice of divorce.’ 32But I say to you, any man who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, causes her to commit adultery, and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery.” Romans 7:1-3, ISV 1 Don't you realize, brothers—for I am speaking to people who know the law—that the law can press its claims over a person only as long as he is alive? 2For a married woman is bound by the law to her husband while he is living, but if her husband dies, she is released from the law concerning her husband. 3So while her husband is living, she will be called an adulterer even if she lives with another man. But if her husband dies, she is free from this law, so that she is not an adulterer if she marries another man. 1 Corinthians 7:1-17, ISV 1 Now concerning the things you wrote about: It's good for a man not to touch a woman. 2But because sexual immorality is so rampant, every man should have his own wife, and every woman should have her own husband. 3 A husband should fulfill his obligation to his wife, and a wife should do the same for her husband. 4A wife does not have authority over her own body, but her husband does. In the same way, a husband doesn't have authority over his own body, but his wife does. 5Do not withhold yourselves from each other unless you agree to do so for a set time in order to devote yourselves to prayer. Then you should come together again so that Satan does not tempt you through your lack of self-control. 6But I say this as a concession, not as a command. 7 I would like everyone to be like me. However, each person has a special gift from God, one this and another that. 8 I say to those who are unmarried, especially to widows: It is good for them to remain like me. 9However, if they cannot control themselves, they should get married, for it is better to marry than to burn with passion. 10To married people I give this command (not really I, but the Lord): A wife must not leave her husband. 11But if she does leave him, she must remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband. Likewise, a husband must not abandon his wife. 12 I (not the Lord) say to the rest of you: If a brother has a wife who is an unbeliever and she is willing to live with him, he must not abandon her. 13 And if a woman has a husband who is an unbeliever and he is willing to live with her, she must not abandon him. 14For the unbelieving husband has been sanctified because of his wife, and the unbelieving wife has been sanctified because of her husband. Otherwise, your children would be unclean, but now they are holy. 15But if the unbelieving partner leaves, let him go. In such cases the brother or sister is not bound; God has called you to live in peace. 16Wife, how do you know whether you will save your husband? Husband, how do you know whether you will save your wife? 17 Nevertheless, everyone should live the life that the Lord gave him and to which God called him. This is my rule in all the churches.
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Appendix You might examine these word studies as well as the ones in Lesson 15 for help. Strong’s # and Transliteration:
Definition from Strong’s Concordance, unless written in italics:
Use of the word in other Scriptures:
3431 moicheuo moicheuseis Matthew 5:27
Commit adultery, the Old Testament definition: intercourse between a man and a woman who is married or betrothed to another Israelite.82 Lust, to set the heart upon, long for, rightfully or otherwise, covet, desire
Mark 10:19
Cause to sin, to entrap, trip up, stumble, or entice to sin, apostasy, or displeasure
Romans 14:21
1937 epithumeo epithumesai Matthew 5:28 4624 skandalizo skandalizei Matthew 5:29
Romans 7:7
We are given an example of a time when Hebrew leaders quoted the Law in John 8:111. What did they say was commanded in the Law? How did Jesus respond and that was revealed about Jesus in this passage? John 8:1-11, ISV 1 Jesus, however, went to the Mount of Olives. 2At daybreak he appeared again in the temple, and all the people came to him. So he sat down and began to teach them. 3But the scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery. After setting her before them, 4they said to him, “Teacher, this woman has been caught in the very act of adultery. 5Now in the law, Moses commanded us to stone such women to death. What do you say?” 6They said this to test him, so that they might have a charge against him. But Jesus bent down and began to write on the ground with his finger. 7 When they persisted in questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “Let the person among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” 8Then he bent down again and continued writing on the ground. 9When they heard this, they went away one by one, beginning with the oldest, and he was left alone with the woman standing there. 10Then Jesus stood up and said to her, “Woman, where are your accusers? Hasn't anyone condemned you?” 9 11 She said, “No one, sir.” Then Jesus said, “I don't condemn you, either. Go home, and from now on do not sin any more.” Here is some information gathered from a variety of sources, concerning the culture of the Israelites as well as the Greeks at the time of Jesus’ teaching. When Jesus preached the Sermon on the Mount, His audience would have been familiar with the writing of the Hebrew rabbis. One had written, “Do not think that he is an adulterer who, by his sinful act, has sinned; he also is an adulterer who lusts with his eyes,” and another wrote, “He who excites evil thoughts cannot approach God.”83 82 83
Dockery and Garland, Ibid., p. 53. Gerald Friedlander, The Jewish Sources of the Sermon on the Mount, New York, KTAV Publishing House, Inc., 1969, p. 51. 319
Appendix In the Greek language, the words “to lust” or “to commit adultery” were understood to mean that a man “lusts her” or “adulterates her.” In these cases, the woman became the object of a man’s desire. In this the woman was dehumanized and exploited. The Greek word used for woman in Matthew 5:28 could be used either of a married or an unmarried woman. However, when the word was used in connection with adultery in the Israelite culture it always referred to a married woman. The interpretation of this passage had a powerful impact on the early church. Origen, one of the early church fathers who lived from 195 to 254, took the language of this passage literally rather than figuratively. Origen castrated himself, so that he would not be tempted by a woman.84 Some early church leaders counseled men to avoid women, and commanded that women cover up in case men could not avoid them. Tertullian wrote in the second century that a woman’s natural beauty should be “obliterated by concealment and neglect, since it is dangerous to those who look at it.”85 Some assumed that a man’s lust was unavoidable and the woman was responsible for a man’s lust. In the Jewish culture at the time of Christ, divorce was “the right of the man (not the woman).” A man could repudiate his wife as “a simple unilateral declaration against which there was no appeal.”86 The two Hebrew rabbinic schools, the Shammai and the Hillel, had different interpretations concerning divorce.87 Another factor to keep in mind concerns the rule of the Roman Empire during the first century. Roman law prohibited the Jewish death penalty being enforced for those caught in adultery. The Rabbinic School Shammai: the most conservative They stood on the original plan for marriage from Genesis 2:24. No man could divorce his wife except on account of adultery. If a wife committed adultery, it was evident that they were no longer “one flesh,” the husband had to give her a bill of divorce.
The Rabbinic School Hillel: This school granted that the design for marriage was that husband and wife be “one flesh,” but if the husband no longer cared for his wife, the original plan was not being carried out and it would be better for them to separate. No court decision was necessary; divorce could be the husband’s decision.
1 John 3:8-10, ISV “The person who practices sin belongs to the evil one, because the Devil has been sinning since the beginning. The reason that the Son of God was revealed was to destroy the works of the Devil. No one who has been born from God practices sin, because God’s seed remains in him. He is not able to go on sinning, because he has been born from God. This is how God’s children and the Devil’s children are distinguished. No person who fails to practice righteousness and to love his brother is from God…”
84
Carson, Ibid., p. 44. Dockery and Garland, Ibid. p. 54. 86 France, Ibid., p. 280. 87 Friedlander, Ibid., p. xx. 320 85
Appendix
Marriage Principles From Ephesians 5:25-33 Husbands love your wives, Ephesians 5:25 …as Christ loved the church and gave Himself for it. Christ died for the church. Husbands should be willing to die for their wife, to meet her needs, and to live for her daily. Husbands seek to… Ephesians 5:27 Keep your wife holy, to sanctify her Keep her spiritually clean by the word of God, as you read it together Make you and your wife without blemish, which means to be perfect in character. Husbands love your wives as you love and look after your own body. Ephesians 5:28 If you love your wife and treat her right, she will love you and treat you right. If you hurt and criticize your wife, she will hurt you. Therefore if you love your wife, you are loving yourself. Husbands nourish and cherish your wife and meet her needs as much as Christ meets the church’s needs. Ephesians 5:29 Nourish: to rear up to maturity Cherish: to warm, to brood, to foster We must work together as bones in a body or as a team. Ephesians 5:30 We are members of His body, of His flesh, and of His bones. Leave your Father and Mother when you get married. Ephesians 5:31 When you marry, you are no longer under the authority of your parents. Do not let parents interfere. Do not live with your parents on a long-term basis. Husbands cleave to your wife as one flesh. Ephesians 5:31 Achieve oneness spiritually, mentally, emotionally, and physically. Husbands, love your wife as yourself, wife reverence (respect) your husband. Ephesians 5:33
What Does it Mean to be Subject to? • The church is told to “be subject to one another in the fear of Christ. Wives, to your own husbands, as to the Lord,” Ephesians 5:21,22. The phrase “be subject to” is used as a verb and this is a voluntary action. That means it is something we ourselves do. Submission is not something we make someone else do. • Submission is a choice we make. It is something each one of us must decide to do, and this decision happens first in the heart. If we do not decide in our hearts that we are going to willingly submit to whomever it is we need to be submitted to, then we are not truly submitting. • Too often people confuse “submit” and “obey.” These are not the same thing. The Bible gives commands about obeying other people only in regard to children and slaves, and in the context of the local church. Children obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right, Ephesians 6:1. Bondservants, be obedient to those who are your masters according to the flesh, Ephesians 6:5. Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account, Hebrews 13:17. Since a wife is neither her husband’s child nor his servant, and the local church is not one of the parties, the word “obey” has no application to the relationship between a husband and a wife. • Submission means to “submit yourself.” In light of that, when a husband demands submission from his wife, it is no longer true submission. His demands can become intimidating and oppressive, which breeds resentment. When a husband is more interested in his wife’s submission to him that he is in his own submission to God, then submission becomes a tool to hurt and destroy. 321
Appendix How Does God Feel? Because God hates divorce, we should hate divorce and reject it as a solution to the trials we face in marriage. This is NOT about the person whose spouse is guilty of persistent, unrepentant adultery. Jesus addressed that situation in Matthew 5:31,32. This is NOT about the person who because of his or her commitment to Christ has been abandoned by an unbelieving spouse. Paul addressed that situation in 1 Corinthians 7. If God hates divorce, we should hate it. If God says “no,” we should say “no” to divorce. Since God says, “With Me all things are possible, I can heal your marriage if you are willing to live by My principles, invest the necessary effort, and trust in Me,” then we should say, “Yes, Lord, I believe. Help my unbelief.”
Why God Hates Divorce Because divorce violates His perfect plan for His highest creation. God’s blueprint for marriage: One man and one woman united permanently in a relationship of commitment, companionship, fellowship, service, and love. Divorce was never in the original blueprint for the home. Not only is that implied in the Genesis account, it is clearly stated by Jesus. He said in Matthew 19:8 “Moses permitted you to divorce your wives because your hearts were hard. But it was not this way from the beginning.” Because divorce involves the breaking of a covenant. There was a spiritual covenant between God and His people, and that covenant served as the symbol for the marriage covenant. All marriages whether civil or religious include the recitation of some kind of vows; statements and promises of mutual commitment before God and man. Because He loves people and doesn’t want them to suffer the pain that divorce inevitably produces. Even under the best of circumstances, it causes great pain. When a husband and wife get married, they become one flesh. That is the essence of marriage. When a husband and wife get divorced, that one flesh is torn apart. There is no painless way to tear one’s flesh apart. God knows that, and that is why He hates divorce. Because He loves children, and children are devastated by divorce. Children of divorce hurt when they are small, they hurt as adolescents and they hurt as adults.
Divorce is Permitted When… In Matthew 19:3-9 Christ teaches clearly that divorce is an accommodation to man’s sin that violates God’s original purpose for the intimate unity and permanence of the marriage bond (Genesis 2:24). Christ taught that God’s law allowed divorce only because of “hardness of heart,” Matthew 19:8. Legal divorce was a concession for the faithful partner due to the sexual sin or abandonment by the sinning partner, so that the faithful partner was no longer bound to the marriage. Although sexual sin (adultery) literally refers to physical sins, adultery is actually a matter of the heart. The physical sin is usually a sign of the unfaithful condition of the heart. (Matthew 5:32, 19:9; 1 Corinthians 7:12-15) Although Jesus did say that divorce is permitted in some situations, He did not require it. On the contrary, He insisted that divorce disrupts God’s plan for marriage and left the way open for repentance and forgiveness, 1 Corinthians 7:10,11. His primary point in this discourse is to correct the Jews’ idea that they could divorce one another “for any cause at all,” Matthew 19:3, and to show them the gravity of pursuing a sinful divorce. Therefore, the believer should never consider divorce except in specific circumstances and even in those circumstances it should only be pursued reluctantly because there is no other recourse.
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Appendix
“The Shema” When the Hebrew people assembled together for worship in their neighborhood synagogues, they would pray specific passages of Scripture that they called “Shema,” which was the Hebrew word for hear. The recitation of these Scriptures affirmed their faith in God, and in fact pious Jews said these prayers several times a day. The “Shema” was spoken to declare commitment to God and in their worship services it was spoken in unison as an expression of unity with others. In the first century A.D. after Christ’s ascension to heaven, the Christian church continued with the Old Testament tradition of praying “Shema,” and also included verses from the writings of Paul and James to help them acknowledge their faith in God and in their Savior, Jesus Christ. The early church was made up of Jews and Gentiles, and women as well as men worshiped together. Think of the significance of these words as if you were a Gentile woman living long ago, who had just received God's grace and salvation.
Old Testament Scriptures Deuteronomy 6:4-9 4 "Hear, 0 Israel! The LORD is our God, the LORD is one! 5 "And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. 6 "And these words, which I am commanding you today, shall be on your heart; 7 and you shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up. 8 "And you shall bind them as a sign on your hand and they shall be as frontals on your forehead. 9 "And you shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.
Deuteronomy 11:13-21 13 "And it shall come about, if you listen obediently to my commandments which I am commanding you today, to love the LORD your God and to serve Him with all your heart and all your soul, 14 that He will give the rain for your land in its season, the early and late rain, that you may gather in your grain and your new wine and your oil. 15 "And He will give grass in your fields for your cattle, and you shall eat and be satisfied. 16 "Beware, lest your hearts be deceived and you turn away and serve other gods and worship them. 17 "Or the anger of the LORD will be kindled against you, and He will shut up the heavens so that there will be no rain and the ground will not yield its fruit; and you will perish quickly from the good land which the LORD is giving you. 18 You shall therefore impress these words of mine on your heart and on your soul; and you shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontals on your forehead. 19 "And you shall teach them to your sons, talking of them when you sit in your house and when you walk along the road and when you lie down and when you rise up. 20 "And you shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates, 21 so that your days and the days of your sons may be multiplied on the land which the LORD swore to your fathers to give them, as long as the heavens {remain} above the earth.
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Numbers 15:37-41 37 The LORD also spoke to Moses, saying, 38 "Speak to the sons of Israel, and tell them that they shall make for themselves tassels on the corners of their garments throughout their generations, and that they shall put on the tassel of each corner a cord of blue. 39 "And it shall be a tassel for you to look at and remember all the commandments of the LORD, so as to do them and not follow after your own heart and your own eyes, after which you played the harlot, 40 in order that you may remember to do all My commandments, and be holy to your God. 41 "I am the LORD your God who brought you out from the land of Egypt to be your God; I am the LORD your God."
New Testament Scriptures Romans 3:30 since indeed God who will justify the circumcised by faith and the uncircumcised through faith is one.
Galatians 3:20 Now a mediator is not for one {party only) whereas God is {only} one. James 2:19 You believe that God is one. You do well; the demons also believe, and shudder. 1 Corinthians 8:6 yet for us there is {but} one God, the Father, from whom are all things, and we {exist} for Him; and one Lord, Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we {exist} through Him.
Philippians 2:5-11 In God's own form existed He, and shared with God equality Deemed nothing needed grasping. Instead, poured out in emptiness, a servant's form did He possess, A mortal man becoming. In human He chose to be, and lived in all humility, Death on a cross obeying. Now lifted up by God to heaven, a name above all others given, This matchless name possessing. And so, when Jesus' name is called, the knees of everyone will fall, where 'er they are residing. Then every tongue in one accord, will say that Jesus Christ is Lord, while God the Father praising, ISV®
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Chapter 2
Those Who Supported Jesus: Chapter 1
The Response of Jesus’ Response to Jesus’ Supporters: His Supporter/s:
325
Those Who Were in Opposition:
The Opposition’s Issues or Questions:
People’s Responses to Jesus Christ in The Gospel According to Mark Jesus’ Response to the Opposition:
Appendix
Chapter 4
Those Who Supported Jesus: Chapter 3
Appendix
The Response of Jesus’ Response to Jesus’ Supporters: His Supporter/s:
326
Those Who Were in Opposition:
The Opposition’s Issues or Questions:
People’s Responses to Jesus Christ in The Gospel According to Mark Jesus’ Response to the Opposition:
Chapter 6
Those Who Supported Jesus: Chapter 5
The Response of Jesus’ Response to Jesus’ Supporters: His Supporter/s:
327
Those Who Were in Opposition:
The Opposition’s Issues or Questions:
People’s Responses to Jesus Christ in The Gospel According to Mark Jesus’ Response to the Opposition:
Appendix
Chapter 8
Those Who Supported Jesus: Chapter 7
Appendix
The Response of Jesus’ Response to Jesus’ Supporters: His Supporter/s:
328
Those Who Were in Opposition:
The Opposition’s Issues or Questions:
People’s Responses to Jesus Christ in The Gospel According to Mark Jesus’ Response to the Opposition:
Chapter 10
Those Who Supported Jesus: Chapter 9
The Response of Jesus’ Response to Jesus’ Supporters: His Supporter/s:
329
Those Who Were in Opposition:
The Opposition’s Issues or Questions:
People’s Responses to Jesus Christ in The Gospel According to Mark Jesus’ Response to the Opposition:
Appendix
Chapter 12
Those Who Supported Jesus: Chapter 11
Appendix
The Response of Jesus’ Response to Jesus’ Supporters: His Supporter/s:
330
Those Who Were in Opposition:
The Opposition’s Issues or Questions:
People’s Responses to Jesus Christ in The Gospel According to Mark Jesus’ Response to the Opposition:
Chapter 14
Those Who Supported Jesus: Chapter 13
The Response of Jesus’ Response to Jesus’ Supporters: His Supporter/s:
331
Those Who Were in Opposition:
The Opposition’s Issues or Questions:
People’s Responses to Jesus Christ in The Gospel According to Mark Jesus’ Response to the Opposition:
Appendix
Chapter 16
Those Who Supported Jesus: Chapter 15
Appendix
The Response of Jesus’ Response to Jesus’ Supporters: His Supporter/s:
332
Those Who Were in Opposition:
The Opposition’s Issues or Questions:
People’s Responses to Jesus Christ in The Gospel According to Mark Jesus’ Response to the Opposition:
Appendix
Word Study Index Hebrew Words F Fasting 6685
56
G Good news 1319
16
H Holy 6942
61
L Lord 113 Lord 136 LORD 3068
179 179 178
M Messiah 4899
133
W Wonderful 6381 Worship 7812
173 122
Greek Words A Abba 5 Abomination 946 Adulterous 3426 Anger 3709 Anoint 218 Apostle 652 Arguing 1260 Ashamed 1870 At once 2117 Authority 1849
201 189 134 66 220 115 53 134 33 42,108
B Baptism 908 Baptizing 907 Beelzebul 954 Believe 4100 Believing 4100 Blasphemies 988 Blaspheming 988 Blessed 2127 Blessed One 2128
29 29 71 143 36 74 53 115,130,164 204
C Cause to sin 4624 Certificate of divorce 647 Changed 3339
343 151 140
Chosen 1586 Christ 5547 Clean 2511 Command 3726 Commit adultery 3431 Commits adultery 3429 Compassion 1656 Compassion 4698 Condemn 2632 Confessed 1843 Confession 3670 Covenant 1242 Cowards 1169 Crucify 4717 Cursed 2672
190 28,133 47 98 343 151 61 47 158 29 130 196 92 209 164
D Deceive 4105 Deeply hurt 4818 Deeply grieved 4036 Deeply saddened 4036 Demon 1140 Denarii 1220 Deny 533 Desolation 2050 Destroy 622 Disciple 3101 Distressed 1568 Divine curse 332 Divorces 630 Doubt 1252
186 66 200 112 42 196 133 189 42 39 200 204 151 164
E Elders 4245 Elect 1588
133 190
F False christs 5580 False prophets 5578 Fast 3522 Fellow worker 4904 Festival of Unleavened Bread 106 Flesh 4561 Followed 190 Forgiven 863 Forgiveness 859 Forgive 863 Forsaken 1459
190 190 56 20 196 201 39 53 29 164 212
333
Appendix G Glorify 1392 Glory 1391 God 2316 Golgotha 1115 Good 18 Gospel 2098
53 134 28 212 155 16
H Hardness 4457 Hardness of heart 4641 Helper 5257 Herodians 2265 High priest 749 Holy 40 Holy One 40 Hosanna 5614 Hypocrisy 5272 Hypocrites 5273
66 151 20 66 60 29 42 163 175 121
I Immediately 2112 Inherit 2816 Insurrection 4714 J Jesus 2424
39 155 209 28
K King 935 Kingdom 932
209 36
L Legion 3003 Leprosy 3014 Life 2222 Life 5590 Lord 2962 Love 25 Lust 1937
98 47 155 134 61 152 343
M Marvelous 2298 Merciful 1653 Messenger 32 Ministering 1247 Miracle 1411 Mixed with myrrh 4669 Moneychangers 2855
173 98 29 34 108 212 164
N Nard 3487 Nations 1484
196 164
334
O Offended 4624 Otherwise 3379 Overcome with fear 5399 & 5401
108 83 92
P Parables 3850 71 Passover 3957 195 Peace 1514 146 Persecutions 1375 155 Pharisees 5330 56 Possessed by demons 1139 45 Prayer 4335 164 Prayer 4336 164 Presence 4286 60 Priests 2409 60 Proclaiming 2784 29 Prophet 4396 28,108,168 Q Question 3056
168
R Rabbi 4461 Rebuked 2008 Repent 3340 Repentance 3341 Restore 600
140 42 36 29 140
S Sabbath 4521 Salt 217 Satan 4567 Save 4982 Scribes 1122 Secret 3466 Service of worship 2999 Sexual immorality 4202 Shelters 4633 Sighed deeply 389 Sign 4592 Sincere 227 Sinful 268 Sins 266 Spirit 4151 Stealth 1388 Suffer 3958 Suffering 2347 Synagogue 4864 Synagogue leader 752
60 146 33 134 39 83 122 151 140 130 130 175 134 29 29 196 140 190 39 101
Appendix T Take heed 991 Teacher 1320 Teaching 1322 Temple 3485 Temptation 3986 Tempted 3985 Tested 3985 Thanks 2168 Troubled 85 Truly 281 Turn against 4624 U Unbelief 570 Unclean 169
186 101 42 204 201 33 130 130 200 74 200 108,143 42
W Wait 3306 Watch out 69 (Keep on) watching 1127 Welcomes 1209 Whip 3146 Will 2307 Wisdom 4678 Word 3056 Worship 4352 Worship 4576
200 190 190 146 158 74 108 83 122 121
Y Yeast 2217
130
335
Appendix
Bibliography Arndt, William F. and F. Wilbur Gingrich, A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament, Chicago, The University of Chicago Press, 1979. Barnhart, Clarence and Robert Barnhart, editors. World Book Dictionary, Vol. 2. Chicago, World Book, Inc., 1985. Bettenson, Henry. The Early Christian Fathers. Oxford, Oxford University Press, 1956. Black, David Alan. Why Four Gospels? Grand Rapids, Kregel Publications, 2001. Bromiley, Geoffrey W. Theological Dictionary of the New Testament. Grand Rapids, Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1990. Buksbazen, Victor. The Gospel in the Feasts of Israel. W. Collingswood, NJ, The Friends of Israel, 1978. Butler, Trent C., Editor. Holman Bible Dictionary. Nashville, Holman Bible Publishers, 1991. Carson, D.A. The Sermon on the Mount. Grand Rapids, Baker Book House Co, 1982. Carson, D.A., Douglas J. Moo, and Leon Morris. An Introduction to the New Testament. Grand Rapids, ZondervanPublishingHouse, 1992. Cole, R. Alan. The Gospel According to Mark. Grand Rapids, Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co, 1987. Cranfield, C.E.B. The Gospel According to Saint Mark. Cambridge, The University Press, 1959. Dockery, David S. and David E. Garland. Seeking the Kingdom. Wheaton, Harold Shaw Publishers, 1992. Dockery, David S., Kenneth A. Mathews, Robert B. Sloan, Foundations for Biblical Interpretation, Nashville, Broadman & Holman Publishers, 1994. Ferguson, Everett. Backgrounds of Early Christianity. Grand Rapids, Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1993. Foster, Richard. Celebration of Discipline. HarperSanFrancisco, 1998. France, R.T. Matthew. Leicester, England, Inter-Varsity Press, 1989. Friedlander, Gerald. The Jewish Sources of the Sermon on the Mount. New York, KTAV Publishing House, Inc., 1969. Gaebelein, Frank E., Editor. The Expositor’s Bible Commentary, Volume 8. Grand Rapids, ZondervanPublishingHouse, 1984. Guthrie, Donald. New Testament Introduction. Leicester, APOLLOS, (Downers Grove, InterVarsity Press), 1990. Lane, William L. The Gospel According to Mark. Grand Rapids, Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1974. McArthur, Harvey K. and Robert M. Johnston. They Also Taught in Parables. Grand Rapids, Academie Books, 1990. Melick, Richard. New Testament I Class Notes. Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary, Fall, 2002. Morgan, G. Campbell. The Gospel According to Mark. New York, Fleming H. Revell Company, 1927. Pentecost, J. Dwight. The Parables of Jesus. Grand Rapids, Zondervan Publishing House, 1982.
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Appendix Robertson. A.T. Word Pictures in the New Testament, Volume I. Nashville, Broadman Press, 1930. Sider, Ronald J., Philip N. Olson, and Heidi R. Unruh. Churches That Make a Difference. Grand Rapids, Baker Books, 2002. Strong, James. Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible. Gordonsville, TN, Dugan Publishers, Inc., 1894. The World Book Dictionary. Chicago, Doubleday & Co., Inc., 1985. Vincent, M.R. Word Studies in the New Testament. Florida, Mac Donald Publishing Co, 1988. Walvoord, John F. and Roy B. Zuck. The Bible Knowledge Commentary. Victor Books, 1983. Willard, Dallas. The Spirit of the Disciplines. HarperSanFrancisco, 1990. Wuest, Kenneth S. Wuest’s Word Studies. Grand Rapids, Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1973. Zodhiates, Spiros. The Complete Word Study New Testament. Chattanooga, AMG Publishers, 1991. Zodhiates, Spiros. The Complete Word Study Old Testament. Chattanooga, AMG Publishers, 1994. Zodhiates, Spiros. The Hebrew-Greek Key Study Bible. Chattanooga, AMG Publishers, 1990.
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Sunergos Bible Studies Name of Study: Book Studies: Joshua and the Call to Live Victoriously by Faith The Book of Ruth The Life of David The Book of Nehemiah The Book of Esther Jonah The Sermon on the Mount The Gospel According to Mark The Epistle to the Romans Galatians and the Fruit of the Spirit Ephesians Philippians and the Call to Biblical Fellowship Colossians Titus and the Call to Biblical Discipleship Philemon (Learn the Inductive Bible Study methodology with this short study) James Topical Studies: Old Testament Worship for Followers of Christ Prayers of the Bible Women of the Word Discipleship Series Studies:
Number of Lessons: 10 4 12 8 5 10 14 22 23 10 12 12 9 9 2 11 8 12 12
The format of the Discipleship Series is different, as each lesson is like one day’s work in the other studies.
The Call to Biblical Character – An In-depth Look at the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:10-12) The Call to Bear Fruit by the Power of the Spirit – An In-depth Look at Galatians 5:22, 23 The Call to Live Victoriously by Faith – An In-depth Look at Ephesians 6:10-20 The Call to Biblical Fellowship – An In-depth Look at the “One Another” Commands A Woman’s Call to Biblical Discipleship – An In-depth Look at Titus 2:3-5
11 12 10 12 16
All of these lessons are in-depth inductive Bible studies that encourage the students to examine Scripture through observation before seeking to interpret, while looking for eternal principles in the word that can be applied to their own life. While the studies encourage critical thinking, they also provide some “commentary” from a variety of conservative sources. The studies include instruction for studying inductively, and the work for each lesson has been divided into five days. All studies have been formatted with two options for completing the lessons. The student who has less time for study can complete the opening observation questions which cover the portion of Scripture or theme for the day, and then the student can move to the last question/s which might incorporate other Scriptures and as well as several application questions. The other option is for the student to complete the entire lesson for each day and that would generally take between 30 minutes to one hour. This option includes word studies and an in-depth look at the passage or theme for the day. Leader’s Guides are available for each study to provide resources for those interested in leading a study. Check the Sunergos Bible Studies’ website www.sunergosbible.org for availability, costs, and ordering options. New studies, leader’s guides, and other resources are available from the website.
Book Summary This in-depth inductive Bible study examines Mark’s record of events in Christ’s life and ministry and considers the same events as presented in the other Gospels. The twenty-two-week study looks for eternal principles to lead Christ’s followers to a life of obedience and commitment. It includes many questions to bring personal application from Christ’s teaching through Mark’s historical and biographical narrative. The lessons also offer reflections in Scripture in the study of the classical spiritual disciplines to challenge students to grow in their faith as mature disciples of Christ. The study provides a number of options for completing the lessons. When a group is meeting weekly, each student will benefit from the review discussion suggested in the accompanying leader’s guide.
Author Profile JAN WELLS has been married forty years, is the mother of two grown children, and a grandmother. A former English and history teacher, Jan has written twenty in-depth, inductive studies reflecting her passion for the Lord and His word. Incorporated in Jan’s writing are a commitment to the importance of the ministry of discipleship within the body of Christ and a sensitivity to the differences in the way people think and learn. Jan, the creator of Sunergos Bible Studies, has taught the Bible to adults for over twenty years in an interdenominational ministry. The author has an M.A. in Christian Ministry from Simpson University (C&MA) and is pursuing an M.Div. from Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary (SBC). Sunergos Bible Studies have been used in a number of churches throughout the country and internationally, and because of their thoroughness, they have become valuable resources for many pastors and Bible teachers.
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