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.
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Begin by reading Mark 10:32-52 and then answer these observation questions. Where were Jesus and the disciples according to Mark 10:32?
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What did Mark say about the emotional response of the disciples and the others who were following at the beginning of today’s passage?
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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.
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After James and John asked to sit with Jesus in His glory, what did Jesus promise them according to Mark 10:39,40?
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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?
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What did Jesus say about Himself in Mark 10:45?
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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 mastigos
